Asia: Thailand & Vietnam

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 fulfiled.

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.

Chân Mây, located in central Vietnam near Huế, is a serene coastal town known for its long sandy beaches and clear waters. It sits at the entrance to the scenic Lăng Cô Bay and is a gateway to the Hải Vân Pass, a famous mountain coastal route. The area enjoys a tropical climate, with warm, humid weather year-round and a rainy season from May to October. Nearby attractions include historic Huế, with its imperial citadel, and the Cham Islands for snorkelling and diving. Chân Mây combines natural beauty, cultural heritage and a quieter, less crowded experience compared to Vietnam's major beach destinations.

Cam Ranh is a serene coastal escape, with its crystal-clear waters and powdery white beaches and an unmistakable laid-back vibe. Explore the stunning Bãi Dài (Long Beach), perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Take a boat to the islands of Bình Lập or Bình Hưng for snorkelling adventures in turquoise bays. Indulge in fresh, locally caught seafood - especially the famous Cam Ranh lobster. Discover hidden temples, quiet fishing villages and lush hillsides ideal for peaceful hikes. With luxury resorts and eco-retreats dotting the coast, coupled with the perfect blend of comfort and nature, a visit here will calm the mind and soothe the soul. What's more, with fewer crowds than nearby Nha Trang, Cam Ranh is Vietnam's best-kept beachside secret!

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.

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.

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. Interact with elephants and see these clever animals show their work skills. 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.