Friday, January 27, 2012

Top 7 Must-See Asian Destinations

Travelling is a luxury only a few can afford.  It is an activity that takes time, money and effort, but it’s also one of the most rewarding, gratifying and enriching.  Travelling broadens your perspectives and views about people and places, allows you to experience cultures, and gives you the chance to see beautiful sites that many can only dream of.

Travel destinations ought to be picked wisely.  You pick the ones where you can optimize costs, the ones that assure you a culturally enriching experience, and the ones that promise the ultimate in rest and recreation.  You wouldn’t want to spend hundreds of dollars in plane rides and hotel accommodations and end up not enjoying your stay at the place.

When looking for travel destinations that are accessible, diverse and affordable or cost-effective – as well as ideal during the summer – Asia comes to mind.  Asia is home to some very exciting cities, unique and colourful festivals, world-famous monuments and landmarks, exquisite scenic spots, and fascinating wildlife.  Asia is also home to some of the world’s earliest religions, richest cultures, and deeply rooted traditions.

Here are some travel destinations in Asia where you can be sure to have the time of your life.

1. Siem Reap, Cambodia. This is a traditional town known for its ancient culture.  It is a known sanctuary for travellers who are in need of a personal retreat, what with its ancient temples and sites such as the Angkor Wat, the Phnom Krom, and the FCC Angkor.  Yet against this backdrop of age-old religious complexes are modern and luxurious accommodations for guests.

2. Bali, Indonesia. Bali is a little island known among tourists for its exotic splendor and magical charm.  Think of temperate climate, lush green rice terraces, idyllic scenery, ancient temples, wonderful smell of incense, beautiful works of art, captivating dances; and great beaches and dive spots.  Bali also has good hotels and affordable accommodations for foreign tourists.

3. India. India has a wide variety of different experiences to offer.  It has a rich mix of religions, languages and lifestyles.  You can enjoy India’s natural wealth and join safari expeditions, or immerse yourself in its culture by visiting spots like the Ganges, which once was home to one of the world’s oldest civilizations.  Wander through some of the country’s bazaars and lose yourself in the wonderful aroma of fresh spices.  Or join its religious festivals, wearing colourful and intricately designed saris.  Of course, a visit to India will never be complete without seeing the most famous and marvellous white marble structure, the Taj Mahal, in Agra.

4. Kathmandu, Nepal. Travellers and adventurers know Nepal as the land of unexplored mountains.  However, Kathmandu, the country’s capital, is the core of Nepalese historical and architectural masterpieces.  The city is dotted with Hindu temples and Buddhist stupas, which are visited by pilgrims and soul-searchers from around the world.  You can also roam Kathmandu’s colourful tourist markets and lively streets.

5. Phuket, Thailand. Phuket is the country’s biggest island, and its beaches are legendary.  Explore nature’s finest in Phuket and enjoy its long stretches of white sand and turquoise/blue waters.  You can try out an entire selection of sports and outdoor activities like mountain trekking, sailing, elephant trekking and boat parachuting.  The place also offers peace and tranquillity for weary travellers, with the comforts of modern accommodations.

6. Beijing, China. Experience China’s rich and colourful history and culture first-hand by visiting Beijing.  Tour around the Forbidden City and the Gates of Heavenly Peace and breathe in the splendor of the Chinese imperial dynasties that once upon a time ruled the land.  Marvel at the art of the Qing and Ming Dynasties, particularly the exquisite paintings, porcelain work, and architecture.  Against this backdrop of the old and ancient, are the signs of modernity and of Beijing’s transformation into a bustling metropolis.  And oh, never leave China – or Beijing, for that matter – without having been to the country’s greatest landmark: the Great Wall.

7.  Tokyo, Japan. Japan is home to contradicting cultures – very historical yet ultra modern.  Its capital, Tokyo, offers things that are either a big part of Japan’s cultural heritage, or are part of pop culture and modern-day trends.  Tokyo also reeks of great technological advancements. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture by visiting temples, watching sumo fights and witnessing kabuki.  You can also admire their breathtaking and manicured landscapes.  But, after all these, do not forget that Tokyo has the newest and hottest fashion trends, nightspots, and electronics – so take advantage of your visit and go to its known shopping districts.

Asia has many great places worth visiting.  Other great destinations for tourists include Singapore; Palawan, Philippines; Boracay, Philippines; Bangkok, Thailand; Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Hanoi, Vietnam; Maldives; Bhutan; and Luang Prabang, Laos.

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