Agoda Reveals Five Under-the-Radar Destinations for Pet-Friendly Travel

Travel with a furry companion in tow is no longer a niche pursuit, but a rapidly-growing trend reshaping how people explore Asia. Fuelled by remote and flexible work, a redefinition of family that now firmly includes pets, and new animal-centric accommodations, cafés, and attractions, “pawrents” are increasingly refusing to leave their companions behind. To help travellers plan their next adventure, Agoda has rounded up five of Asia’s most pet-friendly, yet wonderfully uncrowded, destinations.

Hoi An, Vietnam:
Lantern‑lit riverside town with walkable streets, pet‑friendly cafés, boutique homestays, and An Bang Beach for off‑lead roaming.

Karuizawa, Japan:
Mountain retreat with dog runs, forest trails, pet‑friendly outlet malls, and ryokan offering grooming services and in‑room amenities.

Gangneung, South Korea:
East coast city with uncrowded beaches, dog‑friendly coffee street at Anmok Beach, shaded Gyeongpo Lake path, and “pet‑pension” stays.

Yilan, Taiwan:
Countryside farm stays and hot spring resorts, riverside space at Dongshan River Water Park, and design‑forward cafés welcoming pets.

Ipoh, Malaysia:
Heritage charm with dog‑friendly cafés in colonial shophouses, limestone‑ringed courtyards, and spacious parks like Taman DR Seenivasagam.

Why It Matters
- Driven by remote work, flexible lifestyles, and redefined family structures that include pets.
- Destinations chosen for being uncrowded, slower‑paced, and genuinely welcoming to animals.
- Reflects a growing trend where pets are part of travel planning, not left behind.

Agoda Insight
Jay Lee, Regional Director, North Asia: “Travellers are increasingly seeking out smaller towns and hidden gems that offer more space, a slower pace, and genuine local warmth toward animals.”

This trend is reshaping tourism across Asia, with more accommodations, cafés, and attractions catering to four‑legged companions.