Asia is a fascinating, mysterious and intriguing continent. Its diverse population, incredible culture, history, unique traditions, and religions have won the curiosity of travelers from all over the world. For those who dream of discovering the Orient, a universe that is parallel but very different from ours, here is a list of the 10 Asian countries that you really have to discover at least once in your life. From Maldives to Sri Lanka, from Thailand to Cambodia.
Take a look at cheap flights to your preferred destination and pack your suitcase, one of these paradises awaits you!
1. Indonesia
Composed by more than 17,000 islands, along 2 oceans, this archipelago with 150 volcanoes is the transcontinental state (since it belongs to two continents: Asia and Oceania) most Muslim in the world. The most popular and populated islands, Java, Bali, and Lombok, are a portrait of the beauty of Mother Nature, with spectacular beaches and offer a complete immersion in its mysterious history, thanks to its Buddhist temples and archaeological ruins of ancestral cultures. A trip to a country where many religions coexist thanks to the link with the ancestors and where there is still a sense of innate curiosity towards the visitor. Expect some "Dari mana?" (Where do you come from?) And "Mau kemana?" (Where are you going?) Wherever you go.
2. Sri Lanka
Immersed in warm, crystal clear waters and surrounded by pristine beaches, Sri Lanka is known as the Tear of the Indian Ocean, due to its particular teardrop shape. This tropical island, with its impenetrable jungle and its tea plantations, hosts an extraordinary biodiversity: elephants, leopards, lions, monkeys, crocodiles, cobras and much more. Going into its fascinating exoticism, you can admire the prehistoric rock in the interior Sigiriya, which stands as a sacred totem and is considered by many as the eighth wonder of the world. On the other hand, you have a lot of temples to explore, you can be encouraged to experience Ayurvedic medicine, browse the batik workshops and do meditation in Buddhist shrines. Warning: if you don't like spices, you will have a lot of difficulty eating, because it's the kingdom of curry and cinnamon! However, this is also the beauty of the trip, try new things!
3. Japan
This magical archipelago is the place with the highest life expectancy in the world. The "Land of the rising sun" has been able to overcome the abundant dramatic moments of its history and flourish, like its beautiful cherry trees in spring. Its extraordinary and healthy cuisine has recently been considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO (not only sushi but also other dishes such as tempura, ramen, sashimi...) and its way of life, completely different from ours, deserves to be discovered in all its facets. Discover the natural beauty of Mount Fuji, the lovely Kyoto with its temples and pagodas, the castles scattered everywhere and the beautiful village of Shirakawa Go, which has retained the traditional style, with the thatched roofs of the houses. Technology and comics lovers will enjoy the Akihabara district in Tokyo. It's really a trip for everyone!
4. United Arab Emirates
Formerly known as the Pirate Coast, now the Emirates are recognized for their luxury, modernity, and elegance. Abu Dhabi and Dubai are examples of fun, sophistication, and charm. Dazzling skyscrapers and old flavor souks blend to perfection. In the big hotels of the city, canopy beds and computers in the rooms are the norms! However, Emirates is more: beaches and mountains, desert, Bedouin and coral reefs. It's a must for diving lovers, who have to know the magic of the Indian Ocean. Don't forget the west coast, beautiful and infinite.
5. Singapore
Singapore is a city-state with a very diverse population, composed mainly of ethnic Chinese, Indian and Malay. It's a lively metropolis, headquarters of financial companies and full of stockbrokers, it's also a place to discover very different scents and flavors. The temples of Little India and Chinatown are spectacular, as is their street food. You can also do many outdoor activities such as strolling through the botanical garden, Marina Bay or
MacRitchie, a national reserve where you can see monkeys and enjoy a fabulous tropical setting from a suspension bridge. Be careful: you can't eat in the subway, or smoke (even outdoors), feed the animals, or urinate in the street, or cross other places other than zebra crossings and try to avoid drugs if you don't want to incur the death penalty. Oh, remember to also pull the chain if you don't want a fine of $ 150.
6. Philippines
This archipelago of 7107 islands is a box of surprises for any traveler. In addition to the beaches of golden sand, such as those of the beautiful island of Malapascua, in the Philippines, you will find beautiful landscapes that will cut your breath. From the islands of the Bacuit archipelago, the famous El Nido, to the paddies of the Ifugao region, passing through the chocolate hills of Bohol, the Philippines is magical! Those who love diving will find a paradise, because this country is one of the best to practice sports, like surfing, with places like Siargao or Baler in the world top. What are you waiting to discover this exciting country? Mabuhay!
7. Israel
The charm of Israel is undoubted. Here the 3 main monotheistic religions are rooted: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, which is why some of the most important places of worship in the world are also located. Take a flight to Tel Aviv and discover its incredible nightlife and artistic vitality. Especially, thanks to the small size of the country (smaller than Switzerland), you can travel to other cities using buses and the famous shared taxis or sherut. Once in Jerusalem, you shouldn't stop going to the Wailing Walland to take a romantic walk Paseo Hass at sunset. Sea lovers will enjoy the Israeli coast, bathed by the Mediterranean, which is fully equipped. Undoubtedly, this trip will satisfy the thirst for discovery of any traveling soul.
8. Cambodia
This ancient and surprising pearl of Southeast Asia is one of the favorite destinations of travelers. Famous for its wat (religious buildings), the magical temples of Angkor and the rich Khmer cultural tradition, Cambodia has landscapes of great beauty: jungle, waterfalls, and rivers. Among the fishing villages on the south coast, near the entrance to the National Park of Ream, you can find traces of its turbulent past. If you decide to come in the rainy season, you can warm up the "gourmet" gastronomic offer, among which stand out the steaming soup of cobra with whiskey and rice, the fried tarantulas or the grilled mice, which are considered real delicacies. You can also reject it, but it's a unique opportunity!
9. Thailand
If you are looking for a piece of paradise, you will find it on the Thai islands. Turquoise waters, white sand and a gastronomy famous all over the world: these are the characteristics of one of the best-known destinations. In addition to the lively nightlife of Bangkok and Phuket, this is where you can see untouched corners of Asia such as An Thong, the marine park where the film "La Playa" was filmed, by Leonardo DiCaprio, or the unknown islands of the Sea of Andamans. If you decide to take this trip and travel with Thai Airways, you will be smelling the sweet smell of orchids even before getting off the plane.
10. Maldives
Let's tell the truth, who hasn't dreamed of a trip to the Maldives? However, choosing among the 1190 islands of the archipelago is an arduous task. Choose the one you choose, we recommend you dive in the heart of the Indian Ocean, with more than 1000 species of fish and molluscs, to better appreciate the beauty of this country. The wide area allows you to always make a diverse itinerary and not only visit white sand atolls, but also look for adventures, hiking, and diving. Warning: being topless on the beach is not allowed, nor practicing nudism (there are $ 1000 fines). It's forbidden to introduce in the country any type of drug, alcohol, pornography, and pork. However, simply eating and drinking from a coconut is totally allowed.
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