Your Guide to Traveling in Asia

Specific Country Guides Below (Coming Soon)

What to Know Before You Go

Asia is vast, vibrant, and full of surprises—from the neon buzz of Tokyo to the rice terraces of Bali and the golden temples of Bangkok. It’s a continent of contrasts, offering deeply spiritual experiences, world-renowned cuisine, and modern wonders. Whether you’re headed to Southeast Asia, East Asia, or the Indian Subcontinent, this guide will help you feel ready for your adventure.

BEFORE YOU GO

1. Passport & Visa Essentials

• Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
• Many Asian countries require a visa—some are available online or upon arrival (e.g., Vietnam, India, Cambodia).
• For multi-country trips, check each destination’s requirements individually.

2. Health & Travel Insurance

• Some countries require proof of vaccinations (especially Yellow Fever if coming from certain regions).
• Commonly recommended vaccines include Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Japanese Encephalitis (in rural areas).
• Travel insurance is essential—make sure it includes medical care and emergency evacuation.

3. Currency & Finances

• Cash is still king in many areas, especially in markets and rural regions.
• Major cities accept credit cards, but always carry local currency.
• Avoid airport exchanges; use ATMs or currency exchanges in reputable areas.
• Notify your bank before traveling and consider a travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees.

PACKING FOR ASIA

• Pack modest, breathable clothing, especially for religious sites.
• Bring slip-on shoes—you’ll often remove them at temples or homes.
• Pack bug spray, especially in tropical areas with mosquitoes.
• Bring a scarf or lightweight cover-up for temples and cooler indoor spaces.
• Include reusable water bottle, hand sanitizer, and tissues (some restrooms won’t have toilet paper!).

CULTURE & COMMUNICATION

• Learn a few local phrases—simple greetings go a long way.
• Be respectful at temples: cover shoulders/knees, remove shoes, stay quiet.
• Tipping varies—in Japan it’s not customary, but in Thailand or Vietnam, small tips are appreciated.
• Show patience—things may move at a different pace or follow different customs than you’re used to.

MUST-HAVE EXPERIENCES IN ASIA

• Walk the Great Wall of China
• Ride a tuk-tuk through Bangkok
• Take a cooking class in Vietnam
• Visit Angkor Wat at sunrise (Cambodia)
• Explore Kyoto’s temples and geisha culture
• Float in a long-tail boat in Thailand or Laos
• Trek to see Mount Fuji or Mount Everest
• Explore the markets of Delhi, Seoul, or Taipei
• Relax in Bali, the Maldives, or the beaches of Sri Lanka

QUICK REGIONAL SNAPSHOT

Region	Highlights	Travel Notes
Southeast Asia	Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia	Budget-friendly, tropical, rich in culture and cuisine.
East Asia	Japan, China, South Korea, Taiwan	Tech-forward cities, ancient traditions, efficient transport.
South Asia	India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives	Colorful, spiritual, bustling with life—great for adventure.
Central Asia	Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan	Off-the-beaten-path gems with stunning landscapes and Silk Road history.
Middle East (Western Asia)	Jordan, UAE, Israel	Desert landscapes, historic wonders, and modern cities.

FINAL TRAVEL TIPS

• Download offline maps, language tools, and ride apps (Grab, Gojek, etc.).
• Don’t drink tap water—use bottled or purified water in most areas.
• Traffic can be intense—don’t assume vehicles will stop even at crosswalks.
• Watch out for travel scams near tourist hotspots; stay alert but not anxious.
• Stay flexible—Asia’s beauty often lies in the unexpected!

“Asia offers beauty in its contrasts—ancient and modern, serene and chaotic. Embrace the difference, and you’ll leave with more than just souvenirs—you’ll leave with stories.”