Singaporean travelers are increasingly prioritizing culinary exploration over conventional sightseeing, cementing the nation’s status as a powerhouse of global foodie travel. Data from late 2025 indicated a significant spike in searches and bookings focused squarely on gastronomic experiences, revealing that for a significant portion of the population, local cuisine is no longer a holiday aside, but the main draw. This shift highlights a strong appetite among Singaporean adventurers to seek out authentic and diverse dining destinations worldwide.
A Trip.com “Why Travel?” report, published in August 2025, first signaled this growing trend, noting that global Google searches for “food travel” jumped 18% and “Michelin Guide” queries rose 22%. Crucially, food-related bookings on the platform increased by a staggering 43%. Further insights shared during the “Trip.Best Southeast Asia Travel Trends Unpacked” event in December 2025 confirmed that local food and dining experiences rank among the top three factors when 70% of Singaporean travelers select a holiday destination. This deep commitment to eating well while abroad is redefining popular travel itineraries.
Unpacking Asia’s Must-Visit Dining Destinations
As Singaporean food enthusiasts look beyond established culinary capitals like Tokyo and Bangkok, several emerging Asian cities are catching their attention. These destinations offer rich tradition, exceptional value, and diverse flavors that cater to the discerning palate.
Among the standout cities is Chengdu, China, recognized as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. The capital of Sichuan cuisine has seen explosive popularity, with a massive 315% growth reported on Trip.com’s Trip.Best Global Rankings. This revival aligns with broader trends identifying China as a highly popular and value-for-money destination, according to a YouGov study from late 2025.
Beyond China, other regional hotspots promise unforgettable feasts:
- Jeju Island, South Korea: Famed for its fresh, bountiful seafood spreads and the uniquely delicious black pork barbecue.
- Fukuoka, Japan: This city attracts travelers with its authentic atmosphere, characterized by numerous Yatai (open-air food stalls) and cozy, hidden, hole-in-the-wall eateries.
Closer to Southeast Asia, travelers are discovering hidden gems that offer equally compelling culinary landscapes, especially those seeking alternatives to Ho Chi Minh City or Penang.
Southeast Asia’s Next Hotplates
For travelers who have already explored Vietnam’s major metropolitan hubs, Da Nang, Vietnam, presents a worthy contender. Its culinary scene is remarkably diverse, showcasing everything from fantastic grilled seafood along the coast to trendy new cafés catering to contemporary tastes.
Likewise, while Penang holds its reputation as a Malaysian food mecca, Ipoh, Malaysia, should not be overlooked. Known for its incredible value, Ipoh is the ideal place to savor local specialties like hor fun (flat rice noodles) and bean sprout chicken in authentic settings and at highly affordable prices.
The data clearly indicates that food is driving major travel decisions. For Singaporean travelers, the pursuit of the next unforgettable meal is reshaping global tourism, directing attention toward culturally rich and gastronomically rewarding destinations across Asia. Those eager to experience the world through their tastebuds should consider these emerging cities for their next adventure, moving beyond the traditional spots to discover the future of foodie travel.