There are many countries in Asia that are popular tourist destinations, and each one has its own unique natural and man-made landmarks. It was really hard to come up with a digestible list of countries to visit so I chose the countries based on where I have been or where I would like to go. I will provide a separate Travel Guide for China, India and Russia. Some of the most heavily toured countries in Asia include:
- Bhutan
- Cambodia – SE Asia
- Hong Kong
- Japan
- Laos – SE Asia
- Philippines – SE Asia
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Taiwan
- Thailand – SE Asia
- Vietnam – SE Asia
Asia is home to a wide variety of natural and man-made landmarks. Listed below is a very small sampling of natural and man-made landmarks within the Asia.
Natural Landmarks:
- Bhutan: The Himalayas, The Black Mountains, Jigme Dorji National Park, Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve
- Cambodia: The Mekong River, The Cardamom Mountains, The Tonle Sap, The Beaches of Sihanoukville
- Hong Kong: Victoria Peak, Repulse Bay, Lantau Island, and Sai Kung Peninsula
- Japan: Mount Fuji, the Japanese Alps, and the hot springs of Hokkaido
- Laos: The Mekong River, Bolaven Plateau, Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area
- Philippines: The Chocolate Hills, The Palawan Underground River, The Mayon Volcano, The Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras
- Singapore: Singapore Botanic Gardens, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Pulau Ubin Island, MacRitchie Reservoir
- South Korea: Jeju Island, Seoraksan National Park, Jirisan National Park, Hallyeohaesang National Park
- Taiwan: Taroko National Park, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan National Scenic Area
- Thailand: beaches of Phuket, the limestone cliffs of Krabi, and the forests of Khao Yai National Park
- Vietnam: Ha Long Bay, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Ba Be National Park
Man-Made Landmarks:
- Bhutan: Paro Taktsang, Punakha Dzong, Tashichho Dzong, The National Memorial Chorten
- Cambodia: Angkor Wat, The Royal Palace, The National Museum of Cambodia, The Killing Fields, The Silver Pagoda
- Hong Kong: Victoria Harbour, The Peak Tram, and Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
- Japan: Tokyo Tower, the Great Buddha of Kamakura, and the temples and shrines of Kyoto
- Laos: Wat Phu Temple Complex, The That Luang Stupa, The Patuxai: a war memorial in Vientiane, also known as the “Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane”, The Pha That Luang
- Philippines: The Banaue Rice Terraces, The Intramuros, Rizal Park, The San Agustin Church, The Taal Heritage Town, The Mactan Island
- Singapore: Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and The Merlion
- South Korea: Gyeongbokgung Palace, The Namdaemun Market, The Namsan Tower, The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), The Hwaseong Fortress, The Bulguksa Temple
- Taiwan: Taipei 101, National Palace Museum, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
- Thailand: The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Grand Palace, and the floating markets of Damnoen Saduak.
- Vietnam: Old Quarter (Hanoi), The Citadel (Hue), The Citadel (Hue)
These are just a few examples of the many popular tourist destinations within Asia. Each country in the region has its own unique culture and attractions, and there is much to discover and explore for travelers of all interests.
The Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Asia depends on the specific countries and regions you are planning to visit and the type of activities you want to do.
Here are some general guidelines to consider when planning a trip to Asia:
- Southeast Asia: The best time to visit Southeast Asia depends on the specific country and the climate you prefer. In general, the dry season (November to April) is the most popular time to visit, as the weather is generally pleasant and there is less risk of rain. However, the wet season (May to October) can also be a good time to visit, as the temperatures are cooler, and the prices are often lower.
- Bhutan has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit depends on what you want to do there. The spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are generally considered the best times to visit, as the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. The summer (June to August) can be quite hot and humid, while the winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy in the higher elevations.
- Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The best time to visit depends on your preferences and what you want to do there. The fall (October to December) is generally considered the best time to visit, as the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. However, the spring (March to May) can also be a good time to visit, as the weather is warm, and the flowers are in bloom.
- Japan has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit depends on what you want to do there. The spring (March to May) is generally considered the best time to visit, as the weather is pleasant, and the cherry blossoms are in bloom. The fall (September to November) is also a good time to visit, as the weather is mild, and the autumn leaves are beautiful. The summer (June to August) can be quite hot and humid, while the winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy in the higher elevations.
- Singapore has a tropical climate with hot, humid weather year-round. The best time to visit depends on your preferences and what you want to do there. The cooler and drier months (December to March) are generally considered the best time to visit, as the weather is more pleasant. However, the wetter months (April to November) can also be a good time to visit, as the prices are often lower and there are fewer crowds.
- South Korea has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit depends on what you want to do there. The spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are generally considered the best times to visit, as the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. The summer (June to August) can be quite hot and humid, while the winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy in the higher elevations.
- Taiwan has a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The best time to visit depends on your preferences and what you want to do there. The fall (October to December) is generally considered the best time to visit, as the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. However, the spring (March to May) can also be a good time to visit, as the weather is warm, and the flowers are in bloom.
It is always a good idea to check the weather forecast and local events calendar before booking your trip to Asia, as this can help you plan your activities and ensure that you have a pleasant and enjoyable vacation.
What to Expect:
LANGUAGE:
The official languages of the Middle East vary widely and depend on the specific country or region you are visiting. Many of the countries in the Middle East have multiple official languages, and many people in the region also speak other languages as a first or second language.
Here is a list of the official languages of some of the countries in the Middle East:
- Southeast Asia: The official languages of Southeast Asia vary by country. Some examples include Indonesian in Indonesia, Thai in Thailand, and Vietnamese in Vietnam.
- The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha.
- The official languages of Hong Kong are Chinese (Cantonese) and English.
- The official language of Japan is Japanese.
- The official languages of Singapore are English, Malay, Chinese (Mandarin), and Tamil.
- The official language of South Korea is Korean.
- The official languages of Taiwan are Mandarin Chinese and Taiwanese Hokkien.
Many people in Asia also speak other languages, either as a first language or as a second language.
CURRENCY:
The official currencies of Asia vary widely and depend on the specific country or region you are visiting. Many of the countries in Asia have their own currencies, while others use the currencies of other countries or accept multiple currencies as a form of payment.
Here is a list of the official currencies of some of the countries in Asia:
- Southeast Asia: The official currencies of Southeast Asia vary by country. Some examples include the Indonesian rupiah in Indonesia, the Thai baht in Thailand, and the Vietnamese dong in Vietnam.
- The official currency of Bhutan is the Bhutanese ngultrum.
- The official currency of Hong Kong is the Hong Kong dollar.
- The official currency of Japan is the Japanese yen.
- The official currency of Singapore is the Singapore dollar.
- The official currency of South Korea is the South Korean won.
- The official currency of Taiwan is the New Taiwan dollar.
It is important to note that the official currencies of Asia are not the only currencies that are accepted in the region. Some countries in Asia also accept other currencies, such as the US dollar or the euro, as a form of payment. It is always a good idea to check the local currency and exchange rates before traveling to Asia to ensure that you have enough cash on hand for your trip.
BANKS & ATMS:
Banks and ATMs are generally readily available in many parts of Asia. Many of the major cities in the region have well-developed financial systems, with numerous banks and ATMs available to serve the needs of residents and visitors.
However, it is always a good idea to check the availability of banks and ATMs in the specific cities and towns you will be visiting, especially if you are traveling to more remote or rural areas. Some smaller towns or rural areas may have fewer banks and ATMs, or they may only be open during certain hours.
It is also a good idea to notify your bank before traveling to Asia to let them know where you will be and to ensure that your bank cards will work while you are abroad. This can help you avoid any issues with your bank cards being blocked or declined due to suspicious activity.
- In Southeast Asia, banks and ATMs are generally easily accessible in major cities and tourist areas. However, it is a good idea to have some cash on hand, as some smaller businesses may not accept credit cards. It is also a good idea to have some local currency, as some ATMs may not accept foreign cards.
- In Bhutan, banks and ATMs are generally easily accessible in major cities and tourist areas. However, it is a good idea to have some cash on hand, as some smaller businesses may not accept credit cards. It is also a good idea to have some local currency, as some ATMs may not accept foreign cards.
- In Hong Kong, banks and ATMs are widely available, and most accept foreign cards. It is also possible to exchange money at currency exchange offices and some hotels.
- In Japan, banks and ATMs are widely available, and most accept foreign cards. It is also possible to exchange money at currency exchange offices and some hotels.
- In Singapore, banks and ATMs are widely available, and most accept foreign cards. It is also possible to exchange money at currency exchange offices and some hotels.
- In South Korea, banks and ATMs are widely available, and most accept foreign cards. It is also possible to exchange money at currency exchange offices and some hotels.
- In Taiwan, banks and ATMs are widely available, and most accept foreign cards. It is also possible to exchange money at currency exchange offices and some hotels.
Finally, it is important to remember to take common-sense precautions when using banks and ATMs in Asia, such as protecting your personal information and being aware of your surroundings to avoid being a victim of crime.
PRIMARY MODES OF TRANSPORTATION:
The primary modes of transportation within Asia vary widely and depend on the specific country or region you are visiting.
Here are some common modes of transportation available within Asia:
- In Southeast Asia, the most common modes of transportation are buses, trains, and planes. In some countries, such as Thailand and Vietnam, it is also possible to travel by boat.
- In Bhutan, the most common modes of transportation are buses and taxis. It is also possible to travel by plane or by hiring a private vehicle with a driver.
- In Hong Kong, the most common modes of transportation are the Mass Transit Railway (MTR), buses, and taxis. It is also possible to travel by ferry.
- In Japan, the most common modes of transportation are trains, buses, and planes. It is also possible to travel by ferry or by hiring a private vehicle with a driver.
- In Singapore, the most common modes of transportation are the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and buses. It is also possible to travel by taxi or by hiring a private vehicle with a driver.
- In South Korea, the most common modes of transportation are trains, buses, and planes. It is also possible to travel by taxi or by hiring a private vehicle with a driver.
- In Taiwan, the most common modes of transportation are trains, buses, and planes. It is also possible to travel by taxi or by hiring a private vehicle with a driver
It is always a good idea to research the various modes of transportation available within Asia and to choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
SAFETY:
Overall, travel safety in Asia varies widely and depends on the specific country or region you are visiting. Some parts of Asia are considered safe for travelers, while others may have more security risks or potential for political instability. It is always a good idea to research the specific country or region you are planning to visit and to be aware of any travel advisories or warnings issued by your government or the local authorities.
Here are some tips for staying safe while traveling within Asia:
- Respect the local laws and customs of the countries and regions you are visiting and be mindful of your behavior and actions.
- Keep your valuables, such as your passport and money, safe and secure, and be aware of your surroundings when using ATMs or making purchases.
- Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially when walking around at night or in crowded areas. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas or areas that are known to be dangerous.
- Use common sense when traveling in Asia and trust your instincts. If something feels unsafe or uncomfortable, remove yourself from the situation.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance before your trip to Asia. Travel insurance can provide peace of mind and protect you from unforeseen circumstances, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost or stolen belongings.
By following these simple precautions, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Asia.
WHAT TO PACK AND WEAR:
When traveling to Asia, it is important to pack and dress appropriately due to varying customs, elevations and weather patterns. Here are some general guidelines to consider when packing and dressing for a trip to Asia:
- In Southeast Asia, it is generally recommended to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or other cultural sites. Light, breathable clothing is a good choice, as the weather is often hot and humid. It is also a good idea to bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- In Bhutan, it is generally recommended to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or other cultural sites. Layering is a good idea, as the weather can vary greatly depending on the elevation. It is also a good idea to bring insect repellent and sunscreen.
- In Hong Kong, it is generally recommended to dress in lightweight, breathable clothing, as the weather can be hot and humid. It is also a good idea to bring an umbrella, as it can rain at any time of year.
- In Japan, it is generally recommended to dress in lightweight, breathable clothing, as the weather can be hot and humid in the summer and cold in the winter. It is also a good idea to bring an umbrella, as it can rain at any time of year.
- In Singapore, it is generally recommended to dress in lightweight, breathable clothing, as the weather can be hot and humid. It is also a good idea to bring an umbrella, as it can rain at any time of year.
- In South Korea, it is generally recommended to dress in lightweight, breathable clothing in the summer, and warm clothing in the winter. It is also a good idea to bring an umbrella, as it can rain at any time of year.
- In Taiwan, it is generally recommended to dress in lightweight, breathable clothing, as the weather can be hot and humid. It is also a good idea to bring an umbrella, as it can rain at any time of year.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that you are prepared and comfortable when traveling to Asia.
Please feel free to reach out to me if you need any specialized coaching in travel planning or coordination or if you would like to engage me as a speaker on travel related topics at one of your future events! You can find travel related coaching information on my Travel Consulting & Planning page.
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