Skegness compared to North Korea in travel criticism

In 2017, Skegness, a seaside town in Lincolnshire, England, was included in a list by Destination Tips that named it among the worst places to visit in the world. This list placed Skegness alongside notorious locations such as Pyongyang in North Korea and Damascus in Syria, drawing significant attention and backlash. The criticism asserted that the town had drastically declined, referring to it as a 'pile of dirt' with a rundown amusement park, which many found to be a harsh and unsubstantiated judgment. The then-mayor of Skegness, Dick Edginton, expressed outrage at this labeling, arguing that such comparisons were offensive, particularly in relation to an oppressive regime like North Korea. Edginton defended Skegness, highlighting its popularity as a holiday destination that attracted approximately four million visitors annually. He also pointed to the ongoing investment in the town, demonstrating confidence from both local and national businesses. This investment is aimed at revitalizing the town and enhancing its appeal to tourists. Many residents and visitors of Skegness believe that it retains its charm as a traditional British seaside resort, despite the negative publicity. The ranking by Destination Tips has been met with skepticism, as it juxtaposes the struggles of a fun-loving coastal town with cities afflicted by violence and poverty. While residents cherish their town and the nostalgia it carries, the harsh comparison has prompted heated discussions about the standards applied to evaluate destinations. The enduring legacy of Skegness as a tourist spot remains unwavering, despite the fluctuations experienced in its reputation. Furthermore, the reaction against the listing illustrates a broader conversation about perceptions of British seaside resorts in comparison to international destinations that present more severe challenges. The attack on Skegness has led to calls from both civic leaders and the public for a re-evaluation of what constitutes an appealing holiday destination, as views vary widely on attractiveness and quality compared to other sites across the globe.