The Indonesian resort island of Bali has won the Best Island title from the influential Singapore-based travel website DestinAsian in its recent Readers Choice Award 2017 (RCA).
This was the twelfth consecutive title the island received from the media. In addition to Bali, which took the highest spot, the neighboring island of Lombok was also among the many top 10 islands on the planet in response to DestinAsian readers.
In second place was the island of Phuket in southern Thailand, the island of Samui took fourth place and Phi Phi eighth. Malaysia’s top ten includes two islands; Langkawi and Penang.
The 10 best islands within the Asia-Pacific region in response to the publication’s readers are:
- Bali;
- Phuket;
- Maldives;
- Samui;
- Boracay;
- Palawan;
- Langkawi;
- Phi Phi;
- Penang;
- Lombok.
In other categories, Bali also dominated the rankings.
DestinAsian readers voted Alila Villas Uluwatu the most effective boutique hotel, followed by COMO Uma Ubud in fifth place.
The title of Best Spa Hotel went to Ayana Spa in Jimbaran, and third place went to The Spa, Four Seasons Resort Bali in Jimbaran Bay.
Meanwhile, Indonesia’s flag carrier, Garuda Indonesia Airlines, took third place within the Best Economy Class category and fifth place within the Best Airline and Best Frequent Flyer Program categories.
Singapore Airlines was named the most effective airline within the Asia-Pacific region, followed by Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways, Thai Airways International and Garuda Indonesia.
Commenting on Indonesia’s success within the annual awards, Tourism Minister Arief Yahya said: “Achievements made in international forums (will construct) Indonesian tourism, trust and credibility.”
He added: “We constantly strive to achieve the highest global reputation to make the Wonderful Indonesia brand shine in every competition.”
Deputy for International Market Development on the Ministry of Tourism I Gede Pitana expressed his pride that the world continues to understand Bali because the Best Island within the World.
“Bali has been captivating tourists from all over the world for centuries with its hospitable people, art and culture, wonderful nature, culinary richness and beautiful beaches,” he said.
This article was first published on TTRweekly.com February 23.
