Hoi An continues to affirm its place as a top global and Asian destination, having consistently been honored in the magazine’s prestigious World’s Best Awards Hall of Fame. This recognition is reserved for cities that have been voted among the best for several consecutive years.

In this year’s survey, readers of Travel + Leisure expressed a strong preference for cities rich in open spaces and exploration potential. Hoi An received an impressive reader score of 91.00, securing the 6th spot globally.

The survey praised cities that blend breathtaking attractions, luxurious hotels, vibrant cuisine, and energetic atmospheres. Each recognized city boasts a unique charm and cultural richness, prompting many readers to describe them as “places that have it all” and “destinations worth revisiting.”

Asian cities shone particularly bright this year, with 7 of the top 10 cities located in the region. Key factors influencing readers’ votes included nightlife, cuisine, hotels, and historical or cultural heritage.

At the top of the list was San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, known for its colorful architecture, rich cultural scene, affordability, and attractions like museums, botanical gardens, and artisan shops.

Chiang Mai, Thailand, placed 2nd, admired for its blend of heritage sites, street food, friendly locals, and luxurious accommodations. Tokyo ranked 3rd, hailed as one of the world’s cleanest, most welcoming, and culturally immersive cities, offering excellent value and a dynamic mix of the traditional and the modern.

Hoi An, Vietnam’s riverside gem, was highlighted for its picturesque Old Town, intricate canals, and distinctive architecture. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site, Hoi An exemplifies the harmonious fusion of indigenous and foreign cultures through its iconic tiled rooftops, temples, and ancient assembly halls.

Once a bustling Southeast Asian trading port, Hoi An’s charm lies in its timeworn yellow-painted houses, moss-covered rooftops, cobblestone alleys, nostalgic cafés, artisanal shops, vibrant local cuisine, and colorful nightlife.

The city also captivates visitors with its famous monthly lantern festival, when the entire Old Town glows under thousands of hand-crafted lanterns and floating flower lights, creating a dreamy, romantic scene that’s both tranquil and magical.

PV