Three cities in Indonesia's neighbouring countries are named the world's most joyful travel destinations.

Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand have been listed among the world's happiest holiday destinations. This ranking places these three neighbouring countries of Indonesia as Southeast Asian locations that combine environmental factors and Lifestyle conditions which support tourist happiness.

All three nations appear on the Holiday Happiness Index, a metric that measures happiness levels across travel destinations using multiple indicators, rather than relying solely on natural scenery or the number of tourist attractions.

This index was developed by United States-based travel platform Book Retreats, in partnership with Harvard-affiliated psychiatrist Natalie Dattilo-Ryan. The platform analysed 47 destinations worldwide for this ranking.

According to VN Express, the assessment is based on five core indicators: sun exposure, sleep quality, healthy dietary patterns, time spent in nature, and physical activity. All five indicators carry equal weight, with criteria referenced from peer-reviewed scientific research.

Lisbon, Portugal took the top position with a score of 70, followed by Helsinki (Finland) and Orlando (United States of America).

Singapore Leads Southeast Asian Destinations

Singapore ranks 25th globally with a score of 49.8. The city-state stands out for its provision of public green spaces and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.

These two factors allow visitors to enjoy the urban environment while remaining physically active throughout their trip.

Singapore has approximately 66.20 square metres of green space per resident. Around 47% of its total land area is designated green space, ranging from nature reserves to interconnected City Parks with integrated walking paths.

Singapore also features around 94 pedestrian-friendly zones, and receives an average of 2024 hours of sunlight annually.

For the sleep quality indicator, which accounts for noise and light pollution, Singapore recorded a score of 50.00. Meanwhile, the city obtained a 2.4% score for the healthy dining indicator.

The combination of open green spaces, walking trails, and urban amenities forms the basis of Singapore's score on this holiday happiness index.

Kuala Lumpur Scores High on Weather and Green Space

Kuala Lumpur ranks 28th globally with a score of 46.4, making it the second highest ranked Southeast Asian destination on this list.

Kuala Lumpur receives an average of 2222 hours of sunlight every year. Average maximum temperatures range between 31–33 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures hover around 23 degrees Celsius.

These conditions are considered ideal for Outdoor Activities, including walking tours and exploring the city's various landmarks.

Environmentally, Kuala Lumpur provides 31.04 square metres of green space per resident, along with 83 pedestrian-friendly zones. The city also recorded a 2.4 score for the healthy food indicator.

Weather conditions, green space availability, pedestrian access, and food options are all components that contributed to Kuala Lumpur's final overall score.

Bangkok Tops Sun Exposure Ranking

Bangkok placed 29th globally with a score of 45.7, only one rank below Kuala Lumpur.

The capital of Thailand receives around 2624 hours of sunlight per year, the highest figure among the three Southeast Asian cities included in this ranking.

Bangkok currently has approximately 300 pedestrian-friendly zones across the city.

For the sleep environment quality indicator, which evaluates noise and light pollution, Bangkok recorded a score of 59.11 - the highest score among the three cities, ahead of both Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Meanwhile, Bangkok obtained a 4.1 score for the healthy dining indicator.

The Bangkok municipal government is working to expand pedestrian and cycling facilities. Last August, city authorities announced plans to construct a dedicated pedestrian and cycling bridge with a total project value of USD 29 million, or approximately 518 billion Indonesian Rupiah.

This bridge is scheduled for completion in 2030. Once opened, it is expected to provide additional eco-friendly transport options for both local residents and visiting tourists.

The inclusion of Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok on this index demonstrates that a satisfying, happy holiday experience is also heavily shaped by environmental quality and the ability to maintain healthy activities while travelling.

For travellers, this means factors such as available green space, walkability, sunlight levels and food options can be valid considerations alongside famous tourist attractions when planning a trip.