1) SINGAPORE
Singapore is a city-state in Southeast Asia. Founded as a British trading colony in 1819, since independence it has become one of the world's most prosperous countries and boasts the world's busiest port. Combining the skyscrapers and subways of a modern, affluent city with a medley of Chinese, Malay and Indian influences and a tropical climate, with tasty food, good shopping and a vibrant night-life scene, this Garden City makes a great stopover or springboard into the region. Some of the main attractions for tourists in Singapore are city centre with magnificent lighted buildings, temples, gambling in two great casinos, food, entertainment parks and annual festivals. Singapore is also a medical tourism centre of Southeastern Asia. Singapore is in fact one of the most enjoyable cities in Southeast Asia. As you zoom in from one of the world's best airports along the lushly tree-shaded expressway. And as you stroll through the fashion emporiums of Orchard Rd, poke around antique shops in Chinatown or take a walk around one of the dozens of beautiful city parks, you'll know the city bears no comparison to crime- and poverty of neighboring countries. You can be drinking and dancing until dawn in the city's pubs and clubs, or sipping a cocktail surrounded by the colonial elegance of a Raffles Hotel veranda. There's no law that says an Asian city can't be well run. It may have been a long and difficult haul from swampy colonial outpost and notorious den of vice to powerhouse industrial nation, but those who say that Singapore has lost its soul along the way couldn't be more wrong. Few cities in Southeast Asia can boast Singapore's fascinating ethnic brew. Where else in the world can you dip into the cultures of China, India and Muslim Malaysia all in one day, against a backdrop of ultra-modern Western commerce? Not only has Singapore's history of migration left a rich cultural and architectural legacy that makes wandering the streets an absorbing delight, it has created one of the world's great eating capitals. If there's one thing more stylish than the bars and restaurants, it's the boutiques that have made Singapore a byword in Asia for extravagant shopping. Away from the Gucci and Louis Vuitton onslaught of Orchard Rd, however, there are bargains to be found on everything from clothes to electronics - and a range of art and antique shops that few Asian cities can match. But Singapore is not all about shopping and eating. Nor is the notion of Singapore as completely urbanized anything more than popular myth. Adventure activities include diving with sharks at Underwater World on Sentosa, mountain biking around Bukit Timah, leopard-spotting at Singapore Zoo's magical Night Safari, waterskiing or wakeboarding on the Kallang River, go-karting and rock climbing. And if you want to retreat from civilization completely, the centre of the island retains large tracts of forest where the only sound you can hear is the monkeys swinging through the trees. In fact, Singapore is one of only two cities in the world that still retains a patch of primary rainforest, in the form of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. It's a fascinating place - and a remarkable achievement. No-one is denying that Singaporeans have had to sacrifice some level of freedom in their island's rise from racially divided, resource-starved port town. But you get the feeling that if Western development aid had ever matched Singapore's strides in poverty reduction, education, infrastructure and health care, they'd be patting themselves on the back and saying that political freedom was a small sacrifice to make. Besides, it's not all strait-laced conformity. You don't have to look far to find echoes of the island's colourful, rakish past, or evidence of a thriving and creatively unfettered artistic community. Singapore's soul is alive and well - and it is unique.
JURONG BIRD PARK
This ageing attraction is still popular with school kids, families and nature photographers. The Jurong Bird Park is home to 8000 birds -600 species, 30 of them endangered. Visitors walk through themed enclosures along 1.7km worth of trails: pelicans gawp at passers-by along a boardwalk, leggy pink flamingos stand proud by a lake, penguins nosedive through water in air-conditioned comfort and cutting through it all is the escapable scent of bird poop.
ORCHARD ROAD
Famous by name, Orchard Rd was once was lined with nutmeg and pepper plantations. Today it's the domain of Singapore's elite and well-heeled tourists, lured here by the shopping centres, nightspots, restaurants, bars and lounges. A showcase for the material delights of capitalism, Orchard Rd also possesses some sights of cultural interest where a credit card is not required.
LITTLE INDIA
This modest but colourful area of wall-to-wall shops, pungent aromas and Hindi film music is a relief from the prim modernity of many parts of the city. Centred around the southern end of Serangoon Rd, this is the place to come to pick up that framed print of Krishna you've always wanted, eat great food and watch streetside cooks fry chapatis. The Zhujiao Centre is the main market, but there are also interesting spice shops nearby. The best temples are Sri Veeramakaliamman, Sri Srinivasa Perumal and the glitzy Temple of 1000 Lights.
BUTTERFLY PARK & INSECT KINGDOM
You'll be fluttered by more than 50 species of butterfly inside the Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom. The Insect Kingdom museum has thousands of mounted butterflies, rhino beetles, Hercules beetles (the world's largest), scorpions, and other critters and varmints - kids stare wide-eyed while adults feign disinterest.
SINGAPORE ZOO
Set on a peninsula jutting into the Upper Seletar Reservoir, the Singapore Zoo is world class. Its 28 landscaped hectares and open concept (no cages) are a far cry from the sad concrete confines some zoos retain. The Singapore Zoo is one of the best in the world.
SINGAPORE FLYER
The Singapore Flyer is an expensive 30-minute ride with views towards the Colonial District, CBD, Marina Bay, the high-rise housing landscape to the east and out to the South China Sea. You're better off going on a clear day than at night, if only to avoid the annoying flashing neon lights outside the cabin
SINGAPORE BOTANIC GARDENS
If Singapore's urban planners could manufacture paradise, it wouldn't look too different from the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The front entrance leads to an idyllic koi pond. On weekends, laughing children feed the multicoloured fish. Right behind, a waterfall gurgles and birds hop around the water's edge, at ease with the locals
NIGHT SAFARI
You can walk around the three trails in the 40-hectare forested park but the best experience is via the tram (adult/child S$10/5), even though we think it's a little cheeky (and greedy) that you have to pay for the atmospheric 45-minute jungle tour past a parade of 120 different spot-lit nocturnal species.
WINGS OF TIME
End your day at Sentosa with the Award Winning Outdoor Night Show (Wings of Time) in the world set against the majestic open sea. Be mesmerized by a multi-sensory presentation of water display, laser show, fire effects and spectacular music as you soar through space and time in a magical adventure.
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS
Universal Studios Singapore is a theme park located within Resorts World Sentosa onSentosa Island, Singapore. It was a key component of Genting's bid for the right to build Singapore's second integrated resort. It is the second Universal Studios theme park to open in Asia (Japan being the first), and the first in Southeast Asia. Universal Parks & Resorts markets the park as a "one-of-its-kind theme park in Asia" and promises that the park will be the only one of its kind in Southeast Asia for the next 30 years
2) DUBAI
Dubai is the largest and most populous city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is located on the southeast coast of the Persian Gulf and is the capital of the Emirate of Dubai, one of the seven emirates that make up the country. Abu Dhabi and Dubai are the only two emirates to have veto power over critical matters of national importance in the country's Federal Supreme Council. The city of Dubai is located on the emirate's northern coastline and heads the Dubai-Sharjah-Ajman metropolitan area. Dubai will host World Expo 2020. Dubai emerged as a global city and business hub of the Middle East. It is also a major transport hub forpassengers and cargo. By the 1960s, Dubai's economy was based on revenues from trade and, to a smaller extent, oil exploration concessions, but oil was not discovered until 1966. Oil revenue first started to flow in 1969. Dubai's oil revenue helped accelerate the early development of the city, but its reserves are limited and production levels are low: today, less than 5% of the emirate's revenue comes from oil.
BURJ KHALIFA
Ever been on top of the world? Experience a spellbinding view of Dubai from world’s tallest architectural edifice with over 160+ stories – Burj Khalifa, which has already outdone most of the World Records like tallest building, tallest free-standing structure, and highest observation deck etc. This man-made marvel hosting an ensemble of leisure spaces such as sky-high restaurants, a colossal aquarium, Dubai Mall among many others.
FERRARI WORLD
Yet another record breaking marvel in the Arabian Gulf is the world’s largest indoor theme park, Ferrari World. Located on the Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World surprises its refugees with several action-packed rides and boasts to have the fastest roller coaster in the world, Formula Rossa. Along with many other rides and experiences, one could get to know Ferrari’s inspiring race to what it has become now.
DESERT SAFARI
The best and the most feasible of all the adventures one can seek in the undulating desert-scape of Arabia is the Desert Safari. Dive deep and rise higher with the sun-gilded dunes in a 4×4 drive, enjoy the photogenic face of the Arabian Desert against the entrancing sunset view. Walk over the sand or take a camel ride, let the falcon perch on your shoulder or the Henna designs adorn your hands, or savor the sumptuous dinner in the desert.
DHOW CRUISE
Parting Dubai in two – Bur to the south and Deira to the north, Dubai Creek once was the centre of economic significance with all the trade and transactions taking place on its brink. Dubai’s pearling industry, which fashioned the main sector of the city’s economy, was based primarily on expeditions in this saltwater creek. Granting, the city has crawled towards its south-end along the coast, the creek is still bustling with dhows and abras laden with goods and people.
ATLANTIS LOST CHAMBER
Get closer than you ever have been to over 65,000 marine animals and unearth the mysteries of the Atlantean civilization at Atlantis Lost Chamber. Believed to be a remnant of the lost city of Atlantis buried under the Persian Gulf for over thousand years, surfaced during the construction of the resort. This labyrinthine underwater trip would not refrain from surprising you at any point.
ATLANTIS AQUAVENTURE
Give your adrenaline a rush through your veins. Try sea kayaking or windsurfing. If that is not enough, push the notch up a bit and slide through the see-through acrylic tube raided by sharks all around it. Or even better would be a shark safari while snorkeling in their water. All these is now not a dream when you are in Atlantis Aquaventure.
ICELAND WATER PARK
Located in Ras Al Khaimah, Iceland Water Park is yet another such package with amusing attractions like Penguin Falls – the largest man-made waterfalls in the world, Wave Pool – the largest of its kind in the region and Coral Reef, for an incredible snorkeling experience in a natural setting. Just a 45 minutes drive from Dubai, the major draw of this leisure spot is its distinctive locale amidst captivating Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Gulf. This trip is surely an intriguing day-out for family and friends..
SKI DUBAI
Cuddle a penguin, sledge down the icy mountains. Sounds crazy? Well, a trip to Ski Dubai will make you believe our saner minds prevail. Ranging over about 22,500 sq feet, Ski Dubai facility lets you indulge in winter sports in a snow-clad mountainous setting. Be it ice skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing or just simply mounting snow into a snowman. Let nothing avert your adventure spirit from snowballing this time.
3) MALAYSIA
Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy located in Southeast Asia. It consists of thirteen states and three federal territories and has a total landmass of 330,803 square kilometres (127,720 sq mi) separated by the South China Sea into two similarly sized regions, Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia (Malaysian Borneo). Peninsular Malaysia shares a land and maritime border with Thailand at the north and maritime borders with Singapore at the south, Vietnam at the northeast, and Indonesia in the west. East Malaysia shares land and maritime borders with Brunei and Indonesia and a maritime border with the Philippines and Vietnam. The capital city is Kuala Lumpur, while Putrajaya is the seat of the federal government. With a population of over 30 million, Malaysia is the 44th most populous country. The southernmost point of continental Eurasia, Tanjung Piai, is in Malaysia. Located in the tropics, Malaysia is one of 17 megadiverse countries on earth, with large numbers of endemic species.
KUALA LUMPUR
Kuala Lumpur, the sixth most visited city in the world, is the capital of Malaysia. Tourism here is driven by the city's cultural diversity, relatively low costs and wide gastronomic and shopping variety. The major tourist destinations in Kuala Lumpur include the Merdeka Square, the House of Parliament, the Petaling Street, the National Palace (Istana Negara), the Kuala Lumpur Tower, the National Museum, the Central Market, the Monument, andreligious sites such as the Jamek Mosque and Batu Caves.The entertainment hub of the city is mainly centered in the Golden Triangle encompassing Jalan P. Ramlee, Jalan Sultan Ismail and Ampang Road.
GENTLING ISLANDS
Known as the "Fun City Above the Cloud", Genting Highlands is the only legal land-based casino, Casino de Genting, in the country and is owned by Genting Malaysia Berhad, a subsidiary of Genting Group. The resort has three theme parks which are Genting Outdoor Theme Park, First World Indoor Theme Park and Water Park. It is accessible by car from Kuala Lumpur in one hour, or also accessible by a cable car called Genting Skyway (3.38 km) which at its opening used to be the world's fastest and South East Asia's longest gondola lift.
PUTRA JAYA
Putrajaya is a planned city, located 25km south of Kuala Lumpur, that serves as the federal administrative centre of Malaysia. The seat of government was shifted in 1999 from Kuala Lumpur to Putrajaya, due to the overcrowding and congestion in the Kuala Lumpur areas. In Malay/Sanskrit, the words "putra" or "putera" means "prince", and "jaya" means "success" or "victory". The botanical gardens, the Seri Wawasan bridge and a cruise by evening in the city is a must do when you visit the city.
LANGKAWI
Officially known as Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah is an archipelago of 104 islands in theAndaman Sea, some 30 km off the mainland coast of northwestern Malaysia. Malaysia's best-known holiday destination, Langkawi is one of those places whose name alone summons up images of tropical romance and carefree days under swaying coconut palms. Fringed with long, sandy beaches and with an interior of jungle-clad hills and picturesque paddy-fields, it's easy to see why this is Malaysia's most heavily promoted tourist hotspot. Away from the built-up areas Langkawi is still a rural Malay island of small villages, rice paddies, water buffaloes and natural beauty.
PENANG
Like many company settlements, Penang wilted after the collapse of the British Empire. Today it's become the 'Silicon Valley' of Malaysia although this high-tech world is scarcely noticeable to the casual traveler. Beyond the capital Georgetown's heat and decay are beach resorts, such as Batu Ferringhi, and the sleepy Malay fishing village of Teluk Bahang. Entrepreneurs of every imaginable ethnicity, most notably Chinese, flocked to this new land, creating wealth and cultural hybrids. Penang showcases a religious fusion of Temples, as well as churches and Mosques.
TIOMAN ISLAND
Like a giant sleeping dragon, the dark green ridges of Tioman Island rise up above the waters of the South China Sea. On closer inspection, it becomes clear that the dragon's dark green scales are in fact giant trees and impenetrable jungle; that the grey claws are giant granite boulders and that the dragon's horns are twin peaks with smooth, straight cliffs, surrounded with swirls of mist. The natural beauty of the island is its biggest attraction. Lush tropical jungle covers about 12,000 hectares of the island and countless mountain streams and waterfalls sustain the many protected species of mammals and birds. Tioman has options for every kind of holiday-maker: families with small children, honeymooners, scuba divers, backpackers, adventurers and even those looking for a slice of exclusivity and luxury.
TAMAN NEGARA
No holiday or vacation in the tropics is complete without visiting a tropical rainforest. And there's no grandeur than to visit the TAMAN NEGARA, reputed to be The Oldest Jungle, The Best Kept Tropical Rainforest & The Great Natural Wonders of the world. By that it means that Taman Negara's flora & fauna has evolved naturally over hundreds of millions of years without any disruption or major calamities. The stated purpose of Taman Negara is "to utilise the land within the park in perpetuity, for the propagation, protection and preservation of indigeneous flora and fauna". With so much to see and do, a trip to Taman Negara is a must on your itinerary.
SELANGOR
Located on the west coast of Peninsula Malaysia, the state of Selangor occupies some 125,000 sq. km. Outside its cities, Selangor is adorned with lush green vegetation that varies with the landscape and topography - from the coastal mangroves and verdant tropical rainforest right down to the charming fishing villages that dot the coastline. The great Titiwangsa Range runs across Selangor. Should you be inclined to trek up the many hills and mountains here, you'll discover that they each feature a unique personality that is simply thrilling.
MELAKA
One of Malaysia's most eagerly sought-after destinations, the small city-state of Melaka (Malacca) lures droves of visitors to its namesake historic port city, where they are quickly steeped in an intoxicating multicultural world of heritage architecture and the alluring aromas of distinctive local cooking. Melaka remains one of Malaysia's most rewarding tourist experiences. Proud of its multicultural heritage, plentiful museums and assorted cultural attractions, plus the wildlife and theme-park attractions of Afamosa. Melaka is a tourist habitat par excellence.
CAMERON HIGHLANDS
Malaysia's most extensive hill station, about 60km off the main KL-Ipoh-Butterworth road at Tapah, is at an altitude of 1300m to 1829m. The Cameron Highlands is a vast area of rolling green hills, tea plantations and forests. There's a network of jungle trails, waterfalls and mountains, and less-taxing points of interest, including colourful temples, rose gardens and tea plantations where visitors are welcome to try the local brew. Despite all the changes from an old fashioned English atmosphere, the regular rain, and the dampness and visiting hordes, the Cameron Highlands is still a relaxing destination and one of Malaysia's most rewarding stopovers.
PANGKOR ISLANDS
The island of Pangkor is low-key resort island noted for its fine beaches. The jungle-clad hills of the interior of this island, though, are virtually untouched. At 8 sq km, Pangkor is a small island, but that hasn't stopped the state government from trying to promote it as one of Malaysia's main tourist destinations. Fishing and dried fish products are still a major industry for the island, particularly on the east coast, with most tourist development confined to the west coast. Pangkor is a popular local resort. It can get very crowded on weekends and holidays when prices are highest, but during the week the beaches are almost empty.
JOHOR BAHRU
Capital of the state of Johor, Johor Bahru (popularly called JB) is the southern gateway to Peninsular Malaysia, connected to Singapore by road and rail. Economically, it is one of the most important states in the country with various large plantations. They include commodities such as rubber, palm oil, and pineapple. On top of agricultural products, Johor is also becoming an industrial base. It has even developed to become one of the most populated states with Johor Bahru (JB), its capital city, as the second-largest city in Malaysia.
4) THAILAND
Thailand, officially the Kingdom of Thailand and formerly known as Siam, is a country at the centre of the Indochinese peninsula in Southeast Asia. With a total area of approximately 513,000 km2 (198,000 sq mi), Thailand is the world's 50th-largest country. It is the 20th-most-populous country in the world, with around 69 million people. Thailand is a constitutional monarchy and has switched between parliamentary democracy and military junta for decades, the latest coup being in May 2014 by the National Council for Peace and Order. Its capital and most populous city is Bangkok. It is bordered to the north by Myanmar and Laos, to the east by Laos and Cambodia, to the south by the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia, and to the west by the Andaman Sea and the southern extremity of Myanmar. Its maritime boundaries include Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand to the southeast, and Indonesia and India on the Andaman Sea to the southwest.
AYUTHAYA
The sacred city, the sacked city, Ayuthaya is complexly intertwined with Thai nationalism and religion. Ayuthaya was the former royal capital. The city was named after Ayodhya (Sanskrit for 'unassailable' or 'undefeatable'), the home of Rama in the Indian epic Ramayana. Its full Thai name is Phra Nakhon Si Ayuthaya (Sacred City of Ayuthaya). A day trip gives a superb introduction to the architectural heritage of the ancient capital Ayutthaya. A thriving trade and political capital of Siam for over 400 years, Ayutthaya is filled with palaces, temples and religious monuments of great historical and cultural significance - even in their ruined state. It is fair to say that no study of Thai architecture or art is complete without a trip to this once glorious capital, which gave birth to the unique U-Thong style.
BANGKOK
Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand. Bangkok is one of the world's top tourist destination cities. With so much of life conducted on the street, there are few cities in the world that reward exploration as handsomely as Bangkok. Cap off an extended boat trip with a visit to a hid- den market. A stroll off Banglamphu's beaten track can end in conversation with a monk. Get lost in the tiny lanes of Chinatown and come face to face with a live Chinese opera performance. After dark, let the BTS (Sky- train) escort you to Th Sukhumvit, where the local nightlife scene reveals a sophisticated and dynamic city. Among Bangkok's well-known sights are the Grand Palace and major Buddhist temples, including Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun, to name a few. The Giant Swing andErawan Shrine demonstrate Hinduism's deep-rooted influence in Thai culture. Vimanmek Mansion in Dusit Palace is famous as the world's largest teak building, while the Jim Thompson House provides an example of traditional Thai architecture. Other major museums include the Bangkok National Museum and the Royal Barges National Museum. Cruises and boat trips on the Chao Phraya and Thonburi's canals offer views of some of the city's traditional architecture and ways of life on the waterfront.
CHIANG MAI
Including: Loi Krathong (known locally as Yi Peng): Held on the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar, being the full moon of the 2nd month of the old Lanna calendar. In the western calendar this usually falls in November. Every year thousands of people assemble floating banana-leaf containers decorated with flowers and candles onto the waterways of the city to worship the Goddess of Water. Lanna-stylesky lanterns, which are hot-air balloons made of paper, are launched into the air. The sky lanterns are believed to help rid the locals of troubles and are also taken to decorate houses and streets. Songkran : Held in mid-April to celebrate the traditional Thai new year. Chiang Mai has become one of the most popular locations to visit for this festival. A variety of religious and fun-related activities (notably the good-natured city-wide water-fight) take place each year, along with parades and a Miss Songkran beauty competition. Chiang Mai Flower Festival : A three-day festival held during the first weekend in February each year, this event occurs when Chiang Mai's temperate and tropical flowers are in full bloom. Tam Bun Khan Dok, the Inthakin (City Pillar) Festival, starts on the day of the waning moon of the six lunar month and lasts 6-8 days
PATTAYA
Pattaya's a stay up late kind of town, but wake up earlier than most and there are activities galore to redress your daytime/nighttime balance. Hit the dive shops to explore the city's offshore reefs and wrecks, or get some fresh air on world-class golf courses. And if you're here with the family, the kids will find plenty to do to make it a real holiday.
PHUKET
Phuket is Thailand's largest and most popular island, Phuket is as colourful as it is cosmopolitan and one of the world's most famous dream destinations. Phuket boasts some lush inland vistas, including a few remote swathes of rainforest on Ko Yao, but the island really comes into its own along its western shoreline, where hunter-green foliage meets the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. The mile upon sandy mile of coastline boasts tons of water sports, delectable restaurants and decadent resorts
PHI PHI
The Phi Phi Islands are located in Thailand, between the large island of Phuket and the western Andaman Sea coast of the mainland. The islands feature beaches and clear water that have had their natural beauty protected by National Park status. In the early 1990s only the most adventurous travelers visited the island, staying in only the most basic accommodation. Nowadays, however, the place has turned into one of the major destinations for visitors to Krabi. Ko Phi Phi is a popular place for diving and snorkeling, kayaking and other marine recreational activities.
KANCHANABURI
Kanchanaburi is a town in the west of Thailand and the capital of Kanchanaburi province. With field, forest and stream, Kanchanaburi has become a catch basin for new arrivals overwhelmed by Bangkok (a mere 130km east) and a closer alternative than Chiang Mai for Thailand's soft version of 'trekking' (elephant rides, short hikes and bamboo rafting). The town sits in a fertile valley where sugar-cane fields bow in the breeze, measuring out an easy pace. Kanchanaburi is famous for their temple caves, an underground communion of animistic spirit worship and traditional Buddhism.
KHAO LAK
As the most practical base for exploring the Similan and Surin islands as well as the mainland wonders of Khao Sok and Khao Lak/Lam Ru National Parks, it's no wonder that the beautiful, bronze beach of Khao Lak has been experiencing a tourist gold rush in recent years. After the area's near total devastation from the Boxing Day tsunami and subsequent rebuilding, resorts have been flinging open their doors, tourists (especially divers) have been flooding in and new infrastructure has been laid down at a terrific rate
KO PHA NGAN
Ko Pha Ngan (or Koh Phangan, is an island in the Gulf of Thailand in South East Thailand, and located in Surat Thani Province. It is famous for its full moon party at Haad Rin Beach and as a backpackers destination. Ko Pha Ngan has two sister islands: the larger Ko Samui to the south and the smaller Ko Tao to the north.
KO SAMUI
Ko Samui , often called just Samui is an island in the Gulf of Thailand. Ko Samui is a fairly big island. The most popular and commercialised beaches are Chaweng and Lamai, while the northern beaches and their adjacent villages of Mae Nam, Bophut, Bang Rak and Choeng Mon are more peaceful choices, and the west coast beaches are still comparatively quiet. Ko Samui is paradise - white-sand beaches with palms blowing in the wind and clear green seas sparkling in the sunlight, against a picture-perfect background of lush green hills and brown roads interspersed with rough wooden structures Hua Hin Krabi
5) VIETNAM
There’s more to Vietnam than the traditional image of rice paddies and conical hats. Here you’ll find a country bursting with energy and forward motion. You’ll feel it in the hum and activity on the streets. You’ll see it in the way Vietnamese welcome you to their homes, invite you to taste their food, and proudly show you their rich culture. You’ll sense it in the options and opportunities all around. Simply put, there's never been a more exciting time to visit.
HA LONG BAY
For many, the seascape of Hạ Long Bay is synonymous with Vietnam. Cruises sail emerald green waters among thousands of rugged islands and islets, stopping at spectacular caves through which visitors can wander, viewing impressive, centuries-old formations. Hạ Long Bay's mystical beauty has made it a bucket list attraction within the country, but it's still possible to find secluded corners to call your own.
HUE
Huế is a city chock-full of stories. The Kings of the Nguyễn Dynasty built their feudal capital along Huế’s fertile riverbanks and atop its forested hills, but their imperial legacy is just one of many reasons to visit. Huế’s refined cuisine is the stuff of legend, and its leafy streets are lined with mossy pagodas, art déco mansions, and eye-popping markets. Through the whole scene flows the Perfume River, setting a languid pace the rest of the city is happy to follow.
MUI NE
It's easy to lose track of time in Mũi Né, riding bicycles along the coast, spending afternoons by the pool, and dining on fresh seafood with the sound of the waves in the background. With ideal conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing, brightly coloured kites are a fixture on Mũi Né's beaches year-round. Over the years, this seaside retreat has evolved to offer guesthouses and resorts of every stripe. Come for the surf, stay for the mellow atmosphere.
6) CAMBODIA
Cambodia may be a small country, but it offers everything one needs for a wonderful vacation. Above the many reasons why most visitors return to visit time and again, are two that many would find difficult to match elsewhere. Firstly, Cambodia offers an incredible amount of history and culture and its nature is simply amazing to say the least; ranging from the gorgeous National Parks to the pristine beaches and relaxing islands, the flavours of Cambodia are not only in the exotic cuisines, but also its overall ambience. If you’re planning to visit Southeast Asia, Cambodia is certainly a ‘Must-visit’ destination.
MONDULKIRI
Mondulkiri is about 543km north of Phnom Penh. Despite being the largest inland area; Mondulkiri is one of the most sparsely populated provinces in the country and can be reached by land or by air. Mondul Kiri is very rich in natural resources especially hard minerals such as gold and gems which can be found in all five districts of the province. Known also for its forested hills and beautiful waterfalls, Mondulkiri is one of the most popular destinations for Eco-tourism in Cambodia. More than 80 percent of the population in Mondul Kiri is made up of tribal minorities; the majority of them being from the Phnong tribe. Tourists are invited to participate in a wine-sipping tradition that dates back since the first visitors from the outside world visited the tribes many years ago. The wine is traditionally brewed from rice and stored in jars, some of which are more than a thousand years old. The remaining 20 percent are collectively made up of Khmer, Chinese, and Muslims. Tourists are fascinated by the traditional Phnong houses in which there are various types of traditional gongs and big jars which are more than a thousand years old. These Jars and gongs are among the most valuable possessions of indigenous communities both in traditional and spiritual as well as material terms. Get further off the beaten tracks and explore the northeastern frontier jungle of Mondulkiri safely on the back of an elephant. An elephant ride through lush unspoilt tropical rain forest where various large mammals, including dholes, bats, bears, wild cattle, buffaloes, deers, elephants, gaurs, gibbons, goats, horses, leopards, monkeys, otters, rabbits, tigers and wolves roam, offers one a memorable experience promised to last a lifetime. This kind of trekking creates jobs for local people and supports eco-tourism and a greener mode of transportation.
SIEM REAP
Siem Reap Province is basically the cradle of Angkorean civilization and it is a province that offers plenty of opportunity to tourists enthralled by the Khmer culture. The main route to the Angkor Wat The main route to the Angkor Wat Srah SrangSrah Srang The ruins of Angkor, located amid forests and Farland, are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are over one thousand temples ranging in scale from nondescript piles of brick rubble scattered through rice fields to the magnificent Angkor Wat which is said to be the world’s largest single religious monument. There are dozens of temple ruins in the Siem Reap area and it depends largely on how much time one has and one’s level of interest to determine how long one should spend to explore them. This province is accessible on direct flights from many major cities in the region including Bangkok, Danang, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Paksé, Vientiane, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, Kunming, Taipei, Manila, etc. From the capital of Phnom Penh, the Cambodia National Airline operates direct flights daily to and from Siem Reap. Siem Reap Province can also be reached by speedboats along the Tonlé Sap from Phnom Penh and Battambang Province. The Siem Reap Province is conveniently situated 314 km northwest of Phnom Penh, along National Road No 6. It can be reached all year round by National Road No 6 from Phnom Penh, Poipèt Border Checkpoint, Banteay Meanchey Province, Kampong Cham Province, and Kampong Thom Province; and by National Road No 5 and 6 from Kampong Chhnang Province, Pursat Province, and Battambang Province. This is a vibrant city with many modern hotels and old colonial buildings boasting awesome architecture. Much of the town’s image, culture, and traditions are conserved despite the influx of tourists from all over the world. There are restaurants of almost every culture and also bars and café of nearly every fashion and size all about town. The Psar Leu area is where one can find great bargains in jewelry and handicraft from precious stones to wonderful woodcarvings. There are also many shops offering traditional massage and reflexology to help relieve those tired feet after a day’s tour of the temples.
LANDMINE MUSEUM
Landmine Museum It is situated on the way to Banteay Srei Temple, Siem Reap. It was founded by a veteran using most of his saving. He used to do the landmine removal work, so he has collected around 5000 removal landmines and wartime weapons displayed in the museum. There are also pictures and stories of victims and introduction about landmine removal work in the museum. Every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, from 9:00 to 15:00, there are English, Japanese tour guides to let everyone understand more about the history of that period.
7) SRILANKA
Sri Lanka is one of the leading romantic destinations in the whole world. The land of serendipity brings spiritual tranquility and a chance to rediscover oneself. The beauty of this tiny island is simply breath-taking. Known for its enchanting ancient ruins, endless soft-sanded beaches, imposing mountains, colourful festivals, tempting water sports, dense wild-life, diverse ethnical groups and off the top hospitality from the local residents, Sri Lanka is bound to make you come back again. Sri Lanka Travel and Tourism brings all of this for you right under your fingertips so that you can discover the serene island for yourself.
COLOMBO
The name 'Colombo', first introduced by the Portuguese in 1505, is believed to be derived from the classical Sinhala name කොලොන් තොට Kolon thota, meaning "port on the river Kelani".[11] Another belief is that the name is derived from the Sinhala name කොල-අඹ-තොට Kola-amba-thota which means 'Harbour with leafy/green mango trees'.[10] This coincides with Robert Knox's history of the island while he was a prisoner in Kandy. He writes that "On the West, the City of Columbo, so-called from a Tree the Natives call Ambo, (which bears the Mango-fruit) growing in that place; but this never bare fruit, but only leaves, which in their Language is Cola and thence they called the Tree Colambo: which the Christians in honour of Columbus turned to Columbo." The author of the oldest Sinhala grammar, Sidatsangarava, written in the 13th century wrote about a category of words that exclusively belonged to early Sinhala. It lists naramba (to see) and kolamba (ford or harbour) as deriving from the indigenous Vedda language. Kolamba may also be the source of the name of the commercial capital Colombo.
8) INDONESIA (BALI)
Bali has been the favorite destination for locals and international tourists for ages. Full of magnificent beaches, breathtaking sceneries, marvelous trinkets and interesting culture, Bali is ideal for people wanting to escape from daily activities, enjoy a honeymoon, or even, have a great time with family and friends. Many beautiful resorts offer fine lodgings. Most of the starred hotels are located near the beach. Otherwise, they usually have their own private spots at certain beaches. You can find them easily at p opular spots like Kuta or Sanur. If you're in a serene highland like Ubud, forget starred hotels. You're there to embrace the atmosphere. Just pick one of the small lodgings lining up the streets. And even the smallest one's ready to make you feel welcome. s a tourist icon of Indonesia, Bali has so many interesting objects to see. We can say that the beauties of nature in Bali are almost complete. As a relatively small island, Bali has many beautiful beaches. One of the beaches which are very popular with its beautiful wave is Kuta beach. Bali also has highland and mountains area which are cool and chilly, such as Kintamani and Bedugul. In fact, there are hilly areas that allow visitors to see the beauty of the sunset combined with a landscape of the sea spread below. There are also rivers, which often served as a place to do rafting like Ayung River. In addition to natural beauty, which is very interesting in Bali is the beauty of cultural diversity. Balinese dance is one of the most beautiful dances in Indonesia, which can be enjoyed in many places in Bali. One of the dances are very interested by tourists is the Kecak Dance. Traditional Balinese Hindu culture which is still very inherent in the community also becomes part of a very interesting to be enjoyed in Bali. Every day tourists can view the activities associated with the religious and cultural rituals such as the view of Balinese women bringing ritual offerings wearing traditional clothing.
JAKARTA
Jakarta is the biggest city in Indonesia with a role as the capital of Indonesia as well as the government center of Indonesia. Jakarta is also one of the 33 provinces in Indonesia, and therefore governed by a governor who reports to the President of Indonesia through the Internal Affairs Minister. Due to the multi role as both a provinc regency. The five municipalities are North Jakarta (Jakarta Utara), East Jakarta (Jakarta Timur), West Jakarta (Jakarta Barat), South Jakarta (Jakarta Selatan), Central Jakarta (Jakarta Pusat), and Thousand Islands Regency (Kepulauan Seribu). Each municipality headed by a Mayor who assists to prepare the planning of their region. Thousand Island is headed by a Regent who's responsible on the financial matters. Jakarta is a metropolitan city which has millions enchantments to enjoy. There are many comfortable malls and luxurious plazas for shopping, entertainment places like bars, night club, discotheques and live music, as well as international restaurants serving good taste cuisines. Besides modernity, there are many simplicity you could see in Jakarta, such as small shops (warung) under the tent, sidewalk shops, Bajaj (three wheeled vehicle), and bicycle ojek (ride by bicycle).
SUMATRA
Sumatra is a region of Indonesia and the 6th largest island in the world. Wild and rugged, it has a great natural wealth. Nature is the primary attraction of Sumatra. There are jungles, volcanoes and lakes. The rain-forest of this island is so important that in 2006 no less than 25,000 square km was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and named The Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra. This area comprises three distinct national parks. Perhaps the most notable specific attraction is the endemic Sumatran Orangutan (smaller and rarer than the only other species of orangutan which is endemic to Borneo). These are restricted to the northern parts of the island and perhaps the easiest place to see them is at Bukit Lawang in the Gunung Leuser National Park. Rarer still are the tiny populations of critically endangered Sumatran Tiger and Sumatran Rhinoceros. The chances of casual visitor glimpsing one of these are slim, but you never know. Also in the north, Lake Toba is the world's largest volcanic lake and a popular stop off on the backpacker trail. In a nation of active volcanoes, Mount Kerinci in Kerinci Seblat National Park, is the highest of them all at some 3,805 metres.
JAVA
Java is Indonesia's fifth-largest island. Its 130 million people make up 65% of Indonesia's entire population, and makes Java the most populated island in the world. Covering an area of 127,569 sq. km (7% of Indonesia's area) and with a population density of 940 people/sq. km, Java is the world's most crowded major island as well. Java offers everything a somewhat adventurous traveler is looking for: two of world's great ancient monuments, volcanoes (all 121 of them), major national parks, rainforests, tea and rice plantations, large cities, big waves and even savanna. The scenery in most parts of Java is spectacular and, while the island is overpopulated, there are still plenty of unspoiled places. Even though the beaches are not very appealing in Java and tides can be fatal especially in south part of Java, in nearby archipelagos like Pulau Seribu or Karimunjawa the traveler can find white sand beaches and corals islands.
KALIMANTAN
Kalimantan is the Indonesian part of the island of Borneo, the 3rd largest island in the world. The Indonesian part covers some 580.000 km2 (225.000 sq mi), the vast area is home to only 12 million people, so most of the provinces, especially the interior is very sparsely populated, and the vast rain forests here is some of the most bio-diverse areas in the world.
9) MALDIVES
Maldives, officially the Republic of Maldives, is an archipelagic state in the Indian subcontinent of Asia, situated in the Indian Ocean. It lies southwest of Sri Lanka and India, about 750 kilometres from the Asian continent's mainland.
COMO COCOA ISLAND
Although Maldives is the proud bearer of gorgeous islands, yet the charm of this archipelago is incomplete without the stunning COMO Cocoa Island. This cozily positioned island is nothing but a tropical paradise for rejuvenation and relaxation. Known for its luxurious villas offering 5-star hospitality, this place is a must-visit for experiencing pampering at its best. The clear blue water and soft white sandy shores are something that would just touch your soul and lure you during your visit to this exquisite island. The major attractions of COMO Cocoa Island includes scuba diving, snorkeling, relaxing spa retreats.