Asia

Travel Guide
Khao Lak which includes a sunset
Experience new flavors, smells, sounds and vistas in this continent that offers everything from horse riding on the plains of Mongolia to swimming at Thailand’s beaches.

Stretched out between Turkey in the northwest and Singapore in the southeast, even reaching as far as eastern Russia, Asia is huge. As the world’s biggest and most populated continent, this is a place of endless possibilities.

It’s not just the affordable travel that makes Asia such a tourism hotspot. Its ancient history shines through in ruined forts and temples, its religions and rituals are as diverse as it gets and its eclectic cuisine is a feast for the senses.

Of course, what is means to discover Asia is different for everyone. For many, walking over theGreat Wall of China, stepping into theTaj MahalinIndia, or cycling among the moss-clad ruins ofAngkor WatinCambodiafeatures high on their bucket list.

Others are saving up for a photography course inSri Lanka, a yoga retreat in India or a foodie tour ofJapan. Meanwhile, the more adventurous types may dream of an eco-tour ofVietnam, tubing down a river inLaos, climbing a volcano inSumatraor even climbingMount EverestinNepal.

Some will look no further than lazy beach sessions on the stunning islands ofMalaysiaorThailand, which also happen to be great for scuba diving. And for those looking to party, there is always the nightlife inTokyo,Bali,BangkokandKoh Phanganto delve into.

Long-overlooked regions, such asTaiwan,South Korea, and the Caucasus region are now attracting hordes of curious travelers as well. Even poorer Asian nations such asCambodia,MyanmarandEast Timorare making the list and doing splendidly. It’s here that you can still find the authentic villages and a genuine curiosity towards visitors.

It’s worth noting that most “Westerners” experience a culture shock on their first trip to Asia, especially in vast countries such as India, China and the Asian part of Russia. Just prepare to be happily lost in translation, look for the beauty in the chaos and be sure to try something new every day.

Popular cities in Asia

Sukhumvit which includes landscape views, night scenes and cbd
Bangkok
Known for Shopping, Castle and Temples
From the fury of a Muay Thai kickboxing bout, to the gentle pad of monk’s sandals at Wat Pho Temple, this “City of Angels” balances chaos and calm.

Reasons to visit

  • Erawan Shrine
  • Terminal 21 Shopping Mall
  • Lumphini Park
Shibuya featuring central business district, signage and street scenes
Tokyo
Known for Shopping, Temples and Urban
Experience the energy of one of the world’s largest cities, home to electronics shops and towering skyscrapers, ancient art and pretty cherry blossoms.

Reasons to visit

  • Shibuya Crossing
  • Tokyo Dome
  • Tokyo Skytree
Seoul featuring a city, a skyscraper and a river or creek
Seoul
Known for Shopping, Castle and Culture
The South Korean metropolis has some of Asia’s busiest markets and nightlife districts alongside tranquil teahouses and palaces surrounded by gardens.

Reasons to visit

  • Lotte World Tower
  • Hongik University
  • Hyundai Department Store
Singapore Gardens By The Bay featuring night scenes, a park and modern architecture
Singapore
Known for Shopping, Gardens and Chinatown

Reasons to visit

  • Merlion
  • Marina Bay Sands Skypark
  • Boat Quay
Forbidden City showing a fountain
Beijing
Known for Shopping, Culture and Temples
China’s bustling capital has temples, gardens and other precious relics of long-lost dynasties alongside modern architecture and entertainment.

Reasons to visit

  • Wangfujing Street
  • Silk Street Market
  • Sanlitun Road
Heian Shrine featuring a temple or place of worship, religious elements and heritage architecture
Kyoto
Known for Temples, Culture and Gardens
Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony, feed wild monkeys and explore World Heritage-listed temples and shrines in this historically rich Japanese city.

Reasons to visit

  • Nishiki Market
  • Nijō Castle
  • Kyoto Tower