These rankings are part of this year's "World's Best Awards" by the 83-year-old travel website Travel+Leisure, which was announced this week.
Writing about Hoi An, Travel+Leisure had some great things to say: “This city on Vietnam’s central coast has long been a beloved tourist destination. It attracts visitors who love its eclectic architecture, energetic nightlife, and naturally flowing canals. But what really impressed our readers was the culture and people. Fans wrote: “Hoi An’s culture really makes Hoi An what it is,” “So colorful and vibrant! The people are so friendly and the food is amazing.” Another person compared Hoi An to “a magical romantic village.” Best of all, Hoi An is easy to get around and very affordable, making it a favorite city for our readers in Vietnam and across Asia.” Travel+Leisure also suggested renting a bicycle to roam the streets of Hoi An.
Last year, Travel+Leisure also voted Hoi An as one of the 50 best destinations in the world. Travel+Leisure rated Hoi An as one of the most historically significant (and beautiful) trading ports in Vietnam - with luxury beach resorts and unique architecture that have brought new life to this UNESCO-recognized “World Cultural Heritage” Ancient Town.
Voting for the annual Travel+Leisure “World’s Best Awards” draws readers from around the world. Travel+Leisure asks readers to rate their experiences in top cities, islands, cruises, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rate destinations based on scenery, landscape, culture, cuisine, friendliness, shopping, and overall values.
In the list of 15 top tourist cities in Asia, following Hoi An of Vietnam are the following cities: Chiang Mai of Thailand ranked second with 89.62 points; Kyoto (Japan) ranked third with 88.77 points; Udaipur (India) ranked fourth with 88.49 points; Luang Prabang (Laos) ranked fifth with 88.17 points. Followed by Ubud (Indonesia), Bangkok (Thailand), Jaipur (India), Tokyo (Japan), Siem Reap (Cambodia), Singapore, Kolkata (India), Seoul (Korea), Taiwan (China), Hong Kong (China).
According to Travel+Leisure, a riot of color, scent, and sound characterizes many of Asia’s best cities. Visitors to the continent want to immerse themselves in the bustle of everyday life, walking down streets and alleyways, visiting ancient temples and ornate palaces, staying in stilt houses and even modern skyscrapers. Whether their passion is food or art, shopping or nightlife, they discover that the urban centers of the world’s largest continent are filled with energy and excitement, making exploring them one of the greatest joys of travel.
