Three Vietnamese destinations ranked among Southeast Asia's top 15

Ha Long Bay, Hoi An ancient town, and Sa Pa are featured in a list of 15 prominent Southeast Asian destinations compiled by Gulf News.

Gulf News, a leading English-language daily newspaper in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has selected 15 top destinations in Southeast Asia as recommendations for tourists from the Middle East.

Vietnam boasts three destinations on the list: Ha Long Bay, Hoi An ancient town, and Sa Pa. The Philippines also claims three spots with Cebu, Palawan, and Bicol. Thailand is represented by Bangkok and Chiang Mai. The remaining countries in the region each contribute one destination.

Ha Long Bay, a World Natural Heritage site, is described as having a "surreal" seascape with limestone karsts and emerald waters. Visitors are encouraged to experience boat tours and kayaking.

Hoi An ancient town is a popular destination for international tourists. Photo: Dac Thanh

Hoi An ancient town is a popular destination for international tourists. Photo: Dac Thanh

Hoi An ancient town is a charming riverside town, adorned with colorful lanterns each evening. It offers high-quality, quick tailoring services and boasts a diverse street food scene. The town's architecture, a blend of Asian and French influences, is well-preserved.

Sa Pa, Vietnam's other featured destination, is known for its terraced rice fields and the rich culture of its ethnic minority groups. Sa Pa is ideal for tourists seeking cool mountain air, cultural exploration, and trekking adventures with panoramic views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range.

The Middle Eastern newspaper describes Southeast Asia as a land of mystical stories, diverse landscapes, and delicious food. "From mystical mountains to bustling markets, every charming corner promises unforgettable journeys," Gulf News writes.

The 15 selected Southeast Asian destinations are:

1. Bangkok (Thailand)

2. Singapore

3. Ha Long Bay (Vietnam)

4. Bali (Indonesia)

5. Palawan (Philippines)

6. George Town, Penang (Malaysia)

7. Siem Reap, Angkor Wat (Cambodia)

8. Hoi An (Vietnam)

9. Chiang Mai (Thailand)

10. Cebu (Philippines)

11. Luang Prabang (Laos)