Asia

• Bahrain

  Bahrain literally means “two seas”, referring to the fact that the island once had a source of sweet water, giving anchorage, over the centuries, to fables, myths and mysteries. Legend has it that Bahrain was the Garden of Eden; fact or fiction, Bahrain has been proven to be the site of one of the oldest civilisations in the world, the Dilmun, who flourished about 2000 BCE. And while some of the country’s history still remains beneath the sands, what’s above ground is quite remarkable, starting with the city’s small and easy-to-manoeuvre layout. Its people are some of the best-educated and friendliest in the region, most of whom speak English. For a tiny country of 780 sq km, Bahrain has a fantastic way of welcoming visitors. Come here once and you’ll be back; make friends and they’ll be friends for life. There’s so much to do, that you will never have enough time before the sun sets. Enjoy world-class golf, beach resorts, five-star hotels, boating, antiquing and designer shopping as well as exploring many unique dining opportunities. Worth noting is one distinct difference between Bahrain and neighbouring countries (where alcohol is permitted in the first place): Bahrain allows independent restaurants – and not just hotels – to serve the hard stuff, making a night out at a restaurant here more “normal” (and economical). Much of Bahrain and its shores are aesthetically magnificent. Expect to be blown away by the aquamarine and opalescent tints of the bays, the deep blue of its skies and the fresh swaying green of the palms groves. HIstorical sights give way to modern skyscrapers and massive shopping malls, but there are still opportunities to visit the ancient souks and pick up souvenirs. You could also leave with a strand of Bahrain’s famous pearls – a keepsake of a lifetime.
• Bhutan

  Tiny Bhutan, nestled among the mightiest mountains in the world, is a land of dramatic scenery, prayer wheels, dzongs, ancient traditions, rice terraces and some of the most beautiful architecture you will ever see. A visit here will set you back a pretty penny, but because it’s not cheap, and visas (valid for 30 days) aren’t a dime a dozen, you can expect a serene and relatively exclusive visit to this magical, Buddhist kingdom, where the pace of life and daily routines are remarkably different from those of the world at large. The overused word, awesome, best describes what to expect. The best time to visit – in terms of weather and annual festivals – is March through May, or September through November. You’ll fly into Paro (the country’s only international airport and also its capital), and from this historic town, you’ll no doubt make several day trips to some of the most popular sights to see. Head off to Thimphu, by all means, and a domestic flight will get you to Bumthang, the religious heartland of the nation and home to some of its oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries. Noteworthy is that there are a lot of “rules” you’ll have to follow, upon arrival if you do, indeed, visit; here’s an overview, subject to change, of course. Solo travel is not permitted. You will need to be part of a tour group. Then, there is a “Minimum Daily Package” rate; in high season it’s about $300 a day, a little less for couples or larger groups. The money will get you three-star accommodation, transfers and meals. You’ll be assigned to a hotel as per your tour operator’s choice. But – since the operator won’t want to lose your business – if the hotel they choose doesn’t appeal, say so and stand your ground. If you can swing it, book in with Six Senses, Amankora or any others in this ilk and travel from lodge to lodge in splendour.
• Cambodia

  Most visitors to Cambodia come for Angkor – to see the sunrise at this vast (the world’s biggest), legendary temple complex. Emerging from the jungle is unforgettable (as long as you hire a guide to steer you away from the tourist hotspots). After you’ve seen the big three temples – Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm – it’s worth seeking out a few lesser known ones such as Ta Keo, Ta Som and the small but exquisite Banteay Srei. These are about 45 minutes by car from Siem Reap, the former Khmer village and gateway to Angkor. Now Cambodia’s second city with several top hotels, it retains a laid-back charm. Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh is more frenetic with a vibrant riverside area on the banks of the Mekong river and the twin architectural attractions of the Royal Palace and the adjacent Silver Pagoda. Nearby, the National Museum of Cambodia offers peaceful gardens and impressive Khmer artworks. Away from the famous temples and the main cities, Cambodia is refreshingly undeveloped, and there are many other fascinating spots packed with Khmer culture. At the heart of this welcoming South-East Asian country lies Tonlé Sap lake with its fascinating floating villages and abundant wildlife. Beach resorts have cropped up in the south, the most well known being Sihanoukville, which has the reputation of a party town. If that’s not your scene, Kampot is a waterside enclave on the Gulf of Thailand. It’s known for its pepper, which pairs nicely with the famed crab from nearby coastal town Kep. Or try the Koh Rong archipelago, where Cambodia’s first five-star private island resort has the bonus of being ecologically friendly and supportive of the local community.
• China

  China is vast, varied and beautiful, with a population of nearly 1.5 billion. Its history, cultures and traditions span more than 3,000 years – the oldest continuous civilisation on Earth – and the sheer variety of landscapes, flora and fauna is mind-boggling. From the ancient Great Wall to the Terracotta Warriors there are many world-famous sites on mainland China to see. Regional cuisine styles are a foodie’s dream and hyper-modern cities such as Hong Kong are havens for shopping.Mainland China has inspired travellers for centuries. To the north lie the windswept steppes of Mongolia, while in the south are the balmy islands of the South China Sea. To the west there are the soaring mountains of the Himalayas, and in the east the valleys and plains of China's mightiest rivers. The first Chinese Emperor sought to unite ‘all things under heaven’, and China’s almost endless array of man-made and natural wonders – including some of the greatest spectacles on Earth – offer the perfect combination for a full and varied trip.Seeing the Great Wall of China – stretching 8,851km in total – is a must, as is a visit to see the different ranks of soldiers, the chariots and the horses of the Terracotta Warriors near the fabled city of Xi'an, one of the oldest in China. For breathtaking beauty, don’t miss the Li river, which winds its way through stunning landscapes, while the bamboo forests of Sichuan are a good place to see China’s charismatic pandas.The diversity of China's cities is equally impressive. The capital, Beijing, once choked with smog but now enjoying clearer skies thanks to the largest air-purification system in the world, is home to such awe-inspiring sights as the Forbidden City, the world's largest palace, and the imposing Tiananmen Square. Shanghai is a modern metropolis, where the fast pace is matched only by the rate at which the impressive, futuristic skyscrapers climb. And for less obvious points of call, visit the newest hotspots such as Chengdu, or head to the verdant and breathtaking city of Guilin, which is renowned for its lakes and mountains.Whether you want to engage with history or savour fantastic food, seek out natural wonders or embrace regional traditions, China deserves exploring in depth.
• Colombia

  You don’t need to be a travel expert to know that Columbia hasn’t always been hot on a list of countries to explore. And not because it has little to offer, quite the contrary as it tums out, but rather Pablo Escobar and others in his league made sure that visitors stayed well away. He’s been dead for almost three decades now, and while some areas of the country remain on the no-go list, you can be reasonably sure that a visit to the top three cities: Bogata, Medellin and Cartagena are pretty safe bets. As some of the most exciting destinations on our recommended “to do” list for many of the intrepid travellers we know; read on... Bogata, the capital, remains somewhat sketchy, especially at night. Proceed with caution, but don’t let it put you off. New restaurants, cafes, boutique hotels and craft breweries are everywhere to be found and clever, forward-thinking tour guides offer off-the-beaten-track exploratory excursions which give guests an exciting opportunity to get to know the city and its people. Serendipitous tours like those that explore street art, food fascination and Columbian politics should appeal. If you’re into street art (and we sure are), Bogota’s decision in 2011 to decriminalise graffiti opened up a new and uber exciting underground art world. In 2013, Medellin was voted the world’s most innovative city. It certainly has a shady past, but those days are long gone, and today there’s heaps of art, sculpture and tourism pursuits to enjoy. Interestingly, the artist and sculptor, Fernando Botero, hails from here. His sculptures are found throughout town and in the Museum of Antioquia (even if Bogota’s Botero Museum has more). Cartagena is one of the most fabulous colonial cities in Latin America and needs to be a stop on every itinerary.
• India

  Colourful and chaotic, India is often described as an assault on all the senses, and any visitor will immediately agree. Even allowing for the pampered confines of luxury hotels and escorted tours, this is not a place for the faint-hearted. But dive in and you’ll be richly rewarded by the compelling culture, astounding architecture and fabulous food. This massive subcontinent is broadly divided between the dry, dusty north and the humid, lush south. In the north the frenetic capital of Delhi, together with “the pink city” Jaipur and Agra, home to the astonishing Taj Mahal, form the Golden Triangle – many a traveller’s first taste of India. Spectacular Mughal architecture, typified by the Taj Mahal, is dotted throughout the north. Rajasthan, India’s largest state and synonymous with maharajas, has an impressive array of fortresses and palaces in the beguiling cities of Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur. The region also has copious wildlife, from birds and butterflies to monkeys and tigers, and so is a good spot for safaris and nature excursions. Further north is the mountainous, sometimes snowy Himachal Pradesh region, including the cooling hill station of Shimla. To the east is Varanasi, on the banks of the sacred Ganges, and further afield Kolkata, the former British capital where fine colonial-era architecture remains. On the west coast lies sprawling Mumbai, the film and fashion centre of India, and further south the beach resorts of Goa and the more serene Kerala. The latter, perhaps the gentlest introduction to India, has the added attraction of beautiful backwaters – best explored by converted rice boat. With a huge population comes a diversity of religions – Hindu, Muslim and Sikh being the main ones – and languages (around 30). The varied cuisine is also influenced by religion, geography, climate and health (via the traditional Indian practice of Ayurveda). Nationwide, though, vegetarian food is prevalent, making it one of the best destinations for veggies. With so much to experience there’s a temptation to pack in too much but resist: several trips are better than one that may leave you templed outing and with fort fatigue.
• Indonesia

  What makes Indonesia such a fascinating destination is its sheer variety. The country has the fourth-largest population on the planet and there are more than 300 different ethnicities. Some 17,000 islands extend 5,000km around the equator and they feature an incredible geographical diversity. Glorious white-sand beaches, dense jungles and volcanic landscapes scoured clean of vegetation by lava flows are just the start. With this comes the greatest levels of biodiversity to be found anywhere on Earth. So intriguing, you could spend a lifetime exploring Indonesia’s treasures and still discover something new on each visit. By far the most popular and famous destination in Indonesia is the stunning island of Bali, which attracts visitors with its unique culture, striking natural landscapes and gorgeous beaches. Those seeking an exciting metropolis should consider Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, on the island of Java. You may be surprised to learn that only Tokyo is larger and more populated than this bustling city. For a more relaxed vibe, head to the Gili Islands, where you'll find the culture is one practically devoted to maintaining a chilled-out ambience and a resistance to the overdevelopment that has begun to affect other tourist hotspots. To list all the different experiences that you could encounter across Indonesia’s islands would take a lifetime, but this means there is something to suit all tastes. While exploring Indonesia you’ll have opportunities to encounter a richness of wildlife that is almost unparalleled across the globe (only Australia has a greater number of endemic species of flora and fauna). For a real adventure, head into the great jungles of Borneo to meet our ‘cousins’, the charismatic orangutans. Or head to the Komodo National Park, where dragons gather on the shores of the namesake island. Meanwhile, the water positively teams with life, as the coral seas produce a bounty of incredible sights for divers of all levels to uncover. Across all the landscapes is a richness of culture and people that makes Indonesia stand out. Each have their own language, heritage and cuisine that will suit those seeking authentic experiences. Wonder at the technical prowess of Balinese dancers. Be amazed at the skill of the practitioners of silat, traditional Indonesian martial arts, at the schools on Java. And delight at the wealth of delicious street food to be found at almost at every turn. All this and much more awaits you.
• Japan

  Japan is a feast for the senses. Whether you're in a densely populated metropolis, a tiny village or exploring the sublime and varied landscape, unforgettable sights, sounds, smells and tastes await you. It is a place that straddles time: there are few countries that strive towards the future and have embraced the aesthetics of modernity so enthusiastically yet proudly maintain their past traditions. Japan has done it in a manner that seems practically seamless. The sheer variety of experience on offer in Japan is breathtaking. Glittering Tokyo, with its skyscrapers and pulsing energy, is the largest, most bustling city on the planet. It’s practically a country unto itself and has defined the image of futuristic conurbations for decades. However, don’t ignore other Japanese cities. Kyoto is the spiritual heart of Japan, where the romance and traditions derived from centuries of history are still alive in the awe-inspiring temples, immaculate tea gardens and gorgeous geisha houses. Osaka, the city of merchants, is legendary as the foodie hub of Japan. The list goes on, because every city in Japan really has a unique character and experiences to be explored. The natural splendours of Japan are of equal renown, having served as inspiration for artists from both East and West for centuries. Whether it's the glorious majesty of Mount Fuji, the haunting forests of Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge, or the tropical calm of southern islands such as Okinawa, there is a tranquil, sublime beauty to every inch of the countryside. Cuisine and culture are tightly woven together in Japan, and the food and restaurant industry of the country is legendary the world over. The traditional tea ceremony has been perfected and mastered over hundreds of years, and there are few things more soothing than taking part in such an event. While sushi, ramen and teppanyaki may have become firm favourites around the world, there is simply no better place to sample these gourmet delights. However, don't miss the chance to try more obscure foods, such as the amazing okonomiyaki pancakes, or freshly fried takoyaki octopus. The high standards maintained in almost every Japanese eatery, from modest hole-in-the-walls to the most glamorous, exclusive restaurants, mean you will be hard-pressed to find a place that doesn't serve amazing food. And wash it down with an incredible choice of saki, beer or excellent Japanese whisky. Kanpai!
• Laos

  Situated between Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia in the south, and Myanmar and China to the north, little, landlocked Laos is often overlooked in favour of its glitzier neighbours. But it would be a mistake to miss this stunningly beautiful, deeply spiritual country, home to lumbering limestone mountains, verdant jungle valleys, vast cave systems, rolling rivers, rare wildlife, ancient Buddhist monasteries and some of the most welcoming people in Asia. The main international portal to the country is Luang Prabang, once the capital of Laos and still considered its spiritual heart. A beguiling blend of French Indochine architecture, royal palaces and Theravada Buddhist temples awaits. Allow at least a few days to explore its bougainvillaea-lined streets, cool roadside cafés, arts and crafts scene and Unesco-protected sites. From here, most visitors strike out for the dramatic mountain, cave and riverscapes of Vang Vieng, Thakhék and Savannakhet, or gravitate towards the sleepy charms, easy pace and superb cuisine of Vientiane. However, those willing to venture deeper into Laos’s wondrous countryside will reap the rewards, including the chance to see many different tribes, each clad in their distinct, brightly embroidered costumes, populating the higher elevations. For trekking, kayaking and wildlife adventures there’s Nong Kwiah, the Nam Ou river and Nam Et-Phou Louey national park, where you can take an overnight safari in search of rare beasts, such as sun bears, clouded leopards, civets, marble cats and white-cheeked gibbons. Or if lolling down the river on a bamboo raft is more your thing, try the 4,000 Islands, a scattering of pretty green isles located along the Mekong in the far south of the country. While Laos remains communist, it is also a country in flux, with new, off-the-grid experiences and gorgeous hotels, plenty at the upper end of the market. And while change is inevitable (and for the most part welcome), there’s a definite air of ‘get there now’.
• Malaysia

  Affectionately known as ‘Asia in miniature’, the beautiful kingdom of Malaysia encapsulates a little bit of everything that the vast and diverse continent has to offer. A rich culture, striking scenery – including lush forests that are a haven for wildlife, beautiful beaches and non-stop city action – are all here for the taking. Efficient transport links make Malaysia easy to get around, too, which is another reason why you should make your trip here a multi-centre stay. You may find yourself never wanting to leave. Malaysia's slogan, ‘Truly Asia’, is particularly apt when it comes to the cultures that make up its society. Sitting at the point where the Indian Ocean meets the South China Sea, it brings together influences from across almost all of Asia: the diverse Chinese cultures, both Muslim and Hindu Indian, an influx from Arabic nations as far back as the Persian Empire, colonial European intrusions – plus a bedrock of the fiercely proud and protected Malay culture. Visitors to East Malaysia will also have the opportunity to explore the tribal societies that still occupy the Bornean rainforest, where contemporary globalisation has only recently begun to intrude on traditions and ways of life that have gone unchanged for millennia. The result is a rich multitude of traditions, festivals and cuisines. This variety can be equally applied to Malaysia's geography. Those seeking fantastic views and soaring peaks will find them at Kinabalu National Park, whereas you’ll find gorgeous beaches all along the country's coasts and islands, most notably on luxurious Langkawi and the chilled-out Perhentians. This geographical diversity has produced a biodiversity to match. The rainforest of Borneo – the oldest in the world – is home to some of the rarest animals in Asia, including Asian elephants, Sumatran rhinoceroses and, of course, the utterly charming orangutan. Just off the north-east coast is the coral island Sipadan, where the sea around this speck of land is one of the richest and most bountiful in the world and among the greatest places on the planet to go diving. If you just want city life, then the country's splendid capital, Kuala Lumpur, is one of the great modern metropolises, with its fantastic architecture, which can be easily explored due to an infrastructure that puts other cities in Southeast Asia to shame.
• Myanmar

  Start your Myanmar adventure in Yangon (formerly the capital Rangoon). Outside on the busy streets you’ll see sights that will make you look twice, maybe three times, from buses literally overhanging with locals, to men with horribly red-stained teeth from all the betel nut they’ve chewed. Amid the crumbling, 19th-century British colonial buildings you’ll find many that are beautifully restored, but it’s the diamond-studded Shwedagon Pagoda and the Sule Pagoda that are the star attractions in town. As is Karaweik Palace, the royal-style barge on the shore of Kandawgyi Lake. Feast your eyes on Burmese royal regalia and cultural relics at the National Museum and pick up your own treasures – local handicrafts, art and jewellery – at the sprawling and somewhat touristy Bogyoke Aung San Market. If you know what to look for, there are bargains to be had on antiques and gems. Meanwhile in Bagan, the archaeological Buddhist temples total more than 2,000, many of which tower above the green landscapes and treetops – a spectacular sight. Visit the impressive Ananda temple and pick up some souvenir lacquered bowls or parasols. The lacquerware art has been a tradition here for centuries. Bagan is also the starting point for several luxury cruises along the Ayeyarwady (also known as the Irrawaddy) river, where you can spend several days on board enjoying guided cultural tours ashore. Not to mention travelling through captivating rural and jungle scenery; passing locals working the fields with ox and cart; fisherman going about their daily catch in little wooden boats; and village kids playing in the shallows – it’s like stepping back in time. The cruises are usually on their way to Mandalay, the last royal capital of Myanmar, where there’s more Buddhist heritage to discover. Visit the Mahamuni Buddha temple and take a trip to Inwa, where you can tour the temples and monasteries of the ancient imperial capital of Burmese kingdoms from the 14th to 19th centuries.
• Philippines

  Spread across an archipelago of more than 7,500 islands, there’s a veritable bounty of geographical wonders in the Philippines, from rugged volcanic landscapes and verdant mountains covered with tiered rice paddies, to sprawling megacities, charming villages and fantastic beaches. But it’s the Filipino culture and influences of centuries of Spanish and American colonial rule that set this nation apart. The coast of the Philippines is the main appeal. With more than 22,000 miles of it, there’s a beach to suit every taste. Want fantastic diving? Head to El Nido on the western isle of Palawan for the bountiful seas of the Philippines’ largest marine reserve. Maybe surfing is more to your taste, and in recent years the Philippines has become a hotspot with some of the best surfers in the world praising the waves around Siargao island to the east. If you simply want to chill out on gorgeous expanses of white sand there are choices galore, from deserted islands to developed resorts. Inland, the beauty of the Philippines continues. The Banaue rice terraces are one of the finest examples of tiered rice fields in the world. Almost every possible surface of the Ifugao mountains, no matter how small and seemingly inaccessible, are covered in paddies that have been cultivated for more than 1,500 years. The charming conical Chocolate Hills of Bohol and the surrounding forests are home to an amazing array of biodiversity, most notably the charismatically wide-eyed tarsiers. Even sprawling megacities such as Manila have a metropolitan magnetism that's sure to please city slickers. Then there’s the Filipino people and culture. There are 175 recognised ethnic groups in the Philippines and, while centuries of Catholic missionary work under Spanish rule and later the influences of American colonialism have caused their identities to be diluted, it means there’s a fascinating mix of cultures. Filipino cuisine is poised to become the next big thing, praised by critics such as Anthony Bourdain (American chef, author and television personality), and queens of healthy eating the Hemsley sisters, who are half Filipino. With Filipino people being famed for their warm hospitality, prepare to embrace the opportunity to share their food culture, traditions and celebrations.
• Republic of Korea

  A visit to South Korea promises an exciting adventure, especially if this is your first visit. Expect cities boasting design-forward skyscrapers, modern transportation and futuristic plazas juxtaposed with ancient Buddhist temples, villages and palaces. Seoul will probably be your point of entry, and it’s a good place to get comfortable with the culture. You’ll have heard of the stylish Gangnam area of town – after K-Pop (Korean Pop) PSY’s uber-popular hit: Gangnam Style – which includes Gangnam-gu, Seopo-gu and Songpa-gu, the richest neighbourhoods in Seoul. This trendy district with its posh nightclubs, shopping options and diverse dining (plus an ancient Buddhist temple) is probably a good place to start exploring the city. A few things not to miss in town are the Gyeongbokgung Palace, a beautiful example of ancient local architecture; the Namdaemun Market which dates back to 1414 and is, hence, the oldest in the country; the Bukchon Hanok Village which dates back over 600 years; and the chance to go for a hike in the Bukhansan National Park. Take your time here to soak up the scenery including views of Seoul and the nearby Triangle Mountain. After Seoul, head to the beautiful city of Busan, about two hours away by train. The nightlife may not be quite as exciting, but the beaches and temples are worth the visit alone. Next on your list may be the DMZ, where North and South Korean forces stand face-to-face. You’ll need to book on an official tour to do this, but JSA (Joint Security Area) tours enable you to set foot in North Korea – if that’s important to you. Kimchi may be the only Korean food you’re familiar with, but upscale restaurants, as well as barbecue joints and street food options, abound. Check out popular staple dishes including beef short ribs, spicy pork and chicken bulgogi. A visit to a traditional tea house is a must.
• Singapore

  Much of what makes Singapore a pleasant and desirable place is often also held against the city state: it’s unbelievably clean and surprisingly safe for a major metropolis with lush, manicured foliage as a backdrop to gleaming skyscrapers. Look beyond that and you’ll find a fascinating mix of cultures as the trilingual signposts and the presence of Chinatown and Little India attest. This melting pot manifests superbly in the street food, best enjoyed in the sanitised confines of a hawker centre, while great shopping opportunities and a handful of exciting attractions make Singapore a gentle introduction to Southeast Asia.
• South Africa

  South Africa is a destination that instantly propels you from everything that’s familiar to a world of adventure, wild scenery and vibrant culture. Authentic, unique and inspirational experiences abound. Enjoy wildlife encounters on safari, historic journeys in Cape Town and Johannesburg and fabulous gastronomic moments in some of the world’s most renowned wineries. At its heart is the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town. A popular sightseeing destination, you can easily spend a few days here. The cable-car ride up Table Mountain – camera in hand – is almost expected, while shopping and lunching at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a delight and a trip to Robben Island prison is certainly thought-provoking. To feel the sand between your toes, head for one of the beaches such as Camps Bay. It’s an affluent suburb and a nice place to enjoy the Atlantic, meet the locals and sample some beachside cafes. There’s whale-watching along the Cape too, or enjoy a round of golf on one of the fine courses. From the city, drive out along the Garden Route – a stunning ensemble of floral beauty – passing wild beaches, sparkling lakes and rolling hills en route. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, horse riding, penguin-spotting and more. If you enjoy the gourmet food scene, the Winelands are a must. Begin with a vineyard tour, then savour a special lunch of fresh Cape cuisine accompanied by a select bottle of wine as you gaze out at the picturesque valley scenery. At least once in your lifetime, a safari is highly recommended, and Johannesburg is often the place to embark on an onward adventure to the bushlands. The city has shaken off its reputation as somewhere to pass through as quickly as possible, and a couple of days can be spent exploring the arts scene, political heritage and local townships such as Soweto. It’s a springboard to top wilderness destinations including Kruger National Park and the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. The winter months of May to September are good for game drives and tracking animals, including lions, elephants and rhino, and with the help of an expert tracker it’ll be one of life’s most thrilling experiences. Along with birdwatching, stargazing, sundowners and dinner around the boma, this part of the world will leave you with memories that will last for ever.
• Taiwan

  In 2019, Taiwan was listed as the happiest place in East Asia, and it’s easy to see why. The topography of the small island is surprisingly varied: there are over a hundred mountain peaks perfect for outdoor adventure, as many hot springs, several golden and black-sand beaches and an astounding nine national parks. Of course, there’s superb high-end shopping in the cities and the sixth-most visited museum in the world – the National Palace Museum – located in Taipei. As the largest city in the country, New Taipei boasts glittering skyscrapers, stunning temples and a plethora of night markets. Taiwan’s complex history is noteworthy, as it helps in understanding the current, ambiguous political situation. Indigenous Taiwanese first inhabited the island until it was colonised by the Dutch and then the Spanish in the 17th century. In 1895, it fell under the rule of the Japanese, and then, finally, in 1945 The Republic of China took the island back. That blend of traditions and values remains till today, and in Taipei anyway, almost everyone speaks English. Buddhism and Taoism are the country’s main religions, and there are many stunning temples to visit everywhere you go, in fact more than 12,000 of them in the country. With that being said, it’s not an easy task to list the must-see ones, but here are a few you probably should include on your list, both in Taipei: the Baoan Temple and the Lungshan Temple. One more thing, don’t miss the chance to ride up to the observation decks of Taipei 101 which, at 508 metres, was the world’s tallest building until the Burj Khalifa opened in Dubai in 2009.
• Thailand

  The beaches of party islands Koh Samui and Phuket have been pleasing holidaymakers for decades. But if you like things low-key, there are much quieter beaches tucked away on tropical peninsulas, blissfully sheltered by limestone karsts. For your urban fix, Bangkok is pretty full-on, while for a complete contrast, there are jungle adventures and cultural trips into northern villages amongst the rice paddies. Don’t leave until you’ve tried two specialties: an authentic Thai massage (the pain is worth the gain you’ll feel the next day); and a Thai curry with sticky rice, to see why Thai is nicknamed ‘the king of cuisines’. As the main gateway to the country and a popular stopover en route further east, the bustling capital of Bangkok is great for a few days to soak up the city’s frenetic energy, colourful sights and sounds. After you’ve shopped ‘til you’ve dropped in the malls and markets, famous for picking up great value products, including Thai silks fashioned into cushion covers, handbags and dresses, go sightseeing. From gilded temples to cruises on the Chao Phraya river and floating markets, there’s plenty to see. If you’ve a head for heights, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to have drinks and dinner at one of the sky-high rooftop restaurants and see Bangkok lit up at night. Bangkok is all a bit fast and noisy, so after you’ve seen the sights, hit the beaches and unwind. You’ll find the best are in the south. If you’re after quiet beach resorts, try Hua Hin, Krabi or one of the island resorts off the coast of Phuket. To really absorb the country’s rich cultural offerings, head north to the city of Chiang Mai—Thailand’s northern capital. Venture towards the mountainous landscapes, countryside, lush valleys and rice paddies, and there are authentic villages, several hundred temples, and orchid farms waiting to wow you. It’s also the place to observe local traditions such as a khantoke dinner and traditional dancing. There’s a great night market for quality arts and crafts including the local wooden carved bowls. If you’re looking for a more off the beaten track adventure, treks in the jungle can be had further north in Chiang Rai, a relaxed riverside city known as part of the Golden Triangle where Thailand meets Laos and Myanmar. Whilst here, the White Temple—like no other temple you may have seen—is quite a spectacle.
• United Arab Emirates

  Futuristic Dubai and neighbouring Abu Dhabi (the capital) are two destinations everyone’s heard of and probably visited once or twice for some sun and the chance to experience some of the world’s biggest and best of everything. But few of even the savviest travellers will know the names of the other five emirates which make up the seven United Arab Emirates: Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain, all of which warrant a visit for some added adventure. The statement ‘build it and they will come’ never held truer than here in the UAE, in Dubai and in Abu Dhabi specifically, home to all things extreme, bold, fantastic and downright awe-inspiring. The tallest building in the world, Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, is well worth the US $40 ticket price to get to the top (although those with even the slightest touch of vertigo should stay away). The city’s Burj Al Arab has been welcoming the rich and famous for twenty years and continues to boast the most awesome experience in town, especially with the recent addition of its 10,000 sq m “terrace”, which combines swimming pools, cabanas, a bar and restaurant into one fantastic facility. The 5,000-ton wooden structure was constructed in Finland and brought over by ship in eight pieces. Yes, wow. About an hour’s drive from Dubai (traffic’s an issue) is Abu Dhabi, where culture is king. The Louvre boasts an outstanding collection of art and civilisation housed within a building by Jean Nouvel resembling a giant silver spacecraft. The Frank Ghery designed Guggenheim has yet to open, but a visit to the Ferrari-owned indoor theme park in Abu Dhabi should get your adrenalin pumping. The rollercoaster, the Rosso, is the world’s fastest, reaching 150mph in 5 seconds. Of course, there are many fine places to stay in town, but a night or two at the Mandarin Oriental’s Emirates Palace Hotel is something you’ll never forget. There are opportunities to dip into the heritage of the land, although you won’t see much unless you make it your business to do so. There are museums and a few restaurants that offer a glimpse into life before oil. A drive to Fujairah, for example, will take you through glorious mountain ranges and some little towns and villages. There are some decent hotels on the beach here, but Ras Al-Khaimah, on the other side of the peninsula, has more posh options when it comes to places to stay. Wherever you head in the UAE, watersports and beaches are a focus, as is shopping, desert adventure and some of the best dining options the world has to offer. Beware, however, that while you’ll be able to get a drink everywhere you go (except in Sharjah), alcohol is only served in 5-star hotels and is, to boot, eye-wateringly expensive.
• Vietnam

  With its stunning scenery, beautiful beaches and tasty food, Vietnam has a lot to offer. The South-East Asian country adjoins China in the north, curves around Laos, Thailand and Cambodia in the west, and has more than 2,000 miles of coastline on the South China Sea. Vietnam’s long, slim shape also means it has three distinct climates – in the north, centre and south. Elegant Hanoi in the north has French colonial architecture and tree-lined boulevards mixed with ancient alleys and Chinese shophouses. Some three hours away is Halong Bay, the ultra-photogenic collection of limestone islands soaring out of the emerald-green sea. You’ll want to spend a night onboard a boat here, but don’t expect to have the bay to yourself. Central Vietnam offers picture-perfect towns such as Hue, the former imperial centre on the Perfume river, and Hoi An with its narrow streets full of merchant buildings strewn with lanterns. The beaches in this area are beautiful, and there are numerous luxurious resort hotels to choose from, particularly near Nha Trang. Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) in the south is as bustling as it gets, but you can find refuge from the crowds in the burgeoning crop of fashion and interiors stores and galleries. All across Vietnam food is a big draw, characterised by refreshing flavours of lime juice, lemongrass, chilli, fish sauce and palm sugar. An authentic way to try the cuisine is from street stalls. Popular dishes are spring rolls – fresh and soft, or crispy and deep-fried; banh mi (baguettes, a legacy from the French); and the nation’s most famous dish, pho (pronounced fir), a noodle soup. Further south, the Mekong Delta is dominated by the mighty Mekong river. Book a luxury boutique cruise to get a glimpse of the tiny waterside villages on stilts and floating markets – a world away from the cities.