0
0
Every year, the travel platform Booking.com analyzes where there are a vast number of accommodations with so-called Traveler Review Awards. This in-house award is given for exceptional hospitality, and Booking uses it to create a ranking of the most hospitable places in the world.
To arrive at its ranking, the travel platform evaluates which providers on the platform consistently receive excellent customer reviews from vacationers and are praised for their outstanding service. The categories analyzed include accommodations, car rental companies, and taxi drivers.
From coffee farms to pristine beaches, medieval retreats, and jungle cities, a wide variety of destinations made it into the top ten in 2025. And that’s precisely what makes this list so charming: with one or two exceptions, these are destinations that are still completely “under the radar.”
Sigiriya, Sri Lanka: This is a volcanic monolith on which a fortress has been built. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important historical buildings in Sri Lanka. Booking also suggests that travelers visit the nearby village, which is known for its fabrics and handicrafts, including batik fabrics, decorative pots, and hand-woven textiles.
Cazorla, Spain: This small town is picturesquely situated in the mountains in the south of the Spanish province of Jaén. It is officially a “Conjunto histórico-artístico,” which is a historically and artistically significant place in Spain.
Urubici, Brazil: This town is located far to the south of this vast country and is best known for its picturesque nature and diverse flora and fauna.
Taupo, New Zealand: Located on New Zealand’s North Island, Taupo is considered a hotspot for all outdoor and active travelers. Rivers, valleys, and hot springs crisscross vast landscapes. There are numerous hiking and biking trails.
St. Augustine, USA: This coastal city in Florida is considered one of the oldest cities in the US and charms visitors with its well-preserved colonial architecture.
Orvieto, Italy: This small town in southern Umbria impresses with its beautiful location and magnificent architecture. In the Middle Ages, Orvieto was even the residence of the Pope for a time. “The family-run trattorias offering local specialities such as wild boar ragù and Orvieto Classico wine will not disappoint you,” promises Booking.
Manizales, Colombia: The municipality is surrounded by the cities of Medellín and Bogotá, which are very popular with tourists, and the town of Salento. Manizales is often overlooked, even though the city is considered one of the most important places when it comes to coffee cultivation in Colombia.
Quedlinburg, Germany: Quedlinburg not only seems to be particularly friendly and welcoming to travelers, but also has a lot more to offer. Quedlinburg is the city with the most half-timbered houses in Germany. Just around the corner is the Harz National Park hiking area.
Ko Lanta, Thailand: The tranquil island of Ko Lanta in southern Thailand is a peaceful retreat with its pristine beaches, dense jungle, and relaxed atmosphere, according to reports. The island is less crowded than its more famous counterparts, making it a perfect destination for those seeking tranquillity.
Chester, United Kingdom: A journey into the past: Known for its well-preserved Roman city walls and other valuable remains from Roman times, the city in northwestern England on the border with Wales also attracts visitors with its half-timbered houses and the so-called rows—covered pedestrian passages on the first floor of historic buildings. (red, 1/30/2025)
- source: derstandard.at/picture: pixabay.com
This post has already been read 38 times!
