TripAdvisor Reveals 2016 Travelers’ Choice Awards For Islands

TRIPADVISOR HAS announced the winners of its Travelers’ Choice awards for Islands. Award winners were determined using an algorithm that took into account the quantity and quality of reviews and ratings for hotels, restaurants and attractions on islands worldwide, gathered over a 12-month period, as well as traveler booking interest on TripAdvisor.

Nikhil Ganju, Country Manager, TripAdvisor India, said, “With the summer travel season just around the corner, The Travelers’ Choice Islands list offers great options for those planning a tropical getaway, be it in India or abroad. We have also identified what could be some of the great reasons to escape to these award winning islands and what’s more – TripAdvisor’s booking data suggests that travelers can save around 24 per cent if they book their holiday at any of Asia’s top islands during the shoulder season.”

The shoulder season is deemed the least expensive season either right before, or right after the most expensive (peak) season, where travelers can still enjoy great weather, whilst making the most of seasonal discounts.

Indonesian islands are ranked highly on the list, with Bali named the #1 island in Asia and fifth in the world, followed by Lombok and GiliTrawangan, ranked fifth and sixth respectively in Asia. Islands from Thailand also prove to be popular destinations for travelers with Phuket, KoSamui and Koh Tao nabbing top spots on the list. India, Philippines, Malaysia and Japan register presence with one island each in the list.

For those wondering what these islands offer, TripAdvisor has also identified top-rated hotels as well as popular tours, iconic attractions and upcoming events to offer more insights about great things to discover on these award-winning islands.

Top 10 Islands in Asia:

1. Bali, Indonesia – Average nightly rate of all hotels bookable on TripAdvisor in Bali:    INR 6,768

Millions of travelers flock to this popular destination every year for plenty of reasons. Famed for its beautiful beaches, dense jungles and enticing temples, Bali offers something for all types of travelers – the surfers, the adventurers and even those seeking a cultural experience or a rejuvenating respite. For some fun under the sun, travelers can head to the highly-rated amusement and waterpark, Waterbom Bali, and for a serene escapade nestled amidst lush greenery setting, stay the night at Komaneka at Bisma.

Reason to book now: Bali International Dragon Boat Race and Festival on Batur Lake: May 26-29, 2016

2. Phuket, Thailand – Average nightly rate of all hotels bookable on TripAdvisor in Phuket: INR 4,445

A spectacular holiday spotfilled with vibrant sights and sounds, Phuket’s incredible natural attractions offer plenty of reasons for travelers to visit and revisit the island. Beachgoers will be able to enjoy panoramic beaches boasting clear blue waters like Kata Noi beach and NaiHarn beach. Honeymooners looking for an intimate setting can book the award-winning property The Shore at Katathani, boasting private villas and a luxurious spa on top of their renowned warmth and hospitality.

Reason to book now: Baba Wedding Festival, located in the Phuket Old Town: June 2016

3. Ko Samui, Thailand – Average nightly rate of all hotels bookable on TripAdvisor in KoSamui: INR 6,237

Travelers head to idyllic KoSamui every year to unwind and rejuvenate at its picturesque beaches and award-winning resorts offering incredible spas and amenities. Nature lovers will be able to easily spend a whole day exploring the Angthong National Marine Park that provides a breathtaking view of the lagoon and marine life. To complete the experience, travelers can book a night’s stay at the Bo Phut Resort & Spa renowned for their amazing property and exceptional service.

Reason to book now: Samui Regatta, located at Chaweng Beach: May 21-28, 2016

4. Koh Tao, Thailand – Average nightly rate of all hotels bookable on TripAdvisor in Island of Koh Tao: INR 4,711

Nestled on the western shore of the Gulf of Thailand, palm-lined Koh Tao takes its name from the abundant sea turtles that can be found on its shores. With plenty of stunning beaches offering kilometres of soft sand and crystal waters such as AoTanot beach, travelers can look forward to a vacation of lounging under the sun in an idyllic paradise. To complete the perfect island holiday, travelers can book their accommodation at the award-winning The Place Luxury Boutique Villas, a luxury property boasting nine villas with private infinity pools, perfect for those seeking privacy and serenity.

Reason to book now: Save Koh Tao Festival, located at the Sairee: June18-19, 2016

5. Lombok, Indonesia – Averagenightly rate of all hotels bookable on TripAdvisor in Lombok: INR 5,640

Near the more popular Bali, Lombok is a gem with many natural attractions to behold – tranquil diving spots, picture-perfect waterfalls and even rugged hiking trails leading up to volcanoes with crater lakes. One of the highly recommended activities is to follow the trekking trail towards the magnificent SendangGile and Tiu Kelep Waterfall, where travelers can enjoy a refreshing dip at Tiu Kelep. Travelers looking for the best offerings in a small and intimate property can book their stay at The Lombok Lodge.

Reason to book now: Senggigi Festival held across the island: July 5-8, 2016

6. GiliTrawangan, Indonesia – Average nightly rate of all hotels bookable on TripAdvisor in Gili Trawangan: INR 6,303

The largest of the three Gili islands, GiliTrawanganis a paradise for travelers looking for the ideal snorkelling or diving spots. A tropical retreat for travelers of all budgets, the island not only offers luxury hotels and fancy restaurants, but also trendy guesthouses and local ‘warungs’ (food stalls usually selling local delicacies). Travelers can hit one of the many dive schools including the award-winning Manta Dive. After spending the day in the sea, head to DesaDunia Beda and choose one of the Javanese-style villas to spend the night.

Reason to book now: Festival Gili Indah (Beautiful Gili Festival): September 24-27, 2016

7. Boracay, Philippines – Average nightly rate of all hotels bookable on TripAdvisor in Boracay: INR 6,370

One of the Philippines’ top destinations, Boracay earns its fame through its vibrant tourist hotspots and pulsating nightlife. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and head to Yapak beach that provides a welcomed intimacy and seclusion, complete with little food outlets and spectacular view, perfect for a day of soaking up some glorious sunshine. After a day of frolicking under the sun, travelers can unwind at the award-winning Discovery Shores Boracayfamed for its beautiful property and Filipino hospitality.

Reason to book now: Boracay Food Festival: May 11-13, 2016

8. Langkawi, Malaysia – Average nightly rate of all hotels bookable on TripAdvisor in Langkawi: INR 4,578

Tropical haven of Langkawi Island is home to sun-kissed beaches and lush, forested hills, making it the ideal destination for nature lovers. Get a panoramic view of the island’s beauty by taking a ride on the Langkawi Cable Car. Travelers looking for rest and relaxation can book a stay at The Danna Langkawi strategically located with easy access to numerous attractions and outdoor activities.

Reason to book now: Langkawi International Laksa (spicy noodles) Carnival: usually held on last week of May

9. Havelock Island, India – Average nightly rate of all hotels bookable on TripAdvisor in Havelock Island: INR 9,820

Havelock Island is a picturesque paradise dotted with beautiful white sand beaches. It is also home to the spectacular Radhanagar Beach, a consistent winner of the Travelers’ Choice Award for Beaches. The island is known for scuba diving and snorkeling with jungle treks and camping being other popular activities. For those not interested in these pursuits, can relax and soak in the gorgeous scenery at Barefoot at Havelock resort.

Reason to book now:Music Festival, together with Monsoon festival: usually held in August

10. TaketomichoIriomote-jima, Japan – Average nightly rate of all hotels bookable on TripAdvisor in TaketomichoIriomote-jima: INR. 15,725

Located off the coast of Ishigaki is quaint TaketomichoIriomote-jima with its beautiful rows of traditional houses and shops, reminiscent of ancient Japan. Travelers can rent a bicycle to get to the island’s natural wonders such as the stunning Pinaisara Falls, and spend the night at Hotel NirakanaiIriomotejima that boasts a fantastic beach access.

Reason to book now: Honen-sai festival (a festival thanking the gods for abundant harvest): usually held in end July

Top 5 Islands in the World:

1. Maui, Hawaii – Average nightly rate of all hotels bookable on TripAdvisor in Maui: INR 21,896

Average seasonal hotel rates: Spring: INR. 22,957 Summer: INR 22,493 Autumn: INR 20,900 Winter: INR 27,336

Average shoulder season savings during Autumn: 24 per cent

2. Santorini, Greece – Average nightly rate of all hotels bookable on TripAdvisor in Santorini: INR 14,862

Average seasonal hotel rates: Spring: INR 11,014 Summer: INR 16,986 Autumn: INR 12,938 Winter: INR 12,341

Average shoulder season savings during Spring: 35 per cent

3. Jamaica, Caribbean – Average nightly rate of all hotels bookable on TripAdvisor in Jamaica: INR 15,592

Average seasonal hotel rates: Spring: INR 17,384 Summer: INR 15,526 Autumn: INR 15,061 Winter: INR 20,170

Average shoulder season savings during Autumn: 25 per cent

4. Providenciales, Turks and Caicos – Average nightly rate of all hotels bookable on TripAdvisor in Providenciales: Rs. 30,720

Average seasonal hotel rates: Spring: INR 40,075 Summer: INR 28,132 Autumn: INR 29,924 Winter: INR 46,246

Average shoulder season savings during Autumn: 35 per cent

5. Bali, Indonesia – Average nightly rate of all hotels bookable on TripAdvisor in Bali: INR 6,768

Average seasonal hotel rates: Spring: INR 6,104 Summer: INR 7,033 Autumn: INR 6,569 Winter: INR 6,569

Average shoulder season savings during Spring: 13 per cent