This article looks at the 5 most overrated travel destinations in Asia. If you wish to view our detailed analysis of Over Tourism, you may go head over to 20 Most Overrated Travel Destinations in Asia.
5. Taj Mahal, India
Insider Monkey Score: 6.77
Taj Mahal is one of the seven wonders of the world and is a sumptuous example of Mughal architecture. However, the experience is not as mesmerizing as one might think. No matter what time of the year it is, the site is overrun by visitors, meaning that entering into the Mahal is a chaotic affair. Although ticket prices are not as expensive as many other landmarks around the world, foreigners are still charged nearly 20 times the fee in comparison to locals, and this exploitation of foreigners is rampant in the surrounding areas of Agra as well. Lastly, the Yamuna River is polluted with sewage to the point that its odor can be smelt whilst visiting the Taj Mahal itself.
4. Phuket, Thailand
Insider Monkey Score: 7.52
Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and one of the most visited tourist destinations in Asia. According to a study by MoneyTransfers in 2023, the island was named the most overcrowded destination in the world. Apart from being overcrowded, the island is also notorious for its exploitation of tourists. The internet is plastered with accounts of tourists revealing that they were scammed during a vacation in Phuket, with some even going so far to suggest that the local police are guilty of being complicit in these scams. Although it continues to thrive in terms of tourist arrivals, its reputation contributes to making it one of the most overrated travel destinations in Asia.
3. Singapore City, Singapore
Insider Monkey Score: 8.56
Singapore City offers one of Asia’s most beautiful cityscapes. The city’s skyline and contemporary architecture attract tourists from around the world each year. However, the issue with Singapore is that it is extremely expensive despite a lack of cultural activities for tourists to indulge in. Many of the city’s impressive skyscrapers and urban centers have been developed in areas that previously comprised of traditional attractions. The increased popularity of attractions such as theme parks, clubs, and casinos has deprived the city of providing any cultural immersion to tourists. This, coupled with the fact that its prices are as high as its skyline, makes Singapore City one of the most overrated travel destinations in Asia.
2. Bangkok, Thailand
Insider Monkey Score: 8.75
The capital city of Thailand is famous for its history, culture, and nightlife. According to a report by Mastercard, Bangkok was the most visited city in the world in 2023, with a staggering 22.78 million international visitors. Unfortunately, what was once renowned as a cheap getaway, has witnessed a steep rise in prices of hotels, food, transportation, and attractions. This is further exasperated by the fact that foreigners are often victims of scams. Bangkok also has a reputation for being one of the most polluted cities in the world. According to VoiceOfAmerica, Bangkok was the most polluted city in the world on a number of days in 2023.
1. Bali, Indonesia
Insider Monkey Score: 10.83
It would not be inaccurate to say that Bali has fallen victim to its own success. The destination is famous for its azure waters, pristine coastlines, and beachfront bars, making it one of the most visited beach destinations in Asia. However, this charm began to evaporate once Bali became a tourist hot-spot. Currently, Bali sees swarms of tourists pop onto its beaches each year. Unfortunately, most of the beaches open to the public are overcrowded and littered with trash, whilst the private beaches are exclusive to those staying at high-end resorts. Moreover, Bali has also been the victim of massive deforestation in the last few decades, because of which the region has faced a significant loss in biodiversity and beauty.
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