Asia’s mysteries go back to the beginning of time, and the many different cultures and natural wonders have the magical ability to take the traveller to another world and another era. When the ancient is blended with the contemporary, the result is the spectacular, high-tech cities throughout Asia that are constant contradictions. Melbourne to Hong Kong flights are a good way to begin any journey through Asia.
1. Siem Reap, Cambodia is the starting point for a fascinating trip back over 900 years. Angkor Wat is the centre piece in the jungle where there are temples, statues and monuments gradually being reclaimed by nature. After trekking though the jungle and experiencing the ancient wonders, Siem Reap is a welcoming city with a bustling Old Market that offers tasty street food, fantastic shopping and excellent accommodation at very affordable prices.
2. Hong Kong, China is one of those cities that have everything from the latest electronics and haut couture to the smallest street shrines fragrant with incense. Melbourne to Hong Kong flights are inexpensive and great value for money. From the top of Victoria Peak to the outlying islands with only small monasteries, there is a lot to do in the city. The ferry ride through the harbour is cheap and gives an awesome perspective of the vastness of this lively city. To top it all, there is Hong Kong Disneyland, which is a dream come true for many children.
3. Halong Bay, Vietnam in the Gulf of Tonkin is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most magnificent natural wonders in the world. It has beautiful beaches and clear water along with limestone caves, each with an ancient story. The 3,000 limestone peaks that jut straight out of the water and tower over everything are the sight that takes the breath away.
4. The Great Wall of China is a must-see for anyone visiting Asia. Built in the 5th century BC, it still stands over 4,000 miles, though broken in some places. The only man-made object visible from space, it is a testament to the builders of the past. It is even possible to trek the whole length of the Wall with permission.
5. The Taj Mahal, Agra, India is another amazing monument to the art and craft of builders of the past. A wonder of the modern world, it was completed in 1653 as a mausoleum to the third wife of Emperor Shah Jahan. Today, the Taj Mahal is almost a cliché as a symbol of beauty and love, but the sheer grandeur and amazing detail of the designs can only be appreciated in person.
6. Bangkok, Thailand is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, and there is good reason for it. With the floating markets, excellent shopping and some of the best food in the world, Bangkok also has magnificent architecture, temples and ancient Buddhist ruins throughout the country. Thailand also has tiny islands with white sand, warm turquoise water and inexpensive diving for isolated romantic getaways. Krabi Province has hot waterfalls and warm ponds in the rugged forests where nature lovers come for a break from the city.
7. Bali, Indonesia offers the pristine sandy beaches as well as rugged mountain terrain. Previously, mainly frequented by surfers, Bali has a lot more to offer and is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. Ubud, in central Bali, is a town where arts and culture flourish. Visitors enjoy the Monkey Forest, Elephant Caves, Balinese dance performances and the many Hindu temples in the area. Kintamani is one hour north of Ubud and is a good place for a break from the frantic nightlife of the cities and busy beaches. It has an active volcano, Mount Batur, with the highest temple in Bali clinging to the side. This is the place for peace and tranquillity amidst the great natural beauty. Visitors rest near the natural hot springs and cool Lake Batur.