The World’s Best Awards are compiled each year by Travel+Leisure who ask readers their travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more.
Readers rated cities on their sights and landmarks, culture, cuisine, friendliness, shopping, and overall value.
Here we look at the top 5 Best Cities in Southeast Asia in 2021:
1. Ubud, Indonesia
A startling mix of Balinese countryside, culture, temples and handicrafts, alongside world class hotels and wellness retreats has made Ubud number 2 in the Best Cities of Asia and number 4 in the World’s Best Cities lists.
Ubud is also home to the hotel sitting at the top of the Best Resort Hotels of Asia list and at number 5 in the World’s Best Hotels list, Capella Ubud.
2. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Founded in 1296, Chiang Mai was capital of the Lanna Kingdom until 1558 and has been voted as number 4 in the Best Cities of Asia and number 9 in the World’s Best Cities lists.
Chiang Mai really has something for everyone, with lively nightlife, stunning temples, traditional handicrafts, excellent food and a friendly atmosphere. All at a much more relaxed pace than in other Thai cities.
Chiang Mai is also the gateway to much of the north of Thailand enabling visitors to discover indigenous tribes, mountains, jungles, outdoor adventures and so much more.
3. Bangkok, Thailand
The Thai capital, despite its historic landmarks, is relatively new, dating back to the early 15th century. Bangkok is number 5 in the Best Cities of Asia and number 10 in the World’s Best Cities lists.
Home to more than 8 million people (over 12% of the total Thai population) this is a a lively mix of traditional and modern. It can be a hot and humid but for most visitors to Thailand and the region it is a must visit.
Bangkok is also home to the hotel sitting at number 2 in the Best City Hotels of Asia list and number 4 in the World’s Best Hotels list, Capella Bangkok.
4. Luang Prabang, Laos
The capital of Northern Laos, an UNESCO World Heritage Site and described by some as the most beautiful city in Southeast Asia. Yet, due its location, rarely features on travellers destinations.
The city is located on a peninsula at the confluence of the Nam Khan and Mekong River. It consists of 58 adjacent villages, of which 33 are within the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city is at number 7 in the Best Cities of Asia and number 13 in the World’s Best Cities lists.
5. Hoi An, Vietnam
At number 13 in the Best Cities of Asia list is Hoi An, a beautiful trading port with many buildings dating back to the 15th to 19th centuries with a variety of styles from traditional Chinese wooden buildings to French Colonial.
Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and literally translates as “peaceful meeting place”.
According to flyingdogtravel.com
(https://flyingdogtravel.com/2021/09/14/2021-best-cities-in-southeast-asia/)
