It’s always easiest to stick with what you know. Thinking of hitting the beach? Thailand or Bali are the obvious choices. Fancy an Asian city break? Try Bangkok. But there are plenty of other places to try, which offer similar experiences, but may have other advantages too. Keep these alternative destinations in mind when planning your next trip, and get ready for new experiences in 2016.
Go to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, instead of Manila, Philippines
Both these Asian cities offer good shopping and lots of culinary delights, but Kuala Lumpur also boasts superior public transport, a relaxed city centre and a plethora of colonial architectural marvels, many of which are worth a drive-by at the very least. Check out the Petronas Twin Towers and Kuala Lumpur Tower, too.
Go to Boracay, Philippines, instead of Bali, Indonesia
Boracay doesn’t have much of the temple culture and art that Bali can boast – after all it’s a relatively small island compared to Bali. But there’s still plenty to do, particularly if you usually look to Bali for a beach holiday. Boracay has beautiful white sands beaches, compared to Bali’s black sand, and is the perfect spot for a wide range of water sports, from some of the best kite surfing in Asia to diving, snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding and much more. The night life is fun too and, while it may not have the trendy bars and named restaurants of Bali, it’s White Beach scene is accessible and enjoyable. Plus, a holiday on this Philippines island will set you back only a fraction of the cost of a trip to Bali.
Go to Osaka, Japan, instead of Beijing, China
There are high stakes when it comes to food between these two contenders, but Osaka pips the top spot for its local specialties, whether you want to try the okonomiyaki (a pancake-pizza-omelette hybrid) or the sushi and dumplings that are specific to the city. Both cities are also home to wide cultural and historical offerings, but Osaka is close enough for day trips to historic Kyoto, sake-centric Kobe, the scenic ancient city of Nara and Himeji, home to Japan’s finest castle, once the biggest in all of Asia, making it the perfect base from which to explore even more of Japan.
Go to Palawan, Philippines instead of Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is crowded and expensive, and it’s often all about the beach, beach, beach. Look to Palawan for a plethora of untouched beauty. But do so quickly. More and more travellers and tourists are heading to the Philippines, so get in there before the secret is out on the beauty of the various islands of Palawan. Whether you are visiting the Subterranean River National Park at Puerto Princesa, trekking in the jungle or discovering the incredible underwater life, still turquoise lagoons or peaceful beaches, Phuket will always be there – go to Palawan now.
Go to New York City, United States, instead of Tokyo, Japan
While New York City doesn’t have the quirkiness of Japan’s capital, it’s certainly got the urban bustle, excitement and variety on par with Tokyo. There is no shortage of things to see and places to explore in this populous U.S. city. Check out museums and galleries for the visual arts or Broadway for a play, try the exceptional variety of restaurants and do a little window shopping at the many shops and boutiques on offer.
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Go to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, instead of Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is a great weekend away – there’s fantastic food, both on the street and off, a river to float down, temples, shopping, massages and an energetic hustle and bustle. But why not consider Ho Chi Minh City? Vietnam’s capital has a similar bustle, but much improved traffic, as well as historical monuments and vibrant markets to explore. There are plenty of opportunity for relaxation, and the food is similarly exceptional. Try street-food staples, including Vietnamese pancakes, fresh rice rolls and pho.
Go to Las Vegas, Nevada, United States, instead of Macau, China
Macau is often called Asia’s Las Vegas, but if you have the time and means to travel a little further, there’s nothing like visiting the original Las Vegas, particularly if it’s not all about the gaming. Aside from the old Portuguese parts of town in Macao, which swarm with tourists on holidays and weekends, Vegas has much more to offer in terms of leisure and entertainment, with exciting bars, celebrity chef restaurants and a host of musicals, shows and stage performances to ensure there’s never a dull moment.
Go to London, England, instead of Shanghai, China
Yes, Shanghai is a city where East meets West — the ancient Chinese temples sit beside the French concession neighbourhood and the colonial riverside architecture of the Bund. But London is a similarly multi-cultural city with a rich history and offers visitors a wide range of art, theatre, food, fashion, music and entertainment. If you love Shanghai, add London to your travel list in 2016.
Go to Delhi, India, instead of Seoul, South Korea
Seoul has a trendy, polished sheen about it – it’s contemporary and cool. Contrast that with the many sights and sounds of Delhi – its packed streets, the colours, the excitement and the infectious energy – and maybe its a tough choice? The more adventurous choose India with its Red Fort, UNESCO World Heritage Sites which include Humayun’s Tomb and the Qutub complex, its various monuments and religious structures young and old, not to mention its bustling bazaars and artisanal handicrafts.
Go to Taipei, Taiwan, instead of Hong Kong
Taipei and Hong Kong are both known for their food scenes, but the former offers a particularly pleasant experience for the culinary inclined thanks to its night markets where small bites on offer throughout the evening and into the night allow for varied dining. The city is also less crowded than its counterpart, with plenty of green space and a sprawling layout of comparatively low-rise buildings. With influences from Japan, Korea and China permeating the architecture, culture and local cuisine, Taipei offers a pan-regional experience.
Feature image: Featured image: istockphoto.com/milanstojanovic
Slider image: Wilerson S Andrade, Colorful-New-York-City-1800×2880, via Flickr CC BY-SA 2.0
