Indonesia's resort island of Bali has earned the Best Island title awarded by Singapore-based influential travel website DestinAsian through its recent 2017 Readers Choice Award (RCA).
It was the 12th of such a title received by the island from the media consecutively. In addition to Bali taking the top slot, neighbouring island of Lombok was also placed among the top 10 Best islands in the World according to DestinAsian readers.
Phuket island, in South Thailand, came in second with Samui island taking the 4th slot and Phi Phi in eighth place. Malaysia had two island listed in the top 10; Langkawi, and Penang.
The top 10 islands in the Asia-Pacific region as voted by the publication’s readers were:
- Bali;
- Phuket;
- Maldives;
- Samui;
- Boracay;
- Palawan;
- Langkawi;
- Phi Phi;
- Penang;
- Lombok.
In other categories Bali also dominated the placements.
Readers of DestinAsian placed Alila Villas Uluwatu as Best Boutique Hotel followed by COMO Uma Ubud in fifth place.
The title for Best Hotel Spa went to Ayana Spa in Jimbaran, followed by The Spa, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay in third Place.
Meanwhile, Indonesia’s flag carrier, Garuda Indonesia Airlines was placed third in Best Economy Class category and fifth in the category of Best Airline and Best Frequent Flyer Programme.
Singapore Airlines was named top airline in Asia Pacific followed by Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways, Thai Airways International and Garuda Indonesia.
Commenting on Indonesia’s success in the annual awards, Minister of Tourism, Arief Yahya, said: “Achievements made in international forums will (build) Indonesia’s tourism, confidence and credibility.”
He added: “We keep aiming at a top world reputation so that the brand of Wonderful Indonesia will shine in every competition.”
Deputy for International Market Development of the Ministry of Tourism, I Gede Pitana expressed his pride that the world continuously appreciates Bali as the Best Island in the World.
“Bali has for centuries captivated tourists from all over the world through her hospitable people, her arts and culture, wonderful nature, culinary richness, and beautiful beaches”, he said.
This article was first published on TTRweekly.com on Feb 23rd.
