Travel Guide & Resources
π§ Regions & Top Destinations
πΈ East Asia
- Japan β Tradition meets tech in Tokyo, Kyoto's temples, cherry blossoms, bullet trains, and sushi culture.
- South Korea β K-pop, street fashion, Korean BBQ, Jeju Island, and vibrant Seoul nightlife.
- China β The Great Wall, Forbidden City, Yangtze River cruises, and rich historical depth.
- Taiwan β Night markets, bubble tea, Taroko Gorge, and a unique blend of Chinese and indigenous culture.
π Southeast Asia
- Thailand β Beaches in Phuket, Bangkok street food, Chiang Mai temples, and full moon parties.
- Vietnam β Ha Long Bay, Hanoiβs old quarter, Hoi An lanterns, and epic motorbike journeys.
- Indonesia β Baliβs beaches and rice terraces, Komodo dragons, and Javaβs volcanoes.
- Malaysia β Multicultural vibes in Kuala Lumpur, Borneo rainforests, and Penang's food scene.
- Philippines β Over 7,000 islands, white sands in Palawan, diving in Cebu, and friendly locals.
- Cambodia β The ancient city of Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, and Khmer hospitality.
- Singapore β Ultra-modern, squeaky clean, great food, and a perfect layover hub.
π South Asia
- India β The Taj Mahal, Himalayan treks, Rajasthan palaces, yoga retreats, and a sensory overload of colors and flavors.
- Nepal β Trekking the Himalayas, spiritual retreats, and Kathmandu culture.
- Sri Lanka β Surfing, tea plantations, elephants, and ancient cities like Sigiriya and Anuradhapura.
- Bhutan β A peaceful Himalayan kingdom, known for Gross National Happiness, monasteries, and preserved traditions.
π« Central Asia
- Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan β Off-the-beaten-path Silk Road destinations with stunning mountain scenery, yurts, and friendly locals.
βοΈ Travel Tips for Asia
- Visas & Entry Requirements: Always check the visa requirementsβsome countries offer visa on arrival, e-visa, or require advance applications.
- Best Time to Visit: Avoid monsoon season (varies by country); October to March is generally great for most of Asia.
- Money: Many places are cash-heavy, especially in markets. Carry local currency, and inform your bank of international travel.
- Language: English is widely spoken in touristy areas, but learning basic local phrases goes a long way.
- Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting temples. Always take your shoes off in homes or sacred places. Respect local customs.
π Must-Try Foods
- Japan: Ramen, sushi, tempura
- Thailand: Pad Thai, green curry, mango sticky rice
- India: Butter chicken, biryani, samosas
- Vietnam: Pho, banh mi, fresh spring rolls
- Malaysia: Laksa, nasi lemak
- China: Dim sum, hot pot
- South Korea: Kimchi, bulgogi, bibimbap
- Indonesia: Nasi goreng, satay
π§³ Packing Essentials
- Lightweight clothing (plus a shawl or scarf for modesty)
- Universal power adapter
- Travel insurance
- Reusable water bottle with filter
- Copies of important documents
- Sunscreen & mosquito repellent
π‘ Pro Tips
- Local SIM or eSIM: Cheap and helpful for maps and translations.
- Transportation: Use ride-sharing apps (like Grab or Gojek), tuk-tuks, trains, and local buses.
- Stay Connected: Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me).
- Respect Nature & Culture: Leave no trace, avoid unethical animal tourism, and ask before taking photos of people.