DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 has awarded Bali as the Best Island in the Asia-Pacific, reaffirming its status as a world-class travel destination ahead of Maldives, Boracay, Phuket, Phu Quoc, Palawan, Koh Samui, Langkawi, Penang, and Lombok, according to reporting from Jakarta Globe.
Readers of DestinAsian magazine, who have consistently ranked Bali as their favorite island for the past 18 years, praised its pristine beaches, lush rice terraces, world-renowned surf breaks, and deeply spiritual culture. The island’s luxury resorts, scenic coastal landscapes, and vibrant arts scene continue to draw travelers worldwide.
“Our readers have once again chosen Bali as their favorite island destination in the Asia-Pacific region. The Island of the Gods continues to captivate modern travelers with its natural beauty, rich heritage, and luxurious accommodations,” DestinAsian stated.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Puspa personally received the award at the DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 ceremony held at Ayana Resort Hotel Jimbaran on Friday (7/3/25.)
“Thank you for choosing Bali as the Best Island. This recognition shows that Bali remains the top choice for travelers visiting Indonesia,” Ni Luh said in a statement on Saturday (8/3/25.)
She dedicated the award to the people of Bali, local government, and tourism industry players, acknowledging their efforts in preserving the island’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tourism appeal, says Jakarta Globe.
“May this success inspire other destinations across Indonesia to improve their tourism offerings and introduce more of our country’s incredible locations to the world,” she added.
Jakarta Globe reports that the Indonesian government remains committed to developing sustainable and high-quality tourism by engaging local communities, regional governments, and industry stakeholders.
“Let’s work together to enhance and advance Indonesian tourism,” Ni Luh Puspa said.
Other Indonesian Recognitions
Indonesia secured multiple rankings across different categories in the DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2025:
Garuda Indonesia ranked sixth in the Best Airlines category.
Ngurah Rai International Airport (Bali) and Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Jakarta) ranked fourth and fifth respectively in the Best Airports category.
Full Rankings
Best Islands in Asia-Pacific
- Bali, Indonesia
- Maldives
- Boracay, Philippines
- Phuket, Thailand
- Phu Quoc, Vietnam
- Palawan, Philippines
- Koh Samui, Thailand
- Langkawi, Malaysia
- Penang, Malaysia
- Lombok, Indonesia
Best Cities in Asia-Pacific
- Bangkok
- Singapore
- Tokyo
- Ho Chi Minh City
- Kuala Lumpur
- Hong Kong
- Seoul
- Sydney
- Shanghai
- Taipei
Best Airlines
- Singapore Airlines
- Emirates
- Thai Airways
- Qatar Airways
- Malaysia Airlines
- Garuda Indonesia
- Cathay Pacific
- Japan Airlines
- Vietnam Airlines
- Philippine Airlines
Best Airports
- Singapore Changi Airport
- Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok
- Hong Kong International Airport
- Ngurah Rai International Airport, Bali
- Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Jakarta
- Kuala Lumpur International Airport
- Hamad International Airport, Doha
- Haneda Airport, Tokyo
- Incheon International Airport
- Istanbul Airport
Source: Jakarta Globe