Any traveller will have heard of the Lonely Planet. It is after all the world’s leading travel media company and it has been one of my must check out guides before I head on a trip somewhere…

Anyway,  Lonely Planet has compiled it’s inaugural Best in Asia list – a collection of the continent’s 10 best destinations to visit over the next 12 months.

For this first-ever Best in Asia list, Lonely Planet’s in-house Asia experts have named increasingly-accessible Hokkaidō, Japan with its “year-round charms” as the number-one destination; while “centre of the universe right now” Shanghai, China is in second place; and “top foodie destination”Jeonju, South Korea comes in at number three.

In compiling the Best in Asia 2016 list, Lonely Planet’s  Asia-expert authors have explored the continent’s most electrifying cities, trekked through steaming jungles and even swum in bountiful seas to seek out the spots you really cannot afford to miss.

Lonely Planet’s Best in Asia 2016

1. Hokkaidō, Japan

“Hokkaidō’s perfect powder snow put it on the international map, but it has also blinded visitors to the year-round charms of Japan’s northernmost island. Hokkaidō has become a lot more accessible this year thanks to the new bullet train linking its southern port city, Hakodate, to Tokyo.”

2. Shànghǎi, China

“Looking for the centre of the universe right now? It’s surely Shànghǎi. This year’s a big one, with the first Disney resort in mainland China opening here, as well as the completion of the long-awaited Shànghǎi Tower, the world’s second tallest building.”

3. Jeonju, South Korea

“Having long flown under the radar as the country’s top foodie destination, Jeonju has finally started to make mouths water further afield. The birthplace of Korea’s most famous dish, bibimbap, now lures a younger crowd thanks to its fast-emerging street food scene.”

4. Con Dao Islands, Vietnam

“This archipelago now ranks among Asia’s hottest emerging destinations. With improved flight connections from Ho Chi Minh City, there is no better place right now to feast on fresh seafood, explore in search of a perfect beach and revel in a castaway vibe.”

5. Hong Kong, China

“Hong Kong is focusing on its natural heritage – specifically, the UNESCO-designated geopark, a 50-sq km region to the northeast. A shuttle bus between the geopark’s Sai Kung town and its ancient rock formations debuted this May, hard on the heels of a ferry service to Lai Chi Wo Village.”

6. Ipoh, Malaysia

“Malaysia’s lesser-known food capital has new flair thanks to a crop of boutique cafes that have sprung up in its historic quarter. At the heart of Ipoh’s renaissance is otherworldly concept hotel Sekeping Kong Heng.”

7. Pemuteran, Indonesia

“A double bay of beaches near Menjangan … don’t wait until everybody arrives; catch the buzz now from this alluring mix of art-filled resorts, inventive new restaurants and the mellowest vibe around.”

8. TrangIslands, Thailand

“Trang Islands pack the same knockout punch as their more famous Andaman Coast neighbours; all they lack are the crowds. Go, now – while these sleepy islands bask in untouched splendour.”

9. Meghalaya, India

“Opportunities for hiking, climbing, caving and rafting abound. After decades off the tourist map, people are starting to notice this backwater. Meghalaya won’t stay this quiet for long; go before thrill seekers storm the Khāsi Hills.”

10. Taitung, Taiwan

“Taitung is Taiwan’s secret wild card. This cradle of indigenous culture is the place to party after harvest with music festivals and sweet millet wine. Or take advantage of this rural county’s superb whale watching, stargazing and cycling.”

Please note: Typhoon Nepartak recently wrecked some havoc; but Best in Asia is a collection of great places for the next 12 months and Taiwan has already begun the recontructing efforts and will be welcoming travellers again soon.

Lonely Planet’s Best in Asia 2016 can be accessed online and don’t forget to check out  www.lonelyplanet.com/best-in-asia  for the chance to win a trip for two to Lonely Planet’s number-one Best in Asia 2016 destination, Hokkaidō, Japan, valued at AUD $10,000. This I am gonna do… so try your luck as well.. never try, never know…

Lonely Planet has always provided inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveller since 1973. The Lonely Planet ecosystem also includes digital and mobile apps, a comprehensive ebook portfolio, 12 international magazines and an award-winning website.

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