Asia
Asia is a land of unique contrasts: cosmopolitan cities and untouched rural villages; ancient traditions and ultra-modern industries; colonial influences with a blend of Buddhism; and cutting-edge skyscrapers and ancient temples. A visit to any of these diverse features of Asia promises to be a deeply enriching experience.
To find out how you can design a unique trip to Asia, Bob will be happy to share his personal experiences to help you create one all your own. Contact us for more information »
China
China offers a unique mix of modern-day cosmopolitan cities and long-standing traditional life. It’s a journey that lets you marvel at the world-class architecture of Hong Kong and an ancient man-made structure viewable from outer space: The Great Wall.
What Can I Do?
- Ride to the top of Victoria Peak for a glorious view of Hong Kong
- Travel to the scenic gorges of the Yangzi River
- Visit Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City in Beijing
- Hike along the Great Wall
- View the Terra Cotta Warriors of Xian
- See the Longmen Grottoes with their Buddhist carvings
- Visit the fifth-century Shao Lin Monastery, famous for its martial arts training
Vietnam
An interesting mix of French colonial character and centuries of Buddhist influence give Vietnam a unique appeal. Enjoy the bustling, rapidly changing cities or sneak out to lesser-traveled villages. It’s a destination you won’t forget.
What Can I Do?
- Visit Ho Chi Minh City, a place that still reflects its French colonial influences
- Wander through awe-inspiring mountain scenery of terraced rice fields, steep mountains and rolling rivers
- Visit the bustling political center of Hanoi
- Relax on Phu Quoc Island
Thailand
We’re not sure if Thailand can best be remembered for its warm and inviting hospitality, its crystalline waters lapping up against stunning white beaches, or the laid-back vibe that seems to permeate the entire country, but we do know that a trip there will not only reward your wallet but also provide you with access to some of the most beautiful landscapes, temples and traditions in all of Asia.
What Can I Do?
- Visit beautiful temples and stunning, scenic landscapes
- Explore ancient cities by rickshaw
- Shop in the famous Night Markets
- Ride elephants in Chiang Mai
- Weave through Bangkok, “the Venice of the East,” on its many klongs (canals)
- Relax on the white sandy beaches of Phuket
Japan
The “Land of the Rising Sun” has much to offer travelers. From the modern day architecture of Tokyo to the feudal-era castles throughout the countryside, the history and mystique of Japan are yours to discover.
What Can I Do?
- Visit venerable Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines and museums housing samurai swords and intricately detailed ceramics
- Observe feudal-era castles rising from their massive stone foundations
- Walk through beautiful contemplative gardens
- Tour culturally rich Tokyo
- Visit the old post towns of Tsumago and Magome on the ancient Nakasendo Road
- Ride the train through Japan’s Alps to Takayama, known as “Little Kyoto”
- Drive to the hidden hamlets of Gokayama and Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its thatched-roof houses
- Walk the tree-lined path to Kamakura’s Great Buddha and stroll the beautiful gardens of the Hase Kannon Temple
- Take the Komagataki Ropeway to view iconic Fuji
Myanmar
Despite its complicated political situation, Myanmar promises to offer one of the most authentic experiences in all of Asia. You won’t find the modern day skyscrapers of Hong Kong. Instead you’ll discover a country that has remained virtually unchanged and closely attached to its rich Buddhist history for centuries.
What Can I Do?
- Watch the sun set on eight tons of gold covering the Shwedagon Pagoda, more than 2,500 years old
- Cruise down the Ayeyarwady River to Bagan, viewing temples and monasteries in Sagaing and the river plains along the way
- Trek through the mountains in search of the elusive black orchid
- Cruise by long-tail boat to visit the village of Machanbaw
- Go river kayaking
- Search for gems, jade and clothing on a shopping excursion
- Bike through the countryside, stroll through beautiful gardens and take in the scenery in the pristine Inle Lake region
