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  • Agoda reveals top slow travel destinations in Asia

    Agoda reveals top slow travel destinations in Asia

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    With slow travel being one of the most talked about travel trends, digital travel platform Agoda shares the top Asian destinations for slow travel for longer stays. Thailand’s Khao Lak takes the crown as the tourist destination where travelers spend the most time. 

    Searches for slow travel have grown threefold in the past five years, according to Google Trends. Slow travel is an approach to travel that encourages travelers to stay longer at their destination, allowing them to create deeper connections with local culture and people, resulting in meaningful travel experiences.   

    Across eight Asian markets, the destinations with the highest average length of stay are Khao Lak in Thailand, Seoul in South Korea, Perhentian Islands in Malaysia, Tokyo in Japan, Siargao Island in the Philippines, Pekanbaru in Indonesia, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, and Ahmedabad in India respectively. Agoda analyzed the travel platform’s booking data from the first three months of 2024 to compile the rank

    Locally, Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte is where travelers are spending the most consecutive time on average, with Puerto Galera and Davao City rounding out the top three. When traveling internationally, Pinoy travelers spend most time exploring Seoul, South Korea in a quest for a slow travel experience.

    Mike Hwang, country director, Philippines at Agoda shared, “It’s easy to understand why slow travel is one of the most fascinating travel trends right now. In today’s fast-paced world, many travelers will recognize the desire to use their holiday to disconnect from day-to-day life and form a deeper connection with the people and places they visit. It’s something we love to see and encourage at Agoda, as we are passionate about bridging the world through travel. For travelers looking to fully submerge in a holiday destination, whether it’s lazing around in a beach villa or settling in a chic city hotel, the destinations on our slow travel ranking are great places to start.”  

    Some of the destinations on the list are also well-known favorites for shorter city breaks, but both the rural and urban destinations on the slow travel rank are worth spending an extended amount of time in. 

    From swimming amidst the rich reefs in the Perhentian Islands to having a feast in the streets in Ho Chi Minh City, here are some ways for travelers to gain a deeper local experience in these eight destinations.  

    Khao Lak, Thailand 

    Surfing paradise Khao Lak is Asia’s most popular slow travel destination, and for good reason. Its many lesser-known but beautiful beaches and nature spots are perfect places to unwind and let any day-to-day worries drift away. In the evening, the bars and restaurants around Phet Kasem road are great places to enjoy some live Thai folk music and perhaps even a game of snooker against the local talent.  

    Seoul, South Korea 

    Seoul, a vibrant and dynamic city, also conceals isolated corners for those looking to enjoy a slower pace. The quiet backstreets of Buam-dong offer a unique mix of classy modern cafes and nostalgic shops from the 1960s-70s, like traditional rice mills and barbershops. The tranquil Baeksasil Valley invites travelers to leave behind the city’s rapid pace and immerse themselves in a refreshing natural retreat with pristine water and a well-preserved forest. Literature lovers can explore Seongbuk-dong which houses the historic Hanok living quarters of famous Korean writers from as early as the 1930s. 

    Perhentian Islands, Malaysia 

    Escape to the Perhentian Islands, Malaysia’s quintessential beach paradise off Terengganu’s coast, which offers slow-paced tropical bliss. Where crystalline waters meet soft sandy shores, the islands of Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar make an ideal sanctuary for relaxation and aquatic adventures like snorkeling and diving amidst colorful coral reefs. Embrace the untouched allure of Perhentian Kecil’s Adam & Eve Beach, accessible only by a trek through lush landscapes. In this secluded spot, reconnect with nature’s splendor in undisturbed peace. 

    Tokyo, Japan 

    A bustling megacity that is a top global destination, Tokyo is known for being impossible to experience in one trip. That’s why it’s best to slow it down and take the time to immerse in the little pleasures of Japan’s capital. Experience Tokyo’s charms like a local by wandering around some of the lesser-known neighborhoods such as Shimokitazawa for vintage shopping, Yanaka for a traditional atmosphere, and the bohemian neighborhood of Koenji for some alternative music and punk rock. And end the day by grabbing a craft cocktail in a tiny alleyway in Sangenjaya. 

    Siargao Islands, Philippines  

    Siargao Island, a serene gem off Surigao del Norte, lures travelers away from the flurry of city life. Dubbed the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines,” its famed surf spot ‘Cloud 9’ faces the open seas and entices surf enthusiasts with some of the best waves year-round. The island’s size notwithstanding, Siargao has an abundance of natural marvels worth exploring. Traverse the island on a rented motorcycle, dive into the sculpted Magpupungko Rock Pools, and unravel the mystique of the glowing Hagukan Cave amid Sohoton Cove’s splendor. Here, even a month isn’t enough to satisfy the lure of discovery – Siargao calls for repeat visits. 

    Pekanbaru, Indonesia 

    Pekanbaru, the bustling capital of Riau province on Sumatra Island, beautifully intertwines vibrant city life with rich Malay culture and history. Idyllic locations like Lake Siak and Lake Kayangan offer a leisurely day out on the waters; rent a boat, swim, or simply unwind among the picturesque surroundings. The historic alleyways of Kampung Bandar are lined with wooden houses and welcoming locals. For a cultural experience, the Muara Takus Buddhist temple complex nearby transports travelers back to the past. 

    Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam  

    Famous for its bustling streets, Ho Chi Minh City pulses with a vibrant energy that’s best enjoyed when embraced fully. Step into the rhythm of the locals and experience the city slowing down by enjoying a traditional Ca Phe Sua Da, Vietnamese coffee, in the morning. Taste the culture of Vietnam by indulging in the epic street food variety and then take a break from the buzz and seek solace among a collection of over a thousand trees in one of the city’s oldest parks, Tao Dan Park. Saigon presents a diverse array of experiences to be discovered at a relaxed tempo. 

    Ahmedabad, India 

    Ahmedabad invites explorers to take the time to discover its old city lanes, colonial-era havelis, and iconic City Walls. There are authentic flavors to be discovered at Manek Chowk market and there’s solace to be found along the Sabarmati River. A visit to Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram and the Calico Museum of Textiles connects travelers to the city’s history, and legacy of its rich cotton textile industry. 

    Whether for slow travel, short trips, or multi-destination travel itineraries, Agoda is committed to helping travelers see the world with great value deals on over 4 million holiday properties, in addition to flights and activities. Deal hunters planning a slow travel trip are encouraged to look out for the many long-stay deals available on Agoda.  

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  • Iloilo is the most affordable tourist destination in the PH — Agoda

    Iloilo is the most affordable tourist destination in the PH — Agoda

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    With many across Asia looking forward to long weekends and holidays in the coming weeks, digital travel platform Agoda reveals the tourist destinations with the cheapest accommodations on average. Travelers looking for some of the best deals in Asia are best off in Udon Thani, Thailand. While in the Philippines, it’s Iloilo where travelers can enjoy the most competitive room rates in April and May.

    On the brink of the holiday-heavy months of April and May, Agoda shares some of the most popular Asian tourist destinations to get Agoda’s great value deals. In the Philippines, Iloilo is the most affordable tourist destination, with an average room rate of PHP2,814. Iloilo takes the crown from Bacolod, which came out on top of the cheapest destinations ranking a year ago.

    The destinations with the cheapest average accommodation rates across eight Asian markets are Udon Thani in Thailand, Surabaya in Indonesia, Hue in Vietnam, Kuching in Malaysia, Iloilo in the Philippines, Bengaluru in India, Narita in Japan, and Kaohsiung in Taiwan respectively. 

    Enric Casals, associate vice president at Agoda shared, “With many across Asia looking forward to upcoming public holidays like Songkran, Hari Raya, and Golden Week, April and May are a great time to plan a holiday. It is Agoda’s ongoing mission to help travelers see the world for less, and what better way to do that then by sharing the latest cheapest destinations ranking just in time for this popular travel time.” 

    Despite being the tourist destinations with the lowest average room rates, the locations researched have a lot to offer to visitors. From the lively cities of Bengaluru and Kaohsiung to the relaxing riverbanks of Hue and Kuching, here are some of the highlights from the ten cheapest destinations in the researched markets:

    Udon Thani, Thailand (Average room rate: USD28or PHP1,576)

    As one of the ‘big four’ cities in Thailand’s Isaan region, Udon Thani is well worth a visit. There’s always something to do in this lively city, particularly at Nong Prajak Park and the surrounding lake. Stroll down the boulevard to visit highlights like the Chinese Gate and the Udon Thani City Museum. Udon Thani is easily accessible thanks to its airport. International travelers will also appreciate the proximity to Vientiane, the capital of Laos, just on the other side of the Mekong River. 

    Surabaya, Indonesia (Average room rate: USD39 or PHP2,195)

    Surabaya, the rising Indonesian metropolis in East Java, is a true gem. A thriving port city that has it all: from heritage architecture to futuristic skyscrapers. Surabaya promises a rich cultural experience, thanks to its blend of Javanese, Chinese, and Arab influences. Don’t miss out on the Pasar Atom market, with its wide offering of traditional crafts, and be sure to sample the culinary delights like Lontong Balap and Sate Klopo. 

    Hue, Vietnam (Average room rate: USD43 or PHP2,420)

     Hue, located in central Vietnam, is a city steeped in history and culture, serving as the former imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty. The city is renowned for its historic monuments, including the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its majestic palaces and temples. The Perfume River flows through the city, adding to its picturesque charm, and visitors can take a boat cruise to enjoy views of the surrounding architecture. Truly a must-visit destination in Vietnam.

    Kuching, Malaysia (Average room rate: USD49 or PHP2,758)

    Kuching, the state capital of Sarawak in Malaysia, combines a unique vibrancy with stunning natural beauty. The city is situated on the island of Borneo, along the Sarawak River. Kuching is a hub for arts and crafts, with the Main Bazaar, Carpenter Street, and the Sunday Market as the top picks to discover local handicrafts and souvenirs. Nature-enthusiasts won’t want to miss out on a visit to the nearby Bako National Park, with its incredible mix of rainforests, wildlife, and beaches. 

    Iloilo, Philippines (Average room rate: USD50 or PHP2,814)

    Thanks to its central geographical location, Iloilo is often referred to as ‘The Heart of the Country’. The description is fitting thanks to more than just the central location: The nearby group of islands called ‘Islas de Gigantes’ is sure to steal any visitor’s heart. Stunning beaches, hidden lagoons, and the freshest seafood lie in store. Because of its many historical landmarks, Iloilo is also a popular destination among history buffs. And all this is just a ferry ride away from Bacolod.

    Bengaluru, India (Average room rate: USD55 or PHP3,096)

    Bengaluru, the ‘Silicon Valley of India’, is more than a rising technology hub. It’s a place where old-world charm and modernity meet. A place to experience both India’s past and future. While the city’s innovative spirit influences the local culture, there’s plenty of history worth visiting for. Like the majestic Bangalore Palace or the 16th century Nandi Temple. Another reason to put Bengaluru high on the must-visit list, is the renowned culinary scene with an abundance of South Indian delicacies. 

    Narita, Japan (Average room rate: USD71 or PHP3,996)

    The first thing that comes to mind for international travelers when thinking of Narita is likely the famous Narita International Airport, the gateway to Tokyo. But Narita, a city in Japan’s Chiba Prefecture, has a lot more to offer than connectivity. In fact, Narita offers many of the quintessential elements Japan is so famous for, like the Shinshoji Temple, the traditional Naritasan Omotesando Road, and the seasonal beauty of cherry blossoms, making the city worth visiting whether there’s a flight to catch or not. 

    Kaohsiung, Taiwan (Average room rate: USD101 or PHP5,684)

    Taiwan’s second biggest city, Kaohsiung, shouldn’t be left out on a Taiwan itinerary. The city is easily accessible thanks to its international airport and high-speed rail connection to Taipei and Taoyuan. Once there, the city’s Yancheng District is the place to go.  It’s a great place to stroll and take in the abundance of street art, and to enjoy some shopping in the warehouses on the pier. Planning a trip to Kaohsiung? Keep an eye out for the line-up in the ‘Big Egg’, the Kaohsiung Arena, which can host nearly 85,000 attendees and recently hosted international superstars like Coldplay and Blackpink. 

    In addition to picking the most affordable destinations, Agoda helps travelers get the biggest bang for their buck by offering great value deals on accommodations, flights, and activities, helping people see the world for less.

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  • Top 9 nature destinations in Asia according to Agoda

    Top 9 nature destinations in Asia according to Agoda

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    To mark the launch of Eco Deals 2024, Agoda’s flagship USD1 million partnership with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), the digital travel platform has compiled a list of some of Asia’s favored nature destinations across Asia, based on searches made on Agoda in January 2024.

    Enric Casals, vice president of Southeast Asia, Agoda, shared, “I’m incredibly proud and excited that with this third edition of Eco Deals, Agoda pledges to donate up to one million US dollars to WWF’s diverse conservation projects across Southeast Asia. The Eco Deals program helps travelers ‘give back’ to protect for future generations some of the wonders that the world has to offer.”

    To enthuse travelers about the unique and remarkable beauty to explore throughout Asia Pacific, Agoda looked at some of the top nature destinations across nine markets to come up with ideas to reconnect with nature through ancient forests, deep valleys, and serene lakes. 

    Gently experience these great destinations:

    The Queen of Hill Stations in India

    Ooty, India

    Ooty, also known as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations,’ is nestled within the Nilgiri Hills, which form part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is India’s largest protected forest area and boasts a picturesque town with beautiful lakes and gardens. Ooty is a serene haven for nature enthusiasts who enjoy boating, safaris, and hiking, making it a perfect getaway to experience India’s natural beauty.

    Lombok, Indonesia

    Mount Rinjani-Lombok UNESCO Global Geopark in Indonesia features diverse landscapes, including savannahs and tropical forests shaped by volcanic rocks. Standing at 3,726 meters, Mount Rinjani offers a breathtaking view from the summit. Segara Anak Lake, within Rinjani’s caldera, provides tranquil beauty, attracting Hindu pilgrims for rituals. Explore Rinjani-Lombok for adventure, wonder, and unforgettable memories.

    Cambugahay Falls in Siquijor

    Siquijor Island, Philippines

    Siquijor, known as the ‘Mystical Island of Central Visayas,’ charms visitors with captivating mountain vistas and waterfalls. Mount Bandilaan, the island’s highest peak, showcases indigenous flora and over 100 butterfly species during hikes. The enchanting Cambugahay Falls, nestled in a lush rainforest, is said to have restorative powers, providing a serene escape from urban life.

    Miri, Malaysia

    Miri serves as the gate to the UNESCO-listed Gunung Mulu National Park, home to rainforests, rich wildlife, and vast caves including the Sarawak Chamber, the world’s largest cave chamber by area. Here, visitors can explore karst formations, trek Mount Api for spectacular pinnacle vistas, and marvel at bat exoduses in Deer Cave, all through adventurous trails and boat tours.

    Hakone Shrine in Japan

    Hakone, Japan

    Hakone, a premier Japanese tourist destination, offers breathtaking scenery and a deep-rooted history. Surrounded by mountains, this place is famous for its seasonal beauty, hot springs, and cultural attractions like Lake Ashi and the Hakone Shrine. Easy accessibility to Mount Fuji, diverse dining options, and unique souvenirs further add to its charm, attracting visitors from around the globe. 

    Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea

    Jeongseon County in Gangwon Province, known for its serene mountain scenery, is an escape into nature. It features seasonal outdoor activities, including winter hikes on Hambaeksan to autumn exploration of Gariwangsan. Adventurous visitors can enjoy the exhilarating Byeongbangchi Skywalk, providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Discover the natural beauty of Auraji through recreational pursuits like rafting, making it a must-do during your visit.

    Hualien, Taiwan

    Hualien, on Taiwan’s east coast, offers stunning landscapes, cultural richness, and outdoor adventures. Taroko National Park, a key landmark, is home to dramatic marble cliffs, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers, with hiking trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints, waterfalls, and mountain temples. Home to diverse wildlife, the park provides an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

    Khao Yai National Park in Thailand

    Khao Yai, Thailand

    Khao Yai, which literally translates to ‘big mountain’ in Thai, is a peaceful nature retreat near Bangkok that features the nation’s first UNESCO-recognized national park. With sprawling rainforests, famous waterfalls like Haew Narok and Haew Suwat, and diverse wildlife including wild elephants and even the Asian black bear, it’s perfect for activities like hiking, safaris, and stargazing, offering visitors an intimate encounter with Asia’s wilderness.

    Dalat, Vietnam

    Nestled a short flight from bustling Ho Chi Minh City, Dalat offers a nature lover’s paradise with cool weather, pine forests, and waterfalls. It’s ideal for hiking, lake activities like canyoning, and enjoying local gardens. The surroundings offer enchanting scenery, making Dalat an unforgettable retreat for nature enthusiasts from around the globe.

    Since the launch on 3 March 2024, World Wildlife Day, anyone traveling to Southeast Asia can book Eco Deals on Agoda. For every Eco Deals booking, a dollar is donated to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) conservation projects aimed at protecting wildlife and conserving critical habitats in Southeast Asia. In addition, travelers can benefit from a discount of up to 15%. More information can be found at www.agoda.com/ecodeals. 

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