Hoi An is the most attractive tourist city in Asia.

These rankings are part of this year's "World's Best Awards" from the 83-year-old travel website Travel+Leisure, which were announced this week.

Writing about Hoi An, Travel+Leisure had high praise: “This city on Vietnam’s central coast has long been a beloved tourist destination. It attracts visitors who appreciate its eclectic architecture, vibrant nightlife, and natural canals. But what truly impresses our readers is its culture and people. Fans have written: ‘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 likened visiting Hoi An to ‘arriving in a magically romantic village.’ Above all, Hoi An is easily accessible and affordable, making it a favorite among our readers in Vietnam and across Asia.” Travel+Leisure also suggests renting a bicycle to wander through Hoi An’s streets.

Last year, Travel+Leisure also voted Hoi An as one of the 50 best destinations in the world. Travel+Leisure assessed Hoi An as one of Vietnam's most historically significant (and beautiful) trading ports – with luxurious beachfront resorts featuring unique architecture that have breathed new life into this UNESCO World Heritage-recognized Old Town.

Travel+Leisure's annual "World's Best Awards" voting process attracts a large number of readers from around the world. Travel+Leisure asks readers to provide reviews based on their experiences with top cities, islands, cruises, spas, airlines, and many other categories. Readers evaluate destinations based on scenery, landscapes, culture, cuisine, friendliness, shopping, and overall value.

In the list of the top 15 tourist cities in Asia, following Hoi An in Vietnam are: Chiang Mai in Thailand in second place with 89.62 points; Kyoto (Japan) in third place with 88.77 points; Udaipur (India) in fourth place with 88.49 points; and Luang Prabang (Laos) in fifth place with 88.17 points. Following these are Ubud (Indonesia), Bangkok (Thailand), Jaipur (India), Tokyo (Japan), Siem Reap (Cambodia), Singapore, Kolkata (India), Seoul (South Korea), Taiwan (China), and Hong Kong (China).

According to Travel+Leisure, the vibrant colors, smells, and sounds characterize many of Asia's best cities. Travelers to the continent want to immerse themselves in the bustling daily life, strolling through narrow streets and alleyways, visiting ancient temples and ornate palaces, staying in traditional stilt houses, and even in 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 brimming with energy and excitement, making exploration one of the greatest joys of travel.

My Tong