Chapter 2

Asias Top Destinations

From visiting Giant Pandas in Chengdu, China, to basking on the beach in Bali, Asia provides your clients with a wealth of experiences found nowhere else on the globe. Following is just a sampling of Asias top places to send your clients.

Cambodia

Overview: The country shares its borders with Thailand to the west and northwest, Laos to the northeast, Vietnam to the east, and Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. Cambodias terrain consists mainly of low plains, with mountains to the southwest and north. The Mekong River slices through the country from north to south. Why go there? One of the worlds most venerable treasures is the Angkor Archeological Park, a World Heritage Site whose jewel is the Temple of Angkor Wat, containing the remains of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to 15th centuries. The Riverside district in the countrys capital, Phnom Penh, features classic French Colonial architecture and lovely views. The Khmer Rouge museum and the nearby killing fields are a grim but popular attraction. Siem Reap is where many riverboats embark on Mekong River cruises. The beaches of Sihanoukville offer white-sand beaches and warm Gulf of Thailand waters. For more information: www.tourismcambodia.com

China

Overview: Home to an ancient civilization, friendly people and some of the worlds most unparalleled treasures, China has is a land of superlatives. Its the worlds most populous country with 1.3 to 1.5 billion people, or one out of five people in the world; it has 21 cities with populations of more than 5 million; its the thirdlargest country in the world in terms of area; and its economy is the fastest growing in the world. Why go there? Beijing, for a wealth of attractions, including the Forbidden City, Great Wall, Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven. Shanghai is a paradise for shoppers (think Nanjing Road and thats just to start); and gourmands (the city boasts more than 1,000 restaurants). Other attractions are the citys Bund, Temple of Jade Buddha, Yu Garden, Old City Bazaar, Shanghai Museum and Childrens Palace. Xian, the capital of 16 dynasties, is the site where travelers will find the Tomb of Emperor Qin Shihuang, including the terra-cotta Warriors and Horses. Guilin, set on the Lijiang River, offers serene mountains and oddly formed karst rock formations. Book your clients on a river cruise here. Chengdu, the capital of the Sichuan province, offers travelers spicy hot food and is home to the Giant

Panda Breeding Research Base. Its also a terrific jumping off point for trips to Mount Emei, one of the four Chinese mountains considered sacred by Buddhists, and the nearby Giant Buddha of Leshan, the largest in the world. For more information: www.cnto.org

Hong Kong

Overview: Prepare your clients to be dazzled when visiting Hong Kong, a city believed to have more skyscrapers than any other in the world, and which, when lit up at night looks like a jewel on steroids. Until 1997 and the Hong Kong hand over, the destination was a colony of the United Kingdom. Today, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) is a part of China. Why go there? The Peak Ride is the tram that transports travelers to Victoria Peak, affording stunning panoramic views. Victoria Harbor is one of the busiest and most exciting natural harbors in the world set to a backdrop of Hong Kongs skyscraper skyline. The Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade has even more spectacular harbor views. Happy Valley is a great venue for horse racing in the city center. Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Templeis arguably one of Hong Kongs most fascinating temples, filled with traditional buildings, and where Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism are practiced under one roof. For more information: www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/

Indonesia

Overview: With 17,504 islands large and small, the Republic of Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world. Located between the continents of Asia and Australia and between the Pacific and the Indian Oceans, it is as wide as the U.S. from San Francisco to New York, equaling the distance between London and Moscow. Indonesia has a total population of more than 215 million people from more than 200 ethnic groups. Why go there? The most well known destinations include Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan (formerly Borneo), Sulawesi (formerly Celebes), the Maluku Islands (or better known as Moluccas, the original Spice Islands) and Papua. The most famous island is Bali, and for good reason: There are many things to do and see here, from surfing on Nusa Lembongan to the countrys formidable number of temples. A rugged and volcanic sister island, Flores, is a perfect spot for nature lovers. Sumba draws visitors with tribal traditions and weaving history. Pulau Weh features pristine beaches and excellent diving. Banda Islands is known for excellent snorkeling and coral gardens. For more information: www.indonesia.travel

Japan

Overview: There are four islands that primarily comprise Japan: From the north to the south, they are Hokkaido; the main island, and the one with the most tourist attractions, Honshu; Shikoku; and Kyushu. Why go there?

 Tokyo, the countrys capital, is where more than 13 million people live, making it one of the most populous cities in the world. Travelers wont want to miss seeing the Meiji Shrine, one of the most stunning examples of a Shinto shrine; the Edo-Tokyo museum; the Mori Art Museum; the Suntory Museum of Art; and the National Art Center. The city also features myriad shopping districts. The culturally rich city of Kyoto, which served as Japans capital for more than 1,000 years, features 17 World Heritage sites and more than 1,600 Buddhist temples. Sapporo on the northern island of Hokkaido, features a snow festival in winter, when, for seven days in February, statues and sculptures of all sizes and shapes transform the city into a winter dreamland. Nikko, set at the foot of Mt. Nyoho-san in the western part of Tochigi, is well known for, among other things, three famous shrines: Futarasan Jinja Shrine, Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple. Visitors to Hiroshima will learn about its past -- and recovery -- from the bomb that virtually destroyed it during World War II. For more information: http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/

Korea

Overview: South Korea comprises the Korean Peninsulas southern half and is surrounded by the Sea of Japan and the Yellow Sea. It shares its border with North Korea at a ceasefire line that was created in 1953. The country, which until the end of World War II was dominated by either China or Japan, has most decidedly come into its own. It is now the 13th-largest economy in the world. Why go there? Seoul, which has served as the countrys capital since the 14th century, has much to offer travelers. Tell clients to travel to the top of N Seoul Tower to see what the country has created since Korean Wars end. The Gyeongbok Palace is the countrys most famous and sits at the end of Seouls main boulevard, Sejongro. Jeonju is a venue both foodies and history buffs. Its the birthplace of bibimbap (rice, seasoned veggies meat, a fried egg, and chili sauce) and the Joseon dynasty, which ruled the Korea Peninsula from 1392 until the Japanese occupation of Korea in 1910. Recommend that clients visit one of the traditional teahouses there. Lovers of the great outdoors will enjoy Seoraksan National Park, with its gorgeous mountains and forests. The port city Busan attracts visitors with its lively markets. Jeju-do, with its spectacular volcanic landscapes, comes highly recommended. For more information: www.visitkorea.or.kr/

Laos

Overview: For travelers who really want to relax and get a taste of an Asia from long ago, Laos comes highly recommended. Its as if time stopped here, enabling travelers to take in the countrys misty mountains, French colonial towns and golden Buddhist stupas. Why go there? The capital city of Vientiane is a sleepy town with a fading French ambiance. One of the countrys tourism jewels is the mountain-encircled Luang Prabang, a World Heritage Site with 32 temples. Near the town of Phonsavan, travelers will have the chance to visit The Plain of Jars, which are scattered throughout the Xieng Khouang plateau. The jars, fashioned from stone, are thought to be 2,000 years old and are like an Asian version of Stonehenge.

 For eco-tourists, Phu Khao Khuay Npa is a forested nature reserve with waterfalls and a herd of wild elephants. Nam Ha Npa National Protected Area may be the most popular park in Laos. For more information: www.tourismlaos.org

Malaysia

Overview: The peninsula features a mlange of Malay, Chinese and Indian groups, and indigenous groups including the Orang Asli, Dayaks, Kadazan Dusun, Melanau, Murut and Sarawak, meanwhile, the largest state in Malaysia, is located on the southwestern corner of Malaysian Borneo. Why go there? Kuala Lumpur, the countrys capital, is filled with high rises juxtaposed to historic temples and mosques. Recommend that your clients visit the observation Deck of Menara KL for sweeping views of the city. Travelers should explore the citys robust array of temples and mosques, as well as the incredible Chinatown markets. A trip to the Colonial District is also a must, with its onion domes and gothic towers. For beach goers, recommend Pulau Perhentian, which actually comprises two islands: Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil. On the island of Penang, its capital of George Town is a World Heritage Site. Langkawi, a 99-island archipelago, has become a tourism magnet, the largest of which, Andaman, is ideal for couples and honeymooners. Two-thirds of Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo, is comprised of rainforest. Sarawak is best known for its unscathed natural setting and cultural attractions. For more information: www.tourismmalaysiausa.com

The Philippines

Overview: Comprising an archipelago of 7,107 islands, the Philippines stretch from the south of China to the northern tip of Borneo. The country is home to more than 100 ethnic groups, which have contributed to the countrys unique culture. Why go there? Manila, its capital, offers visitors a wide range of activities and attractions, including Intramuros, the Walled city of Old Manila; Nayong Pilipino, a theme park that details a small-scale version of the countrys famous landmarks; and Rizal Park, peppered with monuments to Filipino heroes. Sun worshippers will be in heaven when visiting Boracay Islands breathtaking beaches. The most famous is White Beach. Bohol Island combines great beaches with fantastic dive sites; and attractions including the Chocolate Hills, which look like giant mole hills; caves; and waterfalls. The Batangas province features fantastic dive spots for novices and veterans alike, including Anilao in Mabini and Sombrero Island in Tingloy. El Nido, a protected area in the western Philippines has an ecosystem with nearly 900 species of fish; more than 400 species of coral; and more than100 species of birds. The destination also features three archeological sites that date back at least 9,000 years. For more information: www.dotpcvc.gov.ph

Singapore

Overview: This city-state that was founded as a British trading colony in 1819. Today, it boasts the worlds busiest port. Singapore combines the skyscrapers of a modern, affluent city with a unique mix of Chinese, Malay and Indian influences. Tasty food, good shopping and a vibrant nightlife are the main selling points. Why go there? Singaporean food is renowned. Shopping! Clients should head to Orchard Road and Suntec City. Two casino complexes opened in 2010 in Sentosa and Marina Bay. Despite being one of the worlds most densely populated countries, Singapore boasts more than 50 major parks and four nature reserves. Riverside is Singapores colonial heart, with museums, theaters, restaurants, bars and clubs. Cultural attractions include the Singapore Art Museum and Universal Studios Singapore, the first moviethemed park in Southeast Asia. A separate island, Sentosa is sunny destination with beaches and entertainment. For more information: www.yoursingapore.com

Thailand

Overview: The only country in Southeast Asia never colonized by a European power, Thailand is home to one of the most exciting big cities in the world, but not at the expense of charming villages, beautiful beaches, fabulous cuisine, and historical and cultural attractions galore. Why go there? Thailands capital, Bangkok, is a city that combines venerable, gilded temples and palaces with ultra-modern skyscrapers. Just a days trip away is Kanchanaburi and the famous River Kwai Bridge. Chiang Mai, an hours plane ride from Bangkok, introduces your clients to cooking classes, hill tribe trekking, river rafting and elephant rides. Mae Hong Son is tops with active vacationers, due to its verdant, mountainous landscape with twisting roads and villages punctuated by Burmese/Shan temples. Phuket is a perennial crowd pleaser. About the size the size of Singapore, it features 25 miles of beaches. Travelers come from all around the world to learn how to dive on Ko Tao. Clients looking for a little more action may favor the islands larger counterparts, Koh Phi Phi Don and Ko Samui. For more information: www.tourismthailand.org

Vietnam

Overview: One of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in the world, Vietnam has become increasingly sophisticated, featuring an array of attractions that appeal to a diverse audience. Why go there? Vietnams capital city, Hanoi, features a 1,000-year-old Old Quarter as charming as any in Asia. Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), offers fascinating museums and a French colonial-flavored landscape. Tell clients not to miss the Viet Congs underground fortress several hours away from Ho Chi Minh City, the

Cu Chi Tunnels. Halong Bay comprises thousands of unusually shaped islands rising from the Gulf of Tonkin. The countrys coastline plays host to some of the most stunning beaches in Asia, including Hoi Ann and Phu Quoc. Hue, once the countrys Imperial City and later the countrys capital under the Nguyen dynasty, is thick with architecture, art and history, and serves as a perfect stop for your culturally minded customers. For more information: www.vietnamtourism-info.com

Agent Advice
Agent experts offer the following tips for selling Asia. Consider selling Laos, now. Were calling 2012 the Year of Laos, says Andrea Ross, founder of Journeys Within Tour Company, based in Truckee, Calif. and Siem Reap, Cambodia. For clients looking for untrammeled areas of Asia, Laos is the answer, she says, and because the country is still relatively undiscovered its the most susceptible to change. Laos is on the same track as Cambodia, says Ross, noting that, for all intents and purposes, Cambodias tourism infrastructure has become very sophisticated. When selling Laos, focus on how wonderful the people-to-people experience is. The must-see in Laos is going out to see a hill tribe or an ethnic group. Its all about the people, she says. You can drive 10 minutes of the city and feel youre in the middle of nowhere. Book clients during the right time of year. November to March are the best months to go, she Lisa Koon, CTC and chairman of San Diego PATA for 2011. January is by far the best month. Koon, who is also the owner of Panorama Travel in Coronado, Calif., says that prices dont fluctuate that dramatically based on season. Its either rainy or its not. Tap into the honeymoon market. Most people getting married have already lived together and they want a honeymoon where they see something new from another culture, says Liliane Nash, manager of leisure at Altour International in New York. The days of sitting on the beach arent so popular anymore. Nash suggests combining such destinations as Cambodia and Vietnam, and tacking on two or three beach days in Thailands Phuket or Ko Samui. She adds that her honeymoon clients have saved their money for exotic vacations just like this.