Top 10 Emerging Travel Cities Globally — Taitung Makes the List

As 2017 draws to a close, a global online travel platform has released its “Top 10 Emerging Travel Cities for 2018.” Ranked by the highest year-on-year growth in bookings over the past year, the list includes destinations such as Sapporo in Japan, Nashville in the U.S., Bucharest in Romania, Brisbane in Australia, and Taitung City in Taiwan. Taitung’s refined slow-living charm and natural scenery have made it an international highlight.

With unspoiled natural mountains and forests, as well as tourism features like hot springs, temples, and marine activities, the diverse appeal of “Taitung, Taiwan” attracts travelers from around the world. (Photo provided by Booking.com)

The global online travel platform Booking.com announced the “Top 10 Emerging Travel Cities for 2018,” based on a survey of travelers who have traveled in the past 12 months or plan to travel within the next 12 months. The 18,509 global respondents selected the most attractive cities. Whether you’re looking for a beach vacation in the sun, a historical and cultural city escape, or a culinary journey to satisfy your taste buds, these emerging travel cities each offer unique features that cater to different traveler needs.

Among them, Taitung City in Taiwan stands out for its slow-living pace and multicultural appeal, captivating global travelers. For those interested in marine activities, Green Island offers opportunities for diving, snorkeling, or beach walks. To sample the freshest local seafood, head to Fugang Fishing Port. Of course, soaking in the famous Zhiben Hot Springs to relax your body and mind or visiting Taitung Night Market to enjoy local delicacies are also great ways to enjoy a holiday in Taitung. These attractions have drawn international attention to this vibrant city, making it one of the Top 10 Emerging Travel Cities for 2018.

%douma?? Authentic Japanese Flavors for a Culinary Journey

Whether you’re heading to Tokyo for nightlife or Kyoto to visit temples, Japan has always been a dream destination for global travelers. In 2018, if you’re looking for a different kind of Japanese experience, the diverse city of Sapporo is the perfect choice. From exploring mountains and enjoying hot springs to dining at restaurants serving a variety of fresh seafood, Sapporo is undoubtedly one of the best travel destinations. According to the latest data from Booking.com, one in ten global travelers plans to embark on a food-focused trip in 2018, and Sapporo is a top pick for foodies, especially for its rich seafood and exquisite cuisine, which are highly recommended by Booking.com users. After a satisfying day of culinary delights, consider staying at the “Yukizuki Ryokan” to extend the perfect day. This traditional Japanese-style guesthouse not only offers an authentic Japanese cultural experience but also provides bicycle rentals for easy city exploration.

The home-like “Yukizuki Ryokan” in Sapporo offers an authentic Japanese cultural experience and even provides bicycle rentals for easy city exploration. (Photo provided by Booking.com)

%dubo?? Amplify Your Senses on a Music Journey

Nashville is famed for its legendary country music and is also a great destination for family trips and outdoor activities. Die-hard music fans visiting here won’t want to miss the chance to pay homage at the Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson museums or to step into city bars to enjoy live music performances full of energy. Additionally, city parks that are accessible by foot or bike are highly praised by nature-loving travelers. Statistics show that 17% of travelers plan to attend concerts or music festivals in 2018, and 36% want to visit destinations they’ve seen on TV. Nashville not only offers captivating live music and country music but also has a TV series named after it. For those looking to explore various music venues, staying at the “SoBro Guest House” is the best choice. It’s just about 320 meters from the Country Music Hall of Fame and less than 11 minutes’ walk from the Bridgestone Arena and the Ryman Auditorium.

Pay homage to the Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson museums or enjoy live music performances in city bars to feel the vibrant energy of “Nashville, USA.” (Photo provided by Booking.com)

%dubo?? Elegant Vibes for a Chic Urban Getaway

Bucharest is a new option for a chic urban getaway, with its elegant cityscape featuring museums, parks, and trendy cafes. The blend of old and new architecture also captivates Booking.com travelers. In summer, renting a small boat to cruise through Cișmigiu Gardens is a delightful experience; in winter, you can cozy up in a comfortable city cafe for a relaxing afternoon. Survey data shows that 41% of travelers plan to take a city break in 2018, and Bucharest’s unique charm is definitely worth experiencing firsthand. Additionally, Bucharest offers many excellent apartment hotels, including “Diana’s Flat Bucharest.” In addition to offering stunning river views, its prime location allows easy walking access to famous attractions such as the Old Town, the Palace of the Parliament, and Cișmigiu Gardens.

%dubo?? Mountain Hiking Adventures for Scenic Beauty and Health

Zakopane’s stunning ski resorts have long been a popular choice for ski holidays, and in recent years, they’ve also attracted more hiking and mountaineering enthusiasts during the summer. Data shows that the popularity of fitness travel continues to rise in 2018, with the number of travelers planning fitness trips doubling compared to 2017. Zakopane’s captivating natural scenery is highly recommended by Booking.com travelers as one of the best destinations for hiking and forest walks. When visiting, consider staying at “Villa Nova” in the Alpine region, a luxurious accommodation with beautiful mountain views, just minutes from the famous Krupówki hiking trail and close to various restaurants and shops that offer great convenience.

%duan?? Refined Slow Living with City Charm and Natural Scenery

Taitung is a city with a relaxed pace of life, whose charm and multiculturalism deeply captivate people. Beyond its unspoiled natural mountains, hot springs, temples, and marine activities, it’s a city that has caught the attention of global travelers. For marine activities, head to Green Island for diving, snorkeling, or beach walks. For the freshest local seafood, visit Fugang Fishing Port. Of course, soaking in the famous Zhiben Hot Springs or visiting Taitung Night Market for local delicacies are great ways to enjoy a Taitung holiday. Additionally, Taitung is known for its comfortable homestays. “HANA Flower Homestay” offers delicious breakfasts, modern rooms, and bicycle rentals, making it easy to explore nearby areas. You can also ask the hospitable hosts for local travel recommendations and inspiration.

%dong?? Sun-Drenched Full Beach Vacation Experience

In 2018, consider planning a trip to Brisbane, Australia’s vibrant and promising metropolitan city, to experience its urban charm and stunning beaches. The city boasts high-quality restaurants, bars, and wineries that impress, while its surrounding beautiful beaches are highly praised by Booking.com travelers. Data shows that half of all travelers plan to go to the beach in 2018, and Brisbane is the top choice for those dreaming of a beach holiday. With a variety of beaches and water activities, it caters to diverse traveler needs. Visitors can surf at Ocean Beach, sunbathe at Shorncliffe Beach, spot dolphins at Redcliffe Beach, or enjoy a beach holiday at smaller spots like Street Beach or Settlement Cove. The “Soho Apartments” on the South Bank are the top choice for a perfect beach holiday, just an eight-minute walk from the beach and featuring an outdoor rooftop pool with 360-degree views of the city.

The “Soho Apartments” in Brisbane’s South Bank are just a short walk from the beach and feature an outdoor rooftop pool offering 360-degree city views. (Photo provided by Booking.com)

%dubo?? Ride the Rails to Experience South American Charm and Rich Coffee

Beautiful Bogotá, the bustling heart of Colombia, is one of the must-visit travel cities in 2018. To truly experience unique South American culture, it’s the perfect destination. Visitors love the newly opened restaurants and boutique hotels in 300-year-old districts, as well as the city’s street art murals and museums. Travelers can choose to take a train to experience the charm of Colombia’s capital and must visit nearby coffee shops for a taste of authentic Colombian coffee. The friendly locals also leave a deep impression on all Booking.com travelers. After a day of exploration, stay at the uniquely charming “Serie 1948” in a quiet neighborhood, where a lovely terrace and garden provide a place to relax, and bike rentals make it easy to explore nearby cafes and eateries.

%dubo?? Portland, the Quirky Rose City, Stands Out

“Keep Portland weird” — just this slogan about Portland is enough to pique anyone’s interest. As Oregon’s largest city, it offers a vibrant nightlife, authentic street food, diverse culture, and outdoor activities. Portland is also a great city to explore by bike, and visitors might want to tour its breweries to discover hidden gems. Nature lovers will also enjoy Portland’s Forest Park and the International Rose Test Garden, earning the city the nickname “City of Roses.” Besides food and dining, Booking.com travelers also recommend the local beer. To visit this unique city, stay at the “Alfred on 9th Avenue Apartments,” a stylish and simple apartment hotel with direct views of downtown Portland and close proximity to the Portland Art Museum and Tom McCall Waterfront Park.

The stylish and simple “Alfred on 9th Avenue Apartments” in Portland offer direct views of the city and are located near many popular attractions. (Photo provided by Booking.com)

%dubo?? Adventure Awaits with a Taste of Latin Cuisine

Before heading to Lima, don’t forget to gear up for some physical activity. The city is packed with adventure activities for its vibrant spirit, from paragliding and parties to sunbathing and surfing, all tempting thrill-seekers to give them a try. The city’s unique vibe is worth spending a few extra days to deeply explore its food, history, and museums. Moreover, Lima is known as the “Gastronomic Capital of Latin America,” and its food and fine cuisine are highly praised by Booking.com travelers. Various food tours and tastings are a great way to get to know Lima. After enjoying the delicious food, stay at the “Rotana Boutique Hotel” by the beach, a homey space that offers comfortable and relaxing accommodation. Guests can also spend their mornings surfing or sunbathing on the nearby beach to start the day right.

%dubo?? A True Reflection of the Urban Jungle

The charm of Hanover lies in its museums, cultural attractions, and the extensive green spaces within the city, such as the Herrenhausen Royal Gardens, Maschsee Lake, and the Eilenriede Forest—the largest urban forest in Europe—all of which are highly recommended attractions by travelers. According to data, 31% of travelers planned an art and culture trip in 2018, and Hanover’s artistic vibe and distinctive cultural offerings make it one of the must-visit destinations for culture enthusiasts. Strolling through Hanover feels like wandering through an urban jungle, and Booking.com travelers especially love the hip and artistic atmosphere of the old town. After a day of cultural exploration, the “Kastens Hotel Luisenhof” is the top choice for accommodation. It not only offers relaxing spa services but also features a fitness center and delicious cuisine to cater to all types of travelers. Moreover, its location is extremely convenient—just a short walk from the Hanover Opera House and just a few minutes’ drive from the Sprengel Museum.

Resembling an urban jungle, “Hanover, Germany,” besides its museums and cultural attractions, also boasts large green spaces that create a vibrant artistic ambiance. (Photo provided by Booking.com)