Seoul's Jongno 3-ga has been named the world's coolest neighborhood for 2026 by the British travel publication Time Out, according to CNN. This area, which ranked third in 2021, has moved up two spots due to its reputation as a culinary hotspot filled with street food and distinctive shops.
Grace Beard, a travel editor at Time Out, explained to CNN, "Jongno 3-ga has risen in the rankings thanks to the recent increase in outdoor dining and unique shops." Portuguese tourist Anna Barah expressed her thoughts to CNN, saying, "It’s attractive because culture and food mix, and the old and new coexist." A staff member at the cafe 'Miltoast' in Jongno 3-ga remarked, "This neighborhood has a rich history and excellent food," noting that long lines form outside the establishment every morning.
According to CNN, the second place went to the 'Lotion' district in Rabat, Morocco, which maintains its local culture and independent shops despite the presence of a Four Seasons hotel. The third spot was claimed by 'Neos Cosmos' in Athens, Greece, a hub for young artists.
Los Angeles' 'Chinatown' ranked fourth, noted for its ability to preserve history while continually reinventing itself. Amy Ballinger, a bookstore owner in Glasgow's 'Govan Hill,' which took fifth place, told CNN, "It’s the friendliest and most culturally rich place I’ve lived." The list also includes over 30 locations worldwide, such as Kitakagaya in Osaka, Chapinero Alto in Bogotá, Koenji in Tokyo, downtown St. Catharines in Canada, Esquilino in Rome, Russafa in Valencia, Tân Định in Ho Chi Minh City, and São Bento in Lisbon.
Beard added, "This year's list features many urban areas, unlike previous years, showcasing the revival of city centers that were ghost towns during the COVID-19 pandemic."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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