Asian Vacations
Asian Vacations
Anyone planning on a vacation in the near future to a unique destination should most certainly explore the possibilities of an Asian vacation. The Asian continent and its beautifully diverse culture, landscape, and people are an immense source of attraction to tourists. There are innumerable places of interest in Asia which are becoming increasingly popular among tourists. However, tourists should be aware of a few things regarding transportation, food, and accommodation before embarking on a vacation to any of the Asian destinations.
Firstly, interested tourists must decide on the destination that would be most suitable for them depending on their interests. Some places are great for sightseeing while others are ideal for leisure activities such as surfing, golf, fishing, and so on. If you can't decide on which Asian vacation package to go for, we have a few suggestions for you.
Asia has a lot offer in terms of tourism. Whether you visit the Indian Subcontinent, South East Asia, Central Region, Korean Peninsula or Middle East, you will find the experience exhilarating. You can avail yourself of international standard hotels, generous hospitality, multi-cuisine options, and convenient transportation. You will get the feel of different religions, traditions, languages, and lifestyles when you travel across this huge continent.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan or the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan is famous for its mountainous terrain. The Hindu Kush mountain range divides Afghanistan into three very different geographic regions namely Central Highlands, Northern Plains, and the Southwestern Plateau. The altitude, climate, and soil conditions in Afghanistan vary in different parts of the country. Afghanistan is a landlocked country with Pakistan on the South and East. Iran is on the border to the West with Turkmenistan and Tajikistan in the North. The far northeast borders are shared by China. The name Afghanistan translates to "Land of Afghans."
Armenia
Armenia is one of the oldest Christian civilizations in the world. Armenia, a landlocked country surrounded by Turkey to the west, Georgia to the north, Iran to the south, Azerbaijan to the east, and Azerbaijan's Naxcivan exclave to the southwest. Armenia offers the tourist a wide range of travel experiences. Spectacular sights transition into a variety of landscapes from forests to deserts. Armenian culture is renowned for its hospitality.
Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan is an ancient land rich in natural resources and archeological wonders. The name "Azerbaijan" translates as "land of fires," which is a reference to the old practice of fire worship by the local tribes. Azerbaijan shares borders with Armenia, Georgia, Iran, Russia, and Turkey as well as a Caspian Sea coastline. Azerbaijan is a beautiful country with scintillating scenery, although it remains virtually unknown. There are many captivating sights such as Bronze Age petro glyphs, medieval minarets, and mosques.Azerbaijan is also famous for its beautiful, original, authentic carpets.
Bangladesh
Bangladesh is a small country in South Asia. The country is bordered by India, Myanmar, and the Bay of Bengal. Bangladesh offers plenty of activities like trekking, surfing, golfing, swimming, and hiking for tourists to the country. Forests, historical monuments, archeological sites, and beaches are popular tourist destinations in Bangladesh.
Bhutan
The Kingdom of Bhutan is a landlocked South Asian nation situated between India, Tibet, and the People's Republic of China. "Bhutan" may have been derived from the Sanskrit word "Bhu-Uttan" which means "high land." The climate of the country varies from tropical in the southern plains, to cool winters and hot summers in the central valleys. Severe winters and cool summers are experienced in the Himalayas. Bhutan is one of the most isolated nations in the world. Foreign Influences and tourism are heavily regulated by the government in order to preserve the traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Brunei
Brunei Darussalam or the State of Brunei is located on the north coast of the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia and shares a common border with the Malaysian state of Sarawak. This tiny country is blessed with some of the largest oil fields in Southeast Asia. It is a charming country with enough attractions for visiting tourists. The capital of Bandar Seri Begawan with its soaring mosques and beautiful water villages, the fine Ulu Temburong National Park are some the famous attractions in Brunei. One of the highlights of Brunei is the thrilling boat ride between the capital city of Bander Seri Begawan and Bangar.
Cambodia
Cambodia is located in the heart of Indo-China peninsular. It is bounded on the west by Thailand, on the north by Thailand and Laos, and on the east by Vietnam. The name Cambodia is derived from the word "Kambuja" which means the "sons of Kambu." The ancient architecture and its legacy along with the enchanting Cambodian countryside offer a host of exciting experiences. Angkor Wat, the ancient capital city of Cambodia, is one of the man-made wonders of the world. The temple complex at Angkor is a monumental temple compound of behemoth block temples, towering spires, giant carved faces, and ornate bas reliefs.
China
China, or the People's Republic of China, is situated in eastern Asia and bounded by the Pacific Ocean in the east. With a landmass of nearly four million square miles, this densely populated country is considered as the cultural heart of Asia. China has many tourist attractions thanks to its vast territory, beautiful landscapes, long history, and splendid culture. The long history and brilliant culture of China can be retraced in the ancient ruins and relics. China has also long been known for its beautiful landscapes. China's ports and coastal areas are dream destinations for vacationers.
India
India is the 7th largest country in the world and is situated in South Asia. The history and culture of India is ancient and diverse, traveling back to the beginning of human civilization. From north to south and east to west, this country offers a multitude of historical places and ruins that tell the story of eras and empires long gone. Diverse landscapes, colorful people, exotic cuisine, you can find it all. You can escape to beautiful mountain retreats and idyllic beach resorts or visit historic monuments and cultural centers.
Indonesia
Indonesia is a huge archipelagic country located in the Southeast of Asia It has around 13,000 islands along the equator between Asia and Australia. The larger islands have central mountains and fertile plains and lowlands. The climate is tropical, and October to April is the rainy season. It's a diverse nation with a lot of resources. From volcanic lakes to deep gorges and from surfing to hiking, Indonesia has something for every tourist. Indonesian art includes ancient stone sculptures and batik printing.
Japan
The island of Japan forms an arc in the Pacific Ocean to the east of the Asian continent.The country comprises of four large islands namely Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku together with many smaller islands.The Pacific Ocean lies to the east while the Sea of Japan and the East China Sea separate Japan from the Asian continent. A country of surprises, Japan has a little something for everyone. Most of the national parks have routes for hiking, cycling is popular in the less hilly regions of Japan and golf is another sport that you can indulge in. Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is an energetic city where sightseeing is available around every corner.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan or the Republic of Kazakhstan lies in the north of the central Asian republics and is bounded by Russia in the north, China in the east, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan in the south, and the Caspian Sea and part of Turkmenistan in the west. The landscape of Kazakhstan is diverse. The northern forest-steppe turns into steppe, half-deserts and deserts in the South. You can visit a range of spas that offer different types of treatment. South Kazakhstan has many monuments, which reflect Central Asian history and culture. You can visit Almaty, a city of modern architecture, wide streets, cool fountains, parks, and squares.
North Korea
North Korea, located in East Asia, is bordered by China, Russia, and South Korea. The country enjoys a temperate climate with long winters and short summers. Mount Paekdu is a popular tourist destination especially for adventure lovers. The Tower of Juche Idea, Kumsusan's Memorial Palace, and Moran Hill are places of interest in the nation.
South Korea
Known as the "land of morning calm," South Korea is a small nation located in East Asia. Nature enthusiasts can visit the national parks in Bukhasan, Byeonsanbando, Chiaksan, Deogyusan, and Gyeryongsan. The best time to visit this country would be between September and November. Places of interest in the country include Nami Island, Korean Palace, Daecheon Beach, Danyang Caves, Aiins World Park, and Icheon.
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked republic in the eastern part of Central Asia. Bishkek is the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. The word "Kyrgyz," after which the country is named, is thought to originally mean either "forty girls" or "forty tribes," presumably referring to the epic hero Manas. Legend has it that he unified 40 tribes against the Mongols. According to popular interpretations, the 40-ray sun on the flag of Kyrgyzstan symbolizes the forty tribes of Manas. The country abounds in deep gorges, beautiful valleys, and virgin forests. Nature lovers will adore this place. You can visit Lake Song-Köl, which is an ideal location for camping or go trekking or horse riding on the Pamir Alay range in the Alay Valley or the Central Tian Shan.
Laos
Known as the "Land of Million Elephants," Laos is a land locked country in Southeast Asia. Nam Ha Npa, Phonsavan, Luang Prabang, and Phu Khao Khuay Npa are some of the popular tourist destinations in the country. You can also visit Vat Sisaket, the oldest temple in Vientiane, which features nearly 6,840 Buddha images.
Malaysia
Malaysia is located in Southeastern Asia and consists of two noncontiguous areas: Peninsular Malaysia on the Asian mainland, and the states of Sarawak and Sabah, known together as East Malaysia on the island of Borneo. It is bordered on the North by Thailand, on the East by the South China Sea, on the South by the Strait of Johore, and on the West by the Strait of Malacca and the Andaman Sea. The Malaysia sights, the people, and the cuisine are more than enough to make the trip memorable. However, Malaysia also offers some very special activities. Among other interesting tourist places, the Malaysian rain forest is unique in the world, the oldest on the planet.
Maldives
The Maldives are an archipelago of 1,190 coral islands grouped into 26 coral atolls in the Indian Ocean. They lie south-southwest of India and are considered part of Southern Asia. The past two decades have seen the islands develop into a popular long-haul destination. The country's 26 natural atolls offer nautical delights from night-fishing trips, windsurfing, and scuba-diving. Many islands have enormous lagoons, where bright blue-green water laps gently on brilliant white sand beaches.
Mongolia
Mongolia is located in East and Central Asia. The country has a varied landscape with mountains, plateaus, and deserts. Buddhist Temples, abundant wildlife, and mountains are top attractions in the country. If you are an adventure lover, then you can surely visit Darkhad Depression where you can go trekking in the prairie grasslands.
Myanmar
Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is a country in Southeast Asia. It lies on the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea coast with Bangladesh and India to the west, China to the north, and Laos and Thailand to the east. Myanmar history dates back to the early 11th century when King Anawrahta unified the country and founded the First Myanmar Empire in Bagan more than 20 years before the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. During World War II, Myanmar was occupied by the Japanese from 1942 till the return of the Allied Forces in 1945. Myanmar has become a sovereign independent state since 4th January 1948 after more than 100 years under the colonial administration. Myanmar remains a world apart and there are so many experiences awaiting in Myanmar that one trip is simply never enough. It is a country that rejuvenates your spirit, enlivens your senses, and energizes your soul.
Nepal
Nepal is a landlocked country, surrounded by India on three sides and by China's Xizang Autonomous Region (Tibet) to the north. Geographically, sandwiched between two Asian giants namely China and India, Nepal traditionally has been characterized as "a yam caught between two rocks." Nepal, a remote yet popular destination has plenty to offer the traveler, from splendid mountain scenery to beautiful monasteries. It is considered as one of the most alluring countries in the world.
Pakistan
Officially known as the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, this south Asian country is bordered by India and China. You can visit the ruins of ancient civilizations like Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro, and Taxila. Other places of interest in the country include Karakorum Pass, Takht-I-Bhai, Taxila Museum, Jandial Temple, and Dhamarajika Stupa.
Philippines
The Philippines is an island country located in Southeast Asia. The best time to visit this country would be between December and May. The greatest tourist attractions in Philippines are the beaches. The country offers plenty of activities like swimming, surfing, and diving for its visitors.
Singapore
Singapore, the smallest country in Asia, is located in the southern tip of Malay Peninsula. The languages spoken in this city-state include Malay, Tamil, Chinese, and English. Some of the popular activities in the country are kayaking, sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and water skiing.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an island in southern Asia, situated in the Indian Ocean, southeast of India. Sri Lanka was formerly called Ceylon, and it was ruled by Britain from 1798 to 1948. Besides the traditional tea, gems, spices, and cultural artifacts, tourists can buy some of the most attractively priced garments and crisp linen in Sri Lanka.
Taiwan
Taiwan, also known as Formosa, is an island group located in East Asia between the South China Sea and the East China Sea off the southeastern coast of the Chinese mainland. The word Formosa translates to "beautiful island." The lush mountains of Wulai, effervescent cities like Taipei, the stunning basalt cliffs of Penghu, excellent hiking in Taroko Gorge, and some of the world's best hot springs makes Taiwan one of the most enchantingly diverse destinations in Asia.
Tajikistan
Tajikistan is a mountainous landlocked country in Central Asia. Afghanistan borders to the South, Uzbekistan to the West, Kyrgyzstan to the North, and People's Republic of China to the East. Tajikistan also lies adjacent to Pakistan but is separated by the narrow Wakhan Corridor. With its roots in ancient Sogdiana and Bactria, the modern country brings together different clans, languages, and identities. The Pamirs, which means the "Roof of the World," are easily the country's highlight offering breathtaking high-altitude scenery. The Wakhan Valley is a reverie while Dushanbe is considered one of Central Asia's prettiest capitals.
Thailand
Thailand, situated in Southeast Asia, is often called as golden land. The well known cities in the country are Bangkok and Phuket. When you visit this country, you can visit the Sukhothai Historical Park, Kanchanaburi, Samui Islands, the National Museum, and Wat Chalong.
Timor-Leste
East Timor also known as Timor-Leste is a country in Southeast Asia. It comprises the eastern half of the island of Timor, the nearby islands of Atauro and Jaco, and Oecussi-Ambeno, an exclave on the northwestern side of the island, within Indonesian West Timor. The small country is located in the northwest of Darwin, Australia. Dili is the capital city of this country. The main attraction is the numerous beautiful beaches, the most popular being Areia Branca in Dili.
Turkey
Turkey is a Eurasian country that stretches across the Anatolian peninsula in western Asia and Thrace in the Balkan region of Southeastern Europe. Turkey is bordered by eight countries: Bulgaria to the Northwest; Greece to the West; Georgia to the Northeast; Armenia, Azerbaijan and Iran to the East; and Iraq and Syria to the Southeast. The Mediterranean Sea and Cyprus are to the South; the Aegean Sea and Archipelago are to the West; and the Black Sea is to the North. The visiting tourist can enjoy several activities such as golf, rafting, mountaineering, and skiing apart from other city attractions and places of interest.
Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan is a Turkic country in Central Asia. It is bordered by Afghanistan to the Southeast, Iran to the Southwest, Uzbekistan to the Northeast, Kazakhstan to the Northwest, and the Caspian Sea to the West. The name Turkmenistan means "land of the Turkmen" in Persian. The name of its capital, Ashgabat, means the "City of Arsaces" in Persian. It also translates as "the city of love." The highlight of this country is the Turkmens' nomadic culture which still survives today. Traditional garb, intricately designed rugs, and a strong tribal loyalty provide travelers with a fascinating experience barring the extreme hot weather of course.
Uzbekistan
Officially known as the Republic of Uzbekistan, this country is situated in Central Asia. Adventure enthusiasts can surely try mountain climbing and trekking in the mountains. Samarkand, Khiva, and Bukhara are some of the popular tourist destinations in the country.
Vietnam
Vietnam is the Eastern most country on the Indochina Peninsula in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by China to the North, Laos to the Northwest, Cambodia to the Southwest, and the South China Sea to the East. With soaring mountain peaks like Hoang Lien, with beaches like Quy Nhon and Nha Trang, Vietnam is stunningly beautiful. If you are a culinary adventurer, then Vietnam with its exotic cuisine with a treasure trove of pungent herbs and secret spices is just the place for your palate.
