Recently conducted by Agoda, the Travel Smart Study has revealed the 10 fastest rising travel destinations in Asia. From the millions of bookings made on the site in 2016, it looks as if travellers to Asia are showing a preference for lesser-known destinations, bypassing the most obvious for new experience and new settings.
Japan’s mythical powder paradise, Niseko in Hokkaido is topping the list. Niseko features a series of interconnected resorts with an impressive 800+ skiable hectares, and with an annual snowfall of over 15m, the location also offers off-trail skiing – which is pretty uncommon in Japanese resorts.
South East Asia plays host to seven of the top ten destinations proving that tropical island life continues to attract nomads looking for holiday spots off the beaten track. This includes islands like Thailand’s Koh Kood (3), Cambodia’s Koh Rong (5) and the Philippines’ Siquijor Island (9). To many Filipinos, Siquijor is an island known for its healers and witchcraft magic. For its visitors though, the Island’s most enticing features are found underwater on the marine reserve, on its white beaches, or at the peak of Mount Bandilaan, the highest point in the island’s centre.
Andy Edwards, Global Director Brand and Communications adds, “It’s clear that more travelers are adopting a more adventurous approach to travel, exploring new, undiscovered places rather than the traditional ‘holiday’ to a well-trodden destination,” says Andy Edwards. “We’re seeing an increase in bookings made in areas that bring travellers closer to local culture and nature, where life is experienced at a different pace, and against a different backdrop.”
Asia’s 10 fastest growing destinations:
1. Niseko, Japan
2. Banaue, Philippines
3. Koh Kood, Thailand
4. Koh Lipe, Thailand
5. Koh Rong, Cambodia
6. Koh Lanta, Thailand
7. Harbin, China
8. Tangalle, Sri Lanka
9. Siquijor Island, Philippines
10. Khao Lak, Thailand
The study compared property bookings made by Agoda travelers visiting Asian destinations from 2015 to 2016.
Feature Image: Niseko, Japan (Seshu Niseko Boutiques 5 Bedroom Chalet Jacuzzi).
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