While world- famous destinations are often crowded, the trend of seeking out lesser-known cultural heritage sites is opening up new options for travelers wanting to explore local history, architecture, and way of life.
According to Booking.com's 2026 Travel Trends report, 45% of Vietnamese travelers are interested in cultural exploration trips this year. Based on these results, the online booking platform has introduced five UNESCO World Heritage sites, spanning from Asia to the Americas, for those seeking a unique travel experience.
Notably, the list includes the Yen Tu - Vinh Nghiem - Con Son and Kiet Bac complex of historical sites and scenic spots in Vietnam.
The Yen Tu historical site complex, nestled amidst lush green mountains and forests, is a UNESCO World Heritage site designated for 2025.
PHOTO: BOOKING.COM
Dong Pagoda on the summit of Yen Tu Mountain, one of Vietnam's famous spiritual destinations.
PHOTO: BOOKING.COM
Another Thai destination also makes the list. Located about 400 km north of Bangkok, Sukhothai was once the capital of the first kingdom of Thailand, which was established in the 13th century. The Sukhothai Historical Park today houses nearly 200 ancient temples and pagodas with lotus-shaped stupas reflected in the lake.
Instead of crowding into Bangkok's familiar tourist attractions, visitors to Sukhothai can cycle among ancient ruins, visit Wat Mahathat, or admire the giant seated Buddha statue at Wat Si Chum.
November is also a special time when the Loy Krathong festival illuminates the ancient town with thousands of candles, lanterns, and floating lights.
The ancient village of Hahoe (South Korea) and the ancient capital of Luang Prabang (Laos), nestled peacefully along the Mekong River, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
PHOTO: BOOKING.COM
In South Korea, the ancient village of Hahoe in Gyeongsangbuk-do province offers a completely different experience from modern cities like Seoul or Busan.
Established around the 14th-15th centuries, the village still preserves over 100 traditional hanok houses with their distinctive curved tile roofs. Interestingly, descendants of the noble Pungsan Ryu family, who founded the village, still live here. Visitors can stroll among the ancient houses, learn about life during the Joseon era, or climb the Buyong cliffs.
