SINGAPORE, 20 March 2026: Digital travel platform Agoda announced the winners of its 2025 Gold Circle Awards this week, recognising over 3,000 top-performing hotel partners globally for operational excellence within Agoda’s ecosystem.
Now in its 17th edition, Agoda’s Gold Circle Awards celebrate properties that consistently deliver high guest standards, maintain strong digital engagement and stay adaptable.
Taiwan’s standout performance marks a milestone: 2025 is the first time it has led the ranking and placed in the top five markets by winner count, underscoring the consistency and agility of hotel partners in the market.
This year’s national ranking highlights excellence across the hospitality sector, led by Taiwan in first place and Vietnam in second. Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, Thailand and Indonesia shared third place, followed by a tie between the Philippines and India in fourth, with Australia in fifth.
Regional travel demand remains dynamic, with intra-Asia travel continuing to shape travel patterns across the region according to Agoda’s recent ‘Tailored to Win’ report.
As traveller profiles diversify and expectations for seamless digital experiences continue to rise, the Gold Circle Awards commend hotel partners that have maintained strong operational fundamentals and refined how they engage and convert travellers through Agoda’s platform at scale.
“Every year, what stands out to me is how much effort happens behind the scenes to make a stay feel effortless for the guest,” said Agoda Senior Vice President, Supply, Andrew Smith. “Over the years, we have seen different markets rise through the rankings, which is a healthy sign for the industry. It shows hotels across the region are learning quickly, adapting to new guest needs and raising their standards in ways travellers can feel. Across Asia, our winners have stayed agile and digitally strong, and we will keep investing in tools and support that help them keep performing as traveller needs evolve.”
This year’s results also point to a continued appetite for distinctive stays, alongside trusted hospitality standards. Over 50% of this year’s Gold Circle Awards went to independent properties, representing an 11% increase from the previous year and underscoring growing appreciation for more unique, personalised guest experiences. Additionally, this year’s awards reflect renewed momentum within the hospitality industry, recognising 2,200 unique winners, including properties receiving a Gold Circle Award for the first time and those returning to the program since 2020.
(Source: Agoda)
