Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital, has once again been crowned the premier vacation spot in Asia for 2025, according to the renowned online travel publication, Smart Travel Asia. This marks the second year in a row the city has claimed the top rank, a testament to its widespread appeal, gathering the most votes from a global community of countless travelers and avid readers.
Smart Travel Asia highlighted Bangkok’s compelling charm, noting its vibrant energy and the vast array of experiences it presents. Visitors are drawn to its exceptional culinary scene, rich cultural heritage, impressive shopping opportunities, and the genuine warmth of its people. The publication further characterized the city as an ever-lively and colorful destination, offering excitement both day and night.
The city of Bangkok truly shines as a gastronomic haven, boasting an incredible spectrum of dining options. From legendary street food stalls dishing out delectable local fare to sophisticated Michelin-starred restaurants and trendy rooftop bars offering breathtaking views, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Beyond its culinary prowess, Bangkok is also home to a treasure trove of cultural landmarks and historical sites. Iconic temples like Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho stand as magnificent symbols of Thai heritage, consistently drawing in tourists from across the globe.
For those seeking retail therapy, Bangkok offers an unparalleled shopping experience. Luxurious malls in the city center cater to high-end tastes, while bustling street vendors and the famous, sprawling Chatuchak Weekend Market provide endless opportunities for unique finds. Adding to its allure is the city’s remarkable affordability and the inherent hospitality of its residents. Even as some other destinations within Thailand have seen price increases, Bangkok remains a budget-friendly option when compared to many other popular international cities.
Bali, a beloved Indonesian island, secured the second position in Smart Travel Asia’s 2025 survey, sharing this esteemed spot with the vibrant Japanese metropolis of Tokyo. Following closely behind, Chiang Mai, another captivating Thai city, placed third, further underscoring Thailand’s strong appeal in the global tourism landscape. Meanwhile, Seoul in South Korea and Luang Prabang in Laos jointly claimed the fourth spot.
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of Asia’s top holiday destinations for 2025:
1. Bangkok
2. Tokyo and Bali
3. Chiang Mai
4. Seoul and Luang Prabang
5. Hong Kong, Phuket, and Rajasthan
6. Taipei, Kyoto, and Da Nang / Hoi An
7. Singapore, Siem Reap / Angkor, and Penang
8. Phu Quoc, Kuala Lumpur, and the Maldives
9. Macau, Kerala, and Hangzhou
10. Bhutan, Palawan, and Sabah
For more up-to-the-minute news from Tempo, you can find their updates on Google News.
In other news concerning travel, approximately 42 international flights and 32 domestic routes experienced disruptions to their departure and arrival schedules due to a power outage at Bali’s Ngurah Rai Airport. Ahmad Syaugi Shahab, the General Manager of Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport, confirmed the impact of this power failure on Friday’s flight operations. The state-owned electricity company, PLN, later shed light on the cause of the hour-long blackout that occurred at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport on Friday, October 10, 2025.
Shifting focus back to culinary delights, Thailand’s cuisine is celebrated for its assertive and fragrant spices and herbs, alongside its masterful blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes.
In an exciting announcement on October 7th, the results of the Conde Nast Traveler 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards were revealed. Bali emerged victorious, securing the first place accolade, with the neighboring island of Lombok following closely in second.
Locally, authorities on Nusa Penida, Bali, reported the arrest of an 18-year-old individual suspected of stealing cash from a Slovakian tourist.
In regional governance, Bali Governor Wayan Koster expressed his agreement with 18 other governors regarding their collective wishes concerning regional transfer funds, conveyed to the Minister of Finance.
Discussions are also underway regarding a potential new airport in North Bali, which is seen as aligning with President Prabowo’s vision for accelerating the equitable distribution of development across the nation.
The premium price associated with ‘kopi luwak’ coffee primarily stems from its distinctive and traditional production methods.
Finally, the harmonious blend of flavors and aromas characteristic of batagor, an Indonesian street food, has successfully captivated numerous culinary enthusiasts, both domestically and on the international stage.
