Bermuda and its leading hotels have slipped down a poll on best holiday destinations by readers of the prestigious `Travel + Leisure' magazine.

Bermuda was top island in the Caribbean, Bermuda and Bahamas in the magazine's poll last year, but this year it has dropped to second. And The Reefs, which last year was top hotel in the same category, is now fourth, with Cambridge Beaches sixth, and Elbow Beach 25th, according to the readers' poll.

The top island in the region this year was Cuba, with the best hotel spot in the area going to Cap Juluca in Anguilla.

The readers were asked to rate the islands on the basis of natural attractions, activities/sights, restaurants/food, people, and value. Bermuda's accolade comes the day after the Island was voted fifth best destination in the world for honeymoons by Modern Bride magazine.

Acting Tourism Minister Neletha Butterfield said of the `Travel + Leisure' vote yesterday: "This distinction is especially meaningful in that it is voted on by the public.

"`Travel + Leisure' readers are known to be extremely discerning, and for Bermuda and several of our world-class hotels to be honoured in such a way, it sends the powerful message that the Island is offering an outstanding product."

Sydney was voted the world's best city, New York the top in the United States and Canada, Florence was best in Europe, Cape Town for Africa and the Middle East, Bangkok won Asia, and Rio De Janeiro topped the poll for Mexico and Central and South America.

The best hotel in the world accolade went to the Peninsula Bangkok. The best small hotel was won by the Londolozi Private Game Reserve in South Africa, and Bali was the world's best island.

The best hotels by region were Halekulani, Honolulu (Hawaii); Alvear Palace, Buenos Aires (Mexico, Central and South America); Four Seasons Istanbul (Europe); The Peninsula Beverly Hills (US and Canada); and Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef (Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific).