Top 10 Emerging Asian Destinations: Kaohsiung & Kenting Make the List

▲ Kaohsiung’s LOVE landmark. (Photo / Provided by Kaohsiung Tourism)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Taiwan Shines Again: Following extensive coverage by CNN, Kaohsiung has once again been recognized by a leading global hotel booking site as one of the “Top 10 Emerging Asian Destinations” for 2014. Even more exciting, Taiwan’s southern gem Kenting has also made the list, showcasing the warmth and appeal of Southern Taiwan to travelers worldwide. Other featured destinations include Okinawa and Osaka in Japan, Lombok in Indonesia, and Chiang Rai in Thailand.

▲ Kenting boasts pristine beaches and a wide range of water activities. (Photo / Provided by Husta)

▲ Kaohsiung MRT Formosa Boulevard Station (left) and Jinzuan Night Market (right). (Photo / Reporter Tsai Wen-jun; sourced fromKaohsiung Night Market - Kaohsiung Jinzuan Night Market Facebook fan page)

Kaohsiung recently appeared on CNN’s travel show “CNNGO,” where locals took viewers through hidden alleys and iconic sights of the city. In just 30 minutes, CNNGO captured heartwarming scenes that would “make you fall in love with Kaohsiung” and listed “10 Reasons to Love Kaohsiung.” Its pleasant climate, night market delicacies, and the unique warmth of Southern Taiwan have won over international visitors — key reasons why Kaohsiung has secured a spot in Agoda.com’s 2014 ranking of the “Top 10 Emerging Asian Destinations.”

Agoda.com describes Kenting as a destination rich in outdoor activities. In addition to its famous water sports and surfing, the area is popular for hiking, camping, cave exploration, and hot springs. It also hosts the annual “Spring Scream” music festival.

The ranking of Asia’s Top 10 Emerging Destinations is based on global hotel search data from Agoda.com. Last year, Taiwan’s Nantou was featured, and Hualien has also appeared on the list before. This year marks the first time Taiwan has had two destinations simultaneously ranked. Alongside Kaohsiung and Kenting, the other eight emerging destinations are Okinawa and Osaka in Japan, Mandalay in Myanmar, Lombok in Indonesia, Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia, Chiang Rai in Thailand, Da Nang in Vietnam, and Perth in Australia.