tourist countries in asia

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15 Best Countries to Visit in Asia

The largest continent on Earth, Asia stretches all the way from the shores of the Mediterranean Sea to the Pacific Ocean. Its vast landmass encompasses everything from epic mountain ranges such as the Himalayas to the dry and desolate Arabian and Gobi deserts. Steamy jungle can also be found in Southeast Asia, as well as paradise islands and beautiful beaches.

In addition to its colossal size, Asia is remarkably home to more than half of the world’s population. With so many different cultures and languages for you to delve into, the continent’s dazzling diversity defies definition. As each country has its own unique history and heritage, Asia’s many natural wonders and hidden treasures could take a lifetime to unravel.

15. Maldives

Made up of 1,200 or so islands and atolls, the Maldives boasts some of the best and most breathtaking beaches in the world. Nestled away in the Indian Ocean, the glamorous getaway is renowned for its luxurious resorts, many of them with their own private island.

While each idyllic island in the archipelago appears more stunning than the last, the Maldives is also noted for its underwater riches. As such, it is a fantastic place to go scuba diving or snorkeling, with lots of colorful coral reefs and shimmering shoals of fish to discover.

With so many picture-perfect white-sand beaches for you to check out, this serene and secluded honeymoon destination is not to be missed out on.

14. Malaysia

Consisting of Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia , this incredible country is home to some of the oldest rainforest on Earth. Its national parks boast lots of fantastic trekking and wildlife in addition to the marvelous nature and scenery on show.

Very multicultural and diverse, Malaysia’s thriving cities and capital Kuala Lumpur are home to Chinese, Indians, and ethnic Malays. Amongst the modern skyscrapers, impressive historical and cultural landmarks can be found, and its restaurants serve up lots of delicious local cuisine.

With you can find idyllic islands and pristine beaches in Malaysia , seeing an orangutan up close in their natural habitat is probably the highlight of any visit.

13. Cambodia

Tucked away in between Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam in Southeast Asia, Cambodia is awash with astounding historical ruins and archaeological sites.

This is because the mighty Khmer Empire built lots of amazing temples, monuments, and palaces around the country between the 9th and 15th centuries. Of these structures, the undoubted highlight is the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat.

Besides the vibrant cities of Siem Reap and the capital Phnom Penh, Cambodia also boasts plenty of delightful nature. With picturesque paddy fields, jungle-clad mountains, and fabulous tropical islands for you to explore, Cambodia has something for everyone to enjoy.

12. Sri Lanka

An increasingly popular tourist destination, Sri Lanka is set in the Indian Ocean just off the south of India. While its fabulous beaches are one of its main attractions, the island has a rich history and culture for you to delve into.

As its history dates back around 2,500 years, Sri Lanka has lots of impressive archaeological sites and historic and cultural landmarks to check out. Ranging from ancient temples to colonial-era forts, many of these can be found in the enthralling cities of Anuradhapura, Galle, and Kandy.

In addition to this, Sri Lanka also has some spectacular scenery and incredible wildlife for you to enjoy. Offering up the perfect mix of beaches and culture, history, and nature, Sri Lanka has it all.

Steeped in history, the Sultanate of Oman’s unique culture, traditions, and heritage are visible wherever you go. Indeed, the proud identity of its people and their welcoming nature is in part what makes the country so charming to visit.

Unlike many of its neighbors, Oman hasn’t erected any skyscrapers or modernized dramatically. This means its desert oasis towns and the capital Muscat still exhibit lots of lovely old architecture, and their skyline has remained unchanged for centuries.

While its souks and medinas are captivating in their beauty, the country’s desolate landscapes are no less alluring. Home to spectacular mountains, a gorgeous coastline, and lots of scenic sand dunes, Oman is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.

10. The Philippines

As the Philippines are made up of over 7,000 different islands, it should come as no surprise to learn that it is a very popular beach holiday destination. Its inviting waters make for some fantastic surfing, scuba diving, and snorkeling, with Boracay and North Palawan particularly great places to enjoy watersports.

While some islands are coated in lush rice fields or tropical rainforest, others are home to hidden lagoons and smoking volcanoes. Dotted about its varied landscapes, you can find chaotic yet colorful cities, such as Cebu and the capital Manila.

The cultural make-up of the country is varied; while traveling around, you’ll notice Spanish, American, and traditional influences, amongst others. As you can see, the archipelago has much more to offer than just sun, sea, and sand.

9. South Korea

The home of K-Pop and Kimchi, South Korean culture is currently very much in vogue around the world. This represents a marked change, as for much of its history, it has been overlooked and outshone by its larger and more powerful neighbors China and Japan.

What makes traveling around the peninsula so fascinating is that the nation boasts a rich and unique history, heritage, and culture. It has, however, modernized rapidly. You’ll find centuries-old palaces and temples alongside skyscrapers and gigantic shopping malls.

Deceptively mountainous, South Korea also has lots of marvelous national parks for you to explore, with beautiful islands and beaches hugging the shore. Of these, Jeju Island is the most popular to visit among locals and tourists alike.

With so much astounding history, culture, and nature, Vietnam is one of Asia’s most rewarding destinations. The country encompasses lots of different landscapes, and its idyllic coastline hugs the South China Sea.

Many visitors rent a motorbike and explore the Ho Chi Minh trail. This takes you from the colorful yet chaotic capital Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh city, guiding you past the ancient capital of Hue on the way. Ha Long Bay is another must-see sight due to its stunning seascape and breathtaking limestone islands.

The picturesque coastal town of Hoi An is also well worth checking out, while the hill tribes around Sa Pa showcase some of the nation’s cultural and ethnic diversity. Regardless of where you go, Vietnam’s fabulous cuisine is sure to be a treat.

Due to its strategic location between Africa, Europe, and Asia, Jordan in the Middle East has long welcomed travelers and traders to its lands. Armies also passed through, and over the millennia, rulers and empires left behind crusader castles, Roman amphitheaters, and of course, Petra.

Majestic to behold, the ancient Nabataean city is sure to be unlike anything you’ve seen before. Set amid the desert and carved out of rock, it is undoubtedly the highlight of any visit to the country.

While Petra is justifiably the main attraction, the Dead Sea and Wadi Rum’s desert landscapes are also well worth exploring. The safest country to visit in the region, Jordan’s many charms and Middle Eastern hospitality will surely beckon you back in no time at all.

One of the best places in the world to go trekking and mountaineering, Nepal is a breathtakingly beautiful country full of amazing scenery. Dominated and defined by the Himalayas, the mountain nation is home to many of the tallest peaks on Earth. Of these, Mount Everest stands head and shoulders above them all.

While many people come to hike the Annapurna Circuit, Nepal also boasts a rich cultural heritage. Centuries-old temples, shrines, monasteries, and palaces dot the country, with Maya Devi Temple in Lumbini being the most famous. It is here that the Buddha was born some 2,500 years ago.

Known as the ‘City of Temples’ due to its many religious sites, the capital Kathmandu is not to be missed out on.

5. Indonesia

Made up of more than 18,000 islands that span some 4,700 kilometers from east to west, Indonesia covers a huge area. As such, the nation is one of the most diverse places on Earth – whether that’s in terms of people, culture, and languages or landscapes and wildlife.

In many ways, the archipelago defies definition. For instance, its small, secluded sleepy settlements are in stark contrast to the teeming and chaotic capital of Jakarta. One of the most populous nations in the world, its customs, traditions, and cuisines also vary dramatically depending on where you go.

Lying between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, its islands’ habitats are just as diverse. While in Bali you can find beautiful beaches, Borneo has wonderful wildlife and awe-inspiring orangutans. With so much to see and do, the ‘Emerald of the Equator’ definitely warrants a visit.

Home to one of the world’s richest and oldest civilizations, India is awash with different cultures, religions, peoples, and traditions. It is this diversity that makes it so mesmerizing to explore.

While the Himalayas dominate the north, steamy jungle, picturesque tea plantations, and gorgeous beaches can be found in the rest of the country. Tucked away among these varied landscapes are millennia-old archaeological sites and colorful yet chaotic cities such as Mumbai and New Delhi.

From temples to cuisine and history to wildlife, the world’s second-most populous country has something for everyone. The only question is where to begin.

Although it consists of almost 7,000 islands, most of Japan’s main sights and tourist attractions can be found on Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, and Shikoku. These are the four largest of them.

Lying to the east of mainland Asia, the island nation is a fascinating place as old and new collide wherever you go. While the futuristic metropolises of Tokyo and Yokohama are full of skyscrapers and neon lights, Kyoto and Nara instead boast traditional palaces and age-old temples.

Covered in mountains and forests, the country is also home to some delightful nature and scenery. This explains why the vast majority of its large population is found in the densely populated cities that hug its long and indented coastline.

2. Thailand

Thanks to its breathtaking beaches, glittering temples, and welcoming population, Thailand is a very popular tourist destination. Fittingly enough, it is often called ‘the Land of Smiles.’

While Bangkok has lots of fantastic cuisine and nightlife on offer, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are home to some of the nation’s most famous temples. Further afield, you can find wild jungle, picturesque paddy fields, and quiet and secluded towns and villages.

Lying in between the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, its golden sands and underwater marvels attract hordes of people every year. Many also come to party in its beachside towns, visit idyllic islands such as Ko Tao , or enjoy the stunning scenery at Krabi.

Dominating Asia in terms of both its size and population, China boasts one of the world’s oldest civilizations. As such, incredible historical and cultural landmarks are on show wherever you go.

While the Great Wall of China is obviously its main attraction, the Terracotta Army in Xi-an and the Forbidden City in Beijing attract just as many people. Others come to enjoy China’s beautiful scenery that includes towering mountains, endless rice terraces, and the desolate Gobi Desert.

The most populous nation on Earth, China is home to many rapidly modernizing cities that are enthralling to visit. Its age-old traditions and customs remain, however. A continent of a country, China and its vast and varied landscapes, cities, and cultures could take a lifetime to explore.

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Reader interactions.

May 24, 2021 at 1:33 am

Pakistan worth visiting. It has untapped natural beauty yet to be explored.

May 16, 2021 at 9:00 pm

Phillipines is the best country to visit in Asia. Something for everyone with amazing people.

March 25, 2021 at 6:16 am

you should also add Pakistan because its worth seeing and has a lot to explore

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Best places to visit in asia.

From megacities to remote islands, Asia's top travel spots offer a hearty dose of adventure, ancient history and culture. And with most Asian destinations now fully open after years of pandemic restrictions, there has never been a better time to plan a trip. After considering local prices, accessibility and the variety of attractions in each destination, along with traveler feedback, U.S. News ranked the best places to visit in Asia. Contribute to next year's list by casting your vote below.

Sagarmatha National Park

Railay beach, guilin and lijiang river national park.

If your dream vacation involves posting up on a postcard-worthy beach, the Maldives is for you. This far-flung destination, which is located about 370 miles from civilization in the Indian Ocean, is made up of more than 1,100 idyllic islands (roughly 200 of which are inhabited). The Maldives feature lush tropical landscapes, unparalleled white sand beaches, crystal-clear ocean waters and coral reefs that prompt extensive exploration. The best way to experience this slice of paradise? Stay in one of many overwater bungalows , of course.

Tokyo is as fast-paced as cities come – it's the most populated city in the world, after all. Japan's capital features neon-lit skyscrapers and crowded streets that novice visitors may find dizzying, but its one-of-a-kind offerings can't be missed. Spend days touring quirky museums, exploring fascinating architecture or visiting Odaiba for its premier shopping scene. Or, take in some quieter, more peaceful moments at a holy site like the Meiji Shrine or Sensoji Temple. Tokyo's unrivaled gastronomic landscape (think: sushi, ramen, sky-high cocktail bars and more Michelin darlings than you could hope to visit) also makes it a bucket list destination for foodies.

Phuket, Thailand's elongated beaches and cerulean waters embody a paradise that few other Asian destinations can rival. Besides swimming and relaxing on the beach, visitors can take traditional, wooden longtail boat tours to James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay to see the surreal limestone rock formations that rise from the sea. The towering Big Buddha statue is also a top attraction, while Phuket's buzzing beach clubs and nightlife options hold appeal for those looking to let loose. What's more, like most destinations in Thailand, travelers can find relatively affordable lodging options here.

This Nepalese national park is famous for housing the behemoth that is Mount Everest, the highest point on earth, and promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. However, it is important to know that Sagarmatha is not just Everest. The UNESCO-listed park also offers several other sky-high Himalayan peaks, as well as sweeping valleys, scenic glaciers, deep gorges and incredible wildlife, including snow leopards and red pandas. Just note, seeing the park's top attractions typically requires at least two weeks of trekking, and due to Sagarmatha's high elevation and rocky, steep terrain, a trip here isn't for the faint of heart.

A British colony until 1997, Hong Kong's strong Western influence sets it apart from China's mainland metropolises. Beyond Hong Kong's sleek, towering skyscrapers (best admired from Victoria Peak), visitors can find natural and cultural gems on the more than 250 outlying islands, such as Lantau Island, or shop the city's bustling street markets. Dim sum is a must, but Hong Kong's robust dining scene also offers everything from street food to Michelin-starred fine dining. And when the sun goes down, watch the Symphony of Lights laser show dazzle the skyline along Victoria Harbor.

Tucked among lush mountains in northwest Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a sized-down version of Bangkok's buzz paired with a tranquil culture and natural beauty. Your urban itinerary should include tuk-tuk rides, tours of breathtaking temples like Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara and Wat Phra Singh, trips to night markets and a cooking class to try your hand at pad Thai. Then, step outside of the city walls to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary or two and a wander through beautiful Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.

History lovers and Instagrammers alike will revel in the sites of Kyoto. The city, which used to be Japan's capital until imperial times, is awash with centuries-old shrines and temples, including the gilded Kinkakuji and Fushimi Inari Taisha, a shrine that dates back to A.D. 711. In addition to saving time for religious sites, be sure to visit the famous Philosopher's Path, preferably during cherry blossom season, and the mystical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. When hunger strikes, treat yourself to kaiseki: a traditional multicourse meal native to Japan. For another essential Japanese experience, stay at one of the many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in Kyoto.

From the moment you touchdown at Singapore Changi Airport (a tourist destination in itself), Singapore shows off its futuristic embellishment. But this Southeast Asia jewel is also unique for its amalgamation of cultures. This fusion takes form in the city's colorful neighborhoods, eclectic culinary scene and overall modern atmosphere. After shopping on flashy Orchard Road and chowing down in cultural enclaves like Little India or Chinatown, head downtown to take in the towering skyscrapers from Merlion Park, the Singapore Flyer or the sky-high Gardens by the Bay.

The island nation of Sri Lanka, located off the southern tip of India, boasts rainforests, beaches and ruins without the tourist crowds of other popular Asian destinations. Despite its small footprint, Sri Lanka features 26 national parks, many of which are ideal for a safari excursion to encounter elephants, leopards and sloth bears. Meanwhile, ancient sites like Sigiriya, a 600-foot-high fortress, and the temples of Polonnaruwa hold their own appeal, and the palm-fringed golden beaches that line the shores are never too far away for those seeking a more laid-back vacation.

Hanoi is perfect for first-time Vietnam visitors, with tranquil lakes offsetting its fast-paced bustle and darting motorbikes. The country's capital offers plenty in the way of history, culture, shopping, dining and natural splendor. Start your day off with a Vietnamese coffee, then head to Hanoi's central Old Quarter for a stroll through the many narrow, colorful streets and a taste of mouthwatering street food. After that, check out one of the city's many temples, including the ancient Temple of Literature, which dates back to the 11th century, or head to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a must-visit for history buffs.

Bali's natural beauty is so profound, travelers have been known to refer to the Indonesian destination as "heaven on Earth." Here, lush rainforests, picturesque mountains, sweeping valleys and scenic beaches all sit side by side. You'll also find a handful of serene temples in this Southeast Asia hot spot, including Uluwatu and Tanah Lot temples – both excellent places to catch a sunset. And no first-time trip to Bali would be complete without on a visit to Ubud, Bali's cultural capital and home of the region's famous rice terraces.

Whether you visit in spring (for cherry blossoms), summer (for climbing), autumn (for foliage) or winter (for nearby ski resorts), Japan's highest peak and imposing attraction is sure to capture your attention. Mount Fuji lies about 60 miles southwest of Tokyo, perfect for a daytrip from the city or a glimpse from a train ride, but this active volcano is also worthy of deeper exploration. Base yourself in the Fuji Five Lakes area to enjoy picture-perfect views at Arakurayama Sengen Park or from one of Lake Kawaguchiko's onsens (hot springs), and don't leave without sampling local hoto noodles.

If you only have time to go to one beach in Thailand, make it Railay Beach, one of the world's most beautiful beaches . Located in the country's Krabi province, Railay Beach features glistening white sands and is surrounded by limestone rock formations (covered in leafy green vegetation) that jut out from the sea. If you're feeling adventurous, explore the area's natural wonders with a rock climbing excursion or go for a nighttime kayak trip to see bioluminescent plankton. As if this beach destination couldn't get more alluring, you're only able to reach it by boat. Daytrips from nearby Ao Nang are popular among travelers.

Siem Reap is the home of Angkor Wat, an ornate Buddhist temple built in the 12th century that is believed to be the largest religious monument in the world. The impressive landmark is just one of many must-sees within Cambodia's UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor. The complex also includes the equally detailed Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm Temple. Because of the immense popularity of Angkor (the site receives millions of visitors per year), you may want to travel during a shoulder month like March or November to avoid bumping elbows with fellow travelers.

Travel to the capital of Indian state Rajasthan to marvel at the "Pink City's" incredible architecture. Hawa Mahal, a pink sandstone palace that was modeled after Hindu god Krishna's crown, is Jaipur's biggest claim to fame. The property's astounding 953 honeycomb-patterned windows allowed the original ladies of the royal family to view the comings and goings of the Indian city without being seen. Other structures worth seeing are the Jaigarh Fort, Panna Meena ka Kund and Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that displays larger-than-life astronomical instruments.

Thailand's capital city is filled to the brim with eye-catching Hindu sites, nonstop nightlife and incredible Thai cuisine. Sacred sites like Wat Arun and Wat Pho are pockets of calm amidst Bangkok's skyscrapers. Shoppers can enjoy the Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the world's largest street markets, or venture to one of the floating markets located outside the city. While in Bangkok, grab as much grub as possible from the street stalls, and at night, you won't want to miss the lofty views from one of the many rooftop bars.

This national park is so loved and respected, its image is featured on China's paper currency. Guilin and Lijiang River National Park is located in the Guangxi region in the southeastern part of China. The Lijiang River runs about 50 miles from Guilin to Yangshuo, passing stunning landscapes and towering green karsts (eroded limestone) along the way. The best way to take in the otherworldly scenery is by boat cruise, though you may want to splurge on a luxury option since the trip can take up to five hours. Tourists who prefer to travel on their own time can also hike or bike along the river.

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16 Beautiful Countries in Asia & Territories to Visit

From the bustling streets of Hong Kong to laid-back ancient temples in Myanmar, Asia is a place where adventure is ripe for the picking at every corner.

First-time travelers can get easily overwhelmed by the thought of exploring this massively diverse region. Fortunately, there are a lot of destinations that are perfect for the uninitiated while others just need more preparation & planning.

Get inspired to start your adventure in Asia with this list of the beautiful countries to visit as well as territories worth a place on your bucketlist.

Take note that the countries featured below are the ones I’ve personally traveled to so far. If you have any suggestions, feel free to share your thoughts (in the comments or on my IG/FB/Tiktok page).

Here’s a list of beautiful places to countries in Asia including top things to do & the best tourist spots.

To make your trip planning easy, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app. Seeing all your saved locations on the map will help you get started on planning your Asia itinerary and know the best areas to stay, near places you want to go.

See also: 32 Things to do in The Philippines + Tourist Spots , Indochina Itinerary , 33 Things to do in Singapore + Tourist Spots , Best Travel Apps .

View all travel tips on: Asia .

1. Philippines

Location : Southeast Asia . Save on Google Maps .

The Philippines is my home. If you’re planning to skip this country entirely, then you’re missing out on a lot! The Philippines is where you can find some of the best beaches in the World. Made up of over 7,500 islands, there is a ton of things to see and do here worth a spot on your bucketlist, from enjoying popular holiday destinations to discovering places off the beaten path. What sets the Philippines apart from the rest of Asia is its distinct culture, shaped by Spanish, American, and native influences. Bias aside, one of the best things I love about traveling in the Philippines is how easy it is to have interactions with locals. Getting around isn’t much of a problem since most Filipinos can understand English and are very friendly. Breaking down the language barrier makes travel more fun in the Philippines.

How to go :

Manila is the main flight hub in the Philippines. Manila-NAIA International Airport serves direct flights from major cities in Asia, Australia, USA, Canada. An excellent alternative is to fly direct to the Philippines’ secondary international gateways including Cebu, Puerto Princesa (Palawan), Iloilo, Davao, Kalibo & Clark.

Philippines Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour w/ Buffet Lunch

Bohol Countryside Tour w/ Buffet Lunch

Coron Super Ultimate Day Tour

See more : Philippines travel tips

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Location : East Asia . Save on Google Maps .

Japan is one of the first places to comes to mind when people ask me about my favorite places to travel. Japan is futuristic yet still retains strong ties to tradition. You’ll find serene temples surrounded by beautiful views of nature. People are very warm and the food is delicious. Japan offers nearly all of the kinds of sights and experiences that get me excited when I travel. Best of all, getting around is very easy because of the well-developed transport network.

Japan Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts

Tokyo Subway Ticket (24, 48, or 72 Hours)

JR Pass for Whole Japan

SHIBUYA SKY Ticket

See more : Japan travel tips

Location : South Asia . Save on Google Maps .

Nepal is the ultimate destination for mountain lovers. The Nepali Himalayas is the roof of the World, home to Mount Everest — the highest peak on earth. Travelers who venture to this country soon discover a lot more sights and experiences that are worth the long journey from home. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kathmandu Valley is home to medieval squares and sacred monuments for Hindus & Buddhists. In Pokhara, you can go paragliding or simply enjoy the majestic views of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains from one of the many easily accessible viewpoints.

Kathmandu International Airport is the primary gateway to Nepal. The airport’s busiest destinations include major gateways in India (Delhi), Middle East (Doha, Abu Dhabi, Dubai) & Southeast Asia (Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur).

From the Philippines, book a connecting flight via Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur or Singapore since there are no direct flights from Manila to Kathmandu. Excluding time spent on layovers, travel time from the Philippines to Nepal via Bangkok should take around 7 hours minimum.

Nepal Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts Check Fares

Kathmandu Airport-City/Hotel Transfers

Everest Mountain Flight

Everest Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu (12D11N)

See more : Nepal travel tips

4. Singapore

Arguably the easiest destination to travel in Southeast Asia, highly developed Singapore is perfect for first-time travelers, especially those traveling with family. Singapore is my most visited international destination! I’m very impressed with how nature is preserved and even masterfully integrated into the futuristic urban landscape. Gardens by the Bay and the Jewel Changi Airport are among my favorite spots. A melting pot of Asian cultures, Singapore is a foodie paradise where you can get a taste of the local cuisines of different parts of the continent. Thanks to its wide network of direct flights, Singapore is also a worthwhile jump-off point to more “exotic” places in Southeast Asia. And, a fitting last stop to indulge in urban comforts before the journey home.

Singapore’s primary gateway is Changi International Airport, which is well-connected by air from nearly all corners of the globe especially major cities in Southeast Asia, East Asia, South Asia, Middle East and Australia. Land border crossings are also popular to/from Malaysia via Johor Bahru.

From the Philippines, travel time from Manila by flight takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes. This route is served by Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, Singapore Airlines, Jetstar Airways and Tigerair. Direct flights are also available from several provincial cities including Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Kalibo & Clark.

Singapore Travel Essentials

Legoland Malaysia Admission Ticket

Universal Studios Singapore Admission Ticket

Singapore 4G Data SIM Card (SG Airport Pickup)

See more : Singapore travel tips

5. Indonesia

Even thinking about adventures to be had in over 18,307 islands already makes me want to go aboard the next flight to Indonesia. You can skip “eat” and “pray,” and go straight to “love” in Bali. If you’re tired of beaches, there are ancient temples, volcanoes, waterfalls, and nature parks waiting for you in 18,306 more islands.

Bali and Jakarta are the best entry points to Indonesia for most travelers as flights are aplenty. It’s also possible to fly direct to Medan, Surabaya or Yogyakarta from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

From the Philippines, Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines operate direct flights to Jakarta and Bali. Travel time to both destinations should take around 4 hours. You might also be able to chance upon good deals by transiting through Singapore and Kuala Lumpur instead.

Indonesia Travel Essentials

Bali Private Car Charter

Singapore to Bintan-Lagoi Ferry

Nusa Penida Day Tour from Bali

See more : Indonesia travel tips

25 Things to do in Indonesia + Tourist Spots

If you’re already flirting with the idea of going on off-the-beaten-track adventures in Myanmar, go there now before tourism in the country grows too mainstream. Traveling in Myanmar used to take a lot of effort, but now it’s a lot easier thanks to the country opening up more to foreign tourists & convenience of booking hotels/tours online. If there’s one place you should visit, it’s Bagan, ancient city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with thousands of temples that still survive to the present day.

Yangon is the primary flight hub in Myanmar. Mandalay is also a viable option, especially if you’re planning to visit the ancient temples in North Central Myanmar. Consider a trip long enough to fly in Yangon, enjoy a stopover at Bagan, and fly out from Mandalay (or vice-versa).

From the Philippines, the best way to get to Myanmar is by going on a connecting flight via Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur.

Myanmar Travel Essentials

Bagan Temples Cultural Full Day Tour

Yangon Highlights Private Tour

Yangon and Bagan Bus – VIP Ticket (One Way)

See more : Myanmar travel tips

8 Things to do in Yangon + Tourist Spots

7. Hong Kong, China

A gawk-worthy modern skyline and exciting urban attractions are the top reasons that got me on a plane to Hong Kong on my first trip abroad. If you are traveling abroad for the first time or traveling with family, I highly recommend Hong Kong. Not only are there a lot of exciting things to see and do, getting around is very easy. Another I like about Hong Kong is that it’s within a 1-hour ride away from Macau & Mainland China. The border crossings are great if you’re on a journey to collect stamps on your passport.

Most travelers arrive at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), which is well-connected by plane from all major cities across the globe. Frequent ferry services link Hong Kong to Macau (1 hour) and cities along the Pearl River Delta. By land, roadways, and trains connect Hong Kong to Mainland China via Guangdong & Guangzhou.

From the Philippines, frequent daily flights connect Manila to Hong Kong (2 hours). You may also fly from Cebu, Iloilo, Clark & Kalibo. Direct flights are operated by Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, Cathay Pacific & TigerAir.

Hong Kong Travel Essentials

Hong Kong Disneyland Admission Ticket

Ocean Park Hong Kong Admission Ticket

Victoria Peak Tram and Sky Terrace 428

See more : Hong Kong, China travel tips

8. Thailand

Growing up in a place heavily influenced by Western culture, the exotic appeal of Thailand was irresistible on my first solo trip abroad. With so many places catered to budget travelers, it’s easy to travel cheaply around fascinating destinations in the country while enjoying the bliss that is Thai food.

If you’re looking forward to some saltwater therapy, the southern half of Thailand is home to jaw-dropping sea views. While the areas north of the capital Bangkok offers spectacular mountain scenery and fascinating temple towns.

Bangkok is the primary international and domestic gateway to Thailand. Travelers either arrive at Suvarnabhumi International Airport located on the eastern outskirts of Bangkok and Don Mueang International Airport in the north. Direct international flights also available in provincial tourist hotspots including Phuket, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Samui, Krabi & Pattaya. Alternatively, land border crossings are popular from/to Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia & Vietnam (via Cambodia).

From the Philippines, fly from Manila to Bangkok (3 hours and 30 minutes) on Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, or Thai Airways. You may also go on a connecting flight via Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. Another option is to arrive in Ho Chi Minh, Siem Reap, or Kuala Lumpur and continue your journey to Thailand by land or air.

Thailand Travel Essentials

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (ARL) Ticket

Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

Pattaya-Nong Nooch Tropical Garden Ticket

See more : Thailand travel tips

20 Things to do in Thailand + Tourist Spots

9. Cambodia

If you’re in-love with the idea of exploring ancient temple ruins, then Siem Reap, Cambodia has Southeast Asia’s grandest archaeological site (in my opinion, at least). Plus, locals are very friendly and most of them speak good English, which makes traveling around the country very easy. Siem Reap, Cambodia is one of the most exceptional places to visit in Southeast Asia. Here, you can find Angkor Wat, the World’s largest religious monument & other ruined sites built during the reign of the ancient Khmer empire. I’ve traveled to Siem Reap several times & the marvelous sights never failed to amaze me.

The majority of temple-bound travelers arrive in Siem Reap, the main gateway to the ancient temples of Angkor, and less popularly in the capital, Phnom Penh. The country sits right in the middle of the Thailand-Cambodia-Vietnam Indochina banana pancake trail making cross-border land travel very easy.

Philippine Airlines serves direct flights between Phnom Penh & Manila. Alternatively, you can book a connecting flight via Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. Or, travel by land/air from Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh to Cambodia.

Cambodia Travel Essentials

Angkor Wat & Little Circuit Guided Join-In Tour

Banteay Srei & Angkor Grand Circuit Guided Join-In Tour

Siem Reap Private Car Charter

See more : Cambodia travel tips

9 Things to do in Cambodia + Tourist Spots

10. Vietnam

1 US Dollar converts to around 23,200+ Vietnamese Dong (as of the time of writing). To be a millionaire in Vietnam, you only need to have USD 43! (PHP 2100+) Try checking your ATM balance to get a good shock from all the digits. Purchasing power considered, your money still goes a long way here. Today, it’s one of the World’s cheapest countries to travel. Vietnam is most known for its turbulent wartime history, delicious food, and Ha Long Bay. Before arriving in the country and traveling around its countrysides, little did I know that it is also home to some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Southeast Asia, and charming heritage sites that are worth a peek. Vietnam is also a great starting point to traverse the (Vietnam-Cambodia-Thailand) Indochina trail.

Travelers either arrive at Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) in South Vietnam or Hanoi in North Vietnam. Da Nang in Central Vietnam is also a good option as it caters to a growing number of direct international flights. Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi are well-connected by flight (2 hours) as well as by train (33 hours with no stops), and overnight buses.

From the Philippines, fly directly to Ho Chi Minh from Manila on Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines. Cebu Pacific also operates a direct route from Manila to Hanoi. You can also consider taking a connecting flight via Singapore, Hong Kong or Kuala Lumpur.

Vietnam Travel Essentials

Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge Day Tour

Full Day Mekong Delta Excursion from Ho Chi Minh

Private Noi Bai Airport Transfers (HAN) for Hanoi City or Halong Bay

See more : Vietnam travel tips

15 Things to do in Vietnam + Tourist Spots

There’s no place on earth like India. This country is home to the world’s most spectacular architecture and colorful mix of cultures. It is like a continent of its own. Each place offers unique experiences catered to different types of travelers. Once you’ve arrived and fallen in love with India, you’ll want to keep coming back for more.

Arriving by air is the best way to get to India. Delhi and Kolkata airports are the primary flight hubs in north India. You can fly to Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore or Chennai if you’re bound for south India. Major airlines in the country include Air India, SpiceJet, Jet Airways, IndiGo, GoAir, AirAsia & Vistara.

From the Philippines, catch a connecting flight in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok or Hong Kong since there are no direct flights between Manila and Indian airports. Excluding time spent on transits, travel time from the Philippines to India should take 6–8 hours via Bangkok or 8–10 hours via Singapore/Kuala Lumpur.

India Travel Essentials

Delhi-Agra-Rajasthan Private Transfers – Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer & More

Taj Mahal Fast Track Entry Ticket

Delhi Private Car Charter

See more : India travel tips

12. Malaysia

Lying between Singapore and Thailand, literally and on the scale of how easy it is to travel, Malaysia is a great choice if you plan on visiting adventure-filled places but still want to travel with relative ease. It’s also hard not to miss it if you’re flying with AirAsia, the biggest airline in the region based in Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia is worth a spot on your bucketlist for its captivating natural landscape, home to one of the World’s oldest forests and thriving multi-cultural cities. The country is composed of Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur is the main gateway to Peninsular Malaysia while Kota Kinabalu serves East Malaysia. It’s also possible to fly directly to several international airports across the country including Penang, Melaka, Johor Bahru-Senai, Subang & Kuching.

Direct land and ferry connections are available from Singapore (via Johor Bahru), Indonesia (Kalimantan-East Malaysia) & Brunei (Bandar Seri Begawan-Sabah).

From the Philippines, from Manila fly to Kuala Lumpur on AirAsia, Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Malaysia Airlines. Travel time takes nearly 4 hours. Direct flights to KL are also available from Clark, Cebu & Kalibo. East Malaysia bound travelers can take a direct flight from Manila to Kota Kinabalu (2 hours).

Malaysia Travel Essentials

KL Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket

Malaysia 4G Data SIM Card (MY Pick up)

See more : Malaysia travel tips

20 Things to do in Malaysia + Tourist Spots

See more of Asia

Why Taiwan? For one, it’s easy to find cheap flights from major cities in Asia including Manila & Cebu in the Philippines. Taiwan’s decision to offer visa-free entry for Pinoy travelers was also a big reason why I went on my first trip. The capital, Taipei, is a bustling cosmopolitan city with a relaxed vibe. It’s home to the iconic Taipei 101 and offers an exciting food scene, night markets, temples & heritage sites as well as lots of beautiful natural sights nearby. It’s also worth mentioning that Taiwan is an affordable destination to visit, especially compared to similarly developed destinations in the region like Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and South Korea.

Taiwan Travel Essentials

Taiwan 4G Unli Internet/Data Pocket Wifi

Yehliu-Shifen-Jiufen Shuttle Bus from Ximen

Taipei 101 Observatory Admission Ticket

See more : Taiwan travel tips

Landlocked Laos is not the easiest to get to in Southeast Asia. Most travelers arrive here on land border crossings from Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. But don’t miss it if you want to avoid crowded cities, enjoy extremely laid-back countrysides, and see pristine natural sights. Go north if you want to visit Laos’ popular tourist spots including sacred Buddhist temples, old French-colonial heritage districts, and gorgeous riverside scenery. Make your way down south for majestic waterfalls, spectacular caves, and thousands of river islands where you can experience life in the countryside.

Laos Travel Essentials

Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang Shuttle – Shared City Transfers

Pak Ou Cave & Kuang Si Waterfall Day Tour from Luang Prabang

Vientiane – Vang Vieng Shuttle – Shared City Transfers

See more : Laos travel tips

Brunei is a small yet wealthy nation, known for having the largest oil fields in Southeast Asia one of the world’s highest standards of living. Laid-back capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, gleams with magnificent mosques that contrast with a massive stilt house water village and lush mangrove forests nearby.

Brunei is easy to visit by flying to Brunei International Airport. Flight duration from Manila to Brunei is 2 hours. Ferry and land travel between Kota Kinabalu and Brunei is also very popular. The sea journey takes around 4 hours minimum, while the bus takes around 7 hours.

Brunei Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

Brunei Half Day City Tour in Bandar Seri Begawan

Half Day City & Water Village Tour in Brunei

Proboscis Monkey Encounter Tour in Brunei

See more : Brunei travel tips

6 Things to do in Brunei + Tourist Spots

16. Macau, China

Very compact and easy to get around, the resort city-state of Macau offers a fascinating mix of city attractions, well-preserved Portuguese-colonial heritage sites and delicious local Macanese food. If you’re visiting Hong Kong, then a trip to Macau is highly recommended as the ferry & land crossing only takes an hour.

Macau Travel Essentials

Gondola Rides at The Venetian Macau

Macau Tower Admission Ticket

Macau Open-Top Bus Tour

See more : Macau, China travel tips

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Asia that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Asia

Asia tourist spots, things to do in Asia, where to go in Asia & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

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Best Asian Countries to Visit: The Ultimate Guide for Every Traveler!

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

Asia, the world’s largest and most diverse continent, boasts a rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and experiences.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a beach bum, or a culinary explorer, this guide to the best Asian countries to visit will cater to every traveler’s whim.

Dive deep into the treasures of the East, uncover hidden gems, and embark on unforgettable journeys as we guide you through the vibrant mosaic that is Asia.

For the History Buff

Asia is a treasure trove of historical wonders, from ancient empires and majestic temples to battle-scarred landscapes.

The stories of millennia are etched in the stones, monuments, and the very soul of this continent. Here are some of the best Asian countries to visit for those hungry for a historical journey.

Great Wall: Stretching thousands of miles, it’s a testament to ancient Chinese engineering and resilience.
Forbidden City: Once the imperial palace, it holds the essence of China’s regal past.
Terracotta Army : An underground army in Xi’an, revealing the grandeur of the first emperor’s vision.
Taj Mahal: A marble marvel in Agra, symbolizing eternal love and architectural brilliance.
Temples of Khajuraho: Celebrated for their intricate sculptures and erotic carvings, these temples are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Forts of Rajasthan: Wander through Amer Fort, Mehrangarh, and Chittorgarh to experience the valor of Rajput warriors.
Angkor Wat: The largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat is a breathtaking blend of symmetry and spirituality.
Bayon: Renowned for its massive stone faces, it paints a picture of King Jayavarman VII’s vision.
Cu Chi Tunnels: Navigate this underground network which played a crucial role during the Vietnam War, showcasing the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese.
Hue Imperial City: Dive into Vietnam’s regal past with this vast complex of palaces, walls, and gates.

For those with an insatiable thirst for history, these are but a few of the jewels in Asia’s vast historical crown.

As you traverse through these best Asian countries to visit, you’ll unravel stories of triumph, tragedy, love, and war, etching memories that’ll last a lifetime.

For the Beach Lover

Asia, with its extensive coastline and myriad of islands, is a paradise for those who dream of sandy shores and azure waters. From secluded bays to bustling beach towns, Asia offers an array of sun-soaked experiences.

If you’re yearning for the rhythmic sound of waves and the warmth of golden sands, here are the best Asian countries to visit:

Phuket : Thailand’s largest island, renowned for its vibrant nightlife, water sports, and gorgeous beaches like Patong and Kata.
Koh Samui: A tropical haven with palm-fringed beaches, luxury resorts, and a laid-back charm.
Phi Phi Islands: Famous for their dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, these islands were immortalized in the movie “The Beach”.
Bali : Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali offers a perfect mix of culture and natural beauty, with beaches like Seminyak and Kuta.
Gili Islands: A trio of coral-fringed islands boasting turquoise waters and a car-free environment.
Komodo Island: Beyond its famous dragons, this island also offers Pink Beach, one of only seven pink sand beaches in the world.

Philippines

Palawan: Home to the breathtaking El Nido and Coron, it offers a combination of limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and pristine waters.
Boracay: With its powdery white sand and vibrant nightlife, it’s a favorite among beachgoers.
Siargao: A surfer’s paradise, this teardrop-shaped island is famed for its waves, lagoons, and laid-back vibe.
Overwater Bungalows: Experience luxury atop the Indian Ocean in these iconic structures, offering direct access to shimmering waters.
Coral Reefs: Dive into a world of vibrant marine life and explore the underwater beauty of this tropical paradise.

For the beach aficionado, Asia provides an array of choices, from untouched paradises to bustling coastal cities.

As you explore the best Asian countries to visit for beach bliss, let the waves wash away your worries, and the sun kiss your soul.

For the Nature and Wildlife Enthusiast

Asia, with its varied topographies and biodiverse habitats, is a playground for those seeking nature’s marvels and wildlife encounters. From snow-capped peaks to dense rainforests, Asia promises adventures that will leave nature lovers in awe.

If you’re captivated by the call of the wild and nature’s unspoiled beauty, here are the best Asian countries to visit:

Himalayas: Trek to the base camps of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest, for breathtaking panoramas.
Chitwan National Park: Hop on a jungle safari to spot rhinos, Bengal tigers, and a myriad of bird species in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Borneo (Malaysia & Indonesia)

Rainforests: Wander through some of the world’s oldest rainforests, experiencing a symphony of sounds from diverse wildlife.
Orangutans: Witness the majestic “men of the forest” in their natural habitat, swinging through trees and nurturing their young.
Diverse Marine Life: Dive into the waters of Sipadan and encounter turtles, sharks, and a rainbow of coral fish.
Yala National Park: Go on a safari to spot the elusive leopard, elephants, and crocodiles amidst dense forests and grassy plains.
Whale Watching in Mirissa: Get aboard a boat to spot the giants of the ocean, including blue whales and playful dolphins.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve: Discover a UNESCO World Heritage rainforest, home to endemic species and lush green canopies.
Cherry Blossoms: Revel in the pink and white hues of sakura season, especially in Kyoto and Tokyo, marking the onset of spring.
Mount Fuji: Climb or admire this iconic symmetrical volcano, also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Nara Deer Park: Interact with the friendly deer, considered national treasures and a symbol of the city of Nara.

For those with a heart rooted in nature and an eye keen on wildlife, Asia is a canvas of unparalleled beauty and diversity. In exploring the best Asian countries to visit, you’ll uncover moments of wonder, from the gentle gaze of a wild animal to the serene embrace of untouched landscapes.

For the Urban Explorer and Shopaholic

Asia’s urban landscapes are a mesmerizing blend of the ancient and the ultra-modern. Glittering skyscrapers stand alongside historic temples, while bustling markets compete with mega-malls for the attention of shopaholics.

For those who thrive in the energetic heartbeat of a city and can’t resist the lure of shopping, here are the best Asian countries to visit:

Tokyo : Wander through districts like Shibuya and Shinjuku, marveling at the neon lights and experiencing the controlled chaos. Dive into shopping havens like Ginza and Harajuku for both high-end brands and quirky fashion.
Osaka: Explore the Dotonbori area, taking in its vibrant nightlife. For shopping enthusiasts, Shinsaibashi offers a plethora of choices.
Kyoto: A harmonious blend of the past and present. While it’s known for its temples, areas like Kawaramachi are shopper’s delights.

South Korea

Seoul: Navigate through the futuristic cityscape of Gangnam, or wander in historic Bukchon Hanok Village. For shoppers, Myeongdong is a paradise of cosmetics and fashion, while Dongdaemun offers endless shopping hours.
Busan: Revel in the coastal city’s beaches and modern architecture. Centum City houses the world’s largest department store for the ultimate shopping experience.
Marina Bay Sands: Not only an architectural marvel but also a shopping and entertainment hub.
Gardens by the Bay: A futuristic park that showcases what urban nature should look like.
Orchard Road: A 2.2-kilometer stretch of shopping euphoria, offering everything from luxury brands to street markets.
Dubai : Home to the iconic Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall (one of the world’s largest shopping centers), and a plethora of luxury boutiques. The Gold Souk offers a traditional shopping experience.
Abu Dhabi : Marvel at the modern marvels like the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Yas Mall provides a premier shopping experience with international brands and local designers.

For the urban aficionado and the discerning shopper, Asia’s cities are a dream. In these best Asian countries to visit, the juxtaposition of history and modernity offers a rich tapestry of experiences, ensuring every cityscape leaves an indelible mark on your heart.

Several people eating from a plate of food

For the Foodie

Asia is often touted as a food lover’s paradise. With an amalgamation of flavors, techniques, and ingredients, its diverse culinary landscape is a gastronomic adventure waiting to be explored.

If your travels are driven by your palate, and the thrill of discovering new tastes excites you, here are the best Asian countries to visit:

Sushi: Taste this art form in Tokyo’s upscale Ginza district or even in local markets like Tsukiji.
Ramen: Slurp on this hearty noodle soup in the alleys of Fukuoka or the bustling streets of Osaka.
Tempura: Delight in this deep-fried delicacy, best enjoyed in specialized restaurants in Kyoto.
Curries: Dive into the rich gravies of North Indian dishes in Delhi or the coastal flavors of Goan curries.
Biryani: Relish this fragrant rice dish, with its regional variations in Hyderabad, Lucknow, or Kolkata.
Street Food: From Mumbai’s chaats to the kachoris of Jaipur, Indian street food is a journey in itself.
Pad Thai: Savor this stir-fried noodle dish, best enjoyed on the streets of Bangkok.
Green Curry: Dive into the rich and aromatic flavors of this spicy dish, prevalent across the country.
Mango Sticky Rice: Indulge in this sweet treat, a perfect balance of creamy coconut milk, ripe mangoes, and glutinous rice.
Pho: Warm your soul with this noodle soup, tasting the authentic flavors in the streets of Hanoi.
Banh Mi: Bite into this French-influenced sandwich, filled with a variety of meats and pickles, best enjoyed in Ho Chi Minh City.
Spring Rolls: Relish the freshness of these rolls, both in their fried and fresh versions, throughout the country.

For the culinary explorer, every meal in Asia is an adventure, a story, a celebration. In these best Asian countries to visit, food is not just sustenance; it’s a window into the soul of the culture, the history of the people, and the love of generations.

For the Spiritual Seeker

Asia, with its millennia-old traditions and spiritual practices, has long been a beacon for those in search of inner peace and enlightenment. Its sacred spaces, ancient rituals, and spiritual teachings offer a path to self-discovery and transcendence.

For those who yearn to connect with their inner selves, seeking solace and insight, here are the best Asian countries to visit:

Varanasi: Bathed in the spiritual aura of the River Ganges, it’s a place where life and death coexist. Experience the divine energy during the evening Ganga Aarti.
Rishikesh: Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, find spiritual retreats, meditation classes, and the serene beauty of the Himalayan foothills.
Bodh Gaya: Sit under the Bodhi Tree, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, absorbing the tranquility and sacred energy.
Lumbini: Visit the birthplace of Lord Buddha, meditating amidst ancient ruins and monasteries.
Monasteries: Engage with Tibetan Buddhist practices, interact with monks, and attend prayer sessions in places like Boudhanath and Swayambhunath.
Spiritual Treks: Journey through paths less traveled, like the Annapurna Circuit, which is as much a spiritual quest as it is a physical challenge.
Bagan: Traverse this ancient city dotted with thousands of pagodas, temples, and monasteries, each narrating tales of devotion.
Golden Rock: A pilgrimage site, this gold-leaf covered rock, balanced precariously on a cliff edge, is said to be held in place by a strand of Buddha’s hair.
Shwedagon Pagoda: Immerse in the golden glow of this 2,500-year-old pagoda in Yangon, a testament to Myanmar’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Tiger’s Nest: Perched on a cliff, this monastery is not just an architectural wonder but also a place of profound spiritual significance.
Monastic Festivals: Participate in the vibrant tshechus, where masked dances and rituals connect the material to the spiritual.
Gross National Happiness: Learn about Bhutan’s unique approach to life and governance, prioritizing spiritual well-being over material growth.

For the spiritual seeker, Asia offers a mosaic of experiences, each leading to profound realizations and deeper connections. In these best Asian countries to visit, the journey within becomes as enriching as the journey across its landscapes.

For the Adventure Junkie

Asia’s vast and varied landscapes provide a backdrop for some of the world’s most exhilarating adventures.

From scaling towering peaks to plunging into the depths of the ocean, this continent promises to challenge and thrill in equal measure. For those with a spirit that thrives on adrenaline and exploration, here are the best Asian countries to visit:

Gobi Desert: Embark on a camel trek across this vast, barren expanse, experiencing the life of the nomads and the haunting beauty of sand dunes.
Horse Riding: Traverse the Mongolian steppes on horseback, embracing the nation’s equestrian heritage.
Nomadic Culture: Experience the traditional Naadam Festival, showcasing the “Three Manly Sports”: wrestling, horse racing, and archery.

New Zealand

Bungee Jumping: Take the leap in Queenstown, the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping, from iconic spots like the Kawarau Bridge.
Caving: Delve into the Waitomo Caves, exploring stunning limestone formations and encountering glow-worms.
Extreme Sports: Indulge in skydiving, white-water rafting, and jet boating, making the most of New Zealand’s diverse terrains.
White-water Rafting: Challenge the fierce rapids of rivers like the Trishuli and Bhote Koshi, surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.
Paragliding: Soar over the picturesque town of Pokhara, getting a bird’s-eye view of the Himalayan peaks and serene Phewa Lake.
Everest Skydive: Experience one of the world’s highest skydives, jumping over the Everest region, for an unparalleled adrenaline rush.
Tubing: Float down the Nam Song River in Vang Vieng, surrounded by karst landscapes, making occasional stops at riverside bars.
Jungle Treks: Embark on treks in northern Laos, navigating dense forests, remote hill tribes, and hidden waterfalls.
Cave Exploring: Discover the Tham Kong Lo, a 7 km long cave, navigating its dark recesses by boat.

For the undaunted adventure junkie, Asia’s horizons are limitless. In these best Asian countries to visit, every challenge conquered and every fear faced adds a new chapter to your personal tale of adventure.

For the Luxury Traveler

Asia, with its blend of ancient traditions and modern advancements, is home to some of the world’s most luxurious experiences. From palace-like accommodations to personalized services, the continent knows how to pamper those with a taste for the finer things in life.

For those seeking elegance, comfort, and exclusivity, here are the best Asian countries to visit:

Dubai : Experience the epitome of luxury with hotels like the Burj Al Arab, shop in upscale malls, and dine in gourmet restaurants overlooking the city’s futuristic skyline.
Desert Resorts: Retreat to palatial desert resorts like the Al Maha, offering private pools, desert safaris, and stargazing experiences.
Fine Dining: Enjoy a culinary journey at Pierchic or dine in the world’s highest restaurant, At.mosphere, in the Burj Khalifa.
Private Island Resorts: Escape to exclusive havens like Soneva Fushi or One&Only Reethi Rah, where overwater bungalows, private butlers, and azure waters await.
Underwater Dining: Immerse in a unique experience at Ithaa or Subsix, enjoying gourmet dishes as marine life glides by.
Spa Retreats: Indulge in world-class spa treatments, some set underwater or amidst tropical greenery, rejuvenating mind, body, and soul.
Five-Star Resorts in Phuket: Luxuriate in resorts like Amanpuri or the Banyan Tree, offering private villas, beachfront views, and personalized services.
Luxury Villas in Koh Samui: Experience the blend of Thai hospitality and opulence in places like the Four Seasons or W Retreat.
Exclusive Yacht Charters: Sail the Andaman Sea on private yachts, accessing secluded beaches and diving spots.
Palace Hotels in Rajasthan: Stay in regal splendor in converted palaces like the Udaivilas in Udaipur or the Rambagh Palace in Jaipur.
Luxury Train Journeys: Board the Maharajas’ Express or the Palace on Wheels, traveling through India’s landscapes while enjoying royal treatment.
Private Retreats in the Himalayas: Escape to secluded luxury resorts like the Oberoi Wildflower Hall, offering panoramic mountain views and world-class spas.

For the discerning luxury traveler, Asia promises unparalleled refinement and relaxation. In these best Asian countries to visit, luxury is not just about opulence; it’s about curated experiences, rich histories, and impeccable service that leaves you feeling like royalty.

Best Asia Cruises

Sailing through the waters of Asia provides a unique vantage point to explore its mesmerizing coastlines, ancient ports, and modern metropolises.

From the bustling harbors of Singapore to the tranquil bays of Vietnam, cruising in Asia is an experience of a lifetime. For those who wish to journey across the waters of this vast continent, here are some of the best Asia all-inclusive cruises to consider:

Southeast Asia Cruises

Mekong River Cruises: Navigate the lifeblood of Southeast Asia, exploring the vibrant cities, rural landscapes, and ancient temples of Vietnam and Cambodia.
Star Clippers in Thailand: Sail aboard tall ships, exploring the Andaman Sea’s turquoise waters, hidden lagoons, and stunning beaches.
Singapore to Hong Kong: Experience a blend of traditional and modern Asia, stopping at ports like Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, and Halong Bay.

East Asia Cruises

Japan Explorer with Princess Cruises : Revel in the beauty of cherry blossoms, ancient temples, and bustling cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima.
China’s Yangtze River with Viking River Cruises : Journey through the heart of China, witnessing the breathtaking Three Gorges, ancient villages, and the bustling city of Shanghai.
South Korea and Japan with Royal Caribbean : Explore dynamic cities like Busan and Fukuoka while enjoying world-class onboard entertainment and amenities.

Indian Ocean Cruises

Maldives with Variety Cruises: Experience paradise on a yacht, hopping between coral islands, turquoise lagoons, and pristine beaches.
Mumbai to Colombo with Azamara: Dive deep into the cultural tapestry of India and Sri Lanka, exploring ancient temples, colonial ports, and vibrant bazaars.

Expedition Cruises

Indonesian Archipelago with Ponant: Venture into the remote islands of Indonesia, encountering Komodo dragons, traditional tribes, and underwater wonders.
Raja Ampat with Aqua Expeditions: Delve into one of the world’s richest marine biodiversities, experiencing pristine coral reefs, hidden caves, and untouched beaches.

For travelers looking to combine relaxation with exploration, Asia’s cruise offerings cater to a myriad of interests and tastes. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer , these voyages in the best Asian countries to visit promise memories that will last a lifetime.

Tips and Tricks for Traveling in Asia

Asia, with its vastness and diversity, can be both enchanting and overwhelming.

To ensure that your journey is smooth, fulfilling, and memorable, here are some essential traveling tips and tricks to keep in mind when traversing the best Asian countries to visit:

1. Research the Best Times to Visit

Asia’s climate can vary greatly, from monsoons to dry seasons. Researching beforehand ensures you experience the region at its best.

2. Respect Cultural Etiquette

Dress Appropriately: Especially in religious sites. Many temples and mosques require modest attire.
Greetings: Understand local greetings. For instance, a bow in Japan or the “wai” in Thailand.
Shoes: It’s common to remove shoes before entering someone’s home and even certain businesses or accommodations.

3. Learn Basic Local Phrases

While English is spoken in many tourist areas, knowing simple phrases in the local language can enrich your interactions and is often appreciated.

4. Be Cautious with Street Food

Street food is a highlight in many Asian countries. However, choose stalls that are popular with locals and ensure the food is freshly cooked.

5. Embrace Local Transportation

From tuk-tuks in Thailand to rickshaws in India, using local transport not only is cost-effective but also adds to the authentic experience.

6. Always Negotiate

Bargaining is a norm in many Asian markets. Start by offering half the asking price and negotiate from there, but always do so respectfully.

7. Stay Connected

SIM cards are often cheap and easily available. Having a local number can be handy for bookings, navigation, and emergencies.

8. Prioritize Safety

While most of Asia is safe for travelers, always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places, to avoid pickpockets.

9. Pack Light and Versatile

Many Asian destinations are known for affordable shopping. Packing light gives you the flexibility to buy items during your trip.

10. Embrace the Unexpected

Part of the beauty of traveling in Asia is the unexpected. Whether it’s an unplanned festival, a local inviting you for tea, or a sudden change in plans due to weather – go with the flow.

11. Stay Hydrated and Protect from the Sun

The Asian sun can be relentless. Carry a water bottle, wear sunscreen, and use hats or umbrellas when exploring.

12. Research Local Scams

As with many tourist destinations, there might be local scams targeting travelers. Being aware of common ones can save you time and money.

Exploring Asia is a journey of discovery, both external and internal. While it’s essential to be prepared, it’s equally crucial to stay open to the myriad of experiences that come your way. With these tips and tricks, you’re better equipped to navigate the vibrant tapestry that is Asia.

Asia, in its grandeur and diversity, offers a kaleidoscope of experiences, landscapes, and emotions. Whether you’re seeking the adrenaline of new adventures, the serenity of spiritual sites, the allure of luxury, or the simplicity of authentic local interactions, this vast continent beckons with open arms.

As you consider embarking on your journey through the best Asian countries to visit, remember that every step taken, every flavor savored, and every soul met adds a unique thread to the intricate tapestry of your memories. Here’s to adventures that linger in the heart long after they’re lived.

FAQs on Best Asian Countries to Visit

1. What is the best time of year to visit Asia?

Asia is vast and diverse, with varying climates. Generally, the cooler months from November to March are popular for Southeast Asia, while spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal for East Asia. Always check the specific country’s climate before planning.

2. Is it safe to travel solo in Asia?

Yes, many regions in Asia are safe for solo travelers, including women. Common sense, respecting local customs, and staying aware of one’s surroundings are always advisable.

3. Do I need to get vaccinations before traveling to Asia?

Depending on the country and region, certain vaccinations may be recommended or required. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic at least 6-8 weeks before departure.

4. Can I use credit cards throughout Asia?

In major cities and tourist spots, credit cards are widely accepted. However, in remote areas or smaller establishments, cash is preferable. Always carry some local currency.

5. What are the visa requirements for traveling in Asia?

Visa requirements vary by country and your nationality. Some countries offer visa-on-arrival or e-visas, while others require a visa in advance. Always check the official embassy website of the country you’re visiting.

6. How do I deal with language barriers in Asia?

English is spoken in many tourist areas. Learning basic local phrases, using translation apps, and carrying a phrasebook can be helpful. Often, gestures and a smile can go a long way!

7. Is tap water safe to drink in Asia?

In many Asian countries, tap water isn’t recommended for consumption. It’s best to drink bottled or boiled water. Also, consider using a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter.

8. How can I stay connected while traveling in Asia?

Many Asian countries offer affordable SIM cards with good data coverage. Wi-Fi is also commonly available in hotels, cafes, and some public areas.

9. What should I pack for my trip to Asia?

While specific items depend on your destination and activities, lightweight clothing, comfortable footwear, a hat, sunscreen, universal adapter, and a basic first-aid kit are essentials.

10. Is vegetarian or vegan food available in Asia?

Absolutely! Many Asian cuisines have a rich array of vegetarian and vegan dishes. However, it’s a good idea to learn how to say “vegetarian” or “vegan” in the local language and double-check ingredients, especially in sauces or broths.

11. What are some local customs or etiquettes I should be aware of?

Customs vary by country. Common practices include removing shoes before entering homes or religious sites, avoiding touching heads in Buddhist cultures, and using both hands when giving or receiving items in countries like South Korea.

12. Can I drive in Asia with my home country’s driving license?

Some Asian countries accept International Driving Permits (IDP) alongside your home license. Always check specific country regulations and consider local traffic conditions before deciding to drive.

13. Are there any specific health concerns in Asia?

Apart from the standard travel vaccinations, be cautious about mosquito-borne diseases like dengue or malaria in certain regions. Carry repellents and wear protective clothing.

14. How do tipping practices work in Asia?

Tipping isn’t as widespread in Asia as in the West. In many countries, it’s not expected, and in some places, it might even be considered rude. However, in tourist-heavy areas or luxury establishments, tipping can be more common. It’s best to research specific country practices.

15. What’s the general approach to bargaining in markets?

Bargaining is common and often expected in many Asian markets. Always do so politely and with a smile. If unsure about the price, check a few stalls before finalizing a purchase.

16. Are there any clothing considerations for travelers?

Modesty is valued in many Asian cultures, especially when visiting religious sites. Light, breathable, and modest clothing is recommended. Additionally, carrying a scarf or shawl can be handy for covering up when needed.

17. How reliable is public transportation in Asia?

Major cities like Tokyo, Singapore, and Hong Kong boast world-class public transportation. In other areas, the efficiency and comfort can vary. Researching in advance can help you navigate better.

18. Are there any wildlife considerations when traveling in Asia?

Absolutely. When visiting natural habitats or participating in wildlife-related activities, ensure they are ethical and do not harm or exploit animals. Avoid attractions that offer elephant rides or shows using animals.

19. Can I use my electronic devices in Asia?

Voltage and plug types vary across Asia. It’s recommended to carry a universal adapter. Also, ensure your devices support the voltage range (usually 110V-240V) to avoid damage.

20. How can I ensure my safety during natural calamities, given that some parts of Asia are prone to earthquakes or typhoons?

Stay informed by monitoring local news, heed warnings, and follow evacuation procedures if required. Choose accommodations that adhere to safety standards, and always be aware of emergency exits and evacuation routes.

Discover The 18 Best Asian Countries to Visit in 2024

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Home » Discover The 18 Best Asian Countries to Visit in 2024

Are you looking for a unique and exciting travel experience?

Asia is the perfect destination for first-time travelers, with its diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine.

From bustling cities to serene beaches, there’s something in Asia for everyone.

Whether it’s exploring ancient temples in Thailand, tasting flavorful street food in Vietnam, or witnessing the beauty of India’s Taj Mahal, these are just some of the many amazing experiences that await you when visiting Asian countries.

Here we’ll introduce 18 of the best countries to visit across Asia!

So get ready to explore this vast continent full of wonders and surprises!

18 Best Asian Countries to Visit

Asia is a continent full of adventure and beauty, with countries that offer something for everyone.

From ancient temples to vibrant cities, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and experience the culture.

Here we’ll introduce 18 of the best Asian countries to visit!

1. Thailand

Thailand is one of the most popular countries to visit in Asia (it is also our favorite Asian destination to visit with our kids ). With its tropical climate, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder why.

From the hustle and bustle of Bangkok to the picturesque islands of the south, Thailand offers something for everyone.

Whether you want to explore bustling city markets or take a relaxing boat ride, Thailand is the perfect spot for your next holiday.

Best Places to Visit in Thailand for First-Timers

Here is a list of the best places to visit on your first trip to Thailand :

Bangkok : Experience the city’s vibrant nightlife and explore its ancient temples.
Ayutthaya : Witness the ruins of the once-great kingdom of Siam.
Phuket : Lounge on some of Thailand’s best beaches and take in the stunning scenery.
Koh Phi Phi: Go on a boat tour to explore the stunning islands of this archipelago.
Chiang Mai: Explore the city’s ancient temples and go on an adventurous trek through the mountains.
Koh Samui : With its white sand beaches, crystal clear water, and lush tropical rainforests, it’s the perfect place for a holiday.

Japan is one of the most popular destinations in Asia, and it’s easy to see why.

From its bustling cities such as Tokyo and Osaka to its beautiful natural scenery like Mount Fuji or Miyajima Island, Japan has something for everyone.

The country is also renowned for its blend of traditional and modern culture, from ancient temples and samurai castles to its cutting-edge technology.

And for foodies, Japan is a paradise with its array of sushi and ramen restaurants as well as unique delights like takoyaki (octopus balls).

Best Places to Visit in Japan for First-Timers

Here is a list of the best places to visit on your first trip to Japan :

Tokyo : Explore the city’s hidden alleyways and indulge in its unique cuisine.
Kyoto : Wander the city’s many temples and markets, and take in its traditional culture.
Osaka : Get a taste of Japan’s nightlife and visit the iconic Osaka Castle.
Miyajima : Visit one of Japan’s most sacred shrines, Itsukushima Shrine, located on an island in the Inland Sea.
Hakone: Take a walk around this beautiful lakeside town or soak in a natural hot spring.
Hiroshima: Visit the Atomic Bomb Memorial Park and learn about Japan’s complex history.
Nara: Admire the giant Buddha statue and explore its many shrines, temples, and parks.

Best time to visit Vietnam - Hoi An old Town Vietnam

Vietnam is a great country to explore if you’re looking for an adventure in Asia.

From the breathtaking mountain scenery of Sapa to the historical monuments of Hue and Hoi An, Vietnam has something for everyone.

Foodies will love trying out all the delicious local dishes, while history buffs can explore the many ancient sites.

Best Places to Visit in Vietnam for First-Timers

Here is a list of the best places to visit on your first trip to Vietnam :

Hanoi : Experience the bustling city life and take a walk around the Old Quarter.
Sapa : Hike up the mountains and explore this stunning region.
Ha Long Bay : Take a cruise around the world-famous bay and admire its limestone formations.
Hue: Explore the ancient royal city and visit some of its imperial tombs.
Ho Chi Minh City : Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and shop in its bustling markets.
Mui Ne: Relax on its beautiful beaches or go sandboarding in the impressive red sand dunes.
Nha Trang: Visit some of the world’s best beaches and explore its many attractions.
Hoi An : Wander the ancient city and visit its many temples, churches, and markets.

4. Cambodia

Things to See in Cambodia - Angkor Wat Temples with Kids

Cambodia is a beautiful country to explore and offers stunning temples, breathtaking beaches, and lush jungles.

As one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia, Cambodia has something for everyone.

History buffs will love exploring its ancient temples, while nature lovers can marvel at its jungle-clad mountains.

Best Places to Visit in Cambodia for First-Timers

Here is a list of the best places to visit on your first trip to Cambodia :

Siem Reap : Get lost among the incredible ruins of Angkor Wat and explore its many temples.
Battambang: Learn about Cambodian history at Battambang Museum and take in its local culture.
Kampot : Take a boat ride down the river and explore its many caves.
Sihanoukville or Otres Beach : Lounge on some of Cambodia’s best beaches and go diving to explore its coral reefs.
Koh Rong Islands : Head out on an island-hopping adventure and marvel at its stunning landscape.
Phnom Penh: Explore the capital city and get a taste of its bustling nightlife.

China is an absolute must-visit for any traveler looking to explore the Far East.

From its bustling cities to its breathtaking mountain ranges, it’s a destination that offers something for everyone.

In the cities, you can wander through temples and markets, marvel at skyscrapers and take part in all the nightlife activities on offer.

Whereas, in the countryside, you can explore ancient towns and villages, hike through lush forests or take a cruise along the powerful Yangtze River.

And when it comes to food, China offers an overwhelming variety of delicious dishes both traditional and modern.

Be sure to try out Peking Duck if you get a chance!

Best Places to Visit in China for First-Timers

Here is a list of the best places to visit on your first trip to China:

Beijing: See the iconic Forbidden City and take a walk on the Great Wall of China.
Xi’an: Explore the city’s famous Muslim Quarter and visit the Terracotta Warriors.
Guilin: Take a cruise down Li River and marvel at its stunning scenery.
Shanghai: Enjoy the vibrant city life and explore its many attractions.
Huangshan: Trek up one of China’s most beautiful mountains and enjoy the stunning views.
Chengdu: Visit the world-famous Giant Panda Breeding Centre and take a walk around People’s Park.
Hong Kong: Shop in its bustling markets and take a ride on the famous Star Ferry.

India is an amazing country to explore if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Asia.

With its vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and friendly people, India is a place like no other.

You can explore bustling cities such as Delhi and Mumbai, or take a spiritual journey to the sacred sites of Varanasi.

Best Places to Visit in India for First-Timers

Here is a list of the best places to visit on your first trip to India:

Delhi: Explore the city’s many attractions such as the Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, and the Qutub Minar.
Agra: Visit the Taj Mahal and learn about India’s rich history.
Jaipur: Explore the Pink City and admire its many monuments and temples.
Varanasi: Take a spiritual journey to the banks of the Ganges River.
Udaipur: Visit the iconic City Palace and explore some of India’s most beautiful lakes.
Goa : Enjoy its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. Find the best places to visit in Goa with your family here.
Kerala : Take a backwater cruise and explore its lush forests and spice plantations.
Rajasthan: Admire the stunning forts and palaces of the Golden Triangle.
Mumbai: Explore its many attractions such as Gateway of India and Marine Drive.

7. Indonesia

Indonesia is one of the most diverse countries in Asia and it’s quickly becoming a top destination for travelers.

From its turquoise beaches to its towering volcanoes, Indonesia offers something for everyone.

Plus, with over 17,000 islands there’s plenty of opportunity to explore and experience new cultures.

When in Indonesia, be sure to check out some of its natural wonders such as Borobudur Temple and Ijen Crater.

You can also take part in the country’s unique cuisine which includes dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice) and gado-gado (vegetable salad).

Best Places to Visit in Indonesia for First-Timers

Here is a list of the best places to visit on your first trip to Indonesia:

Bali : Enjoy its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and incredible surfing spots.
Yogyakarta: Visit some of Indonesia’s most famous temples such as Borobudur and Prambanan.
Lombok : Admire the stunning landscape of Mount Rinjani and visit Gili Islands.
Raja Ampat: Take a cruise around Raja Ampat’s stunning islands and explore its many caves.
Sumatra: Admire the incredible wildlife at Bukit Lawang and take a stroll around Lake Toba.

Jordan is an exciting country to visit in Asia, and it has a lot to offer visitors.

From the ancient city of Petra and majestic desert landscapes to the vibrant culture of Amman, Jordan is a unique destination that will leave you with lasting memories.

Some of the must-see sights include Wadi Rum, Jerash, and Mount Nebo—all of which offer breathtaking views and a deep dive into the country’s history.

Best Places to Visit in Jordan for First-Timers

Here is a list of the best places to visit on your first trip to Jordan:

Petra: Explore the ancient Nabataean city, carved directly into rose-hued sandstone.
Wadi Rum: Take a jeep tour of the stunning desert landscape, and visit some of its hidden gems.
Dead Sea: Float in the saltiest body of water in the world, and take advantage of its restorative benefits.
Aqaba: Relax on one of Jordan’s best beaches while admiring the Gulf of Aqaba.
Mount Nebo: Visit this religious site, and marvel at its views of the Holy Land.
Jerash: Admire the intricate Roman architecture, and explore its many ruins.

9. The Philippines

Sumilon island beach near Oslob, Cebu, Philippines

A visit to the Philippines is sure to be an unforgettable experience. For those looking for some winter sun, the Philippines is one of the best destinations in January that delivers!

The islands are home to some of the friendliest people in the world, and their love for life and hospitality will win you over.

From pristine beaches, stunning coral reefs, and countless waterfalls, there’s plenty of natural beauty here waiting to be explored.

The country is also home to some of the best nightlife in Asia, and you can find a great range of bars and clubs for all kinds of music.

If you’re looking for an adventure, The Philippines offers plenty of opportunities for adrenaline-seekers.

Bungee jumping, white water rafting, mountain climbing, and scuba diving are all available here.

And don’t forget to try out the local delicacies like sticky rice and adobo!

Best Places to Visit in the Philippines for First-Timers

Here are some ideas of places to visit while you’re in the Philippines:

Boracay Island: This paradise island offers crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches.
Cebu City: Explore the bustling city, full of colorful markets and delicious cuisine.
Palawan: Take a boat ride to explore its hidden lagoons and limestone cliffs.
Manila: Admire the Spanish-style architecture, and explore the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Hundred Islands National Park: Take a dip in one of the stunning natural pools, and marvel at its crystal clear waters.
Siargao Island: Surround yourself with tropical beauty while exploring its many beaches, lagoons, and hidden coves.
Banaue Rice Terraces: Admire the majestic 2000-year-old terraces, and learn more about the history of this region.

10. South Korea

From the energetic cities of Seoul and Busan, to Jeju Island’s stunning natural beauty, South Korea has something for everyone.

If you’re looking for an urban experience then be sure to visit some of its fascinating museums, bustling night markets, and trendy cafes.

But if you want a more laid-back holiday then head outside the city and explore the country’s amazing landscapes, with its stunning national parks and beaches.

Korea is also renowned for its delicious cuisine, which includes a wide variety of dishes including bulgogi (barbecued beef), bibimbap (rice dish), and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).

And if you’re looking for a more traditional experience, then be sure to check out the country’s many Buddhist temples and cultural sites.

Best Places to Visit in South Korea for First-Timers:

Here are some ideas of places to visit while you’re in South Korea:

Seoul: There are plenty of things to do in Seoul , such as admiring its ancient palaces and temples.
Jeju Island: Enjoy the island’s stunning natural beauty, with its rugged coastline, lava tubes, and mountains.
Busan: Relax on one of its beaches or explore its vibrant nightlife.
Gyeongju: Marvel at the vast array of ruins from the Silla Dynasty.
Haeinsa Temple: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn more about the history of Buddhism in Korea.
Nami Island: Enjoy a pleasant stroll around this beautiful island, home to lush forests and running streams.
Andong: Explore its quaint traditional villages or visit the Hahoe Folk Village.
Jirisan National Park: Take a hike through its majestic mountains, and marvel at its stunning waterfalls.
Gwangalli Beach: Soak up the sun on one of Busan’s most popular beaches.
Gyeongbokgung Palace: Admire the grandeur of this impressive palace from the Joseon Dynasty.

11. Malaysia

Top Things to do in Melaka, Malacca, Malaysia

Located in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia has something for everyone.

The country is full of diverse cultures, ranging from Chinese and Indian influences to Malay and British colonial heritage.

And its varied landscapes range from lush rainforests to beautiful beaches, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a mix of urban and natural experiences.

Malaysia is known for its delicious food, which includes a variety of dishes from different cultures.

Indulge in some spicy Indian curries, savor the flavors of Chinese dim sum, or try out some local specialties like nasi lemak (coconut rice) and satay (grilled meat skewers).

Best Places to Visit in Malaysia for First-Timers

Here are some ideas of places to visit while you’re in Malaysia :

Kuala Lumpur : Explore the city’s many skyscrapers and luxurious malls.
Penang Island : Marvel at its British colonial heritage, with its gorgeous street art and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Perhentian Islands: Relax on its pristine beaches and explore the surrounding coral reefs.
Langkawi : Enjoy a scenic cable car ride up to Gunung Mat Chincang for some incredible views.
Kuching: Take a stroll around Sarawak’s vibrant capital city, with its colonial buildings and street markets.
Cameron Highlands: Explore its lush tea plantations, picturesque hills, and quaint villages.
Tioman Island: Relax on one of its beautiful beaches or explore the surrounding coral reefs.

12. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is often dubbed as the pearl of the Indian Ocean, and for good reason!

It’s full of stunning natural beauty, with its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and dramatic mountain ranges.

Plus, it offers a unique mix of cultures ranging from Hinduism to Buddhism which can be seen in the country’s ancient temples and villages.

Sri Lanka is also renowned for its delicious cuisine, which includes a variety of dishes from curries to rice and sambol (chili paste).

And if you’re looking for a more traditional experience, then be sure to check out the country’s many Buddhist sites such as Sigiriya Rock Fortress or Anuradhapura.

Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka for First-Timers

Here are some ideas of places to visit while you’re in Sri Lanka:

Colombo: Explore its vibrant city life, with its numerous street markets and luxury malls.
Kandy: Take a stroll around the city’s beautiful lake, and check out the Temple of the Tooth Relic.
Ella: Hike up to Ella Rock and take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Hikkaduwa: Relax on one of its golden beaches or explore its vibrant nightlife.
Arugam Bay: Surf some of the best waves in Asia or go on a safari to spot some of Sri Lanka’s incredible wildlife.
Polonnaruwa: Admire its ancient ruins, including the historic Gal Viharaya and Nissanka Latha Mandapaya Complex.
Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Climb up this impressive rock fortress and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Dambulla Cave Temple: Check out the impressive cave temple, which is home to some of Sri Lanka’s most ancient Buddhist artwork.

13. Maldives

The Maldives is an archipelago of over a thousand small islands located in the Indian Ocean.

It’s known for its stunning natural beauty, with its crystal-clear waters, tropical climate, and lush vegetation.

Plus, it offers some of the best beaches in the world, making it a perfect destination for those looking to relax and enjoy some sun.

The Maldives is also renowned for its luxurious resorts, which offer everything from overwater bungalows to spas and private beaches.

And if you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, there are plenty of activities like snorkeling and diving to explore the country’s vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine life.

Best Places to Visit in the Maldives for First-Timers:

Here are some ideas of places to visit while you’re in the Maldives:

Male City: Explore its vibrant city life, with its colorful markets and stunning views.
Hulhumale Beach: Relax on one of its gorgeous white-sand beaches or go for a swim in its turquoise waters.
Kuramathi Island: Marvel at its lush vegetation and stunning sunsets.
Gan Island: Check out the beautiful beaches and exotic wildlife, or take a boat ride to see some of its breathtaking coral formations.
Ari Atoll: Snorkel or dive to explore its vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine life.
Baa Atoll: Visit the unique UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, home to one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems.
Vaadhoo Island: Catch a glimpse of the famous “sea of stars” phenomenon at night.

14. Singapore

Singapore is a vibrant city-state located in Southeast Asia. It’s known for its modern architecture, lush gardens, and bustling nightlife.

Plus, it offers a mix of cultures which makes it an interesting destination to explore.

The country is also renowned for its delicious cuisine and the variety of food stalls dotted all over the city.

And if you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, there are plenty of activities like zip-lining and rock climbing to explore the city’s many parks and gardens.

Best Places to Visit in Singapore for First-Timers

Here are some ideas of places to visit while you’re in Singapore:

Universal Studios: Visit world-famous movie sets and attractions.
Chinatown: Stop by for some delicious local dishes, explore its colorful markets, or check out some of its ancient temples.
Sentosa Island: Relax on its beautiful beaches or go for a walk in the rainforest.
Gardens by the Bay: Take a stroll through its stunning gardens and admire the city’s skyline.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple: Explore this vibrant temple and learn about Buddha’s teachings.
There are also plenty of beautiful islands near Singapore that are worth visiting as well.

Nepal is a small landlocked country located in the Himalayas.

It’s known for its stunning natural beauty, with the snow-capped mountains of the Annapurna range and Mount Everest providing a breathtaking backdrop.

Plus, it offers plenty of opportunities to explore its unique culture and traditions.

The country is also renowned for its adventure activities.

From trekking to whitewater rafting, there are plenty of ways to explore Nepal’s stunning landscapes and learn about the local culture.

Best Places to Visit in Nepal for First-Timers

Here are some ideas of places to visit while you’re in Nepal:

Kathmandu Valley: Explore its ancient palaces, vibrant markets, and bustling streets.
Pokhara: Take a day trip to admire the stunning views of Phewa Lake or go hiking in the nearby hills.
Chitwan National Park: Go on a safari to spot tigers, rhinos, and elephants.
Annapurna Circuit : Take a trek to explore the stunning Himalayan scenery.
Nagarkot: Admire the views of the snow-capped mountains and catch a glimpse of Mount Everest in the distance.
Lumbini: Visit the birthplace of Lord Buddha.
Dhulikhel: Explore its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and local handicrafts.
Phoksundo Lake: Take a day trip to marvel at its turquoise waters and lush greenery.

Laos is a small landlocked country located in Southeast Asia.

It’s known for its incredible natural beauty, with lush jungles and majestic mountains providing a breathtaking backdrop.

The country is also renowned for its adventure activities, such as mountain biking and kayaking.

Plus, you can take a cruise on the Mekong River to admire its stunning scenery and learn about the local culture and customs of the river communities.

Best Places to Visit in Laos for First-Timers:

Here are some ideas of places to visit while you’re in Laos:

Vang Vieng: Go tubing down the Nam Song River and explore its towering limestone cliffs.
Luang Prabang: Take a stroll through its ancient temples, visit the traditional night markets, or take a boat ride to admire its stunning scenery.
Tham Kong Lo Cave: Explore this 7-kilometer-long cave and marvel at its stalactites and stalagmites.
Kuang Si Falls: Take a day trip to admire its cascading waterfalls and turquoise pools.
Tad Fane Waterfall: Visit this stunning two-tiered waterfall for breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle.

17. United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is a small country located in the Middle East.

It’s known for its stunning skyline, with towering skyscrapers and modern architecture providing a breathtaking backdrop.

The country is also renowned for its adventure activities, such as dune bashing and camel riding.

Plus, you can take a cruise on Dubai Creek to admire its stunning skyline and learn about the local culture and customs.

Best Places to Visit in U.A.E for First-Timers

Things to do in Dubai for 3 Days - Dubai 4WD

Here are some ideas of places to visit while you’re in the United Arab Emirates:

Dubai : Explore its bustling souks and towering skyscrapers, or take a cruise down Dubai Creek for breathtaking views.
Sharjah: Visit its traditional mosques, explore the stunning Sharjah Heritage District, or go shopping in the city’s vibrant markets.
Fujairah: Take a boat ride to admire its stunning coastline, explore traditional fishing villages, or go snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
Abu Dhabi : Admire the grand Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or visit its beautiful beaches.
Ras Al Khaimah: Take a day trip to marvel at its stunning desert scenery and heritage sites.

Turkey is a large country located in both Asia and Europe.

It’s known for its amazing natural beauty, with stunning coastlines, snow-capped mountains, and rolling hills providing a breathtaking backdrop.

The country is also renowned for its adventure activities, such as paragliding and hot air balloon rides.

Plus, you can take a cruise on the Bosphorus to admire its stunning scenery and learn about the local culture and customs of Istanbul’s historic city center.

Best Places to Visit in Turkey for First-Timers

Here are some ideas of places to visit while you’re in Turkey:

Istanbul: Visit its iconic Blue Mosque, explore the bustling Grand Bazaar, or go shopping in the city’s vibrant markets.
Cappadocia: Take a hot air balloon ride to admire its surreal rock formations, explore its ancient underground cities, or visit its traditional villages.
Ephesus: Marvel at its impressive ruins or take a boat ride down the Küçük Menderes River to admire its stunning scenery.
Pamukkale: Take a day trip to marvel at its natural hot springs and travertines.
Fethiye: Explore its ancient Lycian tombs or take a boat ride to admire its stunning coastline.

Final Thoughts On The Best Places To Visit In Asia

No matter where you go in Asia, there’s always something new to explore.

From vibrant cities and stunning nature reserves to traditional villages and cultural monuments – all of the countries on this list offer a unique experience.

So take some time to plan your trip to Asia and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Check out the best Asian airlines list to help you decide on which airline is best for your trip to Asia.

Jolene Ejmont

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14 Best Places to Visit in Asia

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Sep 24, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Asia is the largest continent by both size and population-a diverse, multicultural melting pot of some of the oldest civilizations on earth. There's so much to see and do in Asia, it's hard to narrow it down to a shortlist-it could take you months to truly explore just one country.

For those on a tighter schedule or budget, the secret to discovering the best places to travel in Asia is to see a bit of everything-from the skyscrapers of Hong Kong to the majestic slopes of Mount Fuji and the architectural marvel of places like Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

Regardless of what you truly want to experience in your travels through Asia, there's surely a spot somewhere to fill that need. To help you plan the trip of a lifetime, take a look at our list of the best places to visit in Asia.

1. Mount Fuji, Japan

2. dead sea, israel, 3. phuket, thailand, 4. beijing, china, 5. hoi an, vietnam, 6. hong kong, 7. angkor wat and siem reap, cambodia, 8. singapore, 9. kingdom of bhutan, 10. kathmandu, nepal, 11. jaipur, india, 12. luang prabang, laos, 13. bagan, myanmar, 14. bali, indonesia, map of places to visit in asia.

Although Mount Fuji is an active stratovolcano, it hasn't erupted since 1708. The stunning snowcapped mountain is one of Japan's "Three Holy Mountains," which are traditionally considered to hold a particular power-Mount Fuji has volcanic power.

If this doesn't sound ominous enough, the base of the mountain is also home to Aokigahara. Also known as "The Suicide Forest," this dense forest growing on hardened lava is home to ice caves, a combination that absorbs sound and creates an eerie feeling of solitude.

While many visitors come here to just photograph this World Heritage List Cultural Site and well-known symbol of Japan, others arrive for the climbing opportunities. Until the late 19 th century, women were not allowed to make their way to the summit (which is still considered a sacred site), so visitors of all ethnicities, genders, and ages now arrive to make up for lost time.

There are four possible routes to reach the top of the mountain , and all offer a number of stops along the way in the form of shrines, historical monuments, and even teahouses.

You may also want to plan your visit to Japan around the spring cherry blossoms, another popular tourist attraction.

Read More: Exploring Mount Fuji: A Visitor's Guide

The dark blue waters of the Dead Sea touch the borders of both Jordan and Israel. Actually a lake despite its name, the Dead Sea sits at the lowest land elevation on Earth -over 430 meters below sea level. With a salt concentration of around 31 percent-almost 10 times saltier than the ocean -the Dead Sea is so thick, nothing can sink into it, and everyone who walks into it will naturally float.

While the coastline around the lake has become a flourishing spa and resort destination, there is also a large influx of religious tourism in the area. Jericho, the city where Jesus is said to have healed blind beggars, is located just minutes northwest of the Dead Sea-and a number of other cities, including the legendary Sodom and Gomorra, as well as Zoar and Admah, are also located in this area. The area boasts some of the oldest inhabited cities in the world.

While the lake is too salty to support aquatic life, there are plenty of animals that call the surrounding desert home-and hikers will run into anything from hares to foxes and leopards when exploring the nature reserves around the Dead Sea.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Dead Sea Region

Thailand's biggest island is also a magnet for visitors-and for good reason. Phuket boasts some of the best beaches in the country , with clean, soft, rolling sands and turquoise waters as far as the eye can see.

Kata , Hat Karon , and Kamala beaches see a lot of tourists during the high season (November to February) but remain sleepy little villages once the rains arrive. Beautiful coral reefs line up the coastline, offering amazing opportunities for snorkeling and diving but also sea kayaking and island hopping.

In between hours of lying under the sun, visitors can head to the white and gold Wat Chalong , the largest and most important Buddhist temple on the island, or climb up a hill to reach the Big Buddha-a 45-meter-tall statue covered with Burmese marble.

The island is also home to a number of unique festivals. The Ghost Festival during the 7th Chinese lunar month is dedicated to ancestor worship, and it entails releasing lanterns into the ocean to help guide lost souls-a sight to behold.

The Vegetarian Festival during the 9th Chinese lunar month is another stunning celebration-which, despite the name, is not so much about food but about purification and putting the body through extreme tests, such as fire walking and hanging from hooks.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Phuket Island

One of the most populous cities in the world, Beijing is also one of the oldest. You can get a peek into that history by walking the hutongs of Beijing, the narrow alleyways lined up with traditional homes and courtyards.

China's capital is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites , including the Imperial Summer Palace and its gardens, the oldest canal in the world, and the Forbidden City -a palace complex that served as the home of China's emperors for 500 years starting in the 1420s. The Forbidden City-made up of almost 1,000 different buildings-is one of Beijing's most impressive tourist attractions.

The city also offers visitors many unique-looking pagodas and temples, including the 12 th -century, eight-sided Tianning Temple, as well as almost 150 museums and galleries.

The Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution and the National Art Museum of China have massive collections and are well worth a visit.

Several sections of the Great Wall can also be found within Beijing, including the wall's most visited site, the 80-kilometer-long Badaling section.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Beijing

Most visitors arriving in Vietnam land in either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City , or head straight to Halong Bay and the beach-but Vietnam's best place to visit is actually a well-guarded secret.

The ancient city of Hoi An is home to one of Asia's oldest trading ports and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . A major commercial stop for trading ships as far back as the 15 th century, Hoi An still maintains much of its original architecture in the form of timber frame buildings, colorful French-colonial shutters, and Chinese tiled roofs. Religious buildings, courtyards, and shophouses sit side by side on narrow alleyways all across Ancient Town, Hoi An's historical center.

Every full moon cycle, Hoi An celebrates the Lantern Festival , which honors ancestors through light. On the night before the full moon, all the lights in the Ancient Town are turned off, and colorful lanterns and candles are placed on windows, inside houses, and on boats lazily floating down the river.

Visitors at other times of the month can walk Hoi An to discover the Museum of History and Culture (originally a pagoda dedicated to the Goddess of Compassion, Guan Yin); the 17 th -century covered Japanese bridge ; and the Old House of Tan Ky , a preserved 18th-century merchant's house.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hoi An

Over 7.4 million people from all over the world occupy the small 1,104-square-kilometer island of Hong Kong, making it the third most densely populated place in the world. Despite having one of the world's highest per capita incomes, income inequality has become one of Hong Kong's main issues, and lower-income families often live in crowded tenement buildings. The buildings themselves have become tourist attractions, as many are historic structures dating back over a century.

Hong Kong also has the largest number of skyscrapers in the world at 355-an impressive 75 more than the city in second place, New York . A good number of these are located around Victoria Harbor , a popular tourist area with one of the most stunning coastal skylines in Asia.

For the best views , visitors can climb to the top of Victoria Peak, HK's highest hill and home to a leisure and shopping complex with an enclosed viewing terrace looking over the city below.

Hong Kong is home to a Disneyland park , as well as Ocean Park, an amusement park with rollercoasters, thrill, and water rides.

The cobble-stoned streets that make up the Lan Kwai Fong district have a considerable large number of upmarket restaurants and clubs, while Lantau Island attracts tourists looking for the more spiritual side of Hong Kong. Lantau is home to the 34-meter-tall Tian Tan Buddha statue (one of the largest sitting Buddha statues in the world), waiting at the top of a steep hill.

Other popular things to do include shopping at the street markets and hiking or walking , either in the city or on Hong Kong's Outer Islands .

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hong Kong

The resort town of Siem Reap is better known as being the gateway to the Angkor region and the magnificent temples left behind by the Khmer civilization. The largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat was built in the early 12th century and stretches over an area of over 160 hectares.

Siem Reap itself is an exciting mix of Chinese and French colonial architecture-a place where traditional Apsara dance performance spaces mix in with French bakeries, galleries, and rice paddies.

In between visiting great cafés and taking day trips out to the temples, take some time to explore The Cambodia Landmine Museum and Relief Center , which chronicles the ongoing threat of landmines and what's being done to completely eliminate them.

If you have a couple of hours before your visit to Angkor Wat, the Angkor National Museum is an excellent way to learn more about the archeological ruins and the stunning civilization behind them.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Siem Reap

Singapore only gained full independence from the UK and became a sovereign state in 1965, but this brand-new country is now a financial powerhouse and one of the most fun countries to visit in Southeast Asia.

Because of its size and location, Singapore doesn't have a lot of beaches-unless you count the three beaches on Sentosa Island resort, small but with soft white sands and protected lagoons with clean blue waters-but it makes up for it with themed attractions, lush rain forests, and lively coastal fun.

From its own Universal Studios park and a 50-meter bungee jump from a tower over the beach to the Marina Bay Sands resort and its rooftop, which includes an infinity pool and a skybridge, Singapore has quickly established itself as a thrilling destination.

But this island-state also has plenty to offer in the form of greener entertainment, starting with the magical Gardens by the Bay , a 100-hectare nature park with the largest glass greenhouse in the world, two cooled conservatories, and plenty of artistically designed trees and flower areas.

Singapore's nature-themed Jewel Changi Airport has been recognized as one of the best in the world-it features not only the world's tallest indoor waterfall , but also an indoor suspension bridge 23 meters up in the air, four slides, and a butterfly garden.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Singapore

Bhutan is a landlocked country surrounded by the Himalayas, Tibet, and parts of India. A nation of steep mountains, green valleys, and swift rivers, Bhutan is home to 7,570-meter-tall Gangkhar Puensum , the world's highest unclimbed mountain.

Some of the most beautiful sights in the country are high up, perched on cliffs- Tiger's Nest Monastery is a good example, set over 3,000 meters up in the mountains and only reachable after a grueling hike.

In an effort to protect the biodiversity and historical heritage of the country, free travel throughout the country isn't allowed. This means all foreign visitors arriving in Bhutan must travel on a pre-paid package tour organized through an approved operator. While some agencies will offer pre-arranged stops, others will work with you to help you see what you're really interested in-places worth a visit include the fortress and Buddhist monastery ruins of Drukgyal Dzong , the Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary (home to the rare black-necked cranes), and a number of dzongs or religious fortresses.

Nepal's capital and largest city is also known as the "City of Temples." A melting pot of Hindu and Buddhist religious influences, Kathmandu is full of stupas-including Nepal's holiest Buddhist site, Boudhanath , a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and Swayambhu , home to holy monkeys and one of the oldest temples in Nepal. Both those looking for a religious experience and camera-toting tourists can find much to appreciate in a city where spirituality touches almost everything.

Sitting at an elevation of over 1,400 meters above sea level, Kathmandu is a popular gateway to the Himalayas and to nearby destinations like the Ancient City of Patan.

Climbers from all over the world arrive here to set off on their 15-day-long Everest Base Camp trek , but overnight trips around the city are also popular to catch sight of the Himalayas in all their splendor. Even those without a love for adventure can find much to see and do in the capital-from impressive markets to historic monuments to plenty of colorful festivals throughout the year.

It's even possible to get an up-close look at the splendor of the Himalayas from above, as many tour companies offer short flights over the snowcapped mountains.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nepal

New Delhi and Mumbai might be India's best-known cities, but Jaipur takes home the "most beautiful" prize. Known as the "pink city" because of the unique color of the stone used to build many of the structures around, Jaipur is also home to a community of artisans. Here, craftsmen produce everything from block printing and blue pottery to shellac work; stone carvings; and Bandhani, the unique art of decorating tie-dye textile by plucking sections of it with the fingernails.

Many of the most breathtaking attractions in Jaipur are architectural marvels, including the stunning Jal Mahal palace , which sits in the center of the Man Sagar Lake.

Many other monuments and pink structures are located within 10 kilometers of the city, including the ancient temple complex Galtaji , built right into narrow hills and surrounded by sacred kunds (small water pools). The world's largest stone sundial at Jantar Mantar and the 10th-century red sandstone and marble Amer Fort are also just outside the city and attract many visitors.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Jaipur

Luang Prabang and 33 of the villages surrounding it are part of the UNESCO Town of Luang Prabang World Heritage Site . Together, these sites are home to an incredible mix of cultural and architectural heritage that has shaped Laos through the centuries.

The Wat Xieng Thong or " Temple of the Golden City " is a good example of this-a 16th-century structure showcasing stunning examples of Laos arts and crafts but also a historically significant place where all Laos kings were once crowned. Right in the center of town, Mount Phou Si is home to Wat Chom Si and offers one of the best views over the town once you get to the top.

Luang Prabang is best explored on foot or on a bike, getting lost in the narrow alleyways where temples, houses, and colonial buildings all mix in a harmonious atmosphere.

Just outside the city and reached by driving through sloping, lush hills and rice paddies, there are a number of natural sites worth a visit. The Pak Ou Caves , which sit over the Mekong River and are home to hundreds of miniature wooden Buddha statues, and the three-level Kuang Si Falls are popular day trips from Luang Prabang.

An ancient city and one of the top heritage sites in the world , Bagan was once the capital of a powerful kingdom. Today, Bagan and Angkor are the two most important ancient religious sites in Asia, receiving hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. The Bagan Archeological Zone extends over a 41-square-kilometer area and is home to more than 3,000 pagodas, stupas, and other religious structures tucked away amid dense forests.

Exploring the temples and ruins is a big endeavor and can be done on foot (small sections at a time) or on a rented bike. Shwe Gu Gyi is one of the few temples that can be climbed and offers some of the best views-perfect for photo backgrounds. Otherwise, Nyaung Laphat hill and Sulamani hill are a must-visit to watch the sunrise and sunset over the temples.

To see Bagan in all its glory, however, you can't beat taking a hot air balloon ride over the temples.

Outside the Archeological Zone, Bagan is famous for its lacquer and sand paintings, both of which you can find at local markets in most villages. Bagan town also has a busy night market and a traditional Burmese market (Mani-Sithu Market), and you can catch a boat tour or a cruise from the town's central jetty.

Thatbyinnyu Pahto temple-the tallest in Bagan at over 200 feet-is another must-visit, and so is Gubyaukgyi or the Great Painted Cave Temple with its 12th-century frescoes.

Bali is best known for its stunning golden beaches lined with swaying palm trees and blue-green waters, but this Indonesian island has a lot more attractions to offer visitors. Not that the beaches shouldn't top your must-visit list-the glorious stretches of sand at laid-back Crystal Bay, the undeveloped White Sands Beach, or the serene Sanur with its untouched village-feel are some of Bali's best destinations.

In addition to sun, sand, and sea, Bali also offers a unique cultural and historical landscape filled with temples, including ancient pilgrimage temple Tanah Lot (famous for its sunsets); Gunung Lebah and its scenic jungle surroundings; and Pura Goa Lawah, considered one of the six holiest places of worship in Bali.

For more active pursuits, consider a hike up the 5,633-foot tall active volcano on Mount Batur, especially at sunrise. Or visit the many terraced rice paddies that line up the Bali countryside. The Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud are particularly scenic.

More on Japan

Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Asia

There are so many exciting top destinations in Asia , deciding where to go can be difficult; but that's a good problem to have.

Don't despair! With cheap budget flights between major hubs in Asia , you could easily catch a couple or more of these tempting top-spots on a single trip. Regardless of where you begin, you'll have access to culture, UNESCO sites , nature, and exciting culinary treats.

If planning your first big trip to Asia, consider a soft landing in one of these top destinations for first-time travelers.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Many travelers prefer Thailand's pleasant northern capital over the hectic pace of life in Bangkok. Most of the tourist action happens within Chiang Mai's Old City, where orange-robed monks from the many temples smile as they pass.

From numerous cultural festivals and sprawling night markets to mountain trekking and scores of beautiful temples, Chiang Mai attracts over a million visitors a year who just can't wait to come back. Chiang Mai is certainly the most popular among the top 10 places to visit in Thailand .

Pai, a riverside village only four hours north of Chiang Mai, is a bonus; you can visit both of them together as a "package."

Although inflation is on the rise due to popularity (Bangkok is consistently one of the most visited cities in the world), a vacation in Thailand is still relatively inexpensive .

Penang, Malaysia

Known as the "Pearl of the Orient," Penang is a place to relax, eat delicious food to the brink of misery, and appreciate Malaysia in a new way. Malaysians are quite proud of their large island — and they should be!

A legacy of immigration and colonization in Penang has produced what is arguably some of the best cuisines in all of Southeast Asia. Penang hawker food combines the best of Malay with influences from Chinese and Indian immigrants to produce mouthwatering creations.

Superb food is not the only indulgence on the island. You'll find hip museums and art galleries along with plenty of other things to do in Penang. Georgetown may have some grubby edges, but it's not only charming, it's groovy .

Penang is easy to reach and is certainly among the top destinations in Malaysia .

Notoriously expensive and often unfairly shunned by budget travelers afraid of getting fined , tiny Singapore is a modern-yet-green city/island/country well worth a visit for the food, mega-mall shopping, and unique blend of cultures.

Don't assume that Singapore is all about concrete shopping blocks! You'll find ample green space and an impressive system of elevated biking and walking trails that interconnect city parks.

Yes, Singapore costs far more than neighboring Malaysia or the rest of Southeast Asia, however, the city has a pleasant vibe, lively Indian and Chinese cultures, speaks good English, and is pleasant enough just to stroll. You could spend months living in Singapore and still discover hidden places and eateries the guidebooks have missed! Even the museums in Singapore will remain in memory forever.

Malaysian Borneo

Borneo in Southeast Asia is the third-largest island in the world, shared between Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei.

Hands down, Malaysian Borneo is a natural paradise. And with plentiful rainforests, endangered orangutans, and indigenous cultures, it's certainly worth grabbing a cheap flight from Kuala Lumpur . You'll often see deals to Borneo for US $20 or less!

Malaysian Borneo has two states: Sarawak and Sabah . Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, is a happening tourist city in the shadow of towering Mount Kinabalu. Kuching , the capital of Sarawak, has a pleasant waterfront that helped earned the city "cleanest in Asia" for many years.

When you've had enough shopping and cheap seafood, trade the concrete for the undeveloped beaches and nearby national parks where there are plenty of opportunities to experience Southeast Asia at its wildest.

Islands in Thailand

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

From islands large enough for busy airports to tiny, generator-powered paradises, the islands in Thailand are among the world's most beautiful.

Imagine white sand and blue water, cheap diving, and your choice of isolated tranquility or savage nightlife — all for far less than the cost of a trip to Hawaii. Even better, you won't need to bring that much stuff along .

The diversity of the Thai islands is amazing. Phuket and Koh Samui are developed, tourist hot spots with vibrant nightlife, while tiny Koh Lipe once barely maintained electricity. Beautiful Koh Lanta is the perfect island compromise.

The great news is that you don't have to choose just one. Island hopping is a thing in Thailand.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap is the gateway to exploring one of Southeast Asia's most fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Angkor Wat . Over 900 years old, the temples of Angkor are scattered across 600 square miles of jungle. The jungle is slowly reclaiming the ancient temples as vines strangle ruins and break apart bricks.

The picturesque Angkor temples frequently serve as movie sets and bring to life the inner-archaeologist in over one million visitors each year. While not at the temples, Siem Reap is a tourist destination all on its own.

If visiting during the shoulder seasons at Angkor Wat , you could have some of the jungle temples all to yourself!

Beijing, China

Crowded, polluted, dreadfully appealing — love it or hate it , Beijing is the pounding heart of China. Amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City make navigating Beijing's urban sprawl well worth the effort.

Give Beijing a chance; rather than fleeing from the madness, stick around long enough to become a part of it. Wandering the busy streets can actually become quite addictive!

Bali, Indonesia

Ana Alarcon / TripSavvy

Bali, with its miles of beaches and volcanic landscapes, is nothing short of magic. Once mainly a destination for honeymooners and surfers, Bali is now one of the top destinations in Asia.

Most of the action culminates in South Bali at hedonistic Kuta Beach. Travelers in search of more than surf or a hangover go for Ubud , the peaceful cultural center of Bali. Some even opt to climb a volcano in the verdant Kintamani Region in the center of the island.

Excellent beaches, a welcoming Hindu culture, and beautiful scenery make Bali the busiest of places to visit in Indonesia . Plus, flights to Bali are really cheap from Bangkok.

Tokyo, Japan

Perhaps not the cheapest of places to visit in Asia, bustling Tokyo is the world's largest metropolitan economy, even exceeding New York City. Urban marvels, talking toilets, and an aloof culture begging to be understood await as soon as you exit the airport.

Learning a few Japanese travel tips will help you save money while traveling in Japan. If you don't mind a lot of company, go during the spring to appreciate cherry blossoms with the locals.

Rajasthan, India

While Goa gets a lot of attention because of the beaches, intrepid travelers head west into India's desert state of Rajasthan . Rich with history, stories of romance, camels, and impressive forts, Rajasthan is an unforgettable destination.

If the sun and tourists become too much, consider heading north to the Himalayas with a visit to Manali or the home of the Dalai Lama .

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Vientiane Travel Guide

Explore Asia's Most Beautiful Destinations to Travel

Look, folks, if you’re not planning a trip to asia,, you’re doing it wrong. big time..

Asia is the goddamn continent of contrasts.

You’ve got your bustling metropolises like Tokyo and Seoul,

where neon lights and skyscrapers pierce the sky like a drunken dragon’s breath.

And then you’ve got your serene villages nestled

among lush rice paddies and ancient temples, where time seems to slow down to a crawl.

Oh, the food.

From the fiery curries of Thailand to the delicate sushi of Japan, your taste buds will be on a rollercoaster ride of flavor.

And don’t even get me started on the street food.

You’ll be chowing down on everything from skewered meats to fried insects, and you’ll love every damn bite.

The people?

Warm, welcoming, and always up for a good time.

You’ll make friends wherever you go, and you’ll be invited into homes for tea and conversation.

And if you’re lucky, you might even get to witness a traditional ceremony or festival.

So what are you waiting for?

Book your flight to Asia today.

And if you see me on the streets, don’t be afraid to say hi. I’ll be the one with the big grin and the even bigger appetite.

Now go forth and explore, you magnificent bastards!

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Our asia travel guide blog.

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FAQs About Travelling to Asia

The best time to visit Asia depends on the country you are visiting. Some countries, such as Thailand and Cambodia , have a tropical climate with a hot and humid rainy season. Other countries, such as China and Japan, have a more temperate climate with four distinct seasons.

Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia include:

Thailand : Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi
Vietnam : Hanoi , Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An
Cambodia : Siem Reap (Angkor Wat), Phnom Penh
Indonesia: Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Lombok
Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima
China: Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Hong Kong
India: New Delhi, Agra (Taj Mahal), Mumbai, Jaipur

Asia has a lot to offer visitors, including:

Visit ancient temples and ruins
Explore bustling cities and markets
Relax on beautiful beaches
Hike in lush rainforests
Experience unique cultures and traditions
Enjoy delicious food

Here are a few tips for traveling in Asia:

Be prepared for the heat and humidity.
Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.
Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Learn a few basic phrases in the local language.
Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid pickpocketing and other scams.
Be prepared for power outages and other disruptions.
Pack light so that you can easily move around.

The best way to plan your trip to Asia is to start by deciding which countries you want to visit and what you want to do. Once you have a general idea of your itinerary, you can start to book your flights, hotels , and tours.

Go Asia Guide can help you plan every detail of your trip. We have a team of travel experts who are available to answer your questions and help you book your travel arrangements.

We also offer a variety of travel guides and resources to help you learn more about the countries you are visiting.

The visa requirements for travel to Asia vary depending on your nationality and the country you are visiting. It is important to check the visa requirements for your specific trip in advance. You can usually find this information on the website of the country's embassy or consulate.

The currency in Asia varies depending on the country you are visiting. Some of the most common currencies include the Thai baht (THB) , the Vietnamese dong (VND) , the Cambodian riel (KHR) , and the Indonesian rupiah (IDR). It is important to check the exchange rate for the currency of the country you are visiting before you travel.

Asia is the largest and most populous continent in the world, and it is home to some of the most diverse and fascinating cultures on the planet. Asia is the largest and most populous continent in the world, and it is home to some of the most diverse and fascinating cultures on the planet.

FAQs About GoAsiaGuide

Go Asia Guide is the most comprehensive and up-to-date travel guide for Asia. We provide information on over 50 countries, including visa requirements, currency exchange rates, popular tourist destinations, and more. We also offer flight booking, hotel booking, and tour booking services.

Go Asia Guide is for anyone who is interested in traveling to Asia, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler. We provide information and resources for all types of travelers, including budget travelers, luxury travelers, and families.

Go Asia Guide provides a wide range of information on Asian countries, including:

Visa requirements
Currency exchange rates
Popular tourist destinations
Things to do
Food to eat
Transportation options
Accommodation options
Tips for traveling

The 10 Best Countries to Visit in Asia and Why (for Beginners)

Posted on Last updated: October 31, 2023

Asia is a continent filled with diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history, so it’s tough to truly name the best countries to visit in Asia . The continent offers a huge array of truly incredible and varied destinations for travelers seeking extraordinary experiences.

Among the many remarkable countries in Asia, many stand out as must-visit destinations. But, some places to visit in Asia are a bit more intense than others, so this list will go into countries that are best for beginners and what each country is best for.

I would include every country if I could, but these ten will have to do for now as they are all special in different ways. Let’s embark on a virtual journey through these enchanting lands, discovering the unique charms they have to offer.

Thailand and why it is one of the best countries to visit in Asia

One of the Best Countries to Visit in Asia For : Culture, Diversity of Landscape, Ease of Travel, Beaches, Nightlife, Temples

Thailand, also known as the Land of Smiles, is a haven for travelers seeking a perfect blend of cultural immersion and tropical beauty. Thailand has something to offer for everyone, from the bustling cityscape of Bangkok to the temples of Chiang Mai to the tranquil beaches of Phuket (which are all great starting points in this country).

If starting in Bangkok, one popular option for travelers is to explore the vibrant floating markets, where locals trade their goods from longtail boats, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere. Additionally, the ancient temples, such as Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew, offer a glimpse into the country’s spiritual heritage. There are also dozens of epic hidden gems in Bangkok beyond the guidebook.

Discover hidden Gems in Thailand as a whole to get off the tourist track a bit after exploring the main sights – make sure to check the best music festivals in Thailand when you are there, as there are some great ones.

One of the Best Countries to Visit in Asia For : Culture, History, Traditions

India, a land of true diversity, is a country that will easily captivate the soul with its rich history, architectural wonders, and vibrant traditions. From the bustling cities of Delhi and Mumbai to the calm backwaters of Kerala and the majestic Taj Mahal, India offers an unparalleled journey of discovery.

For beginners, it is advisable to start in the south to integrate more slowly into Indian culture, because the north can get intense for a lot of travelers. It’s best to work your way up! Check out some of the best places to visit in Kerala for a lush tropical pradise, or even start with some wellness at an Ayurveda resort in Kerala . There are many reasons to visit Goa too – the list goes on!

Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of the streets, where colors, aromas, and sounds blend harmoniously. Explore the regal palaces of Rajasthan or embark on a spiritual quest in Varanasi, the holiest city in Indiam on your way up to the Himalaya mountains.

One of the Best Countries to Visit in Asia For : Beaches, resorts, and pristine waters

Nestled in the calm and crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is one of the best countries to visit in Asia that is truly like no other. It’s a great destination in Asia for beginners as once you can navigate getting there, it’s truly smooth sailing and luxurious experiences from there on out.

A tropical paradise that seems to have been plucked from a dream, the Maldives are famous for the overwater villa resorts where you can wake up to the ocean. There are dozens of beautiful islands, and all kinds of water sports like scuba diving, snorkeling, and boating.

A Maldives trip promises a world of tranquility and natural beauty where you can relax away from it all. Dive into the turquoise waters (right fomr your overwater villa, perhaps) to discover a kaleidoscope of marine life, including manta rays and colorful fish. Unwind on secluded beaches, savoring the warm tropical breeze.

One of the Best Countries to Visit in Asia For : Culture, Beautiful Landscapes/Beaches, Kind Locals, Expat Culture

Indonesia, which is actually the largest archipelago in the world, is truly a tropical paradise brimming with natural wonders and cultural treasures. There are over 18,000 islands that comprise Indonesia, but of course, only a selection of these are inhabited or popular for tourism.

From the tranquil beaches of Lombok to the ancient temples of Borobudur, Indonesia offers the whole range of experiences. Discover the iconic rice terraces of Ubud in Bali or scuba dive through the underwater wonders of the Komodo Islands, where you must also, of course, see some magnificent Komodo dragons up close. Jakarta is the bustling capital city on the island of Java, which also has a lot to explore.

The obvious choice for beginner travelers is Bali, the most popular island in Indonesia for tourism. Bali is known for yoga retreats, spa treatments, world-class surfing, and a diverse expat community that call the island home. I lived in Bali during most of 2020 and plan to make it my full-time home one day! Check out some more info about Bali:

Unique Places to Stay in Bali
Bali Hidden Gems
Bali Scuba Diving Guide

Vietnam rice terraces make it one of the best countries to visit in Asia

One of the Best Countries to Visit in Asia For: Culture, Food, Landscapes, History

Vietnam is a country rich in heritage and landscape. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay and the historic city of Hoi An, Vietnam is full of captivating destinations perfect for beginners.

Start in the busy city of Hanoi, where you will learn plenty of history about the war, before heading out into the remote terraces of Sa Pa to meet hill tribes. Sail the waters and limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, and make your way south along a well-blazen tourist trail. Stop in places like Da Nang , Hue, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and eventually Ho Chi Minh City. See my two week Vietnam Itinerary here!

Don’t forget to sample the world-renowned Vietnamese cuisine, with its fresh flavors and aromatic herbs mixed into things like pho noodle soup, Vietnamese springs rolls, and more. Vietnamese coffee is a must, too! Vietnam is a truly well-rounded country with diverse experiences, making it one of the best countries to visit in Asia.

One of the Best Countries to Visit in Asia For : History mixed with Modernity, Food, Culture, Landscape

Japan is a truly incredible first-world country famous for balancing ancient traditions with forward-thinking modernity. From the densely packed streets of Tokyo boasting neon-lit signs and hundreds of eateries, malls, and skyscrapers to the ancient temples of Kyoto , which remind visitors of a time long past through over a dozen UNESCO sites, Japan has a lot to offer.

Japan is a great country for beginners because, with punctual public transport, clean streets, and easy-to-navigate systems, you will always know what to expect. This cannot be said of many Southeast Asian countries, which often seem to run on their own time!

Japan is not as cheap as Southeast Asia but encompasses a totally different and unique culture that is worth seeing. Mount Fuji is the tallest snow-capped mountain that travelers love to visit, as well as the Shibuya Crossing, the Hiroshima Memorial, and more.

South Korea

One of the Best Countries to Visit in Asia For : Culture/Tradition, Food, Modernity, Landscape

South Korea is a stunning smaller country which is one of the best countries to visit in Asia for many reasons. South Korea firstly has tons of incredible landscapes, from the shores of Jeju island to the skyscrapers of Seoul to tons of national parks packed into the small area.

Some of the best places to visit for beginners are, of course, Seoul, which is a big city that is quite easy to navigate and full of historical treasures such as the Gyeongbokgung Palace. Visit the coastal city of Busan and take a ferry to Jeju, or learn some ancient history at the city of Gyeongju and dozens of other UNESCO sites.

South Korea’s charm doesn’t stop at landscapes, however. Korean K-Pop music has taken the world by storm, and Korean food is also some of the best. Try delicious bulgogi beef, kimchi, and bibimbap if you haven’t already.

An incredible view of some of the Angkor Wat temples Cambodia Southeast Asia

One of the Best Countries to Visit in Asia For : History, Temples, Beautiful Coastlines

Cambodia is often overlooked by its neighbors Thailand and Vietnam but definitely boasts its own charm making it one of the top Asian countries to visit. The standout Cambodian draws are the grand ancient temples built by the Khmer Empire between 500 and 1000 years ago, such as the famous Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat is comprised of multiple temples, making it the largest religious monument in the world!

Visiting Angkor Wat in Siem Reap is an absolute must, but the capital city of Phnom Penh is also incredible with its bustling streets and dark history from the genocide in the late 70s (tough but necessary to see). One of the best parts of Cambodia, however, is the untouched beaches and islands on the south coast. You can truly get off the beaten track in Koh Rong, Sihanoukville, and more.

Cambodia has the laid-back vibe of most Southeast Asian countries and is accessible via busses between the main destinations (and ferries to the islands). It’s fairly simple to get around and frequented by travelers especially on trips between the surrounding countries.

Gardens by the bay singapore why its one of the best countries to visit in Asia

One of the Best Countries to Visit in Asia For : Big City Vibes, Fancy Establishments, Theme Parks

Singapore is truly a unique country to visit in Asia. It’s got all the first-world comforts (and prices) with its whole population packed into its tiny size, fitting in tons of skyscrapers, world-class hotels, and a couple of mountains for good measure. Singapore is almost futuristic, with neon-lit structures and interesting architecture throughout.

From the space-age Gardens by the Bay to the theme parks of Sentosa Island to the iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel with its famous rooftop infinity pool , Singapore is a place to visit for indulgence. But that doesn’t mean it has no Asian charm – there are still plenty of hawker markets, food stalls, and bustling streets of Little India, Chinatown, and Kampong Glam.

Singapore has strict cleanliness laws and keeps everything spick-and-span at all times. It’s an easy country to travel around and navigate, especially as English is one of the official languages.

Sri Lanka Train Kandy to Ella best Asian places to visit

One of the Best Countries to Visit in Asia For : Traditions/Culture, Landscapes, Wildlife/National Parks

Sri Lanka packs a big punch into a tiny island country. With a tropical climate and alternating rainy seasons, it’s possible to visit this country and get great weather year-round, depending on where you go.

Sri Lanka has incredible beaches along its whole coast, with diving, snorkeling, water sports, and whale watching. The capital city, Colombo, has bustling streets and a history from thousands of years ago to British colonial times. Getting back into ancient history, it’s popular to visit places like Kandy, a beautiful mountain city, Sigiriya, an ancient rock fortress, and the ancient city of Anuradhapura.

There are miles of mountainous tea plantations in the center of the country, rich with waterfalls and viewpoints, and over 2 dozen national parks with indigenous Asian elephants and much more.

Sri Lanka is safe to visit despite some financial struggles in 2022. Sri Lankans are some of the kindest and most welcoming people in Asia who are keen to share their country and culture. The country is well-connected by trains, tuk-tuks, and busses, which are easy to book online or in person. Here are some great reasons to visit Sri Lanka and the perfect 10-day Sri Lanka itinerary for visiting for your first time.

Travel Tips and Cultural Etiquette for Asia

As you embark on your Asian travels, it is important to respect the local customs and traditions of each country. Remember to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and be mindful of local customs and practices. It is also advisable to try and learn a few basic phrases in the local language, as it can greatly enhance your interactions with the locals.

In terms of safety, it is always recommended to take necessary precautions such as securing your belongings, being aware of your surroundings, and following any travel advisories or guidelines issued by your home country.

With its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Asia offers an abundance of unforgettable experiences. Whether you find yourself relaxing on the pristine beaches of the Maldives, exploring the bustling streets of Seoul, or immersing yourself in the ancient traditions of India, each country in Asia has its own unique charm waiting to be discovered.

So pack your bags, embark on an adventure, and let the wonders of Asia leave an indelible mark on your travel memories.

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The 10 Best Countries To Visit In Asia And Why (for Beginners)

Published: September 4, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Cyndie Joyce

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Japan: Rich Culture and Stunning Landscapes

Japan, an archipelago in East Asia, is a captivating blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, this island nation offers a mesmerizing array of experiences for travelers.

Rich Culture

Japan's rich cultural heritage is evident in its traditional arts, such as tea ceremonies, ikebana (flower arranging), and kabuki theater. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquility of Zen gardens or witness the grace of a geisha performance in the historic Gion district of Kyoto. The country's respect for tradition is also reflected in its festivals, including the iconic cherry blossom season and the vibrant matsuri (festivals) celebrated throughout the year.

Stunning Landscapes

Beyond its cultural allure, Japan boasts diverse and stunning landscapes. The iconic Mount Fuji, with its symmetrical cone, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Japan's natural beauty. The country's picturesque countryside is adorned with tranquil bamboo forests, enchanting hot spring resorts, and captivating traditional villages, such as Shirakawa-go with its charming thatched-roof houses.

Whether strolling through the historic streets of Takayama or marveling at the vibrant colors of autumn in the forests of Nikko, Japan's landscapes never fail to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

With its harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, Japan offers a truly immersive travel experience that appeals to both history enthusiasts and modern explorers. Whether savoring the elegance of a tea ceremony or exploring the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, visitors to Japan are sure to be enchanted by its rich culture and stunning landscapes.

Thailand: Vibrant Cities and Beautiful Beaches

Thailand, known as the “Land of Smiles,” is a Southeast Asian gem renowned for its vibrant cities, rich cultural heritage, and idyllic beaches. From the bustling metropolis of Bangkok to the pristine shores of Phuket, Thailand offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to every traveler’s desires.

Vibrant Cities

Bangkok, the capital city, pulsates with energy, blending modern skyscrapers with ornate temples and bustling street markets. The Grand Palace, home to the revered Emerald Buddha, stands as a testament to Thailand’s royal heritage, while the floating markets of Damnoen Saduak offer a glimpse into traditional Thai commerce.

Chiang Mai, nestled in the mountainous north, exudes a more laid-back charm, with its ancient temples, vibrant night bazaars, and proximity to the lush jungles of northern Thailand. The city’s rich cultural tapestry is showcased in its annual Yi Peng lantern festival, where thousands of illuminated lanterns float into the night sky, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

Beautiful Beaches

Thailand’s coastline is adorned with some of the world’s most stunning beaches, each offering its own distinct allure. The island of Phuket, with its azure waters and golden sands, is a haven for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Phi Phi Islands, with their dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, have captivated travelers seeking a tropical paradise.

For those in search of tranquility, the pristine shores of Koh Lanta provide a serene escape, while the vibrant coral reefs and marine life of the Similan Islands beckon to avid divers and snorkelers.

Thailand’s vibrant cities and beautiful beaches present a harmonious blend of cultural immersion and tropical relaxation. Whether exploring the historical wonders of Ayutthaya or unwinding on the palm-fringed shores of Koh Samui, visitors to Thailand are greeted with a warm hospitality and a wealth of experiences that cater to every preference.

South Korea: Modern Cities and Historical Sites

South Korea, a nation steeped in tradition yet embracing modernity, offers a dynamic fusion of contemporary urban landscapes and ancient historical sites. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the serene temples of Gyeongju, this East Asian gem beckons travelers with its captivating contrasts and rich cultural heritage.

Modern Cities

Seoul, the capital and largest city, stands as a testament to South Korea’s rapid development and technological innovation. Skyscrapers and neon-lit streets coexist with historic palaces and Buddhist temples, creating a captivating juxtaposition of old and new. The vibrant district of Gangnam showcases the city’s modernity, boasting upscale shopping centers, trendy boutiques, and a pulsating nightlife scene.

Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, is renowned for its scenic beaches, bustling fish markets, and the towering skyscrapers of the Haeundae district. The city’s modernity harmonizes with its coastal charm, offering visitors a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty.

Historical Sites

South Korea’s historical sites provide a glimpse into the nation’s rich heritage and enduring traditions. The ancient capital of Gyeongju, often referred to as the “museum without walls,” is home to a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage sites, including ancient temples, royal tombs, and exquisite Buddhist art. The serene beauty of the Bulguksa Temple and the historic significance of the Seokguram Grotto are testaments to South Korea’s profound cultural legacy.

The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a poignant reminder of the Korean War, offers a sobering yet insightful experience, allowing visitors to witness the complex history and enduring tensions between North and South Korea.

South Korea’s juxtaposition of modern cities and historical sites presents a compelling narrative of progress and preservation. Whether marveling at the futuristic architecture of Incheon or exploring the ancient fortress of Hwaseong, travelers are invited to embark on a captivating journey through South Korea’s vibrant past and present.

India: Diverse Culture and Incredible History

India, a land of kaleidoscopic diversity and timeless grandeur, beckons travelers with its rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and historical legacies. From the majestic forts of Rajasthan to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, this South Asian nation offers an unparalleled wealth of experiences that captivate the senses and ignite the imagination.

Diverse Culture

India’s cultural mosaic is a vibrant tapestry woven from myriad threads of tradition, art, and spirituality. The country’s festivals, such as Diwali, Holi, and Eid, pulsate with joyous celebrations, colorful rituals, and a spirit of unity amidst diversity. Visitors can witness the graceful movements of classical Indian dance forms, savor the aromatic spices of regional cuisines, and immerse themselves in the melodic strains of traditional music that resonate throughout the country.

The architectural marvels of India, from the ethereal beauty of the Taj Mahal to the ancient cave temples of Ellora, stand as testaments to the country’s artistic prowess and cultural heritage. The bustling bazaars, adorned with vibrant textiles, intricate handicrafts, and ornate jewelry, offer a glimpse into India’s artisanal traditions and craftsmanship.

Incredible History

India’s historical narrative is a saga of dynasties, empires, and civilizations that have left an indelible mark on the landscape. The majestic forts and palaces of Rajasthan, including the iconic Amber Fort and Mehrangarh Fort, narrate tales of valor and royalty, while the ancient ruins of Hampi and the rock-cut temples of Mahabalipuram offer insights into the country’s architectural legacy.

The spiritual heritage of India is embodied in the sacred sites of Varanasi, the serene ghats of Rishikesh, and the meditative tranquility of Bodh Gaya, where the enlightenment of Lord Buddha unfolded. The timeless wisdom of yoga and Ayurveda, deeply rooted in India’s ancient traditions, continues to draw seekers of holistic wellness and spiritual rejuvenation from around the globe.

India’s diverse culture and incredible history converge to create a tapestry of experiences that resonate with the soul and inspire a sense of wonder. Whether traversing the vibrant streets of Jaipur or embarking on a spiritual sojourn to the sacred city of Varanasi, visitors to India are embraced by a land where history and culture intertwine to weave stories of enduring legacy and boundless diversity.

Vietnam: Charming Old Towns and Breathtaking Scenery

Vietnam, a country of timeless charm and natural beauty, beckons travelers with its captivating blend of ancient heritage and stunning landscapes. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene waters of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam offers a wealth of experiences that immerse visitors in its rich history and awe-inspiring scenery.

Charming Old Towns

The old towns of Vietnam exude an enchanting allure, preserving the country’s cultural heritage amidst a rapidly modernizing landscape. Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, captivates with its well-preserved ancient town adorned with lantern-lit streets, historic merchant houses, and atmospheric temples. The town’s culinary scene, characterized by delectable street food and traditional dishes, offers a tantalizing journey for the senses.

Hue, the former imperial capital, resonates with the echoes of Vietnam’s dynastic past, as evidenced by the imposing citadel, royal tombs, and ornate pagodas. The Perfume River meanders through the city, adding to its tranquil charm and providing a picturesque backdrop for explorations of its historical treasures.

Breathtaking Scenery

Vietnam’s diverse landscapes range from lush rice terraces to towering limestone karsts, each offering its own brand of natural splendor. Ha Long Bay, with its emerald waters and towering islets adorned with verdant foliage, stands as a testament to Vietnam’s ethereal beauty. A cruise through this UNESCO-listed bay unveils a world of serenity and enchantment amidst the captivating karst formations.

The terraced fields of Sapa, nestled in the northern highlands, paint a mesmerizing tableau of agricultural ingenuity and scenic grandeur. The vibrant colors of the hill tribes’ traditional attire and the mist-shrouded peaks create an otherworldly ambiance that lingers in the memory of visitors.

Vietnam’s charming old towns and breathtaking scenery offer a harmonious blend of cultural immersion and natural wonder. Whether strolling through the ancient streets of Hoi An or embarking on a boat ride along the Mekong Delta, travelers are embraced by Vietnam’s timeless allure and captivating landscapes that unveil the country’s enduring legacy and scenic splendor.

Indonesia: Exotic Islands and Lush Rainforests

Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, is a tropical paradise that entices travelers with its diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and rich biodiversity. From the pristine beaches of Bali to the untamed wilderness of Borneo , Indonesia offers a mesmerizing tapestry of exotic islands and lush rainforests that beckon adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Exotic Islands

Bali, often referred to as the “Island of the Gods,” is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and spiritual allure. The island’s terraced rice fields, adorned with emerald-green paddies, create a serene backdrop for cultural explorations and nature treks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the island’s rich traditions through captivating dance performances, intricate temple ceremonies, and the warm hospitality of its people.

The Komodo Islands, home to the iconic Komodo dragons, offer a unique blend of adventure and natural marvels. Snorkeling in the crystalline waters reveals a kaleidoscope of marine life, while treks through the rugged terrain unveil panoramic vistas and encounters with the legendary Komodo dragons, the world’s largest lizards.

Lush Rainforests

Indonesia’s lush rainforests, teeming with biodiversity, provide a sanctuary for rare and endangered species. The island of Borneo, shared with Malaysia and Brunei, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to witness orangutans in their natural habitat, explore winding rivers, and encounter diverse ecosystems that support a myriad of flora and fauna.

The island of Sumatra, with its sprawling rainforests and rugged terrain, presents a paradise for eco-tourism and wilderness adventures. The UNESCO-listed Gunung Leuser National Park, with its dense canopies and diverse wildlife, invites intrepid explorers to trek through its pristine wilderness and witness the enchanting beauty of the natural world.

Indonesia’s exotic islands and lush rainforests offer a captivating blend of natural splendor and cultural diversity. Whether diving in the crystalline waters of Raja Ampat or trekking through the dense jungles of Kalimantan, travelers are invited to embark on a journey that unveils Indonesia’s remarkable landscapes and ecological treasures, fostering a deep appreciation for the country’s unparalleled natural heritage.

Malaysia: Mix of Cultures and Beautiful Nature

Malaysia, a Southeast Asian gem, beckons travelers with its harmonious blend of diverse cultures, tantalizing cuisine, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur to the pristine shores of Langkawi, Malaysia offers a captivating fusion of cultural immersion and natural beauty that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

Mix of Cultures

Malaysia’s cultural tapestry is woven from a vibrant array of traditions, reflecting the influences of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous communities. The country’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, stands as a testament to this cultural diversity, boasting iconic landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers, historic mosques, and bustling markets where a multitude of languages and traditions converge.

Penang, known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” captivates with its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and a culinary scene that reflects the fusion of diverse culinary traditions. The UNESCO-listed George Town, with its eclectic mix of Chinese temples, Indian shrines, and Malay mosques, offers a captivating journey through Malaysia’s multicultural heritage.

Beautiful Nature

Malaysia’s natural beauty is as diverse as its cultural tapestry, offering a myriad of landscapes that range from lush rainforests to pristine islands. The island of Borneo, shared with Indonesia and Brunei, is home to the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, where travelers can encounter the enchanting biodiversity of the rainforest, witness the iconic proboscis monkeys, and explore the ancient caves of Mulu.

Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands, enchants visitors with its azure waters, powder-soft beaches, and verdant jungles. The Langkawi Geopark, a UNESCO-listed site, showcases the geological wonders of the islands, including ancient rock formations, mangrove forests, and diverse marine life, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the natural splendor of Malaysia.

Malaysia’s mix of cultures and beautiful nature presents a captivating narrative of diversity and natural wonders. Whether savoring the flavors of Nyonya cuisine in Malacca or exploring the ancient rainforests of Taman Negara, travelers are embraced by Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage and awe-inspiring landscapes, fostering a deep appreciation for the country’s unique blend of cultural traditions and ecological treasures.

Singapore: Modern Metropolis and Cultural Diversity

Singapore, a dynamic island city-state in Southeast Asia, allures visitors with its futuristic skyline, multicultural tapestry, and a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. From the iconic Marina Bay Sands to the vibrant enclaves of Chinatown and Little India, Singapore offers a captivating fusion of modernity and cultural diversity that captivates travelers from around the globe.

Modern Metropolis

Singapore’s skyline, adorned with gleaming skyscrapers and architectural marvels, reflects the city-state’s status as a global hub of commerce, technology, and urban sophistication. The Marina Bay Sands, with its iconic rooftop infinity pool and avant-garde design, stands as a symbol of Singapore’s modernity and innovation, offering panoramic views of the cityscape and the bustling harbor below.

The Gardens by the Bay, a futuristic botanical garden featuring the otherworldly Supertree Grove and the spectacular Cloud Forest, showcases Singapore’s commitment to sustainable urban development and the preservation of green spaces within a modern metropolis.

Cultural Diversity

Singapore’s cultural diversity is a tapestry woven from the traditions of its Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Peranakan communities, creating a vibrant mosaic of customs, cuisines, and celebrations. The historic district of Chinatown, with its ornate temples, bustling markets, and traditional shophouses, offers a glimpse into Singapore’s Chinese heritage and the enduring legacy of its early settlers.

Little India, a kaleidoscopic enclave of aromatic spice shops, vibrant sari stores, and ornate Hindu temples, immerses visitors in the rich tapestry of Indian culture, where the sights, sounds, and flavors evoke the essence of the Indian subcontinent.

Singapore’s modern metropolis and cultural diversity converge to create a captivating narrative of progress and heritage. Whether savoring the flavors of Peranakan cuisine in Katong or exploring the vibrant street art of Kampong Glam, travelers are invited to embark on a journey that celebrates Singapore’s rich multicultural heritage and its position as a modern, cosmopolitan city-state at the crossroads of tradition and innovation.

China: Ancient History and Modern Marvels

China, a vast and diverse nation in East Asia, is a captivating tapestry of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. From the iconic Great Wall to the futuristic skyline of Shanghai, China offers a compelling juxtaposition of historical grandeur and contemporary innovation that beckons travelers to explore its enduring legacy and dynamic urban landscapes.

Ancient History

China’s rich historical legacy is evident in its ancient landmarks, revered temples, and imperial treasures. The Great Wall of China, an architectural marvel that spans thousands of miles, stands as a testament to the country’s ancient fortifications and enduring engineering prowess. Visitors can traverse its winding paths, marvel at panoramic vistas, and immerse themselves in the history of this iconic structure.

The Forbidden City, with its opulent palaces, ornate courtyards, and imperial architecture, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of China’s dynastic past. The terracotta warriors of Xi’an, an awe-inspiring archaeological marvel, provide a poignant testament to the legacy of China’s first emperor and the ancient craftsmanship of the Qin Dynasty.

Modern Marvels

China’s modern marvels reflect the nation’s rapid development and technological achievements. Shanghai, a gleaming metropolis on the banks of the Huangpu River, showcases a futuristic skyline adorned with towering skyscrapers, including the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower. The city’s vibrant blend of commerce, culture, and cosmopolitan allure presents a compelling narrative of modern China.

The engineering feat of the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric power station, embodies China’s commitment to sustainable energy and infrastructure development. Meanwhile, the innovative architecture of the Bird’s Nest stadium in Beijing and the avant-garde design of the Guangzhou Opera House epitomize China’s embrace of contemporary design and artistic expression.

China’s ancient history and modern marvels converge to create a captivating narrative of continuity and progress. Whether exploring the ancient alleyways of Beijing’s hutongs or marveling at the sleek urban landscapes of Shenzhen, travelers are invited to embark on a journey through China’s timeless heritage and its dynamic evolution as a global powerhouse of culture, innovation, and historical significance.

Nepal: Himalayan Adventure and Spiritual Retreats

Nepal, a landlocked gem nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, beckons travelers with its awe-inspiring mountain landscapes, ancient heritage, and profound spiritual traditions. From the majestic peaks of the Annapurna range to the serene tranquility of Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Nepal offers a captivating blend of adventure and spiritual rejuvenation that resonates with seekers of natural beauty and inner peace.

Himalayan Adventure

Nepal’s Himalayan terrain, home to eight of the world’s ten highest peaks, including Mount Everest, invites adventurers to embark on treks, mountaineering expeditions, and nature escapades amidst some of the planet’s most breathtaking landscapes. The Annapurna Circuit, with its diverse terrain and panoramic vistas, offers a transformative journey through lush forests, remote villages, and high mountain passes, culminating in the iconic vantage point of Poon Hill.

The Everest Base Camp trek, a legendary odyssey to the foot of the world’s highest peak, presents a profound encounter with the Himalayan giants and the indomitable spirit of mountaineering. The serene lakes of Gokyo, the dramatic landscapes of the Khumbu region, and the warm hospitality of the Sherpa communities add to the allure of Nepal’s Himalayan adventures.

Spiritual Retreats

Nepal’s spiritual heritage is deeply rooted in the teachings of Buddhism and Hinduism, offering a sanctuary for introspection, meditation, and spiritual exploration. Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, is a revered pilgrimage site that exudes a tranquil ambiance, with its sacred gardens, monastic complexes, and the Mayadevi Temple, where the historical significance of Buddha’s enlightenment unfolds.

The ancient city of Kathmandu, with its labyrinthine alleys and ornate temples, including the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa and the revered Pashupatinath Temple, presents a captivating journey through Nepal’s spiritual legacy and religious devotion. The serene retreats of Nagarkot and Dhulikhel, nestled amidst the Himalayan foothills, offer panoramic views and a serene ambiance for contemplation and rejuvenation.

Nepal’s Himalayan adventure and spiritual retreats converge to create a narrative of physical exploration and inner awakening. Whether trekking through the alpine meadows of Langtang or participating in a meditation retreat in the tranquil hills of Pokhara, travelers are invited to embark on a transformative journey through Nepal’s majestic landscapes and profound spiritual heritage, fostering a deep connection to the natural and spiritual wonders of the Himalayan kingdom.

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17 bucket list destinations in Asia you’ll want to add to your 2023 itinerary

Asia is the largest continent in the world. The continent is a melting pot of cultures, which varies from region to region. The place has a varied landscape, complete with snow-capped peaks, volcanoes, and a vast gastronomic culture. So, in case you’re already looking to plan your international trips for 2023, check out the best places in Asia that we feel should definitely make the cut.

Whether it be long treks that bring you the most amazing views or destinations known for their gastronomic delights, Asia is filled with wonders. Some of the most popular tourist spots in the world are here, be it romantic destinations such as the Maldives or Nepal or home to the tallest mountain in the world. Thailand and Singapore, both known for their travel experiences and modernity, are in Asia, so is South Korea, a fast-emerging travel destination for most thanks to the Hallyu wave. Asia also houses destinations such as Japan, China and Cambodia, all known for their natural beauty, cultural heritage and their rich culinary culture.

7 Taiwanese cities beyond Taipei you have to check out

Asia has been a relatively underexplored continent for a long while now. However, over the last couple of years, several Asian destinations have emerged as the topmost travel addresses in the world, both for remote workers and ardent travellers. From beaches in Bali to the pagodas in Myanmar, places in Asia have been on the travel maps for people across the world.

This is not all – there’s enough ancient ruins here for history buffs, and a variety of silks for shoppers to enjoy. There’s also plenty of local artefacts that you can purchase across tourist places in Asia, which will make your travel experience all the more immersive and fun.

So, in case you are looking for ideas to make your travel experiences in 2023 special, check out these tourist places in Asia that will promise you the experience of a lifetime.

Best tourist places in Asia you must visit in 2023

Jump to / table of contents.

Singapore - Best City
Indonesia - Best Beach Destination
Goa - Best Beach Destination
Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi - Best Wedding Destination
Bangkok - Best Shopping Destination
Maldives - Most Romantic Destination
Malaysia - Best Digital Nomad Destination
Japan - Best Cultural Destination
Qatar - Best Family Vacation Destination
Dubai - Best Adventure Destination
Bhutan - Best Emerging Destination
Uttarakhand - Best Emerging Destination
Cambodia - Destination To Get A Taste Of Royalty
Vietnam - Best Culinary Destination
Bali - Best Destination To get Close To Nature
Sri Lanka - Best Wildlife Destination
Ishigaki Island, Okinawa, Japan - Best stargazing destination

The island city of Singapore is also among the most popular in Asia for its tech and economy. The country is a haven for travellers, too, thanks to its stunning spots. That, combined with ample luxury hotels and a vast culinary culture, Singapore is definitely a place that calls out to all kinds of travellers. The cuisine here is an amalgamation of Indian, Chinese, Indonesian and other cuisine thanks to its largely immigrant population. Places such as Chinatown offer a peek into local ingredients, skincare and more, which will have you wanting more.

Best things to explore: Sentosa Islands, Marina Bay Sands, Gardens By The Bay, Singapore Flyer, Jurong Bird Park, Clarke Quay, Orchard Road, Chinatown

Things to eat: Satay, street food, chilli crab, nasi goreng

Best time to visit: December to June

How to reach: Changi Airport is well-connected to most countries by flight

Indonesia is the largest archipelago on Earth. The country is an amalgamation of thousands of islands (over 17,000 for sure), thus being home to enough beaches to last you a lifetime. The country is also home to Bali, the island that is visited by tourists from across the world. Bali houses wildlife parks, beautiful beaches and several historical sites to make for days of fun.

Best things to explore: Monkey Park in Ubud, beaches in Bali, Kuta and Lombok

Things to eat: Nasi Goreng, coconut water, rendang, satay

Best time to visit: December to June for the perfectly cool climate

How to reach: Destinations across Indonesia are well-connected to major countries via air

While Indonesia is a beach haven if you want to travel abroad, India’s own party capital, Goa, is no less. Blessed with some of the most stunning beaches along its coastline, Goa is heaven for those who love the sea, making it exceptionally popular among the youth. This is not all – the state comes complete with natural treasure troves as well as ample historical sites for the explorer in you.

Best things to explore: Beaches, forts, national parks, waterfalls, spice gardens

Things to eat: Xacuti, Poi, Goan-style curries

Best time to visit: November to February

How to reach: Goa is reachable by flight from all major countries and is also well-connected by train routes

Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi - Best Wedding Destination

Located in Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island is a beautiful mix of heritage, modernity and culture. The island is ideal for a destination wedding, being equipped with luxury resorts, hotels, beachy venues and gastronomic cuisine. This is not all – Abu Dhabi is home to places such as Yas Island, known for its adventure and tourism, and some of the most delicious food you’ll find. Perfect for a wedding and even your honeymoon!

Best things to explore: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Dubai

Things to eat: Shawarma, chicken rice, Ma Khoboz

Best time to visit: November to March

How to reach: Abu Dhabi and the UAE is well-connected to major countries by flight

Bangkok is heaven for those in the mood for some shopping. The capital of Thailand, Bangkok has enough malls and local markets for all kinds of shopping. Be it luxurious and on-trend clothes or knick-knacks that will amp up an outfit, Bangkok is definitely ahead of most countries when it comes to fashion trends, making for a great shopping experience.

Best things to explore: Temple of Dawn, sky train, malls and local markets

Things to eat: Thai curries, satay, Pad Thai, fried banana pancakes, dumplings

How to reach: The Bangkok airport has flights to and from most major countries

There’s no destination that speaks of romance like the Maldives . The beachy heaven is known for its luxe resorts, villas over seas and the most amazing experiences to cherish, Maldives is a great place to visit if you want to amp up the romance. No wonder that this is the preferred honeymoon destination for so many newlyweds! Spend some time by the sea, go scuba diving or explore the many islands there.

Best things to explore: Scuba diving, glowing beach, National Museum

Things to eat: Garudhiya, Masroshi, Banana flower salad

Best time to visit: October to March

How to reach: Male Airport is well-connected by destinations across the world. From there, hop onto a seaplane or a ferry to reach your island.

Malaysia - Best Digital Nomad Destination

Thanks to the pandemic, lakhs of people worked from home, and thousands realised that this mode allowed them to travel in ways unimaginable earlier. So, if you’re one of them who is looking to be a digital nomad and work from anywhere, one of the best tourist places you can hit up is Malaysia. The country recently launched this visa, and is a relatively affordable destination to live in and work from. An added bonus? The stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage will make the experience a thoroughly enriching one for you!

Best things to explore: Petronas Twin Towers, Langkawi SkyCab, Batu Caves

Things to eat: Satay, Nasi Kerabu, Rendang

Best time to visit: November to April

How to reach: Malaysia is well-connected to most countries via flight

If you think of culture, heritage and ample delectable meals, the tourist place in Asia that will definitely come to mind is Japan . The country is known for its blooming cherry blossoms, ancient temples, old-age traditions and scrumptious offerings that it has given to the world. It’s also among the safest destinations for solo (especially women) travellers, making it a must-visit.

Best things to explore: Temples, bullet train rides, Japanese tea ceremony

Things to eat: Udon noodles, sushi, Japanese tea, Okonimiyaki

Best time to visit: March to May, September to November (to be able to see cherry blossoms)

How to reach: Japanese airports are well-connected to major countries across the world

Qatar - Best Family Vacation Destination

Qatar has been among the most popular emerging destinations for travellers. This can be attributed to the FIFA World Cup that’s happening there. The country (especially Doha, its capital), have been home to a host of visitors from across the world. And football aside, the country is a great destination for families to visit. With ample culture and heritage, paired with some of the best food (Middle-Eastern and otherwise), the country is truly among the best you can visit.

Best things to explore: Doha, mosques, beaches

Things to eat: Majboos, Luqaimat, Saloona

Best time to visit: December to early March

How to reach: Qatar is reachable by flights across the world

There’s something about Dubai that calls out to tourists like no other Asian destination. The city, a part of the UAE, is great for luxury travellers looking for fun adventures. Be it desert safaris or long water slides, Dubai has it all. You can also climb atop the tallest building in the world – the Burj Khalifa- for some magnificent views of the city.

Best things to explore: Desert safari, Dubai Aquarium, Burj Khalifa, Mall of Emirates

Things to eat: Manousheh, Chelo Kebab

Best time to visit: Winter (December to March) is the best season to visit Dubai.

How to reach: Dubai can be reached from almost all countries, thanks to its amazing connectivity

Bhutan is a quaint, simple country with a more laidback approach to life. The destination is filled with architectural marvels, especially its stunning natural beauty. This makes it among the best places in Asia to visit. This emerging destination will speak to the adventurer in you for sure!

Best things to explore: Monasteries, Tiger Hill, Paro

Things to eat: Ema Datshi, Khur Le

Best time to visit: The destination is a bit cold, so you can visit during the summers until December

How to reach: Bhutan can be reached from India via road and air

Uttarakhand has been popular for religious and spiritual tourism for a long while, especially in India. The destination is now emerging as a popular one for tourists of all kinds – leisure travellers, adventure tourists and more. Explore the state’s many lakes, temples and mountains for a fun time.

Best things to explore: Rafting in Rishikesh, lakes, treks

Things to eat: Bhaang ki chutney, Bal mithai, Khadi, Arsa

Best time to visit: Summers (May to October)

How to reach: Dehradun can be reached by air, while other destinations are well-connected by road and train

Cambodia - Destination To Get A Taste Of Royalty

The royal destination is among the best places to visit in Asia. Cambodia is known for its beautiful landscapes, low-lying plains and stunning natural beauty. The destination is known equally for its cuisine, which boasts of rich, tropical and umami flavours.

Best things to explore: Angkor Wat, Koh Rong, Phnom Penh

Things to eat: Amok, Kuy Teav, pepper crab

Best time to visit: December to March

How to reach: Cambodia is well-connected by air

If there’s one cultural cuisine that bursts with umami goodness, it’s Vietnamese cuisine . The country, apart from its beautiful landscapes, is known for its food. Everywhere you go, you’ll be met with local, regional delicacies that will bowl you over, as you soak in new, exciting experiences and visit stunning destinations.

Best things to explore: Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City

Things to eat: Pho, Banh Mi, Banh Cuon

How to reach: Vietnam is well-connected via flights

Bali - Best Destination To get Close To Nature

Bali in Indonesia is a popular place in Asia known for its scenic natural beauty. Not just its beaches, Bali also has a rich heritage and culture, which draws crowds. And if you’re looking for a nature sojourn, the island has ample treks and trails for you to be one with your surroundings.

Best things to explore: Uluwatu, Ubud Monkey Park, Mount Batur

Things to eat: Babi Guling, Kopi Luwak, Lawar

Best time to visit: Winter months (December to March)

How to reach: The island is well-connected with all major countries by air

Sri Lanka is a mesmerising country you can visit. The nation is especially known for its beaches, nature and wildlife, all of which combine to provide you with the most amazing experience that you could imaging. Go on nature trails, visit wildlife parks and see the wild beasts up, close and personal in this country.

Best things to explore: Temples, forts

Things to eat: Sambal, curries, roti

How to reach: Sri Lanka can be reached by air or by sea

Ishigaki Island, Okinawa, Japan - Best stargazing destination

What’s key to clear skies? Clean air! And in Okinawa, Japan, you can experience it the best. Visit the destination for clear skies and water, and indulge your senses in some night-time stargazing sessions for a fun activity. Rest assured, the destination’s natural and cultural offerings will make for a wholesome trip!

Best things to explore: Stargazing, beaches, castles, temples

Things to eat: Soba noodles, Okinawan-style stewed pork, sea grapes

How to reach: Okinawa can be reached by air

Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy of Dylan Shaw/Unsplash

Related: Plan Your Itineraries Well In Advance And Bookmark These Best Places To Visit In India In 2023

17 bucket list destinations in Asia you’ll want to add to your 2023 itinerary

Anushka Goel

Anushka has worked with publications such as Times of India and Being Indian. A graduate from Xavier Institute of Communications, she specialises in entertainment, food and travel. She also likes to write about sustainability and beauty. When not working, you can catch her reading a book, tending to her plants, cooking or playing an instrument.

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Recap: The Top 11 Most Visited Countries In Asia In 2023

D eciding where to travel in Asia gets easier by skimming 2023’s most visited countries in Asia. The big surprise is that Saudi Arabia (technically a part of Asia) beat out Thailand for the top spot by around 2 million visitors. This article recaps the Asian countries with the most international visitors in 2023 (last year). You can use these raw rankings as a starting point to plan your next Asia adventure.

2020 Asia Tourist Visitors Ranked

Saudi arabia: 30 million visitors, thailand: 26.6 million visitors, japan: 21.5 million visitors, indonesia: 17.6 million visitors, malaysia: 15.5 million visitors, vietnam: 15.4 million visitors, india: 13.1 million visitors, singapore: 12.8 million visitors, south korea: 12.2 million visitors, philippines: 10.1 million visitors, sri lanka: 8.1 million visitors, overview of tourism in asia in 2023.

In pre-pandemic 2019, Thailand hosted 39.9 million international visitors. In 2021, only 428,000 visited. 2022 began a resurgence, with 11.2 million foreign visitors . In 2023, there were 26.6 million international arrivals, according to GlobalData.

Those numbers are only topped by Saudi Arabia — also making big efforts to attract visitors. Is Saudi Arabia part of Asia? Technically, yes. Saudi Arabia rests on the Arabian Plate. That is part of the larger Eurasian Plate, which encompasses most of mainland Asia.

In October 2023, Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister Ahmed Al Khateeb announced 30 million international tourists for that year. Al Khateeb’s is the only official mention on the matter from the tight-lipped regime.

Yet, Saudi Arabia has undertaken ambitious tourism goals that do appear to be fueling Middle East travel. Top things for visitors to do there:

Ancient ruins: Step back in time at Mada’in Saleh, Hegra, or Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, marveling at UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Nabataean wonders.
Culture: visit old Jeddah, wander through vibrant bazaars, visit the National Museum in Riyadh.
Grand Mosque: Experience the spiritual significance of the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina (restricted access for non-Muslims).
Desert safaris: drive to the Empty Quarter to go sandboarding down red dunes, or camp under the starry sky.
Red Sea: explore vibrant coral reefs in Jeddah, Duba, or Yanbu. Each offers world-class diving and snorkeling adventures.
Island life: visit the Farasan Islands for pristine beaches, dolphin watching, and shipwreck explorations.
Mountain hikes: trek through the lush valleys and peaks of Abha. Along the way, visit historic villages and enjoy breathtaking sunrises over the Sarawat Mountains.
Food tours: explore traditional Saudi cuisine like Kabsa, Shawarma, and Luqaimat.
Touristy stuff: go skiing in the Sarawat Mountains; visit Riyadh’s vibrant entertainment zones; watch dazzling water shows at the King Abdullah Park.

Thailand’s brilliant mix of everything makes it easily the best tourist destination in Asia for a good time. Beyond amazing food and friendly locals are beaches and jungles and world-class infrastructure.

The Ministry of Tourism doesn’t keep accurate data on international visitors to different parts of the country. Even so, based on general sentiment (on the ground and also online) there are some clear top picks for visitors to consider here.

Thailand Highlights

Bangkok: An essential hub for every foreign visitor to Asia. It’s a kaleidoscopic, one-of-a-kind blend of history, culture, modern attractions, and naughty, hedonistic nightlife options.
Phuket: the southern island version of Bangkok, facing the Andaman Sea. It’s large, well-developed, with plenty of activities (pristine beaches, charming towns, Muay Thai training, food tours, magic-mushroom hiking, etc).
Chiang Mai: a more laid-back, northern-flavored version of Bangkok. It’s known for beautiful temples, digital nomads, vegan food, mountain cycling, traditional markets, and more.
Krabi: still the best pure beach experience in Thailand. Enjoy dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, stunning beaches, and decent infrastructure for this more demanding era. Rock climbing, kayaking, and island hopping are popular activities here.
Koh Samui: a more rustic version of Phuket, facing the South China Sea. Explore high-end luxury resorts, budget party beaches, and decent infrastructure between the two.
Koh Phi Phi: this stunning island’s Maya Bay first became famous as the setting in the movie “The Beach.” It then became famous for being overrun by tourists. After closing from 2018-2022, Maya Bay is fully open in 2024.
Pai: located a 3-hour drive northwest of Chiang Mai, this is a laid-back town with touristy hippie vibes. Attractions include waterfalls, hot springs, magic mushrooms, elephant sanctuaries, and a variety of outdoor activities.
Khao Sok National Park: a 3-hour drive north of Phuket City, this vast national park is home to rainforests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy trekking, jungle tours, and exploring limestone caves.

Japan’s tourism industry has flourished post-pandemic. After the lockdowns, many world-famous streamers and Youtubers flocked here.

End-to-end, Japan provides easy access to a homogenous but welcoming culture, ancient traditions, a spectacular food scene, and futuristic cities that are dense yet amazingly laid out to feel harmonious.

Even so, visitors coming here for less than three months can find more than enough to experience and explore by sticking to Japan’s two big cities. Fly into one, take a bullet train to the other.

One of the world’s most impressive metropolis areas. It houses around 14.03 million people across 2,194 square kilometers, with a population density of 6,158 persons per square kilometer.

Fast-paced, modern metropolis: Experience cutting-edge technology, iconic landmarks like Shibuya Crossing and the Tokyo Tower, and diverse neighborhoods from vibrant Akihabara to serene Imperial Gardens.
Extensive cultural offerings: Immerse yourself in traditional arts like kabuki and Noh theater, explore renowned museums like the Tokyo National Museum, and discover unique culinary experiences beyond sushi.

A smaller and denser version of Tokyo with around 18.9 million people across 223 square kilometers (population density 12,214 persons per square kilometer).

Lively, foodie paradise: Indulge in street food delights from Dotonbori, savor local specialties like okonomiyaki, and enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene with lively bars and restaurants.
Fun-loving, laid-back atmosphere: Explore Universal Studios Japan for thrilling rides, wander through historic Osaka Castle and Dotombori district, and experience the warm and welcoming Osaka spirit.

Indonesia offers an incredible blend of stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Based on recent statistics and trends, here were 5 of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia in 2023:

Bali: The undisputed number one, with stunning beaches, vibrant culture, delicious food, and diverse activities.
Lombok: Bali’s less-crowded neighbor, Lombok, has pristine beaches, breathtaking landscapes (like Mount Rinjani volcano), and unique cultural experiences. The Gili Islands off Lombok’s coast are also popular for divers.
Labuan Bajo: The gateway to Komodo National Park. See Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. Then, explore stunning beaches and vibrant coral reefs.
Yogyakarta: Immerse yourself in Javanese culture at the Borobudur temple, Prambanan temple complex, and surrounding batik markets. Explore Malioboro street, enjoy traditional performances, and watch a Ramayana ballet.
Lake Toba: explore the world’s largest volcanic lake. Hike to waterfalls, explore Samosir Island’s traditional villages, enjoy boat tours, and try local cuisine.

Malaysia offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Its bustling capital city Kuala Lumpur serves as a hub of diversity, with the iconic Petronas Twin Towers dominating the downtown cityscape.

Top attractions for visitors in 2023:

Langkawi: This archipelago has pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, duty-free shopping, lush rainforests, cable car rides, and historical sites.
Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s bustling multicultural capital is a fun place to spend a few days eating, shopping, and sightseeing.
Penang: This island boasts historical heritage, delicious street food, colonial architecture, nice beaches, and unique hill stations like Penang Hill.
Cameron Highlands: Escape the tropical heat in this cool, mountainous region. Enjoy scenic tea plantations, strawberry farms, hiking trails, waterfalls, and charming towns like Tanah Rata and Brinchang.
Malacca: Explore Baba Nyonya heritage, Portuguese and Dutch colonial architecture, St. Paul’s Church, Jonker Street night market, and delicious local cuisine.
Sabah: Trek through rainforests in Borneo, meet orangutans at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, and explore Mount Kinabalu’s majesty.
Perhentian Islands: these idyllic islands famed for snorkeling, diving, and blissful beach relaxing.

Vietnam borders other popular tourist destinations like Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos. That makes it an easy place to combine with trips to nearby countries. It also has a dynamic food culture and a range of easily accessible attractions.

Ha Long Bay: This UNESCO World Heritage Site has towering limestone karsts jutting out of emerald waters. You can explore the bay by boat, kayak, or seaplane, with many caves and grottoes to explore.
Hoi An: A pretty, very touristy town with well-preserved architecture, colorful lanterns, and tailor shops. Spend a few days here wandering around, taking photos, and souvenir shopping.
Ho Chi Minh City: Formerly called Saigon, this bustling metropolis is Vietnam’s largest city. Beyond amazing food tours, visitor attractions include the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the Ben Thanh knockoff goods market.
Nha Trang: This beach resort town has a large Russian expat community. Nha Trang offers a beautiful stretch of beach, boat trips to nearby islands, and a decent tourist nightlife scene.
Sapa: This mountain town in northwest of Vietnam and is known for its rice terraces, waterfalls, and mountains. Visit here for trekking, day hikes, or relaxing in the fresh mountain air.

Home to 1.4 billion people, India is easily the most diverse tourist destination in Asia. Its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes present limitless options to explore. Traveling here is best with plenty of time.

I spent four months exploring the north (Himchal Pradesh to Ladakh) and only saw a fraction. In a second trip, I spent three months exploring the south and again only experienced a tiny slice of life there. If planning a trip there, consider targeting only a few of its highlights.

India Highlights

Golden Triangle (Delhi – Agra – Jaipur): The quintessential Indian tourist itinerary. It covers the urban madness of Delhi, the Taj Mahal in Agra, and the Arabian Nights feel around the deserts of Jaipur.
Varanasi: Witness the spiritual essence in gritty Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world. Take a boat ride along the Ganges River at sunrise, observe traditional rituals and ceremonies, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this dense sacred city.
Himachal Pradesh: visit the Himalayan foothills to experience mountain cultures, hike through ganja fields, and enjoy India’s slowest-paced, most chilled-out destination.
Kerala: Explore tranquil backwaters lined with lush greenery while experiencing southern India’s vibrant colors, cultures, and unique cuisines.
Goa: This laid-back state has beaches, full moon parties, vibrant nightlife, charming churches and a rich Portuguese heritage.
Darjeeling & Sikkim: Nestled in the Himalayas, Darjeeling and Sikkim offer breathtaking mountain scenery, charming hill stations, and diverse wildlife. Enjoy scenic train rides, explore monasteries and Buddhist temples, and trek through stunning landscapes.
Rishikesh: Located in the Himalayan foothills, this spiritual town is a hub for yoga and meditation. Explore the Ganges River as it descends from the mountains to the southern cities below.

This vibrant city-state is a clean, orderly tourist mecca. Beyond its modern skyline and diverse cultural influences are lush green spaces and a kaleidoscopic array of shopping and dining experiences. Highlights:

Jewel Changi Airport: Experience Singaporean hospitality right after you clear customs. Experience a Rain Vortex waterfall, a Canopy Park with walking trails and slides, plus various shopping and dining options.
Hawker Centers: Wander around randomly and you’ll come across hawker centers offering affordable local dishes like Satay, Hainanese Chicken Rice, and Chili Crab.
Chinatown: Wander through bustling streets lined with colorful shophouses while savor delicious Chinese cuisines.
Little India: This vibrant district is filled with colorful temples, textile shops, and aromatic spices.
Gardens by the Bay: Explore futuristic gardens with Supertrees (towering vertical gardens), a Cloud Forest with misty waterfalls, and a Flower Dome showcasing diverse floral displays.
Sentosa Island: A resort island offering thrill rides rides at Universal Studios Singapore, the S.E.A Aquarium, artificial beaches, and the historical Fort Siloso.
Singapore Zoo: Explore diverse animal habitats at this award-winning zoo (known for its commitment to animal welfare and open enclosures).

South Korea has diverse landscapes with unique regional cultures. But for many visitors, the vibrant heartbeat lies in Seoul and its surroundings. Here, bustling markets thrum with energy, flowing with cold draft beer and hundreds of mouthwatering local eats.

Whether seeking historical immersion or K-Pop thrills, Seoul has it all. Beyond the metropolis are stunning mountains, idyllic coastlines, and many opportunities to enjoy your evenings. Seoul highlights:

Myeongdong Shopping District: Seoul’s premier shopping district beckons fashionistas with trendy clothing stores and beauty shops. Interwoven are diverse food and cafe options — a delightful mix of shopping and leisure experiences.
N Seoul Tower: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul with a short hike up Namsan Mountain. Marvel at the city skyline before heading down to Itaewon (2 km away) for some cold beers.
Insadong District: Soak up old and new Korean culture among a maze of traditional Korean crafts, antiques, and modern art galleries. Meet local artists (including many college students) and chill out at the many cafes or restaurants in the area.
Korean Folk Village: This short bus ride into the outskirts of Seoul takes you back in time to a traditional Korean Folk Village. Explore reconstructed houses from different historical periods, watch traditional performances, and sample some interesting old-time fare.
Lotte World: Located in eastern Seoul near the banks of the Han River, this is one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world. Enjoy exciting rides, explore diverse themed zones, and experience a unique blend of Korean and international culture.
Gwangjang Market: A full-on Korean outdoor market experience with hearty bargaining, WW2 relics, and amazing street food. Within walking distance of the Jongno 5-ga Metro Station.
Bukchon Hanok Village: Step back in time in the heart of downtown Seoul through narrow alleys lined with centuries-old wooden houses (hanoks). Popular with tourists, amazing street food vendors now line the ascent up through the alleys.
Itaewon: a few seedy bars serviced nearby U.S. military staff in the 1980s. Flocks of English teachers joined the party in the 90s, turning Itaewon into a foreign-friendly party district. In 2024, it’s still lined with a world tour of cuisines, foreigner-friendly bars, and many tourist services.

The Philippines is an archipelago in Southeast Asia with stunning beaches , vibrant culture , and rich history . Manila glimmers (in parts) with a mix of Spanish colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers.

Visitors can also look forward to hundreds of white sand beach destinations, lush rice terraces, hearty local food, and a fun-loving, English-speaking local population. Highlights:

Manila: you can easily spend a few days here exploring the walled city, visiting historical landmarks like Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church, luxury shopping, and savoring the diverse culinary scene.
El Nido, Palawan: Renowned for stunning limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, hidden lagoons, and white-sand beaches.
Boracay Island: This is a ‘couples’ island’ with powdery white sand beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a more sustainable experience than it was in the past.
Siargao Island: Surfers flock here for the legendary waves, particularly Cloud 9. The island also offers stunning beaches, laid-back charm, and a growing selection of cafes and restaurants.
Cebu City: The Philippines’ second-largest city has rich history, delicious cuisine, and various sightseeing options. These include visiting Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, diving with whale sharks in Oslob, or trekking through the Kawasan Falls.
Batanes Islands: A unique cultural and geographical landscape known for its rolling hills, stone houses, strong winds, and friendly Ivatan people.

This teardrop-shaped island in the Indian Ocean offers a diverse range of attractions . These include ancient cities with archaeological sites , beautiful beaches and lush landscapes , and humble, hard-working people surviving in ramshackle conditions.

Columbo: A bustling, crowded city with a nice mix of colonial architecture, bustling street markets, international class shopping malls, and trendy cafes.
Ella: A charming village nestled in the hills, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Nuwara Eliya: A hill station with a cool climate, rolling hills, and tea plantations. Escape the heat and enjoy some outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Sigiriya: This ancient rock fortress (aka Lion Rock) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ruins of the palace that once stood there. Then, climb the 1,200 steps to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Yala National Park: Home to a diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and sloth bears. Most people explore the park on jeep safaris.
Arugam Bay: A surfer’s paradise with some of the best waves in Sri Lanka, stunning beaches, laid-back vibes, yoga, and plenty of other activities.
Mirissa: Tourists flock to this beach town to relax, swim, spot whales and dolphins, and enjoy seafood in local restaurants.
Udawalawe National Park: Known for its large elephant population. You can see these gentle giants up close on a jeep safari or elephant safari.

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Basic Statistic Value of international tourism spending APAC 2022, by country
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Premium Statistic Most expensive cities for business travel APAC Q4 2022, by daily cost

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Value of domestic tourism expenditure in the Asia-Pacific region in 2022, by country or territory (in billion U.S. dollars)

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Year-over-year (YoY) change in monthly international seat capacity in the Asia-Pacific region in 2023

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Most used online travel agencies Asia 2023, by country

Most used online travel agencies in Asia as of June 2023, by country or territory

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Taiwan Earthquake: What to Know About Travel and How to Help

By Rachel Chang

Image may contain Neighborhood City Architecture Building Cityscape Urban Metropolis Mountain and Mountain Range

The strongest earthquake to hit Taiwan in almost 25 years shook the island of nearly 24 million people at 7:58 a.m. local time on Wednesday, causing buildings to crash, landmarks to crumble, and landslides to topple roadways and train tracks. As of press time, there are 10 reported deaths, as well as 1,099 people injured, 705 trapped, and 11 missing, according to an update from Taiwan’s Fire Agency posted Thursday morning.

While the US Geological Survey measured the quake at 7.4 on the Richter scale , Taiwan’s own monitoring agency clocked it at 7.2. The earthquake’s epicenter was about 11 miles southwest of Hualien City, the gateway to the popular Taroko National Park , which sees over 2 million visitors a year. With a population of about 101,000, the coastal city is around 100 miles southeast of the capital, Taipei.

The initial quake was followed by a series of aftershocks —some as strong as 6.4 and 5.7 —that have continued to rock the Hualien County region, which regularly experiences earthquakes. The area sits along seismic fault lines within the Ring of Fire, where most of the planet’s quakes occur. In 2018, a 2018 6.4-magnitude quake in the area killed 17 people, while a larger 7.7-magnitude quake killed 2,400 and injured about 1,000 in 1999.

While there had initially been a tsunami warning on Wednesday reaching as far as Japan and the Philippines, that alert has since been canceled. In many parts of the island, especially in and around the capital, schools, work, and businesses returned to normal quickly—including the high-speed rail and metro systems by the afternoon—much of it being credited to the island’s resilient infrastructure .

In fact, a US State Department spokesperson tells Condé Nast Traveler that there are no changes or updates to the current travel advisory for Taiwan, which remains as a Level 1 “Exercise Normal Precautions.”

“The current tourism environment and facilities in Taiwan remain safe and intact,” Yung-hui Chou, director-general of Taiwan Tourism Administration , said in a statement shared with Traveler. “International tourists are warmly welcomed to visit Taiwan without any concerns.”

However, in the eastern region, closer to the epicenter, rescue operations are still underway, as many people were reported trapped in the region’s tunnels and quarries, unable to get out because of blocked roadways. Among those were about 50 employees of Silks Place Taroko, a popular hotel located near Taroko National Park, who had been traveling in four buses, CNN reported .

Minimal disruptions for travelers

Despite the magnitude and devastation the earthquakes caused, travel in and out of Taiwan has remained rather status quo. A United Airlines spokesperson says there was “thankfully no impact” to its operations and that “all our people are safe."

Taiwanese carrier EVA Air also says the natural disaster hasn’t affected its current or future operations, and that all of its flights at Taoyuan International Airport remain on schedule. EVA Air’s domestic subsidiary UNI Air added extra flights to and from Hualien for residents and families, as well as for rescue workers and emergency supplies to be transported back and forth.

Taiwan's major airports, ports, and railways are all operating normally in major cities, according to the Taiwan Tourism Administration, which noted transit capabilities may vary by region, especially in the eastern mountainous area.

The railway in Hualien suffered “sustained significant damage,” says Ivy Yang, a Taipei-based travel consultant for My Taiwan Tour . Yang suggests travelers steer away from Hualien at this time due to dangerous road conditions and the numerous landslides on the coastline and in Taroko Gorge. Most hotels in Hualien will allow fee-free cancellations in light of the events, she says, with Silk Place Taroko being closed for several days. Otherwise, travel on Taiwan’s west coast remains safe, according to Yang, but those looking to travel around the island might have trouble between Hualien and Yilan.

A spokesperson for the tourism bureau’s New York office says the Taiwanese government is “actively arranging alternative options of transportation” in affected areas, reminding travelers “to stay informed about conditions in their specific destinations and adjust their plans accordingly.”

What to do if you have a future trip planned

For those with upcoming trips, the Taiwan Tourism Administration suggests keeping travel plans flexible while monitoring the situation and following the relevant advisories from authorities. “We believe most travel plans are expected to proceed smoothly,” the spokesperson for the administration says. “Travelers with plans to visit the eastern region of Taiwan are advised to remain vigilant and stay informed about the latest developments.”

Tour operator Intrepid Travel has canceled two upcoming Taiwan departures that were scheduled to start both this week and next week “to allow time for further safety assessments and to avoid the immediate risk of aftershocks,” the company’s president of the Americas Matt Berna tells Traveler. “Damage looks extensive in Hualien, but we are currently unaware of the full extent.” The company is working on rerouting its itinerary around Hualien for upcoming tours.

One of the biggest concerns is the potential of future aftershocks—some of which could be bigger than the original earthquake, according to Josh Dozor, a former Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) official and the current general manager of Medical and Security Assistance at the global risk mitigation company International SOS .

“If you do not need to travel, it is best to stay put,” Dozor says, advising those with travel plans to Hualien County to postpone their trip until at least April 5.

“It’s important to note that Taiwan is an island that experiences earthquakes on a relatively frequent basis,” he says. “The locals are typically equipped with the knowledge and experience of handling earthquakes, which may be why it seems people are continuing life as usual. However, for travelers who are inexperienced in these types of natural disasters, it’s important to remain vigilant and be prepared.”

How to help Taiwan's earthquake victims

When it comes to supporting Earthquake victims, Taiwan “kindly request[s] friends from around the globe to stay updated with the latest developments and keep us in your thoughts and prayers,” the tourism association spokesperson says.

However, those who would like to offer monetary support to Taiwan’s earthquake victims can consider donating to the following organizations.

Taiwan Foundation for Disaster Relief Per a Facebook post from Taiwan’s National Fire Agency Thursday morning, a disaster relief foundation that accepts public donations has been set up through the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Donations can be transferred using the bank details here or via this site and will be accepted for one month through May 3.

Taiwan’s Red Cross Society Just hours after the earthquake struck, the local Red Cross posted on X that their Hualien relief team and military units are “rapidly mobilizing to minimize the impact and provide assistance to those affected.” Donations can be made to the organization here .

Peace Winds America’s Taiwan Disaster Preparedness Initiative The Washington, DC based NGO Peace Winds America currently has a Taiwan Disaster Preparedness Initiative to “strengthen Taiwan’s domestic disaster preparedness, response, and ‘whole of society’ coordination,” among other goals. Learn more about the program and how to donate here .

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People walk along a beach on a tropical island. Blue boats are in the background.

Why Time Is Running Out Across the Maldives’ Lovely Little Islands

Global tourism brought a modern economy to the country’s thousand islands. For many Maldivians, the teeming capital beckons.

Teenagers gathering to watch the sun set in Nolhivaranfaru, a remote island in the Maldives. Credit...

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By Alex Travelli and Maahil Mohamed

Photographs by Elke Scholiers

Reporting from Malé, its nearby islands and Nolhivaranfaru in the Maldives

April 6, 2024

To live in the Maldives is to live in one of two worlds. Either you belong to the capital — Malé, a micro-Manhattan in the Indian Ocean — or you are out in “the islands,” among the quietest and most remote villages this side of the Arctic tundra.

It is in these places — far from the archipelago’s walled-garden resort atolls, where no Maldivians actually dwell — that the country is picking between two visions of its future, like much of the rest of Asia, but more so.

The outer islands are steadily depopulating, as the appeal of making a life through tuna fishing and coconut farming along their crushed-coral seashores shrinks. The splendid isolation may be what attracts visitors, but it seems incompatible with islanders’ aspirations in a nation modernized by global tourism.

As Maldivians give up on island life, the government feels compelled to keep building up Malé, the country’s one real city. But Malé is already pressed up hard against the limits of human habitation. By some measures, it is the most densely populated island on earth, with over a third of the country’s 520,000 people on a landmass that can be crossed by foot in about 20 minutes.

Cars drive along a long bridge that runs over the water off a densely packed island.

If more Maldivians are going to move there, its physical structure will need to be radically reworked. In the meantime, it is sprawling outward wherever it can: The government is surrounding Malé with sea bridges to artificial islands packed with housing projects financed by China and India .

On Jan. 22, President Mohamed Muizzu announced his otherworldly vision for an undersea tunnel between Malé proper and a land-reclamation project where Chinese investors will help build 65,000 housing units on what is now barely a sandbar.

Mr. Muizzu, a civil engineer by training, said the tunnel would “provide beautiful views of the sea” as commuters passed through it. (Feasibility to be determined.)

Humay Ghafoor, a researcher who campaigns against environmental degradation, said that “nobody does any assessments” before commissioning “massive infrastructure” projects. This allows an airport, for instance, to be built over a mangrove, destroying a whole island’s freshwater supply.

The Maldives consists of a thousand islands stretched along a 550-mile axis, each one a bit of exposed coral that grew from the rims of a prehistoric range of undersea volcanoes. These form rings called atolls — a word that comes to English from the native Dhivehi language. Most of the 188 inhabited islands have fewer than 1,000 residents.

The resorts — those airy villas floating over turquoise seas — are all on technically “uninhabited” islands. The guests are foreign, and most of the staff is, too, mainly from India and Bangladesh. In some ways, the resorts are like offshore oil rigs, pumping out nearly all of the country’s income. By design, they are divorced from Maldivian culture and abstracted from their South Asian location.

Bay of Bengal

Nolhivaranfaru

The typical inhabited island is likewise rich in sunshine and warmth and has access to a shallow lagoon, palm trees and maybe a mangrove forest. The inhabitants are highly literate, many are English-speaking and they are connected to the rest of the world by the internet, mobile data and long ferry routes.

Their traditions survive, still. Perhaps every island except Malé has a holhuashi, a covered seating platform at its harbor, sometimes circled by hanging woven chairs. Men gather to rest at midday and exchange gossip.

There is little doubt that climate change will eventually bring doom to this country, most of which is just a meter or two above sea level. But that catastrophe is thought to be a century or more away.

Instead, Maldivians are leaving the islands for the sake of their children, looking to Malé and the world beyond. When it comes to education and health care, there is no substitute for city life.

Nolhivaranfaru, a fishhook-shaped bit of powdery white sand, with a green and fertile core between its beaches, is like many of the Maldives’ inhabited islands. Flowering frangipani stand over an Islamic cemetery near its piers, centered around a centuries-old shrine to an Arab pilgrim. It takes 25 minutes by speedboat to reach the nearest landmass and two airplanes from there to get to neighboring India.

That is a journey that Maryam Asima, a 30-year-old mother of twins, made at great cost and personal hardship. She and her husband, the captain of a tourist yacht that docks 175 miles away, near Malé, had been unable to conceive. Two years ago, Ms. Asima and her sister, who was in a similar position, traveled to Kochi, India, a city of 2.1 million, where they made do on their own during 11 months of IVF treatment.

Health care remains rudimentary even on the better connected of the outer islands. Staff at the local clinic scoff at the idea of someday providing IVF. They say quietly that even most emergency care is beyond them: Any patient who needs a ventilator must be flown hundreds of miles away.

Ms. Asima, now back on the island with her 6-month-old twins, says she is satisfied with the results of her ordeal. Her sister has given her a nephew, too. With her encouragement, two other women from the island have become pregnant in the same way. The government has started offering $500 subsidies and the possibility of free air travel for families that need to go abroad for IVF.

She likes the “home feeling” of her island and hopes to send her children to school there, even if they need to travel to a nearby island to see a pediatrician. But this is not her first home: Ms. Asima was born on an even smaller island, Maavaidhoo, which was abandoned after being swamped by the Indian Ocean tsunami of 2004.

Many Maldivians have been on the move for a generation or more, leaving smaller communities for larger ones. More than anywhere else, those who can afford it go to Malé.

Thirty years ago, it was not unusual for families to send unaccompanied minors on long ferry journeys, of 20 hours or more, to live in Malé. They would stay with distant relatives or even strangers and work as pint-size housekeepers to pay for their room and board as they attended one of the country’s better schools.

Island families still send their children to study in Malé, but usually now they travel as teenagers; better primary schooling is available even in remote places.

The cramped conditions of the capital are the first challenge they face. A compact grid of streets jams pedestrians, motorbikes, workshops and luxury perfumers together like a miniature version of central Hong Kong. One-bedroom apartments rent for five times the starting salary of a government office worker.

Ajuvad, a nervous, soft-spoken 23-year-old, came to Malé at 16 to join his older siblings, six people crammed into three bedrooms. They are all professionals, with jobs as teachers and technicians. But they were raised in another world, a 36-hour ferry ride away. There, the beach was a five-minute walk away with no roads and no motorbikes, and their home was a four-bedroom house that their father, a fisherman, built himself. Their mother made fish paste and sold it to neighbors.

Ajuvad, who asked that his last name be withheld to protect his privacy, remembers the transition as being “quite a challenge.” Having to live without his parents, and without an inch of space to study alone in quiet, he said, “I thought my world had collapsed.”

Ahmed Abbas, a 39-year-old hardware salesman, had an easier time moving into Malé’s urban sprawl from a distant southern island 12 years ago. His family of six shares a two-bedroom apartment in a complex built by Chinese developers, across a sea bridge from the city proper. They spend only half of their income on rent, and he drives to the city, 25 minutes each way, twice a day.

Mr. Abbas studied and worked around South India for many years before settling down. He has seen enough of the world to appreciate his family’s perch, which they share with two love birds: Small, exotic pets are a big business in little Malé.

But he still misses the island life. Back home, it was “nice because the people are nice,” he said, “normal country people, all smiling.”

Alex Travelli is a correspondent for The Times based in New Delhi, covering business and economic matters in India and the rest of South Asia. He previously worked as an editor and correspondent for The Economist. More about Alex Travelli

International

7.4 magnitude quake hits Taiwan, strongest in 25 years

By Nectar Gan , Wayne Chang , Jerome Taylor, Antoinette Radford, Deva Lee and Maureen Chowdhury , CNN

Our live coverage of the Taiwan earthquake has moved here.

Search and rescue efforts continue after 7.4 magnitude earthquake rocks Taiwan. Here's the latest

From CNN staff

Rescue workers stand near the site of a leaning building in the aftermath of an earthquake in Hualien, Taiwan, on April 3.

Rescuers are working to free dozens trapped after a 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck the east coast of Taiwan — causing landslides and collapsed structures.

At least nine people have died , more than 900 others are injured and over 100 buildings have been damaged.

The quake is the strongest to hit Taiwan in 25 years .

Here's what else we know:

The quake: The earthquake hit at 7:58 a.m. local time, 18 kilometers (11 miles) south of the city of Hualien at a depth of 34.8 kilometers, according to the US Geological Survey.
Aftershocks : The quake was followed by 29 aftershocks greater than a magnitude of 4.0 near the epicenter of the earthquake in east Taiwan so far, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Tremors have been felt across the island, including in Taipei. Tremors as high as magnitude 7 are expected in the following days.
Hualien County: The region where the quake struck, Hualien County, has a population of about 300,000, around 100,000 of whom live in the main city of Hualien. But many in the region live in remote coastal or mountain communities that can be hard to reach , so it might take time to understand the extent of Wednesday's quake.
Trapped miners: Taiwan's national fire agency said that 71 people are trapped in two mines in Hualien.
Power cuts : More than 91,000 households were without electricity, according to Taiwan's Central Emergency Command Center.
Medical facilities: Hospitals across Taiwan’s capital , Taipei City, are operating normally despite being damaged by Wednesday’s earthquake, according to the Municipal Government.
US monitoring: The Biden administration is monitoring the earthquake in Taiwan overnight and is prepared to offer assistance, a National Security Council spokesperson said Wednesday.

71 miners trapped in 2 mines in Taiwan after earthquake, national fire agency says

From CNN's Shawn Deng

Taiwan's national fire agency said that 71 people are trapped in two mines in Hualien after a powerful earthquake struck the island.

In the Heping mine, there are 64 people trapped, and seven more are trapped in the Zhonghe mine, the fire agency said in a news conference on Wednesday.

Video shows man swimming in a rooftop pool when massive earthquake hit

When a magnitude of 7.4 earthquake rocked Taiwan on Wednesday, it struck during the morning commute.

Video shows highway roads shaking and even a man being heavily swayed and rocked on a rooftop pool.

Watch the moment here:

Taiwanese semiconductor facilities will resume production overnight following earthquake

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (TSMC), the chipmaking giant, said on Wednesday that its facilities which were impacted by the 7.4 magnitude earthquake are expected to resume production overnight.

TSMC reported that their overall tool recovery is at more than 70% within 10 hours of the earthquake striking the island. Safety systems are also operating normally, TSMC added.

The company noted that a small number of tools were damaged but that there was no damage to its extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV) tools. Work at construction sites will resume after further inspections are complete, TSMC said.

Earlier, a TSMC spokesperson told CNN they had evacuated some manufacturing plants. All personnel are now safe, TSMC said in an update.

Biden administration monitoring Taiwan earthquake, White House says

From CNN's Sam Fossum

The Biden administration is monitoring the earthquake in Taiwan overnight and is prepared to offer assistance, a National Security Council spokesperson said Wednesday.

"We are monitoring reports of the earthquake impacting Taiwan and continue to monitor its potential impact on Japan. The United States stands ready to provide any necessary assistance. All those affected are in our prayers," a statement from National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said.

7 major earthquakes have hit Taiwan over the last 50 years

The 7.4 magnitude earthquake that killed at least nine people and injured hundreds Wednesday, is the strongest to hit Taiwan in 25 years .

Over the last 50 years, the island has experienced a total of seven major earthquakes, the last being a 7.1 magnitude quake in 2006 in Pingtung County in southern Taiwan.

The island sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire , which makes it prone to earthquakes.

See a full list of the earthquakes that have hit Taiwan:

29 aftershocks above 4.0 magnitude have occurred near epicenter since earthquake, US Geological Survey says

From CNN's Sara Tonks

There have been 29 aftershocks greater than a magnitude of 4.0 near the epicenter of the earthquake in east Taiwan so far, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

Of these aftershocks:

One was above 6.0
13 have been at or above 5.0
14 have been above 4.0.

Forecast during recovery efforts: Tonight's forecast in Hualien City, near the epicenter, calls for increasing cloud coverage. Thursday is looking at mostly cloudy skies with afternoon showers and rain Thursday night and Friday during the day.

Rainfall totals should be relatively light for Taiwan, with models calling for under 25 mm (less than 1 inch) by Friday evening local time.

Watch landslide engulf road after 7.4 magnitude earthquake hits Taiwan

A dashcam camera has caught the moment a large landslide came down a mountain in Taiwan, triggered by a 7.4 magnitude earthquake on Wednesday morning.

The quake is the strongest to have rattled the island in 25 years, killing at least nine people and leaving more than 150 trapped.

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18 Least Vegetarian Friendly Countries in Asia

I n this article, we discuss the 18 Least vegetarian friendly countries in Asia. If you want to skip our plant-based protein industry, you can go directly to 5 Least vegetarian friendly countries in Asia .

As more and more folks are turning towards plant-powered living, it's really shaking up the way we eat around the globe. A recent report by Bloomberg Intelligence suggests that plant-based foods are gearing up for a big boom, potentially grabbing about 7.7% of the global protein market by 2030. And get this – that could be worth over a whopping $162 billion . It seems like people are really digging the idea of swapping out traditional animal-based proteins and dairy for plant-based alternatives, especially with all the talk about growing populations and environmental issues.

Many Americans are changing their eating habits, with 30% now opting for plant-based alternatives instead of meat. This shift has led to a culinary shift, especially in urban areas that embrace vegetarian lifestyles. And it's not just individuals changing their diets. Companies are getting in on the action too. Companies like Benson Hill (NYSE: BHIL ), Calavo Growers, Inc (NASDAQ: CVGW ), and Local Bounti Corporation (NYSE: LOCL ) are leading the charge.

Benson Hill (NYSE:BHIL)

Benson Hill (NYSE:BHIL), a food tech company, utilizes its platform CropOS, to develop plant-based proteins like high-protein soy and peas. This reduces the need for energy-intensive processing in meat substitutes.

With a revenue of $404.61 million for the twelve months ending September 30, 2023, growing by 50.13%, Benson Hill remains at the forefront of innovation. In February 2024, the company sold its Iowa soy processing business to White River Soy Processing for $72 million .

Calavo Growers, Inc (NASDAQ:CVGW)

Calavo Growers, Inc. (NASDAQ:CVGW) distributes avocados, prepared avocados, and perishable foods globally. For the twelve months ending January 31, 2024, the company noted a revenue of $873.35 million, despite a -16.80% year-over-year revenue decline.

In early 2024, Calavo Growers initiated talks to sell its pre-prepped fresh-cut fruit and vegetable business to F&S Fresh Foods for approximately $100 million. This move allows Calavo Growers to focus on its core operations, including tomatoes, papayas, and prepared foods like guacamole and salsa.

Local Bounti Corporation (NYSE:LOCL)

Local Bounti Corporation (NYSE:LOCL) is a leading indoor agriculture company based in the United States, specializing in the cultivation and packaging of fresh greens. These include lettuce, herbs, and loose-leaf lettuce. Its customers primarily consist of food retailers and food service distributors.

Recently, on February 13, 2024, Local Bounti announced a significant milestone: the issuance of a patent by the United States Patent and Trademark Office for its Stack & Flow Technology. This innovation integrates vertical and greenhouse growing techniques.

Even with all the buzz about plant-based eating, some countries are still sticking to the old ways. Places like China, Japan, and South Korea, still love their meat. For them, meat isn't just food – it's a symbol of success and status, deeply ingrained in their culture and cooking. Plus, with more money to spend, the demand for meaty dishes just keeps on growing. So, while the plant-based movement is booming in some places, it's still got some persuading to do in others. In this article, we will be discussing some of the Least vegetarian friendly countries in asia .

Methodology

In our comprehensive research for the article " 18 Least vegetarian friendly countries in Asia ," we looked at numerous sources and blogs like SCMP, Yahoo Finance, Insider Monkey, Ease my Trip, Fodor's Travel, Asher Fergusson, Huff Post, Vegan vs Travel, Tatler, Reddit, Exotravel , Dave Does The Travel Thing , and Metador Network to understand the lack of availability and variety of vegetarian options across the continent. Each country's ranking was determined by the frequency of its appearance in our findings. This methodology allowed us to identify and list the nations where vegetarian-friendly cuisine might be limited or less common.

By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a similar consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years ( see the details here ) . Whether you are a beginner investor or professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.

18. Kyrgyzstan

Insider Monkey Score: 2

Kyrgyzstan, nestled in Central Asia, is among the 18 Least vegetarian friendly countries in Asia . Kyrgyz cuisine is all about meat, with dishes like Beshbarmak and Shashlik taking the spotlight. Vegetarian options? They're pretty scarce and usually get overshadowed by all the meaty meals. Even in cities, where you might find some veggie dishes inspired by other cuisines, it's still tough for vegetarians to navigate the dining scene in Kyrgyzstan.

17. Uzbekistan

In Uzbekistan, food is all about their nomadic and farming roots. Meat and dairy are the stars here. Think Plov, Shashlik, and Manti – all packed with meaty goodness. But if you're vegetarian, options can be a bit slim. Sure, you'll find dishes like Achichuk and veggie stews, but they're not as popular as the meaty stuff.

16. Azerbaijan

As many other Caucasian countries, Azerbaijan is big on meat. The people of Azerbaijan love their meat, especially the lamb. So, for vegetarians, it's a bit of a challenge. You will find vegetarian options, but the choices might not be as lavish, as they would be if you were a meat eater.

15. Malaysia

Insider Monkey Score: 3

Malaysia ranks on number fifteen on the list of 18 Least vegetarian friendly countries in Asia . Malaysia, in Southeast Asia, isn't the easiest place for vegetarians. Their food scene is all about meat, with Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences serving up dishes like Nasi Lemak, Char Kway Teow, and Satay. But hey, there's hope! In the cities, you'll find more vegetarian options popping up as people become more aware. They might not be as common as meat dishes, but they're there if you look for them.

14. Cambodia

In Cambodia, the food mostly focuses on meat, especially fish and poultry. Traditional Cambodian dishes like Amok (a curry made with fish or chicken), Lok Lak (stir-fried beef or chicken), and Khmer Red Curry (often made with beef or chicken) really showcase the country's love for meat. It can be quite tough for vegetarians to find options in Cambodia, especially in rural areas where meat dishes are prominent.

Insider Monkey Score: 4

Monaco's culinary scene is all about meat and seafood, with French and Mediterranean influences shining through. You'll find classic dishes like Bouillabaisse and Coq au Vin in fancy restaurants. Vegetarian options might not be as plentiful or prominent, and while some places do offer vegetarian dishes, they can be limited. So, dining out as a plant-based eater in Monaco's fancy restaurants might be challenging.

12. Myanmar

Myanmar's got some seriously tasty food, full of flavours and spices. They're big on meat and fish, especially in dishes like Mohinga, Laphet Thoke, and all sorts of curries. Meat and fish are usually the stars of the show in their traditional cuisine. Myanmar ranks on number twelve on our list of 18 Least vegetarian friendly countries in Asia .

Insider Monkey Score: 5

Laos, has some delicious food, mainly focusing on meat and fish. They have classics like Larb, Laap Khao, and Mok Pa, which are all packed with meat or fish. But if you're vegetarian, it might be a bit tough, especially outside the cities. In places like Vientiane, you can find some veggie options, but they might not be as diverse as the meat centric meals.

10. Hong Kong

Hong Kong's food scene is a blend of Chinese, British, and global flavors. You have classics like dim sum, roast meats, and seafood. But meat and seafood usually take the center stage. So if you're a vegetarian in Hong Kong, it might be a bit of a challenge to get the best options.

9. Mongolia

In Mongolia, food is all about meat and dairy. So for vegetarians, it's a bit tricky, especially outside the cities where meat dishes are all the hype. Even in places like Ulaanbaatar, where vegetarianism is catching on, veggie options can still be hard to come by and not as varied as other non vegetarian options.

8. Thailand

Insider Monkey Score: 6

Thailand's food scene is amazing, with tons of variety, including meat, seafood, and fish. Classics like Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Tom Yum Goong all have meat in them. But vegetarians are in luck too. Thailand has veggie options like vegetable dishes and curries. But, ingredients like fish sauce and shrimp paste can be tricky for strict vegetarians.

7. Indonesia

Insider Monkey Score: 7

Indonesia has influences from all over when it comes to food. There are traditional dishes like Nasi Goreng, Rendang, and Satay, all packed with meat. If you're vegetarian, it can be a bit nerve-wracking, especially in local spots. But places like Bali and Jakarta have more veggie-friendly options, due to international influences and tourism. Still, finding strictly vegetarian dishes can be tough in many parts of the country. And just like Thailand, fish sauce and shrimp paste are important ingredients for many dishes in Indonesia too, which can be a little tricky for vegetarians.

6. Philippines

Insider Monkey Score: 9

Sixth on our list of 18 Least vegetarian friendly countries in Asia is Philippines. The Philippines love their meat and seafood. Traditional dishes like Adobo, Lechon, and Sinigang are all based on meat. In places like Manila and Cebu, though, things are changing. There's more awareness and more veggie options popping up in restaurants and cafes. They're even serving vegetarian versions of Filipino favorites and dishes from around the world to cater to everyone's tastes.

Click to continue reading and find out about 5 Least vegetarian friendly countries in Asia .

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3. India: A Country of Colors, Cultures, and Chaos. Get set for India - a land where every corner buzzes with life and every moment is a new adventure. As one of the must-visit Asian countries, India is a whirlwind of experiences. Start your journey in the bustling streets of Delhi, where ancient history and modernity coexist.The Red Fort and Chandni Chowk market are incredible gateways into ...
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Singapore Travel Guide Blog. 5. Indonesia. Location: Southeast Asia. Save on Google Maps. Even thinking about adventures to be had in over 18,307 islands already makes me want to go aboard the next flight to Indonesia. You can skip "eat" and "pray," and go straight to "love" in Bali.
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Asia is vast and diverse, with varying climates. Generally, the cooler months from November to March are popular for Southeast Asia, while spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal for East Asia. Always check the specific country's climate before planning. 2. Is it safe to travel solo in Asia?
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15 Best Countries to Visit in Asia

15. Maldives

14. Malaysia

13. Cambodia

12. Sri Lanka

10. The Philippines

9. South Korea

5. Indonesia

2. Thailand

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For the History Buff

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Philippines

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Borneo (Malaysia & Indonesia)

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South Korea

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New Zealand

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Tips and Tricks for Traveling in Asia

1. Research the Best Times to Visit

2. Respect Cultural Etiquette

3. Learn Basic Local Phrases

4. Be Cautious with Street Food

5. Embrace Local Transportation

6. Always Negotiate

7. Stay Connected

8. Prioritize Safety

9. Pack Light and Versatile

10. Embrace the Unexpected

11. Stay Hydrated and Protect from the Sun

12. Research Local Scams

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