Central Highlands makes global debut in Tripadvisor’s 2026 travel rankings
VOV.VN - For the first time, a destination in Vietnam’s Central Highlands has been recognised by Tripadvisor in its 2026 Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best, with Quy Nhon, now part of Gia Lai province, ranking fourth among the world’s 25 Trending Destinations.
The Trending category recognises destinations that have experienced a sharp rise in positive reviews and growing interest from the global travel community over the past 12 months. The Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best distinction represents the platform’s highest honour, awarded to fewer than 1% of the more than eight million listings worldwide.
Beyond celebrating quality and visitor satisfaction, the award also reflects shifting travel preferences and emerging global tourism trends.
Located just about a one-hour flight from Ho Chi Minh City, Quy Nhon has drawn increasing attention for its unspoiled beaches, pristine waters and tranquil atmosphere.
The destination’s appeal lies in the striking interplay between mountains and sea. Ky Co Beach captivates visitors with crystal-clear waters framed by dramatic cliffs. Eo Gio features rugged rock formations embracing a crescent shoreline, while the Ghenh Rang–Tien Sa area offers sweeping coastal landscapes shaped by nature over centuries.
Together, these sites form a vibrant seascape that feels both majestic and intimate, a rare combination increasingly sought after by global travelers.
Beyond relaxing on sandy shores, visitors can dive to explore coral reefs, kayak along the coastline, take speedboats to nearby islets, fish offshore or trek along hillsides overlooking the sea. Many smaller bays remain largely untouched, aligning with the growing “slow travel” movement, where travelers prioritise immersion in nature, privacy and restorative experiences.
In recent years, high-end hotels and resorts have expanded along Quy Nhon’s scenic coastline, designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment. Many properties feature secluded settings, ocean-facing villas, infinity pools merging with the horizon, wellness spas and restaurants highlighting local cuisine.
This balance between natural authenticity and modern comfort has enabled Quy Nhon to preserve its distinctive Central Vietnamese character while meeting rising demand for premium leisure travel.
Quy Nhon’s recognition as one of the world’s trending destinations signals its growing appeal among international visitors. At a time when global travelers increasingly seek emotionally meaningful journeys, deeper connections with nature and a sense of privacy, the coastal city presents itself as an emerging alternative to more established beach hubs in Asia.
The honour also represents a broader opportunity. It not only elevates Quy Nhon’s position on the global tourism map, but also introduces a more diverse image of Vietnam’s Central Highlands and coastal regions - combining dramatic landscapes, cultural richness and high-quality resort experiences.