Patricia CaleonAs the world reopens its doors to travel, Asia-Pacific (APAC) travellers are increasingly seeking out off-the-beaten-path destinations. A recent report made by Skyscanner Horizons reveals a surge in interest for must-visit hidden gems, with many travellers looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in unique cultural experiences.
Also read: 9 Nostalgic Destinations in Asia Pacific Suitable for Every Type of Traveller
Top trending destinations and must-visit hidden gems for APAC travellers
Image credit: superjoseph via Canva Pro
The report analysed search data from January to June 2024 and identified the top 10 trending destinations for APAC travellers, showcasing a significant increase in year-on-year searches.
Securing the top spot: Dayong, China is famous for inspiring the breathtaking landscapes in the Avatar movies, seeing a staggering 852% increase in searches. Dayong serves as the gateway to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, renowned for its majestic mountains and stunning natural beauty.
Next to Dayong is Shillong, India, which is often referred to as the “Scotland of the East,” offering rolling hills, misty mountains, and picturesque waterfalls. With an 821% increase in searches, this northeastern Indian hill station is quickly gaining popularity among travellers.
On the third spot is Sandakan, Malaysia, a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts, providing access to the Orangutan Rehabilitation Center and the diverse ecosystems of the Kinabatangan River. Japan also secures two spots with Saga and Yonago on the list, two underrated cities offering a taste of authentic Japanese culture and experiences away from the tourist hotspots like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
The full list of must-visit hidden gems for APAC travellers
- Dayong, China
- Shillong, India
- Sandakan, Malaysia
- Shimla, India
- Saga, Japan
- Almaty, Kazakhstan
- Yonago, Japan
- Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Baku, Azerbaijan
- Sihanoukville, Cambodia
Also read: 10 Dreamy Destinations in Asia Pacific Perfect for Finding Balance Between Work & Play
As travel restrictions ease and the world becomes more accessible, it is definitely an exciting time to embrace the spirit of adventure and discovering must-visit hidden gems that are not known to many. Explore more off-the-beaten-path destinations that APAC has to offer, and watch how your travel perspective broadens into new horizons.
Featured and Facebook featured image credit (L-R): superjoseph, MriduL Panda, and JuanamariGonzalez via Canva Pro
