Phnom Penh Enters BBC’s Top 20 Travel Destinations for 2026 as Thailand Drops Off List
Phnom Penh Enters BBC’s Top 20 Travel Destinations for 2026 as Thailand Drops Off List
Phnom Penh, 2 January 2026 — In a development that has drawn significant regional and international attention, Thailand has been excluded from the BBC’s list of the “Top 20 Best Travel Destinations for 2026,” ending its long-standing presence among the world’s most favored tourism hubs. In its place, Cambodia has emerged prominently, with Phnom Penh selected as one of the featured destinations.
The BBC’s annual travel list, released on 11 December 2025, highlights destinations distinguished not merely by scenic coastlines or iconic attractions, but by urban transformation, cultural depth, sustainability, and future-oriented vision. This year’s selection reflects a strategic shift toward cities demonstrating meaningful progress and renewed global relevance.
Thailand’s absence from the 2026 list has surprised many observers, given its long-established reputation as a regional tourism powerhouse. By contrast, Phnom Penh has been described by the BBC as a “major reinvention,” gaining international recognition after years of being overlooked by global travelers. The Cambodian capital is now acknowledged as an increasingly attractive city with a clear and confident vision for the future.
A central driver of this transformation is the Techo International Airport, Cambodia’s largest infrastructure project to date. Designed as a forward-looking global gateway and featuring a striking monumental Buddha statue, the airport has become a symbol of Cambodia’s ambition and readiness to welcome travelers from around the world.
Phnom Penh has also undergone rapid urban improvements, including efforts to ease traffic congestion and enhance walkability. Newly developed riverside pedestrian zones have become vibrant weekend destinations, featuring local cuisine, handicrafts, and cultural performances. The growing presence of electric tricycle has further improved accessibility and visitor mobility throughout the city.
Cambodia’s Generation Z has also played a notable role in reshaping the city’s image. Young Cambodians increasingly embrace local products, modern cafés, and take pride in Phnom Penh’s architectural identity—particularly the revival of New Khmer Architecture, pioneered by the late renowned architect Vann Molyvann.
The BBC further noted that despite existing border tensions, urban tourism areas remain unaffected, with Phnom Penh continuing to offer a safe, welcoming, and dynamic environment for international visitors.
Phnom Penh’s inclusion in the BBC’s Top 20 Travel Destinations for 2026 marks a significant milestone, reflecting Cambodia’s growing cultural confidence, urban renewal, and rising profile on the global tourism map.
