Global travel authority Lonely Planet has chosen Lord Howe Island as one of the world's top 10 regions for next year in its Best in Travel 2020 collection.

Best in Travel 2020 is Lonely Planet's 15th annual collection of the world's hottest destinations and journeys for the year ahead.

The best-selling, inspirational travel yearbook highlights the top 10 countries, cities, regions, and best-value destinations that Lonely Planet's experts recommend for 2020.

This edition places particular emphasis on sustainable travel experiences - ensuring travellers will have a positive impact wherever they choose to go.

Lord Howe Island, east of Port Macquarie, is ranked fifth on the book's list of top 10 regions in 2020.

And even better, direct flights to Lord Howe Island from Port Macquarie mean that travelling to one of the best places in the world is even easier.

Eastern Air Services has been approved to fly a passenger service by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

The team at Eastern Air Services based at Port Macquarie Airport have been working on the airline for three years.

Eastern Air Services has already been operating a charter service to Lord Howe Island for the last two years, as well as a weekly freight service.

"Parked in the middle of nowhere 600km off the Australian coast, this visually stunning island makes an instant impact on the senses with its jaw-dropping World Heritage-listed beauty," writes Lonely Planet.

"Two soaring green mountains overlook a perfect lagoon and the world's southernmost coral reef; perfect crescents of beach and splendid hiking trails through the lush forest add to brilliant outdoors possibilities.

"This onetime volcano's isolation makes it a refuge for many endemic species, as well as plentiful birdlife.

"The island is a shining example of sustainably managed tourism; only 400 visitors are allowed at any time, and you are encouraged to participate in a series of ecological projects. Lord Howe's remoteness and manageable size make it an idyllic escape."

1. Central Asian Silk Road

2. Le Marche, Italy

3. Thoku, Japan

4. Maine, USA

5. Lord Howe Island, Australia

6. Guizhou Province, China

7. Cadiz Province, Spain

8. Northeast Argentina

9. Kvarner Gulf, Croatia

10. Brazilian Amazon