For 24 years, Conde Nast Traveler has asked readers to rank the world's best cities, hotels and more. Senior editor Lisa Gill appeared on the TODAY show Friday morning to discuss the 2011 results.

For the 16th straight year, Sydney, Australia, ranked as the top city in the world. "It's sophisticated, international, even edgy," said Gill. Another perk for sunbathers and swimmers is the city's 37 beaches and a climate that rarely dips below 50 degrees. There's also a "thriving" arts community as well as "unparalleled" dining.

This year, Charleston, S.C., dethroned San Francisco as the best city in the U.S. "We think friendliness is the key," said Gill. "Southern hospitality goes a long way." While Charleston is often thought of for its old world charm, Gill said it also has a modern dining scene that offers both high-end fare as well as traditional offerings like dockside oyster roasts. San Francisco was readers' second choice, followed by Santa Fe, N.M.

Readers selected the Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai, Pudong as the world's best hotel. The property got nearly perfect scores when it came to rooms, location and decor. Though the hotel is in Shanghai's commercial center, the rooms have "fantastic views" overlooking the river. 

Watch the video to learn more about the results, including which U.S. hotel was tops with readers.

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