The three Asian countries voted among the best in the world by more than 20,000 Telegraph readers
More than 20,000 The Telegraph readers cast their votes for this year's Telegraph Travel Awards, crowning New Zealand as the best country in the world. Only three countries from Asia made the top 10 list – so let's count the ways we love them.
Japan slots in as the second-best country in the world, and we can't say that we're surprised. The country has long held a special place in travellers' hearts, thanks to its vibrant cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, teeming with history, culture, and amazing street food. Osaka is especially popular this year, as it's hosting the World Expo 2025. And for those concerned about contributing to overtourism in these hotspots, Japan has beautiful, under-the-radar towns and natural attractions you can reach easily by its fantastic regional train network.
India is not far behind at No.3. This vast country has so much to offer for spiritual seekers, high-life hedonists, and nature lovers alike. Explore majestic forts in Rajasthan, stalk magnificent wildlife on safaris in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve or Ranthambore National Park, or traverse the country from the mountain peaks in the Himalayas to the laidback coasts of Goa. This is a country that rewards with every single visit.
At No. 8 is The Maldives, often a go-to for a luxurious and romantic getaway. Who could resist those stunning villas perched over glassy, turquoise waters, right? There's compelling reason to leave your villa too: whether it's a snorkel to see sharks and manta rays in the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve, a visit to the Maldivian Museum to learn about the story of the region's earliest inhabitants, or to take part in a whole range of adventure activities such as jet-skiing or skydiving.
If you're planning a trip to any of these destinations, check out our guides to Japan, India, and the Maldives.
These are the top 10 countries in the world, according to The Telegraph:
New Zealand
Japan
India
South Africa
Greece
Australia
Peru
The Maldives
Costa Rica
Botswana
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