Asia is a place everyone should try to experience at least once in their life. From cutting edge technologies and out of this world skyscrapers that look like something from a Denis Villeneuve film, to monasteries and temples offering stillness and wisdom, to neon arcades that never sleep. And the food!
Tokyo, Japan
If you enjoy big cities, Tokyo is a must-see destination. A metropolis that's a feast for your senses, Tokyo really has it all. Go high-end shopping in Ginza, geek out on modern (alongside some amazing vintage) technology in Akihabara. You can get a glimpse of Japan's rich, regal history with a stop at the Imperial Palace or the Meiji Shrine. When you're ready for breathtaking tranquillity amid a city boasting almost 10 million residents, head to the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
When it comes to food in Tokyo, if you can imagine it, you'll find a place that sells it. Whether you want to explore iconic vending machine coffee and 'konbini' fare from the neighbourhood seven-11, eat as much $1 conveyor belt sushi as your appetite allows, or spend a day at an animal cafe enjoying the company of cats, dogs, owls, hedgehogs, miniature pigs, bunnies, or reptiles while you drink coffee and people watch, you can do it here!
Tokyo is big, brash, bold, and vibrant; everything you'd expect from this iconic city.
Kyoto, Japan
If you can only go to one place in Japan, head to Kyoto. Centrally located in the archipelago that consists of more than 6,000 different islands, Kyoto is considered the cultural heart of Japan. Home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, Kyoto has more than 1,500 Buddhist temples & Shinto shrines; you could spend an entire vacation just exploring these. Interested in doing a little time travel while you're there? Head to the Gion or Miyagawacho districts and take in classic architecture while enjoying tea in a traditional wooden teahouse. And don't be surprised if you see kimono-clad Geisha strolling the centuries-old cobblestone streets while you're there.
Phuket, Thailand
Few places in Asia can offer Phuket's breathtaking beaches and beautiful blue waters; its postcard-perfect shoreline dotted with traditional long-tail wooden boats. It's little wonder that sailing and spending time on the beach top most traveller 'to do' lists.
Phuket offers a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle typical of many other top places to visit in Asia. After spending the day on the water, you'll have plenty of energy - and appetite - to take in one of the area night markets where you'll eat some of the best food you'll ever taste.
Seoul, South Korea
The centre of South Korea's flag has a red and blue yin-yang symbol representing perfect balance and harmony. And that's exactly what you'll enjoy in Seoul. The capital of South Korea, Seoul is an ideal blend of stunning classic and contemporary architecture, a culture deeply rooted in tradition while maintaining a keen eye to the future. Seoul balances tradition and growth, with ancient temples nestled amid some of the tallest skyscrapers in the region. At 555-metres in height, the Lotte World Tower is the tallest building in Seoul and the fifth tallest in the world. Minutes from downtown, you'll find Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest (and oldest) of the five "grand palaces" built during the Joseon Dynasty (1392 -1910).
The best places to visit in Asia offer something different, making each stop a world-class adventure of its own. And despite the best planning, setbacks can occur for the most seasoned globetrotter: bad weather can mean cancelled flights, travellers can get sick, or your favourite piece of luggage can wind up lost. The good news is, the right travel insurance can mean misfortunes won't turn your vacation into a misadventure
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