Asia is a continent packed with bucket list-worthy adventures, with such a diverse selection of destinations to visit. Whether you're at your most content on a sun lounger or happiest when deep in the jungle, there is something for everyone in Asia to experience. Here is a round-up with the top ten bucket list experiences to feed your wanderlust and give you ideas for your next visit to this beautiful region.
1. Take a tour of Angkor Wat with a Khmer Scholar
Angkor Wat is one of the top sites in Southeast Asia and can't be missed if you visit Cambodia. If you are looking to have a once in a lifetime visit to the temples, consider taking a tour of Angkor Wat with a Khmer scholar. During your time together, you'll enjoy learning little-known facts and gaining further insight into this popular site.
2. Overnight Cruise along Halong Bay
Located in the north of Vietnam, Halong Bay is known for its crystal clear waters and incredible limestone karsts. Halong Bay is best explored from the water, so take a luxury cruise for one or two nights along the bay, where you'll be able to appreciate the magnificence of these waters.
3. Meet elephants in Chiang Rai
No trip to Thailand is complete without seeing majestic elephants in their natural habitat. You can get up close and personal with elephants in northern Thailand in their natural habitat thanks to the Anantara in Chiang Rai. With endless excursions and activities to choose from, the whole family will love staying at this beautiful property.
4. View Everest Base Camp from a Private Helicopter
While hikers may take months to prepare and do the climb up Mount Everest, you can hop in a helicopter to experience the incredible views of the Everest Base Camp. You'll enjoy spectacular views across the Himalayas and marvel at the staggering size of these mountains people dare to climb.
5. Enjoy a Hot Air Balloon Ride over Bagan
The city of Bagan in Myanmar is known for its collection of 2000 temples, which have been around for centuries. The best way to take this city's landscape is from the air, so take to the skies early in the morning for an unforgettable hot air balloon ride.
6. See Komodo Dragons in Indonesia
Some of Indonesia's islands are home to the giant lizard in the world, the Komodo dragon. The best way to see these creatures is during a private cruise, where you will also be able to enjoy time diving or snorkeling in the crystal clear waters.
7. Scuba Diving in Raja Ampat
If you are a keen scuba diver, there's nowhere better to dive than off the east coast of Indonesia in Raja Ampat. It's a remote area that offers clear waters and incredible marine life, so take a luxury dive trip to enjoy a day or two exploring this bucket list destination for divers.
8. Visit Borneo to spot the Orangutans
Many visitors to Asia often skip over Borneo, but this island is the only place where you can meet orangutans in the wild. Travel into the jungle to see them in their natural environment, or consider visiting a sanctuary for a guaranteed orangutan viewing.
9. Stay overnight in a Japanese Ryokan
If you are taking a trip to Japan, ensure you book at least one night in a traditional Japanese Ryokan. I'd recommend one in Kyoto, which offers a wide selection to fit all tastes, or otherwise, some fantastic options are overlooking Mount Fuji. Having been around for thousands of years, you'll get to enjoy an immersive Japanese cultural experience by staying the night in a Ryokan.
10. Watch the sunset at Mehrangarh Fort
When planning a trip to India, one of my top recommendations for anyone is to enjoy the incredible sunset from the Mehrangarh Fort. You'll be able to witness Rajasthan's deserts while enjoying a relaxing and romantic moment with a champagne toast.
Every country in Asia has something unique to offer visitors, and it's one of my favorite continents to explore and create itineraries for. If you are planning your next Asian adventure, don't hesitate to contact us for further information or request a call back to talk about the experience of your dreams.