Asia, the world’s largest and most populous continent, is also the one that attracts the most tourists. And why shouldn’t it? With a past soaked deep in the Orient and the present rising the waves of technology, this continent is at once a mix of old and new, and a true delight. So, without further ado, here are the three top destinations in Asia to fly to in 2013.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap is a rapidly growing city that hosts a plethora of new hotels and nightclubs. But almost all of the tourists that come here are not for this city, but for something amazing nearby – the awe inspiring ancient temples of Angkor Vat. The Angkor Archaeological Park opens before sunrise, offering a great view of the sun rising over Angkor Vat, and closes at night, giving you time to enjoy and absorb this ancient architecture and all that it stands for.
Beijing, China
Planned two hundred years ago by Kublai Khan, Beijing stands as a true symbol of the amalgam of past and future. History buffs can go crazy with the many palaces, gardens and temples of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The great wall of China is something that no one wants to miss. Apart from the old, Beijing revels in the new. You can go see the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, Tiananmen Square, green parks, and the likes. For those flying one could potentially consider cheap flights on flights24.com as an option for booking tickets.
Shanghai, China
Shanghai is the confident and composed face of today’s China, and its energy is viral. There are fashionable clubs to drink and dance the night away, or just observe the multitude of people pass by in People’s Square. And if you still have not tasted Chinese cuisine yet, get ready for your mind to be blown. Consider staying longer in Shanghai or Beijing by seeking employment as an expat by teaching English in China.
Mary blogs about hot spots in Asia and discounted flights.
{ 29 comments… read them below or add one }
That’s right Asia has so many things ,if someone plans to almost explore everything ,a second life would be needed. From the cultural festivals to the commercial events, I find everything unique and attention drawing. By the way , you didn’t include India in your Asia’s list , Samuel? Thanks
Thanks! I should have included India!
I would say Sri Lanka can be one of the top 3 spots in the list of Hot Asia Destinations for 2013. And Burma too!
Great suggestion! I’ve yet to visit Sri Lanka but I’ve heard rave reviews from other travellers.
Samuel recently posted..Entertainment to Take With You When Travelling
Asia is definitely a hot-spot for tourists and it’s no surprise. This is my favourite part of the world (so far). Having been to these 3 cities, travelled all over SE Asia and currently living in China, I would add a few places to this list:
Myanmar – No city in particular, the whole country!
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – There’s just something about this city. The melting pot of cultures and cuisines, the vibe and the sights…I love it here.
Hong Kong – This is one of the most interesting cities: The contrast between old and new, the mix of cultures, the infrastructure and the cuisine.
Oh, and anywhere in India and Sri Lanka!
Thanks for the post.
Dariece – Goats On The Road recently posted..Moving To Yangzhou, China
Great suggestions! Hong Kong is certainly one of my favorite cities
Samuel recently posted..Entertainment to Take With You When Travelling
From personal experience I would includ Kerala, in the south west of India, to explore the backwaters. Also, Laos’ capital Vientiane, which still maintains the feel of a sleepy rural town. You need a lifetime to discover everything Asia has to offer, but it would be well worth it.
Addison S. recently posted..Comment on Somalia Visa by Overview of the Different Types of Somalia Visas « visahunter
Most definitely agree with you! The more you travel in Asia the more you realize just how much there is to see and do.
Samuel recently posted..Entertainment to Take With You When Travelling
Hey Sam, are these places you’re going to? or have been? Shanghai would be an interesting place for sure but Siem Reap rounds out the top 3 in my SE Asia list.
Definitely agree with you about Siem Reap! I’ve stayed there for durations of longer than a week at times.
Would love to visit these places! Japan and India could have been there in the list too
Arti recently posted..Hello Nara – Planning and Welcome
I most definitely agree with India!
Samuel recently posted..Entertainment to Take With You When Travelling
I’ve been there and loved all those places, although I’d definitely recommend Laos maybe even more
Jarmo recently posted..London Autumn – Photo essay
Laos has a chilled out vibe that few other countries in the region can compete with
Great places to visit in 2013. China looks fasinating. Its amazing how China has changed in the last 10 years as far as economy is concerned hence it is worth checking out not to mention the food and also the cultural aspects of it.
Shalu Sharma recently posted..Pangong Tso Lake
It sure has changed Shalu! I think now is a good time to go before it becomes too expensive.
Samuel recently posted..Entertainment to Take With You When Travelling
Awesome post and beautiful photos. I’ll definitely have to make it to China someday! Hong Kong is also a really cool place to see in Asia – I went last summer and there seems to be an endless number of things to do. Night markets are a must-see!
Kay Rodriguez recently posted..Announcements From the Dorm Room: The Last Day of Classes 2012 Edition
Agree with you about Hong Kong! One of my favourite cities on the planet
Samuel recently posted..Entertainment to Take With You When Travelling
Looks like Asia is the HOT( well, literally) continent for travel in 2013. But you forgot to include Sri Lanka. It seems to be attracting tourists, a lot of them, these days. I hope to travel to China some day. And not just Beijing or Shanghai. The whole of it!
I agree with you that Sri Lanka seems to be one of the new hot spots to visit these days
Hey Samuel I am heading to Asia for a few months next year and as usually thanks for the great info about what places to go. You’re the man.
I love Beijing and Shanghai, in which both with totally different experience. Shanghai is well known for its urbanization while Beijing is more highlighted on its historical leftovers. In Beijing, you must visit the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven as well as the magnificent Great Wall.
Asia not just limited to 3 spots. There are so many other amazing spots to travel like Thailand, Singapore, India, Malaysia etc. One can spend their vacations and enjoy at these destinations. Shanghai is another good option.
I definitely agree with you Peter. I’ve been travelling in Asia for years and I feel like I’ve hardly seen anything.
I was hoping to see something about Singapore in this post, I’m planning on going there in September. Hopefully I can fly to China for a few days and check out Beijing too.
There are so many places to visit in Asia why you guys only focus on China? Anyways good post.
I’m planning to go back to Asia for a fourth time this year and hit some of the more distant venues – like Burma, the Philippines and Indonesia – that didn’t easily fit into my earlier overland trips.
What are your favorite places in Asia?
Jeff | Planet Bel recently posted..My Favorite Island in the World – Malawi’s Likoma Island
Beijing , China, is one of the largest and most important cities of the world.The Ming and Qing emperors of China built an impressive palace in the center of Beijing,In the southeastern part of the city lies the Temple of Heaven, a Taoist complex.
That image of Beijing is stunning. I think one of the main appeals to Asia is, like you mentioned, the rich history. The continent has held on to its traditional values and beliefs so well, whilst at the same time embracing the future. It’s definitely something I’m going to have to put on the list of places to visit.
Rafting Wales recently posted..Protected: Child Safety Outdoors