Our top 10 places to journey to next…

Is your suitcase as worn out as ours? Looking for places to journey to next?

We know that travellers are always looking for that hidden gem, that ultimate experience, those special moments that make a holiday an adventure. As Asia travel experts, we are continuously looking for those lesser-travelled destinations too. Here you’ll find our top 10 pick of the best places to journey to next. Where we have found that concealed noodle shop, or walked those hilly mountain tops to share with you our ultimate experiences that’ll take you off the beaten path in 2017.

#1 Walk through the Jiuzhaigou National Park, China

 

Jiuzhaigou National Park, also known as the Nine Villages Valley, is one of China’s greatest natural assets! It’s Wendy’s favourite place to visit. A walk through this stunning national park will take you through traditional Tibetan villages and past crystal clear pools reflecting the snow-capped mountains that surround the valley.

 

 

 

#2 Stay with the locals in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan

On the road to Samarkand, stop off in Karakol and spend the night at a local homestay. Soak up the surroundings, play football with the kids in the street, wander through the market, or simply sit with the locals and sip on a hot tea whilst watching the world go by. Here the locals are unaccustomed to seeing many westerners, so don’t be alarmed when you are met with a curious yet charming welcome.

#3 Witness the Mongolian Naadam Festival

Locally, the festival is known as “eriin gurvan naadam”, meaning “the three games of men”, which accurately describes the annual festival where the men of Mongolia take part in Mongolian wrestling, horse racing and archery.

 

 

 

 

 

#4 Spend an evening among monks, Japan

Stay overnight in a shukubo (Buddhist temple lodge) in Koyasan, Japan. Spend the evening relaxing and reflecting in a traditional onsen (hot spring bath). Awake in the morning to the sounds of chanting monks and enjoy the peacefulness and serenity that comes with stepping off the beaten path.

#5 Explore the bizarre Plain of Jars, Laos

Giant stone jars are scattered across the plains surrounding Phonsavan, Laos. With an unknown origin and mysterious history, many ask the question, how did they get there? Were they made to brew large quantities of rice wine, or use as kilns? We can’t really say, but they’re worth a visit.

#6 Take a bullock cart in Rajasthan, India

A bullock cart is one of rural India’s most popular means of transportation. Climb aboard a cart which is pulled by oxen. Travel just as the Rajasthani people do. You won’t find many other tourists taking a bullock cart around Rajasthan!

 

#7 Witness a spiritual Puja Ceremony, Sri Lanka

The Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil Temple in Jaffna, is one of the most significant Hindu religious complexes in Sri Lanka. Witness locals making offerings to its sacred deity, Murugan, in a spiritual Puja ceremony.

#8 Take a hike through the rice terraces of Sapa, Vietnam

Northern Vietnam conjures up images of lush green mountains, and traditional Vietnamese hill tribes. Take a hike through the spectacular valleys and make sure you have your camera ready!

#9 Play Mahjong with locals in Beijing, China

Mahjong is a traditional Chinese game that you will find locals playing across Beijing, on street corners, in lane-ways or in parks. Pull up a stool, have a chat and have a go! We can’t guarantee that you’ll beat them though.

 

#10 Stare in awe at the towering Himalayan Mountains, Pokhara, Nepal

So this one might not be too far from the usual tourist trail, but we think it’s worth a spot on sights to see! Pokhara sits on the banks of Phewa Lake, surrounded by the stunning Annapurna and Manaslu ranges of the mighty Himalayas. The lake provides the perfect mirror, reflecting the surrounding towering mountains and spectacular scenery.