Singaporean globetrotters are increasingly prioritizing the plate over the postcard, according to recent travel analytics showing a substantial surge in food-motivated trips. As local diners, known for their discerning palates, cement their status as leading figures in global food tourism, an August 2025 Trip.com report revealed that interest in culinary voyages has spiked dramatically, with online searches for “food travel” and the Michelin guide rising by 18 percent and 22 percent, respectively, while food-related bookings on the platform soared by 43 percent. This trend underscores a pivotal shift where dining experiences are no longer holiday afterthoughts, but the primary reason for packing a suitcase.
The Rise of the Gastro-Traveler
For many Singaporeans, travel planning now revolves around where—and what—they will eat. Further insights shared by Trip.com in December 2025 confirmed this phenomenon, noting that a resounding 70 percent of Singaporean travelers list “Local Food & Dining Experiences” among their top three deciding factors when selecting a destination. This demand has illuminated several emerging foodie hotspots beyond traditional favorites like Tokyo or Bangkok.
The data suggests travelers are now actively seeking out authentic, high-quality, and often value-for-money gastronomic adventures. A YouGov study from late 2025 also highlighted China as an increasingly popular budget-friendly holiday choice, aligning with the observed growth in interest for specific Chinese cities.
Five Must-Visit Cities for Serious Foodies
Based on booking data and growth metrics, Trip.com has identified five Asia-Pacific cities that should be on every food-motivated traveler’s radar, offering diverse flavors and unique dining cultures:
1. Chengdu, China
As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Chengdu is currently undergoing a travel renaissance. The city, famous for its intense and fragrant Sichuan cuisine, experienced a massive 315 percent growth in Trip.com’s Trip.Best Global Rankings for activities and attractions. From fiery mapo tofu to delicate dan dan noodles, it offers a vibrant culinary education.
2. Jeju Island, South Korea
This volcanic island is a treasure trove for seafood lovers and meat enthusiasts alike. Visitors flock to Jeju for its exceptionally fresh catches and the specialty black pork barbecue, often prepared tableside in a traditional Korean setting.
3. Fukuoka, Japan
Known for its lively and atmospheric portable food stalls, or Yatai, Fukuoka provides a memorable dining experience. Travelers can enjoy local specialties like tonkotsu ramen and gyoza in intimate, hole-in-the-wall settings, capturing the authentic spirit of Japanese street food.
4. Da Nang, Vietnam
While Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City remain popular, Da Nang is rapidly gaining traction for its dynamic and diverse food scene. Located on Vietnam’s central coast, the city offers superb grilled seafood and a burgeoning collection of trendy, modern cafés, appealing to both traditionalists and those seeking contemporary Vietnamese cuisine.
5. Ipoh, Malaysia
Often overshadowed by its neighbor Penang, Ipoh stands out as a genuine culinary bargain. It is widely considered the ultimate destination for enjoying iconic Malaysian dishes such as hor fun (flat noodles) and beansprout chicken at exceptionally reasonable prices, offering a compelling alternative for budget-conscious foodies.
As culinary pursuits solidify their status as a main driver of travel decisions, Singaporean travelers are setting new trends, prioritizing destination authenticity and memorable local dining ventures over standard sightseeing itineraries. By moving beyond familiar established food hubs, these explorers are uncovering hidden culinary gems across Asia, signaling a permanent change in how modern holidays are planned and experienced.