10 Amazing Destinations for First Time Travel to Asia
There are different suggestions of where to go for first trip in Asia. Some may suggest Thailand as it is really famous, the other may recommend Maldives for the ultimate oceanic experiences, this is my own favorite places in Asia :
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Located 700 km north of Bangkok, in the verdant valley along the bank of Ping River, Chiang Mai will delight the travellers by its misty mountains, colorful hill tribes and fascinating temples.
With lively nightlife and some great shopping destination, this Thai city won’t disappoint its first time visitors. Besides exploring the religious and spiritual sites, one can explore natural beauty and wildlife at some of the renowned sanctuaries, botanical garden and national parks.
Local arts and handicrafts are a major hit among the tourists, who buy them as souvenirs.
See also : Where to stay in Chiang Mai
Bagan, Myanmar
There is no better place in Asia to travel back to the past than Bagan. This sacred plains is studded with over 2,000 pagodas and temples dated back from 11th century. It offers endless photo shooting opportunities which vary beautifully from sunrise with balloon to sunset panorama
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
This Malaysian capital city with a myriad of British colonial era landmarks along with modern skyscrapers dominating the skyline is one of the best places for the first time travellers. It’s a melting pot of various ethnicity and cultures, making it an attractive destination in Asia. Divided into various districts, its main hub is called the Golden Triangle which comprises Bukit Bintang, KLCC and Chinatown. For foodies, this city offers culinary delight with an array of delicacies.
For a better idea of trip planning, explore Malaysia Travel Itinerary suggestion from our friend Hannah Golton
Luang Prabang, Laos
This ancient town located in northern Laos, in a valley at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, is adorned with 33 gilded wats, saffron clad monks, faded Indochinese villas and exquisite Gallic cuisine. Tourist gets charmed with historic French architecture, glistening temples and extensive natural beauty, that provides ample opportunity for trekking, kayaking, river cruise and mountain biking. This UNESCO World Heritage site with fascinating landmarks would never disappoint its first time travellers.
Sri Lanka
This island country in Indian Ocean with a coastline of 1340 km long offers a relaxed experience to the first time travellers.A perfect Sri Lanka Travel Itinerary often comprises of a short train ride over the lush tea plantation, waterfall hopping, an overnight trek and end up by one of its sandy beaches.
Despite of its small size, Sri Lanka with its wide range of flora and fauna offers attracts a great number of nature lovers while the adventurers can engage in varied activities like snorkeling, scuba diving.
For those who fancy the waves, surfing in Sri Lanka is simply amazing. Some amazing sites like Arugam Bay, Lazy Lefts, Weligama are luring enough for such thrilling experience.
Bali, Indonesia
Known for its forested volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, beaches and coral reefs; this Indonesian island is an idyllic retreat. Embellished with picturesque mountains, pristine coastlines, gorgeous waterfalls, verdant forests and beautiful remnants of old architecture, this ancient city never fails to amaze its visitors. Known for yoga and meditation retreats, Bali gets good number of visitors who are into leisure travel with healthy living.
For the first timer, do not miss Bandung, home to photogenic rice terraces and so many instagrammable spots.
Taiwan
Taiwan is a destination of distinctiveness. This island-country does not attract you with on-water resorts but amazing in-land experiences. While the vibrant Taipei showcases the dynamic metropolitan life, Toroko national park exhibits the true spirit of nature.
The country also offers one of the best diving sites, rock climbing sites in the world.
Hong Kong
For every first time visitor, Hong Kong offers a perfect blend of its colonial past and Chinese present with fantastic visual of tall skyscrapers competing with each other. A city build on land reclaimed from the sea, it has become a perfect amalgamation of various cultures. No matter how bewildering it can be with endless rows of skyscrapers, the bustling streets and the Chinese symbols; this exciting metropolis has best attractions to offer along with some finest dining and amazing shopping experiences.
Suggestion : Hong Kong Travel
Hoi An, Vietnam
Hoi An is a beautiful ancient town in central Vietnam. It is a wonderful place to enjoy culture, rural landscapes and beach. While the old houses reflects the rich Asian culture from time, visitors have chances to sample delicious Vietnamese foods.
Check out: Vietnam destinations for family
Singapore
This sovereign city-state and island country in Southeast Asia is full of attractions and activities, which can easily confuse a first time traveller. The city of expats creates the best of impression through the Changi Airport that wins the best airport award every year. In the maze of skyscrapers, shopping malls, museums; Singapore boasts loads of urban green space and park trails that awaits to be explored. From Chinatown to Little India, the city offers cultural contrasts and is gastronomical delight.
Suggestion: Singapore Marina Bay