Ubud among world's best destinations in 2016

JAKARTA. Ubud in Bali has been named one of the world's top 10 travel destinations, according to a recent survey by travel website TripAdvisor.

The travel planning and booking site revealed the winners of its 2016 Traveler's Choice awards on Tuesday, which were determined based on the quantity and quality of reviews and ratings for hotels, restaurants and attractions in destinations worldwide over a 12-month period.

Ubud, which ranked 10th, has long served as a haven for those seeking an escape from Bali's bustling areas but who still wish to enjoy the island's picturesque villages, rice terraces, art galleries, museums and rejuvenation retreats.

Commenting on the win, Tourism Minister Arief Yahya said, “This is exactly the kind of experience this archipelago is all about. It is more than just a place to visit, but a haven, a source of peacefulness for everyone who is keen to explore it further."

Meanwhile, on the list of top 10 destinations in Asia, Ubud came third behind Siem Reap in Cambodia and Hanoi in Vietnam.

Top 10 travelers’ choice destinations - World:
1. London, United Kingdom
2. Istanbul, Turkey  
3. Marrakech, Morocco  
4. Paris, France
5. Siem Reap, Cambodia
6. Prague, Czech Republic
7. Rome, Italy
8. Hanoi, Vietnam
9. New York City, New York  
10. Ubud, Indonesia  

Top 10 travelers’ choice destinations - Asia:
1. Siem Reap, Cambodia
2. Hanoi, Vietnam
3. Ubud, Indonesia
4. Bangkok, Thailand
5. Hong Kong
6. Tokyo, Japan  
7. Kathmandu, Nepal
8. New Delhi, India  
9. Taipei, Taiwan  
10. Hoi An, Vietnam