Thailand’s Rayong, Indonesia’s Kalegowa, Vietnam’s Nha Trang, the Philippines’ Boracay Island, and Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur are among nine top destinations in Asia for “slow travel,” according to travel platform Agoda.
Rayong, a coastal city on the eastern shore of the Gulf of Thailand, ranked first.
“Rayong’s unhurried pace and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for travelers looking to recharge and reconnect with nature,” Agoda said.
Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood straight from local fishing boats, explore nearby islands such as Koh Samet, or simply relax under the shade of palm trees.
Kalegowa, known for its lush rice fields, traditional Bugis architecture, and warm hospitality, ranked second.
Agoda recommends taking time to explore local markets, savor authentic Indonesian cuisine, or embark on leisurely treks along scenic trails.
Vietnam’s central coastal city of Nha Trang placed fifth.
“Nha Trang’s laid-back vibe makes it an ideal spot for slow travel,” Agoda said.
Beyond its beaches, visitors can explore the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers or indulge in rejuvenating mud baths.
Boracay, a tiny island spanning seven kilometers located approximately 300 kilometers south of Manila in the Philippines, secured the sixth position.
Famous for its pristine beaches, Boracay boasts powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunsets.
The high season runs from March to May, aligning with the Philippines’ summer months, which makes it a premier beach getaway for residents.
Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur ranked eighth.
Agoda recommends discovering various districts, ranging from the vibrant lanes of Little India to the busy bazaars of Chinatown.
This urban center boasts iconic structures such as the Petronas Twin Towers and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building.
Food lovers can enjoy leisurely meals at hawker stalls or upscale restaurants, sampling dishes such as nasi lemak and char kway teow.
The rankings were determined by calculating the mean duration of stays from reservations made on Agoda during the period spanning January through March 2025.
Globetrotting at a leisurely pace, where one delves deeply into a location over an elongated period to truly absorb the cultural nuances like a resident, has seen a surge in appeal recently, particularly following the onset of the pandemic.
