I live in one of the UK's best places - but there's one thing I'd change

A resident of a UK city recently hailed as amongst the globe's finest destinations adores living there, though she'd implement one alteration given the chance.

Bristol featured in Lonely Planet's top destinations to visit in 2026 this week. This follows just months after Time Out recognised it as one of the world's premier locations.

Remarkable recognition indeed.

Recognition that Nakita Devi, a breath therapist at Limitless Living, believes is thoroughly warranted, reportsthe Mirror.She explained to The Mirror her passion for Bristol and what drew her back to the city.

"There's a real blend here of history, culture, community, and events. The level of innovation and creativity almost feels tangible. I also love feeling a general sense of togetherness and trust that exists here - perhaps rare for a city," she explained.

"I've lived in various other places and countries over the years, but Bristol is home because there are many people here committed to making life better for everyone; whether that's through art and music, politics and education, social justice and inclusion, or family festivals and sober spaces. It really feels incredibly diverse, with something for everyone, more than anywhere else I've been."

Regarding her suggestions for Bristol's finest dining, drinking, and visiting spots, the 37-year-old overflowed with recommendations. "There are so many! Stokes Croft and Gloucester Road have a whole host of independent cafes, restaurants, and bakeries. King Street is also one of my favourites for bars and pubs with its history and cobbled stones. For dinner, personally, I love Indian, so Rock Salt and Nutmeg are two of my top recommendations," the born-and-raised Bristolian said.

"I love the many open green spaces that are so accessible! Brandon Hill, Ashton Court, Blaise Castle, and Leigh Woods are just a few of my favourites for a wander any time of the year."

Yet, like every destination, Bristol isn't without its drawbacks (though locals might dispute this.)

Nakita does have one minor criticism of Bristol. "It can sometimes feel quite intense. I particularly notice it when I return after being away. There's an aliveness or electricity here that can feel overwhelming at times. Additionally, with such a constant range of events to choose from, it's easy to want to do it all instead of prioritising rest," she said.

Nakita offered her thoughts on the city during the same week Bristol earned recognition as an essential destination for 2026 by Lonely Planet, owing to its dynamic street art culture.

The city stands as the sole UK location featured on the travel publisher's global Best In Travel compilation for the upcoming year.

"Bristol's street art scene makes for a fantastic inclusion in Best in Travel, Lonely Planet's annual celebration of essential journeys and experiences for the coming year," said Tom Hall, vice president of Lonely Planet. "We're thrilled to highlight one of the UK's most vibrant cities, showcasing the skills of local artists. Discovering the colourful, creative murals scattered around the city is the ideal starting point for understanding Bristol."

The city reportedly boasts over 250 street artworks at various locations. 'Our Common Ground', a large new piece covering part of the Centre, was unveiled in September, although it received a somewhat mixed response.

Banksy, arguably the world's most renowned street artist and a Bristol native, significantly enhances the city's reputation. Kathryn Davis, Chief Executive of tourism body Visit West, expressed her joy that Bristol had been included in Lonely Planet's 2026 edition, emphasising the substantial financial contribution the local arts scene brings to the city and wider region, according to Bristol Live.

"Our constantly changing outdoor gallery attracts thousands of visitors from around the globe each year, contributing millions of pounds to the local visitor economy," she declared.

"Visitors not only stay in hotels and join tours, but they also contribute significantly to the visitor economy at large... Crucially, this impact extends beyond the city centre, helping to drive economic benefits across the wider city."

Visit West has revealed that tourism contributes a staggering £2.6bn to the combined economy of Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset, with approximately 45,000 individuals employed in the region's 'visitor economy'.

"We are thrilled that Lonely Planet has named Bristol in its Best in Travel 2026 for our city's street art," Ms Davis expressed her delight. "We look forward to welcoming many more visitors this next year and beyond, to discover the humorous, playful, political and subversive street art in and around the city."