Best Asian Vacations
As you might imagine, the largest continent on Earth hosts an incredible array of vacation destinations. From mega-metropolises to remote islands, Asia's top travel spots offer adventure and ancient history side-by-side. However, the greatest challenge of visiting these places is coping with the high cost of airfare and difficult time change. Taking into consideration the local prices, the accessibility, and the variety of things to do in each destination, U.S. News Travel has ranked the best vacations in Asia.
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Why Go: Having caught a taste of the world's spotlight, Beijing is not quite ready to give it up. And we're okay with that. China's capital may not be the nation's most populous city (Shanghai) or its fastest-paced one (Hong Kong), but Beijing hosts the country's most significant cultural sites—the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City, to name two. With all its attractions, Beijing deserves many more years in the limelight. Read More»
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Why Go: The Maldives brims with lavish resorts, over-the-water bungalows, colorful reefs, and crystal-blue waves. This collection of 1,190 islands satisfies the dreams of every newlywed and beach bum—it's a heavenly paradise. However, much to travelers' disappointment, the Maldives remains difficult to reach. Its remote location in the Indian Ocean dissuades potential visitors, and the exorbitant price tags of its accommodations place this vacation destination well outside the "affordable" category. Read More»
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Why Go: This former British colony is the easiest introduction to China for English-speaking travelers. But make no mistake: Hong Kong distinguishes itself from both China and Britain, boasting its own currency, its own judiciary system, and more. This massive city also promises a fresh adventure, with mountains to climb, skyscrapers to admire, and theme parks to explore. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Hong Kong
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Why Go: Renowned as a culinary mecca, Singapore offers travelers a manageable (and beautiful) taste of Asia. The urban nation's diverse population has brought a delectable food scene and an international flavor to the local culture. Additionally, this fusion has led to immense prosperity that takes physical form in the city's mind-blowing skyline. Note: As Asian cities go, Singapore accommodates family visitors extremely well, with plenty of English-speakers and kid-friendly attractions. Read More»
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Why Go: Bali has long been the dreamy vacation destination for honeymooners and the super wealthy. But ancient temples, beaches, and luxury hotels are just part of Bali's allure. This Indonesian island possesses a rugged interior rip for adventure-seekers and nature-lovers. Plus, if you do your research, you can book accommodations for surprisingly affordable rates at independent hotels, even during the high season. However, the pricey airfare remains a sticking point for many jetsetters. Read More»
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Why Go: No dilly-dallying here—Tokyo is as fast-paced as cities come. As a visitor, you'll have a hard time keeping up with the fashions, the traffic patterns, and even the high pricing of hotels. But should you accept the challenge, you're in for a wild ride of museums, temples, skyscrapers, and sinfully good sushi. Read More»
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Why Go: Agra is the Indian destination for sightseeing; after all, it is home to the Taj Mahal. But that's not the only spectacular attraction here. Several Mughal shahs constructed jaw-dropping monuments and fortresses in Agra. Just glance at Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb or Fatehput Sikri to witness the remnants of a powerful and rich empire. While modern day Agra is nothing too special, a visit to the nearby attractions is a must for any world traveler. Read More»
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Why Go: When people refer to "the sun rising in the east," they're referring to the escalating power of China, and nowhere is this ascent more apparent than Shanghai. With prominent landmarks like the Oriental Pearl TV Tower that broadcasts the city's incredible wealth and innovative spirit, Shanghai impresses travelers and keeps them very busy. The only difficulty that visitors encounter is how to breach the city's glittering façade. Read More»
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Why Go: Comprised of eclectic neighborhoods, Bangkok is sure to surprise you. Whether you're game for a few shocks—good and bad—is another matter. Here, shopping takes center stage: Whether you're perusing clothes in a modern mall or shifting through handmade jewelry on roads lined with stalls, you're sure to discover some hidden treasures. That said, Bangkok does not have the exotic luxury of Thailand's coastal towns. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Bangkok
Why Go: In recent years, Phuket has been stealing the spotlight from chaotic Bangkok. "Why?" you ask. Phuket offers the adventure that most people dream of when they think of Thailand. Its lush green hills, soft beige beaches, and cerulean waters comprise an image of paradise that few Asian destinations can rival. Additionally, accommodations here are extremely affordable, making Phuket appealing to both the backpacker and the luxury traveler.
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