By BrainFall Staff - Updated: October 21, 2015
Planning a trip to the Eastern Hemisphere but can’t decide on a destination? We’re here to help! Take this quiz to find out which Asian country should be first on your bucket list.
Which Asian Country Should You Visit?
Deciding which Asian country to visit is like trying to pick a favorite ice cream flavor at the world's most exotic gelato shop—overwhelming but deliciously rewarding. With a spectrum ranging from the pho-nomenal streets of Vietnam to the sushi sanctuaries of Japan, Asia is a buffet of history, culture, and adventure. Worried about picking the perfect destination? Easy-peasy, your biggest struggle should be mastering chopsticks or figuring out how to fit an entire street food market in your suitcase.
Imagine yourself sipping on chai in the shadow of the Taj Mahal, or maybe you're more about riding the neon waves of Tokyo's techno temples. How about feeling like Indiana Jones while uncovering the ancient temples of Cambodia, or are you craving the peaceful embrace amidst the lush landscapes of the Philippines? Each country in Asia narrates a different story, tantalizing your senses and offering experiences that are as varied as the continents’ climates.
Choosing Your Asian Adventure
Ready to swap your couch for a rickshaw or sushi conveyor belt? Choosing your next Asian adventure can be as dizzying as a tuk-tuk ride through Bangkok's back alleys, but fret not, intrepid traveler! Whether you're gazing for skyscrapers or scouring for the best street food, there's an Asian escapade with your name on it. Let's zoom in on the kaleidoscope of options.
Deciphering Destinations: East Vs Southeast Vs South Asia
East Asia: You've probably fantasized about the neon dazzle of Tokyo, the historical heft of China's Great Wall, or Seoul's K-pop beats. East Asia is your tech-savvy, history-rich playground.
Southeast Asia: Think Thailand's temples, Vietnam's frantic scooter symphony, or Bali's chill wave vibes. Perfect for you, beach bum or culture vulture.
South Asia: Here lies the heart of heritage with India's Taj Mahal and Sri Lanka's ancient temples. Spice up your life and perhaps your palette in this soulful subcontinent.
Urban Explorations: Skyscrapers to Street Food
Skyscrapers: For a concrete jungle jaunt, Hong Kong's skyline is your go-to, while Singapore bedazzles with Marina Bay Sands' infinity pool.
Street Food: Yours truly, Bangkok, a street food sensation where you'll find more flavors than your taste buds knew existed. And try not to drool in Ho Chi Minh City - it's pho-nomenal!
Pristine Paradises: Beaches and Islands Galore
- Thailand: A fairy-tale book of beaches - think Phuket and the golden sands of Koh Phi Phi.
- Philippines: Over 7,000 islands to choose from, with Boracay's electric white sand starring in your vacation fantasies.
- Maldives: Snorkeling in an aquarium-like Indian Ocean? Yes, please!
Culture Quest: Temples, Traditions, and Tantalizing Food
Japan: Savor a serene moment in Kyoto's bamboo groves, contrasted by Tokyo's sushi speedways.
Southeast Asia: Vietnam's lantern-lit Hoi An or Cambodia's mystical Angkor Wat, there's a cultural cocktail waiting to be sipped.
Trekking Through Time: History and Nature Intertwined
- India: Get regal in Rajasthan's palaces or spiritual in Varanasi.
- China & Nepal: Flex those muscles trekking the Himalayas or walking China's history-laden trails.
Adventurous Souls: Off the Beaten Track Recommendations
Indonesia: Beyond Bali, Lombok's charms await. Vietnam: Northern gems like Sapa's rice terraces beckon. Oman: Deserts and mountains for your personal Arabian Nights.
Now, with your imagination stoked like a Malaysian satay grill, it's time to pinpoint your dream destination. Dare to dream, and you might just find your perfect Asian quest with the help of this quiz. Happy trails, and don't forget to send a postcard!
Practical Tips for the Perplexed Traveler
Embarking on an Asian odyssey can be a head-scratcher, but with a sprinkle of savvy and a dash of daring, you'll be navigating the exotic like a pro.
Initiating the Itinerary: Planning and Packing
Your journey to Asia isn't so much about finding yourself as it is about not losing your luggage. Clear a space on your floor, and let's sort the must-haves from the just-in-cases. Lightweight clothing is a no-brainer for tropical humidity, but toss in a sturdy pair of walking shoes for those unexpected nature trails. Not to mention, your charger might need a buddy in the form of a universal adapter to keep your gadgets juiced up.
Navigating Noodles and Nightlife: Where to Eat and Party
Asia's cuisine is a vibrant dance of flavors, you just need to learn the steps. Dive into street food stalls for a taste of authenticity; just follow the locals to the longest queue – it's worth the wait. But hey, if your stomach is a bit more delicate, research restaurants with rave reviews. As for nightlife, skip the well-trodden tourist traps. Instead, find that hole-in-the-wall bar where the drink names are as colorful as the characters you'll meet.
Staying Safe and Sane: Health, Safety, and Etiquette
Remember, it's not just a vacation; it's an adventure in staying whole and healthy. Vaccinations? Check. Insurance? Double-check. Learn a few phrases of the local lingo – not only is it polite, it's also your lifeline in a pickle. Avoid tap water's siren call – it's bottled water or bust. And remember, in a bustling street market, a smile is your best defense against an aggressive vendor.
The Art of Bargaining in Bustling Bazaars and Shops
You'll find the bazaars are less a market, more a merry mosh pit of haggling. Here's the secret: vendors expect you to counter their first offer, so put on that poker face and prepare to perform a wallet-friendly waltz. Starting at half the asking price isn't playing dirty; it's playing smart. Be bold, but stay as cool as an iced latte – you're in this for the deal of the century.
Engaging with the Environs: Eco-Tourism and Keeping Green
You're not just a tourist; you're an eco-warrior on vacation. Stride into nature, from misty rainforests to the holy sanctity of national parks, with the gentle touch of a tiger's whisker. Opt for wildlife tours that support conservation over cages, bring a reusable water bottle, and always take your trash back out with you. Every little bit helps when you're rubbing elbows with Mother Nature.