In its latest list, the US-based magazine shared that northeast of popular Ha Long Bay in Vietnam lies a more tranquil, less crowded, but just-as-beautiful alternative. Bai Tu Long Bay has the same towering limestone islands and karst formations, caves, hidden coves, and floating fishing villages, but with a quieter, more quaint and intimate feel.

Instead of large-scale cruises, visitors can embark on luxury boutique cruises and smaller boat tours, the article suggested.

Highlights include kayaking and swimming in emerald green waters, and eco-tours that explore the awe-inspiring natural wonders of Bai Tu Long National Park. There are also multi-day excursions that allow tourists to get a closer look into the local culture and daily life in the fishing villages, the magazine wrote.

Bai Tu Long Bay has secured the third spot in the regional ranking. Topping the list is Batanes of the Philippines, followed by Phnom Kulen National Park of Cambodia.

Other seven wonders in Southeast Asia are George Town in Penang of Malaysia, Bolaven Plateau of Laos, Doi Inthanon National Park of Thailand, and Raja Ampat of Indonesia.

CN Traveler suggests Phu Quoc among world's top affordable travel destinations

Condé Nast Traveler ranks Vietnam as one of the most budget-friendly destinations for travel in 2025, with Phu Quoc being highlighted as a must-visit location in the S-shaped country thanks to its pristine beaches and resorts that cannot be found anywhere else.