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WHETHER celebrating New Year, Christmas, school holidays, or just spending a day off at work, tourism around the world skyrockets in the last ten days at the end of the year. To help travelers find the best deals, Agoda reveals the cheapest destinations later this year across Asia-Pacific.
Agoda analyzed average room prices in various tourist destinations between 22-31 December 2023 to find the best deals and most competitive prices. In Indonesia, Yogyakarta is the most affordable tourist destination, with an average room rate of IDR861 thousand.
For the Asia-Pacific region, the destination with the lowest average accommodation rates is Hat Yai in Thailand. Next in line are Yogyakarta in Indonesia, Kuching in Malaysia, Dalat in Vietnam, Goa in India, Baguio in the Philippines, Nagoya in Japan, Taichung in Taiwan, Melbourne in Australia, and Busan in South Korea. Average room prices vary from IDR661 thousand in Hat Yai to IDR2.5 million in Busan.
“2023 sees a huge revival in travel across Asia as people reconnect with friends, family and loved ones, and this special year-end holiday period is unlikely to be much different,” said Gede Gunawan, Indonesia Country Director, Agoda.
But whether you’re going on an adventure alone or making memories with loved ones, traveling during the holiday season means higher demand, so there’s a difference in finding special deals. “By highlighting tourist destinations with the most affordable average accommodation rates, Agoda helps travelers, whatever their budget, celebrate the end of the year in style,” he said.
Despite being the lowest priced tourist destinations, these researched locations have a lot to offer visitors and each is a great place to spend the final days of 2023.
From bustling beaches and exhilarating theme parks, to spiritual shrines and foodie paradises. The following are some interesting things from the ten most affordable destinations:
1. Hat Yai, Thailand (Average room rate: IDR661 thousand)
Hat Yai is home to trendy coffee shops and a lively nightlife. This city in the southern part of Thailand is also famous for its delicious local cuisine and seafood dishes. Hat Yai is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding countryside, visiting the stunning waterfalls at Ton Nga Chang Wildlife Reserve, or enjoying traditional Thai culture in Songkhla Old Town.
Planning a visit in December? Be sure to bring your Christmas spirit, as Hat Yai is home to a variety of events and festive decorations throughout the month. Visit the Central Festival Hat Yai shopping center to see the giant Christmas tree and enjoy the Christmas lights display. You can also visit Kim Yong Market to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
2. Yogyakarta, Indonesia (Average room rate: IDR861 thousand)
Yogyakarta, often nicknamed the “Cultural Heart of Java”, is a charming December holiday destination, steeped in Javanese culture and fascinating historical sites, including the Yogyakarta Palace, the Sultan’s iconic palace. This rich cultural heritage blends perfectly with its diverse population. Explore beautifully decorated churches and witness local Christmas traditions that showcase harmony between diverse cultures.
For a peaceful end to the year, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, namely the ancient temples at Prambanan. Or drive 25 km north to Kaliurang, where tranquil moments await you against the stunning backdrop of Mount Merapi. If you like the excitement of New Year’s Eve, don’t miss Alun-Alun Kidul for the Yogyakarta Night Festival, where a dazzling fireworks display will turn the night into magic.
3. Kuching, Malaysia (Average room rate: IDR922 thousand)
Kuching, the delightful capital of Sarawak, is famous for its bustling markets, delicious street food, stunning natural views, and historical attractions such as the Sarawak Cultural Village. This is the perfect family vacation spot to enjoy nature and make the most of your extra day off.
In December, Kuching turns into a festive wonderland with colorful lights and decorations. Take a stroll along the beautiful Kuching Waterfront or join Kuching’s annual Christmas parade for some festive fun.
Don’t miss the iconic Padungan Roundabout Cat Statue which never fails to entertain. Locals and visitors flock to lively Carpenter Street, where the lively nighttime atmosphere adds to the excitement of New Year’s Eve.
4. Dalat, Vietnam (Average room rate: IDR1.1 million)
The charming mountain town of Dalat is a popular tourist destination all year round, but is especially worth visiting during the Christmas and New Year seasons. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights, festive decorations and a fun atmosphere.
The cool weather is ideal for exploring the city’s highlights, such as the Crazy House, Xuan Huong Lake and the flower-filled Valley of Love. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a festive celebration, Dalat, Vietnam is a great place to visit for Christmas and New Year.
5. Goa, India (Average room rate: IDR1.42 million)
Goa, India’s party paradise, is known for its clean beaches, bustling nightlife, vibrant markets and tempting seafood dishes. Often forgotten, this state also offers a quiet side full of hidden gems, making it an ideal place for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
This year, pack your bags and fly out to experience stunning Goa. Enjoy the beauty of natural life at Dudhasagar Falls or visit Artjuna cafe for immersive workshops, live music and yoga sessions. Lose yourself at the Bonderam festival and celebrate New Year’s Eve in local style; or take a ferry to Divar island for a relaxing day visiting historic churches and eating local cuisine.
6. Baguio, Philippines (Average room rate: IDR1.5 million)
Baguio’s cool and fresh air sets it apart from other tropical countries, earning it the nickname ‘Summer Capital of the Philippines’. But don’t get me wrong: Baguio and its many beautiful offerings are a year-round tourist destination. Enjoy views of the pine trees as you roam the landscape to visit perennial tourist favorites like Mines View Park and Camp John Hay.
Baguio also has a heritage of handicrafts and folk arts that recently won the UNESCO Creative City award. The city also has the Baquio Night Market where you can find the best vintage items.
Don’t forget to enjoy the strawberries that grow abundantly in the city’s unique topography. From celebrating Christmas morning with strawberry taho (a typical Pinoy snack consisting of soft tofu, syrup and tiny pearls called sago) to welcoming the new year with a strawberry wine toast with your loved ones, this holiday in the highlands will be one to remember forever forgotten by the whole family.
7. Nagoya, Japan (Average room rate: IDR1.7 million)
Nagoya, Japan’s fourth largest city, is a dynamic and cosmopolitan destination that has something for everyone. During the Christmas and New Year season, the city comes alive with festival lights, special events and a festive atmosphere.
Nagoya is famous for its stunning winter light, some of the best in Japan. The city’s main streets and parks are transformed into a magical winter wonderland with millions of twinkling lights, such as the Nabana no Sato botanical garden and the sparkling districts of Sakae and Osu.
8. Taichung, Taiwan (Average room rate: IDR1.8 million)
Taichung not only has a rich historical and cultural heritage, but is also filled with stunning natural beauty. Famous for its wide variety of tourist attractions and activities, Taichung meets all the needs of tourists, whether they enjoy exploring cultural heritage, enjoying delicious food, or pampering themselves with natural wonders.
Additionally, Taichung will host the Lishan Guguan Light Arts Festival this December, which will showcase dazzling light arts throughout the month. In addition to the spectacular light show, the festival also features various musical performances and events, providing a festive atmosphere throughout the celebrations. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the illuminated works of art while enjoying live music performances or taking part in dance performances and art workshops.
9. Melbourne, Australia (Average room rate: IDR2.4 million)
Melbourne has long been called Australia’s ‘Cultural Jewel’ with its vibrant arts scene, lively sporting events, world-famous artisan coffee and glamorous nightlife. During the Christmas season and school holidays, this coastal town comes alive with a variety of family-friendly activities. From Christmas markets to world-class sporting events such as the Australian Open tennis tournament, Melbourne has something for every budget.
With the fourth largest tram system in the world, Melbourne is a great destination to explore on foot. Whether it’s beautiful beaches you’re looking for or just wanting to get lost in bustling Federation Square, there’s always something going on in vibrant Melbourne.
10. Busan, South Korea (Average room rate: IDR2.5 million)
Busan is a coastal destination that lives up to its name, with a combination of beautiful beaches, modern skyscrapers, traditional markets and cozy cafe alleys. For a rare opportunity to see the city’s diverse views at one glance, you can visit Busan If you prefer a quieter experience, take a stroll along Dalmaji-gil Street, which is lined with small, charming cafes with beautiful views of the blue ocean.
Want to witness a unique winter lights festival by the sea? Gwangalli Beach hosts the Gwangalli Marvelous Drone Light Show, a weekly spectacular shows every Saturday featuring a number of stunning drone lights spread across the clear winter night sky.
In addition to helping travelers choose the most affordable destinations, Agoda helps travelers get the best deals for their budget through features like Price Freeze, Price Alerts, shopping cart discounts, social media deals, and more, which help people see world at more affordable prices. [sources/photo special]
