This is part of our global guide to the best places to go in 2024 – find more travel inspiration here.
The Best Places to Go in Asia in 2024
Singapore
Go for: Forest trails; new luxury stays; and Taylor Swift devotees
Even by Singapore’s hyperkinetic standards, 2024 is shaping up to be an unusually vibrant year. March will usher in devoted Taylor Swift fans to the National Stadium in Kallang, as the popstar lights up the waterfront venue in her sole South East Asian stop on her record-shattering The Eras Tour. Hotel bookings have reportedly surged in anticipation, right on the heels of high-profile openings in 2023, including the much-anticipated Mondrian Singapore Duxton near Chinatown.
Singapore is also adding exciting features to its impressive green spaces. At Gardens by the Bay, the country’s landscaping masterpiece, the longest sculpture in the world – a 192-metre parade depicting 60 endangered animals cast in bronze – is on display until May. Cycling paths are coming to 10 additional neighbourhoods, linking to the city’s extensive green network.
South and Central Sri Lanka
Go for: Wellness retreats; a new food festival; and a 300km nature trail
Rising from economic uncertainty, Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is experiencing a luxury and wellness boom. New luxury resorts, such as Kayaam House and Ahu Bay, are enticing visitors. The country is set to host the Galle Literary Festival and a new food festival spotlighting 12 chefs over a 12-week period in early 2024.
Inland, the development of the Pekoe Trail, a new 300km network of hiking routes, continues, providing a fantastic way to experience Sri Lanka’s lush hill country.
Da Nang, Vietnam
Go for: Nature reserves; central Vietnamese cuisine; and the firework festival
Da Nang is emerging as a top destination, witnessing a surge in international arrivals thanks to new flight routes. The Da Nang International Fireworks Festival in June attracts numerous visitors, while the city’s natural attractions and cuisine add to its appeal.
Kochi, India
Go for: Sustainable initiatives; stunning waterways; and local festivals
Kochi’s waterways have lured visitors for centuries. The introduction of a solar-powered water metro system, alongside Kerala’s efforts to improve infrastructure and promote local festivals, shows a bright future for sustainable tourism enrich entire areas.
Kathmandu Valley, Nepal
Go for: Lesser-known walking trails; new vantage points; and the international folk festival
Kathmandu Valley’s status as Nepal’s cultural hub will be revived with various events in 2024, including the International Folk Festival and the Film Southasia documentary festival, encouraging visitors to explore new walking trails and local culture.
The Silk Road, Uzbekistan
Go for: the ancient charm of the Silk Road charging into the future with new high-speed rail routes
Uzbekistan’s renewed interest in the Silk Road is evident with new high-speed rail networks. Cities like Samarkand and Bukhara are witnessing a revival of tourism focused on their rich history and cultural heritage.
Kobe, Japan
Go for: New creative spaces; Japanese design; and hip hotels
Kobe is enhancing its design credentials with new creative spaces and a burgeoning hospitality scene, showcasing contemporary Japanese design and local culture.
Bangkok (Chinatown), Thailand
Go for: A culinary renaissance in one of the world’s biggest Chinatowns
Chinatown in Bangkok remains a culinary hotspot, with new restaurants and bars breathing fresh life into the historic area. Expect a vibrant food scene and a mix of new and traditional flavours in 2024.
Mongolia
Go for: Visa-free entry; off-beat cultural experiences; and unscripted adventure
Mongolia is expanding its tourism offerings with new luxury lodges and cultural tours. The visa-free travel initiative has also opened doors to diverse explorers, aiming for one million tourists annually.
Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
Go for: Exhilarating adventure sports; unexpected accommodation options; and the novelty of mountains in the Middle East
Ras Al Khaimah is establishing itself as a global adventure tourism hub, with numerous new luxury properties and exciting outdoor activities, making it a must-visit in the UAE.
Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
Go for: Bragging rights; pristine nature; and a new take on sustainability
The Red Sea aims to develop into a leading sustainable tourism destination while maintaining its natural beauty. Projects here will balance luxury with environmental awareness, providing unique experiences in 2024.
