Asia: Hong Kong & Thailand

Colonization by the Dutch in the 17th century has left an ample architectural legacy, as did Taiwan's rule by Japan from 1895-1945. Grab a coffee at the former British Consulate, a landmark overlooking the bay. Art lovers can enjoy the outdoors and contemporary sculptures at the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts' Sculpture Park, and for a spiritual experience, a visit to the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Centre, with the world's largest sitting Buddha, is highly recommended.

This former British colony brims with modern skyscrapers, ancient traditions and incredible food. A shopper's paradise, local shops and markets offer everything imaginable, from silk to jewellery and electronics. The highest point in the city, Victoria Peak, offers sweeping views of this vibrant city. Hollywood Road's temple and antique shops are worth exploring, or take a junk cruise and explore the magnificent bay. As Asia's culinary capital, your gastronomic desires are sure to be fulfilled.

Dotted with thousands of limestone islets, Ha Long Bay is a breathtaking World Heritage Site that calls out to be explored. Hop on a kayak or take a boat tour to get close to these jungle-capped karst wonders or explore the caves inside. If history draws you, head 60 miles west to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam for 1,000 years. Rich in native and French colonial influences in architecture, it has been called the "Paris of Asia." The grounds of the Temple of Literature and ancient university are particularly stunning.

Situated on a picturesque bay, Nha Trang is known for its sandy beaches and one of the longest cable cars in the world. At two miles long, the cable car to Hon Tre Island offers an amazing, mobile view over the bay. If history calls you, a visit to the Po Nagar Cham Towers dating to 781 is in order. Also compelling is the Long Song Pagoda, with its intricate architecture, mosaics and garden. Linger on the grounds, then climb 150 stone steps to the 70-foot-tall White Buddha at the top and enjoy a panoramic view of Nha Trang.

Discover the rich heritage of Saigon and the Mekong Delta. You won't forget a ride on a cycle rickshaw, known locally as xích lô ("sick-low"). Sit back as your driver whisks you past pagodas, colonial architecture and vibrant markets. A nice contrast to the city is the lush countryside of rice paddies and tiny villages along the Mekong. The freshness of the food is highlighted by the phenomenal fusion of local cuisine, a unique blend of Asian spices and French cooking styles.

Sihanoukville sits on the lovely island-studded Bay of Thailand. Neighbouring the city is the ecological gem Ream National Park, an 81-square-mile reserve that encompasses a variety of land and marine habitats including evergreen mountain forests, mangrove forests, reefs and freshwater wetlands. There, you might see dolphins, dugongs (a type of manatee) or monkeys. Beach lovers will want to soak up the sun on tree-lined Serendipity Beach, with fine sand and clear water.

Bangkok's glorious golden temples and palaces, the royal barges and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, carved from a single block of jade, are must-sees for any visitor. The riverside Temple of Dawn is also stunning and worth seeing. The Royal Palace, a massive complex of carved and gilded buildings, is familiar to many as the setting of the true story of Anna and the King of Siam - and is still used by the royal family today. Bangkok will heighten your senses and fuel memories for a lifetime.

Bangkok's glorious golden temples and palaces, the royal barges and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, carved from a single block of jade, are must-sees for any visitor. The riverside Temple of Dawn is also stunning and worth seeing. The Royal Palace, a massive complex of carved and gilded buildings, is familiar to many as the setting of the true story of Anna and the King of Siam - and is still used by the royal family today. Bangkok will heighten your senses and fuel memories for a lifetime.

Feel like Thai royalty as you ride an elephant then see these clever animals show their work skills. Ko Samui is an idyllic, forested island with pristine sandy beaches, but venture inland and see majestic cascading waterfalls or a plantation where monkeys harvest coconuts. Back in town, shop for Thai silk, elegant resort clothes and handicrafts. Don't leave the island without sampling the spicy local fare, which will pleasantly jolt your taste buds.

Explore a compact, fascinating city-state that's truly global. A onetime British trading post, its diverse past is reflected everywhere, from its old Chinese quarter and colourful Hindu temples to its modern skyscrapers and common language, English. Take a short cruise along the Singapore River or a pedicab ride through town, or enjoy the quiet at the National Orchid Garden. Interested in Asian medicine? A special medicinal restaurant can prescribe just the menu to help you feel your best.