The largest continent in the world, Asia has much to offer to travelers and backpackers. Great food, stunning architecture, and a rich and diverse culture.
For beginner travelers, Asia is also one of the easiest to conquer. Here’s what you need to know.
Adventure
For adventure junkies, Asia, and especially Southeast Asia is a haven. There is just so much to do.
1. Beach Day With Dragons
Alright, maybe not dragons, but Komodo dragons. You can have a beach day with komodo dragons in Indonesia. You take a hike through Komodo Island in East Nusa Tenggara in Indonesia.
2. Climbing the Highest
Not afraid of heights? How does being up at 11,800 feet sound? Climb the world’s largest Via Ferrata of Mount Kinabalu in Malaysia.
3. Kayaking
You can go on a kayaking expedition in Cambodia or Vietnam. The waterways here are some of the most stunning ones in Asia.
4. Ziplining
Few things are as thrilling as ziplining. In Thailand, you can experience this first hand in Ko Pha Ngan island. The experience is as unforgettable as you would imagine.
Animals
There are some stunning wildlife adventures and animals you can see on your trip to Asia. Some are rare while some are majestic.
1. Pangolins
These creatures are as beautiful as they’re odd to look at. Unfortunately, Pangolins do not have it easy as they’re one of the most poached animals in the world.
2. The Tarsius Tarsier
Found in Indonesian islands. These small primates are bug-eyed hunters mostly active at night.
3. Indian Elephants
Large, gentle, and majestic are probably the only ways to describe these gentle giants. You can see them up close in Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Asian Architecture
Architecture in Asia is a diverse mix of traditional and ancient structures to ultra-modern and groundbreaking feats in engineering.
1. Taj Mahal
We cannot talk about architecture in Asia without mentioning the Taj Mahal in Agra, India. It’s an ivory-white marble mausoleum and is said to be one of the greatest symbols of love.
2. Lotus Temple
The temple is built with 127 white marble pellets shaped to look like a lotus. People of all faiths are welcomed here – no restraints which are in line with the Baha’i faith, oneness of mankind.
3. Angkor
This UNESCO Heritage Site dates back to the Khmer civilization and was built in the 12th century. It spans over an area of 400 acres and is the world’s largest religious structure.
4. The Great Wall
No one is foreign to the Great Wall of China. These walls form a great barrier for defense and were meant to protect from invasions and is one of the most recognizable structures in Asia.
A Symphony of Flavors
Asian cuisine is a blend of strong flavors and textures that are just mouth-watering delicious. Here are some of the most delicious ones you can try:
1. Curry Feast
Curry in Sri Lanka is a sensory experience that is not to be missed. The Curry Feast comes with curry leaves, chunks of cinnamon, and local spices.
2. Khantoke
A tradition of the northern side of Thailand, a Khantoke dinner comes with many different delicacies of Lanna.
3. Chilli Crab
While you’re in Singapore, grab a bite of the chili crab and have a mix of very good flavors of sweet and sour sauce with crabs.
4. Kimchi
Kimchi is made from pickled napa cabbage and is a spicy and fermented vegetable dish enjoyed in Korea.
5. Beef Rendang
You’ll never know how good a beef dish can taste unless you have tried beef rendang in Indonesia.
The Asian Lifestyle
The lifestyle of most Asian countries is very close-knit and people-centric.
The lives revolve around family, work, food. Being as large as it is, Asia has different countries with very different cultures and norms.
Members of the family are close-knit and always welcoming. Education holds a major factor in society. No wonder the continent is seeing such growth.
Lodging
Finding accommodation and a place to spend the night will be pretty easy for travelers thinking to go over to Asia. The continent has so many different attractions, tourists are welcomed.
You can book either luxurious or budget hotels. Stay at the luxurious Viroth’s Hotel in Cambodia or the Oberoi Rajvilas in India – there’s a place for everybody’s liking. You also have the option for an Airbnb.
Nightlife
Asia seems to do nightlife in its own unique way. You have famous places like Thailand with a bustling nightlife for people who like to party. The vibrant aesthetics of the Indian nightlife coupled with delicious foods and cuisines.
You can visit Saigon in Vietnam which is one of the most happening places in Southeast Asia. Don’t leave out Shanghai or Singapore either.
Travel Tips
If you’re going to visit any of the countries in Asia, these tips shall come in handy.
1. Pack Light
When traveling, packing light is always the best course of action. You do not want to get bogged down with unnecessary luggage on your trip
2. Take Note of Season
Pick the right season to visit the country you want. Rainy or dry, the experience can vary depending on the country
3. Insurance
Having the right travel insurance just puts you at ease. You can focus on the experience.
4. Pick the Right Country
Dig into the countries you want to visit. Each has its own unique experiences to offer.
Conclusion
Asia can be described as colorful and vibrant with different cultures and mouth-watering delicacies. For travel enthusiasts, a trip to Asia is a must. There’s something for everyone there.
Whether you would rather try out the delicious cuisine or spend the time with exotic animals, or get to know the local culture – you are sure to find something to your liking.