6 Bucket List Vacation Destinations in Asia

From remote islands to mega metropolises, the top travel spots in Asia offer visitors a healthy dose of culture, ancient history, and adventure. Here’s a look at some of the top Asian destinations that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Hong Kong

While you’re on your flight to this city that used to be a British colony, you might want to immerse yourself in the popular culture by watching a Chinese drama to lessen the culture shock you’ll experience when you land. That said, this city is a great introduction to the country. It blends British and Asian culture and creates a hub that’s Eastern at heart while also featuring roots that have a great Western influence. This can be seen in the capitalist culture of the city, which is illustrated by thousands of options for dining, numerous street markets, and towering skyscrapers. If natural beauty is more your thing, you can always enjoy the outlying islands.

Maldives

Americans who’re traveling abroad might want to check out this archipelago located in the Indian Ocean. It’s made up of around 1,200 islands and has an overall atmosphere of paradise. The Maldives features things like coral reefs that inspire exploration, ocean waters that are crystal clear, white sand beaches that are unmatched, and lush tropical landscapes. The very best way for you to experience this little piece of paradise is by staying in a bungalow situated over the water.

Tokyo

In Tokyo, there’s no such thing as dilly-dallying. It has the distinction of being one of the biggest cities on the planet, and as such, it’s as fast-paced as it can be. There are over 13 million people living there, which means that the insanely crowded streets and flashing lights might be a bit difficult for novice travelers to keep pace with. That said, it’s worth the challenge to enjoy its scrumptious fresh sushi, the shopping scene that’s unrivaled, and the exhilarating energy.

Phuket

The elongated beaches and cerulean waters of Phuket make this a Thai destination that few others can rival. The gorgeous beaches feature limestone rock formations and are loaded with traditional Thai long-tail boats. Taking a boat tour or relaxing right on the beaches are among the favorite things for tourists to do, along with paying a visit to the Big Buddha statue. What makes this destination even more inviting is the budget-friendly lodging.

Seoul

Seoul, South Korea, is an amazing destination for travelers looking for a mix of culture and modernity. Whether you want to taste delicious street food or shop in bustling markets, Seoul has something for everyone. In the evening, the city becomes even more vibrant, with a variety of bars, pubs, and nightclubs that host some of the best DJs in the world. Additionally, you can also enjoy evenings at 강남룸싸롱 (Gangnam Room Salon), a popular spot for adult entertainment, which tend to offer cabarets, karaoke rooms, massage parlors, and much more.

Chiang Mai

This is another fascinating Thai destination. There’s sort of a Bangkok feel that’s countered by the reprieve given by its location in the northwestern sector of the country and the mountains that surround it. Your itinerary should include a hike through Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, a visit to a sanctuary for elephants, a trip to one of the night markets, and a tour of one of the breathtaking temples.

Of course, this is a small sample of the amazing, exotic, breathtaking destinations in Asia. Some recommendations while planning your trip include things like making sure your passport is in order, checking to see if any shots or vaccinations are necessary, and ensuring that you understand the customs and exchange rates. This should be the best trip of your life and being prepared is essential.