Third position went to Da Nang, which represents the best choice for an idyllic coastal escape and gateway to varied experiences.
Da Nang's graceful arc of a coastline is as stunning as it gets, punctuated at the end by the majestic Lady Buddha statue on the Son Tra peninsula. The hotels by the bay recognise this, often maximising room views with large windows, balconies, and infinity pools.
Gazing out onto the endless blue is therapy on its own. Solo travelers on a budget needn't worry about missing out as rooms here average VND1 million, the website wrote.
Elsewhere, the travel guide placed Hanoi at sixth globally, noting the Vietnamese capital is one of the few cities in the region which has remained relatively unchanged by its popularity.
Locals can go about their daily lives with a genuine, unpretentious spirit which keeps Hanoi feeling refreshingly authentic. It is this unvarnished appeal that has won its fans, including from the late Anthony Bourdain, Lonely Planet shared.
Topping the list was Singapore, which is famous for both its magnificent attractions and eye-watering price tag. Others making the list were Penang in Malaysia, Siem Reap in Cambodia, Bangkok in Thailand, and Bali in Indonesia.
The criteria for selecting a destination was based on a low crime rate, safety, affordability, diverse landscapes, an amazing and immediately noticeable culture upon arrival, and cuisine with enticing flavours which offer a sense of daily triumph through delicious dishes.
