If you are traveling in Asia, there are certain places you simply can’t miss out on visiting. From food culture to incredible beaches and friendly locals, some countries have it all. The following are five must visit places in Asia. Warning; you are about to get a serious dose of wanderlust.
China
China is an enormous country so to condense the experience into one paragraph is an impossible task. However, if you love adventure and you are prepared to throw yourself into a completely different culture then it’s the place to see. From the Harbin Ice Festival in the northernmost regions to taking a train further south to warmer climates and the unique food culture of Sichuan, it has everything. People are always willing to talk to you, and you will make lifelong friends along the way. Perhaps learn a few words of Mandarin before you go to make life easier – it isn’t as difficult as you may think.
Japan
A chain of islands that has rejected outside influences for most of its existence, Japan is a unique cultural experience. The politeness of its people can at times be overwhelming and difficult to get used to. However, underneath that, people are warm and welcoming. It has an abundance of natural beauty such as Mount Fuji and the areas of natural beauty surrounding Nagasaki. You can also visit Osaka and try out some of the best food in the world at the Osaka night market. Japan is one of the more expensive options on this list but worth the money. If you are considering ways to raise money for your trip, taking a personal loan from a private lender is an option. The repayment options are reasonable and the experiences you have on your adventure will stay with you forever.
Vietnam
Vietnam is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Taking the train from Hanoi to Danang in Central Vietnam is one of those travel experiences that must be done. Your train will rumble along stunning coastlines on one side and beautiful mountains covered in jungle on the other. If you want to escape the stifling heat in the south, you can climb up to Dalat for some relief and the opportunity to do some hiking. If Cold War history is your thing, Saigon will leave you in your element.
Myanmar
This is a country with a troubled past and present and one that is often left off travel itineraries. Myanmar is a fusion of East Asian, Southeast Asian and South Asian culture, a mix you will find nowhere else in the world. Wandering the markets of Yangon you will be intoxicated by the smells of spices, and in the more Chinese feeling Mandalay, you can climb Mandalay Hill and look out over the plains of Northern Myanmar. The temples of Bagan offer an experience akin to Angkor Wat but with far less tourists and more time to be at peace as you wander around the temples. This country is not as easy to get to as other places but worth the effort.
Malaysia
Malaysia offers some of the best food in the world. The streets of Kuala Lumpur are filled with locals selling street food, and Chinatown has some of the best Chinese food outside of China. You also have the incredible beaches on Langkawi Island. If adventure is more your thing, then head to the jungles of Borneo where you can go hiking and see unique wildlife and habitats. A top destination for backpackers, Malaysia has no shortage of backpack hostels available so you can spend less money on your accommodations and more on your experiences. Malaysia is a wonderful experience, full of different cultural influences and it should be high up your travel wish list.