Malaysia is one of the most fascinating countries in the region with a rich diversity of cultures, scenery and resort variety. Peninsula Malaysia stretches down from the border with Thailand in the north through to Singapore in the south. On the separate island of Borneo you have the states of Sarawak and Sabah. Flying time from UK is approx. 12 hours to Kuala Lumpur (known as KL). Onward travel to Penang or Langkawi is one hour, two hours to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah and Kuching, Sarawak.
Singapore offers a fantastic selection of restaurants and night-life, as well as parks, museums, and on Sentosa Island, beaches.
The skyline is maybe more North American at first glance but, like Hong Kong, go below the obvious and it has some traditional and busy little street markets that offer a perfect contrast to the numerous shopping malls. In our view, Singapore is the very best introduction to the region for the first-time Asia traveller. Plan to spend at least 2 clear days as there is so much to see.
One of the great city destinations. Exciting with a pace of life that has two speeds, fast and faster! Essentially the city is split in two, separated by the harbour. You have either Kowloon side or Hong Kong island, with good connections linking the two, either by Star Ferry or by the highly impressive MTR subway Link. Travel time from UK approximately 12 hours.
Hong Kong is without doubt one of the most charismatic cities, in our view an absolute must on any Far East touring holiday. Superb shopping, either in the upscale malls or the more authentic street markets. Equally good sightseeing, with a visit to one of the many small islands offering a total contrast – but try to avoid weekends or public holidays. Visit the Peak for super views. Fantastic variety of cuisine.
Indochina is the collective name for Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, the former French territories in the region. Despite huge changes in the last decade, the French influence still remains in majestic colonial buildings, the art scene and of course the food. Vietnam is also the country that is developing fast with many new hotels and resorts, but it still remains a totally enthralling place to visit.
For the curious traveller, the journey into Laos is a rewarding and fantastic experience. Part of what was known as Indo-China, the collective name for the former French Territories in the region. Whilst Vietnam and Cambodia were prized possessions, Laos was seen more as “buffer” value against invasion. It remains one of the less developed (and least populated) countries in south-east Asia. Laos is a hidden gem, with a less frantic pace than all of its neighbours.
Of all the countries in the region, it is the least openly commercial and interested in western-style consumerism. It has a delightful serene, totally laid back style, with Buddhism dominating every aspect of day to day life.
