What’s your favourite takeaway; Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, Indian, Malaysian, Nonya, Japanese? Hard to choose, isn’t it? Each is fantastic, yet very different from all the others.
Holidays in Asia are like that too.
With as much variety as a Chinese banquet, Asia serves up a holiday experience for all tastes, and every course is a delight. From vast and ancient China to tiny, brand-new East Timor, the range and types of holiday in this magical, mystical part of the globe are endless. And because we’re near neighbours we can get up there for a full-blown holiday or just a short break for a spot of retail therapy or a stretch on a tropical beach to recharge the batteries.
With such diversity in culture, cuisine and history there are countless choices to be made; even deciding which country to visit can be a struggle. The adventurer might consider a trekking holiday in Nepal; perhaps crossing the Gobi desert by 4WD, or tackling the Kokoda track in true ANZAC style. For an experience holiday how about a Vietnamese cooking school in ancient Hoi An, a decadent spa package at a luxury resort in Thailand’s achingly beautiful Hua Hin, or a narrow gauge rail expedition to the cool mountain station towns of northern India.
Family friendly is an often overworked phrase in our business, but nothing better describes the scene on Bali’s sublime beaches or the atmosphere in Hong Kong’s Disneyland, while nothing says “romance” like Banyan Tree or Aman, check them out for the ultimate in luxe. Hot new destinations appear daily and the early adopter might consider Bhutan and South Korea as viable options if the beaten track has become a little too predictable.
Absolutely chockers with unique attractions the big cities of Asia have called us for decades with their chaotic siren songs and timeless traditions. Think Bangkok for its riverfront temples, Shanghai for breakneck speed development, Osaka for cultural treasures, Saigon for street food, Singapore for a relaxing cool vibe, Delhi for a frenetic spice hit, KL for shopping and Seoul as the “new black” in exotic destinations.
What we love about Asia
No matter where we go, the people of Asia are universally cheerful and welcoming.
The streets are a key part of the Asian way of life and we love wandering down back streets, alleys and hutongs watching life being lived.
What’s not to love about the fabulous cuisines of our northern neighbours?
Family Holiday to Bali
Saturday 17th October 2009
Travel Counsellor: Natalie Freeman
This was my fourth time to Bali and each time I go back there I have a completely different experience. This time it was seeing it through a child's eyes. My daughter was 16 months old when we travelled - this being her first overseas trip. I needn't of worried though, the Balinese loved her. They were always talking to her and giving her high fives. She was a big hit with everyone there.
When we arrived in Bali we were met with our pre arranged driver Sanny. This is something that I definately recommend whilst you are there. He was fantastic as he had already installed a child car seat so that was one thing that we didn't need to worry about. He also had an esky of cold drinks ready to go - something that was very welcoming as you walk out of the airport and into the Bali sunshine.
Soon enough we were adjusting and settling ourselves into 'Bali Time'. There is no hurry to get anywhere really. The traffic can get bad but no one really seems to care. The toots of the car and bike... view full story
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