Agoda’s latest report reveals which countries’ travellers are the most passionate when it comes to gastronomic experiences.
The findings are derived from a survey of Asian tourists as part of Agoda’s 2026 Travel Outlook Report and show how many travellers in the region cite the discovery of new culinary experiences as a primary reason for travel.
Food is increasingly taking center stage as a primary reason for travel, with more Asian travelers eager to explore destinations that offer unforgettable culinary experiences.
This shift reflects a broader trend where gastronomy is becoming a significant motivator in choosing where to go, what to do, and where to stay, as travelers seek to immerse themselves in the local food culture of their chosen destinations.
Agoda’s survey results highlight this evolution, revealing that culinary experiences have climbed into the top three motivators for Asian travelers, jumping from sixth place last year.
In good company
Leading the list are travelers from Taiwan, with 47 percent indicating that culinary experiences are among their top reasons to travel.
This likewise highlights Taiwan's rich food culture and the importance of gastronomy in the travel plans of its residents.
Vietnamese and South Korean travelers follow in second and third place, with 35 percent and 34 percent of respondents respectively, emphasising their deep appreciation for diverse and flavorful cuisines while traveling.
Travelers from Malaysia and Japan rank fourth and fifth as Asia’s top foodies, with 33 percent and 32 percent of respondents, respectively, prioritizing food in their travel itineraries.
Finally, Indonesia, Thailand, and India round out the list of the top eight most flavor-forward travelers, showcasing their keen interest in exploring global cuisines.
According to Agoda’s country director for Thailand and Indochina Akaporn Rodkong: “Food has become one of the strongest emotional connections between travelers and the destinations they visit. Across Asia, more travelers are choosing destinations based on the flavors they want to try and the culinary stories they want to experience. Seeing Thai travelers rank among the region’s top foodie explorers reflects this growing passion for discovering new tastes and food cultures. Agoda is proud to help make those journeys possible by bringing flights, accommodations, and activities together in one seamless booking experience.”
