travel destination in asia

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.

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Runners-Up for Best Places to Visit in Asia: The number of places to visit in Thailand is almost too extensive to list, but Koh Samui and Chiang Mai are two standouts. To see some of the most incredibly scenery in China, head to Guilin and Yanghuo for a cruise down the Li River and drift along beneath the limestone mountains lining the river's edge. Or simply relax at a lodge in Yangshuo.

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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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Discover the World

15 Best Countries to Visit in Asia

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on October 2, 2023

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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20 Best Places in Asia you Must Visit

So you’re planning a trip to Asia? How exciting! I still get butterflies whenever I think about my adventures throughout the continent. It has more life, vibrance and chaos than any other region in my eyes. From the kind hearts of Thailand to the island way of life in Bali, these are the best places in Asia you must visit.

Whether you’re soul searching or just looking for a place to unwind and ditch reality, Bali is a spiritual oasis. Bali is the kind of place you don’t just visit once. I have been a handful of times thanks to Bali’s proximity to Australia. You can read our full guide to Bali here .

Kyoto was once the capital of Japan and as such has a great amount of history and culture to discover. You’ll need at least a few days to discover all this city has to offer. From the Bamboo Forrest to the famous Fushimi Inari shrine which features a seemingly endless line of torii gates.

The capital of Japan, Tokyo , has built a name for itself as one of the quirkiest capital cities in the world. From cat cafes to robot dance parties, there really isn’t anything that hasn’t been thought of. What’s more, the crazier the idea, the more popular it becomes!

There is no other city in Asia that blends the East and West quite as seamlessly as Hong Kong. You will only need 48 hours in Hong Kong to get a taste of what the city has to offer. More time is of course recommended, but I have still had a fun time in fleeting visits.

First time visitors could easily pass a week in this vibrant city. Indeed, the first time I visited Hong Kong I stayed for nine days. There are endless Buddhist temples to explore, Mongkok’s famous street markets, Hong Kong’s island impeccable views from the Peak! And you can even add a short day trip to China (Shenzhen) for some retail therapy.

Phuket, Thailand

The mountainous island of Phuket has quickly become one of Asia’s most sought after travel destinations and for good reason. Crystal blue waters, epic day hikes and incredible Thai cuisine make Phuket a dream destination for many. Phuket is full of luxury villas with epic views over the Andaman sea. All of them are within arms reach of the beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife of Phuket.

This once sleepy resort town in Cambodia became a tourist hot spot with thanks to the Tomb Raider film. You may remember the scene where Lara Croft runs through these very temples. Angkor Wat is the most famous of the temples, however there are a handful to explore. You can easily spend a day wandering through all of them.

I still think the Maldives is the most romantic destination I have been in my life. It is everything you would expect and more. With crystal clear waters and some of the best snorkelling I have seen the world over! There are endless hotels to choose from and many of them are floating on private islands.

In recent years Bhutan has been building a name for itself as one of the world’s bucket list destinations and one look at this epic scenery will leave little to the imagination as to why this is a photographer’s dream destination. This is one of the few remaining countries with no Western influence (i.e. no McDonalds or Starbucks) and is known as the last of the Himalayan Buddhist kingdoms.

One of Asia’s most popular small towns that has somehow managed to retain its culture and charm despite the influx of tourism, Hoi An is hands down one of the prettiest destinations in Asia to visit.

Situated in the North of Thailand, Chiang Mai has become a traveller’s favourite destination for visitors to Thailand. Known for its incredible cultural sights and thriving coffee shop scene, Chiang Mai has become a quick favourite for young travellers backpacking Asia looking for a cultural experience beyond the beautiful beaches of Phuket or Koh Samui.

Tourism in Sri Lanka is undergoing a major revival as travellers make their way to the small island country to experience what has been dubbed “India lite”. Here you can enjoy an Asian safari, board a train to the beautiful tea plantations in Kandy or spend your days on a beach learning to surf at one of the many recently emerged surf and yoga schools.

The capital of South Korea, Seoul has become a hot spot for young travellers looking to experience a thriving city of skyscrapers, subways, K-pop culture and incredible food.

Dubai has become on of Asia’s most popular stopover cities for travellers heading across the globe from one side to the other, thanks to its unique location in the centre of travel paths. The city itself is a thriving metropolis but a short drive out of the city you will find tranquility in the sand dunes.

Renowned for its authenticity, mountainous terrain and friendly locals, Laos has quickly become a must visit destination on traveller’s itineraries throughout Southeast Asia. The location of Laos makes it a great combination to visit with neighbouring Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam.

Pangkor Laut, Malaysia

If you’re looking for an Asian honeymoon destination that is a little more budget friendly (over say the Maldives), then look no further than the idyllic Pangkor Laut in Malaysia. Here you can score an overwater bungalow for a fraction of the price you would pay in the Maldives or where the phenomenon began in Bora Bora, Tahiti.

India is a dream destination for many and if you were to travel all that way, you absolutely could not visit without stepping foot in Jaipur and marvelling at the incredible architecture.

Another must visit on any traveller’s India itinerary would be to visit the Taj Mahal in Agra – an ivory-white mausoleum commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, to house the tomb of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

Known most famously for the mesmerising Grand Mosque , Abu Dhabi is another of Asia’s most popular stopover cities. Located on the Persian Gulf, the city is also a popular spot for expats, making it a lively city to explore over a few days and nights.

Boracay, Philippines

If white sandy beaches and endless shades of blue are what you have in mind for your romantic getaway then look no further than Boracay in the Philippines. This area is renowned for its resorts and water activities, making it one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Southeast Asia.

Ha Long Bay, Hanoi

Known for its limestone islands topped by wild rainforests, Ha Long Bay is a must visit in Asia for those seeking the surreal. The area is populated by many junk boats each day touring around the epic scenery, but if you want something a little more adventurous you can also consider a kayak tour, rock climbing or hiking in the area.

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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What to do in taipei for your …, checking in to the lalu sun moon …, how to visit jiufen from taipei (day ….

I live in Asia and have not been to most of these places! Thank you for sharing these fantastic places we can visit. I will save it for future!

I only went to seven of the places listed above. I hope to visit more places in the near future.

Hunza valley is worth visiting as well.

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50 Places to See in Asia When It's Safe to Travel

See recent posts by Margot Bigg

With its vibrant big cities, abundant historic and cultural attractions, and diverse natural landscapes, Asia offers more to see and do than most travelers can experience in an entire lifetime. We tried to narrow things down, and pulled together a list of the 50 best places to visit in Asia before you die.

Note that we’ve chosen these destinations and attractions for their cultural significance, beauty, and fun, one-of-a-kind activities. However, be aware that a few are located in regions or countries that are currently the subject of boycotts or ethical concerns. It’s always wise to research each destination, its safety, and potential human rights issues before booking travel.

1. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Thailand’s second-largest city and its de facto cultural capital, Chiang Mai offers beautiful old temples, great street food, and arguably the country’s best night market. While you can easily spend your day hopping from temple to temple, it’s equally easy to just slow down and relax in this northern city.

Our Top Pick for a Chiang Mai Hotel: The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai

Pricing for The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai

2. Bali, Indonesia

With its emerald-hued rice paddies, thick tropical jungles, and Instagram-worthy architecture, Bali has a reputation as a mystical island paradise. While it’s easy to spend most of your time just gawking at the beauty all around, there’s also plenty to do here, particularly if you’re a fan of surfing, rafting, yoga, or daily massages.

Our Top Pick for a Bali Hotel: Samabe Bali Suites & Villas

Pricing for Samabe Bali Suites & Villas

3. Andaman Islands, India

Although the Andaman Islands are part of India, they’re physically closer to Thailand, with the landscapes to show for it. Here, you’ll find lots of powdery white sand and crystalline waters. While most of the archipelago is off-limits to visitors, beautiful Havelock is open to travelers looking for a peaceful eco-tourism experience.

4. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo has a reverence for tradition alongside its high-tech modernity, so you’re as likely to stumble upon an ancient shrine as a futuristic skyscraper during a visit. The Japanese capital also offers some of the best shopping around, plus you’ll never be far from a tasty ramen shop or sushi restaurant.

Our Top Pick for a Tokyo Hotel: Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills

Pricing for Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills

5. Luang Prabang, Laos

With its mix of gorgeous old temples and traditional and Gallic architecture, Luang Prabang has long been heralded as Laos’ cultural capital. Get up at sunrise and you’re sure to see hundreds of local monks wandering through the city streets, collecting alms from the devout.

Our Top Pick for a Luang Prabang Hotel: Sofitel Luang Prabang Hotel

Pricing for Sofitel Luang Prabang Hotel

6. Angkor Wat, Siem Reap

Cambodia’s most famous attraction, the incredibly preserved Angkor Archaeological Park offers a glimpse into life under the Khmer Empire. The best-known temple here, Angkor Wat, is the largest religious monument on earth.

Our Top Pick for a Siem Reap Hotel: Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor

Pricing for Belmond La Résidence d'Angkor

7. Kandy, Sri Lanka

In the heart of Sri Lanka’s Central Province, Kandy is best-known for the Temple of the Tooth Relic. The UNESCO World Heritage site got its name because it houses a tooth collected from the funeral pyre of Gautama Buddha. While the temple and its adjacent Royal Palace are reason enough to visit Kandy, there’s also plenty to do in the surrounding area, like hiking, visiting tea plantations, and hitting up spice farms.

Our Top Pick for a Kandy Hotel: Kandy Samadhi Centre

Pricing for Kandy Samadhi Centre

8. Maldives

Spread across the Indian Ocean, the Maldives archipelago is known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and abundance of gorgeous resorts , most of which have romantic overwater bungalows. In addition to swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, visitors can enjoy plenty of educational experiences (many resorts offer marine biology lectures) and rides on traditional Maldivian dhoni boats.

Our Top Pick for a Maldives Hotel: Constance Moofushi

Pricing for Constance Moofushi

9. Railay Beach, Thailand

With its white-sand beaches and imposing limestone cliffs, Railay Beach near Krabi is one of the most photogenic parts of Thailand — and that’s saying a lot. It’s also a popular rock-climbing destination, with ample routes for beginner and experienced climbers alike.

Our Top Pick for a Railay Beach Hotel: Railay Village Resort

Pricing for Railay Village Resort

10. Rishikesh, India

Touted as the yoga capital of the world, Rishikesh is the ultimate place to find your zen. This holy town is home to dozens of ashrams, many of which offer residential programs. It also hosts an international yoga festival every year. Even if asanas aren’t your thing, Rishikesh is still worth hitting up for the chance to go on a rafting excursion along the Ganges River, which runs right through town.

Our Top Pick for a Rishikesh Hotel: GANGA KINARE by Holywater Hotels

Pricing for GANGA KINARE by Holywater Hotels

11. Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur

Although Kuala Lumpur ‘s landmark towers are no longer the tallest buildings in the world (a title they held for a brief stint around the turn of this century), they’re still the largest twin towers. Head up to the observation deck in Tower 2 to take in fantastic city views.

Our Top Pick for a Kuala Lumpur Hotel: The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Pricing for The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur

12. Great Wall of China

Although the Great Wall of China refers to a series of different walls that collectively span thousands of miles, this ancient fortification is nevertheless one of the most important attractions in the country. Three of the more touristy sections can be found within day tripping distance of Beijing . Visit the Mutianyu section, if you want to take a toboggan ride from the wall down to the parking lot below it.

Our Top Pick for a Beijing Hotel: Fairmont Beijing

Pricing for Fairmont Beijing

13. Taj Mahal, India

India’s most iconic attraction, the Taj Mahal was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife, Mumtaz. Come early in the morning to see the marble structure perfectly mirrored in the long reflecting pools that stretch out before it. Or, plan a trip during the days around the full moon when you can arrange a visit to the Taj at night.

Our Top Pick for an Agra Hotel: ITC Mughal, Agra — a Luxury Collection Hotel

Pricing for ITC Mughal, Agra- a Luxury Collection Hotel

14. Ko Lipe, Thailand

If you’re looking for a quiet, laid-back alternative to some of Thailand’s more popular (read: crowded) island destinations , this walkable Andaman Sea islet might just be your ticket to paradise. The shallow waters and white sand make it ideal for families. Plus, it’s just a quick longboat ride away from the nearby Tarutao National Marine Park, where you’ll find some fantastic snorkeling opportunities.

Our Top Pick for a Ko Lipe Hotel: Serendipity Beach Resort

Pricing for Serendipity Beach Resort

15. Huanglong, China

Officially known as the Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area, this gorgeous section of the Minshan Mountains is known for its forested landscapes interspersed with colorful ponds and lakes and beautiful waterfalls. This area is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including giant pandas.

16. Goa, India

India’s tiniest state, Goa has long been known as a party hot spot, famous for its all-night psychedelic trance parties and a bohemian culture that’s heavily influenced by 1960s culture. While all that’s certainly true, this seaside destination is also worth visiting for its beautiful old Portuguese churches and miles of palm-dotted beaches.

Our Top Pick for a Goa Hotel: The Leela Goa

Pricing for The Leela Goa

17. Petra, Jordan

Jordan’s most famous attraction, this ancient archeological site is known for its rock-cut structures that date back to the Nabatean era. It’s worth giving yourself a couple of days to explore this massive complex of temples, tombs, and civic buildings. For a particularly enchanting experience, candlelit visits to the Treasury — at the entrance of the site — are run on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

18. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China

The inspiration for the conical landscapes found in the animated film “Avatar” came from Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in the Hunan Province. This park is known for its pillar formations that were created over millennia of erosion. It’s also home to the tallest outdoor elevator on earth, which holds three glassed-in elevator cars that take visitors up approximately 326 meters (or 1,070 feet).

19. Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan’s city of Bukhara has been inhabited for over 5,000 years, resulting in a wealth of historic attractions, many of which are beautifully preserved. Don’t miss the Po-i-Kalyan complex, considered among the finest examples of Islamic architecture on earth.

20. Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, Iran

Dating back to the late 1800s, the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque in Shiraz certainly isn’t the oldest attraction in Iran , but it’s one of the prettiest. Sometimes referred to as the Pink Mosque, this structure is celebrated for its beautiful colored glass that shoots multicolored hues of light through its intricately embellished interiors.

21. Bethlehem, West Bank

As the birthplace of Jesus Christ, Bethlehem attracts religious pilgrims from around the world, who come to worship at the Church of the Nativity and the Milk Grotto. It’s also a hit with Banksy fans, who visit to see the elusive artist’s Walled Off Hotel, named for its position facing the border wall with Israel.

22. Halong Bay, Vietnam

This UNESCO World Heritage site lures visitors with its limestone karsts and caves, tropical islands, dense mangroves, and aquamarine waters. Most travelers visit Halong Bay by boat, often hopping on overnight cruises that take them deep into the bay.

23. Prambanan Temple, Yogyakarta

Although Bali is Indonesia’s only practicing Hindu island, the granddaddy of all temples, Prambanan, is actually on Java , just outside Yogyakarta . This complex dedicated to Shiva is home to hundreds of beautifully preserved stoned temples, some dating back as far as the eighth century.

24. Dead Sea, Jordan, West Bank, and Israel

Approximately 430 meters (or 1,410 feet) below sea level, the Dead Sea is located at the earth’s lowest point on land. It’s also one of the saltiest bodies of water on the planet, making it a great place for a relaxing buoyant float. Fun fact: Despite its name, the Dead Sea is technically a lake — its water sourced entirely from the River Jordan.

Our Top Pick for a Dead Sea Hotel: Herods Hotel Dead Sea

Pricing for Herods Hotel Dead Sea

25. Boracay, Philippines

A star attraction of the Philippines beach scene, Boracay draws hordes of tourists with its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. The White Beach part of the island boasts calm waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, while the windier Bulabog Beach on the opposite side of Boracay attracts travelers wanting to windsurf and kiteboard.

Our Top Pick for a Boracay Hotel: Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort & Spa

Pricing for Shangri-La's Boracay Resort & Spa

26. Kerala Backwaters, India

A large portion of the South Indian state of Kerala is dominated by the backwaters, a series of brackish waterways flanked by beautiful tropical foliage. The best way to experience the area is by taking an overnight or multi-day cruise through the waters aboard a traditional houseboat.

Our Top Pick for a Kerala Hotel: Le Colonial

Pricing for Le Colonial

27. Gobi Desert, Mongolia

Defying the popular notion that deserts are always hot, the Gobi Desert is Mongolia’s best-known natural area. This vast, desolate expanse is home to a number of historic Silk Road trading sites. Don’t miss the chance to sleep in a traditional Mongolian yurt, known as a ger.

28. Fanjingshan, China

The tallest peak in the Wuling mountain range, Fanjingshan has long been considered to be sacred by Chinese Buddhists, who believe that the Maitreya Buddha attained enlightenment here. The area surrounding the mountain is one of the most biodiverse in all of China, with thousands of different types of flora and fauna, including the endangered Guizhou snub-nosed monkeys.

29. Singapore

Arguably the most cosmopolitan spot in Southeast Asia, Singapore has four official languages and a foreign resident population of nearly 40 percent. In true big-city fashion, the shopping, dining, and entertainment options are a huge draw, as are the city’s numerous public gardens and green spaces.

Our Top Pick for a Singapore Hotel: Raffles Hotel Singapore

Pricing for Raffles Hotel Singapore

30. Dal Lake, Srinagar

Touted as the “crown jewel of Srinagar,” Dal Lake is among Kashmir’s most enchanting natural attractions. Set against a backdrop of the Pir Panjal mountains, this lake is known for its beautiful houseboats (many of which have been converted into homestays for travelers) and floating markets and gardens, which are easily visited from traditional boats known as shikaras.

31. Kathmandu, Nepal

Nepal’s capital city, Kathmandu is celebrated for its historic Hindu temples and Buddhist stupas, many of which date back centuries. At the heart of the city, the Durbar Square (a UNESCO World Heritage site) provides a fascinating glimpse into what life was like prior to the unification of Nepal.

32. Lhasa, Tibet

The capital city of Tibet, Lhasa is known for its architecture, particularly the Potala Palace, which was the residence of the Dalai Lama until he fled to McLeod Ganj in India during the 1959 Tibetan uprising. It’s also one of the highest cities on earth, with an altitude of 3,656 meters (or 11,994 feet).

33. Kumano Kodō, Japan

The collective name for a number of ancient Buddhist pilgrimage routes, the Kumano Kodō leads across the Kii Peninsula, through beautiful forests and past ancient shrines. While many who embark on the route today are pilgrims, it’s also an excellent place for hikers and seekers of all stripes looking to deepen their understanding of Japan’s ancient Shinto beliefs.

34. Gyeongju, South Korea

With numerous archaeological sites, this coastal city is a must-visit for history buffs. The arguably most noteworthy spot is Bulguksa, a Silla temple complex featuring beautifully preserved halls and pagodas, and the nearby Seokguram grotto, which houses a beautiful Buddha sculpture within its walls.

35. Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan

Built on a cliff overlooking the Paro Valley, Paro Taktsang (or Tiger’s Nest Monastery) in Bhutan is the tiny Himalayan kingdom’s most recognizable attraction. Seeing the monastery precariously perched on granite cliffs is reason enough to visit, but most visitors make the hike up to explore its colorful interiors.

36. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Also known by its previous name, Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is characterized by its beautiful architecture that integrates French, Cantonese, and homegrown influences. And although it’s the largest city in Vietnam, it feels surprisingly compact, with plenty of walkable districts and a thriving coffeeshop culture that encourages people-watching.

Our Top Pick for a Ho Chi Minh Hotel: Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel

Pricing for Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel

37. Beijing, China

China’s massive capital city provides an excellent glimpse into the country’s past and present. Here, you’ll find a mix of modern architecture and international fast-food joints juxtaposed against some of the world’s most beautifully preserved historic attractions, including the 15 th -century Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, right next door.

Our Top Pick for a Beijing Hotel: The Opposite House

Pricing for The Opposite House

38. Old City of Jerusalem, Israel

This tiny, walled-off section of Jerusalem is home to many of the city’s most important historic and religious attractions. Here, you’ll find the Temple Mount, the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock — all within an area that’s less than one square kilometer.

Our Top Pick for a Jerusalem Hotel: Mamilla Hotel

Pricing for Mamilla Hotel

39. Cappadocia, Turkey

In Turkey’s central Anatolia region, Cappadocia ‘s biggest draw is its landscape, with a large expanse of hoodoos (or fairy chimneys). Although many people come to check out the natural scenery — either on foot or by hot air balloon — it’s also worth stopping by the Churches of Göreme, celebrated for their beautifully preserved frescoed walls.

Our Top Pick for a Cappadocia Hotel: Kayakapi Premium Caves – Cappadocia

Pricing for Kayakapi Premium Caves – Cappadocia

40. Mount Everest, Nepal and China

On the border of Nepal and China, Mount Everest is not only the highest mountain in the Himalayas, but it’s also the highest mountain in the world. Although few people have the time or training to ascend it on foot, visitors willing to splash out can take a sightseeing flight that gets within 20 or so miles of the famous peak.

41. Mumbai, India

On the west coast of India, Mumbai may not be India’s capital city, or its largest (both of those honors go to Delhi), but it’s certainly the most cosmopolitan. Formerly known as Bombay, the city is home to gorgeous Raj-era architecture and historic temples, mosques, and churches plus a variety of festivals and celebrations throughout the year, from the annual Kala Ghoda Arts Festival to Ganesh Chaturthi, which honors the birth of Lord Ganesha.

Our Top Pick for a Mumbai Hotel: The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai

Pricing for The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai

42. Bangkok, Thailand

With great nightlife, incredible (and affordable) shopping, and arguably the best street-food scene in the world, Bangkok is a must-visit for anyone who loves the vibrancy of big-city life. It’s also home to some of Thailand’s most important cultural treasures, including the holy Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) and the royal Grand Palace.

Our Top Pick for a Bangkok Hotel: SO Sofitel Bangkok

Pricing for SO Sofitel Bangkok

43. Sumatra, Indonesia

One of the best things about Sumatra is that it offers beautiful jungle landscapes without the crowds of better-known destinations such as Bali. If you’ve ever dreamt of seeing orangutans in their natural habitat, the village of Bukit Lawang in the northern part of the island is one of your best bets.

44. Golden Temple, Amritsar

Officially known as Harmandir Sahib, the Golden Temple is among the most important pilgrimage sites for people of the Sikh faith. It gets its nickname thanks to its gold-plated exteriors. In addition to marveling at its beauty, it’s worth spending some time at this welcoming gurudwara to learn about the Sikh faith and history.

45. Bagan, Myanmar

Home to the largest archaeological site on earth, Bagan was the capital of the Pagan Kingdom, which flourished from the 11th to 13th centuries. You could easily spend days exploring the temples on foot, though many visitors opt to take in an alternative view — by hot air balloon.

46. Lahore, Pakistan

Considered by many to be the cultural capital of Pakistan, Lahore is home to numerous historic and religious attractions as well as some of the country’s greatest museums. Don’t miss a visit to the enormous 17 th -century mosque, Badshahi Masjid.

47. Hong Kong

With great museums, restaurants, and shopping, Hong Kong is best-known for its urban vitality. However, this global financial hub also has a more sylvan side. You won’t have to travel far from the dense city center to get out into nature, thanks to spots like Lantau Peak and Dragon’s Back.

Our Top Pick for a Hong Kong Hotel: Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui

Pricing for Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui

48. Ayutthaya, Thailand

Within day tripping distance of Bangkok, the former Siamese capital of Ayutthaya is one of Thailand’s most important archaeological sites. Founded in 1350, this city flourished for centuries, until it was ultimately destroyed by Burmese forces in the 1900s. Today, it features beautiful old monasteries and temples, some with beautiful murals.

49. Beirut, Lebanon

Once dubbed the Paris of the Middle East, the capital city of Lebanon has been inhabited for over five millennia. Although parts of Beirut were destroyed during the Lebanese Civil War, much of it has since been reconstructed. Today, this dynamic, fashionable city is home to some fantastic museums, great nightlife, and top-notch shopping. Editor’s Note: At the time of publishing, there were active protests in Beirut. We recommend checking travel advisories prior to booking a trip.

Our Top Pick for a Beirut Hotel: Staybridge Suites Beirut

Pricing for Staybridge Suites Beirut

50. Rajasthan, India

This northern Indian state is characterized by its stark desert landscapes as well as ornate, fanciful architecture and plenty of color in the local art and clothing. Even the camels, which are used for transportation and agriculture, are often adorned with bright hues. Here, you’ll also find India’s biggest forts and most whimsical palaces, many of which have been converted into heritage hotels for those who want to spend a night (or a week) like a royal.

Our Top Pick for a Rajasthan Hotel: Taj Lake Palace Udaipur

Pricing for Taj Lake Palace Udaipur

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Asia Travel Guide

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Best Places to Visit in Asia in 2024/2025

Asia is not only the most diverse continent but also the multi-cultural melting pot of a few oldest civilizations on Earth. Whether you’re history buffs, nature enthusiasts or food lovers, our list of the top best places to visit in Asia has got them all - From bustling cities, historic colonial buildings, lush tropical forests to impressive ancient temples with mouth-watering cuisine and breathtaking scenery with an abundance of charming beaches. 

BEST CITIES TO VISIT IN ASIA

Our experts have compiled a collection of some of the top best cities to visit in Asia where you can choose to start your unforgettable holiday - From the bustling and vibrant nightlife - Hanoi city in Vietnam to the skyscrapers city - Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia , or from the city with countless ancient temples - Mandalay in Myanmar to the mountainous region Chiang Mai and more, Asia continent always has something to offer your wishes.

• Hanoi, Vietnam
• Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Bangkok, Thailand
• Chiang Mai, Thailand
• Mandalay, Myanmar

Read  The Top Best Cities to Visit in Asia  post to learn more

BEST BEACHES TO VISIT IN ASIA

There is an abundance of amazing islands with white sandy beaches in Asia where has always been considered a tropical paradise for beach lovers. If you are a first-time traveller and want to plan to visit some beautiful beaches in Asia, you’d be overwhelmed by countless options (e.g., Bali Island in Indonesia, Phi Phi Islands in Thailand or the hidden gem Ngapali Beach ). Our experts have compiled a list of the top best beaches in Asia for a tropical getaway!

• Bali Island, Indonesia
• Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam
• Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
• Ngapali Beach, Myanmar
• Langkawi, Malaysia
• Boracay, The Philippines

Read  The Top Beach Holiday Destinations to Visit in Asia post to learn more

BEST CULTURAL PLACES TO VISIT IN ASIA

There are countless cultural places across Asia continent. Whether you’re craving a charming town with an abundance of colourful lanterns, strolling through the most charming alleys, or an unforgettable trip to the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Site in Cambodia – Angkor Wat Complex or travelling back in time when seeing many colonial architectures in Luang Prabang in Laos , Asia always has many amazing destinations to offer your wishes. Read this post to learn more about the top best historical & cultural destinations in Asia!

• Siem Reap, Cambodia
• George Town, Malaysia
• Hoi An Town, Vietnam
• Inle Lake, Myanmar
• Luang Prabang, Laos
• Bagan, Myanmar
• Vigan, The Philippines

Read Ideal History & Culture Places to Visit in Asia  post to learn more

BEST NATURAL PLACES TO VISIT IN ASIA

Asia covers the largest area of our planet. This is also home to an abundance of natural wonders – from the thousands of limestones in Halong Bay, the incredible Kelimutu volcano to the giant lizards in Komodo National Park and the stunning Chocolate Hills in the Philippines . If you are thinking about taking a holiday to Asia, taking a peek at the list of the top best natural places in Asia to visit which have carefully picked by our experts.

• Halong Bay, Vietnam
• Kelimutu, Flores Island, Indonesia
• Komodo Island, Indonesia
• Lake Toba, North Sumatra Island, Indonesia
• Chocolate Hills, Bohol, The Philippines

Read  The Best Places in Asia for Nature lovers post to learn more

BEST ADVENTURE DESTINATIONS TO TRAVEL IN ASIA

Want to go on thrilling adventures? Asia is well known for having so many beautiful sites in the world that allow your inner adventurer to go wild! Planning a memorable trip to visit the Kalimantan / Borneo rainforests, or discover the biggest cave in the world – Son Doong Cave in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, or join in a jeep tour to witness the most magnificent active volcano on Earth – Mt Bromo located at Java in Indonesia , here are the top best destinations for travel adventures in Asia for you.

• Kalimantan Island, Indonesia
• Phong Nha –Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam
• Sabah, Malaysia
• Sarawak, Malaysia
• Mt Bromo, Java, Indonesia

Read  The Top Best Adventure Destinations to Travel in Asia  post to learn more

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The 50 Most Beautiful Places in Asia

By Caitlin Morton

Asia is the largest continent both in terms of sheer size (17,139,445 square miles) and population (more than four billion), which means there's literally no shortage of things to see: think rice paddies in Bali , monasteries in Bhutan, bridges in Malaysia, and water palaces in India—and we're only just getting started. Here, a look at 50 of the most breathtaking sites across Asia.

Bunaken Marine Park, Indonesia

Jaipur, India

Ajanta Caves, India

Taj Mahal, India

Borobudur, Java, Indonesia

Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia

Tanah Lot, Bali, Indonesia

Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Masada, Israel

Isfahan, Iran

Nara Park, Japan

Palawan, The Philippines

Fushimi Inari-Taisha, Kyoto, Japan

Philosopher's Walk, Kyoto, Japan

Himeji Castle, Japan

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan

Singapore Skyline

Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, Gyeongju National Park, South Korea

Mount Fuji, Japan

Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul, South Korea

Luang Prabang, Laos

Baekdu Mountains, North Korea

Jeju Island, South Korea

Langkawi, Malaysia

Paro Taktsang Monastery, Bhutan

Kerala Backwaters, India

The Temples of Angkor, Cambodia

Forbidden City, Beijing, China

Great Wall of China

Leh, Ladakh, India

Hong Kong Skyline

Jal Mahal, India

Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Ko Tao, Thailand

Lhasa, Tibet

Sa Pa, Vietnam

Hoi An, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Taroko National Park, Taiwan

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Gobi Desert, Mongolia

Central Market, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Arkhangai, Mongolia

Museum of Islamic Art, Doha, Qatar

Bagan, Myanmar

Petra, Jordan

Socotra, Yemen

Jiufen, Taiwan

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Reed Flute Cave, Guilin, China

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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

El Nido Tour A – Lagoons and Beaches Island Hopping

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

JR Pass for Whole Japan

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

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

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

Yangon Highlights Private Tour

Yangon and Bagan Bus – VIP Ticket (One Way)

Bagan Temples Cultural Full Day Tour

See more : Myanmar travel tips

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

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

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

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

Taj Mahal Fast Track Entry Ticket

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

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

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

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

Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang Shuttle – Shared City Transfers

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

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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August 24, 2015 at 6:00 pm

THANKS FOR sharing your trAvel experiences…. !

October 18, 2015 at 12:27 am

The pleasure is mine, MALMAM :) My travels around Asia had brought me so many beautiful experiences, this is my way of giving back by sharing.

March 10, 2016 at 4:19 pm

Wow. This made me feel more excited to travel asia in the future! Anw, One of the countries I have listed on my bucket list is Thailand. How was the food and service? :)

April 30, 2016 at 10:51 am

Very detailed article. Got many ideas to which country I must first go. Super loved it. Thanks for sharing this ?

October 29, 2016 at 2:21 am

Some amendments: in Vietnam, 1 USD is around 22,250 VND. you have to exchange at least 50$, or the exchange rate will be higher. Many scandals of toxic food, even in big restaurants.

October 30, 2016 at 11:35 am

That’s true. You can get best rates if you exchange using $100 bills. A lot of exchange stalls offer lower exchange rates if you use bills with smaller denomination.

November 18, 2016 at 10:50 am

Very impressive especially with the details of the itinerary! nice job Marcos~~

November 29, 2016 at 2:29 pm

Thanks Sue!

October 12, 2018 at 11:09 pm

Thanks for sharing such a very detailed article, it’s definitely helpful :)

December 8, 2018 at 10:10 pm

where is china south korea and japan?

January 11, 2019 at 11:10 am

Agreed on all three but especially JAPAN !!!

I’ve been to all of these countries and Japan is by far my favorite. How could you leave such these cultural gems off a seemingly definitive list?

January 11, 2019 at 11:33 pm

Hi James. Went to Japan last month. I totally agree with you! I will definitely add Japan to the list on the next update.

December 31, 2019 at 6:37 am

Hong Kong is NOT A COUNTRY!!! ?

December 29, 2018 at 1:55 pm

been traveling 2x a yr, this yr 2018, been to Jordan, Egypt, Turkey ,& Greece, china last April. Next will be Phil. o

ur base. and been to Bangkok and Singapore. Will you be able to extend your expertise as to places in Asia to visit, fr Phil a week in a country maybe.

August 17, 2019 at 11:14 pm

Nepal should be in no 1

January 22, 2019 at 5:33 pm

Informative

August 14, 2019 at 4:55 pm

Hi! Love your blog! Just wanna ask if you’ve ever been to Japan on a December or any month? Do you have itinerary? Hope you’ll answer! Thank you!

October 12, 2019 at 4:33 am

Hi. My name is Orlando. I will be in Bali from Jan. 7-11. I will have 3 full days (8-10) to explore the beautiful city (I know that’s not enough time). What are the MUST see or do within those 3 days? Your experience and knowledgeable suggestions would be much appreciated. Hotel suggestions can help too (from lowest to mid rates per day). Thanks.

October 21, 2019 at 4:23 pm

Oh my friend you narration was really awesome. If some more explanation about the particular destination this would be awesome. Can you prepare me a perfect travel plan across Asia.

December 31, 2019 at 3:01 am

Pakistan is also one of the best country to travel.

January 20, 2020 at 2:30 pm

Yeah right XD

January 2, 2021 at 9:19 am

It surely is!

January 5, 2020 at 9:17 am

I’m an avid fan here. Your blog helped me a lot in planning my trip esp in Asia. Thanks for sharing your experiences. Looking forward to your future adventures.

January 6, 2020 at 4:30 pm

pakistan is also an amazing for visiting once you visit you should be it’s fan… ohh dear don’t miss the chance bcoz i have visited pakistan 2 time with a new charm

January 8, 2020 at 4:24 pm

Hi. I will be in Malaysia from April 9-12. I will have 3 full days to explore the city. What are the MUST see or do within those 3 days? Your experience and suggestions would be much appreciated. Hotel suggestions can help too (from lowest to mid rates per day). Thanks.

January 11, 2020 at 7:41 pm

Hi Jecca. You can check out my KL Travel Guide here: https://www.detourista.com/guide/kuala-lumpur-trip/

January 9, 2020 at 6:25 pm

Hi Marcus! Thank you for sharing your travel experiences? Any idea how much will I spend or how much budget do I need If Il visit thailand,vietnam and cambodia?excluding the airfare.

January 11, 2020 at 7:39 pm

Hi Tiffany, you can check out my blog here: https://www.detourista.com/guide/indochina-itinerary/

February 9, 2020 at 6:19 pm

Thanks for sharing this bundle of information here. It’s Really Helpful for me. Keep sharing these kinds of information as it engages more travelers and tourists.

March 17, 2020 at 2:20 pm

Really powerful article. Enjoyed the read!

April 28, 2020 at 11:09 pm

How aboat Iran?

May 14, 2020 at 12:39 am

Thanks for sharing such beautiful information, I love reading this. I hope you will share some more info about other countries in Europe or America as well for first-time visitors.

April 29, 2021 at 7:17 am

Pakistan is one of the most beautiful and interesting country in the world. … I would highly recommend you to visit Pakistan at least once in your life because the soul of the people and the beauty of its natural landscape topped with the fascinating aspects of its rich culture are sure to make it an experience you will always treasure your experience which would be, indeed, unforgettable: Naltar valley. Naltar is famous for its colourful lakes, it is situated at a drive of 2.5 hours from Gilgit. … Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir. … Shangrila resort, Skardu. … Gojal Valley. … Deosai Plains. … Rama Meadow. … Paye. … Ayun and Bamburet Valley.

September 16, 2021 at 6:51 pm

Hunza valley in Pakistan is also worth visiting.

July 17, 2022 at 2:38 am

Srilanka is the most Beautiful country in the world . But it’s not included here

July 20, 2023 at 4:38 pm

Beautiful list of Asian countries for adventure-seekers and leisure travelers. I am lucky to have explored Nepal, Singapore, and Indonesia. I will cover the rest of other one by one.

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The Best Places to Go in Asia in 2024

By Condé Nast Traveller

This is part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2024 – find more travel inspiration here .

It’s official, Asia is back – brighter, bolder and more ambitious than ever. The region took longer than others to shake off pandemic-related travel restrictions and border closures, but has returned in full force, eager to remind international travellers what they’ve been missing.

The continent’s titanic expanse of territories has always offered a diverse tapestry of to-dos – but across the region, new experiences, events and accommodation options await. Sri Lanka is emerging phoenix-like from economic crisis and responding with a new food festival, wellness-oriented retreats and a hiking trail that snakes through 300 kilometres of hill country and centuries of history. Mongolia is relaxing visa restrictions to give more people the opportunity to experience its vast, rugged landscapes, and Kochi is setting the bar when it comes to city-wide sustainability initiatives. In the UAE, a lesser-known emirate is vying for attention, while a Japanese port city is flexing its design muscles.

Expanded green spaces, intriguing boutique resorts, luxury sleeper trains and the ancient Silk Road: our list of the 11 best places to visit in Asia in 2024, entirely informed by contributing writers spread across the world, is packed full of reasons to head east next year.

Don’t forget to also visit our global list of international destinations to visit in 2023, vetted by Condé Nast Traveller editors based in the U.S., U.K., Spain and India. – Selina Denman & Julian Manning

The best places to go in Asia in 2024

Go for: Forest trails; new luxury stays; and Taylor Swift devotees

Even by Singapore’s hyperkinetic standards, 2024 is shaping up to be an unusually livewire year. March will usher in devoted Taylor Swift fans to the National Stadium in Kallang, as the popstar lights up the waterfront venue in her sole South East Asian stop on the record-shattering The Eras Tour. Hotel bookings have reportedly surged in anticipation, right on the heels of a string of high-profile openings in 2023, including the much-anticipated Mondrian Singapore Duxton near Chinatown. Relaunches and openings will continue into 2024, with the Grand Hyatt on the plush Orchard Road-Scotts Road juncture unveiling a completely new look, and Raffles inaugurating its villa-style spa and resort on Sentosa Island .

Singapore is also adding exciting accoutrements to its impressive green quilt. At Gardens by the Bay , the country’s landscaping masterpiece, the longest sculpture in the world – a 192-metre parade depicting 60 endangered animals cast in bronze – is on display until May. Cycling paths are coming to 10 additional neighbourhoods (Jurong Lake District and Punggol among them), and some will be linked to the city’s more than 300km-long green network of park connectors. A 230-metre-long forest trail and a lagoon pool will be among the highlights of the soon-to-reopen Big Sister’s Island marine park.

Not to forget Singapore’s legendary glamour, which holds sway over everything, as Belmond returns with its long-awaited Eastern & Oriental Express , kicking off a new journey from Singapore to Malaysia and back in February. In September, the country has its annual date with Formula 1 at the iconic Marina Bay Street Circuit, which, as F1’s original night race, is set against a dazzling backdrop of skyscrapers and city lights. – Lakshmi Sankaran

South and central Sri Lanka

Go for: Wellness retreats; a new food festival; and a 300km nature trail

Rising from economic uncertainty, Sri Lanka ’s tourism industry is in the midst of a luxury and wellness boom – from its tea-filled highlands to its palm-fringed shores. In the south of the country, new luxury resorts continue to entice. Among them, Kayaam House and Ahu Bay by homegrown luxury travel specialist Resplendent Ceylon; a Hilton resort next to the Indian Ocean-bordering Yala National Park, one of the best places to spot Sri Lanka’s elusive leopards; and the art deco-inspired The Charleston, which opens in December in the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. The already established Kalukanda House – a colonial villa in surf town Weligama by British-Sri Lankan interior designer Dee Gibson – is making its mark with retreats centred on female empowerment, with yoga, breathwork, reiki and Ayurveda included.

A comprehensive renovation of the nine-room Meraki , which employs local women and offers yoga, holistic treatments, island-sourced vegetarian fare and artisanal crafts in the Polhena Beach district of Matara, is set to be unveiled in early 2024; and luxury fitness getaway Makahiya is gearing up to launch its own brand of bespoke retreats.

In January, the Galle Literary Festival will return after a five-year hiatus, with appearances by literary figures such as Shehan Karunatilaka and Alexander McCall Smith, while Gourmet Galle , the country’s new food festival, will spotlight 12 chefs in 12 venues, ranging from beaches to paddy fields, over a 12-week period from January to March.

Inland, development of the Pekoe Trail , a new 300km network of hiking routes that snakes its way through Sri Lanka’s highlands, continues. Traversing historic tea plantations, colonial estates, local villages, holy shrines, and forests brimming with biodiversity, it’s a novel way to experience Sri Lanka’s lush hill country, particularly when paired with stays at boutique properties such as W15 Hanthana, the luxurious Goatfell , or the Kelburne Estate, scheduled to open in December 2024.  – Zinara Rathnayake

Da Nang, Vietnam

Go for: Nature reserves; central Vietnamese cuisine; and the firework festival

A modern beach city located amid dozens of UNESCO-recognised sites in the country’s heartland – including the ancient port city of Hoi An and the former imperial capital city of Hue – Da Nang is one of Asia’s big post-Covid success stories, with 2023 international arrivals exceeding pre-pandemic figures, thanks in part to new flight routes that make the City of Bridges easier to get to than ever. In 2023, Vietnam Airlines reopened its popular Tokyo route, Taiwan’s China Airlines started direct flights from Taipei, and several Southeast Asian budget airlines launched flights to the city, with plenty more in the works. Every June, more than 150 daily flights deliver tourists eager to witness the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival.

Son Tra Peninsula – located just 20 minutes from the city centre – is another tourist draw, home to a 17-storey, 220-foot statue of Lady Buddha, as well as endangered red-shanked douc langurs that live in the peninsula’s nature reserve. Central Vietnamese food specialties like Mì Quảng, the official noodle soup of the region, and Bánh Xèo turmeric crepes, should be another feature of any travel itinerary.

Hotel and resort developers are taking note of Da Nang’s newfound popularity. On Son Tra Peninsula, the Bill Bensley-designed Intercontinental Sun Peninsula Resort recently completed an extensive 10th-anniversary renovation that includes a new club lounge, villas, and spa concept. IHG Hotel Group’s voco Ma Belle Danang opened in the city in 2023, and 2024 will herald the arrival of Da Nang’s first Mandarin Oriental property and an outpost of the wellness-driven Southeast Asian Fusion Hotel group. – Dan Q. Dao

Kochi, India

Go for: Sustainable initiatives; stunning waterways; and local festivals

Kochi's draws are modern and old-school in equal measure. For one thing, Kochi's 10 islands will become fully solar-powered by 2024. But local festivals like the ancient temple gathering of Thrissur Pooram and the Kochi-Muziris Biannale maintain the texture and history that make the place special.

Kochi’s waterways have lured visitors for centuries, its verdant backwaters, lagoons and rivers are as attractive to travellers today as they were to Arab, Chinese and European merchants in the 1300s. As one of the first in the world, its water metro system – a socially inclusive transport option connecting 10 islands along a 78-kilometre network – was already revolutionary when it launched in 2021, but will set the bar even higher by late 2024, when it becomes fully solar powered.

The move is part of a wider effort to transform Kerala’s financial and industrial capital into a solar powerhouse. The city’s international airport (CIAL) is the first in the world to operate solely on solar energy and was recently upgraded with the introduction of a dedicated business jet terminal that’s the largest in India. This will be complemented by a refreshed airport hotel in mid-2024, as the current property is brought under the Taj banner and upgraded accordingly. Improvements are also underway at Kochi’s 150-year-old Ernakulam Market, which is set to unveil its years-in-the-making redesign in early 2024.

On a wider scale, Kerala Tourism 2.0, the state’s $43 million 2023-2024 sustainable tourism initiative, will focus on improving infrastructure and travel corridors between Kochi and less-visited destinations such as Munnar and Kozhikode – as well as local festivals, from the ancient temple gathering of Thrissur Pooram to the Kochi-Muziris Biennale . Meanwhile, responsible tourism operator The Blue Yonder – which created a twilight dining experience inspired by Kochi’s historic Chinese fishing nets in 2023 in Ezhikkara – offers opportunities to experience conservation-focused mangrove trails and climate-resilient Pokkali rice farms, alongside it's revamped 2023-2024 Nila River voyages: two-week odysseys along the state’s cultural lifeline, from the Palakkad gap to Ponnani. – Taarika John

Kathmandu Valley, Nepal

Go for: lesser known walking trails; new vantage points; and the international folk festival

The Mustang Trail Race is just one of many events on the horizon for Kathmandu Valley designed to encourage visitors to embrace and immerse themselves in the Himalayan landscape.

Kathmandu Valley’s standing as Nepal’s cultural hub will be revived in early 2024 with the return of the International Folk Festival, Nepal in March – its first in-person iteration since 2020 – and the biennial Film Southasia , South Asia’s premier documentary festival, later in the year.

Atop Kathmandu Valley’s picturesque ridges lie the emergent destinations of Dhulikhel and Chandragiri, replete with hidden trails that are an unexpected alternative to Nepal’s more well-trodden and strenuous trekking routes. In Dhulikhel, Thai hospitality outfit Dusit Hotels and Resorts recently launched a charming luxury resort , while nearby, the Namo Buddha Eco Resort offers an opportunity to explore Nepal’s sustainable agricultural practices.

Bolstered by a commitment to improve the country’s tourism infrastructure with the launch of Nepal’s Tourism Decade in 2023, 2024 will see the Kathmandu Valley continue to serve as a gateway to the rest of Nepal’s tourism hotspots, with improved road and air connectivity between Kathmandu and the valleys of Pokhara and Mustang. As the 2024 additions to Pokhara’s hospitality landscape, such as Le Glamour Luxury Resort , set up in lofty vantage points across the valley, easier access to the once-remote Mustang Valley is similarly leading to the introduction of luxury accommodation options such as the stunning 29-suite Bill Bensley-designed Shinta Mani Mustang and events such as the Mustang Trail Race, designed to encourage visitors to fully immerse themselves in this singular Himalayan landscape. – Amulya Gyawali

The Silk Road, Uzbekistan

Go for: the ancient charm of the Silk Road charging into the future with new high-speed rail routes

Samarkand is one of four cities in Uzbekistan benefitting from a renewed interest in the Silk Road, with Afrosiyob, a new high-speed rail network linking its minarets and turquoise-blue tiling with the country's capital of Tashkent—and more. Routes to Khiva, 2024's tourism capital of the Islamic world, will come online next year.

For centuries, traders journeyed along the ancient Silk Road, weaving westwards from China to Iran and Turkey , sharing their stories and cultures alongside textiles, tea, and perfume. Today, four cities in Uzbekistan – Samarkand, Tashkent, Bukhara, and Khiva – are benefitting from renewed interest in this historic route. Explorers may once have had to contend with long, arduous journeys on camel-back, but new Afrosiyob high-speed trains have become a lifeline linking Tashkent, the country’s capital, to Samarkand and Bukhara. In 2024, this 600-kilometre rail network will extend to Khiva, making it even easier to explore Uzbek Silk Road cities.

While Samarkand’s minarets and turquoise-blue tiling are hallmarks of regal Timurid architecture – evident in the towering monoliths of Registan Square – Bukhara is the site of beguiling mosque complexes and age-old rug-making traditions. In Tashkent, the host of 2024’s FIFA Futsal World Cup , heritage is combined with a more cosmopolitan verve, and Swissôtel is slated to open its first property here in 2024.

Khiva, the latest rail stop, has also been declared 2024’s tourism capital of the Islamic world, perfectly positioning it to showcase the mud-and-straw walls and impeccably preserved fortifications of Itchan Kala , a UNESCO-certified inner city with over 50 historic monuments. – Lakshmi Sankaran

Kobe, Japan

Go for: new creative spaces; Japanese design; and hip hotels

In Kobe, Japan, design-forward spaces, like the new Officine Universelle Buly skincare shop (left), are creatively building on its seafaring heritage.

Sandwiched between steep mountains and sparkling seas in southwestern Japan , the port city of Kobe is seriously strengthening its design credentials. Taking centre stage is Vague Kobe , a new creative space by Teruhiro Yanagihara Studio (TYS). Spanning the upper levels of an elegant former 1930s bank, it houses a gallery, bookstore, café, wine bar, flower shop, and design studio. In a perfectly measured showcase of contemporary Japanese design – and a reflection of Kobe’s seafaring heritage – renovated interiors combine crafted walls of traditional Japanese plasterwork and clean minimalist lines with large windows, stone floors, and ornate tilework.

Further proof of Kobe’s design ascendency was the arrival of French artisanal perfume and skincare brand Officine Universelle Buly in mid-2023, its shop and café interiors flamboyantly layered in signature style – from Kobe beef-inspired expanses of red-veined marble to chocolate-like lacquerware and “dripping” lamps. Recent plans by Trunk, arguably Tokyo ’s hippest hotel group, to make Kobe the setting for its first hotel outside the capital is further evidence of the city’s prominence. And Kobe Port Tower - a panoramic observation deck on the shores of Osaka Bay – will reopen in early 2024 with a string of new facilities, including a new museum showcasing light-themed artworks and a fancy 360-degree revolving café bar. – Danielle Demetriou

Bangkok (Chinatown), Thailand

Go for: A culinary renaissance in one of the world’s biggest Chinatowns

Always one of the buzziest districts in Bangkok, Chinatown makes the list this year for its ever-exciting food scene. In the year ahead, expect a new wave of restaurants to sprout in this neon-glowing nexus.

With its mom-and-pop noodle joints, incense-infused shrines, and tuk-tuks clattering through centuries-old alleyways, Chinatown has always been one of Bangkok 's buzziest districts. In the mid-2010s, chefs, mixologists and gallerists started setting up shop in the crumbling townhouses on the district's outskirts and now, a new wave of restaurateurs is headed for Chinatown's neon-glowing nexus, Yaowarat Road. Among them is Australian chef and Thai food guru David Thompson, who, at his Chop Chop Cook Shop, riffs on recipes – buttered prawns, braised peas –from the Chinese-Western restaurants that were all the rage across Bangkok in the 1930s. Upstairs, Goldsmith Bar transforms ingredients commonly found in the neighbourhood – shiitake syrup, osmanthus oolong – into heady drinks, and will soon be joined by a Chinese restaurant on the top floor and rooftop terrace.

Lucky Duck, another newcomer, has taken up residence in a historic building nearby and serves up drinks inspired by old-timey Chinese films. Perennially packed Thai restaurant Charmgang is set to open a more laid-back sibling, Charmkrung, where wines and light bites will dominate the menu; and judging from the many buildings currently concealed by tarpaulin and bamboo scaffolding, more bars and restaurants will follow suit. But how much change is too much? 2024 presents a chance to experience the charm of this storied district while still in flux. – Chris Schalkx

Go for: visa-free entry; off-beat cultural experiences; and unscripted adventure

Thrill-seeking adventure travellers will always find something to love about Mongolia.

Mongolia has long been the destination for thrill-seeking adventure travellers – as participants in the wonderfully chaotic “unrouted” Mongol Rally will attest – but the country is expanding beyond that niche as its tourism board sets its sights on attracting one million tourists per year. In 2023, the country launched visa-free travel for a further 34 nationalities – bringing the total up to 61 – in a campaign that is set to run until 2025.

The launch of new luxury lodges, cultural tours, and the announcement of the country’s first ever direct US flight, coming in 2024 to the $650-million Chinggis Khaan International Airport, further signal Mongolia’s tourism ambitions.

Following the success of the rugged-but-chic Three Camel Lodge , Mongolia’s luxury accommodation options are expanding with places such as Yeruu Lodge , which opened in 2023. Offbeat cultural experiences are one of the most compelling reasons to visit the country’s vast, rugged expanses and local operator Breanna Wilson offers some of the best. After a successful season of horse trekking and the Naadam Festival – a colourful display of strength, horsemanship and marksmanship –in 2023, Wilson is expanding her 2024 tours to include a digital nomad week, a women-only retreat in Orkhon Valley, and a three-day archery training session with Namnaa Academy , an organisation that began reviving the ancient art of mounted archery in 2020. – Ali Wunderman

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE

Go for: Exhilarating adventure sports; unexpected accommodation options; and the novelty of mountains in the Middle East

Adventure tourism developments are in the works in Ras Al Khaimah's rocky mountains (and along its undersung coastline), with Jebel Jais acting as the home base for a burgeoning hiking, skiing, and ziplining scene.

With its rocky mountains and low-key coastline, Ras Al Khaimah has long served as a weekend escape for UAE residents. But with several adventure tourism developments in the works and an influx of luxury properties lining up to open in the UAE’s fourth-largest emirate, there’s plenty happening now to put Ras Al Khaimah on the global tourism map. On an island just off the coast, the 174-room Anantara Mina Al Arab Resort , home to the country’s first overwater villas, will welcome its first guests in January – to be joined by a 155-room Nikki Beach Resort later in the year.

But most of the action is happening on the slopes of Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest mountain. At its base are the new Jais Yard, featuring food trucks, retail kiosks, children’s play areas, and an open-air cinema, and Basecamp Jais, with affordable accommodation that’s ideal for those wanting to head out and hike. Higher up, among the peaks that are already home to the world’s longest zipline, adrenaline-lovers will soon be able to launch themselves into the blue beneath the canopy of a paraglider with the new Jais Wings experience. And if all that activity leaves you longing for a comfortable place to rest, the 70 luxurious rooms at new nature-focused Saij Mountain Lodge are perfect for bedding down. – Nicola Chilton

Red Sea, Saudi Arabia

Go for: Bragging rights; pristine nature; and a new take on sustainability

Saudi Arabia's Red Sea has both untouched desert and vibrant coral reefs—both of which will be part of an ambitious sustainable tourism development in the destination in 2024.

Creating a completely new tourism destination in an area of pristine natural beauty – including coral reefs that are home to critically endangered species, unspoilt desert, and dormant volcanoes – is a fine tightrope to walk. Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea aims to navigate these challenges with ambitious efforts that will make it a centre of regenerative tourism, powered by 100 per cent renewable energy. Only 22 of the more than 90 islands in the area will be developed, and nine have been designated as protected conservation areas. While many of the sustainability efforts will be behind the scenes, some are visible – and visitable.

New mangrove parks will be populated with trees currently being grown in a mangrove nursery (the project aims to plant 50 million by 2030). The first phase of the destination, which includes 16 luxury hotels, is powered by 760,000 solar panels, and the world’s first zero-carbon 5G network has already been installed. Three resorts – Six Senses Southern Dunes , Nujuma, and The St. Regis – are set to open in the coming months, each with its own strict programme of sustainability measures, ranging from light-touch modular structures to intelligent landscaping, smart waste management, and local sourcing. Transport within the destination will be by e-vehicles, and hydrogen-powered seaplanes will eventually transport visitors between the islands. Whether a luxury tourist destination can ever truly be sustainable remains to be seen, but the efforts being made in the Red Sea are certainly testing the hypothesis. – Nicola Chilton

23 Best Places to Visit in Asia to visit in 2024

Asia is one of those places that will never cease to amaze me. It almost seems like the name is too simple for a country with such a variety of cultures, history, food, and personalities. If you’ve been intimidated by Asia, I implore you to visit. While many travelers think of the big names of Japan and China, there are so many other places to explore! I partnered with travel bloggers to continue my dream destinations series (be sure to check out the Europe , USA , Africa , Oceania , and South America destinations if you’re still looking for travel inspiration!). So in no particular order, here are 23 Best Destinations in Asia to visit.

If you like this post, be sure to sign up for my e-mail list for travel inspiration (and get your FREE budget printable), or connect with me on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter , or Pinterest .

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Goa is a well-known tourist destination in India known for its countless beaches. The beaches here are lively, with some having tons of beach shacks, clubs, cafés and visitors whereas others are pristine and completely untouched. The famous beaches here include Arambol beach, Palolem beach, and Anjuna beach. On the other hand, Cabo de Rama beach and Cola beach are off the tourist radar, a little hard to find but incredibly beautiful and highly recommended by locals.

While in Goa, apart from the beaches, it’s worth checking out the many Churches (Old Goa Church and Panjim Church are the most famous ones). You can even visit Chorao island which is a bird sanctuary. The capital city of Goa – Panaji has many things to offer including the old Latin quarters which is a colorful and photogenic neighborhood. You can easily spend at least  3 days in Goa , though most people end up staying here for a week or more. Now, since Goa is the most popular state in India and is a popular choice among both foreign and domestic travelers, it’s quite commercial.

There are innumerable places to stay here which include hostels, budget hotels and fabulous upscale resorts. Moreover, there are excellent cafés and restaurants at every step here. Zomato is a great website/app to check the latest trendy places to eat in Goa. All in all, it’s a great and inexpensive place for an incredible beach vacation for any budget.

Thanjavur, India

Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu’s cultural capital, is located in the lush Cauvery delta and is recognized for its temples, arts, handicrafts, and fascinating history. It is known as the ‘Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu’ because of its extensive rice cultivation. Some of the   best things to do in Thanjavur   are: 

Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple or the Big Temple:  It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a Chola architectural marvel. This spherical apex structure is said to be cut out from a single stone.

Saraswathi Mahal Library:  The Nayak rulers built this library around the 16th-17th centuries, and it was later enhanced by the Maratha king Serforji II.

Royal Palace Museum:  This palace, located to the north of the Brihadeeswarar Temple, is a huge cultural monument. It has a history dating back to the Thanjavur Nayaks, who ruled the region from the 16th to the 17th century.

And, while you’re visiting these magnificent sites, you have to take a break and stop by to eat at:

Sri Venkata Lodge:  This café serves vegetarian meals and is said to be one of South films’ actors, Sivaji Ganeshan’s favourite places to eat in town. Do try out Puli Sadam, which is delicious tamarind rice!

Anbu Milk Bar:  Set up roughly 40 years ago, it is a well-known shop that serves long lines of customers. Their most popular drinks are the frothy and decadent Bombay lassi (a drink made of yoghurt) and Almond milk, served with a dollop of cream on top. 

While in Thanjavur, you can stay at Svatma, a luxurious resort that is tranquil and peaceful but is also not too far away from major tourist attractions. 

Leh, Ladakh, India

Leh is the capital of the Ladakh region in north India at the foot of the Himalayas. Its location at a 3000-meter altitude surrounded by endless barren mountain ranges makes the charming small town one of the most extraordinary places on earth. It is where Tibetan Buddhism is the most authentically practiced. In contrast to other parts of India, Leh is scarcely populated, quiet, and clean, with most people being Tibetan Buddhists or Muslim immigrants from Kashmir. Apart from the summer month (June-September), harsh winter conditions prevail in Leh, which you should consider when you plan your trip. Leh is a perfect place to discover the  rest of Ladakh , with monasteries clinging against the rock. Also, many people combine it with visiting Kashmir. 

Visit the ruins of the  Leh Palace, the former royal palace of the Ladakhi kings . It looks more like a massive fortress decorated with wooden balconies.

The white-domed  Buddhist Shanti Stupa  is a must-see in Leh, especially during sunset or sunrise with stunning views of the valley. 

However, it is the landscape that makes Leh the most memorable.

The Tibetan kitchen is a cozy restaurant in the heart of Leh and one of the best places to try local cuisine. One famous Ladakhi food is  Chutagi,  a pasta-like dish with a rich vegetable-based sauce or  Momos,  boiled dumplings filled with minced meat, spinach, potato, cabbage, carrots, or onions.

Kochi, India

Kochi is a beautiful city in the state of Kerala in South India. Kerala  is popularly called as ‘God’s own country’ & Kochi showcases that perfectly.

Kochi has a beautiful coastline with great beaches & a lot of history … But the backwaters are the distinguishing feature of  Kerala & they can be experienced in Kochi too.

Kochi is perfect for travelers interested in beaches, food & history. Buy some spices & sarees as memories of your travels. 

While in Kochi, you must tick off these experiences:

1.Backwaters from Kochi Kerala 

You can visit Vaikom backwaters to experience the maze of canals & lagoons that make Kerala backwaters famous.Book a houseboat,shikara or kayak for cruising them.

2. Heritage walk around Fort Kochi &  Chinese fishing nets.

Fort Kochi gives a peek into the city’s multi-cultural history with Dutch, French & Jew influences. Do check out the Chinese fishing nets in the area.Visit the spice market nearby to buy quality spices at very reasonable prices from here. 

3. Kathakali & Kalari show at Fort Kochi

Kathakali is the traditional dance of Kerala. Do reach the venue early to catch the elaborate & unique make-up session of the dancers. Kalaripayattu is the ancient art of sword fighting . Both are held in the same precinct.

Kochi is famous for its variety of seafood. Appam with Stew & Puttu with Kadala Curry should not be missed in the vegetarian fare. Do remember to have Sadya here- lot of types of vegetables with rice & assortments that’s served on a banana leaf. It’s typically eaten with hands- no spoons. BTH & Gokul Ottupura are famous for the sadyas. Taj Malabar & Avenue Regent are recommended for an enjoyable stay.

Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo

If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-track adventure in Asia, then look no further than the state of Sarawak in Malaysian Borneo. Famous for its natural beauty, lush rainforests, unique cultures and incredible food, Sarawak is the perfect place for those seeking a different experience. 

Any visit to Sarawak must include at least one trip to a national park – amazingly, the area is actually home to 30 different conservation areas! One of the most famous is Gunung Mulu National Park , where you can explore some of the largest caves in the world, watch the incredible spectacle of three million bats flying out of a cave at dusk, and go jungle trekking and adventure caving.

If you love music, then plan your visit to Sarawak in July as this is when the annual Rainforest World Music Festival is held. Each year over 20,000 people attend this 3-day festival, which features incredible performances from musicians from all over the world, arts and crafts workshops, food bazaars and even meditation and wellness workshops. 

Don’t miss the chance to try Sarawak’s signature dishes, including Sarawak Laksa, a spicy coconut milk based noodle soup that Anthony Bourdain famously described as “the breakfast of the gods” and kek lapis, a brightly coloured layer cake. 

Most trips to Sarawak start from the state capital Kuching – for a comfortable stay head to The Ranee, a boutique hotel on Kuching’s waterfront that was rebuilt from two 19th century shophouses.  

Hunza Valley, Pakistan

One of the best places to visit in Asia in 2022 is undoubtedly the majestic, peaceful, and jaw-droppingly beautiful Hunza Valley. 

This large and remote valley (which is also a district) is in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan territory and is filled with friendly, welcoming people and landscapes that seem too good to be true.

I’ve spent months in this region and have found that there’s always more to explore. One thing you absolutely MUST do while in traveling Hunza is visit the remote Shimshal Valley , and check out the insane sunset view from Eagle’s Nest viewpoint in the village of Duikar.

The best place to eat in Hunza isn’t exactly what you’d expect, but it’s truly one of the best meals I’ve ever had in my life, not just in Asia. 

The Yak Grill in Passu (home to the famous mountains known as the Passu Cones) cooks with yak and makes the best burgers ever, but they also have the best veggie options in the region too.  Backpackers will love staying at the Passu Cathedral Inn in a traditional style room in Passu while travelers with more room in their budgets should definitely check out Mountain Story in Ali Abad.

Penang, Malaysia

Penang island on the northwestern side of peninsular Malaysia really is an unmissable place to visit in Asia. Not only its capital George Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008 and offers one of Asia’s most famous street art trails, plenty of charming boutique accommodation, and many hip cafes and bistros. Also 833-metres-high  Penang Hill   — once the first Hill Station opened in Malaya by the British colonizers — and the cluster of peaks that surround it just earned the title of UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in September 2021, and welcome keen hikers and nature lovers to walk kilometers of jungle paths thriving with rare animals like the Dusky Lef Monkey, Sunda Colugo and Slow Loris.

If you can’t get enough of nature, the Penang National Park, the country’s smallest, is perched on the island’s northwestern corner and has a few nice beaches, the most popular of which are Monkey Beach and Kerachut Beach.

George Town is certainly the place to go and stay for any first-timers: the Lebuh Chulia- Beach Street area brims with culture, street food, and great hotels. Try T

Phong Nha-Ke Bang, Vietnam

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park can be found in the beautiful mountains of Central Vietnam. It’s a hidden gem, not yet on the main Vietnam tourist trail. The scenery is stunning and within the National Park is the largest limestone cave system in the world. Phong Nha-Ke Bang has UNESCO world heritage status and a growing reputation as an adventure seekers paradise. You can join a caving expedition to a number of caves within the National Park including Hang Son Doong, the world’s largest cave. 

But you don’t have to be especially adventurous to enjoy visiting. The Phong Nha Cave is easy to access and it’s amazing! To reach the cave you take a scenic half-hour boat trip along the lovely Son River, then your boatman or woman will row you quietly through the cave. It’s a magical experience! The stalactites and stalagmites inside are lit up and their reflections shimmer in the still water. Dark Cave is also easy to visit and will astound you with its phenomenal size. Hiking, kayaking, and swimming are also popular in the area.

The Lakehouse is a great place to stay in Phong Nha. It has a convenient onsite restaurant and spacious bungalows right on the lake a few kilometres outside town.

Halong Bay, Vietnam

Halong Bay is one of the most popular places to visit in South East Asia. It’s a place of exceptional natural beauty and a UNESCO World Heritage National Park off the coast of northern Vietnam.  Halong Bay is scattered with thousands of tiny, forested islands. Sheer limestone cliffs fall into the calm, emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. The scenery is stunning! Most of the islands are uninhabited and covered with dense jungle so the best way to see Halong Bay is by boat. You can sail on a traditional Chinese junk with colored sails and wooden decks.

On an overnight cruise, you’ll watch the sunrise and set over lovely Halong Bay, hike to some incredible lookout points, and visit limestone caves. Some cruises include kayaking, swimming, Tai Chi, and cooking classes. An overnight cruise is enough to see Halong Bay but you can easily spend several days exploring nearby BaiTu Long Bay and Cat Ba Island. Most cruise packages provide meals, accommodation, and transfers from your hotel in Hanoi to the boat. And there are lots of cruises to choose from. I sailed with “La Fairy Sails”.Cruising on Halong Bay is one of the best experiences in Asia and a highlight of a trip to Vietnam.

Phuket, Thailand

Known for its stunning beaches and incredible nightlife, Phuket, Thailand should be on your list of places to visit in Asia in 2022.  Situated in the Andaman Sea, Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and one of the most famous.  Explore the northern parts of the island if you are seeking tranquil beaches or head to the south of the island if you are looking for more popular tourist attractions. Stay in Phuket for a few days or consider spending 7 days exploring the best of Phuket and southern Thailand.

From wandering the streets of Old Town to exploring the Naka Night Market, there is something in Phuket for everyone.  If you are shopping at any of the local markets, don’t forget to barter!  Take a tuk-tuk or a taxi to visit the Big Buddha in Karon and then check out Karon Beach.

Consider staying in Patong, which is close to the nightlife and provides a great home base to explore the rest of the island.  The Deevana Plaza Phuket is a four star hotel centrally located in Patong that features an incredible pool with a pool bar and a spa that offers amazing Thai massages! 

Coordinate with your hotel to arrange a taxi to take you to Wassa Homemade for a delicious meal.  Wassa Homemade is located at the top of a very steep hill and offers incredible views of Patong.  The restaurant serves tasty Thai dishes, smoothies and drinks. Plan to go around sunset so that you can watch the sunset of the coast of the island.

Tokyo, Japan

Japan is a mix of old traditions passed down generations, combined with cutting-edge modernization in every aspect of life, making it the perfect playground for travelers like me. No other country in the world combines this philosophy like Tokyo.

There are so many things to do in Tokyo that it can be overwhelming! From the Tokyo Tower that lights up the skyline to the unique vending machines around the city, big and small Tokyo entertains every visitor. A combination of old and new contrasts in the city as well. Senso-ji Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple. When visiting you can see the skyscrapers of the city not too far away. Be sure to discover some of the best places to eat in Tokyo for any budget!

For a more modern vibe, visit Akihabara – a geek’s paradise! From ground to the sky is covered in bright lights – trying to get you to come in for food, video games, arcades, or shopping! Go-kart your way through the city or enjoy taking in the sights and smells through walking. Public transportation is super easy to use as well. No matter what you decide to do in Tokyo, you’ll be glad you visited.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto was my favorite city to visit in Japan – the history of the city radiates through every street, around every corner. I was excited to visit the “Instagrammable” places like the Aaryshiama Bamboo Forest (not really a forest, more like a lane) and the Fushimi Inari Shrine (which once you make it past the crowds at the entrance trying to take the perfect photo, you’ll actually be able to appreciate the shrine for its incredible beauty. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes – there are over 10,000 Inari shrines on the mountain. We got to this viewing point about 2/3 up the mountain just in time for sunset. It just goes to show that there is more to a city than a pretty picture. There are in fact plenty of things to do in Kyoto other than these two big places.

There are over 1,500 temples in the city of Kyoto, literally on every corner. Don’t be afraid to go down alleys to explore. To get around the city easily, you can rent a bike. There are bike paths throughout the city. Chances are you’ll see geishas and geishas-in-training in the city. Please be sure to ask before taking pictures of them, it’s a sign of respect. We also saw a lot of people renting kimonos for photos throughout the city. It’s seen as an appreciation for the culture, not appropriation (I didn’t feel comfortable with it still).

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is one of the most vibrant cities in Asia with a fascinating, rich culture, and a huge variety of activities for every age. 

To dive deeper into the country’s culture, visit the Grand Palace and the nearby Wat Pho, two of the most beautiful decorated temple complexes with massive Buddha statues. Another unique attraction you can’t miss is the floating markets. There are a couple to choose from but the most colorful one is the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. No matter if you are interested in purchasing a souvenir or want to eat your way through the city, you will be in the right place.

Talking about food, you can’t go wrong with all the delicious street food options. A fantastic area to try classic Thai food like Pad Thai or more exotic dishes like scorpions can be found in Chinatown. If you are looking for a more upscale (but still very affordable) experience, head to a rooftop restaurant and bar. For the most stunning views of Thailand’s capital, check out View Bangkok.

After a day full of unforgettable experiences, you don’t want to travel far to get your good night’s rest. The Khao San area is right in the heart of the city and is most popular for its street food markets and nightlife. Here you can find great cheap hostels, but also affordable, charming hotels like the Villa Phra Sumen Bangkok or the Old Capital Bike Inn .

Kho Phi Phi, Thailand

Kho Phi Phi (Phi Phi islands) is a group of Islands in Thailand, not far from Phuket. It can be easily reached by ferry. Like many destinations in South East Asia they cater well to backpackers. People speak English, there are many places where you can do your laundry and the tropical climate combined with palm trees and turquoise oceans makes for a great beach vacation spot.

Most tourists probably come to Phi Phi for nightlife. The beach is lined with clubs, bars and pubs. You can find everything from Thai boxing bars to shisha bars to dancing on the beach with live DJs. 

During the day it is a snorkeling and scuba diving paradise. You can see sea stars, blue sea stars, slugs, lobsters, clown fish (Nemo!), butterflyfish, and oh so many colorful species of fish and corals. 

For the best views of car free Kho Phi Phi, take the hike to the viewpoints. Bring plenty of water and don’t be shy on the sunscreen that day. There are several viewpoints along the trail, most visitors just go to the first or second one. For more details read about how to spend  day away from the crowds on Kho Phi Phi .

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Known as the gateway to Cambodia’s famed Angkor Wat temple complex, Siem Reap is the quintessential Southeast Asian town. Of course, the most popular thing to do in the area is to visit the famed temple ruins themselves. Hire a private tuk tuk driver and spend a couple of days channeling your inner Tomb Raider and whizzing from temple to temple. In addition to Angkor Wat itself, don’t miss Ta Prohm, Bayon and Beng Malea. Beng Malea is about 60 kilometers from Siem Reap and is very popular (for good reason). Visit around noon when most of the tour buses head back to town.

As for dining, there are tons of great options in and around Pub Street (both western and traditional Cambodian). For something truly special, make a reservation at  SPOONS , a restaurant serving upscale Cambodian dishes that doubles as a training site for local hospitality students. After dinner, stop at one of the many streetside spas for a foot massage before calling it a night. If you fall in the budget or slackpacking category, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better lodging option than  Lub D , but if you’re looking for something more luxury, consider  Jaya House River Park  or  Mulberry Hotel .

Sagada, Philippines

Sagada is a little town 6 hours north of Manila in Mountain Province.The town is quite small and everything is quite close to each other, so it is easy to move from one place to another, even with backpacks, if you didn’t book accommodation in advance.

Isabelo’s Inn and Cafe is an excellent place to stay. Enjoy their complimentary breakfast and free wifi. The Hanging Coffins in Echo Valley and the Church of St Mary the Virgin are within easy walking distance.

The Echo Valley, a picturesque place of century-old coffins and beautiful limestone cliffs, got its name from the echoes created when one shouts towards the cliffs, is a good introductory walk to Sagada, and a must for anyone visiting the town for the first time. It is a nice walk taking in some pleasant scenery, including, of course, the famous hanging coffins, Sagada’s unusual burial tradition.

Follow this by exploring a nearby Cave and Underground River. The “subterranean river” can be followed for around 100 metres through the cave before it exits. If you choose to explore, make sure you have a torch. Be ready to get wet as you need to wade through water in places.

If you’re looking for a place to eat with good food and beautiful views, a walkout to Gaia Cafe and Crafts , a vegetarian restaurant, near the famous Sumaging Cave, which you can explore before or after your meal, is really recommended.

Tagaytay, Philippines

If you have  2 weeks in the Philippines  but don’t want to spend a day in Manila, you can head to Tagaytay instead, which is 2 hours south of the capital Manila. It’s known for its cooler temperature, the misty atmosphere from constant fog, and the world’s smallest active Volcano.

When you see Taal Volcano, no one would even guess that it’s a volcano at all. The island is surrounded by a mixture of fresh and salt water, and the flat surface and the hidden crate make the spot look like a flattened island. Before it erupted in 2020 and 2021, visitors can trek the crater as a day trip. At the moment, travellers can only sign up for a boat tour that goes around the volcano instead of setting foot on its ground.

Apart from Taal, Tagaytay is one of the few places near Metro Manila where the city is covered in pine trees and open areas. Visit Picnic Grove where you can enjoy a view of the volcano for just a $1 entrance fee, and pay extra for rope cycling and riding the ferries wheel. You can also head to the amusement park called Skyranch known for ziplining, incredible views of Taal, and plenty of rides for children and those young at heart.

Finally, you cannot leave Tagaytay without dining at a local restaurant and trying out the native dish Bulalo. It’s a beef soup cooked with vegetables and eaten with rice. 

You can get here by taking a bus from PITX bus station with a bus sign “Tagaytay/Olivarez/Mendez”. The ticket cost is between $2-$3 depending on the bus company. The bus goes every once every hour from 4 AM to 6 AM and 9 PM to 11 PM, but every 30 minutes from 7 AM to 8 PM.

Taipei, Taiwan

Brimming with history and bustling with creative energy, Taipei, Taiwan’s capital city, is a dream destination in Asia. Now is the perfect time to go: Taipei recently made it onto Lonely Planet’s ‘Top 10 Cities to Visit in 2022’ list, a sure sign of its popularity for the year to come.

Taipei is efficient, easy to navigate, and budget-friendly, making it suitable for travelers of all types. With world-class museums, pedestrian shopping precincts, a legendary street food scene and rugged nature right on its doorstep, there is no shortage of things to keep you busy.

Start by visiting a few of Taipei’s major landmarks: The Kai-shek Memorial Hall, National Palace Museum and Lungshan Temple, before walking the streets of Zhongzheng and Ximen districts to take in the two sides of the city, old and new. Ride the underground to Beitou to soak in the natural thermal hot springs, or take a side trip to the iconic Jiufen Old Street. For something different,  Keelung City is an alternative day trip from Taipei  and boasts a beautiful harbor and legendary food market.

Come sundown, it’s time to don your comfy pants and hit the Taipei night markets. Raohe, Shi Lin, and Ximending are a popular trio, each with their own street food delicacies: Stinky tofu, fried chicken, and bao buns.

If eating is your number one priority (understandable),  Amba Taipei Ximending  is conveniently located near one of the best night markets and within walking distance from some of the city’s best restaurants.

Kampong Glam, Singapore

One of the best places to visit in Asia in 2022 must be Singapore. Singapore is the perfect destination for anyone who loves architecture and history,  a mash of old-time charm with an ultra-modern urban scene, great food, and a mix of cultures. One of our favorite neighborhoods in Singapore  is the flamboyant Kampong Glam.

Kampong Glam is situated not far from the city center but it has a totally different vibe. Start your day in Kampong Glam by visiting the majestic Masjid Sultan whose golden dome is one of the symbols of this area. There are many souvenirs and carpet shops in the vicinity of the mosque, as well as small cafes and restaurants.

Another fun thing to do is check some of the incredible street art in Kampong Glam. Some of our favorite murals can be found at Sultan Arts Village, a small compound with some galleries and shops but there are many hidden gems in the form of street art all around Kampong Glam, including at the trendy Haji Lane. Haji Lane is another favorite spot in Kampong Glam. You’ll find here beautiful murals, great restaurants and bars, fashionable boutiques and unique shops. Make sure to stop at Limaa café for a healthy breakfast or lunch. They serve beautiful and delicious smoothie bowls, sandwiches, homemade pasta, and more. 

Luang Prabang, Laos

If offbeat destinations are something that you have in mind, Luang Prabang, Laos must catch your eye. I am surprised that it does not feature in most people’s lists but I highly recommend giving it a chance, also because it thrives on sustainability.

Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Town and has everything to make a great vacation. Luang Prabang attractions include adventure sports, spiritual tourism, culture, food, and nature tourism. The town has many temples that you must visit. Being the center of Buddhism, the Buddhist monks participate in an alms giving ceremony, wherein they receive their daily food from the locals who line up every day. It is a culturally astounding experience.

A few kilometers away lies one of the most beautiful waterfalls of the country. Kuang SI Waterfalls are aqua coloured waterfalls that provide a refreshing relief as visitors can swim in the pools, trek to the top of the waterfall, hang out at the falls, or visit the bear rescue centre. 

Like all Asian countries, one of the must-do things includes a stroll in the Luang Prabang night market . The market consists of local artisans selling souvenirs, handicrafts, tie & dye fabrics, Laotian coffee, and alcohol. While on the stroll, a healthy, delicious, and soul-satisfying plate of freshly-cooked and piping-hot coconut pancakes served on a banana-leaf plate is the answer to the much-required sugar rush after shopping through Luang Prabang Night Market.

Luang Prabang has great options for stay and most hotels and resorts follow sustainable practices. My recommendation would be The Luang Say Residence, a property that has French influence and charm.

Shanghai, China

Shanghai – China’s most populated city where east meets west and skyscrapers reach the clouds. As China looks towards a 2022 travel boom, kickstarted by hosting the Winter Olympics in February, Shanghai will once again see its streets filled with tourists from all around the world. 

No trip to this sprawling city should be complete without trying the Shanghai speciality of xiaolongbao. These steamed dumplings are typically filled with crab and/or pork soup, which when eaten provide an explosion of flavour! A great place – popular with locals – to get your hands on xiaolongbao is Jia Jia Tang Bao, located just north of People’s Park. This small eatery shuts when it’s sold out for the day, so go early to avoid missing out!

Other must-visit attractions include The Bund – for breath-taking views of the skyscrapers in the Lujiazui district – as well as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, for 360-degree views of the city and the unique glass floor viewing platform. For more cultural activities, pay a visit to Jade Buddha Temple and Jing’an Temple. For more ideas, read this  Shanghai 5-day itinerary .

Be sure to stay in the heart of the city to experience everything Shanghai has to offer – the Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World is conveniently located next to People’s Park and the pedestrianized Nanjing Road shopping street.

Chengdu, China

Chengdu is a fantastic city to visit in China. While most famous for its pandas and spicy cuisine, Chengdu offers visitors so much more.

After seeing the cute pandas (of course, this is a must), wander around Jinli Ancient Street or Kuan Zhai Alley. These picturesque pedestrian-only areas are chockablock with street food stalls, souvenir shops, Sichuan opera venues,  and restored wooden buildings.

The Wuhou Temple, at the entrance to Jinli Street, is one of the most beautiful places in the city. You can spend a few hours here wandering between the winding red walls that will lead you to bonsai gardens, temples and shrines.

Relaxing at a teahouse is another highlight of visiting Chengdu. The teahouses in People’s Park are a popular place to spend an hour or two to relax, drink tea and even get your ears cleaned or a vigorous shoulder massage.

The   food in Chengdu  alone is a reason to visit. Sichuan cuisine is the spiciest but also the most popular in all of China.  Spicy hotpot is something that you absolutely must eat when you’re in Chengdu. The cheap and colourful Ma lù biān biān restaurant (吗路边边) is a great place to dip into the hotpot for first-timers.

Tianfu Square is the best area for tourists as it’s central with excellent public transportation. The Lavande Hotel is a solid mid-range option with an ideal location. 

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

While Mongolia should always be on traveler’s bucket lists, it’s especially true for 2023. The country itself has plenty to offer in terms of diverse landscapes, nomads, and animal encounters, but it’s the capital city, Ulaanbaatar, that’s gaining more recognition recently as one of the  best places to visit in Mongolia .

Travelers looking for a peaceful escape in (and near) the city will enjoy listening to the morning chants at  Gandantegchinlen Monastery  or making the day trip to see the stone carvings at  Aglag Monastery , which also happens to be one of the most beautiful, scenic drives from Ulaanbaatar.

While the world’s largest equestrian statue also lies 1.5 hours by car from Ulaanbaatar in  Terelj National Park , the city’s most famous khan can also be seen guarding the Parliament Building in  Sukhbaatar Square .

The newly opened  Chinggis Khan Museum  isn’t to be missed either with eight floors of exhibitions. The  National Museum ,  Zanabazar Fine Arts Museum , and  Mongolian National Modern Art Gallery  round out some of the best museums in the city.

Finally, at the end of a long day of exploring, pulling up a stool at the bar at La Rosa or Bitsy & Co., or grabbing a bite to eat on the outside patio at Veranda, round out the  best things to do in Ulaanbaatar , one of 2023’s dream destinations in Asia.

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I always kick myself for not visiting Penang when I was in Malaysia (twice…). I’ve heard such amazing things about the culinary scene there!

Great roundup posts, now I have so many ideas for travel destinations in 2022. And I agree with you too, Japan is a truly wonderful country to visit.

I haven’t been to any Asian destinations before, so I really loved reading about these places! There are so many beautiful places to explore.

Wow, I want to go to all of these! What a great list. Thank you for sharing all this wonderful information!

So many places I have yet to explore. Vietnam is currently on the top of my bucket list!

I’d love to visit Vietnam! It looks so beautiful!

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20 Best Places To Visit In Asia In September (2024)

Last Updated on June 12, 2024 by Nicole

September is a great time to visit many places in Asia. The busy summer season has passed and the blistering hot weather found in most Asian destinations has started to cool. So where should you go for a September vacation in Asia? Here are 20 best places to visit in Asia in September that include beautiful tropical beaches, exciting big and small cities, breathtaking mountains and countrysides, and charming small towns.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.

Best September Holidays In Asia

Here are some of the best destinations in Asia for a September getaway. I include cities, towns, natural wonders, and beaches all over Asia.

I supply the best things to do in each destination, as well as how best to get there. In addition, I let you know the expected weather so you can pack properly and arrive prepared.

If there is a fantastic hotel or other  accommodation  available for this September trip in Asia, it will be included, as well as any remarkable special annual events or festivals.

South Korea, Seoul

Seoul is the capital city of South Korea and represents a unique combination of modernism blended seamlessly with culture and family traditions. As the largest city in all of Korea, Seoul can be an assault on the senses but in between the chaos, there is a structured way of living that can only be felt once you’ve experienced it for yourself. 

Begin your trip with an evening visit to Hongdae, Seoul’s liveliest neighbourhood famous for its nightlife and bright lights. 

Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village are all within walking distance from one another and represent the best cultural highlights in the centre of Seoul.

Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. Changdeokgung Palace is set in an enormous public garden and a visual delight. Bukchon Hanok Village is a residential neighborhood with many restored traditional Korean houses, called hanok. 

Gwangjang market is nearby and is the best place to sample some traditional, Korean street food – Gohyang Kalguksu (Knife-cut noodles) are perhaps the most popular dish at the market. 

Of course, no visit to Seoul is complete without a trip to the infamous Demilitarised Zone between North Korea and South Korea. You are only permitted to visit this site through an organised tour and you must have your passport on you at all times. You will get the chance to look through a telescope from the Dora Observatory and catch a brief glimpse of North Koreans tending their farms and driving around on old mopeds. 

Another reason to visit Seoul in September is that it’s the month when the annual Hanseong Baekje Cultural Festival takes place. The event features a number of folk performances, musicals and family concerts, and in true Korean style, an abundance of colour! 

With a combination of fascinating culture, a delicious food scene and an unprecedented skyline, Seoul is unquestionably one of the best places to visit in Asia in September.

September marks the start of fall in South Korea and this means temperatures lower to an average of between 64°F to 77°F during the day. You can expect around 8 days with some rain and only 6 days with humidity.

Best Way To Reach Destination

Getting to Seoul is relatively straightforward, thanks largely in part to Seoul Incheon Airport. It is useful to know  how to buy a SIM Card in Seoul Incheon Airport  as throughout Seoul you will need to make use of translation and navigation apps – Google Maps famously doesn’t work in South Korea.

From the airport, the City Centre is only an hour away and can be reached via the high-speed KTX train, spacious K-limousine bus or a simple private taxi. 

Best Place To Stay

Ben from Ticket 4 Two Please says, “The best area of the city to base yourself during your stay is Myeongdong. It is the city’s shopping centre and features a nightly street food market.

Hotel28 Myeongdong , a short walk from Myeongdong Station (Line 4), is a wonderful boutique hotel in the centre of the district and best of all, the K-limousine shuttle bus from Seoul Incheon Airport has a stop directly outside the hotel.”

Siargao, Philippines

Siargao Island, nestled in the Philippines near Surigao, is one of Southeast Asia’s premier destinations for both surfers and travelers. 

Known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao boasts world-class waves that attract surf enthusiasts from across the globe. The island offers a lots of surf camps and experienced instructors, making it an ideal spot for both seasoned surfers and and beginner surfers in Siargao.

September is the best time to visit Siargao when Siargao takes center stage with the Siargao National Surfing Cup at Cloud 9. This event has a QS3000 rating and draws the world’s top surfers. In addition, September is shoulder season between the rainy and dry months so there are great hotel deals.

This period also coincides with the island’s largest surfing swell. For advanced surfers seeking the thrill of challenging waves, this is the best time to go.

Beyond surfing, Siargao offers a tri-islands tour to Naked, Daku, and Guyam Islands, which is one of the top experiences.

From Siarga, you can also visit Sohoton Cove, one of the only places in the world where you can swim with stingless jellyfish. 

Tours in Siargao are celebrated at the end with a Philippino “Boodle Fight” buffet lunch, where rice, noodles, fruit, and fresh fish are shaped into pictures and words before being enjoyed by hungry visitors. 

Average highs in September is 88°F. Rainfall is 4.9 inches over 15 days with lots of humidity.

Siargao is easy to get to, with short daily direct flights from Manila and Cebu to Siargao’s Del Carmen IAO airport. Alternatively, budget-conscious travelers can embark on an overnight ferry from Cebu to Surigao, followed by a brief local ferry to reach the island.

Katie from  KatieCafTravel.com  says, “One of the best hotels in Siargao is the Surfing Temple , a boutique hotel popular among surfers.

For those seeking a more luxurious experience, there’s Nay Palad Hideaway , a 5-star beach-front hotel.”

Gobi Desert, Mongolia

There are few places that let you experience the full scale of this planet as well as the Gobi Desert. Characterized by endless wide plains, this vast arid land shared by Mongolia and China is one of the largest deserts in the world. It is a place where one can drive for hours and hours and encounter no one but camels, making it a paradise for introverts. Besides vast steppes, the Gobi is also home to sand dunes, rock formations, canyons, and Buddhist monasteries, and has something in store for everyone.

Much of the country lacks roads, however, the flat grassland is relatively easy to surmount with a 4×4 or even vintage Soviet vans. Since there are no human settlements other than sporadically spread out nomads’ yurts, the preferred way to experience the Great Gobi is on a camping road trip. Whether one wants to tackle the terrain oneself or outsource the navigation part to a local driver, this road trip is suitable for every level of off-road enthusiast. 

The most popular route for Gobi Desert road trips starts in the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar and extends south, making a round through the desert before coming back up northwest to Kharkhorin and then driving straight westward back to Ulaanbaatar.

Some popular stops on the way include the White Stupa rock formations, the Yol Valley canyon, the Khongor sand dunes and flaming cliffs, and the abandoned monastery of Ongi. In total, this route spans across nearly 2000 kilometers and can be covered at a leisurely speed within a week.

However, one must keep in mind that due to the rugged terrain mechanical issues with your vehicle are very common and it may take half a day to get help due to your remoteness.

One must also make sure to stock up on non-perishables before leaving the capital since shops and restaurants are very rare.

One of the most important parts to consider when planning a Gobi road trip is the weather. Characterized by a cold desert climate, sub-zero double digits prevail throughout most of the year, while summer brings along temperatures over 40℃ (100°F) . Hence, one of the best times to plan a road trip across the Gobi Desert is September.

September marks the peak of autumn in Mongolia , when the shrubs that grow throughout the steppe adopt vibrant hues and the grass turns golden. Daytime temperatures are comfortably above 20℃ while nights can get a little chilly below 10℃.

Since rain is scarce throughout the year, one can count on clear skies and impressive views of the Milky Way at night.

Casual attire is sufficient during the day but one should bring some layers and a good jacket for the night (and a warm sleeping bag in case of camping).

If you are open to considering other places around the world, here are some other fantastic destinations that would be great to visit in September:

• 25 Best Places To Visit In USA In September ;
• 23 Best Places To Visit In Europe In September ;
• 24 Best Beach Holidays in Europe In September ;
• 22 Best National Parks To Visit In Europe In September ; and
• 20 Best Places To Visit In The UK In September .

Jaipur, India

Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is the capital city of the state of Rajasthan in India . Steeped with history, it is one of the few cities in India that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Part of the Golden triangle tourist circuit, it is almost always filled with visitors from across the world.

It is one of the best cities in Asia to visit in September as it has less crowds. This is when the monsoons are receding and the weather is pleasant enough to allow you to explore its numerous heritage sites.

Start your tour with the epic hill fort in Amer from where the royal family first ruled. It is filled with interesting activities like a walk through its secret tunnels to its protector fort – Jaigarh. After this place was abandoned, the new and current pink city emerged around the City Palace in Jaipur.  

You can embark on a  royal City Palace tour  that takes you right to the palace where the royal family resides to date. The tour can be combined with a walk through the functional sundials of Jantar Mantar and the unusual Hawa Mahal (palace of winds).

Jaipur is not just about heritage monuments. You should go one evening and explore the bustling markets. From bedcovers to Pashmina shawls and Bandhini attires, there is plenty to savour and take home. Don’t miss out on the traditional blue pottery that is still made by hand and the rich Kundan jewelry that goes with almost any outfit.

There are several authentic Jaipur restaurants where you can sample the local Rajasthani fare like Dal-Baati Churma, Laal Maas, Gatte ki Sabzi and Bajra roti. In fact, September is pleasant enough for you to try the open-air dining at Chokhi Dhani – which is designed like a typical hamlet. Besides the food, you can indulge in their fun cultural activities like getting Henna on your hands or enjoying the traditional folk dance and music.

Average high is 92 degree Fahrenheit with only a few days with some rain. There is 30% less humidity than the summer months.

Jaipur international airport makes it very easy to get into the city. It is only 10 miles from the city center and will only take 15 minutes.

Ami from Thrilling Travel says, “There are dozens of heritage havelis (traditional Rajasthani homes) that have been converted into stays.

Alternatively, you can choose from a luxury hotel like ITC Rajputana to mid-priced ones like Hotel Jaipur Heritage .

There are several hostels and budget ones too. The best to stay would be around Bani Park – which is almost central to all the markets and attractions in Jaipur.”

We spent 14 days exploring Jaipur, Delhi, Agra, and Amristar. We also did an astonishing tiger safari in Rathambore National Park. It was all extraordinary. For more information, please see An Astonishing 14 Day Itinerary in The Golden Triangle .

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is a gorgeous city with deep ties to its past that can be seen in its historical landmarks, delicately preserved Unesco World Heritage Sites, and its rich culture. It’s one of the best September vacation destinations in Asia because the peak summer crowds have started to dwindle down. This is a game changer for many of Kyoto’s biggest attractions, especially if you are planning on doing  Kyoto in a day . 

If you’re short on time, you simply can’t miss the Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine and the historical district of Higashiyama.

The first is the iconic orange Torii gates that line the mountain pathway leading up to the shrine. Along the way, you’ll come across different smaller shrines, the local kitties, and gorgeous views of Kyoto and the entirety of Fushimi Inari. 

Meanwhile, venturing into the Higashiyama District will show you a different part of Kyoto’s rich culture. As you walk through it, you’ll come across the Unesco World Heritage Site buildings and be able to stop at the numerous cafes and shops that line the streets. Afterward, head along to Yasaka shrine and the nearby Maruyama Park to relax and take a moment. 

When you’re done, the last spot you will want to go to is Kiyomizu Dera Temple. If you happen to be visiting mid-September, you might also be able to enjoy the Seiryu-E festival, also known as the blue dragon festival, that takes place at Kiyomizu Dera temple. 

Located in the Kansai region of Japan, Kyoto experiences relatively good weather during September, with highs of 89F and lows of 67F, with around 10 days with some rainfall. A refreshing contrast from the normal blistering summers in Japan, and instead replaced with subtle breezes and rain. 

Getting to Kyoto is fairly easy since the region has its own airport, Kansai International Airport. After you arrive, take the Kansai-Airport limousine bus straight to Kyoto Station. It is less than $20USD for a one-way ticket. 

Yesenia from The Sisters Who Voyage says, “When it comes to picking out a place to stay, choosing somewhere in Kyoto’s city center is best since you’ll be close to public transportation.

The  Hotel Granvia Kyoto  is a great option since it’s right next to Kyoto Station and an easy walk from Kyoto Tower and the shopping district.”

Almaty, Kazakhstan

Almaty, set in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains in southern Kazakhstan, makes for an excellent September holiday in Asia. With its tidy pedestrian streets, cozy wine bars and sunny cafe-filled lanes, travellers could be forgiven for mistaking Almaty for a European capital. 

There are many wonderful things to do in Almaty . Panfilv Park is a beautiful park located close to the city centre. It’s a lovely city refuge with lots of green spaces and benches that are perfect for watching the world go by. 

Stop by Arasan Baths, a traditional bathing complex and an excellent place to relax. And be sure to make a trip out to Big Almaty Lake. Located about 15 miles (25 kilometres) outside of the city, this stunning lake is surrounded by mountains and offers hiking trails and scenic views.

September is a great time to visit Almaty, particularly if you prefer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. With average highs sitting at a pleasant 75°F and lows around 50°F, with practically no rain, you can enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking. Additionally, the autumn colours in the surrounding mountains are particularly beautiful at this time of the year.

Almaty is easily accessible by air, train, and bus from many major cities in Kazakhstan and other neighbouring countries. 

The Almaty International Airport (ALA) is the largest airport in Kazakhstan and is serviced by several major airlines. There are direct flights to Almaty from many cities in Europe , Asia, and the Middle East.

Almaty also has a major railway station that connects it to other cities in Kazakhstan and neighbouring countries. There are several trains that run daily between Almaty and Astana, the capital city of Kazakhstan, as well as other cities such as Shymkent, Karaganda, and Aktobe. You can also take a train from Almaty to Urumqi in China, Tashkent in Uzbekistan and even all the way to Moscow.

Dotti from Travel Oasis says, “Almaty has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Evergreen Apart is a comfortable and well-equipped apartment in a great neighbourhood.”

Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi is located in the north, and the political and cultural capital of Vietnam. It is one of the best places in Southeast Asia to visit in September. The peak season to visit Hanoi is either during spring (February to April) or autumn (October to November). September lies in the shoulder season when the heavy rains have ended and the weather is not too hot.

Hanoi has plenty of cultural and religious sites to visit. One of the top attractions in the city is Ho Chi Minh Palace, built for Vietnam’s greatest political leader.

Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter is a wonderful place to get a unique local feel of the city. You can sample fantastic street food and egg coffee in one of the local cafes here.

Another charming neighbourhood to visit is the French Quarter for old colonial buildings. The Opera House, just opposite the Metropole Hotel is worth visiting. This is the largest theatre in all of Vietnam. You should also visit the Temple of Literature, the first university in Vietnam.

Hanoi weather in September is mild, with average daily temperatures ranging from 75 °F (24 °C) to 88 °F (31°C). Average rainfall is around 6 inches over 17 days. Make sure you pack properly for Vietnam .

Hanoi has an international airport and is well connected locally to Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, as well as to international cities.

Shweta from Zest In A Tote says, “We stayed at the Sheraton Hotel . It is a luxurious hotel that features picturesque views of the West Lake, and is within a 10-minute drive of downtown Hanoi and the Hoan Kiem Lake.

September is outside the peak season so the hotel availability and prices should be both decent.”

Li River, China

Guilin is one of the loveliest September destinations to visit in Asia, as the exhausting heat of the Chinese summer lifts and the cooler days of autumn are ushered gently in.

In September, the streets are filled with the sweet fragrance of Osmanthus – the city’s favourite flower. Smaller and less frenetic than other popular tourist cities like Beijing and Shanghai, Guilin is a great place to wander, buy paintings direct from local artists and explore local markets at a slower pace.  

But, most visitors flock to Guilin to be close to the beautiful Li River that weaves through the dramatic karst mountains.

The best way to experience the other-worldliness of this spectacular scenery is on a one day  Li River cruise from Guilin  to the town of Yangshuo. Each turn in the river presents fresh landscapes, while water buffalo graze at the water’s edge and local fisherman putter along in traditional small boats.   

Multiple cruise boats (up to 50 a day) depart from the cruise port and the crowds can be immense. It’s wise to pre-book and to travel with a Chinese guide who can navigate through the masses and translate the all-Chinese commentary on the cruise boats. A great guide will also suggest you buy sweet local peaches for the trip from the vendors at the port! 

While 3-star cruises are available, the best experience is on the luxury 4-star cruise boats, where the upper decks have comfortable seats, and the food is far superior to the fare on other boats.  

On arrival in Yangshuo it’s easy to travel back to Guilin. Alternatively, linger a while and try out the local delicacy – beer fish. It’s delicious!!  

Average highs in September are 85°F and average lows are 71°F. There is very little rain and 30% less humidity than in the summer months.

Guilin is in southern China and has an international airport that is well connected to China’s major cities.

Coralie from Grey Globetrotters says, “Stay in the Aroma Tea House in Guilin – a beautiful boutique hotel, close to the lake, with exceptional views from the 5 th  floor restaurant and traditional-styled guest rooms. It’s gorgeous and has the friendliest service.”

Maafushi, Maldives

Maldives is known for its crystal-clear blue waters, overwater bungalows, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. It consists of 26 atolls and more than 1000 islands which comprise private island resorts and local islands.

The Maldives is known for its over the water bungalow resorts which are the most expensive accommodation! But if you want to visit  Maldives on budget , opt for visiting the local islands of Maldives.

One of such famous local island is Maafushi. The island is located 30 mins from Male and offers local cultural experiences.

However, there are restrictions. It is a Muslim country so alcohol is not permitted on the local islands and you have to dress modestly when not at the designated Bikini beach.

At Maafushi, you can indulge in water sports, snorkelling, and scuba diving. You can take a boat tour for dolphin watching and opt for a sand bank visit in the middle of the sea!

You can devour local Maldivian food and interact with locals. You can also take a ferry ride to nearby Fulidhoo island or Gulhi Island.

If you want to experience nearby resorts, many offer you the option to visit for a day. This way you can experience both worlds.

Maldives is one of the best September tropical beach escapes in Asia. The temperature sits at 82°F with around 6 inches of rain over 15 days.

Maldives is well connected with the world and almost all major airlines fly to its capital Male International airport.

From Male, you can take a ferry to the local islands which costs only a few dollars depending on the distance. If you are staying at expensive resorts, they will arrange the speedboat or seaplane transfer as per your arrival schedule.

Mayuri from fernwehrahee.com says, “ Kaani Grand Seaview and Kaani Beach Hotel are good options for maafushi. They are well priced, beautifully appointed and on the beach.”

Ladakh, India

Located high up in the Tibetan Plateau in the northernmost region of India is the territory of  Ladakh . It might just be one of the most picturesque locations in India, even more so in September as the willow and poplar trees lining most of this Himalayan region turn different shades of yellow, golden and brown as autumn falls.

Willow and poplar are two of the only few trees found around the otherwise naked and barren mountains of Ladakh due to their altitude which ranges from 3,500 to 4,500 meters (11,400 feet – 14,700 feet) above sea level. In fact, many mountain passes and peaks go well above 7000 meters (23,000 feet).

This incredible height makes Ladakh a sought-after destination for mountain sports like high-altitude trekking, ice climbing, skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing and bouldering.

Ladakh is also home to some unique wildlife including the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan brown bear, Himalayan marmot and the Kiang or the Tibetan wild ass.

Ladakh is also known for its magnificent Buddhist monasteries and high-altitude lakes like Pangong Tso (the world’s highest saltwater lake), Tso Kar and Tso Moriri.

September is one of the best times to visit Ladakh mostly because the crowds start waning and the temperatures start dipping. It is quite warm, sunny and comfortable during the days.

In addition, September is the month of the Ladakh Festival — a week-long cultural fair organized to give tourists a glimpse into the unique culture of the people of Ladakh.

It is quite warm, sunny and comfortable during the days with a maximum of 70 F. Evening to early morning can be quite chilly, though with the temperature dropping to 40F. There is practically no rain or humidity.

The only airport in Ladakh is the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in the capital city of Leh which has direct flights from most major cities in India.

Renting motorbikes and scooters is a popular way to get around Ladakh. However, buses are also very frequent and well-connected throughout the territory.

Avantika from Wayward Wayfarer says, “The Grand Dragon Ladakh is a great luxury hotel in Leh. It overlooks the famous Cold Desert and the surrounding mountains, and is near the market.”

Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui is a tropical island located in the Gulf of Thailand. Just 21 miles (35km) off the mainland town of Surat Thani, it is the second-largest island in the country and is approximately 435 miles (700km) south of Bangkok. 

The island is known for its stunning beaches, lush jungle, and vibrant nightlife. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and delicious food. 

The most popular things to do on Koh Samui usually involve the ocean. Exploring the nearby Ang Thong Marine Park is top of the list. This pristine area is made up of 42 islands and is the perfect day trip with snorkelling and deserted beach swims. There are dozens of day trips to choose from so its easy to find one to fit your interest and budget. 

Next head into the hills and enjoy the cool green jungle of the island’s interior. Discover waterfalls and temples before making your way to one of the mountain top bars like Jungle Club or The Roof. 

Another favourite activity is a  beach crawl,  much like a bar crawl this involves visiting as many of the island’s beaches as you can, each one more lovely than the one before and almost all of them featuring small local restaurants and bars serving fresh seafood and ice cold drinks. 

When the sun goes down it’s time to head to one of the island’s many night markets. There are at least nine to choose from ranging from the very tourist driven Fisherman’s Village night market to the much more local option at Lamai Beach. 

In September, the island’s attractions are as enticing as ever, but with far fewer crowds to contend with, amplifying the island’s charm. In addition, this is when you will be able to find deals. Accordingly, it is one of the best beaches in Southeast Asia to visit in September.

September enjoys warm tropical climates with average highs and lows ranging from the mid-80s°F (~29°C)  to the mid-70s°F (~23°C), perfect for beach strolls and water activities.

There will be the occasional tropical rain showers (an average 17 days in September), but the rainy periods are usually confined to the late afternoon or early morning. The rainy season kicks in from October. 

There are two ways to get to Koh Samui and both are relatively easy. The first is to fly directly from Bangkok, Phuket or Chiang Mai. The airport is privately owned by Bangkok Airways so at popular times the prices can be high but they should be reasonable in September. 

You can also choose to arrive via ferry from Surat Thani which takes about 2.5 hours. You can take an overnight train or a budget flight to the mainland airport at Surat Thani. These are usually much cheaper than direct flights.

From the airport or port, you will need to take take a shuttle or taxi to your accommodation. 

Paula from Thailand Awaits says, “I have stayed in four different  beach areas on Samui  and each was quite different.

My favourite, Choengmon Beach located on the northern tip of Koh Samui, is one of the most tranquil and serene beaches on the island. Its’ calm bay with soft white sands and turquoise water are perfect for relaxing. The safe swimming and peaceful atmosphere in the area makes this a popular beach for families so if you are visiting without kids avoid the school vacations. 

For a really memorable vacation try to spring a few nights at the beachfront Kimpton Kitalay Samui . The hotel foyer and public areas feature dark wood and traditional Thai style. The first thing you view upon entering are the lush gardens and pools that seem to stretch from the dining areas to the sand and bring the ocean inside.

Hotel rooms and a variety of pool villas are available. The dining options are great and there are local restaurants along the beachfront when you feel like a change.”

Are you trying to decide between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan? For a detailed breakdown of each island to help you decide, please see Koh Phangan Vs. Koh Samui: Which Island Is Better?

Singapore, Singapore

Singapore is undoubtedly one of the best Asian city breaks in September. This city-state is located at the end of the Malay Peninsula in Southeast Asia. It’s connected to the country of Malaysia via a bridge. 

The great thing about  Singapore  is that there are many fabulous things to do. Gardens by the Bay is a highlight for sure! It’s a stunning futuristic park, full of huge metal ‘supertrees’, incredible conservatories, and plenty of charming gardens.

Singapore Zoo is another hugely popular attraction. Covering an impressive 64 acres (26 hectares), this zoo is home to over 4,000 animals. It is split up into different zones to replicate habitats from across the world. 

As well as the city’s variety of attractions, there are also some great annual events and festivals that take place in September. This includes the F1 World Championship Grand Prix and the World Food Fair. The latter brings together a wide variety of brands and products for you to try! 

In terms of the weather, the climate is very pleasant in September. Singapore encounters highs of between 85-90°F, and average low temperatures of around 78°F. As this city-state is a tropical destination , the climate remains sunny and humid. You can expect an average of 5 inches of rain over 12 days.

To reach Singapore, you can either travel overland from Malaysia or fly to Singapore Changi Airport. It’s a 25-minute drive to the city centre from the airport, and many people choose to get a taxi for convenience. The public buses are a very affordable option, and there are train services too, so there are plenty of transport choices.

A Couple Scalling says, “When it comes to accommodation, prices in Singapore can be costly.  CapsulePod@Aljunied  is one of the most affordable properties and offers capsule pods in a dormitory-style room.

For those who’d prefer a private room, check out  lyf Funan Singapore , which is known for its funky studio units.”

Seoraksan National Park, Korea

Seoraksan National Park is a favorite place in Asia for hiking in September. Located in the northeast corner of South Korea near the town of Sokcho, Seoraksan is popular year round, but especially in the fall as fall colors attract countless visitors. 

Whether you visit for fall colors or summer greenery, the trail from the main entrance passes a massive Buddha and wonderful temple on the way to many hikes.  

Ulsanbawi is a favorite short hike that yields a commanding view of the East Sea and surrounding mountains. The Cheonbuldong Valley continues past Ulsanbawi towards a river valley with waterfalls and beautiful mountains on either side. It is quite popular with hikers looking to dip their feet in some cool waters on an easier trail. 

Avid hikers will want to head to the Gongnyong Ridge aka Dinosaur Ridge. This all day trek tours all the best viewpoints in Seoraksan and is sure to leave you with a good story for a long day on the trails. 

Daecheongbong is the highest peak in Seoraksan and can be accessed after either the Cheonbuldong Valley or Dinosaur Ridge but many choose to start at the Osaek entrance for this peak rather than the main entrance. 

There are countless smaller hikes near the main entrance like Biryong Falls but those looking for an easier day in the Park should start their day with a stop at the  Seoraksan Cable Car  ticket office. This cable car is near the main entrance and brings you to the top of the Gwongeumseong Fortress; an impressive massif 2300 feet (700m) above the main trail offering panoramic views without a grueling hike.

When you’re done hiking the best thing to do is enjoy a traditional Korean jimjilbang. These saunas and bathhouses are quite affordable and often come with a communal sleeping area if you are on a budget.  But if you’re not on a budget, the mineral-fed hot water will soothe your muscles after a long day in the national park.

September in Seoraksan brings evening temperatures in the 40’s Fahrenheit and daytime highs in the 60’s Fahrenheit making it great for a fall hike. Always be prepared for rain (around 8 days with some rainfall) but September is generally part of the dry season making it one of the best times to visit South Korea. There is very little humidity.

Getting to Seoraksan can be tricky if you don’t speak Korean. You’ll want to fly into Seoul and either book a tour or learn enough Korean to navigate public transit. 

There are many English-friendly group tours that depart from Seoul and take you straight to the National Park, especially during peak fall colors. 

A bus ride to Sokcho takes about two hours and from there you can take a local bus or private taxi to Seoraksan National Park.

Michael from Live Travel Teach says, “ Goodstay Smile Resort is a great place to stay on the edge of the park and there are countless other options at the main entrance.”

Sanur, Indonesia (Bali)

If you’re thinking about hitting up Bali in September, Sanur is a great place to base yourself. This laid back coastal town on the south side of the island is void of the hustle and bustle of places like Kuta and Seminyak. Sanur is all about those serene beaches and the laid-back lifestyle. And the best part? September is when the tourist scene chills out after peak season.

Now, the real deal in Sanur is the beach and the promenade along Sanur Beach. We’re talking about a 6-kilometre stretch perfect for a lazy stroll or a bike ride. The view is breathtaking with ocean vibes, local fishing boats, and a glimpse of Mount Agung in the distance. The sunrise is totally unforgettable. Take a stroll or lay your towel out  on the beach,  no matter what, you will be enjoying Sanur.

Along the beach path, you’ve got 5-star hotels, cool restaurants, bars, and local Warungs (that’s Indonesian for small family-owned restaurant businesses). It’s basically a day-long pub crawl on the beach, minus the thumping dance music. So, if you’re into a more mature scene, this is your spot.

For a bit of shopping, hit up Jalan Danu Tamblingan – Sanur’s main street. You’ll find all the Bali goodies you love, from leather goods to local art. Just keep an eye out for those counterfeit products we all tend to snag in Bali.

From May to September, it’s all about the dry season with warm, sunny vibes. September is prime time, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 88°F. There is practically no rain and lots of humidity, perfect for beach activities.

Getting there is a breeze when you fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar, then it’s just a 20-minute jaunt to Sanur. Grab a Bluebird Taxi or arrange a ride with a local driver for around $15-$20 USD.

Mark from Things To Do In Sanur says, “When it comes to places to stay, Sanur’s got options for every budget. Whether you’re into big names like the Intercontinental or chilling in a homestay, there’s something for everyone.

Check out Hotels Jati Sanur for budget vibes, Swiss-Belresort Watu Jimbar for mid-range, and splurge at the Maya Resort and Spa for some luxury feels.”

Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Dedicated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site,  Samarkand  is the second largest city in Uzbekistan and one of the best city escapes in Asia in September. Meaning the stone fort or stone town, the city of Samarkand played an important role in the Silk Route and the city dates back to the 8 th  century.

As there is so much history, the city is home to many historical monuments such as Shah-i-Zinda and Registan Square. The Shah-i-Zinda is a spectacular necropolis housing tombs of many popular figures of the country from different periods. And Registan Square was a gathering place in the 15 th  century, mostly used for public executions.

As the weather is perfect for tourists and the locals during the fall season, there are many events and festivals that take place in the city. In fact, the country celebrates its Independence Day on the 1st of September.

Apart from this, there are weeklong festivals like the biggest music festival of Central Asia named Festival of Sharq Taronalari that starts from the end of August till the beginning of September.

The best time to travel to Samarkand is during the autumn season which lasts between the months of September and November. The weather during September is very pleasant and ranges between 81 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit with no rain or humidity.

The closest international airport to get to Samarkand is around 4 miles (6 kilometres) from the city centre. Samarkand International Airport is the second busiest airport in the country and the airport serves both domestic and international flights.

You can also take the speed trains from the capital city of Tashkent to reach Samarkand. The distance is around 186 miles (300 kilometres) and the journey takes about 4 to 5 hours by train.

Raksa from Solopassport says, “Samarkand is a popular tourist destination in Uzbekistan and has plenty of stay options catering to budget and luxury travelers.

Situated in the city, Zarafshon Parkside Hotel is a beautiful place to stay in a great location. The hotel is in a 19 th  century mansion with luxurious amenities.”

Xiaoliuqiu, Taiwan

Xiaoliuqiu is a little slice of paradise in Asia and a perfect Asian vacation in September. The island goes by many names (Little Liuqiu, Little Okinawa, Lambai Island), but the main thing you need to know is that it is located off the southwestern corner of Taiwan.

Xiaoliuqiu is the only inhabited coral island in the country. It is most famous for its 1000 or so resident giant sea turtles. You can see or snorkel with these gentle creatures from virtually any beach on the island, with or without a guide – just never touch one, as there are hefty fines. You are virtually guaranteed to see them in September.

The island is small enough that you can easily ride a bicycle, electric bike, or scooter (International Driver’s Permit with A class stamp needed for the latter) around it in one day. On the way, you can discover deserted beaches, cute cafés overlooking the sea, deep caves made of coral, Daoist temples, and quiet fishing villages.

So why choose to come here in September? Well, with summer holidays finished, the crowds of domestic tourists will be gone, yet the weather remains idyllic.

Two to three days is generally enough to fully experience this small island. Round out your trip by visiting some of  Taiwan’s other offshore islands , each with its own highlights.

Expect temperatures around 86°F in the daytime and not much cooler at night – so yes, don’t forget your sunscreen! There is around 6 inches of rain over 10 days, and lots of humidity.

Another selling feature of Xiaoliuqiu is that it’s crazy easy to get there. From Taoyuan International Airport near the capital Taipei in the north, you can reach this tropical haven in just over four hours.

Budget 30 minutes to get to Taoyuan High Speed Rail station, 2 hours to whizz down to Zuoying in the far south, an hour on the bus to the ferry terminal in Donggang, and then an hour to reach the island by ferry.  

When you’re at the ferry terminal in Donggang, either on the way in or out, don’t miss the huge Huaqiao Fish Market right beside it. There you can sample ultra-fresh sashimi and other seafoods.

Nick from Taiwan Obsessed says, “I recommend staying at  Ocean Dream  in Xiaoliuqiu. This is a simple guesthouse right by where the ferry terminal. It has harbor and ocean views from the rooms (we even saw a sea turtle right from our balcony!). It also has friendly owners who can arrange snorkeling trips, scooter rentals, and more.”

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Ninh Binh, situated in northern Vietnam, is a province known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It’s often referred to as the “Ha Long Bay on land” due to its resemblance to the iconic limestone karst formations found in the bay.

It is one of the best places to visit in September for an Asian holiday. The month marks a transition from the rainy season to fall.

Taking a  boat tour of Tam Coc  and/or Trang An are the must-do activities in the area. The tours will guide you through limestone cliffs, grottoes (caves) and rice fields, showcasing Ninh Binh’s natural beauty. September’s milder weather accentuates this beauty, making these boat rides both a peaceful and visually stunning experience.

Another highlight is a visit to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. The ancient temples and structures sit amongst picturesque landscapes providing a glimpse into the country’s imperial past. In addition, visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of the largest Buddhist pagodas in Southeast Asia.

For those looking for a little more adventure, cycle through the countryside to see the rural lifestyle. Also, hike to the summit of Mua Cave as the climb rewards you with panoramic views of Ninh Binh’s beautiful countryside.

Ninh Binh offers comfortable temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F. The weather tends to be sunny, but expect some rainfall (around 8 inches over 13 days) and be prepared with a raincoat and umbrella.

For travellers flying into Vietnam, Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) serves as the closest international airport, approximately 62 miles (100 kilometres) from Ninh Binh.

From there, a two to three-hour journey by private transfer, bus, or train offers picturesque views of the Vietnamese countryside en-route to Ninh Binh’s natural wonders.

Due to its proximity to Hanoi, Ninh Binh makes for a popular day tour for travellers seeking natural beauty and historical exploration.

Peta and Jonas of Exit45 Travels say, “During our visit to Ninh Binh, we chose to stay in Tam Coc and use this as our base for exploring the area.

For accommodation, we recommend staying at Lys Homestay which is centrally located in Tam Coc and walking distance to a great range of restaurants and bars. The rooms were large and clean, and included breakfast daily. It was an excellent base for exploring Ninh Binh’s wonders.”

Beijing, China

September is one of the best times to visit Beijing. It offers visitors pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and the opportunity to witness stunning fall foliage.

The famous Great Wall of China spans much of the length of the country, including Beijing. It is surrounded by rolling hills, mountains, and trees on both sides that begin to change to vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and red during the month of September. 

In addition, you’ll find Beijing’s parks and gardens begin to transform with autumn hues.

In September, historical sites like the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven are less crowded than they are during the summer months, which is peak season for tourism. 

Be sure to take a stroll through the hutongs. These traditional, older neighborhood streets known for their narrow streets or alleyways offer an authentic glimpse at real life in Beijing. 

Visit during the Autumn Equinox, and you’ll also get to experience the Mid-Autumn Festival. This celebration is considered one of the most important festivals in China. The festival includes cultural performances, parades, and the opportunity to learn traditional Chinese skills like calligraphy.

You can generally expect cooler weather than the summer months, with average high temperatures in the upper-70s and lows in the low 60s. There is only a few days of rain and humidity. The cooler temperatures also bring better air quality, a huge bonus for travelers with medical conditions like asthma.

Getting to Beijing is easy any time of year, as the city is home to one of the biggest international airports in the world.

Melissa from Parenthood and Passports says, “Book your stay at a hotel in the Wangfujing neighborhood, like Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, which puts you within walking distance to some of the city’s iconic attractions and its famous DongHuaMen Night Market.”

Koh Phangan, Thailand

Koh Phangan is an amazing island in the Gulf of Thailand, off the eastern coast of the Thai mainland. Koh Samui is located right next, like a bigger, more famous “sister”.

Koh Phangan has become known for its Full Moon parties. It’s a unique time of the month when the population of the island shoots up dramatically but it’s mostly focused in the southeast of the island, where the Full Moon party beach can be found.

Outside of that time of the month, it’s a beautiful lush island, which still retains a lot of its greenery (some sources say up to 70% of the island is green), has amazing beaches of all kinds, as well as tourist & digital nomad infrastructure.

There are many yoga retreats centered in the Sri Thanu area, and countless cafés where one can sit all day with your laptop and enjoy a proper cup of coffee.

You can stay on Koh Phangan for weeks as you can go hiking on its many trails, discover local temples, and swim in the ocean to your heart’s content.

September is a great time to  visit Koh Phangan . The rainy season hasn’t started yet, and the main crowds that come in December and January are nowhere to be found. That means it’s easier to find a place to stay and enjoy a more chilled atmosphere.

Regarding temperatures, you can expect as high as 87.8 °F and as low as 78.8 °F. It’s nice and balmy! Like many tropical destinations, you can expect a little bit of rain each day.

The quickest way to get to Koh Phangan is to fly to Koh Samui Airport and take a 30-minute ferry from there.

However, a cheaper route is to fly from Bangkok to Surat Thani on the Thai mainland, which takes around an hour, and then take a 2.5-hour ferry to Koh Phangan. 

Veronika from Travel Geekery says, “You can stay at Seaflower Bungalows, which is a lovely mid-range accommodation option on Haad Chao Phao Beach. It’s also a great starting location to get to all other interesting places on the western coast of the island.”

There are many wonderful places to visit in Asia in September. From beach destinations, city escapes, nature retreats, and cultural hot spots, you will have your choice of amazing Asian getaways.

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Asia bucket list: 20 best cities in Asia you should visit

Want to travel to Asia but don’t know where to go? Here are the best cities to add to your Asia bucket list .

With amazing natural landmarks, stunning landscapes, beautiful cities, breathtaking temples, and friendly people, Asia is a continent full of diversity and beauty that every traveler would like to experience.

And the fact that it’s one of the cheapest continents to travel in makes it a perfect destination for many travelers especially those on a budget.

Traveling to Asia especially in South East Asia means that you get to see immense amazing beauty, beautiful temples and incredible Unesco World Heritage sites for a low budget.

In fact, here are some of the cheapest countries in Asia you can visit to enjoy what Asia has to offer even on a shoestring budget.

But with all the breathtaking beauty and beautiful cities in Asia, it can be hard to choose what to add to your Asia Bucket list.

So in this post, I’ll be showing you all the best cities in Asia that you need to visit at least once.

Best cities to add to your Asia bucket list

1. bali, indonesia.

Known for its forested mountains and beautiful long beaches, Bali is like the capital of Asia for tourists who want to unwind, relax and soak in all the amazing beauty.

Filled with a number of activities to do, Bali is a popular tourist destination for all kinds of travelers.

Whether it’s laying on the beach all day, awakening your spiritual side by participating in yoga and other spiritual lessons, going island hopping, exploring rice terraces, immersing yourself in the culture and history by visiting major temples, soaking in the hot springs, or visiting Bali’s beautiful waterfalls, there are a lot of things to do add to your Bali itinerary .

Some of the best places to visit while in Bali include the Besakih Temple which is one of the most important temples in the area and probably the most photographed, Nusa Dua to enjoy a relaxed moment at the beach, Jatiluwih Rice Terraces to be blown away by the amazing beauty, Ulun Danu Bratan Temple and Mount Batur for outdoor lovers and hikers.

2. Cappadocia, Turkey

Located in Eastern Turkey approximately 9 hours away from Istanbul , Cappadocia is easily referred to as one of the most magical places in Asia.

If you hang around Instagram, you’ve probably seen pictures of hot air balloons flying over the beautiful distinctive fairy chimneys creating a magical sight that can only be appreciated in full when physically seen.

And it’s not only the cluster of tall cone-shaped rock formations that make Cappadocia one of the best places in Turkey but also the impressive cave hotels that you can only find in this Asian city.

Whether it’s going for a hot air balloon flight over the fairy chimneys in Monks Valley, exploring the numerous caves or becoming Instagram famous by taking incredible photos at the Sultan Caves suites, there are a number of things to enjoy in Cappadocia.

Some of the places to visit in Cappadocia include the rock castle at Uchisar to get the best views over the area since its the highest point in Cappadocia, Gerome Open Air Museum to see the catholic churches that are carved inside a mountain, Cavusin to explore more caves, and Derinkuyu to see the largest underground city in the Cappadocia.

Cappadocia is truly one of the best cities in Asia to watch amazing sunsets and take incredible hikes while learning more about Turkey’s culture and history. It’s definitely worth adding to your Asia bucket list.

Read more: Best things to do in Istanbul, Turkey Things to know before visiting Istanbul, Turkey

3. Phuket Island, Thailand

Located in the Andaman Sea, Phuket is one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand .

If you want to explore some of the top-notch beaches in the country, then head to Phuket and you’ll be welcomed by almost 30 beaches to choose from.

It’s not just laying on beaches and surfing all day long, Phuket also has a number of vibrant towns that the young and old will enjoy alike.

Want to treat yourself to amazing seafood, Phuket offers a variety of cheap and freshly cooked seafood that will bring a foodie out of any kind of traveler.

Whether it is hopping from one beach to another, participating in all kinds of water sports, signing up for a cooking class, going for a Thai massage, or chasing waterfalls, there are a number of things to do that make Phuket a bucket list destination in Asia.

On top of that, there are some other places you shouldn’t miss visiting like the Big Buddha which is a popular landmark in Thailand, Wat Chalong which is the most popular Buddist temple on the island and the Phuket elephant sanctuary .

4. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Dotted with skyscrapers that occupy the skyline, Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s capital and one of the best cities to visit in Asia.

Forget the small cities of Asia, this bustling and industrial city of Malaysia is full of life that can be seen in the number of possible things to do there.

Though it’s the Petronas Twin Tower that makes Kuala Lumpur famous, this under-rated city of Asia has more to offer to all types of travelers.

Whether it is spending a sunny afternoon at the Sunway Lagoon, have your mind blown away by visiting the Museum of Illusions or climb the Menara Kuala Lumpur Tv Tower for the most spectacular views over the city, you’ll be glad you visited this city.

Some of the other places to visit in Kuala Lumpur include the China town to see the Sri Mahamariamman Temple , the National Mosque , the Sultan Abdul Samad Building , and the impressive Thean Hou Temple .

Read more : Cheapest countries to visit in Asia

5. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Want to see some of the popular temples in Asia, then head to Siem Reap in Cambodia.

Siem Reap might not be one of the most beautiful cities per se, but the immense concentration of temples, with Angkor Wat being the main one has made it a really popular destination.

It is actually one of the most visited places in Cambodia and it’s not surprising at all!

Though vising Angkor Wat is the highlight of a trip to Siem Reap, there are other things to do in this city.

These range from touring the Lotus farm to get an in-depth understanding of how luxurious fabrics from lotus flowers are made, spending an evening of fun at the Angkor Night Market to having an amazing time at Cambodia’s lauded circus at Phare Ponleu Selpak.

While you explore Siem Reap, some other places you shouldn’t miss include the entire Angkor Wat complex , the Angkor National Museum , Land mine Museum and Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre if you love butterflies – it’s actually the largest Butterfly Centre in the whole of South-East Asia.

6. Tokyo, Japan

If you want to escape to a big city in Asia, Tokyo which is Japan’s capital is the ultimate city Asia bucket list.

Though it’s a big megapolis city with millions of people, you can still find your way in this capital.

What even makes Tokyo a bit different from other Asian cities is that you can expect to have a little bit of everything.

From strolling around skyscraper buildings, immersing yourself in the traditions of Japan by visiting temples to indulging yourself in the local Japanese cuisine.

Yes, you can still learn about the culture and traditions even in the busiest city in Japan.

There is definitely a number of things to do in Tokyo but the ones you shouldn’t miss include visiting temples like Meiji Shrine , Kanda-Miojin Shrine , Senso-Ji Buddist Temple , visiting the Tokyo Tower for panoramic views over the city and exploring Asakusa area for the greatest shopping experience in Tokyo.

7. Hoi An, Vietnam

Located in central Vietnam in Quang Nam province, Hoi An is Unesco world Heritage center that is commonly known for its well preserved ancient town.

A stroll in the Ancient town will take you back in time as you discover the history and culture of Vietnam that lies in this little fishing place.

From the yellow-painted buildings to the lanterns that are dotted around the town, this little town has not changed much since the old days and that’s what makes it charming.

While in the ancient town, make sure to visit the museums of Hoi An, explore the ancient tombs of Japanese traders which have increasingly become a popular tourist attraction.

On top of visiting the ancient town, there are a number of things to do in Hoi An which include exploring the riverside at dusk – which is arguably the most beautiful place in Hoi An, visiting Ba Mu Temple , exploring the Japanese bridge or joining the Lantern festival if you visit at the right time – the festival happens on the 14th day of each Lunar month.

8. Cebu, Philippines

Receiving over 2 million foreign travelers a year, Cebu has increasingly become a popular destination over the years.

From gorgeous sand beaches, hidden waterfalls, swirling mountains and hills to untouched nature, Cebu is the perfect bucket list destination in Asia.

One of the things that makes Cebu a popular destination in the Philippines is the Kawasan Falls in Badian which is a three-tiered cascade that is blessed with turquoise water.

If you want to escape the crowds while still enjoying top-notch beaches, then head to Bantayan Island. This small fishing village is not yet overrun by tourists but it’s beautiful beaches and lagoons are perfect for singles and couples alike.

Other than escaping to beaches and participating in water sports, other things to do in Cebu include; visiting Grandeur of the Temple of Leah which is regarded as the Taj Mahal of Cebu, hiking the Osmena Peak which is the highest point in Cebu treating you to breathtaking views, climbing the 81 steps of the Cebu Taoist Temple , and indulging yourself in Cebu’s history by visiting the Spanish Artifacts at Fort San Pedro .

9. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is the Capital of South Korea and the largest metropolitan city in the country.

It is a diverse Asian city that boasts itself with modern and insanely sky-high buildings for city lovers, big palaces and temples for spiritual and history lovers and also beautiful mountains for hikers.

The diversity of the city makes it a perfect Asia bucket list destination for all kinds of travelers.

One of the best things to do in Seoul is to go up the N Seoul Tower where you’re guaranteed to get the best views over the city.

To immerse yourself in South Korea’s history and traditions, you can visit palaces and temples like Jogyesa Temple , Changdeokgung Palace , Gyeongbukgung Palace , and the Gwanghwamun square.

Since it’s a city for all types of travelers, hikers can also satisfy their wanderlust by hiking the old city walls for amazing views over Seoul or even embark on a more serious trail by hiking Bukhansan mountain .

10. Agra, India

Home to the famous Taj Mahal, Agra is one of the best cities in Asia that you should add to your bucket list.

Since the mausoleum of the Taj Mahal is the top tourist attraction, travelers are able to have an up-close look at one of the New wonders of the world and get to know the history of this white marble masterpiece.

However, traveling to Agra is not just about visiting the majestic Taj Mahal, there are a number of things to do and see in this Indian city of Agra.

One of those things is to visit the Red fort also known as the Agra fort. It is the second famous building in the city after the Taj Mahal.

Other places to visit in Agra include the Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra, Yamuna River to fully understand the way of life of the locals, The Tomb of Itimad Ud Daulah. You can also explore the bazaars of the Old City for a more local feel.

And while exploring Agra, you can check out some of these best places North India that are worth visiting.

11. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and the biggest city in the country that is full of vibrant life and at the same time popular for its ornate shrines.

Whether it’s the noisy sound of hooking tuk-tuks during the rush hour, the many street food stalls, the never-ending chaos, Bangkok may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but when you get past all that, you’ll enjoy this Thailand’s capital.

Bangkok is literally the capital of street food, so while you’re there, make sure that you don’t miss out on the street food tasting spree.

If you’ve seen floating food markets in photos before, you’ll be able to see them while in Bangkok.

Some of the other places to visit to get the best of your Bangkok trip include the Grand Palace , Reclining Buddha , Wat Traimit temple , and the Golden Mount Temple.

And if you want to take a break from the busy life of Bangkok, you can go for a boat ride in Chao Phraya River or even relax from a Thai massage.

12. Bagan, Myanmar

Enlisted as a Unesco World Heritage site, Bagan is an ancient city in Myanmar that is mostly famous for Pagodas and impressive temples.

Even though Myanmar had been closed off from tourists in the past years, it has now become a popular destination in Asia receiving over 3.5 million foreign travelers per year and Bagan is the ultimate stop.

Aside from exploring the immense number of temples and Pagodas in Bagan, there are a number of things to.

From watching a magical sunrise/sunset over Bagan to taking a hot air balloon ride over the same, there is nothing more magical than that!

And if you’re interested in learning more about Buddism in Myanmar, you can visit a monk Monastery and they will give you all the information about the belief.

I agree, exploring Bagan can be exhausting, hopping from one temple to another. So when that happens, relax your mind by taking a sunset boat cruise on the Irrawaddy River.

13. Beijing, China

Beijing might be the world’s populous city with skyline buildings and immense technology, but this bustling Chinese capital is also full of ancient palaces and sites that attract tourists when coupled together.

The city is also home to the country’s major tourist attraction, the Great wall of china which also one of the major landmarks in China .

From diving into Chinese history & culture to appreciating the incredible city life, there is so much to do in Beijing.

Some of the things to do include; visiting Tiananmen Square where the modern-day People’s republic of china was formed, exploring the Imperial Palace and the Forbidden City complex , visiting the Summer Place which is regarded as the most beautiful place in the country.

Other places to visit in Beijing include; The Temple of Heaven , Beijing capital Museum , National Museum of China , Beihai Park and so many others.

14. Luang Prabang, Laos

Consisting of over 33 temples, Luang Prabang is a charming city in northern Laos that was enlisted as a Unesco World Heritage site because of its interesting culture and traditions.

Just like many of the Asian cities, Luang Prabang is blessed with a number of temples but the prominent ones not to miss include; the Buddha’s Footprint Temple , Wat Xieng Thong , Wat Hua Xiang , and Wat Mahathat.

And to cool off from exploring all the temples, head to Kuang Si Waterfall which is the most visited attraction in Luang Prabang. It is a three-tier turquoise waterfall that is perfect for a dip and it’s absolutely possible to swim in all the spots.

Whilst exploring Luang Prabang, other attractions to visit include the Royal Palace Museum , Pak Ou Caves , a hike to the top of Mount Phousi and if you visit in the dry season, you can walk across the Bamboo bridge .

15. Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei may not be one of those Asian cities that immediately come to mind when you think of traveling to Asia, but this Taiwan capital has proved to be a great gem that is worthing adding to your Asia bucket list.

From skyscrapers, nature, history to everything in between, Taipei has a lot to offer to all kinds of travelers.

The first thing you should do while in Taipei is to take in the city views from Taipei 101 which is one of the tallest buildings in the world and the most iconic structure in the country. And what’s even more exciting is riding the world’s fastest elevator as you go up.

In addition to taking in a bird’s view over Taipei from Taipei 101, some of the incredible things to do include; exploring the Chinese history and culture by visiting the National Palace Museum , hiking up the Elephant mountain for amazing city views, relaxing your mind from the Thermal waters at Beitou Hot Springs or spending some time exploring the many temples in the city.

16. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Located in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is the most popular and most culturally significant city in this part of the country.

With a mix of culture, amazing nature, great food, incredible landscapes, it’s not hard to see why Chiang Mai is one of the best cities to visit in Asia.

One of its unique features is the Sticky waterfalls which draws a lot of adventure travelers. Unlike other waterfalls, this one is actually “sticky” like the name suggests which means that you can easily climb it with slipping.

It’s not just waterfalls in Chiang Mai, you can paddle across the river with a Bamboo raft , explore the numerous temples (like Wat Phra Sing, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Chiang Man or Wat Saen Fang ), visit Doi Inthanon National Park , and if you visit in November, be sure to celebrate Loy Krathong with the locals.

Chiang Mai is also a hub of museums, so if you’re a traveler that is on a cultural journey, you can explore a number of them. The most common ones are The National Museum of Chiang Mai, Lanna Folk Art Museum, Chiang Mai Cultural and Artistic Center , and the Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders to see a unique collection of insects.

17. Bohol, Philippines

Commonly known for the Chocolate Hills, Bohol is one of the popular destinations in the Philippines that is worth visiting on your Asian trip.

From incredibly beautiful waterfalls, cave pools, to island hopping, Bohol is filled with so much adventure that travelers will enjoy.

Some of the incredible things to do in Bohol include; diving in one of the many waterfalls with the most beautiful being Dimiao “Twin Falls”, Can-Umantad Falls, Pangas waterfall, and Camugao Falls , gazing at the beautiful Cadapdapan Rice Terraces , visiting the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary to see the famous Tarsier, or lazying it out on Bohol’s beautiful beaches like Panglao Beach , and Alona Beach .

And to crown your Bohol trip style, make sure that you walk on the Hanging Bamboo bridges that cross Sipatan River.

18. Mumbai, India

Mumbai is one of those Asian cities you’d love to hate. Being the largest and most populous in the country, some travelers are always wary about visiting it due to its chaotic nature.

But if you’re able to look beyond the chaos and noise, you’ll end up loving this cosmopolitan city of India.

From visiting the famous building of Mumbai Taj , catching an amazing sunset at the Gateway of India , delving into India’s history by visiting the Elephanta Island to visiting the Prince of Wales Museum , there is so much to in Mumbai.

Some of the other places to visit in Mumbai include; Haji Ali Dargah Mosque, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, and Global Vipassana Pagoda . On top of these, don’t forget to try out India’s famous street food.

Related post: 10 best ways to survive in India as a tourist

19. Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is not different from other Asian cities.

Great food, interesting history, immense culture, and busy streets are some of the things you can expect to experience in the city of Hanoi.

Some of the things that make Hanoi worth traveling to include; visiting the Old Quarter to experience the city like a local, exploring the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minch , wandering around Hoan Kiem Lake , and visiting the Hanoi Opera House which is the most beautiful building in the city

If you’re traveling on a budget , (even if you’re not actually), join a free walking tour of the city to get to know everything about this Vietnamese capital.

20. Kandy, Sri Lanka

Enlisted as a Unesco World Heritage site, Kandy is Sri Lanka’s capital of culture.

It is a popular city in Sri Lanka especially since it’s a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and also home to the beautiful Tooth Relic Temple.

Some of the best things to add to your Sri Lanka itinerary include strolling the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, visiting the Historic Three-Temple loop of Kandy, and visiting the Embekke Devalaya Temple which has carved wooden pillars.

Other points of interest not to miss in Kandy are the Big Buddha, Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, Gadaladeniya Temple and Lankathilake Vihara.

There you have it, folks. If you were looking for cities to add to your Asia bucket list, I hope that this post gave you a number of options to consider.

Have you been to any other cities in Asia that are worth being on this list, you can drop your recommendations in the comment section.

More bucket list posts to inspire your wanderlust

• Most Romantic Places to visit in the world
• Bucket list places to visit in Paris
• Bucket list places to visit in Europe
• Best places to visit in North India
• Most Romantic Places to visit in Europe

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Hi Esther! Found you via Pinterest.. NIce bucket list!

Bali is wonderful (I’m from Indonesia!). Phuket and KL are also both great for different reasons. Bohol, Philippines is new to me…adding to my list! No Hong Kong?

Hey, where is that first picture at the top, with the low waterfall, from? Keep up the great work!

Hi AJ, I am glad you found the bucket list helpful! Yes, Bali is truly beautiful as other destinations on this Asia Bucket list! And I agree, Hong Kong is also beautiful so it deserves to be on the list.

The photo is from Badian, Cebu in the Philippines!

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

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My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

5 LGBTQ Travel Tips for Asia

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

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Fascinating Culture And Mouthwatering Food: Americans Love Visiting This Bustling Asian Destination

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Traveling to Asia can be the adventure of a lifetime.

Some places are excellent gateways for first-time international travelers, while others may ignite sensory overload through stunning sites, unique cultural norms, and the tastes and aromas of savory food.

Summertime is upon us, so there's no better time to take advantage of your PTO by hopping aboard a long-haul flight to one of the most captivating continents on the planet.

Problem being Asia has so many cool places to explore, so how do you pick one ?

Well, according to the latest statistics , more and more Americans are visiting the incredible country of South Korea , and for good measure.

Home to a fascinating culture and mouthwatering food, Americans love visiting this bustling Asian destination.

A Trending Foodie Destination

Next stop you're driving around your hometown, take time to look around. In all likelihood, you'll spot a Korean restaurant, but this hasn't always been the case.

Korean Barbecue, Hot Pots, and Bibimbap Bowls, and even Korean-style fried chicken are all the rage nowadays.

It's no longer just classic Chinese takeout or inauthentic sushi as your go-to for your Asian food fix.

Korean cuisine is so flavorful and savory; who can blame someone for taking a foodie trip across the globe?

In fact, many locals rarely cook at home in large cities. Even yours truly is trying to master a Kimchi Bloody Mary concoction, and I live nowhere near Asia.

In major cities like Seoul, you can't go wrong. Kimchi is a way of life, but when you go out for barbecue or hot pots, it's a social gathering and makes for a more fun outing.

Whether it's the latest restaurant everyone is talking about on TikTok or browsing the action-packed streets for cheap eats, South Korea is one of the best spots in Asia to indulge in one of the trendiest types of cuisine right now.

Who knows, maybe little soju and sake will level up your visit and have you singing the latest K-Pop hits at a karaoke bar – one of the most popular social activities here.

One Of The Most Fascinating Cultures in Asia

Most travelers visiting South Korea find themselves in Seoul, the country's phenomenal capital city home to nearly 10 million people.

This bustling city is an endless playground for travelers who love delicious food, historic sites, and bustling markets.

While it seems every major city in the world has some form of an ‘Old Town' or areas dedicated to its past, it's hard to ignore what Seoul has become today – a major metropolis with the latest tech and futuristic amenities.

While there are no hotels with robotic dinosaurs checking you into your room like you'll find in Tokyo, Seoul's bright neon lights, high-speed metro system, and future plans to eliminate all bland gray structures and go figuratively and literally green,

Tourists will find a mix of old and new, both equally fun to explore from traditional markets, Buddhist temples to the latest gizmos and gadgets at tech shows and eSport matches, South Korea is a draw for everyone.

This includes budget travelers. A little-known fact about Seoul is how many attractions are free .

These 4 museums are free to enter:

• National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
• Seoul Museum of History
• War Memorial
• National History Museum

South Korea Is Dipping Their Toes In The Digital Nomad Craze

First and foremost, South Korea has nearly 25,000 free Wi-Fi hotspots across the country, which benefits all travelers, not just digital nomads.

With the new launch of the country's highly touted Digital Nomad Visa earlier this year, it didn't hit the mark with your run-of-the-mill remote worker on the go.

Issuing digital nomad visas has become a new trend with countries trying to keep up with the digital nomad craze, but this one is harder to qualify for.

Not to say it's not enticing, but it's a far cry from, say, Colombia.

While more Americans are pouring into South Korea, not are all digital nomads. That being said, a trip here may coerce you into trying to nab the visa for a long-term stay.

Seoul is an awesome place to visit, but don't skimp on other gems digital nomads would love to make their base.

Another large city filled with thrills, history, and even nice beaches is Busan . Better yet, South Korea is home to an island known as “the Hawaii of South Korea”.

Jeju Island is a popular tourist destination with stunning beaches, scenic mountains and lush forests, perfect for an exotic escape away from the hustle and bustle of Busan and Seoul.

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

The post Fascinating Culture And Mouthwatering Food: Americans Love Visiting This Bustling Asian Destination appeared first on Travel Off Path .

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China’s ‘game-changing’ Aussie passport move

China has just made a “game-changing” move for Aussie passport holders, adding Australia to a list of only 13 other countries that enjoy this perk.

Silly mistake that cost me $500 in Bali

Asian destination on the rise for Aussies

‘Infested’: YouTubers ‘ruined’ tourist hotspot

Aussies will no longer need a visa when visiting China for 15 days or less in a new move that will see them save $110.

Chinese premier Li Qiang made the announcement at Parliament House on Monday during his visit where he explained Australia would be included in the Asian country’s visa waiver program to fast track international travel for Aussies travellers.

The number of nations enjoying visa-free entry to China now totals 14, including New Zealand after it was added to the program in May.

The move will see Aussies enjoying travel to China for up to 15 days for business, tourism and to visit family and friends without having to secure a visa. It also means they will save $110, which was the rough price for a single-entry visa into China, according to Flight Centre .

Mr Li said Australia will reciprocate the gesture for Chinese passport holders.

It also means that the Aussie passport, currently the sixth most powerful in the world , will now give visa-free access to 190 out of 227 destinations worldwide.

Australia-China relations tighten

“We agreed to provide each other with reciprocal access to five-year multiple entry visas for tourism, business, and visiting family members to better facilitate personal exchanges. China will also include Australia in its visa waiver program,” Mr Li said.

Multiple entry visas mean a person will be able to enter and exit the country as many times as they want during the time their visa is valid.

China has yet to detail the specifics of the new visa waiver arrangement but the move has been welcomed by Aussie travel company founder Wender Wu who branded it a “game-changer” for Australian travellers and the tourism industry.

“As the number one China touring specialist in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, we are thrilled about the opportunities this presents for travellers,” she told Travel Weekly .

“(The) announcement is very welcome news. This visa-free policy will make short trips more accessible and straightforward, and we’re positive it will encourage a robust return to destination China for Aussie holiday-makers.”

Mr Li said his visit to Canberra demonstrated that China’s relationship with Australia is “on the right track” as the trading partners moved on from a bitter economic dispute despite a duel for influence in the Pacific.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declared relations between the two nations as “renewed and revitalised”, adding there will also be talks on improving military relations to avoid incidents such as last year’s sonar attack on HMAS Toowoomba.

“One of the very practical measures that we spoke about was improving military-to-military communication so as to avoid incidents,” Mr Albanese told reporters on Monday.

“So obviously what will happen is that officials will go away, and we’ll have that discussion about how that can be implemented in practice.”

Business travel to China up 68 per cent amid visa-waiver program

Flight Centre Corporate – incorporating flagship brands FCM Travel and Corporate Traveller – revealed business travel between China and Australia had grown by 68 per cent in the current quarter to date (April 1, 2024 to June 17, 2024), compared to the second quarter of the 2023 calendar year.

China opened its borders to Australia again in March 2023, following border closures as a result of the pandemic.

“This move means Australian businesses will be able to travel more seamlessly and more cost effectively to China,” Renos Rologas, FCM Travel general manager ANZ, said.

Fee changes to Aussie passport

As of next month the cost of the Australian passport is set to increase by 15 per cent, meaning those who plan on purchasing the ten-year travel document will have to pay almost $400, up from $346.

In January, the fee increased per standard inflation price indexing that occurs each year – and will jump up again on July 1 to exactly $397.90.

The federal government announced in May that Australians can fast-track their passport being processed if they pay $100.

More Coverage

Their new passport will be processed within five business days if they do so. The change will kick in from July 2.

As it currently stands, obtaining a new passport or renewing one usually takes around six weeks, according to the Australian Passport Office.

There’s already a “priority processing” option for Aussies needing their travel documents urgently, which allows them to get their hands on their passport in just two business days – this costs $252 – on top of the $346 base fee for the passport itself.

This Aussie traveller made a mistake in Bali that saw her fined $500 – but it could have been a lot worse.

Japan and South Korea have seen a huge boost in tourism, particularly among Aussies, and while they’re popularity remains high there’s another Asian destination on the rise.

Attention-seeking live-streamers have been accused of “ruining” one of the most popular travel destinations for Aussies.

Why 2024 is the prime time to discover Kazakhstan

Direct flight routes, festivals with nomadic flair and millennia-old natural beauty are drawing travellers to the Kazakh Steppe this year. Here's how to explore the best of the country's landscapes, culture and events in 2024.

Stretching far out into the horizon, the vast grass seas of the Great Steppe roll across Central Asia in a rugged and dramatic fashion. Though occasionally roamed by the rare horse rider or lone nomad, the plains of Kazakhstan are largely unexplored by the majority of travellers. But this beautiful, remote region is increasingly showing its modern identity to the world through its cities, events and transport hubs. Thanks to a number of direct flight routes from London and 30-day visa-free access for UK visitors, it's now easier than ever to experience Kazakhstan’s distinctive culture and landscapes. Here’s how to do it.

Most visitors will enter Kazakhstan from the forest-swathed southeast, landing in Almaty . Divided by dense thickets of pine and birch, the city’s surrounding green mountain peaks conceal vast lakes and twisting horse-back trails. In Kolsai Lakes National Park, Lake Kaindy’s cerulean waters draw the most attention. Here, a landslide triggered by an earthquake formed a natural dam and submerged a spruce forest beneath the surface of the lake. It’s now surrounded by picturesque hiking trails and secluded accommodation options. For equally dramatic yet drastically different scenery, travel from Almaty to Charyn Canyon. Easily traversable, this vast red and golden gorge is cut through by a walkable or driveable (in a 4x4) trail guiding visitors to dizzying desert viewpoints.

Those keen to venture deeper into central Kazakhstan can take the train into the region of Turkistan and the historic Silk Road city of Shymkent . Life has persevered here since the fourth century, with the city playing host to Sufi sheikhs and Mongol leaders, and becoming a centre of Islamic learning under the Timurids. Hop over low-lying mud-brick walls and stroll between the turquoise-tiled domes that cap mausoleums around the city, or roam the battlement ridges of the protective outer wall. The city’s Uzbek architecture and Persian designs were conserved under Soviet rule, making it an ideal stop for those curious about the history of the Turkic Steppe and a great base for further exploration of the Turkistan Region.

When in the west, the port city of Aktau and its Caspian shores offer easy access to the otherworldly plateaus that characterise the Mangystau Region. Laced with lines of ochre rock and amber streaks, here colourful geology enshrouds labyrinthine desert trails and dramatic gorges. Sharp jutting ridges and undulating rock formations shadow clear traces of 50 million years of life existing in its canyons — palaeontologists regularly unearth new evidence of animal life in the Ustyurt Nature Reserve. From large Tyrannosaurus rex and mammoths to giant fish fossilised within the Paleozoic seas, the fauna of the region has been millennia in the making.  

All these landscapes have been navigated for centuries by the nomadic people of the steppe, whose ancient traditions you can witness today. Observe displays of horse riding or falconers flying their hunting eagles before settling down to try beshbarmak , a platter of boiled meat and innards served with a glass of fermented milk to settle the stomach. Alternatively, order qurt , a cheese made from goat’s or camel’s milk that’s stored in saddlebags and churned by the galloping motion of the nomads’ horses.

How to travel to Kazakhstan in 2024  

Why now? In September 2024, competitors from all over the Eurasian Steppe will converge in Astana for the fifth World Nomad Games . Athletes participate in events like mounted archery, falconry, goat pulling and horseback wrestling.

Where to stay? Visitors from the UK should base themselves in either Aktau or Almaty, both of which are accessible via direct flights from London Heathrow with Air Astana up to four times a week. These cosmopolitan hubs serve as gateways to the country’s best natural and cultural experiences. To catch the World Nomad Games, take a domestic flight to the country’s capital, Astana.

When to travel? Seasons are an intense affair in Kazakhstan as temperatures can range from 40C to -20C. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn, when the climate is more moderate. In winter, head to Almaty, where ski areas are accessed via cable-car.  

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• CULTURAL TOURISM

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Four Seasons’ Private Jet Trips Will Take You to Asia, Africa, and Beyond in 2026

The six 2026 itineraries range from 13 to 21 days and cost between $159,000 and $229,000 per person., rachel cormack.

Digital Editor

Rachel Cormack's Most Recent Stories

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• Share This Article

It’s never too early to start planning a vacation. Just ask Four Seasons .

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“Our goal is to create connections with travelers of this generation and the next, fostering a legacy of transformative experiences that extend far beyond the journey,” Marc Speichert, executive vice president and chief commercial officer of Four Seasons, said in a statement.

The 2026 itineraries range from 13 to 21 days and cost between $159,000 and $229,000 per person. To start planning your trip, visit the Four Seasons website or email the team at [email protected].

Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the…

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