A new chart has placed a bustling Asian city on top of the global tourism ladder, not to mention 14 others that made it to the list.
Hong Kong has topped 99 other countries in the list of "Top 100 Destination Cities of 2018," as concluded by the Euromonitor International 2018 report. In total, 15 Asian destinations also made a name in the chart.
According to Entrepreneur, China's Hong Kong bested other Asian countries to bag the top performer title. Data provided by the Euromonitor reveal that Hong Kong saw a 7 percent hike in tourist visits in 2018. Over 29,000 tourists chose the city as their travel destination.
Bangkok, Thailand runs close with a 5 percent growth, with Singapore, Macau and Kuala Lumpur placing second, third, and fourth respectively. Other Asian cities also have their places in the top 100 list including the Japanese cities of Chiba and Osaka. Indian tourist spots Mumbai and Delhi also saw significant annual growth.
Tourism analysts believed there are key aspects that make Hong Kong a suitable choice for travelers, whether individual trips or in groups. One of these reasons is the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong rail link that allows tourists to save time in roaming around China's metros.
Another boost is expected in the coming months as international musician Ed Sheeran makes his way into Chinese stages by April. Coconuts Hong Kong reports that the "Thinking Out Loud" singer will be performing in HK Disneyland's Fantasy Road Outdoor Venue on April 17 and 18.
Sheeran's arrival is presumed to attract fans from neighboring Asian countries, especially after fans went in a frenzy after he canceled his scheduled appearance in 2017. While Hong Kong is used to big crowds and busy streets, the "Perfect" lyricist's 2-night shows are expected to boost sales in the main venue and nearby establishments as well.
Some of Hong Kong's most popular spots are the Victoria Harbor, Victoria Peak, and Tsim Sha Tsui, where night owls can roam around busy shops even during late in the evening. The city's tourism board also lists the Ladies' Market as one of its main attractions. It boasts of a long street-market that displays various items for women.
Adventurous travelers are encouraged to take at least one ride at Hong Kong's Ocean Park that sports a couple of thrill rides. The site also shows giant pandas in action.
Finally, travel buddies who prefer quiet streets and a laid-back environment by the sea can have a stroll around Stanley Market.
