File photo for reference only

 

Bangkok has been named the best holiday destination in Asia for 2025 by Smart Travel Asia, maintaining its position for the second year in a row. The accolade is based on the opinions of hundreds of thousands of travellers and readers globally, acknowledging the city's vibrant 24-hour culture, cuisine, shopping, and hospitality. This recognition highlights Bangkok’s appeal as a bustling city that offers diverse experiences, reinforcing its status as a leading travel hotspot.

 

Smart Travel Asia praised Bangkok for its unique blend of energy and diversity. The magazine pointed out the city’s strengths, including its renowned food scene that ranges from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, and its lively nightlife. Additionally, Bangkok’s cultural heritage, showcased through iconic sites like Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Arun, remains a significant draw for international tourists.

 

Experts note the impact this recognition could have on Bangkok's tourism sector. With affordability and local friendliness identified as key attractions, this award presents an opportunity for the city to further strengthen its tourism offerings. The inclusion of other Thai destinations like Chiang Mai and Phuket in the top rankings underlines the country's broader appeal and potential for sustained tourism growth.

 

Looking forward, Bangkok's continued commitment to sustainable tourism is essential. The “Best in Travel 2025” award signals a need for collaboration across various sectors to enhance Thailand’s tourism industry. As Bangkok plans for future growth, the city aims to maintain its appeal while ensuring a balance between tourism growth and sustainability.

 

Key Takeaways

• Bangkok retains the title of Asia's best holiday destination in 2025.
• The city is celebrated for its food, culture, and affordability.
• Thai cities dominate the top holiday destinations, reflecting diverse tourism appeal.

 

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-10-14

 

 

14 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

acknowledging the city's vibrant 24-hour culture, cuisine, shopping, and hospitality.

Seriously? 24 hours, if you don't count midnight-1100, 1400-1700.

14 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Bangkok has been named the best holiday destination in Asia for 2025 by Smart Travel Asia, maintaining its position for the second year in a row.

Yeah okay... 

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Looking forward, Bangkok's continued commitment to sustainable tourism is essential.

 

Much as I love Thailand and Bangkok, I'd have to choke back a little puke if I had to claim "sustainable" was an accomplishment. 

 

I'd characterize it more as "slash and burn" tourism.

 

I do love Thailand also; however, the top vacation destination question was probably presented to those who have never been here.  Like most of the world Thailand is no longer the Thailand of 1960.