THAILAND, Indonesia and the Philippines are home to the best beaches in
Asia.
TripAdvisor website recently revealed its annual Travellers Choice Beach
Destinations awards, naming the best beaches around the world based on reviews
by its online community.
181 top beach locations were listed, covering 21 regions including Asia, the
Caribbean, Central America, Europe, the Middle East, South America, South
Pacific, U.K. and the U.S.
In the region, we see an uneven picture as Thailand takes out seven out of
10 spots. Is it suprising? Maybe not.
But even as the Land of Smiles is endowed with colourful corals and
marvelous limestone caves, it is not enough to take top spot. Ko Phi Phi Don
comes close at No. 2, but not quite.
The top prize for best Asian beach destination goes to Boracay.
The Filippinos can be proud because this idyllic beach haven is the only
Asian beach to emerge in TripAdvisor's world top 10 list. Find out where it
stands.
WORLD'S TOP 10
10. Varadero, Cuba
The 21km-long peninsular with powdery sand is lapped by the waters of the
Kawama Channel. TripAdvisor recommends that you try out deep sea fishing while
you are there.
9. Miami Beach, Florida, US
According to TripAdvisor, South Beach is famous among celebrities and models.
But you can literally take your laptop out there to work or just nap all day,
no one really cares.
8. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Punta Cana is known for many of its all-inclusive resorts, making it an
affordable tropical getaway, said TripAdvisor.
7. Cancun, Mexico
Cancun is one out of two top beaches to feature in the Travellers' Choice list.
While it is rather well-known for being a party town for spring-breakers, opt
for resorts located on this beach for better privacy and solitude.
6. Boracay, Philippines
There's more than one good beach for you to choose from. According to
TripAdvisor, Yapak Beach is known for beautiful white shells, while White Beach
has sugary white sand and picture-perfect sunsets; and Balinghai Beach is a
secluded spot perfect for honeymooners.
5. St. Pete Beach, Florida, US
Blessed with golden rays and cushy breezes during spring and summer months, St.
Pete Beach has even attracted dolphins to busk in the sun just off the shore.
4. Negril, Jamaica
The most famous stretch is the Seven Mile Beach. Apparently, nude sunbathers
are welcomed there. So be warned, give them their privacy and do not stare them
up and down if you spot topless chics or grannies at some spots.
3. Tulum, Mexico
Tulum has an air of mystery has the Yucatan beach lies within ancient ruins,
making it an exotic beach destination like no other. Must do: Traditional Mayan
massage.
2. Palm/Eagle Beach, Aruba
Inhabited since 1000, it is a place rich in culture and history. The 32km-long
island can be easily explored by bike or moped. The most popular dive spot is
the Pedernales tanker wreck.
1. Providenciales
What makes this tiny island in the Carribean so popular that is has been named
by travellers as the top beach destination for the second year running? There
are plenty of reasons. TripAdvisor says that families love it for the uncrowded
beaches at Taylor Bay and Grace Bay. Divers go there for pristine waters,
boutiful barrier reef and ocean floor walk. Plus, it's a romantic getaway for
honeymooning couples.
