Top Destinations To Visit Asia
Asia is a mix of bustling cities, ancient temples, and natural wonders. Here are some of the most popular destinations and a few tips for what to do while visiting. These top destinations in Asia can be more affordable than you think. Whether you’re interested in shopping and nightlife, immersing yourself in culture, or admiring nature, there’s a top destination in Asia for you!
Shanghai
It’s a modern-day commercial mecca. Shanghai celebrates its prosperity with monuments of industry like the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. If you can embrace the unexpected, the radically new and the immense crowds, you’re ready to tackle China’s most dynamic metropolis. Shanghai has wonders like the Jade Buddha Temple, Qibao Ancient Town with its thousand-year-old history, and the 400-year old Yu Yuan Gardens with its famous jade sculptures. Check out modern marvels, too, like the futuristic Oriental Pearl TV Tower and its magnificent views.
There are numerous ways to plan your own adventure in Shanghai. So what are you waiting for?
Bejing
At the heart of Beijing lies the Forbidden City, a gigantic palace compound that was the home of Ming and Qing Dynasty emperors; its Palace Museum is filled with gorgeous displays of Chinese art. Beijing also boasts well-preserved architectural jewels like the towering Pagoda of Tianning Temple, built from 1100 to 1120, and the Pagoda of Cishou Temple, built during the Ming dynasty in the 16th century.
Browse Asia vacations here or call a travel team agent at 1-800-788-0829 to plan your own vacation!
Hong Kong
This territory, made of multiple islands, returned to China’s possession in 1997 after more than a hundred years of British occupation. Upon its reunification with China, Hong Kong added certain stipulations that provide a unique degree of autonomy. For instance, the official currency remains the Hong Kong dollar (HKD); English and Chinese are the official languages; and the tiny nation has an independent judiciary system. In short, China and Hong Kong observe a “one country, two systems” policy that can have many foreigners scratching their heads. But don’t question it. Just accept it and enjoy everything this territory has to offer.
Hong Kong distinguishes itself from its Chinese brethren like Shanghai and Beijing with its vibrant, multifaceted culture and stunning cityscape. This British-Chinese hybrid astounds visitors with its striking juxtaposition of dense skyscrapers and lush landscapes. From sandy beaches to rugby pitches, there’s more fresh air than most travelers suspect. And, of course, as a world-class metropolis, Hong Kong boasts numerous urban diversions, such as culinary hot spots and museums.
Tokyo
Tokyo offers everything from ancient temples to glitzy modern nightlife. Experience a traditional sumo wrestling match, visit the ancient Senso-Ji Temple, and check out Minato Mirai 21 with its modern hotels, museums, boutiques, and cafes. It even has an amusement park!
Japan’s mega city is constantly buzzing with movement – feet clacking down sidewalks, cars zooming along streets, subway trains humming below ground, ships cruising in and out. And yet bright lights and loud signs beg you to pause, at the altar of consumerism. This is a city that feeds on motion and progress. But when you want to stop in Tokyo, the city will certainly make it worth your while.
Browse Asia vacations here or call a travel team agent at 1-800-788-0829 to plan your own vacation!
Bangkok
Bangkok is one of the most popular destinations in Asia to visit. Ancient temples and modern shopping malls make up Thailand’s capital, and Buddhist monks and regulars of Patpong (Bangkok’s red light district) share the city’s streets. This contrast can result in an exhilarating and chaotic setting.
Bangkok’s environment requires a lot of energy. Hot weather and persistent crowds can take their toll on unprepared visitors. The city has everything from humidity to humanity, but it’s this exotic overabundance that charms travelers. Here, you’ll find the world’s largest open-air market, a world-class aquarium housed in an eight-level shopping mall, a 150-foot golden Buddha statue and so much more. It’s a city of vast surprises, so savor its delightful incongruity.
Phuket
Phuket is located to the South West. Surrounded by the Andaman Sea and about an hour by plane from Bangkok, this island is a little piece of paradise, which comes with a relatively low price tag for everything from its accommodations to spa treatments and boat tours. Along with its tropical appeal, Phuket beckons to travelers wanting to experience its flavorful cuisine (think: lemongrass, lime leaves, chillies) and its rich culture, heavily influenced by its reigning religion: Buddhism.
Bali
Shangri-La, Elysium, Arcadia, Utopia and Bali are all synonymous with “heaven.” The only difference between them is that you can actually visit Bali. The word “Bali” conjures daydreams of the most fantastic landscape: towering volcanoes, sandy shores that fade into turquoise waters and curving coastlines crowned with staggered pagodas. Bali rarely disappoints.
So many types of visitors revel in this paradise. The ordinary traveler simply stays at the palatial oceanfront resort and indulges in luxurious spa treatments, decadent cuisine and lazy sunbathing. But the historian will find his or her delights at the island’s many temples while the adventurer will discover new paths up an active volcano. Bali is a dream come true, so wake up and book your ticket.
Browse Asia vacations here or call a travel team agent at 1-800-788-0829 to plan your own vacation!
Manila
The capital of the Philippines is a city of blended history thanks to its Spanish, American, and Chinese influences. Visit the walled area of Manila called Intramuros to see the beautiful San Agustin Church and historic Fort Santiago. Another attraction is Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world; tourists are welcomed by horse-drawn carriages that take them to Binondo’s popular dining and shopping spots.
Hanoi
From Art to food, history and spas, there are many reasons to visit Hanoi. See ancient architecture, take a taxi thru the city, ride on the back of a taxi bike as you see the wonders of this capital city. Take in the French influence, visit museums, eat wonderful street food and more. Try tea, iced coffee and rice wine. Enjoy a spa treatment, there is so much to see and do in Hanoi..Just skip visiting in summer, when the climate is at its most humid.
Ready to plan your dream vacation?
Contact a Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829
Don’t forget to check out our website and Like us on Facebook for the latest travel deals, news & tips!
