Asia is a diverse continent; it contains incredible jungles, awe-inspiring mountains, beautiful beaches, and bustling cities. Its history and religious monuments will make you pause in wonder as you try to contemplate the rich tapestry of Asian culture.
- Vietnam
Vietnam is a country where life is lived in full view, street vendors cover nearly every inch of the pavement selling a variety of household goods and trinkets. Pull up a chair at a small roadside table and sample some of their incredible street food.
Visit Ho Chi Minh City to learn about Vietnam’s history and sample the unique Vietnamese coffee. Once the manic city wears you out take a leisurely boat ride along the Mekong Delta and see the beautiful countryside.
- Cambodia
Cambodia is a country full of contrast, busy, gritty cities and peaceful beaches and countryside.
In the capital Phnom Penh, you can learn about the tragic and heart-breaking history of Pol Pot. The city can seem abrasive at first but has its own hidden charm, as Ben Groundwater outlines in his blog.
Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world. Going there and watching the sunrise will take your breath away.
- India
Once the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the British Empire, India is now the world’s largest independent democratic country. Visiting India will be a unique experience and one that offers complete sensory overload, in the best way possible.
Many of us enjoy a good curry, but authentic, fresh Indian food will put your local curry house to shame. Visit the incredible buildings India has to offer; the Taj Mahal just outside of Delhi, or the Sikh Golden Temple in Amritsar. You can also just relax on the golden sand beaches of Goa.
- Japan
Visiting Tokyo feels like stepping into the future. The skyscrapers and neon lights provide the perfect backdrop for an evening walk. Everything in the city seems to be more high tech than life back home, from the trains to the toilets.
Japan can also be very traditional. Travel to Kyoto to explore bamboo forests, visit intricately designed temples, sip tea, and look in wonder at all the colourful kimonos.
- China
Shanghai is the biggest city in the world. While there be sure to take a cruise along the Bund and witness the incredible skyline and colonial architecture.
Head to Beijing to visit another megacity, from here you can visit cultural wonders such as The Great Wall and the Forbidden City.
To see a different side of China, try Yangshuo. Here you can see stunning scenery and trek the Karst Mountains.
- Bali
Bali is the perfect place to relax on the beach, amongst the backpackers. You can bask in the sun, enjoying a cocktail, and meet people from all over the world in Bali’s idyllic beaches.
There is much more to this country though. Take a temple tour to explore Bali’s spiritual side. The monster parade is a must see as the home crafted demons that fill the streets are a sight to behold.
Have you visited Asia? Share your recommendations with us.
