So-called smart cities use technology to increase the efficiency of public services, reduce resource consumption and improve the quality of life of residents. Innovative, technology-enabled urban planning is the wave of the future and will also shape the experience of travellers visiting these hot spots. KAYAK.sg has identified five of the smartest cities in Asia Pacific.
“At KAYAK, we are committed to technology that shapes the experience of travellers and helps them to plan and manage their trips as smoothly as possible no matter where they go. Similarly, technology takes center stage in the operation and development of the region’s smart cities, putting them ahead of the curve and providing visitors with a preview of how the cities of the future will look.” – Debby Soo, KAYAK Vice President APAC.
| Five Smart Cities in Asia to visit in 2016 | ||
|
Destination |
Hotel recommendation |
Round trip flight price per person* |
| Songdo, South Korea | The Central Park Hotel Songdo | S$816 |
| Auckland, New Zealand | Skycity Grand Hotel | S$1081 |
| Zhenjiang, China (via Shanghai) | Zhenjiang International Hotel | S$478 |
| Tokyo, Japan | Akasaka Excel Hotel Tokyu | S$634 |
| New Taipei City, Taiwan | Hotel Eclat Taipei | S$319 |
1. Songdo, South Korea: A purpose-built Tomorrowland
Cities are increasingly seeking to encourage walking and cycling since studies have shown a link between urban planning and rising obesity rates. This is especially apparent in Songdo, a purpose-built city outside of Seoul that was branded “the first smart city in the world”.
The city is highly walkable, centres on a large public park and incorporates a comprehensive network of environmentally-friendly bicycle lanes. In addition, the city offers free high-speed Wi-Fi on the subway, charging stations for electric cars and an invisible, completely underground waste management system.