TripAdvisor^®, the world’s largest travel site, today announced Bali as the winner of its Travellers’ Choice™ awards for destinations, for the world and for Asia.

Award winners were determined using an algorithm that took into account the quantity and quality of reviews and ratings for hotels, restaurants and attractions in destinations worldwide, gathered over a 12-month period, as well as traveller booking interest on TripAdvisor. The awards honour 418 outstanding destinations in 24 lists across the globe.

Indonesian Minister of Tourism Mr. Arief Yahya said, “We are overjoyed that millions of travellers on TripAdvisor have recognised Bali as the number one destination in the world for 2017 Travellers’ Choice awards. On behalf of Indonesian people, I am honoured and would like to express my gratitude to everyone who has chosen Bali as the best destination in the world. Bali is one of more than 17,000 islands in Indonesia and we encourage travellers to explore Wonderful Indonesia further with our many cultural, natural, sensory, modern, and adventure wonders.”

“Bali has been a favourite destination of many travellers over the years and we are delighted to see it take top place in the Travellers’ Choice roll call, both for Asia and the World,” said Janice Lee Fang, Communications Director of TripAdvisor, Asia Pacific. “We want to help travellers discover more of the island using TripAdvisor and hope they in turn will share their amazing experiences with other global travellers who dream about visiting Bali every day.”

Top 10 Travellers’ Choice Destinations in Asia:

(All prices are in Indonesian Rupiah)

1. Bali, Indonesia (TripAdvisor average nightly rate of all bookable hotels in Bali: Rp 2,739,800)

The beautiful island of Bali has something to offer all travellers: Seminyak for the spa and boutique shopping lover, Nusa Dua for families and idyllic Ubud for travellers seeking peace and tranquillity. Travellers new to the island should explore the Scared Monkey Forest and stay at the Junjungan Ubud Hotel and Spa which overlooks rice paddy fields.

2. Siem Reap, Cambodia (TripAdvisor average nightly rate of all bookable hotels in Siem Reap: Rp 1,316,700)

Home to the world-renowned Angkor Wat, Siem Reap has become a popular destination over the past two decades, with its rich history and diverse range of accommodations, dining and shopping options. Travellers can relive Siem Reap’s storied past with a visit to Bayon Temple for its fascinating ruins and bas reliefs and complete the local experience by ordering a plate of beef lok lak at Haven and staying at the charming Golden Temple Residence.

3. Phuket, Thailand (TripAdvisor average nightly rate of all bookable hotels in Phuket: Rp 1,316,700)

Home to two award-winning Travellers’ Choice beaches, Kata Noi and Nai Harn, Phuket is a great holiday spot with plenty of natural attractions to explore, like limestone cliffs, caves and clear blue waters. Start the day with a trek to see the Phuket Big Buddha, a glorious 45-metres tall Buddha statue located on top of Nakkerd Hills, stop for a plate of authentic pad Thai at the Pad Thai Shop and spend the afternoon taking a lesson in Thai cooking  before returning to the warm hospitality at Navatara Phuket Resort.

4. Hoi An, Vietnam (TripAdvisor average nightly rate of all bookable hotels in Hoi An: Rp 944,300)

Hoi An’s humble beginnings as an old sea port can still be felt today. The well-preserved Hoi An Ancient Town with its riverside settings and colonial architecture is a major draw for travellers looking for old-world charm. After a day of sightseeing, travellers can snack on white rose dumplings and spring rolls at the family-run Wooden House Cafe & Restaurant and retreat to the budget-friendly Pham Gia Boutique Homestay Villa.

5. Kathmandu, Nepal (TripAdvisor average nightly rate of all bookable hotels in Kathmandu: Rp 824,600)

Kathmandu is an astonishingly beautiful destination featuring majestic Himalayan mountains, alluring temples and vibrant town squares. Popular with travellers seeking spiritual pursuits, tours of iconic Buddhist sites such as the Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath Temple are a must. Feast on local dumplings, momos and enjoy Nepalese hospitality at the Aryatara Kathmandu Hotel.

6. Hanoi, Vietnam (TripAdvisor average nightly rate of all bookable hotels in Hanoi: Rp 904,400)

The capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi is famed for its art and architecture, with numerous colonial buildings and art galleries scattered across the city. Old Quarter remains a favourite amongst travellers wanting an authentic local experience, with rows of shops and food stalls offering local delicacies and wares. Order a pork sandwich, or as locals call it banh mi pate, and experience roadside dining on small stools and tables at Banh Mi 25. Travellers can end their day at the upscale Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, located at the edge of the historic Old Quarter.

7. Ko Samui, Thailand (TripAdvisor average nightly rate of all bookable hotels in Ko Samui:            Rp 6,317,500)

Travellers head to idyllic Ko Samui to restoration and rejuvenation at its many beautiful beaches and spas. For food and shopping, visitors can head to Fisherman’s Village on Friday nights for the local night market or head to Khaw Glong Thai Restaurant for fresh mango salad and stay at the modern and secluded Code.

8. Bangkok, Thailand (TripAdvisor average nightly rate of all bookable hotels in Bangkok:                        Rp 1,476,300)

One of the busiest metropolis in the world, Bangkok features lively markets, vibrant nightlife and attractions that reflect its Buddhist heritage. Travellers can walk through the temple grounds of Wat Pho (Temple of Reclining Buddha) to appreciate the craftsmanship and elaborate details of one of Bangkok’s most exquisitely decorated Buddhist temples. Refuel at local favourite Ama and stay at the wallet-friendly Bangkok Loft Inn.

9. Lombok, Indonesia (TripAdvisor average nightly rate of all bookable hotels in Lombok:                         Rp 1,729,000)

Just a stone’s throw from Bali, Lombok is ideal for travellers looking for natural sights and outdoor adventure. From a lazy sunbathe at Tanjung Ann Beach, a refreshing dip at Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfall, to hiking the steep terrains of Mount Rinjani, there are plenty of activities for any tourist. Travellers can try local warung dishes such as gado-gado at Nugget’s Corner and spend the night at the small and intimate The Lombok Lodge.

10. Tokyo, Japan (TripAdvisor average nightly rate of all bookable hotels in Tokyo: Rp 997,500)

Tokyo is a dizzying whirl with its futuristic skyscrapers, neon signs and crush of people, interspersed with centuries-old temples and traditional gardens. Travellers can take in the beauty of the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden,  taste Hakushu’s  signature Kobe beef and rest at the award winning Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo.

TripAdvisor is the world’s largest travel site**. Travelers can read millions of reviews and opinions and book their next trip at: www.tripadvisor.com.

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Note to Editor

Average nightly rates of bookable hotels in award-winning destinations are based on TripAdvisor pricing data for March 1 – August 31, 2017, aggregated from booking partners.