World Tourism Day 2024 is here!
Agoda has more than 7,000 employees from 102 nationalities, all united by a love of travel. Since we’re such a global bunch, our unique backgrounds make us a goldmine of insider tips and hidden gems. Just as we bridge the world through travel in our work, we’re also building those connections within our teams. You’ll often hear Agodans ask each other, “Hey, I’m visiting your country. Got any recommendations?”
It would be a shame to keep it all to ourselves, so in honor of World Tourism Day 2024, we’re sharing the love. We’ve compiled a list of favorite local spots from Agodans across the world. Read on to see their recs!
SEOUL, KOREA
Jason Kim, Regional Management Senior Lead
Namsan, in the heart of Seoul, offers one of the best trekking experiences in the city. The trail provides a peaceful escape from the bustling urban life, with well-maintained paths winding through lush greenery. As you hike up, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Seoul’s skyline, especially at sunset. Along the way, there are historical landmarks like the Namsan Seoul Tower and the old castle wall, adding a cultural touch to the experience. The course is beginner-friendly, making it accessible to all. I love this trail because it combines nature, history, and a breathtaking panoramic view. It’s a perfect way to recharge while staying close to the city.
BARCELONA, SPAIN
Carla Ieraci, Business Development Manager
As a true foodie, I have to mention Fismuler – one of the best fine dining restaurants in the city, near the historic Arc de Triomf. In a stylish, design-driven space with a lively atmosphere, you’ll taste standout dishes like their famous San Roman schnitzel topped with egg wash and grated black truffles, and a truly unforgettable cheesecake that might just be the best in Barcelona. Pair it with live music on the weekends and you have the perfect evening plan.
TAIPEI, TAIWAN
Mela Chen, Senior Partner Executive
Fake Sober is a trendy spot in Taipei, offering a unique experience from day to night. During the day, it serves as a cozy café with delicious croissants and a handy work ID discount. In the evening, it transforms into a vibrant bar featuring unique cocktails, beer, and American-style pizza. With a DJ playing Mandarin pop hits, it’s the ultimate gathering place for young people. The bar’s cute décor and design make it a popular choice for brand collaborations and events. It’s also a beloved location for Taiwanese celebrities and influencers, so you might even spot a star there. Conveniently located near the office, it’s a favorite after-work place for colleagues. If you visit the office in Taipei, feel free to join us for a fun night out!
KASHMIR, INDIA
Ajay Kumar, Full Stack Software Engineer
I recently visited the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek with two of my Agoda teammates. It’s a stunning and challenging 75-kilometer journey known for its breathtaking beauty, pristine lakes, and magnificent mountain scenery. Situated at an altitude of about 13,750 feet, the trek features seven spectacular lakes each nestled amidst rugged terrain, adding to the trek’s allure. Along the way, you’ll encounter diverse landscapes, from lush meadows and dense forests to alpine scenery and high-altitude passes, offering a true sense of exploration and a chance to experience the serene, unspoiled Kashmir Valley.
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Matthew Ellis, Strategic Account Manager
You probably have Sydney Harbour, Bondi and Manly on your Sydney list, but venture a bit further into the city’s inner west, and you’ll discover Marrickville. Recognized by Time Out as one of 2020’s top ten coolest neighborhoods in the world, Marrickville is akin to Brooklyn’s Bushwick. It’s a true melting pot of different cultures and has developed an incredible food, music, and art scene nestled among homes and industrial spaces.
My top restaurant pick: Baba’s Place. You’ll find this gem set between a mechanic and Asian food wholesale. Walk through an inconspicuous roller door and be transported to your grandparents’ house, complete with mismatched plates, crocheted blankets, and doilies, all set against graffiti-covered walls. Their menu is homey comfort food inspired by suburban immigrant communities- a bit Middle Eastern, a bit Eastern European. It’s an ode to Australia’s multicultural identity and the co-owner’s grandma, her Baba. My go-to dish? Tarama on toast. Thank me later!
KOMAGANE, JAPAN
Shinichiro Hotta, Associate Talent Acquisition Partner
I highly recommend Komagatake in Nagano Prefecture, which is about a 3-hour drive from my hometown. A prefecture in Japan is similar to a state or province in other countries. Komagatake is one of many mountains in Nagano, a prefecture in Japan where forests cover over 80% of the land. Here, you can escape the bustling city, enjoy nature, and recharge from your busy days. While it’s popular among mountaineers due to its 2,956-meter elevation, you can also take a casual visit via cable car for a scenic walk to take in the views. Visitors describe it as a must-see at least once in a lifetime, so it’s surely a top destination for all.
LONDON, ENGLAND
Chandni Parmar, Area Manager
Clifton Food Market is a little gem tucked away in London’s business district. You’ll find cuisines from all around the world in one place, so it’s perfect for food lovers. However, I always recommend the delicious Vietnamese stall, Yum Bowl. Conveniently located in Moorgate, it’s just a five-minute walk from Moorgate tube station. Yum Bowl is a very popular spot during weekday lunchtimes, so be sure to arrive early to beat the rush. The line often wraps around the corner, but the food is more than worth the wait.
SINGAPORE
Crystal Koh, Associate Director, Strategic Partnerships
Being a recent huge fan of wine, I was consistently recommended a cool little natural wine nook called Wine Mouth in my neighborhood, Joo Chiat, a heritage town famous for its Laksa. I love that the owners created a welcoming, homey upstairs space (with karaoke!) where we can always book to chill with friends. They also host Friday night wine flight tastings at reasonable prices, allowing customers to explore a variety of natural wines. The vibe of an establishment reflects the owners’ values and culture, and this place just oozes happiness and fun. Its unpretentious nature lets everyone genuinely experience natural wine at their own pace.
DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Noemi Pelyhe, Regional Manager
When most people think of Dubai, they picture its iconic architecture and skyscrapers, like the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab. But there’s more to the city. Dubai is situated in the Arabian desert, with limited green spaces and nature. That’s what makes Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary so special to me.
While not a well-known spot in Dubai, for nature and wildlife lovers, this sanctuary is one of the city’s hidden gems. It’s a small paradise in the heart of the city, with lagoons and mangroves providing a perfect haven for various bird species, including beautiful pink flamingos. It’s especially recommended to visit during the winter. Another tip: after visiting the sanctuary viewpoint, take a stroll along Al Jadaf Walk. It’s another lesser-known area with amazing views of the city, all to yourself!
SHANGHAI, CHINA
Xiaojun Ji, CST Team Manager
Latina is a unique buffet restaurant that I really like, located conveniently near Jing’An Temple in the city center. If you are a meat lover, you can enjoy unlimited meat there. The chef will bring the freshly grilled meat right to you, providing a visual impact that will instantly tantalize your taste buds. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a hearty meal with a few friends!
NEW YORK, USA
Skylar Thompson, Talent Acquisition Partner
If you visit New York City, you must check out Brooklyn to get more bang for your buck. Going out in NYC can be quite expensive, and nothing sours an experience more than mediocre food paired with a high bill. I recommend venturing into hidden gem neighborhoods like Greenpoint in Brooklyn for some classic American staples. Bernie’s is at the top of the list—there’s always a line, but it’s worth the wait! They serve classics like cheeseburgers, baby back ribs, and chicken parmesan, but they do it 100 times better than your average diner. If you’ve still got room for a nightcap, turn the corner to cute spots like Good Bar, where you can enjoy an outdoor DJ and mingle with locals.
PENINSULAR MALAYSIA, MALAYSIA
Yaya Shaari, Customer Experience Specialist
One of my favorite hidden gems in Malaysia is Gunung Yong Belar. Known as the second highest mountain in Peninsular Malaysia, it provides a captivating view into a world of lush greenery and serene landscapes. The journey to the summit is both challenging and rewarding, providing breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment. I love the mossy trail that accompanies your hike; it’s cool and less sweaty, though you should be cautious of the mud! Don’t miss the refreshing cold water and breeze from Air Terjun Pelaur— it’s the perfect spot to rest and relax before continuing your journey. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a nature enthusiast, Gunung Yong Belar promises a real adventure.
BANGKOK, THAILAND
Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Internal Comms & Employer Branding Senior Specialist
When I have friends in town who’ve already had some Thai meals, I like to take them to Phed Phed Lhay. It’s primarily an Isaan (northeastern Thai) restaurant, with an expansive menu that also includes non-regional dishes and creative takes on familiar Thai dishes. So, there’s not just som tam and the like, but also green curry and fried rice. What I love about this place is the bold yet balanced flavors and the attention to detail when it comes to the ingredients—always fresh, always the right ripeness.
Phed Phed has a few locations across Bangkok, but the Lhay branch near Ari is the best. It’s nestled in a spacious house, with a dedicated waiting room, a menu big enough to have something for everyone and a selection of wines, including natural wines, at very good prices. Pro-tip: If you’re traveling here, avoid lunch/dinner peak time to cut the wait (since it’s walk-in only). And for spicy dishes, ask for “phed noi” (mild heat), because it can get fiery!
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Andrés Ruge, Internal Communications Specialist
As an architecture enthusiast, Zeneház, the House of Music in Budapest’s Városliget Park, is a personal favorite. This contemporary masterpiece, with its organic design, tall glass walls, light columns, and trees rising through the roof, creates the illusion of a floating structure that blends seamlessly into the park’s landscape. Architecture and nature in perfect harmony! Inside, the open and illuminated spaces create a serene atmosphere, ideal for enjoying a coffee at the on-site restaurant or a peaceful picnic. With regular, sometimes free, music and art exhibitions, it’s an absolute must-see in Budapest.
Thanks for celebrating World Tourism Day 2024 with us. Let’s bridge the world through travel together. Our global team is hiring.
