In the cold days of winter, many travelers start dreaming of faraway lands and warmer weather.
The exciting continent of Asia has many destinations that check both of those boxes while offering a culture and lifestyle unique from the Western world.
Tripadvisor researched trends and travel ratings to pick the “best of the best” spots for tourists who want to experience Asia for the first (or fiftieth) time.
Here are five destinations in Asia that made it to the top 1% of Tripadvisor’s destinations. Which destination is the right spot for you?
Bali, Indonesia
Bali has been a tourist hotspot for years. So it’s no surprise that it reached the top of Trip Advisor’s Best of the Best list for Asia in 2024. This province of Indonesia has tropical weather, beautiful beaches, and a rich cultural heritage.
From wellness spas and art workshops to cultural tours and historic temples, there is plenty for visitors to see and do.
However, those who choose to visit this colorful Asian paradise must be willing to follow a few rules and maintain a respectful attitude toward the culture.
In 2023, Bali officials created a stricter dos and don’ts list for would-be fun-seekers. For example, tourists aren’t allowed to pose naked in front of religious relics, touch sacred trees, or visit temples in street clothes or during their period.
Bali is a favorite spot for tourists to escape for the winter and enjoy a warm holiday. However, it is also home to many digital nomads. This colorful island, with its slow-paced living and friendly residents, can be a perfect place to relax and gain inspiration.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi is a vibrant city over 1000 years old and the capital of Vietnam. It’s known for its beautiful buildings and temples from hundreds of years ago as well as a bustling street life. The city combines Asian-style architecture with French colonial for a unique appeal.
In the Old Quarter, the narrow streets are full of street vendors selling egg coffee, fresh flowers, fruit, and more. This area is active until well after 10:00 at night. You can walk the area on foot or choose a guided tour.
Other favorite spots for tourists in Hanoi include the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Imperial Citadel of Thăng Long, West Lake, and Ba Vì National Park.
This large, bustling city is home to over 8 million residents, and it welcomed three times that many visitors just last year. Vietnam is considered one of the safest countries in Asia, and its capital city is a perfect spot for solo travelers to enjoy a bright, festive atmosphere.
Hoi An, Vietnam
Vietnam is one of the safest and most affordable ways to see Asia. This popular country also has two cities rated “best of the best” by fellow travelers.
Hoi An is the third top-rated destination in Asia. Historically, this city played an important role in Southeast Asia’s trade from the 1400s to the 1800s. While Hoi An may not be the central hub it once was, it is still well-loved by travelers.
This city is full of history and culture. Some of its top attractions include the Ancient Town with its picturesque canals, the UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site Hoi An Night Market with its colorful paper lanterns, and the Quan Cong Temple.
If you want to experience Hoi An with fewer crowds, you can plan a trip between February and April. This is off-season for tourists, and the cool weather is perfect for enjoying the sights and sounds of this bustling city.
New Delhi, India
New Delhi is a perfect destination to experience India’s history, culture, and art. Although the capital of India is home to over 33 million inhabitants, it still has plenty of green spaces to rest the eyes.
Some of the favorite tourist sites in New Delhi are the Red Fort, home of the Mughal emperors, the impressive Swaminarayan Akshardham, and Humayun’s Tomb.
There is also so much to see in New Delhi; you’ll need a few days to take it all in. You can hire a rickshaw to take you through the streets or join a multi-day tour to see the sights with a guide.
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is incredibly popular with tourists and is known as the second most visited city in the world. Once you take a glance around, you can see why the visitors pour in.
The golden palaces reflect the light and seem to double the sunshine in this city.
Also, the floating markets around Bangkok can give you a shopping experience you won’t soon forget.
This bustling city welcomes the young crowd with culture, shopping, historical tours, and plenty of nightlife spots.
If you are looking for a warm, lively spot to while away the winter days, Bangkok is a perfect pick. The weather tends to stay around 75 or 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny skies are the norm until March, when Bangkok’s rainy season begins.
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