South Australia�s Barossa has made the New York Times� list of 53 �must-see� destinations for 2008.

The Barossa was the only Australian destination on the acclaimed list and was chosen as a favourite along with the likes of the Maldives, Prague, Easter Island, London and Vietnam.

The New York Times is recognised as having one of the world�s most respected travel sections and with a circulation of more than one million, the inclusion of the Barossa is a coup for the region and South Australia.

The article heaps praise on the Barossa as one of the world�s oldest Shiraz regions and also describes Adelaide as a �foodie� destination.

South Australian Tourism Minister Jane Lomax-Smith says the Barossa is one of the State�s tourism gems and this international recognition will ensure its attractions are publicised to the world.

�We know what the Barossa has to offer and now we can proudly show this off to the world. The New York Times is a high-calibre publication and each year the travel list edition is extremely popular,� she said.

�The inclusion of the Barossa highlights how the State�s tourism experiences are becoming more and more competitive and recognised on an international stage.�

A new reward card has been launched in Barossa recently, capitalising on the booming food and wine industries in the region.

The Butcher, Baker, Winemaker Trail Card has been developed to offer food and wine lovers a taste of all things gourmet in the Barossa, and will further strengthen the region�s reputation as the home of Australian wine and food.

Minister Lomax-Smith said the State Government, through the South Australian Tourism Commission and regional marketing organisations, continues to develop targeted and innovative marketing initiatives to attract visitors in key target markets.

�We are always looking at new ways to attract the attention of travel audiences in what is an increasingly competitive market,� she said.

For further information: Melissa Humphrey Ph: 02 4576 6985 Mob: 0414 317 913