Exploring Asia: Unpacking the region’s irresistible appeal

Asia is a vast continent that is home to 48 different countries, each with a unique culture, cuisine, and way of life. Vietnam trips will offer an incredible experience full of natural beauty and rich history, whereas gastronomes should flock to Japan for its delicious cuisine.

Wherever you choose to visit, Asia has seen a rise in popularity in the wake of the pandemic, fueled by increased accessibility from the States. Let’s take a look at what you can expect when you visit Asia.

Vibrant cultural heritage and local immersion

Asian culture and history, broadly speaking, are very different from Western ways. If you want to fully immerse yourself in the local history, then Cambodia should be at the top of your bucket list. The ancient temples are second to none and transport you back to an era long gone.

Festivals can be an equally good way to immerse yourself in history, and Japan is a great example of this. The Chichibu Yomatsuri annual festival has been celebrated for over 300 years and features gigantic floats accompanied by live music.

Natural wonders and sustainable travels

From Ha Long Bay to the Himalayas and the rice terraces of Bali, there is scenery across Asia that will impress every traveler.

Eco-tourism has become a popular consideration when booking vacations. Public transport is the main way of getting around in a lot of Asian countries, automatically reducing your carbon footprint whilst away. Homestaying is the best way to cut costs on accommodation as well as get stuck into daily life.

Affordable luxury

If you compare currencies in Asia to the Euro or Dollar, your money goes a lot further in Asia. This allows for a more luxurious experience for a fraction of the cost.

You may want to splash out on a luxury hotel such as The Peninsula in Shanghai or Malabar Hill in Sri Lanka. With this comes experiences that you may not have been able to enjoy elsewhere, such as fine dining, excursions in the local area, and even spa days to rival the best in the world.

Culinary adventures

Food is often a main influence when booking a trip. Asian cuisine is incredibly varied by country as well as by different regions within those countries – you will be spoiled for choice!

Thailand’s street food is known globally as one of the best. Wander through the street markets at night and sample whatever you fancy as you go. For a sit-down meal, Japan’s sushi offerings can be up-scale or informal and easy.

Accessibility and connectivity

Asia has long been viewed as a faraway mystical place, but it has never been easier to travel from the US to different Asian countries.

Flying to Japan has never been simpler, with links to Tokyo, Osaka, and Hiroshima leaving from most major US cities. Japan Airlines offers around 1470 flights on average per week.

The same can be said for flights to Vietnam too. An increase in availability at affordable prices is helping to increase tourism and boost the local economy as well as interest in the country.