Aug'98 - The North American Travel Journalists Association has picked Vancouver as the best international destination for 1998. More than 200 writers, broadcasters & photographers who belong to the association voted to put Vancouver on the top of their list. "This distinction for Vancouver is well-deserved yet somewhat of a surprise given the city was named over places like London and Paris," said association president Dan Schlossberg. Schlossberg said Vancouver's mix of water and mountain scenery, hospitality, hotels and attractions, as well as its proximity to other destinations such as Whistler, Victoria & Seattle, are reasons for its appeal. Tourism Vancouver chairman Graeme Stamp said the news is an exciting reflection of Vancouver's success on the international holiday and business travel scene. "Varied qualities such as the city's cultural diversity, accessibility, facilities, events, attractions and natural settings contributed to this recognition," Stamp said.