Tripadvisor Announces 2024 Travelers' Choice Awards for Best Attractions and Experiences

Tripadvisor Announces 2024 Travelers' Choice Awards for Best Attractions and Experiences

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 27, 2024

Tripadvisor, the world's largest travel guidance platform, has announced the winners of its annual 2024 Travelers' Choice Awards Best of the Best Things to Do. The awards highlight the highest-rated experiences and attractions globally and in the United States, based on Tripadvisor reviews. For the first time, the Empire State Building in New York City has climbed to the top spot as the No. 1 attraction in the world. Meanwhile, the Unvanquished Tour in Porto City, Portugal, has earned the honor of being the world's best experience.

Empire State Building Tops Global Attractions

Boasting 60,000 5-star reviews, the Empire State Building reinforces its status as the "World's Most Famous Building" by securing the No. 1 attraction spot both in the US and globally. Visitors rave about the 360-degree view of New York, pointing out favorite landmarks and seeing up to six states on a clear day. With over 300 reviews calling it a "once in a lifetime" experience, the Empire State Building continues to captivate tourists from around the world.

Unvanquished Tour: Best Experience in the World

The Unvanquished Tour in Porto City Center, Portugal, has made a remarkable debut by becoming the top experience globally. This tour, praised for being budget and time-friendly, allows visitors to explore 2,000 years of history in just a few hours. With more than 8,000 5-star reviews, guests commend the tour for its entertaining and knowledgeable guides.

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Top Global Attractions

  1. Empire State Building, New York City, United States

  2. Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

  3. Anne Frank House, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

  4. Basílica de la Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain

  5. Cayman Crystal Caves, Grand Cayman, Caribbean

  6. Colosseum, Rome, Italy

  7. Louvre Museum, Paris, France

  8. Gardens by the Bay, Singapore, Singapore

  9. Duomo di Milano, Milan, Italy

  10. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Top US Attractions

  1. Empire State Building, New York City, New York

  2. Iolani Palace, Honolulu, Hawaii

  3. Central Park, New York City, New York

  4. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo, Florida

  5. Stetson Mansion, DeLand, Florida

  6. Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, California

  7. Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee

  8. Brooklyn Bridge, New York City, New York

  9. Chihuly Garden and Glass, Seattle, Washington

  10. Diamond Head State Monument, Honolulu, Hawaii

Top Global Experiences

  1. The Unvanquished Tour in Porto City Center, Porto, Portugal

  2. All-Inclusive Ubud Tour, Ubud, Indonesia

  3. All-Inclusive Amsterdam Canal Cruise by Captain Jack, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

  4. Small-Group Explore Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour with Guide from Siem Reap, Siem Reap, Cambodia

  5. Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour, Cancun, Mexico

  6. The Best Tour in Florence: Renaissance & Medici Tales, Florence, Italy

  7. Classic Inca Trail Trek 4D/3N to Machu Picchu, Cusco, Peru

  8. Budapest Danube Cruise with Buffet Dinner, Performances, and Music, Budapest, Hungary

  9. Full-Day Ninh Binh Highlights Tour from Hanoi, Hanoi, Vietnam

  10. Silfra: Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates, Reykjavik, Iceland

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Top US Experiences

  1. Oahu Circle Island Tours, Oahu, Hawaii

  2. Honolulu Xtreme Parasail, Honolulu, Hawaii

  3. History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour, Salem, Massachusetts

  4. Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching, Juneau, Alaska

  5. Pearl Harbor Remembered Tour, Honolulu, Hawaii

  6. Koloa Zipline in Kauai, Kauai, Hawaii

  7. Niagara Falls in 1 Day: Tour of American and Canadian Sides, Niagara Falls, New York

  8. ATV Riding: First-Time Rider Course and Guided Tour, Las Vegas, Nevada

  9. Clear Kayak Tour of Shell Key Preserve and Tampa Bay Area, Tierra Verde, Florida

  10. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour: All Options, New York City, New York

Unforgettable Vacation Moments

Bucket List Experiences

  1. Beginner Scuba Diving Adventure with Videos, Honolulu - Oahu, Hawaii

Cultural & Historical Tours

  1. No. 1 in the world: Amsterdam Canal Cruise in Open Boat with Local Skipper-Guide, Amsterdam, Netherlands

  2. No. 1 in the US: History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour, Salem, Massachusetts

Amusement Parks & Water Parks

  1. No. 1 in the world: Disneyland Paris, Paris, France

  2. No. 1 in the US: Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Tripadvisor's 2024 Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Things to Do Awards are determined based on the quality and quantity of traveler reviews and ratings posted on Tripadvisor from April 1, 2023, through March 31, 2024. The awards offer a comprehensive look at the top-rated activities and attractions, providing travelers with inspiration for unforgettable vacations.

For a complete list of winners, visit Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Award


Top Domestic Destinations to Experience the Magic of Winter Across India and the Subcontinent

Top Domestic Destinations to Experience the Magic of Winter Across India and the Subcontinent

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 29, 2025

As winter sets in, India transforms into a breathtaking canvas of contrasts, from snow-draped peaks and golden desert dunes to tropical shores and serene temples. Whether you’re chasing sunshine or savoring the winter chill, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel present a curated selection of destinations that capture the beauty and essence of the season.

Uttarakhand – Alpine Adventures & Sacred Serenity

Uttarakhand in winter is a mesmerizing blend of snow-laced landscapes and spiritual calm. Auli, India’s premier ski destination, turns into a white wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, or simply soaking in panoramic Himalayan views. Nearby, Joshimath offers gateways to mountain treks and tranquil retreats. For spiritual seekers, Rishikesh and Haridwar provide peaceful escapes with yoga sessions by the Ganges and evening aartis glowing under the winter sky. Whether you seek adventure or inner peace, Uttarakhand promises a soul-stirring winter experience.

Rajasthan – Royal Retreats and Desert Magic

Winter is the perfect season to revel in Rajasthan’s royal grandeur. The desert sun softens into a golden hue, ideal for exploring Jaipur’s forts, Jodhpur’s blue lanes, and Udaipur’s shimmering lakes. Camel safaris in Jaisalmer’s dunes become magical at twilight, while heritage stays and folk performances revive the charm of a bygone era. For culture enthusiasts, the Jaipur Literature Festival and the Jaisalmer Desert Festival add a festive sparkle to the season.

Kerala – God’s Own Country, in Its Coolest Mood

Kerala’s backwaters and beaches radiate serenity during winter. As the monsoon mist clears, it unveils lush greenery and crisp, pleasant weather, perfect for houseboat cruises in Alleppey or tea garden strolls in Munnar. Ayurvedic wellness retreats, spice plantation tours, and tranquil beaches like Kovalam and Varkala make Kerala a rejuvenating escape. Wildlife lovers can enjoy boat safaris in the Periyar Sanctuary surrounded by pristine hills and clear skies.

Andaman Islands – Tropical Warmth and Azure Waters

While much of the mainland cools, the Andamans welcome travelers with sunlit shores, gentle sea breezes, and azure waters. Ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, and leisurely beach strolls, these islands offer the perfect blend of adventure and calm. Havelock’s Radhanagar Beach, often listed among Asia’s best, shines brightest in winter. Beyond the beaches, Port Blair’s historic Cellular Jail and glass-bottom boat rides reveal the islands’ fascinating depth and diversity.

Sri Lanka – The Island Escape

Just a short flight away, Sri Lanka offers an inviting tropical escape for Indian travelers. From the misty tea gardens of Nuwara Eliya to the sunny shores of Bentota, the island weaves together nature, history, and culture. Winter brings clear skies ideal for whale watching in Mirissa and exploring Sigiriya’s ancient rock fortress. Boutique retreats amid plantations and coastal resorts offering holistic wellness complete the island’s seasonal allure.

North East India – Winter’s Untouched Wonderland

For those seeking pristine beauty and peaceful solitude, North East India is a winter paradise. Explore Meghalaya’s living root bridges, Sikkim’s snow-kissed monasteries, and Arunachal’s hidden valleys. The Hornbill Festival in Nagaland adds vibrant rhythm to the season, celebrating tribal art, dance, and cuisine. From glacial treks to warm homestays, this region promises an authentic and soulful experience away from the crowds.

Spiritual Journeys – Finding Calm in the Cold

Winter also beckons seekers on spiritual journeys across India’s sacred landscape. From the ghats of Varanasi and the yoga ashrams of Rishikesh to the ancient sanctuaries of Bodh Gaya and Tirupati, each destination offers moments of reflection and renewal. Early morning rituals, yoga by the Ganges, and temple aartis bathed in soft winter light create a serene balance between devotion and discovery.

As the chill sets in, these destinations across India and the subcontinent invite travelers to rediscover the joy of the season, whether through snow, sand, or silence.


China Eastern Airlines Resumes Direct Shanghai–Delhi Flights from 9 November 2025

China Eastern Airlines Resumes Direct Shanghai–Delhi Flights from 9 November 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 27, 2025

China Eastern Airlines will restart its direct flights between Shanghai and Delhi from 9 November 2025, operating three times a week on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The service restores a key air link between India and China, strengthening connectivity for business, trade, and tourism.

The Delhi–Shanghai flight (MU564) will depart Indira Gandhi International Airport at 7:55 PM, arriving in Shanghai at 4:10 AM the following day. The return flight, Shanghai–Delhi (MU563), will leave Shanghai Pudong International Airport at 12:50 PM, reaching Delhi at 5:45 PM local time. Tickets for the route are now available across all booking platforms.

This route is strategically important as one of the primary air corridors between India and China. Its reinstatement highlights growing confidence in travel demand and marks the full restoration of China Eastern Airlines’ network in India.

InterGlobe Air Transport (IGAT) continues as the airline’s exclusive General Sales Agent in India, a partnership since 2002. IGAT provides end-to-end sales, marketing, ticketing, and operational support, leveraging its deep understanding of the Indian travel market.

For the resumed service, China Eastern Airlines will deploy the Airbus A330-200, known for its long-range efficiency and superior passenger comfort. The aircraft features an advanced in-flight Wi-Fi system, allowing travellers to stay connected throughout their journey. Through Shanghai Pudong hub, passengers can access seamless onward connections across China and to global destinations in North America, Japan, South Korea, and Europe.

The reinstated Shanghai–Delhi route is expected to boost tourism, business travel, and cultural exchanges between India and China, while further strengthening China Eastern’s presence in South Asia.


Top 7 Short-Haul Winter Getaways for Indian Travellers

Top 7 Short-Haul Winter Getaways for Indian Travellers

By Hariharan U

Published on October 25, 2025

As winter sets in, it’s the perfect time for Indian travellers to take a quick break that mixes culture, adventure, and comfort, all within a few hours’ flight. Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel have rounded up seven amazing short-haul destinations that promise sunshine, experiences, and memories to match every travel style.

Vietnam – Culture Meets Calm
Vietnam beautifully blends history with modern energy. From the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the lantern-lit charm of Hoi An, there’s always something to explore. Winter brings pleasant weather, ideal for wandering through Hanoi’s old quarters or cruising the stunning limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay. Foodies will love the local flavours—bowls of steaming pho and crisp spring rolls—while beach lovers can unwind at Da Nang or Phu Quoc.

Singapore – Small City, Big Experiences
Singapore may be compact, but it’s packed with world-class experiences. Whether you’re admiring the futuristic Gardens by the Bay, shopping along Orchard Road, or sampling hawker food, there’s no shortage of fun. Take a Vespa ride through Chinatown for a quirky twist, or spend the day on Sentosa Island enjoying attractions like Universal Studios and the S.E.A. Aquarium. With its tropical weather and cosmopolitan buzz, Singapore is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

UAE – Glamour in the Desert
The UAE is where luxury meets adventure. Dubai’s sparkling skyline and thrilling desert safaris never fail to impress, while Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi showcase elegance and heritage. Winter’s cooler climate makes it ideal for dune bashing, outdoor dining, or simply soaking in desert sunsets—a short yet unforgettable getaway.

Bali, Indonesia – The Island That Heals
Bali continues to be a favourite among Indian travellers for good reason. Winter days here are warm and sunny—perfect for exploring Ubud’s rice terraces, lounging by Seminyak’s beaches, or treating yourself to a spa retreat. Rich in art, rituals, and scenic beauty, Bali offers both peace and adventure in one magical island escape.

Cambodia – Ancient Wonders Await
For those who love history, Cambodia offers a fascinating window into the past. The legendary Angkor Wat complex looks especially beautiful in the crisp winter weather. Between temple visits, you can stroll through Siem Reap’s cafés and night markets or take a boat ride through floating villages. The mix of heritage, warmth, and simplicity makes Cambodia a meaningful winter destination.

Thailand – A Classic Favourite
Thailand’s timeless charm lies in its diversity, buzzing Bangkok, scenic Krabi, and dreamy Phuket all offer something special. Winter brings the best weather for exploring temples, island-hopping, or indulging in the country’s unbeatable street food. Whether you want excitement or relaxation, Thailand’s infectious energy never disappoints.

Oman – The Arabian Surprise
Just a short flight away, Oman enchants travellers with its rugged landscapes and peaceful vibe. Think golden deserts, turquoise seas, and historic forts. In Muscat, traditional souks and seaside promenades capture the essence of Arabia. Winter is the perfect season to hike the mountains, explore sand dunes, or simply take in Oman’s natural beauty.

From beaches to deserts, each of these destinations offers something unique, proof that the best winter holidays don’t need long flights or long breaks. With Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel, your next unforgettable winter escape is just around the corner.

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