Booking.com, a global leader in connecting travellers with incredible places to stay and seamless transport options including flights, car rentals, and airport transfers, has today announced the recipients of its 14th annual Traveller Review Awards, highlighting Noosa as one of the ‘Top 10 Most Welcoming Cities on Earth’.
Powered by more than 370 million verified reviews from travellers globally, the awards celebrate the partners who consistently deliver standout hospitality. In 2026, 1.81 million travel partners across 221 countries and territories will be recognised, including 1,817,848 accommodation providers, 1,977 rental car companies, and 137 airport transfer suppliers.
2026 Most Welcoming Places on Earth
Determined by the share of accommodation partners receiving a Traveller Review Award in 2026, this year’s Most Welcoming Places on Earth highlights destinations where the guest experience feels personal, authentic, and genuinely cared for. From laid-back beach communities in Australia to historic hilltop towns in Italy and coastal cities in Taiwan, these destinations offer hospitality that leaves a lasting impression with thoughtful touches, warm interactions, and hosts who go the extra mile, helping to make a trip truly memorable.
Between the golden beaches and lush hinterland of the Sunshine Coast, Noosa has long been celebrated for its relaxed coastal lifestyle, pristine National Parks, and thriving boutique and restaurant scene – qualities that appeal to both local and global travellers. Its appearance on the 2026 list reflects the dedication of local hosts, operators, and businesses who continually deliver the warm and welcoming atmosphere the town is known for.
2026’s Most Welcoming Cities on Earth:
- Noosa Heads, Australia
- Montepulciano, Italy
- Magong, Taiwan
- San Martín de los Andes, Argentina
- Harrogate, United Kingdom
- Fredericksburg, Texas, United States
- Pirenópolis, Brazil
- Swakopmund, Namibia
- Takayama, Japan
- Klaipeda, Lithuania
2026’s Most Welcoming Cities in Australia:
- Noosa Heads, Queensland
- Montville, Queensland
- Margaret River Town, Western Australia
- Port Campbell, Victoria
- Maleny, Queensland
- Port Lincoln, South Australia
- Bicheno, Tasmania
- Ocean Grove, Victoria
- Daylesford, Victoria
- St Helens, Tasmania
Tourism Noosa CEO, Sharon Raguse, said “Being named one of the World’s 10 Most Welcoming Towns is a proud moment for Noosa and a reflection of the values we hold as a community. Noosa has long been known for its openness, warmth and respect for visitors, and this recognition acknowledges the effort our industry makes to ensure every guest feels welcome, valued and connected to place. It’s a meaningful endorsement of a destination that leads with care, community and a genuine love of hosting people from around the world.”
“From hosts who remember the small details to local partners who help travellers feel instantly at home, it’s often these human moments that define a truly great trip,” said Todd Lacey, Regional Manager, Oceania at Booking.com. “The 2026 Traveller Review Awards celebrate our Australian partners who consistently go above and beyond to deliver warm, thoughtful and memorable experiences”.
“We’re incredibly proud to see Noosa Heads recognised as one of the world’s most welcoming cities this year, alongside the record number of Australian partners being acknowledged. It’s a small reflection of the exceptional hospitality found across the country, and our way of saying thank you, from Booking.com and the millions of travellers who trust us to help them experience the world,” said Lacey.
Travellers seeking home-style hospitality
At a time when travellers are seeking authenticity more than ever, the Traveller Review Awards shine a light on the partners who consistently deliver memorable and trustworthy hospitality, and accommodations continue to take centre stage. Globally, apartments remain the most awarded property type for the ninth consecutive year with 901,481 awards, followed by holiday homes (287,464), and hotels (197,658). Camping and villas saw the highest year-over-year increase in award recipients, each at 15%, followed by ryokans at 13%.
In Australia, more than 21,000 holiday homes (11,686) and apartments (9,961) were recognised in the awards, highlighting the ongoing appeal of these accommodations’ flexibility, privacy, and space. Alongside accommodation, transport continues to play an essential role in creating a seamless connected trip, with 136 rental car providers in Australia recognised this year.
