Get To Know: Asia

Asia Highlights

Exotic Cuisine

If your only experience of Asian cuisine is the stir-fries served up in Asian-style take-out places in the West, you’re in for a treat. Asian cuisine has many cross-cultural influences, and although tasty and fragrant, is also for the most part quite healthy. 

Aerial view of the largest bamboo forest in the world, Shunan Bamboo Sea National Park in China. (photo via hejuan / iStock / Getty Images Plus) (Photo Credit: (photo via hejuan / iStock / Getty Images Plus))

Stunning Landscapes

Some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes are found in Asia. From the Zen gardens of Japan to the stepped rice paddies of China. The soaring peaks of the Himalayas to the valleys of Nepal. You’ll discover scenes of natural beauty everywhere you go. 

Unique Wildlife

Asian wildlife includes many unique and distinctive animals, such as the tanuki, the pangolin, the golden snub-nosed monkey, and the proboscis monkey. The panda, an indigenous Asian bear, was brought back from the brink of extinction by the concerted efforts of Asian conservationists. 

History & Culture

Some of the world’s most influential religious and ideological movements were born here. Their presence can still be felt when you walk its streets and roam its valleys. Great architectural marvels, giant feats of engineering, and soaring skyscrapers contrast with ancient temples and giant Buddha statues.

Top Places To Visit In Asia

China

The awe-inspiring marvel that is the Great Wall of China, built over hundreds of years during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), still stands today. While some sections have fallen into ruin, enough remains as a testament to this culture’s awesome heritage.

Hong Kong

The breathtaking views from Victoria Peak, Hong Kong’s highest point, are out of this world. Look down through telescopes from the viewing deck and see Victoria Harbour, Lamma Island, and Central Hong Kong from a whole new perspective.

Japan

Kyoto is not only home to various ancient Buddhist temples, palaces, and Shinto shrines but also historically significant cultural craft centers and exotic teahouses. You’ll find almost everything Japan is most famous for, in this city, including its famous cherry blossoms.

Singapore

The stunning Gardens by the Bay in Singapore is an innovative concept of sustainability and iconic architecture, perfectly blended into the natural environment. Discover wetlands, flora, and fauna in a beautiful outdoor gallery. Themed exhibitions vary throughout the year.

Thailand

A few hours' drive from bustling Bangkok, the jungles of Khao Yai National Park are home to macaque monkeys, gibbons, civets and so many more animal species. We think its forests and waterfalls are the perfect settings for a challenging and rewarding hike.

Vietnam

Fascinating Ha Long Bay is the go-to spot for a sightseeing tour of Vietnam. Explore the region in a seaplane or take a cruise and visit the impressive limestone caves. Some of these caves were formed up to 70,000 years ago!

South Korea

South Korea’s beautiful Jeju Island boasts a volcanic Hallasan with the world’s longest lava tube!  You’ll also find a semi-tropical forested national park and spectacular waterfalls along the coastline. We quickly realized why this is the most popular summer holiday destination for Asians and tourists from far and wide.

India

The magnificent Taj Mahal is more than just an ivory-white marble mausoleum in the city of Agra. It is a symbol of love, commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 1600s  in memory of his beloved wife. This is still the most iconic structure in all of India, and one of the world landmarks most travelers long to see.

Philippines

Banaue’s rice terraces are not only the world’s oldest rice terraces but also a beautiful natural sight, best seen from the air. It’s no surprise that this is considered by some to be the eighth ‘wonder of the world’.