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Asia is our homeland. We'll show you Asia, better than anyone else!

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We are proudly Asia Tour Experts Specializing in Asia Private Tours & Tailored Travel

100% Personalized Itinerary

Hassle-free and uniquely personalized! You'll get a completely flexible trip plan tailored to your individual interests, wishes and budget. Our Inside Travel Experts will give you professional advice, and it's you who decides how many days to travel, where to visit and where to stay.

Private Guide, Car & Driver

You always have private driver & private car flexible upon your travel schedules. Especially, in your Private Tour, our experienced and knowledgeable private guide will show you the hidden gems and inspire you with the most interesting local stories to gain a more in-depth understanding of each exotic country.

Handpicked Hotels & Meals

Whether you are looking for a romantic resort or a boutique hotel, authentic cuisine or street food style; our Asia Tour Experts'll create the lifetime journey around your needs & wants with our best hand-picked collection of accommodation and restaurants.

Trip Managing Experts

Travelling with us means having a dedicated, friendly & professional team by your side every step of the way and always ready to help whenever you need. Our Inside Travel Experts are available 24/7 and take care of everything to make sure you can enjoy the travel experience of a lifetime and get unforgettable memories.

We Design " AsiaTours " Your Way Best Tailor-made Private Asia Tours For You

We offer a wide range of Asia tour itineraries covering most popular countries such as Vietnam , Cambodia , Laos , Myanmar , Thailand , Indonesia , Malaysia , Singapore , Philippines , China , Japan , Bhutan , Nepal , India , Sri Lanka ... All Asia Tours can be customized easily & start on any date you want.

The Land of Timeless Charm

Charming beaches, breathtaking scenery, outstanding caves, golden terraced rice fields, rich history, cultural diversity, delicious and healthy cuisine. Vietnam is a country situating on the Indochina Peninsula in Southeast Asia where is the home to many fantastic destinations...

The Land of Temples and Towers

Awe-inspiring famous ruins & temples (Angkor Wat Complex), turbulent past, laidback islands, untouched jungles, rich heritage & natural beauty. Cambodia, the Kingdom of Wonder, situates to the South portion of the Indochina Peninsula. The country is known to be the Khmer...

The Land of Million of Elephants

The landlocked nation with tranquil natural beauty & laid-back vibe, ecotourism, adventure-lite travel, gorgeous mountain views and multi-cultural. Laos is a hidden gem of Southeast Asia where remains forgotten treasures you can't find elsewhere in the region...

The Land of Golden Pagodas

Outstanding ancient pagodas & temples, the most Buddhist country in Southeast Asia, surreal & strikingly landscapes and unforgettable experiences. Myanmar attracts tourists by the inherent beauty of an enigmatic Buddhism country with majestic golden pagodas...

The Land of Smiles

Crystal turquoise beaches & luxury bungalows/hotels, ancient monasteries, off-the-beaten trekking adventure, delicious & tasty food and meditation retreat. Thailand, "Land of Smile", is regarded as one of the most attractive destinations in Southeast Asia...

The Land Of Thousands of Islands

The most colourful country in Southeast Asia with thousands of islands, richness culture, multiple religions, species diversity,stunning and dreamy beaches. Indonesia is likely to be one of the most colourful Southeast Asian Destinations...

The Land Of Harmony In Diversity

A dynamic Asian country with a vibrant atmosphere, a lively capital with numerous skyscrapers, abundant wilderness & various natural and cultural beauties. Malaysia is an ideal destination for travellers of all ages. Bustling streets, indigenous beauties...

The Land Of Contemporary Passions

A little island country yet possesses a sublime medley of many attractive aspects from lifestyle, culture, cuisine to recreations and shopping. Singapore, one of the main hubs in Asia, owns all the best of a young and dynamic destination...

The Pearl of the Orient Seas

An attractive archipelago with endless charms of dreamy beaches, mixing cultural beauties, diverse ecosystems, and picturesque sceneries. Further to the easternmost of the Orient Seas houses a mesmerizing place where sun, clouds, and seas meet, that's the Philippines...

The Cradle of Oriental Civilization

China is not only famous for the richness of heritage but also a huge collection of travel types on offer from cultural and historical enlightenment. Our best China Tours collection focuses on bringing the real local experiences...

The Land of Rising Sun

An endlessly fascinating country with the cultural uniqueness and natural beauty that you can't find anywhere else in the world. Japan is a truly captivating destination for travellers to explore, we are delighted to offer a wide range of best Japan tours...

The Land of the Thunder Dragon

A little landlocked Himalayan country where is famous for its remaining indigenous Buddhist traditions, unspoiled landscapes, and wonderful hospitality... Discover the enchanting beauty of "The happiest country in the world" and you will find the inner peace deep in your soul.

The Land of the Himalayas

One of the world's great travel destinations with colourful cultural tapestry, rugged trails to Himalayan peaks, and wild jungle adventures that make you return over and over again. Nepal is a paradise for trekkers and culture enthusiasts with incredible Himalayan ranges...

The Land of Incredible Heritages

A great country that predominantly occupies parts of South Asia with the bustling cities & streets, exotic tribal villages, impressive ancient monuments, traditional ceremonies and more, India Tours will offer you a trip of a lifetime!

The Pearl of the Indian Ocean

A captivating tropical island with an abundance of mesmerizing landscapes, exotic wildlife, charming cultures, golden beaches and warm hospitality from locals, Sri Lanka is perfect for those in love with pristine tropical beaches, incredible landscapes and rich cultures...

Inspiring Best Asia Tour Itineraries

Embark on a journey of discovery with Asia Tours , where you can experience the rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and mouth-watering cuisine of this diverse and fascinating continent. From ancient temples to modern cities, pristine beaches to rugged mountain landscapes, our customized Asia tours will take you on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Asia.

Thailand & Bali Culture & Beach Exploration

Asiatours expert.

We are here to help you

As its name, the tour combines Thailand and Bali's highlighted cultural and beach treasures that define two nations as hottest Southeast Asian travel destinations. Travelling to significant gorgeous sacred temples in Bangkok, Ayutthaya, and Ubud as well as freely unwinding on alluring sandy beaches...

Gorgeous Journey through Thailand, Laos, Vietnam & Indonesia

As its name, this itinerary is regarded as a classic route that travels across the remarkable should-stop attractions of Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Indonesia for any travel enthusiasts. Along with well-arranged activities in each stop, the trip takes you to experience some of the best and most...

Amazing Vietnam, Thailand & Singapore Vacation

You are looking for a vacation in Southeast Asia that combines incredible wide range of cultural and natural beauties? Our 14-day tour program, which takes you to explore Vietnam, Thailand, and Singapore, will serve you all. Covering some of the most attractive Southeast Asian cities including...

Perfect Blend of Singapore, Malaysia & Thailand Tour

Uncovering the history richness and distinct cultural blend in the trio of fantastic countries: Singapore, Malaysia & Thailand, this 12-day tour package is a true amazing expedition combining both classic routes and active local experiences. Specially made for dynamic highlights-oriented buffs, the...

Panoramic View of Thailand, Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia

20 days of our Thailand, Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia tour will unveil the Southeast Asian diverse splendor, from Thailand's timeless elegance, the exotic serenity in Laos, dazzling Vietnam's natural and cultural mosaic and majestic ancient Khmer Empire's legacy of Cambodia. Throughout this awesome...

Uncover Gems of Southeast Asia Tour

A land of extremes, Southeast Asia showcases the power of nature in its immense jungles, volcanic islands, country-spanning rivers, and rainbow-colored coral reefs. Whether you are snaking through the Mekong Delta in Vietnam or snorkeling with whale sharks off the coast of the Philippines,...

Into the Heart of Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Tour

Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand are three of the most alluring countries in Southeast Asia. Our 12-day package is well designed to take you through the marvels of culture, history and wildlife, the incomparable landscapes, and the endless wonder to explore. From the legendary Halong Bay, the ancient...

Raw Beauty of Thailand, Vietnam & Cambodia

When it comes to a package traversing through Thailand Cambodia Vietnam, anyone will undoubtedly expect a classic expedition that enables to feel the most iconic highlights in these trio of Southeast Asian countries. This 16-day trip encapsulates within itself Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam's...

Asia Tours 11 - 16 Days

Stunning Thailand

The package is an ideal itinerary for those who are interested in Thailand's most classic cultural and natural highlights. Warming up the trip with fascinating city tour around capital city of Bangkok, where is the home to numerous landmarks and amazing street gastronomy, you will head out of city...

Ultimate Family Trip to Thailand & Vietnam

This 13-day Vietnam Thailand package covers all the most classic and recommended family-friendly travel destinations in both countries, which enables anyone choosing the trip enjoy family holiday in Southeast Asia at their happiest and most comfortable way. Being an interesting composition of Viet...

Singapore, Malaysia & Indonesia Classic & Beach Tour

For those who are more into sun-sand-sea interests, this 2-week packages will let you travel through the most iconic beach destinations in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. Beside free time enjoying your own leisure on Langkawi and Bali's white sandy beaches, prominent stops in two metropolises of...

Asia Tours 6 - 10 Days

Wonderful thailand family vacation.

This holiday package enables you along with your kids to travel through Thailand's top three highlighted destinations: Bangkok, Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. Our specially tailor-made 8-day journey takes you to immerse in the vibrant ambiance through bustling streets in the capital city of Bangkok,...

Wonderful Singapore Family Vacation

Singapore is an island metropolis with well-built townships and a wealth of activities for tourists of all types to explore. On this exciting family-bonding 9-day tour package, you and your children will have a great chance to enjoy kid-friendly activities and visit the most entertaining...

True Beauty of Japan

Japan's culture is an attractive fusion of the old and the new. Over nine action-packed days spent in Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo, you'll get to know all sides of this fascinating country. Explore Tokyo's past and present, and travel through Osaka's neon-lit streets. Experience Japanese culture up...

Asia Tours 2 - 5 Days

Best of northern thailand.

This amazing 5-day tour has been well-tailored and hand-picked for explorers and culture lovers to take in the spectacular beauty of the Golden Triangle in northern Thailand. Mainly focusing on the two charming cities of the north, Chiang Rai & Chiang Mai, this journey offers you various chances to...

Northern Vietnam Highlights

This package of Hanoi – Ha Long – Ninh Binh 5 days offers us to explore the best highlights and the most stunning scenery of Vietnam Northern : Hanoi - the unique Asian city with tree-lined boulevards, French colonial architecture, peaceful lakes and oriental pagodas and temples; the history of...

Interesting Family Trip in Singapore

For travelling families with kids, Singapore is an promising destination in Southeast Asia due to its wide range of offerings for a wonderful family vacation. With many kid-friendly attractions ranging from wildlife to entertainment as well as sufficient service across the country, your family will...

Asia Tours 1 Day

Luxury halong bay one day tour.

Experience majestic Halong Bay in one day from Hanoi, you will have chance to immerse incredible scenery of limestone karst formations and cruising at leisure across some of the most hidden and unspoilt routes of the bay. You will also get an opportunity to discover most popular attractions on Ha...

Full Day Trip Floating Market – Kanchanaburi

This full-day tour from Bangkok is a great journey that combines a stop by the lively Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and a visit to the charming province of Kanchanaburi. Through the narrow canals on a long-tail boat, you will get an insightful view of the most popular Thai floating markets where...

Angkor Temples Cycling Adventure

This full-day biking tour is a fantastic way to explore the grandeur of Angkor temples and experience the lush Cambodian countryside settings around the heritages. You will not only discover the most highlights of the Angkor Archaeological Park as other tourist trails but also visit the...

Asia Tours 16 - 20 Days

Essence of vietnam, thailand & malaysia.

Start in Hanoi and end in Kuala Lumpur, the Essence of Vietnam, Thailand & Malaysia tour is the best introduction to the beautiful Southeast Asia that focuses on experiencing cultural, religious, and historic sites. During this 18-day trip, you will explore top destinations in three countries, from...

Incredible Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand & Indonesia Tour

Purposely combining modern highlights in bigger cities with multiple inviting things-to-do and outstanding natural sites should not be missed in any itineraries, we planned a travel schedule that is suitable for all types of travelers, which lasts 19 days traversing through Vietnam, Thailand,...

Deep Insight Indochina

This 30-day trip from Vietnam to Cambodia, and Thailand is intended for travelers who want to experience the best of Indochina, including its rich cultural heritage, historic temples and pagodas, stunning natural scenery, and genuine way of life of local people. Your journey will begin in Hanoi,...

Asia Tours by Styles

Best asia tours.

Welcome to Asia, the vibrant and inspiring land of diverse culture, nature, history and tradition waiting to be discovered. Connect to the fascinating countries of Asia - Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, China, Japan, Nepal, Bhutan,...

Asia Classic Highlights

Discover your own classic Asia with our unforgettable tours throughout the highlights of fascinating countries (e.g., Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines, China, Japan, Nepal, Bhutan, India and Sri Lanka). Regardless of your preferred group...

Asia Family Tours

If you are looking for a destination to travel with your family members, Asia could be a perfect choice. Join our Asia Family Tours with a variety of memorable and first-hand experiences in Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines, China, Japan,...

Asia Beach Holidays

Leave your stressful days behind and travel to Asia for an amazing beach holiday. Having a worldwide reputation for its breath-taking views, peaceful islands and stunning beaches, Asia provides a list of terrific beach destinations (e.g., Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia, Indonesia,...

Asia Luxury Tours

Asia is a wonderland for any explorer who is looking for the most intriguing experiences unlike anywhere in the world. This land offers experiences of the contrast between old and new, traditional and modern which could cater to every whim. At Asia Tours, we offer a great collection of Asia Luxury...

Asia Honeymoon Tours

A honeymoon trip to the lands of love, romance and peace is something each couple could not miss to get a perfect beginning to the new marriage life. Whether you are looking for a honeymoon vacation on tropical islands with pristine beaches and luxury resorts or desiring to visit cities of exotic...

Asia Active Tours

Being the largest continent on Earth and famous for its cultural diversity along with the hottest travel destinations, Asia is a great place for the active traveller. There are an array of options for the more adventurous minded such as kayaking along tranquil bays or around pristine islands,...

Asia Cruise Packages

Asia is a harmony of countless cultures, tranquil landscapes and incredibly hospital people. A cruise package to Asia is an exciting journey to discover some of the world's hottest travel destinations on one unforgettable vacation. From port to port, you will have a chance to discover picturesque...

Asia Day Trips & Short Breaks

Day trips and short breaks in Asia are the best choices for those who do not have much time in a destination while wishing to have some short but fulfill experiences. At Asia Tours, we offer a wide range of day trips and short excursions in which tourists will enjoy private guided experiences and...

Asia Special Interests Tours

Asia is best known for its ancient cultures, timeless beauty of legendary landmarks and alluring natural places that also offers travelers with special interests plent of impressive tour packages. Take an extremely relaxing spa and wellness treatment. Visit ancient and modern masterpieces of art...

Asia Culinary Tours

Asia is a paradise of open-air bazaars, exotic indigenous spices, tropical fruits, and vegetables which tempt the taste buds of cuisine lovers from all over the world. From the vibrant night markets of Thailand, the special blue rice – Nasi Kerabu in Malaysia, the delicious nuances of Khmer...

Asia Local Life Tours

Asia is a continent which has different countries blessed with rich culture, exotic destinations, and beautiful attractions which offers very diverse travel options. If you are planning a trip and wishing for real-life, honest and authentic experiences in Asia, Local Life Tours is a great choice....

Asia Nature & Wildlife Tours

Blessed with plenty of wildlife attractions (e.g., Kalimantan Island, Sumatra Island, Sabah, Sarawak,  Danjugan and Bohol), a wide variety of terrain and the stunning landscape, Asia is a truly home to the most wonderful wildlife which you won’t find in many places on Earth. In our Asia...

We are here to take the stress out of the tour & holiday planning process. Let us help you plan an unforgettable journey of lifetime with High Quality & Affordable Price. Surely, you will feel satisfactory!

The authentic & unique experiences in asia you can expect

Home to some of the world's most ancient cultures and captivating destinations, Asia is a wonderful land of diverse beauty and uniqueness that offers a variety of dreamy journeys for every type of traveler.

Visit one of the largest mosque in india - Jama Masjid

The Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India and also a major Islamic worship place in the capital city of Delhi. In Arabic, Jama Masjid means “Friday mosque", which indicates that it is...

Dolphin watching in Lovina Beach

Lovina Beach is one of the famous tourist destinations in northern Bali due to its most favorite fascination, dolphin watching tour. On such tours, you will get up early before sunrise and take a...

Exploring the unique beauty of Dark and Bright Cave by bamboo boat

Belonging to Halong Bay but close to the border of Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, the Dark and Bright caves are an enclosed group of islands, surrounded by lime-stone mountains. Booking a Halong bay...

Visit The Famous Golden Triangle

If you enjoy a holiday in Chiang Rai province in northern Thailand, do not miss the chance to see the infamous Golden Triangle where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. Locally known as Sop Ruak since...

Discover the famous ancient Angkorian temples in Siem Reap

A tour in Siem Reap will never be complete without an excursion around impressive Angkor temples. There are hundreds of them but make sure your discovery includes the most highlighted spots like:...

Discover the collective historical charms in central Kyoto

Former imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto is world famous for its large collection of 17 UNESCO World Heriatge Sites and numerous rewarding spots scattered throughout the stunning suburbs. Exploring...

Boat out on the mighty Mekong river and discover rare dolphins

Board a local boat and cruise out on the mighty Mekong River to get up close to freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins at Kampi, 15 km north of Kratie. Journey through rural villages along the Mighty Mekong...

Explore major tourist attractions on Boracay's inland

Boracay is a popular tourist destination in the Philippines known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. But if you're planning a half-day inland tour on Boracay, famous attractions on the...

Visit Giant Panda Breeding Research Base in Chengdu

The giant pandas are not only a Chinese national treasure but are also beloved by people all over the world. Being the endemic animal of China, but now giant pandas are only found in their the...

Asia Travel Guide & Inspirations

Top 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia, a region rich in cultural diversity and natural wonders, boasts an array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that...

Exploring the Top Asia Tour Destinations of 2024

In 2024, Asia continues to allure travelers with its diverse tapestry of cultures, rich history, and stunning landscapes. From...

How To Plan A Trip to Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia

Embarking on a journey through the captivating lands of Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia promises an adventure brimming with...

8 restaurants with excellent Burmese taste

Are you seeking local eating places which offer local and relaxed vibe at the same time? Below collection is specially picked out...

Best Recommended: Thailand & Vietnam Itinerary 2 weeks

Embarking on a two-week journey through Thailand and Vietnam is a thrilling adventure that promises a rich tapestry of cultural...

Best Indonesia Tour Plans for Nature Lovers

Indonesia is not only a charming country full of culture and heritage but also a destination of outstanding natural beauty that...

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Asia Tours, Vacations & Travel Packages

Our Asia Vacations and Tours

If the allure of the Far East tempts you to plan a visit to Asia, you might face a tough decision! Which destinations do you select in the world’s largest continent? No two Asia tours are quite alike, and each country has its own special appeal. There are differences in language, history, customs, religions, cuisines and local scenery. Goway offers group, independent, family, luxury, and active travel plus much more across over 20 countries in Asia. Click to learn more about the Goway Asia difference.

Asia Travel Highlights

China tours and beyond.

China is the fastest-developing country in the world. China travel provides the opportunity to see where this destination is heading as well as being able to experience its 4000-year history. Beijing’s highlights include the Great Wall and the Imperial Palace, also known as the Forbidden City. Shanghai is, in many ways, China’s city of the future. Xian , China’s ancient capital, is home to the legendary 2000-year-old Terra Cotta Warriors. Guilin has stunning tropical scenery and landscapes. Suzhou has fascinating canals and ornamental gardens and Kunming is the centre of numerous ethnic minorities, illustrating some of China’s diversity. Then there is Tibet with its fabulous and immense Potala Palace, the dramatic and beautiful Yangtze River with its fjord-like scenery, and the historic Silk Route of China stretching right across the country. All this is just a small part of a large world to be discovered on your China trip.

Japan Travel: Still One of a Kind

Japan brings together the past and the present in its major cities, including Tokyo , Kyoto , Osaka , Nagoya and Hiroshima . It is a land of tradition with its castles, temples and shrines together and with its many special occasions such as the Blossom Festivals. Yet it is also a modern land that inspires innovation and wonders with its speeding bullet trains and the latest electronic gadgets. The cuisine is all Japan’s own, ranging from simple grilled meats to delicately prepared ramen noodles and sushi, uniquely flavoured seaweed tea, and some inexplicably delicious desserts.

Places to Visit in South Korea

South Korea combines the old and new as well, albeit while bringing a very different culture and approach. Enjoy the street markets, palaces and gardens in Seoul , the archaeological sites in the ancient capital of Gyeongju known as the “Museum without Walls”, the port city of Busan with its special temples and the tropical “Hawaii of Korea,” and the magical Jeju Island with its swaying palms and sandy beaches. Korean scenery varies from mountain ranges to forested national parks, and once you’ve had a taste, you’ll want to explore it all.

From Your Hong Kong Tour...

Hong Kong may only cover a small area but it is chock full of reasons to visit, at least for a few days. The hectic pace of everyday life in this dramatic setting charges the city with amazing energy. There is outstanding shopping, ranging from vibrant street markets such as the incomparable Stanley Market to stores selling luxury brand merchandise. The traditional side of Hong Kong can be found in its narrow alleyways and its many temples and pagodas. A must-do is a trip on the Star Ferry between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island.

A Tour of Macau

Not far away on a short ferry ride is Macau with its Portuguese influences reflected in its architecture, churches, fortresses and cuisine. A highlight is a thrilling walk around the outside of the Macau Tower while looking down on the city. 

Travel to Taiwan

Taiwan is a country with many natural attributes with a steep mountain chain running from north to south, lush forests, lakes and an abundance of natural beauty. Its capital, Taipei , is a busy centre of activity with the jewel in the crown being the remarkable National Palace Museum with its treasure trove of ancient Chinese artifacts. Two other highlights are Kenting National Park , Taiwan’s oldest national park and the exotic-sounding Sun Moon Lake , the largest natural lake in the country.

Beyond the Usual Philippines Tour

The Philippines is a land of natural beauty with volcanic mountains, scenic rice paddies, tumbling waterfalls, serene lakes and some of the best beaches in Asia. Manila offers a lively urban scene and an insight into the country’s Spanish rule through a visit to the old area of Intramuros. The major beach resorts include Boracay , Palawan and Cebu . For a change of pace, check out the Banaue Rice Terraces with their breathtaking scenic landscapes carved into the mountains.

Bali, Beach, Temples, and More in Indonesia

Indonesia’s highlights include the magical island of Bali which combines excellent beaches with picture-perfect villages, traditional temples, rice paddies and an active volcano. Take a side trip to the enchanting inland resort of Ubud with its mountain and valley setting and wonderful artisan shops. Archaeology fans should head to Java, specifically Borobudur with its 1200-year-old Buddhist relics and Prambanan with its centuries-old Hindu temple complex. Then, there are the legendary Komodo Dragons on the island of Komodo , the world’s largest lizards and a must-see for brave wildlife lovers.

Food and Culture in Singapore

Singapore is a melting pot of three distinct cultures, Malay, Chinese and Indian which all come together in the country’s architecture, traditions, food and people. There are modern high-rises and colourful neighbourhoods such as Chinatown and Little India. Other highlights are outdoor dining on the Singapore River, a visit to the interesting Jurong Bird Park and to Sentosa Island with its museum, aquarium, beaches, shopping and restaurants.  

Malaysia Travel Packed with Adventure

There are many special attractions in Malaysia. There is the cosmopolitan capital, Kuala Lumpur , the island of Penang with its excellent beaches and charming, historical Georgetown, the hill retreats of the Genting and Cameron Highlands , the world’s largest rainforest, Taman Negara, the beautiful resort of Langkawi and the fascinating Portuguese and Chinese-influenced Malacca. 

A Unique Trip to Borneo

Malaysian Borneo offers interesting cities such as Kuching and Kota Kinabalu and South East Asia’s highest mountain, Mount Kinabalu plus the opportunity to stay with native tribes descended from headhunters in the jungle. Scuba diving in the south of Borneo is some of the best anywhere. Brunei , a small country that shares the island, boasts some unique architecture in its capital, Bandar Seri Begawan . This includes the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque and the Royal Palace. Other attractions include rainforests, wildlife and beaches.

Travel with Excitement to Thailand

Thailand is often called the land of smiles because of its gentle, friendly people. It is home to the exciting city of Bangkok teeming with life with its wonderful ornate palaces and temples, street markets, Chao Phraya River on which to take a cruise and its rambling backwater canals. A side trip to the River Kwai is well worthwhile, or to the nearby beach resorts of Pattaya , Hua Hin and Cha-Am.  For more excellent beach resorts, you can’t go wrong with Phuket , Ko Samui , Krabi , Phi Phi Island or Koh Lanta in Southern Thailand. Northern Thailand offers spectacular scenery and impressive cities such as Chiang Mai , the "Rose of the North" and Chang Rai. In this region, you can visit hill tribes, and experience a working elephant camp.

A Trip to Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos

The emerging destinations of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos each have their own character and attractions. Vietnam  has fascinating, lively metropolises such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi plus the old historical capital of Hue , the nearby atmospheric port of Hoi An , the beach resorts of Nha Trang and Phan Tiet , the amazing and spectacular Halong Bay and the scenic hill stations of Dalat and Sapa. The Mekong Delta offers lush tropical scenery and an insight into local rural life. Cambodia  is home to one of the world’s most amazing archaeological sites, Angkor Wat, with its extensive ancient temple complex. Laos‘s main attraction is the town of Luang Prabang with its colourful temples, exceptional night market and the daily parade of the monks. 

Once a closed country, Myanmar has now opened its doors to the world. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Shwedagon Pagoda, a city within a city containing many pavillions and shrines. Take in the” seeing is believing” landscape of the hundreds of Buddhist temples in Bagan .  Mandalay has a large collection of temples and pagodas and Inle Lake offers the opportunity to view colourful country life. Take a boat ride on the lake and observe the fascinating fishing villages. 

Why travel to India ?

Where to begin? In Delhi , you can experience the hustle and bustle of Old Delhi, visit Gandhi’s memorial, admire the impressive Jama Masjid Mosque, Humayan’s Tomb, the burial place of several Moghul emperors and the Qutub Minar, the tallest tower in India. In Mumbai , marvel at the Gateway of India overlooking the harbour, take in the attractive Marine Drive, visit Gandhi’s home, now a museum and visit the most amazing outdoor laundry, the Dhobi Ghats. Jaipur is known as the “Pink City” with its City Palace, the enigmatic Palace of Winds, the Jantar Mantar ancient observatory and the striking and majestic Amber Palace perched on top of a hill. No visit to India would be complete without seeing the Taj Mahal in Agra , the white marble mausoleum built by the order of the emperor Shah Jahan in the 1600s.

Arguably India’s most beautiful city, Udaipur is located on scenic Lake Pichola and offers marble palaces and beautiful gardens. Jodhpur has the immense and stunning Mehrangarh Fort located on the top of a hill. For beaches and history, head to Goa and for animal viewing, Ranthambore Tiger Sanctuary . For something unusual, check out the erotic temple carvings in Khajuraho. For ambience and an insight into the Hindu way of life, visit Varanasi and take an early morning boat ride on the River Ganges . Travel south to the attractive city of Cochin for Portuguese influences and the nearby fascinating backwaters of Kerala. 

Everest and Nepal Adventure

Nepal is synonymous with Mount Everest viewed from Kathmandu but that’s not all there is to see. The capital, Kathmandu will make you feel as if time has stopped still with its medieval atmosphere, palaces and Buddhist and Hindu temples. Nearby Bhaktapur is known for its woodcarvings, pottery and cloth weaving. Nepal is the place for treks, easy or hard, short or long. Many of these start in the scenic resort of Pokhara located on a beautiful lake. Animal lovers will enjoy a jungle safari in Royal Chitwan National Park .   

Sandwiched between India, China and Nepal, Bhutan is a unique and mysterious country full of colourful Buddhist monasteries, museums and local markets. It also has stunning scenery including snow-capped peaks and wooded valleys. It is a great place to experience resplendent festivals which take place constantly. 

Mongolia Travel Takes You Out There

Mongolia , the World’s largest landlocked country, was the home of the legendary Genghis Khan. It is also home to the Gobi Desert which is made up of mountains and forests as well as sand dunes. Try a stay here in a traditional yurt for a unique experience. Ulan Bator , which combines the traditional and the modern, is the place to see locals who still dress in their traditional clothes. Mongolia also has a number of national parks and nature reserves. 

Sri Lanka Tourism: On the Rise

Sri Lanka offers a combination of attractions such as excellent beaches, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. The capital Colombo offers museums, art galleries, an old fort and beaches. Kandy is the home of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth and an elephant orphanage. The Yala National Park is a special wildlife sanctuary. 

Maldives Resorts: Gateways to Paradise

The Maldives are a group of delightful coral islands where you can really escape. Check into your own overwater bungalow and immerse yourself in paradise. In addition to all the water sports, reef, and beach activities you could desire, many Maldives resorts offer such memorable activities as swimming alongside whale sharks, or even dining underwater. No matter what your Maldives vacation looks like, time will definitely slow down for you here! 

You’ll never unlock all the mysteries of Asia in just one visit. But there’s a good chance that the first glimpse of them will spark a strong desire to return, and possibly a lifelong love affair. Book your Asia tours today....you won't be disappointed.

Our Asia Tour Packages

Goway has an extensive range of tour packages and vacations to all areas of Asia. With over 340 trip ideas listed on this page, and the ability to extend, add locations and customize any part tour, we are dedicated to making your holiday in Asia one you will remember for a lifetime. 

Extend Tour Trip 

After your choice of an  Asia vacation , consider taking the time to visit other destinations. Goway offers exciting  China vacation packages ,  India tours  and  Thailand vacation packages  plus a comprehensive selection of vacation packages in many other Asian countries.

Best of South Korea & Japan

FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Discover the highlights of South Korea and Japan as you journey through culture, history, and nature. Start in bustling Seoul, then onto the historic temples of Gyeongju and the port city of Busan. Continue to Kyoto and some of Japan's most iconic gardens and temples. Understand the impact of Hiroshima before reveling in Japan's capital, Tokyo.

179 Trips Available

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Thailand for Foodies: Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Koh Samui

Classic Japan

Quintessential Japan: Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto & More

Romantic Maldives: Island Hopping & Undersea Dining

Ultimate Korea: Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan & Jeju

Signature Hong Kong & Bali

Tokyo, Seoul & Hong Kong City Explorer

Essential Hong Kong, Thailand & Cambodia

Romantic Bali

India Odyssey: Delhi, Jaipur, Ranthambore, Varanasi & More

Japan Winter Rail Discovery

Best of Southern Thailand: Phuket, Krabi, Khao Sok NP, Koh Phi Phi & Khao Lak

Signature Sri Lanka and Maldives

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China Signature: Beijing, Xian & Shanghai

Highlights of Borneo: Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, Danum Valley & More

Highlights of Laos: Luang Prabang, Vientiane & Vang Vieng

Japan Cherry Blossom Odyssey

Northern Thailand Adventure

Signature Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Phuket

Japan, Singapore & Thailand Beach Escape

Best of Japan World Heritage

India Deluxe Golden Triangle & Ranthambore

Luxurious Maldives with Airfare

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Admire the iconic Great Wall of China

Feel the enormity of China's Great Wall, stretching as far as the eye can see through luscious green valleys. With some fragments built nearly 3000 years ago, the historical significance of this fortification is not to be missed. Tackle just a small length of this 21,000-kilometer UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Wander through Angkor Wat

Take a journey to the world's largest religious monument and watch the sunrise onto the stillness of the Angkor Wat temple complex. The crumbling mosey portions of the Hindu turned Buddhist structures hold an eerie beauty that will stir you to the very core.

Enjoy some quality 'Me' time in Thailand

Land of smiles, cheap cocktails and expert massages, a trip to Thailand is a chance to unwind. Spend days floating in the Gulf of Thailand and roaming through shopping markets, interrupted only by fragrant Panang curries and fresh coconuts to cool you down.

Sail Halong Bay

Climb aboard a traditional wooden boat and take in the beauty of Vietnam's sea of limestone islands. The dramatic setting of Halong Bay will dazzle as you drift slowly around the emerald waters past many families that call the water home. An essential part of Asia travel packages, it has been named one of the new natural wonders of the world.

Stroll down the busy streets of Tokyo

Home to almost 14-million, the streets of Tokyo buzz with an energy that is hard to resist. Navigate through the swarm of pedestrians at Shibuya Crossing and admire elaborate dress sense in Harajuku. Even those called by empty mountains will find joy in the scenes of Japan's capital.

Our top 5 things to do in Asia

This enormous content offers such a diverse banquet of experiences it can be hard to know where to begin. From the busy streets of Tokyo to the world's largest religious site found in Cambodia, we'll share the very best on our Asia vacation packages. 

Temple of Heaven

The aptly named Temple of Heaven is a scene straight out of a mythical religious artwork. Stare up at the ceilings in the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests where a patchwork of color honors the seasons of the year. With construction finishing in the year 1420, this site holds limitless cultural significance.

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Pay tribute to the victims of Cambodia's brutal genocide that saw a quarter of its population lost in the early 1970's. The photos of those lost haunt the walls of Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, housed in a building that was once a center for prison and interrogation.

Tokyo National Museum

Take an artistic journey along the Silk Road to ancient and medieval days gone by at Tokyo National Museum, the 6th largest art museum in the world. Hosting many of Japan's national treasures and religious artworks with immense cultural significance, allow a whole day to soak up all this monument has to offer.

Best museums in Asia

A tapestry of history, art and modern culture are found peppered across this continent in its endless list of museums. These are just some of the places we'll visit on our Asia escorted tours.

With almost a thousand years of history held in a roll of seaweed, rice and raw fish, don't miss this important part of Japanese culture. Though it's now readily available in most parts of the world, you will find something special about the sushi experience in its homeland.

Pho has traveled a long way since it originated in the Nam Định province of Vietnam. Slurp down many bowls from lively street vendors and modern cafes, enjoying variations of the hot rice noodle broth covered in herbs. The country of Vietnam summed up in one soupy dish.

Peking Duck

Taste the Imperial era in slices of seasoned crispy skin duck. Best wrapped in thin pancakes with hoisin sauce and greens, this Chinese specialty is delicious whether consumed in a busy street market or upmarket restaurant.

Best food in Asia

It's hard to compete with the delicious fragrant dishes that originate across the expanses of Asia. With chopsticks in hand, we'll uncover the very best and learn of the many rituals and traditions woven into this continent's culinary banquet. 

What to pack for Asia

Charcoal tablets

Many visit Asia armed with a pharmacy of pills for the chance of illness. Prevention is always better than cure; take a natural daily supplement such as charcoal to ensure nasties are evacuated from your system as quickly as possible.

Cool full-length clothes

Many parts of Asia boast a sunny tropical climate that's perfect for days flopped by a pool or sea. When exploring, it can be somewhat uncomfortable. Pack light, full-length clothes so you can respectfully visit religious sites without sweltering.

Hand sanitizer

During your time in Asia, you might not always have access to soap and water to wash up before eating. Keep hand sanitizer available for clean hands and a happy stomach.

Insect Repellent

A bug spray will be your best protection against mosquitos and any other creepy crawlies that call Asia home. Pack a bottle to avoid unnecessary itch or illness.

Water purification devices

The purification of water has come a long way in recent years. Make your way to a specialist travel shop to discuss bottles, gadgets and tablets that will ensure you stay hydrated without falling ill.

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Asia Highlights, Explore Asia Your Way!

Asia, a complex mix of rich cultures and breathtaking landscapes, is an enticing yet challenging destination for any traveler.

With our helpful webpages for planning, expertise in customizing, and best-rated personalized Asia exploration service , Asia Highlights demystifies Asia's complexities , transforming them into seamless journeys and beautiful memories!

The Most Popular Asian Tours

We present our most popular tours according to customers' choices over recent years. You can treat them as inspiration for your private travel and tailor them according to your requirements.

8-Day Essential Japan Family Trip with Disneyland

2-week japan private family vacation, 12-day best of thailand and cambodia tour, 14-day vietnam, cambodia and laos itinerary: premium private tour, 15-day best of thailand, cambodia, and vietnam tour, 19-day highlights of southeast asia: thailand, cambodia, and vietnam.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

The Most Popular Festival Tours in Asia 2024/2025

8-day diwali festival in india golden triangle tour 2024, 10-day thailand lantern festival tour 2024, 11-day india holi festival tour 2024, 7-day japan cherry blossom tour 2025, 10-day japan cherry blossom tour 2025, 2 week japan cherry blossom tour, articles that interest asia highlights' clients most.

Our editors' team is dedicated to providing you with the most useful and up-to-date travel articles.

How to Plan an Incredible Family Trip to Japan

How to plan a japan cherry blossom trip, how to plan your first trip to thailand, how to plan a thailand and vietnam trip, how to visit thailand, cambodia, and vietnam, 10 days in vietnam: top 5 itineraries, 2 weeks in southeast asia: top 5 itineraries, 2 weeks in india: top 4 itineraries, the most popular travel destinations in asia.

For over 20 years, we have been committed to providing you with quality private tours that offer unique experiences in Japan , Thailand , Vietnam , Cambodia , Laos , Myanmar , Singapore , Indonesia (Bali) , India , Nepal , Bhutan , Sri Lanka , China , Mongolia, the Caucasus and Central Asia , whether it's for family fun, romantic couples, milestone celebrations, or checking off a bucket list .

Why Asia Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

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It was a whirlwind across a number of cities, but a very comprehensive experience across the many sides and cultures of China. Most days had sufficient activities, but weren’t overwhelming, which was great.Across cities, we had excellent tour guides, like Kitty (Beijing), Jenny (Xian), William (Guilin/Yangshuo), Kris (Shanghai), and Tony (Yellow Mountains.)

From the time we landed in Beijing until we left, we were well taken care of. My wife and I had Lily Liu as our guide and she was amazing. From arranging visits to all the different sights, to teaching us the history, it was fantastic.

The tour was excellent. Selinda was very knowledgeable about all the aspects of our tour. Selinda was very interesting and knew so much Chinese history

We made a private tour through South China in January 2024. Altogether Chengdu was the highlight. We had an incredible day at Emeishan. In Chengdu our guidewas Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

Other highlights are too many to mention but here are a few Ken taking us to the Terracotta Warriors and our food tour in Xian was amazing,

Our day volunteering at the Panda Base was truly unforgettable. Helen, our guide, provided us with invaluable insights about Chengdu and the pandas, enriching our tour with her knowledge and expertise. We're grateful to Helen for accompanying us throughout the day and showcasing the highlights of China.

We had a booking with China Highlights through Silvia Ye who guarenteed a perfect organisation. In Chengdu our guide was Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

We traveled to China during the Chinese new year and we had Kris as our guide and he is simply knowledgeable,helpful and great.

We visited Guilin for 2 days and stayed in the Guilin Waterfall hotel. Guilin was absolutely beautiful! Our guide, William, was very knowledgeable and kind! He taught us so much about Guilin and the surrounding area! We really enjoyed trying the specialty rice noodles of Guilin. Our highlight was the Li river cruise.

Amazing tour and the guide Mr. 贺霄 was very accommodating with our needs and request as we have bought our 2 years old with us. Well explained for all the place we visited. Any additional cost were informed well ahead and didn't felt any pressure if we opt not to go for additional detour. The trip was relaxing/ laid back/no rushing with zero shopping!

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Private Luxury Asia Tours for the Discerning Traveler

Private tours. tailor-made journeys. unforgettable experiences..

Kimberly Alva, California

The exotic Orient beckons, with its timeless traditions, magnificent architecture, pristine beaches and warm friendly faces. Experience the contrast between old and new, traditional and modern. Encounter ancient cultures and sample tantalizing cuisine. Discover history and hidden bargains at every corner. 

Asia is an explorer’s wonderland that rewards the visitor with the most intriguing travel experiences unlike anywhere in the world. Asia is alluring. It’s fascinating. It’s fun. It offers something for everyone and caters to every whim. Its irresistible combination of dazzling landmarks, striking natural beauty and heartwarming culture promises a lifetime of memories. And as of 2023, Explorient is proud to open our doors to Latin America with private tours to Peru, Argentina, Chile, Ecuador and Colombia to bring our travelers those same amazing experiences as those in the Far East. 

Visit China and feast your eyes with its endless arsenal of architectural masterpieces, breathtaking sceneries and remarkable history. Embark on a time journey to Vietnam, Cambodia or Myanmar and catch a glimpse of Southeast Asia’s timeless past as it gracefully races to catch up with the modern world. Immerse yourself in the Japan of Old strolling the quaint cobbled alleyways of Gion or experience modern Japan’s futuristic marvels, eclectic pop culture, and vibrant nightlife. Take a culinary lesson, jungle trek on an elephant’s back or recharge in the world’s finest spas in Thailand where “Fun” is taken to a whole new level. Try Yoga in beautiful Bali and find your soul overlooking Jimbaran’s golden shores, or if you prefer, in the surreal surroundings of Ubud’s spectacular rice terraces. Feel sheer excitement as you marvel Hong Kong’s stunning skyline, sample the planet’s best cuisine, or shop till you drop in this city of non-stop action. Fulfill that bucket-list adventure conquering the hills of Peru’s Machu Picchu, lose yourself in Chile Patagonia’s spectacular panorama and jaw-dropping glaciers, or chill out on board your very own catamaran cruising through Colombia’s Rosario Islands.  Whatever you wish for the perfect holiday, let Explorient overload your senses in ways that go beyond the imagination.

Come and elevate your long-awaited holiday experience on one of Explorient’s highly exclusive, highly personalized luxury Asia vacations or unforgettable Latin America tours that will exceed your highest expectations.

Your trip of a lifetime awaits. Read more

FEATURED DESTINATION: JAPAN

From UNESCO World Heritage sites to bustling cities like Tokyo and Osaka, Japan is a fascinating experience. Witness buildings with tea-cup-shaped balconies next to traditional ryokans and immerse yourself in the incredible festivals held all year round, celebrating gods and nature with art and delicious food. With Sakura blooming and autumn foliage, this country is an extraordinary destination that offers something for everyone.

Just about every corner in Japan promises something unique and heart-warming. From Tokyo’s out-of-this-world Teamlab Planets digital art phenomenon to Takayama’s thousand-year history of Samurai Warriors; Alpine skiing at one of Nagano’s world class ski slopes to relaxing in complete bliss at an onsen in Okuhida; street-food or bargain hunting in Osaka’s Dotonburi to spending a memorable day with the local farmers in Lake Biwa. Japan never ceases to amaze. 

Need more convincing? Here’s a list of seven reasons Japan should [always] be on your travel list .

WHY OUR TRAVELERS LOVE US?

• We know Asia better than anyone. Yes, that’s right.
• We care A LOT: we treat your trip like our very own (and more)
• We put people, quality and integrity above all
• Our customer service is unrivaled
• Our mission is to make your BEST trip ever!

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INTRODUCING LATIN AMERICA. South America boasts some of the most amazing natural & cultural wonders on the planet. Just about everywhere you go there is always a sense of intrigue, adventure and fun – from dazzling Incan ruins to breathtaking panoramas to fascinating wildlife. Starting in 2022, Explorient is proud to open its doors to Latin America beginning with a selection of meticulously crafted tours to Peru, Chile, Ecuador & Colombia.

Like our Asia trips, these South America vacations feature private tours, 4 and 5-star hotels, and immersive cultural experiences – each infused with a perfect balance of luxury, adventure and relaxation. 

And because our Peru, Colombia, Chile and Ecuador tours are private, these itineraries are fully customizable to suit your every desire – giving you endless possibilities to travel South America in style. If you can’t find a tour you absolutely love, simply call us and let one of our travel specialists help you craft that luxury adventure of a lifetime.

From discovering the mysteries of Peru’s Machu Picchu to glacier trekking in jaw-dropping Patagonia. Chilling on the virgin shores of Colombia to sandboarding atop the Atacama Desert. Cruising the Galapagos to exploring the Amazon Jungles. Latin America might just surprise you. 

Visit our Latin America Tours page and let’s make that dream South America adventure a reality. 

VISIT VIETNAM TODAY! No matter where you’ve been, how many exotic places you’ve visited, Vietnam will forever leave a special mark in your heart. Why? Because Vietnam is magical. Whether is the country’s stunning landscapes, the warm friendly faces who extend their welcome in the most genuine way, the tantalizing cuisine that has the world salivating, or the virgin beaches free of crowds and party-goers, Vietnam captures the soul in everyway imaginable. 

Immerse yourself in Vietnam’s rich tapestry of culture, cuisine, and hospitality. Overload the senses with vibrant markets, ancient temples, and breathtaking landscapes. Travel in style with your guide who caters to your every whim while indulging is some of the finest accommodations on the planet. 

Whether you’re seeking that extraordinary holiday on your honeymoon or romantic escape, longing for that family adventure thar is truly life-changing, or simply curious to see what the buzz around this incredible country is all about, Vietnam never ceases to disappoint. 

Our Vietnam tours are always private and highly personalized so you’ll be sure to experience this majestic land exactly the way you dreamed of it to be. 

OUR PRIVATE ASIA TOURS - BY DESTINATION

LUXURY ASIA VACATIONS & LATIN AMERICA TOURS - BY INTEREST

HERITAGE & CULTURE

HONEYMOONS & ROMANTIC GETAWAYS

ULTRA LUXURY TRAVEL

ACTIVE & WILDLIFE

Culinary tours.

FAMILY VACATIONS

SPA & WELLNESS

ASIA CRUISES

The explorient difference, private guides & drivers, private guide & driver.

Our definition of "private tour" simply means your tour, where all land arrangements are provided by your own private guide, vehicle and chauffeur, exclusively for your party, nobody else. This is especially paramount in the age of COVID-19. There is absolutely no better way to travel - Bar None. 

Personalized Itinerary

Personalized itinerary.

Our founding principle of “quality first” is ingrained in each & every one of our Asia tour products to fully maximize your vacation experience.  In addition to the flexibility inherent in our private tours, we can customize any existing tour or design a tailor-made Asia vacation specially just for you. 

Unmatched Expertise

Unmatched expertise.

Explorient only focuses on Asia, and have done so for the last 25 years. And because Asia is all we do, we know it like the back of our hands. Talk to one of us, you'll immediately see how Explorient stands apart. 

Unparalleled Service

Unparalleled service.

We treat your long-awaited Asia Vacation as our very own. Our esteemed travelers enjoy the peace of mind that they are looked after throughout their entire holiday experience - from the moment of their very first inquiry to the final return of their trip. 

Authentic Experiences

Authentic experiences.

Our Asia tours feature a myriad of unique experiences to allow our guests to fully immerse in the local culture. Street food tours, local village visits, countryside tours by electric bike, local craft-making, local school/orphanage visits are just a few example of these experiences. 

Steadfast Integrity

Innovative tour products.

Integrity is something often spoken of but seldom followed. Equally as important as service and quality is knowing that you are working with a company that puts your interests first. No matter the circumstance, however unexpected, Explorient will always do the right thing, at all costs - an old school way of doing business seldom found in today’s world.

ABOUT OUR LUXURY ASIA TOURS

Over the past 25 years, Explorient has helped thousands of travelers realize their dream vacations to Asia and the Pacific Rim. We furnish the widest array of innovative, highly exclusive, private luxury Asia vacation packages and tour products in the marketplace. Our vast portfolio of luxury Asia tours spans everything from blissful honeymoons to unforgettable family holidays, inspiring heritage journeys to out-of-this-world culinary adventures.

At Explorient, we treat your long awaited Asia vacation as our very own, meticulously attending to every detail in every aspect of your trip to make your journey the one to remember. Each of our 200+ luxury Asia tour packages is designed with maximizing your vacation experience in mind. Each destination, each hotel and each activity is carefully chosen to bring you the very best of the Orient. Our signature private tours ensure you receive highly personalized, worry free “white glove” service so you can simply focus on enjoying your long-awaited vacation. And because our Asia tours and vacations are always private, our itineraries are fully customizable to suit your travel style, tastes and interests – giving you endless possibilities to travel Asia – in style. If you can’t find an itinerary you absolutely love, simply call us and let one of our Asia luxury travel specialists help you craft that amazing trip of a lifetime.

Whether your holiday dream is to explore the virgin jungles of Malaysia Borneo, trace the footsteps of mankind atop China’s magnificent Great Wall, or unwind at one of Thailand’s idyllic beaches on the shores of the Andaman, Explorient will exceed your highest expectations.

OUR BLOGS ON ASIA TRAVEL

Everything You Need to Know about TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and more

Known Traveler Numbers (KTNs) revolutionize the airport experience by offering expedited security procedures for approved travelers. Programs like Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, and to a lesser extent NEXUS and SENTRI are leading initiatives, granting members access to shorter security lines, reduced screening procedures, and faster immigration clearance. In other

Discover Takayama: Japan’s Hidden Gem

Embark on a journey to Japan and discover the enchanting town of Hida Takayama. Nestled in the stunning Japanese Alps, Takayama offers unique glimpse into the country’s fascinating Samurai history with its an old town of unsurpassed charm and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go. This quaint little town

Mystical Japan: 7 Reasons It Should Be On Your Bucket List

From UNESCO World Heritage sites to bustling cities like Tokyo and Osaka, Japan is a fascinating experience. Witness buildings with tea-cup-shaped balconies next to traditional ryokans and immerse yourself in the incredible festivals held all year round, celebrating gods and nature with art and delicious food. With sakura blooming and

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These Are the Best Travel Agents in 2023

Travel + leisure luxury awards asia pacific 2023 reveals our readers’ picks of the best travel agents and specialists..

By: Marissa Carruthers Published: Jun 07, 2023 09:00 AM UTC

Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023 reveals our readers’ picks of the best travel agents and specialists who make all the arrangements, smooth the road bumps and uncover the coolest experiences. Tell them where you want to go, or even let them pick based on your taste and personality — then sit back and enjoy the amazing ride.

A SPECIAL SHOUT OUT HAS TO GO to the travel agents and specialists who pour their time and expertise into sniffing out special gems across the region to give us all of those memorable vacation moments. After all, where would we be without them? Scott Dunn emerged triumphant in this category, captivating readers for its dedication to detail, scouring the globe to hand-pick the most luxurious, unique and adventurous journeys, from major cities to remote villages, and vast rainforests to tiny tropical islands.

Smiling Albino ranked second for its ability to tailor-make luxury trips that cater to your every desire across Thailand , Cambodia, Laos, Nepal, Vietnam and Myanmar. (Want to ride a morlam bus across Isaan? Even if you have no idea of what that mean, we assure you the answer is yes.) An obvious trend in demand for carefully curated trips continues to run throughout the rest of the winners, with tailor-made travel stalwart, Trails of Indochina , ranking third; ultra-luxe players, Remote Lands , headquartered in both Bangkok and New York, coming in fourth place; and pioneers of the sustainable travel movement, Khiri Travel , being named fifth Best Travel Agent for 2023.    

Best Travel Agents + Specialists in Asia-Pacific

1. Scott Dunn

2. Smiling Albino

3. Trails of Indochina

4. Remote Lands

5. Khiri Travel

Check out the list of our readers’ picks of the Best Travel Agents and Specialists for 2023. And for all of this year’s Luxury Awards Asia-Pacific winners, click here .

Lede image courtesy of Scott Dunn.

• Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023
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Marissa Carruthers

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• Tour Operators

Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Asia 2024/2025

Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Asia. Below you will find 233 of the best tour operators and travel agencies in Asia offering in total 3417 tours and holidays through-out Asia. Combined they have received 9116 customer reviews and an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The top tour activities offered in Asia are: Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history, Adventure and sport & Wildlife, landscapes and nature.

• Tours in Asia
• Asia Travel Guide

233 Tour Operators in Asia with 9,116 Reviews

Travel Talk

• Address 18 Exhibition House Addison Bridge Place, London, England
• Response Rate 96%
• Response Time 2 hours

• Best-in-Class Top 5% of companies
• Excellent Service Top 10% of companies
• Superior Service Top 15% of companies

Threeland Travel

• Address 125 Hong Ha, Ba Dinh, Hanoi, Vietnam, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Response Rate 100%
• Response Time 1 hour

Nepal Eco Adventure Pvt Ltd

• Address Satghumti,Thamel , Kathmandu, Nepal, Nepal
• Response Rate 99%

Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Pvt. Ltd

• Address Chaksibari Marga, Thamel , Kathmandu, Nepal

H.O.T Tourism

• Address No. 220, High Level Road, Colombo 06, Sri Lanka,, Colombo, Sri Lanka
• Response Rate 77%
• Response Time 3 hours

Prestigo Asia

• Address 3C 144/4 Alley, Quan Nhan Streets, Nhan Chinh Ward, Thanh Xuan District, Hanoi, Vietnam

Vietnamese Private Tours, LTD

• Address 3 tong duy tan, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Response Rate 25%

The Dragon Trip

• Address Rm. 202, Building 4, 689 Xinhu Rd, Baoshan District, Shanghai, PR China , Shanghai, China

• Address 6 Fife Road, Kingston Upon Thames, Surrey,, London , England
• Response Rate 84%

Alpine Ramble Treks

• Address Sorkhutte, Nayabazzar, , Kathmandu , Nepal

Outshine Adventure Pvt Ltd

• Address Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
• Response Rate 97%

Vacations to Go Travel

• Address 56 Hassan Ma'moun St. Nasr City , Cairo, Egypt
• Response Rate 87%

Nepal Hiking Team

• Address Nayabazar, Kathmandu, Nepal
• Response Rate 89%

Truly China Travel

• Address 3 / F, Kaining Qixing Hotel, 17 Lijiang Road, Qixing District, Guilin, China
• Response Rate 90%

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Experts in tailor-made vacations to Southeast Asia

As the first part of the world we ever discovered, Southeast Asia will always be a little bit special. Regularly revisiting the region over decades, our specialists have built on their experiences. We can help you find the hidden corners of familiar destinations like Thailand or Vietnam , or plan the logistics of a more intrepid trip across the Philippines.

The region sweeps east from the landmass of Indochina and the Malay Peninsula to a string of archipelagos that jewel the Arafura Sea. Throughout this land, you’ll encounter a mosaic of indigenous dynasties touched by colonialism. You might come across saffron-robed monks, vibrant Hindu festivals or animalistic Marapu rituals. On a tailor-made vacation in Southeast Asia, you can focus in whichever direction you’d like, whether that’s spotting wild orangutan in Borneo or tasting the gastronomic delights of Malaysia .

Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Southeast Asia specialists

• 617-223-4521 617-223-4105
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Where you can travel with us in Southeast Asia

Our specialists can help you plan your trip, individually focusing on your tastes and interests, to the destinations below.

Trip ideas in Southeast Asia

These itineraries will give you a starting point for what your trip could entail. They cover routes that we've found work particularly well and feature some of our favorite places to stay. Treat them just as inspiration, as each trip is created uniquely for you and there are many more options available.

Luxury Thailand

11 days from $8,360pp

Thailand beach & rainforest escape

10 days from $3,050pp

Thailand for families: elephants & island escape

12 days from $3,245pp

Heart of Thailand tour

11 days from $3,990pp

Essential Vietnam tour

11 days from $3,765pp

Thailand family adventure

14 days from $4,495pp

Luxury tour of Vietnam

14 days from $12,995pp

Bali uncovered

14 days from $3,200pp

Orangutans & islands of Borneo

13 days from $3,995pp

Active Thailand: beyond the beaches

14 days from $6,280pp

Family Indochina: Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia tour

14 days from $7,570pp

Following the Mekong: Laos, Cambodia & Vietnam

20 days from $10,615pp

Our expert guides to exploring Southeast Asia

Capturing our specialists’ extensive travel experience in Southeast Asia, these guides share inspiration, recommendations and our honest advice for how to enjoy the best of what the region can offer in the most authentic ways. From the wealth of options we describe, you can narrow down the choices and start to shape your own trip.

Six Asian destinations to explore by boat

Our short video covers six destinations we’d recommend exploring by boat, from a cruise along the Yangtze in China, and the UNESCO heritage sites in Myanmar, to traveling along the historic trade routes of Indochina and exploring the islands and wildlife of Indonesia. We also cover a two day rice barge excursion in Thailand and river cruises in the northeast of India.

What to do in Thailand: our highlights guide

To travel to Thailand and only see the beaches is to miss a magical and enthralling experience. This guide delves more deeply into what you can see and experience in this diverse country.

Luxury vacations in Thailand

Our Thailand specialist Harriet has had the tough job of vetting some of Thailand’s most luxurious properties and exclusive experiences. Sharing her expertise, she’s picked out some of the best, including a sojourn in a 100-year-old rice barge and time in an opulent tented jungle camp.

Thailand's best beach vacations and resorts

The beaches of Thailand have always been alluring to travelers. We highlight some of the best beaches (and where to stay on them), all of which you can incorporate as a relaxing end (or start) to your journey in Southeast Asia.

What to do in Vietnam: our highlights guide

Visit a floating market on the Mekong Delta, try your hand at woodcut painting in Hanoi, or explore Ho Chi Minh City by vintage sidecar. Our guide will help immerse you in the sights, people and landscapes of Vietnam.

Honeymoons in Thailand

Combine culture, beaches and delicious food on a honeymoon in Thailand. We can advise on the best places to stay and how to make your visit extra special depending on your interests and preferences.

A guide to Vietnam & Cambodia riverboat tours

Southeast Asia specialist Tom explains why traveling along the Mekong River is an ideal way to visit Vietnam and Cambodia in a single trip. Giving you time to take in floating villages and markets, the temples of Angkor, as well as Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh.

Our top 9 experiences in Vietnam

A frequent visitor to the region, Southeast Asia specialist Will selects his top nine experiences from his travels across Vietnam. In a whistle-stop look across the country, picks include Ho Chi Minh City by Vespa, Mai Chau’s rice paddies and a secluded beach escape.

Southeast Asia: our responsible approach

Helping you journey responsibly is a core part of our ethos. Read more about how we do this across Southeast Asia, from plastic reduction and community support, to animal welfare and marine conservation.

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Meaningful journeys, crafted by award-winning travel specialists.

Unfollow the herd

At the heart of Selective Asia, you’ll find a passion for meaningful travel — the kind that stops you in your tracks and stirs your soul. We help you find the unspoilt with our journeys across Asia, each thoughtfully curated and designed by a small team of passionate experts.

Our values are clear and our purpose is set. We are no ordinary travel company.

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The Selective Difference

It's never been more important to entrust your holiday to a travel operator with extensive logistical experience and dependable local teams. We've always set a very high bar for our selection of recommended hotels, and our guides have always been skilled at adapting to your needs and wishes. Now, our meticulous attention to detail and well-honed approach to support private travel are the perfect fit for travellers keen to set foot on fresh paths through Asia's extraordinary landscape. And you can book with confidence thanks to our flexible terms and financial security .

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Fully protected flexible bookings

We want to believe that all our trips will go ahead without any hiccups, however in the event that things have to change, and your planned departure doesn't go to plan, be reassured that you’re in experienced hands. Our team is very adept at handling complex changes, and our Flexi Booking promise delivers flexibility and financial clarity.

The perfect fit?

We love to talk travel, whether for the first time or with a returning client in search of their next adventure. We specialise in creating bespoke travel for the curious traveller and it’s a process that we prefer not to rush - after all, this is how we deliver value. We particularly enjoy working with clients who enjoy the process, from the planning through to the delivery and the unfortunate need to return home. We love to get to know you (and you us), learning about your past travel successes and less favourable memories, your hobbies and interests - helping us better imagine the little touches that will make this next trip your best yet.

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Asia Reviews & Ratings

Christopher

When I was researching potential tours of Southeast Asia, I was looking for Thailand (Bangkok and Chiang Mai specifically) and Cambodia (Siem Reap/Angkor Wat specifically)

When I was researching potential tours of Southeast Asia, I was looking for Thailand (Bangkok and Chiang Mai specifically) and Cambodia (Siem Reap/Angkor Wat specifi...

The experience was memorable

The experience was memorable. Never before have I wanted to book another tour so quickly and travel again with the group. I believe this trip has created a monster a...

SE ASia is a culture shock if most of your travel has been in N

SE ASia is a culture shock if most of your travel has been in N.A. Or Europe. It was one new experience after another. We were not that prepared for such large citie...

This trip was unforgettable for me

This trip was unforgettable for me. It really opened my eyes to the history of these countries and the beautiful resilient people who live there. I love that the G/N...

My first time in Southasia, loved it

My first time in Southasia, loved it. Enjoyed listening to the loc...

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South East Asia Tours & Vacations

Frenetic yet tranquil, modern yet traditional, sweet yet spicy – South East Asia is the best of everything wrapped up in one tidy package.

A place where natural beauty, sleepless cities, taste-bud-tingling cuisine and wondrous wildlife collide. It’s here, amongst this cluster of captivating countries, that you can honestly say there’s something for everyone. From devouring banh mi at a street food stall in Hanoi to cycling through the green hills of Ubud . Interacting with the local Batak tribe living on Palawan to visiting the world’s first elephant hospital in Chiang Mai . We dare you to discover South East Asia and be able to leave not already craving more. 

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Creative Cities: Hanoi

Travel globally and think locally with Intrepid leader San Tao

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South east asia travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

What countries are a part of South East Asia?

The region of South East Asia encompasses the following countries:

Philippines

Timor-Leste

Do I need a visa to travel to South East Asia?

Whether you need a visa to travel to South East Asia depends on what country you're a national of and which country you travel to.

Generally, passport holders from the United States, Canada, New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom don't need visas to travel around South East Asia, but visa requirements will vary from country to country.

For example, citizens from the previously mentioned countries will need a visa to travel to Vietnam, however, they won't require a visa for Thailand. 

If you're unsure of the visa requirements of the country you're traveling to, it's best to check on government-run websites or at your nearest embassy or consulate. 

What is the internet access like in South East Asia?

The internet access in South East Asia can vary from country to country and between different regions in that country.

Most hotel chains or other accommodation options in major cities will have wi-fi, so it'll be easy to connect to the internet.

B uying an international SIM card with a local provider is recommended if you'd rather have no restrictions (and no exorbitant data roaming fees). This still doesn't mean you're guaranteed to have access to the internet though as the signal is often limited or unreliable in rural areas in countries such as Laos, Timor-Leste and Myanmar. 

What are the toilets like in South East Asia?

The toilet facilities in South East Asia differ depending on which country you're in and what region of that country you're in.

Most major cities have westernized toilet facilities in places such as restaurants and hotels, but the further from urban areas you are, the more likely you'll find squat toilets, so set your expectations accordingly.

Toilet paper is also a rare find unless you're in major cities or popular tourist areas, so it's best to always pack your own in preparation. 

Can I drink the water in South East Asia?

There aren't many countries in South East Asia where the tap water is recommended for drinking, especially in Laos and Cambodia.

To avoid getting sick, buy bottled water or use filtered water to brush your teeth.

You should also be mindful when showering, ask for drinks with no ice in them and peel all fruit before you eat them.

While Malaysia is considered to have the safest drinking water, it still has a different mineral content than your stomach might be used to so it's best to stick to filtered or bottled water where possible. 

When is the best time to visit South East Asia?

The best time to travel to South East Asia is between November and February when the weather is relatively dry, humidity levels are low and temperatures are warm but not uncomfortable.

However, this is considered to be 'peak season' so expect large crowds at popular tourist destinations and increased accommodation prices in major cities.

If you want to avoid all of that, try traveling during the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November.

If you can, avoid traveling from June to August as this is South East Asia's rainy, cyclone season. 

Is tipping common in South East Asia?

While it might not be as prevalent as it is in the US, tipping is still part of the culture in most South East Asian countries.

H ow much you tip and in what scenarios tipping is expected will differ depending on the country you travel in.

For example, tipping isn't expected or required in Malaysia and Singapore (and can even be considered rude), but countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia are starting to accept tipping culture. 

What currency will I need in South East Asia?

The currency you need when traveling in South East Asia depends on which countries you'll be visiting, with each country having its own currency.

Here is a list of countries with their currencies:

• Vietnam - Vietnamese Dong (VND)
• Indonesia - Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
• Singapore - Singapore Dollar (SGD) 
• Cambodia - Cambodian Riel (KHR)
• Malaysia - Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) 
• Thailand - Thai Baht (THB)
• Philippines - Philippine Peso (PHP)
• Myanmar - Myanmar Kyat (MMK)
• Timor-Leste - United States Dollars (USD)
• Laos - Lao Kip (LAK)  
• Brunei - Brunei Dollar (BND)

Do I need to bring cash with me to South East Asia?

It's worth bringing cash with you if you travel around South East Asia, as paying with cash is still very prevalent in most countries.

Countries like Vietnam and Thailand are big on markets and hawker hall type cafeterias, so having cash is usually the easiest way to buy things and makes bargaining for items more accessible.  

Is South East Asia safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Most of the countries in South East Asia have a thriving LGBTQIA+ scene, especially Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia.

Discretion is still advised for travelers of the LGBTQIA+ community when it comes to public displays of affection, particularly if you're traveling away from the larger cities to more rural areas where acceptance of same-sex relationships may not be as common. 

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

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Southeast Asia Travel Agents & Reviews

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Customers rate Zicasso's travel referral service  5  on a scale of 1 to 5 based on  1529  reviews on Trustpilot

We match you with top tour companies that specialize in the trip you want,  whether it's a customized private tour or a group tour.

Our Southeast Asia travel agents design extraordinary bespoke journeys across this dynamic region, from bustling capitals to serene tropical hideaways. Describing your preferred travel style, personal interests, and ideal pace, our travel agencies in Southeast Asia leverage insider connections to curate a tailored, luxury experience that surpasses your highest expectations. With our Southeast Asia travel agencies personally overseeing each hand-picked detail with care and regional expertise, your adventure unfolds seamlessly, authentically, and filled with wonder.

Discover our Southeast Asia travel agents, the top 10% of local specialists

Our Southeast Asia travel agents design extraordinary bespoke journeys across this dynamic region, from bustling capitals to serene tropical hideaways.

Describing your preferred travel style, personal interests, and ideal pace, our travel agencies in Southeast Asia leverage insider connections to curate a tailored, luxury experience that surpasses your highest expectations.

With our Southeast Asia travel agencies personally overseeing each hand-picked detail with care and regional expertise, your adventure unfolds seamlessly, authentically, and filled with wonder.

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Zicasso in the News

Vinh's Travel Agency

 Based on  121  reviews

Destinations:

Verified review.

The overall trip was great because the country was lovely and those in the group enjoyed each other. We had many different experiences and felt like Zicasso’s travel company tried their best. Their best was a little baffling because there were a few times when they did not make the correct judgment call. Instead of rectifying the issue, they just insisted they were right. The customer service for the price we paid was not commensurate. For example, at one point they had us in a small children's school bus with suitcases surrounding us and it wasn't until some folks strongly expressed their displeasure that the company did anything about it. We had 22 folks by the end and the company provided only one guide, which was a big mistake. As a result, we didn't get a lot of historical information about the sites. There were too many people for one person to manage well and some excursions were missed because of this. They corrected this for us in Cambodia and it made a huge difference to our experience, but we were only there for a couple of days.

Jeremiah's Travel Agency

 Based on  97  reviews

The trip exceeded expectations, especially as it was my first to Asia. When I first contacted Zicasso's travel agent, he responded immediately and spent time listening to my thoughts regarding the trip. He developed an itinerary based on our conversation. After several back-and-forth e-mails and calls, a final itinerary was developed. It provided the flexibility required and met all of my needs. Our agent was most helpful in facilitating all of the arrangements, including hotels, flights within Thailand and Cambodia, and finding guides and drivers. The guides across the board were knowledgeable, responsive to my needs, cordial, and helpful. They accommodated any changes I requested, smiling the whole time. The entire team was responsive through WhatsApp whenever a need arose during the trip. I highly recommend our travel agency.

Lenny's Travel Agency

 Based on  183  reviews

Zicasso’s was an exceptional travel company. Communication with the owner and team was timely, accurate, and professional. It felt like we had an expert friend looking out for us every step of the way. They could not have been more responsive and dependable. Their support was constant during and before the trip, with reminders, explanations, and immediate answers. The transfers, guides, and drivers arranged by the company were always on time and demonstrated the same level of courtesy, expertise, knowledge, and friendliness, making our trip flawless. The owner of the company helped us plan a two-week trip with tremendous diversity, letting us learn, have fun, and truly experience the richness of Thailand and its beautiful people. The plan was executed with perfection. I give them my highest recommendation.

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Suzie's Travel Agency

 Based on  157  reviews

Our family of four traveled to Japan, visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, and the Hakone area. The Zicasso travel agency put together great properties. We loved the locations of each and their amenities. We had excellent seats on the bullet train. Our driver and tour guide in Kyoto were outstanding! We felt there was definitely a communication misstep with our plans for Tokyo however. Our driver/guide was very lovely, but not very definitive on what we were doing each day. We felt we had communicated with the driver and the travel company as to what we wanted to do, but for example, when we went to do our food tour of Tokyo, it was paired with a visit to the fish market. We asked if the food tour was after the market, to which our guide said yes. However, about two hours into the fish market we realized that was his idea of the food tour. There was no specific plan of what we were to try and no explanation of the items. Instead, we walked around and bought a few things we wanted to try. We shared everything as we were saving room for the food tour that really never happened. It was frustrating as we felt our guide was more of a driver and less of a guide. Communication was definitely a factor, which is why we hired the travel agency.

Kevin's Travel Agency

 Based on  7  reviews

My husband and I booked our honeymoon in Thailand with Zicasso's travel agency. We worked with our travel agent to plan it and the itinerary was incredible! I barely had to do anything. He booked all of our activities, hotels, and transfers. Transportation: We went to four locations (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, and Krabi) and each time we traveled internally, a guide would drop us off and pick us up. Truly door-to-door service! We also had a private guide and driver for each of our planned activities. Our domestic travel was so incredibly easy and we were super lucky to have all of them be on time and seamless! Our tour operator monitored all the flights and before our honeymoon, made sure to update a couple whose times had changed to ensure we got to our destinations with enough time. Activities: We wanted our honeymoon to be equal parts adventure and relaxation. We spent the first half of our trip in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. We toured temples, did a street food tour, took a day trip to a floating market, spent a day learning to cook with a local family, spent a day with rescue elephants, and visited a gorgeous national park, to name a few things. All were private tours with private guides! A shout-out to our amazing guides in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. We then spent intentionally unstructured time at the beaches of Koh Samui and Krabi (I’d recommend Krabi over Koh Samui (I was the one who added Koh Samui to the itinerary, but should have listened to our travel agent!). Krabi was so perfect for a honeymoon. Accommodations: All were five stars and beautiful! We had cute honeymoon welcome gifts everywhere we went. In summary, it was so worth working with our travel team to plan a stress-free honeymoon. We had an incredible time and couldn’t have loved it more!

Allison's Travel Agency

 Based on  36  reviews

Zicasso's travel company was great to work with! I never had to worry about transportation from airports or to and from excursions. The tour guides they connected me with were amazing and hospitable. I also never had any trouble with ticketing during any of my excursions. Everything was well planned out and taken care of, which relieved me of a lot of stress and anxiety.

Michael's Travel Agency

 Based on  325  reviews

Overall, I was very happy with the entire trip. It was truly the trip of a lifetime. The planning by Zicasso's travel company was thorough and easy. The app to keep track of the itinerary and flights was great. The hotels chosen were top-notch and in great locations in each city. We loved the personal service. The guides were attentive, knowledgeable, and professional. We would do it again for sure. There were some minor discrepancies between the itinerary sent to me and the itinerary followed by the guides. Had we not been aware and vocal, we would have missed one of the best temples. The first night in Chiang Rai was supposed to include dinner, but did not. The tour of Koh Pha Ngan was not worth the time. The waterfall was disappointing at the time we visited and viewing monkeys picking coconuts did not happen. The guide said this had been stopped due to the monkeys being aggressive and unpredictable. We did not stop at the rubber tree farm and never made it to the secret beach.

John's Travel Agency

 Based on  167  reviews

This was a very memorable trip and we enjoyed ourselves from beginning to end. This was our first trip to Southeast Asia as a family of four and each of our Zicasso guides, in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, was kind, thoughtful, knowledgeable, extremely helpful, and a pleasure to spend time with. When we wanted to make adjustments to the schedule, they were accommodating and lovely. When our 25-year-old fell ill in Phuket, our guide made sure to stop by a pharmacy to help us get medicine. When my husband was unwell with a stomach ailment on our first day in Bangkok, our guide advised him to eat yogurt, which was a tremendous help. Our guide was very helpful in advising on the proper protocol in the temples and in interacting with the people in Hmong village. Overall, I think we were well matched with our guides and they made our trip so much more enjoyable.

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South East Asia Tour Companies

Looking for an unforgettable South East Asia tour? Book a fully-organized trip with the best tour companies in South East Asia and let the tour operator take care of everything for you. Check out the tour details and read 163206 reviews from our customers to help you choose the perfect tour for you.

List of South East Asia travel companies & tour operators with 163206 reviews

Realistic Asia

• Excellent - 871 reviews for South East Asia tours

Our days in Vietnam and Cambodia were amazing! All the tours within these 2 countries were incredible and very enjoyable, Our tour guides in Vietnam, Larry, Felix and Anthony spoke English very well and were very helpful in solving any issues we had. Halong Bay and Lan Ha bay was a site to behold. Kayaking, swimming, fishing , and kareoke were very enjoyable while on the La Pandora cruise. The cooking lesson needs to be improved and not be given by the tour guide. Very disappointing that Taichi was cancelled. The Bavi Eco tour was excellent and cooking lesson with Mrs Chin was fun and well worth it. The cycling component in of the tours were very enjoyable. Cambodia was another unforgettable experience. We were on a private tour with just my friend and I and we couldn't ask for a better guide in Mr, Sok Vanna (we called him Vanna as he explained this to us). He was very knowledgeable about the sites we visited and he was willing to make changes to our schedule as we requested. He is a very humble guy and decent. I was not impressed with Thailand as we only had half a day to tour a temple and we were left on our own device the next day to entertain ourselves. I didn't enjoy being in Bangkok as it was full of high rises. Being out of the city would have been a better option. Regarding our guide, he is a very intelligent man but he was not a good fit for us. His mastery of the English language could have been better. We found that we had to ask questions instead

It was amazing, top organizing. the tour guides were all amazing

G Adventures

• Excellent - 19,036 reviews for South East Asia tours

This trip gives a well paced overview of central North Thailand. G Adventure organized the trip well and their travel manager Sek was amazing.

Best trip I have ever had, had the best time in a spectacular country and the best ceo I could ever ask for

CroisiEurope River Cruises

• Excellent - 308 reviews for South East Asia tours

Mr chien Nguyen was our guide on the Mekong cruise on the indochine from hochi min city to cambodia, to luang starting on 2/10/23. Knowledgeable Fluent in English Friendly And concerned about our safety always. He was a 5* guide - the best in this trip

We travelled CroisiEurope from Hanoi (Halong Bay) to Ho Chi Min then crusing the Mekong River to Siam Reap. We have done several river and ocean cruises and this was up there with the best! Great food, great boat and facilities, great tours with flexibility. We were impressed that at each stop we had local tour guides, one each for english, spanish and french speaking guests. All the staff, guides and directors were great and happy to help with any issues. How good is a Halong Bay sunset?! Would definitely recommend CroisiEurope and TourRadar - the online support tool for TourRadar means that you get a response to the smallest of queries within 24 hours. We'll be back.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tou…

• Excellent - 35 reviews for South East Asia tours

Our voyage on Scenic Spirit exceeded our expectations. It was an amazing experience!

Absolutely top notch all the way. Totally exceeded our expectations!

Intrepid Travel

• Excellent - 11,667 reviews for South East Asia tours

I would not recommend this trip to anyone. Yes, we knew before we purchased the tour, from Itinerary, that for 15 days duration of this tour, there will be only 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches and no dinner served, but we did not know that, another Intrepid "invention" called, "public bus" transportation (3x) will be in practice very long and there will be very hard to find a place to eat, especially breakfast next day!!! In fact, your organization included 5 full days with no meals!!! It was 2 days in Bangkok and one day in Khao Sok, Kuala Lumpur and Melaka. In Kuala Lumpur for example we had to wander 45 minutes thru the neighborhood of our hotel in order to find a decent place to have a breakfast. In another day, from Melaka to Singapore, our guide told us, the night before, that because of very early schedule for the public bus we have to skip our breakfast which was awaiting at the hotel next morning. After our protest our guide "arranged" early breakfast but the service room was not ready with cold coffee and the toaster oven not working! All three "public bus" transportation, in practice, were very long and exhaustive, due to traffic or long time spent on border crossing, and frustrating to us due to a lack of even basic food not available on food stands on the route. In addition, the one day trip to Baan Mod Tanoy village turned to be another small disaster. The village huts were literally sitting in the middle of huge garbage dump where we supposed to clean the beach …We did not take any cleaning action there for obvious reasons. Our guide seamed to be quite often frustrated with our basic, in reality, demands regarding meals and, paid by Intrepid, afternoon activities which quite often did not exist! The most common guide's message to us could be freely translated, in short, as: "it is what it is and be happy with what you have". In overall, I doubt I will go with, or suggest to my friends to book a trip with, Intrepid in any time soon!!!

The trip has a good itinerary in Thailand but the part in Malaysia has very bad logistics. Hotels in Thailand were adequate, except one in Ao Nang (Ibis, rather dirty with very poorly designed rooms). Visit to the Baan Mod Tanoy village on the last day in Thailand was something that needs to change. Walk thru the village was maybe educational but village itself was littered with garbage everywhere – in front of houses and both side of the streets. By the look of discarded pop cans, candy and chips wrappers it wasn’t a poor village. We were told we have to participate in program (apparently going for three years) where tourists walk on a beach and pick up garbage. It was noon, 34C and one of us was 83 years old. We refused, suggesting that based on the garbage littering the village the program obviously doesn’t work. As for Malaysia – we visited three cities and due to the fact that we drove from one city to the other on a highway with palm tree forests on both sides we really didn’t see much of the countryside. We were transported by public transport and that was very unpleasant and time wasting. The worst was trip from Penang to Kuala Lumpur that took from 8 am (starting from hotel with so horrible breakfast that it wasn’t included, and local bars didn’t open until 8 am (??) to 4:45 pm with no break for lunch. It was: van to transit station, bus with one bathroom break, van to the hotel. We wasted the whole day with nothing but palm trees to see. Why didn’t we fly?? The day before last we left our hotel at 6:30 am (no chance for breakfast, after complaining we got some cold coffee and toast). Again transferring – van, public bus, and this time Grab/Uber in Singapore that originally were going to order and pay for ourselves! The guide eventually gave us Singapore dollars and called taxis, but it took a long time to sort out. This should be organized better. We were mostly older group that needs to take medication in the morning with food and those few days in Malaysia made it very difficult. Also transferring our luggage in and out of van/bus/van was hard for some. Not to mention that at time of post Covid and bird flu in Asia putting us three times on public bus was not very safe. I do not recommend this trip, itinerary is deceiving. Before this trip we took one thru Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand with GAdventures and we didn’t have those kind of problems with transportation and meals.

Emerald Cruises

• Excellent - 24 reviews for South East Asia tours

Excellent. We enjoyed the tour very much.

Wonderful ship and staff. Excellent ground accommodations in Siam Reap and Hi Chi Min City. Highly recommend the additional time in Halong Bay. The tour provided wonderful insights into Vietnam and Cambodia. The tour guides were very helpful but the quality of the 4 guides were not consistent.

Bali Bucket List Tours

• Excellent - 383 reviews for South East Asia tours

Die 10 Tage auf Bali sind super schnell vergangen! Wir hatten eine tolle Gruppe, super nette Tourguides und es wurde an alles gedacht (inklusive Fahrten vom und zum Flughafen). Die vielen Aktivitäten vom Kochkurs bis hin zum Schnorcheln und Surfen haben unglaublich viel Spaß gemacht und auch alle Unterkünfte waren sehr gut! Ich bin froh, dass ich die Bali Bucket List Tour gemacht habe und kann sie auf jeden Fall weiterempfehlen.

I booked this for my birthday and I was not disappointed at all! This is a great tour and the way that it is set up was perfect. The only thing I would have done differently would have been to book their boutique tour if the tour dates would have aligned with my schedule. Not that there was anything wrong with this one, I’m just bougie 🤷🏾‍♀️. If you’re on the fence, book it. If you have the funds book the same companies boutique tour 😊

Wanderlands Travel

• Excellent - 3,915 reviews for South East Asia tours

The tour was amazing! I loved the vibe of the tour. Especially Stacia?, the tour leader was perfect for organizing the group. We went to so many places and we all had an amazing time. I would definitely recommend the tour if you want to travel Indonesia and want to get a guided tour

Stacia Organized the Tour very well, Tell us every day the program , so we Know what to do and what to bring with . She is a very lovely and enteraining groupleader .

Avalon Waterways

• Excellent - 225 reviews for South East Asia tours

Very well Organized tour I thoroughly enjoyed it

The boat was beautiful, the staff and director couldn’t have been more helpful and accommodating. We had the trip of a lifetime learning so much history of Vietnam and Cambodia and meeting the people. The food was delicious. Exceeded our expectations

INTRO Travel

• Excellent - 14,674 reviews for South East Asia tours

I did the 18 day Thai Intro tour and it was worth every penny. We had the most amazing group leader named Dan who made the trip an unforgettable experience. He was so knowledgeable about Thailand and the culture. He also made sure everyone was well looked after and made it his priority to ensure everyone was having a good time. I could not recommend this tour more. So much crammed into 18 days. An experience that will be with you for life. Highly recommend!

I've just finished Thai Intro 18 days and it truly was the trip on my lifetime. The organization and all the fun and exciting activities were fantastic. Such a great value for money. Our group leader Dan W. was the best person we could have asked for to show us the beauty and culture of this incredible country. His knowledge (I just loved all the facts he told us!), kindness and passion was what really made the whole trip even more special- such an asset to this company. Not to forget Matt who joined us along the way and was such a positive and fun addition to our already great group. They helped me to face and overcome my fears with such an ease and confidence, and for that, I will be forever grateful to both of them. Could not recommend enough.

Bravo Indochina Tours

• Excellent - 608 reviews for South East Asia tours

Lots of history and learning about temples. It was a good tour

We saw so much in these 21 days. The hotels were all good. The communication from the office was excellent and when we did have a minor issue it was remedied immediately. We took 5 flights on this tour and all our transfers were punctual and well organized. We cannot fault the organization of Bravo Indochina Tours. Most of the local guides were excellent but there were one or two who did not have a good enough grasp of the English language to do a tour in English. The included meals were excellent, and all activities were organized extremely well. We would highly recommend Bravo Indochina Tours and a big shout out to Ha Nguyen who was always there for us. Thank you for making this a very special trip for us.

Uniworld Boutique River Cru…

• Excellent - 79 reviews for South East Asia tours

This was a magical and life changing experience. We were initially nervous about traveling abroad through Southeast Asia and were pleasantly surprised by the five star experience. The ship is beautiful. We felt safe the entire time. The ships staff was incredibly present and available for all of our needs and more. I wish I could recommend the cruise in a higher way but I guess 5 stars is all that we are allotted. :)

This is the best way to see Vietnam and Cambodia. We learned so much about this amazing culture and got to see so many beautiful places. The Uniworld staff did an amazing job at making us feel comfortably and showing us the cool places to go that we would have not known to see otherwise!

One Life Adventures

• Excellent - 7,508 reviews for South East Asia tours

The tour was fantastic, we did all the main touristy things, but also the back road stuff & a couple unique inclusions which would be hard to find outside of one life.

Had a really great trip. The island hopping days were perfect and Mike, our tour guide, is awesome!

AmaWaterways

• Excellent - 26 reviews for South East Asia tours

Great river cruise for a seasoned traveler. Well paced. Lots to see staff is friendly and responsive. Cruise director is a dynamo. Get to see locals living life in Their villages and markets.

While I felt like the crew, tour guides, and boat were all wonderful, there are a few things I do feel fell short. A number of the outings felt redundant, making it somewhat difficult to experience the uniqueness of the locations. Also, I wish we had access to food outside of the designated eating times. While there were cookies and a few similar treats available, I would have appreciated being able to craft my day as I saw fit, rather than operating on a schedule at all times. Since i was on vacation, being able to sleep in a day or two, would have aided my need to rest, rejuvenate, and take things easy. And lastly, which might is the most important, as a young(er) African American solo traveler, I was often reminded of my “differentness”, something I rarely feel in my everyday life. There were numerous remarks from passengers about the boat probably not having “African American music”, or passengers telling a friend I made to be wary of me, being that I was the only black person on the ship, as well as a few more hurtful comments. Though I tried to brush them off, I must say it did color my experience. I don’t know how your team would even go about preventing that, or making it a more diverse experience for future travelers, but I thought it best I be honest. Once more, the accommodations and staff were stellar, and for that, I’m thankful.

• Excellent - 15,343 reviews for South East Asia tours

The tour guide were all very helpful, good and go out of their way to make our journey fun n amazing. I will book all my trips n recommend to all my friends your companies excellent service. Iam very please to the iteniraries n the hotel we stayed in. Thank u very much to make my holiday more enjoyable 😉

This was my first trip with Tru Travels and first ever group tour in general and I had the best time! Can’t thank Mickey enough for making sure we were all happy, going above and beyond to provide all the information we needed and making sure we had the time of our lives even through the lows. You can tell he really loves his job and is somehow always happy! I loved the combination of doing the north and south of Thailand, there was always a good balance of having lots of activities to do and things to see as well being able to wind down and relax. I’ll never forget my time in Thailand and all the amazing people I got to meet! Would 100% book another tour with Tru Travels.

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This is the happiest country in Asia, according to the World Happiness Report

Singapore is the happiest country in Asia for the second year in a row, according to the 2024 World Happiness Report released Wednesday.

The city-state ranked 30 out of the 143 places surveyed for the study.

Topping the list this year is Finland, followed closely by Denmark and Iceland.

The World Happiness Report is a joint effort from some of the world's leading researchers and wellbeing scientists. The happiness ranking in this study is supported by data from the Gallup World Poll which measures individuals' average life evaluations, taken over three years from 2021 to 2023.

The top 10 happiness rankings in Asia:

• South Korea
• Philippines

Experts also analyzed data in six key factors: GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, social support, freedom, generosity and perception of corruption. Their research into these areas provided deeper insight and potential explanations for the subjective quality of life ratings people gave.

"These factors help to explain the differences across nations, while the rankings themselves are based only on the answers people give when asked to rate their own lives," according to a statement by the World Happiness Report.

The data gathered for the six factors came from organizations like the World Bank , the World Health Organization and the Gallup World Poll.

"Singapore did very well in terms of GDP per capita, one of the highest ranking in our dataset," Shun Wang, co-author and editor of the 2024 World Happiness Report told CNBC Make It.

Singapore is also very good in terms of its perception of corruption... lowest among all countries in our data. Shun Wang Co-author and editor, 2024 World Happiness Report

"That means Singapore's government is really clean and their people really have a very low perception of corruption ... even lower, you know, than Denmark or Norway," Wang added.

Denmark and Norway ranked 2nd and 7th, respectively, on this year's report.

Additionally, Singapore "does particularly well on generating healthy life expectancy, so long lives and healthy lives," according to Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, Director of the Wellbeing Research Centre at Oxford University and editor of the 2024 World Happiness Report.

Despite this, Singapore ranks lower in terms of its perceived social support, freedom to make life choices, and generosity.

"Singapore is punching below its weight," said De Neve. "Given all the objective indicators about Singapore, you'd expect Singapore to be in the top 20 of the World Happiness Report."

"I would love to challenge the Singaporean government and the people of Singapore to find ways to leverage the extraordinary city-state that they've created into ways of improving quality of life as people experience it," De Neve said.

In response to CNBC's request for comment, Singapore's government pointed to its latest  Budget statement , highlighting initiatives "aimed at supporting and uplifting Singaporeans from a wide spectrum of our society – from individuals to households and businesses — both in the immediate term and the future."

The measures include policies aimed at  reducing wage gaps and creating a stronger culture of  giving , said a statement from the Prime Minister's Office.

Myanmar, Cambodia, India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are among Asia's least happy countries, according to the report.

India, the world's most populous nation, came in at 126th out of 143 places surveyed.

Want to make extra money outside of your day job?  Sign up for  CNBC's new online course How to Earn Passive Income Online  to learn about common passive income streams, tips to get started and real-life success stories. Register today and save 50% with discount code EARLYBIRD.

Plus,  sign up for CNBC Make It's newsletter  to get tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life.

— This story has been updated to include the response of Singapore's government.

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Follow our news, recent searches, ex-insurance agent suing prudential for wrongful termination after working there for 19 years, advertisement.

The man claims that he was terminated because of his "whistleblowing acts" outing Prudential to MAS for alleged malpractice in its business.

View of the Prudential building at Scotts Road in Singapore. (Image: Google Street View)

This audio is AI-generated.

SINGAPORE: A veteran insurance agent who was an agency leader within his company's network of agents is suing his former employer, Prudential Assurance Co Singapore, for wrongful termination.

See Jen Sen worked for Prudential for 19 years before his agency agreement was terminated in March 2022.

Mr See alleges that the termination came about because he blew the whistle on Prudential's alleged malpractice in its business to the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).

Mr See is suing Prudential for wrongful termination, unjust enrichment and a claim under the Unfair Contract Terms Act.

Prudential applied to strike out Mr See's claims entirely and succeeded partially - an assistant registrar on the case struck out two of the claims, leaving the wrongful termination claim.

Mr See then appealed against the striking out and succeeded in a judgment made available on Thursday (Mar 21). This means he will be allowed to pursue all three claims against Prudential at trial.

He is represented by Mr Ragbir Singh Ram Singh Bajwa from Bajwa & Co, while Prudential is represented by Ms Joleen Wong Ying from JWS Asia Law.

THE WHISTLEBLOWING INQUIRY

According to the judgment, Mr See was the subject of an inquiry by a compliance committee set up by Prudential before his termination.

He was suspected of sending complaints under various pen names to MAS and the chief executive officer of Prudential, accusing Prudential of malpractice.

This refers particularly to the launching of allegedly misleading advertisements of insurance products that contravened MAS guidelines.

Mr See did not deny that he was responsible for these complaints, but his counsel referred to them as the whistleblowing acts.

Mr See alleged that there was a breach of contract when his agency agreement was wrongfully terminated.

The termination was in fact grounded in his whistleblowing acts, which is not a legitimate reason to terminate his contract, Mr See alleged.

He also alleged that Prudential had been "unjustly enriched" by the financial benefits it retained from terminating his agreement.

This refers to bonus payments Mr See was entitled to under an incentive scheme called the "Agency Leader Long-Term Incentive Scheme" and bonus commissions under the "Sell-Out scheme".

The conditions for receiving these bonus payments and commissions are set out in documents circulated to the agents, and form the basis of Mr See's third claim - that some conditions breach the Unfair Contract Terms Act.

Prudential's lawyers, on the other hand, say that the termination was lawfully made and that Mr See was given notice of his termination.

Justice Choo Han Teck explained in his judgment that it is best "not to fetter" the hands of the trial judge, who will have to hear the claim for wrongful termination "in any event".

"In order to do justice in full, he must be allowed to decide what reliefs or remedies a claimant seeks," said Justice Choo, adding that the issues ought to be ventilated as part of the full narrative at trial.

The trial will take place at a later date.

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Travel agent for 3 week trip to Japan - Japan Forum

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Travel agent for 3 week trip to Japan

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8 replies to this topic

https://www.insidejapantours.com/us/

https://japancustomtours.co.nz/

Both are popular in this forum.

Was on my phone last night, and I'm not a great thumb typist. More info:

You can look on their website for itinerary ideas, as they have many "themed" group tours - food, culture, hiking, anime, etc, and then work with them to draft a custom itinerary for you with as much or as little scheduled activities that you want. We did quite a few food-centered tours, and had a city guide in 3 locations, but traveled/navigated the country on our own using reservations on the trains that Inside Japan made for us. We had several days without any official plans as well, which let us decide last minute what we wanted to do.

The lodging they selected was excellent, and also really "made" the trip. Good locations and amenities. The highlight for me was our stay in Takayama in a 100 yo renovated traditional house, just a block from the old historic district.

What kind of hotels are you looking for? How about Kaminarimon Ryokan?

We did not go to Kyoto . (My husband and I lived in Japan 30 years ago and we had gone then. I wanted to see a different part of the country and so we went to Kanazawa and Takayama , along with Tokyo and Hiroshima . It was a whirlwind 10 day trip for my son's school break.)

Our Takayama house was perfect, and included breakfast and dinner delivered to the house.

Our Kanazawa hotel was a mid-range hipster sort of place that appealed to our kids, and was very close to the main market and bus lines. We were in a Hilton in Hiroshima. Very nice, great views of the city, easy to catch the bus or walk.

I found them very responsive when we told them what we wanted, so I wouldn't hesitate to ask for something different. Hopefully that works for you. I'm generally the family trip planner, but we had 6 people, a limited amount of time, and I just didn't want to put the work in to figure all the details out.

One nice bonus was that we had a city guide our first day in Tokyo, and when he arrived at the hotel, he said his first order of business was taking us to the JR office to get all our reservations for the trains. So glad he did, as it would have been much harder on our own.

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He biked from Spain to Singapore. The kindness of strangers kept him going.

Andrew mortensen’s cycling trip through europe and asia represented the last leg of a worldwide ride.

“Let’s see if we can get this light,” Andrew Mortensen said as he cycled toward Eastern Avenue, the northeast border of Washington and Maryland.

Mortensen had recently completed a 10,538-mile bike journey from Spain to Singapore — and, by his estimate, the last section of a ride around the world that began four years ago. Yet he was enthusiastic about the unremarkable crossing: “No way! This is a new state biking for me.”

There were no waits (he made the light) or passport checks on that sunny Saturday in February. It was a stark contrast to the many questions, and occasional delays, Mortensen faced at some of the 26 national borders he crossed on his ride from Europe to Asia. Many people picked up cycling to provide some relief from pandemic lockdowns. But Mortensen, feeling caged, took his hobby to an extreme.

In August 2020, he began a bike journey that eventually touched four continents. First, he rode east across the width of the United States, then south as far as roads can take you in South America and, finally, across the Eurasian landmass.

According to the popular fitness-tracking app Strava, he typically logged 100-plus miles in the saddle per day, propelled by a deep-rooted curiosity to explore. He had a long-held goal to pedal around the world, but that wasn’t the source of his motivation.

“It’s still crazy to me to think about,” he said in an interview during the bike ride to Maryland. “At no point was it me riding around the world — it was ‘Tomorrow I’m going to go to wherever, and cross the border into India.’ Only in retrospect does it really dawn on you.”

The generally accepted distance necessary for a round-the-world ride is 18,000 miles. Including his earlier rides in the Americas, Mortensen had logged more than 27,000.

And Mortensen accomplished this rare feat with an extra wrinkle: As an openly gay cyclist, he wasn’t sure how he’d be received in hostile parts of the world. He was “pretty freaked out” when he started. But the people he met consistently proved him wrong with their warmth and hospitality.

From Washington state to Singapore

The 32-year-old Austin resident’s transcontinental ride was the last leg in a pandemic-spanning tour that began on a cold beach in Neah Bay, Wash. After taking a voluntary exit package from his job at United Airlines and feeling, as he put it in a 2022 TEDx Talk , that his “wings were clipped,” Mortensen decided to bike across America.

The ride east, which he completed in Yorktown, Va., in October 2020, was followed shortly thereafter by one south. First to Key West, Fla., and from there to Texas and then down to the literal end of the road on Chile’s Route 7 . He completed the Pan-American portion of his trip around Villa O’Higgins in April 2021 after some 16,912 miles in the saddle.

But Mortensen was not done. After a break for business school at the University of Texas at Austin, he resumed his journey last July in Pamplona, Spain, with a goal of making it to Croatia.

Six months later, after cycling beyond Europe into the likes of Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, China, Pakistan and Nepal, his parents set up a warm welcome for him as he rode into Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands resort.

He did take breaks off the bike. He spent a week with his boyfriend after the European portion of his ride. He took two weeks with family for his grandfather’s funeral. And then 10 days off at Christmas for family time — and needed bike repairs.

Rounding the corner into Marina Bay after his last 23.9 miles from Malaysia, Mortensen felt sad that his journey was at an end. But also “hopeful for our world. And happy to give my bum a rest.”

‘Sublime’ landscapes and ‘big hearts’

Cycling through suburban Maryland presents few opportunities for grand vistas or big “cols,” French for mountain pass.

The highest point on Mortensen’s long ride? Circling the base of Kongur Tagh at 13,467 feet in the Pamir Mountains of western China.

He pedaled “over to this little cliff, and there before me is this massive glacier on the left, open plains in front of it — absolutely just stunning,” Mortensen said. “It was like ‘Oh my gosh, this is just sublime.’”

The photos he posted to Strava offer a tour of amazing peaks, expansive vistas , and UNESCO World Heritage sites (His advice: Go to the ones the tours don’t). In France, Mortensen wrote of cycling through “a landscape that builds from stony, arid coast into a crescendo of soaring peaks, wild topography, and lush colors.” Two months later, he rode across the arid Ustyurt Plateau in Uzbekistan on a road with no turns for more than 100 miles.

His photos also show lots of friendly people.

“Borders are pretty subjective,” he said. “Unless there’s a river or mountain range, when they draw a squiggly line between two countries — a lot of the time [people] are still culturally and ethnically the same, and then there’s just a line.”

In a digital diary he kept on Strava, Mortensen noted cycling along one disputed Central Asian border where there was only a fence, and often not even that. At times, he could only guess which country he was in.

“Though the landscape on my route at this point might not be jaw-dropping, the big hearts are,” he wrote on Strava one night in Central Asia. “I talk a lot about these people because it feels so wildly different from the world we see in the news right now. Their continued grace towards this complete stranger is a powerful reminder of that common refrain — there's a lot more that connects us, than divides us.”

Conflict dominated the headlines as Mortensen rode. The war in Ukraine . The Hamas attack on Israel. The Israel-Gaza war . Tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Mortensen kept riding. He recounted the numerous invites to tea he received. Conversations via Google Translate. Crowds eager for a picture with the lone cyclist.

“People were so excited to see me,” he said.

The excitement was also exhausting. A self-described introvert, Mortensen would end his days exhausted from the physical exertion of cycling and the many social interactions along the way. He spent 24 nights of his five months on the road in people’s homes, and the rest in hostels and inns, to “unwind.”

Of the many people he met along the way, one that stood out was a welcoming Uzbek who, after they spent hours together at a border crossing, invited him to his sister’s wedding.

“This guy was just the nicest person ever,” Mortensen said. “He just invited a stranger into one of the most [important] moments for his family just like that, on a lark. It made me realize that maybe I don’t have to worry about all these people around me.”

Food, a necessity for any endurance athlete, was often less than glamorous. Grab-and-go options, cookies, chips , and the occasional ice cream were staples of his days. But when he spied the golden arches on a dusty road outside of Amritsar, India, he wrote of being “overjoyed” to stop for a veggie burger, fries and a shake.

Risks for a gay cyclist

Cycling past Maryland’s Lake Artemesia, Mortensen relayed an experience he had with a clerk at a pit stop in an Eastern Mediterranean country. After chatting for a few moments, the clerk added him on Instagram and, “when that happens, it’s pretty clear right away who I am and what I stand for.”

Mortensen’s Instagram profile includes links to his advocacy for The Trevor Project , a nonprofit that works to prevent suicide among LGBTQ+ youth, as well as other references to his sexuality and advocacy.

Many countries where he rode in the Middle East and Central Asia explicitly outlaw same-sex relations, according to Human Rights Watch . And, even in those where it is not illegal, it is not necessarily welcome. Turkey, for example, does not bar same-sex relations, but its president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, is an outspoken critic of LGBTQ+ people.

The clerk realized Mortensen was gay. Instead of the negative response the cyclist feared, the clerk told him that he, too, was gay.

Such was the disconnect Mortensen found between national politics and laws, and the hospitable treatment he received throughout his journey.

“Someone who sees you outside and it’s cold, or it’s late, or there’s no food for 50 miles, that overrides any beliefs about who you are, where you’re from,” he said.

Mortensen was aware of the risks. LGBTQ+ events have faced violent protests , and individuals have been jailed or killed in some of the countries along his route. He did not publicly advertise he was gay. There was no Pride flag on his bike. He never mentioned his sexuality or boyfriend in his public Strava posts.

French students Jacques de Maistre and Joseph Serdet, who met and cycled with Mortensen in Uzbekistan and again in Malaysia on their way to a business school course in Singapore, said they only became aware of his sexuality and advocacy when they looked him up online.

“I think he was right,” de Maistre said. “You never know the direction of people.”

Was Mortensen the first openly gay person to bike around the world? That’s difficult to judge. If an LGBTQ+ individual has done it, they have not made a point of publicly sharing their sexuality.

Lael Wilcox , a well-known ultra endurance cyclist who is a lesbian, said in an email that she does not know of any other LGBTQ+ individuals who have completed an around-the-world ride.

Wilcox is planning her own global circumnavigation ride this summer, when she attempts to set a new women’s record, of 110 days.

“I feel that it’s important for our community to have visibility — to have people that are out there doing the same things that everyone else can do,” Mortensen said.

A record in spirit

An around-the-world ride, to the Guinness World Records and other official record keepers, is more than just cycling 18,000 miles.

Other criteria include traveling in a continuous direction, crossing two “antipodes,” or opposite points on the Earth, and beginning and ending at the same point. Mortensen’s ride meets all but the last, as he began and ended on the edge of the Pacific Ocean — in Washington state, and ended in Singapore.

Mortensen, however, does not seek an official Guinness or other record. It was really just about the ride itself.

“Bike travel can be arduous, scary, sometimes even monotonous, but the excitement of encountering the totally unexpected makes it worth every minute,” he wrote on Strava. “And the best part? You can dismount any moment to soak it up.”

Photo captions in an earlier version of this article misidentified images of Mortensen in Göreme, Turkey; Dasu, Pakistan; Nepal; and the Pakistan-India border. The article has been corrected.

Where to go

Our favorite destinations: These 12 destinations are at the top of our wish list for where to go this year, without crowds. In 2023, we explored an Alaskan bear paradise, Brooklyn’s famous pizzerias and a hidden gem in Italy, among other highlights ..

Travel like a local: Residents share their favorite places in our top city guides: New Orleans , Rome , Tokyo and Mexico City .

National parks: This comprehensive guide has details on all 63 U.S. national parks. For a deep dive into five of the most well-known, you can listen to the Field Trip podcast . Then explore tips from locals for visiting Yosemite , Glacier and Everglades .

Tales from the road: Dolly Parton has opened a new resort at her theme park complex in Tennessee, while “Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gaines have a new hotel in Waco . Road-trippers may be just as excited to see the cartoon beaver at Buc-ee’s , and bargain-hunters should consider a stop at the Unclaimed Baggage store in Scottsboro, Ala.

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Standing Up to China, Philippine Leader Courts New Network of Partners

Escalating tensions in the South China Sea, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. says, are not only a regional issue, but a global one.

By Sui-Lee Wee and Camille Elemia

With China aggressively asserting its claims on the South China Sea, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. of the Philippines spent his first year on the job beefing up Manila’s alliance with its oldest ally, the United States. Now he is shoring up support from a wider and new network of partners.

Mr. Marcos is adding a new intensity to his muscular foreign policy at a critical moment in his country’s territorial dispute with Beijing. Maritime clashes between Chinese and Philippine vessels have become more frequent in recent months.

In January, Mr. Marcos and the leaders of Vietnam, another country fighting off Chinese claims to the crucial waterway, pledged closer cooperation between their coast guards. This month, Mr. Marcos clinched a maritime cooperation deal with Australia. And this past week, he took his pitch to Europe.

“It has to be recognized that the South China Sea handles 60 percent of the trade of the entire world. So, it’s not solely the interest of the Philippines, or of ASEAN, or of the Indo-Pacific region, but the entire world,” Mr. Marcos said on Tuesday in Berlin, apparently referring to global maritime trade and using shorthand for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

Standing alongside Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany, Mr. Marcos, the first Philippine president to visit Germany in a decade, added, “That is why it’s in all our interest to keep it as a safe passage for all international commerce that goes on in the South China Sea.”

This flurry of diplomacy, analysts said, might ultimately help to deter China. But they also acknowledged that Beijing was going to continue doubling down on its territorial claims, increasing the risks of a conflict that could ultimately draw in the United States, the Philippines’ oldest treaty ally. Washington has repeatedly condemned Beijing’s actions and has vowed to come to the aid of Manila in the event of an armed conflict.

The foreign policy strategy adopted by Mr. Marcos, who took office in June 2022, is almost the opposite of the approach of his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte. While Mr. Duterte spurned the West and courted China, Mr. Marcos has revived and cemented ties with traditional security partners like the United States and Japan. He has also cultivated new relations with the likes of Sweden and France, and his government has pushed for arms deals and military drills.

Tensions flared again this month when Chinese boats blocked the Philippine vessels off the Second Thomas Shoal, a contested reef 120 miles off the coast of the western province of Palawan. The confrontation culminated in Chinese and Philippine coast guard vessels colliding.

Mr. Marcos told reporters then there was no reason yet to invoke the mutual defense treaty with the United States.

China claims 90 percent of the South China Sea, some of it hundreds of miles from the mainland and in waters surrounding Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and the Philippines. In the past decade or so, China has asserted ever greater control over these waters, using two island chains called the Paracels and the Spratlys to expand its military footprint by building and fortifying outposts and airstrips.

The militarization of the Spratly Islands allowed China to maintain a round-the-clock presence in waters more than 500 miles from the coast of China. At another formation, the Scarborough Shoal, Chinese boats have repeatedly harassed Filipino fishing boats in an area that an international tribunal in The Hague had ruled was a traditional fishing ground of the Philippines, Vietnam and other nations. The Chinese presence also prevented Manila from fully exploring oil and gas deposits in the surrounding water.

China has blamed the Philippines for the frequent clashes in the South China Sea.

Wang Yi, China’s foreign minister, in December admonished the Philippines for “changing its policy stance, reneging on its commitments and continuing to provoke and cause trouble at sea.”

Mr. Wang also issued a warning: “If the Philippines misjudges the situation, insists on going its own way, or even colludes with malicious external forces to continue causing trouble and chaos, China will definitely safeguard its rights in accordance with the law and respond resolutely.”

Two weeks later, the Philippines announced that it had signed agreements with Britain and Canada to increase defense cooperation. They were part of 10 security agreements that Mr. Marcos has signed with seven countries since last year, according to a tally of public statements.

“China is basically pushing us closer to the United States and to the other countries that have already indicated their support, as far as Germany and as far as the Czech Republic,” said Renato Cruz De Castro, a professor of international studies at De La Salle University in Manila.

On Thursday, Petr Pavel, the president of the Czech Republic, said he was willing to cooperate with the Philippines in defense and cybersecurity, adding that his country “fully” supports Manila in the South China Sea.

“To us, South China Sea may seem to be far, far away, but if you take into account the percentage of share of world or global trade that passes through this area, any disruption of these routes would have an adverse impact on Europe, not only in the form of shortage of goods but also soaring prices,” Mr. Pavel told reporters at a joint news conference with Mr. Marcos. “Which is why we have to pay attention to this topic.”

New allies, Mr. De Castro said, are welcome because the Philippines cannot rely on the United States alone, especially if former President Donald J. Trump returns to power next year.

“The U.S. is simply — even Americans would say — so unstable right now, the political system is so volatile, look at what’s happening with the U.S. military assistance to Ukraine,” he said. “And I’m not saying that Trump would win, but there’s always uncertainty because of how unstable American domestic politics is.”

Another important calculus for Mr. Marcos, analysts said, is securing investments for the Philippines.

“That means that we can really be assertive, we can really protect the South China Sea interests without thinking of the economic backlash that China might impose on us,” said Aries A. Arugay, the chairman of the political science department of the University of the Philippines Diliman.

Even India, which has been silent on the South China Sea dispute for years, announced last June that it would provide loans with preferential rates to the Philippines for its military modernization. In August, both countries signed agreements to cooperate in the coast guard sectors.

Last week, when he was in Australia, Mr. Marcos warned that the constant clashes between Filipino and Chinese vessels have increased the risks of miscalculation.

“The potential for outright conflict is much higher now than it was before,” he said. “We worry in the Philippines because it could come from not a strategic decision by anyone saying, ‘OK, we’re going to war,’ but just by some servicemen making a mistake, or some action that’s misunderstood.”

An earlier version of this article misstated one site where Chinese boats harassed Philippine fishermen. It is the Scarborough Shoal, not the Spratly Islands.

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Sui-Lee Wee is the Southeast Asia bureau chief for The Times, overseeing coverage of 11 countries in the region. More about Sui-Lee Wee