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Asia The allure of Asia is timeless and irresistible! You'll find lands of great history, exotic and ancient cultures, fascinating and charming people, and breathtaking landscapes when you travel to Asia.

Travel to Asia

Yearning for an experience of the unusual, seeking insights into the mysteries of the Far East, and aspiring to memories of unforgettable sights, modern travelers now follow in the footsteps of the explorers of old as they journey to the exotic lands of Asia.

Visit the Far East today and you'll be among the relative few who have savored its delights...magnificent, centuries-old historic sights and cultures steeped in ancient traditions...glittering, golden spires and the tinkling of temple bells...diverse panoramas of breathtaking natural beauty...tantalizing aromas and sumptuous cuisine...and everywhere a gracious, multi-cultural people whose hospitality charms you and inspires you to return again and again.

This is the Asia that Voyager Travel invites you to experience. A magical land of incredible history and diversity, and enough intrigue to keep even the most experienced traveler seeking out new places and new adventures.

Abu Dhabi UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The capital of the United Arab Emirates is Abu Dhabi. It is the headquarters for the president of the state, the cabinet, and most of the ministries, the Federal institutions, foreign embassies, Broadcast TV, Mina (Port) Zayed, Abu Dhabi Airport and most of the oil companies, establishments and commercial markets

ABU DHABI

Abu Dhabi, the thriving, exciting metropolitan capital of the United Arab Emirates beckons visitors into its melting pot of international cultures, styles and traditions. Here, contemporary styles successfully combine with traditional Arab values in a curious harmony that is reflected in the variety of sights and experiences this interesting city has to offer.

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates, and lies mainly on an island just off the coast around 100 km south of Dubai. Although not as cosmopolitan or developed as a tourist destination, as its neighbour to the North, Abu Dhabi is still a fascinating place to visit. Known as the "Garden City of the Gulf" Abu Dhabi has many mosques, parkland and palm trees.

The Skyscrapers of the city centre gleam above the streets, and reflect a very modern, clean city which is easy to get around, and pleasant. There are a couple of old souks to explore, in particular the Old Souk in the North West of the city where you can barter over pretty much anything that you fancy buying. With so many glitzy malls around the city, it may be wise to pay the old market a visit before they build over it. But there is more to Abu Dhabi.

Inland lies the ancient oasis city of Al Ain, while in the south-west you can explore the high dunes of the Arjan area, harbouring some of the most dramatic desert scenery in all Arabia.

A BRIEF HISTORY

The area of present-day Abu Dhabi was settled as far back as the 3rd millennium B.C. and its early history fits the nomadic, herding and fishing pattern typical of the broader region.

Modern Abu Dhabi traces its origins to the rise of an important tribal confederation the Bani Yas in the late 18th Century, who also assumed control of Dubai. In the 19th Century, the Dubai and Abu Dhabi branches parted ways. Sheikh Shakhbut granted Petroleum concessions, and oil was first found in 1958.

After the Emirates gained independence in 1971, oil wealth continued to flow to the area and traditional mud-brick huts were rapidly replaced with banks, boutiques and gleaming towers.

Bhutan Tourism in Bhutan was privatised by the Royal Government of Bhutan in 1991 which adheres strongly to a policy of low volume, high value tourism. The tourism industry in Bhutan is founded on the principle of sustainability, meaning that tourism must be environmentally and ecologically friendly, socially and culturally acceptable and economically viable. The number of tourists visiting Bhutan is regulated to a manageable level because of the lack of infrastructure.

The Royal Government of Bhutan recognizes that tourism is a world-wide phenomenon and an important means of achieving socioeconomic development particularly for developing countries like Bhutan. It also recognizes that tourism, in affording the opportunity to travel, can help in promoting understanding among peoples and building closer ties of friendship based on appreciation and respect for different cultures and lifestyles.

Towards achieving this objective, the Royal Government, since inception of tourism in the year 1974, has adopted a very cautious approach to growth and development of the tourism industry in Bhutan. Landlocked Bhutan is roughly the size of Switzerland. It is bounded on the north and northwest by Tibet, with India nudging its remaining borders. Virtually the entire country is mountainous, peaking at the 7554m (24,777ft). North to south it features three geographic regions; the high Himalayas of the north, the hills and valleys of the centre, and the foothills and plains of the south. Its great rivers helped sculpt its geography and their enormous potential for hydropower has helped shape the economy.

Thanks to centuries of isolationism, its small population and topographical extremes, Bhutan's ecosystem is virtually intact, and boasts the most varied habitats and a rich array of animal and plant species. Under Bhutanese law, 60% of the kingdom will remain forested for all time. There is currently a remarkable 72% forest cover and an astonishing array of plants; more than 5500 species, including over 300 medicinal strains. There are 165 species of mammals, including many rare and endangered animals such as the golden langur, snow leopard and red panda. So far, 770 species of birds have been recorded, including the rare and endangered black-necked crane.

Just over a quarter of the kingdom is in protected areas, all of which encompass inhabited regions. A progressive integrated conservation and development program reconciles the needs of the community with environmental protection, the foundation of Bhutan's entire economic ethos. National parks sustain important ecosystems and have not been developed as tourist attractions. In many cases you won't even be aware that you are entering or leaving a protected area.

Four or Eight Day Tours Available

Cambodia Even the shortest visit to Cambodia is a window into a vibrant ancient culture and a chance to meet with very kind and resilient people. What brings so many to this Buddhist land of smiles is Angkor Wat, the ancient capital and one of the man-made wonders of the world. The temple complex at Angkor is stunning, a monumental Hindu/Buddhist temple compound of behemoth block temples, towering spires, giant carved faces, and ornate bas reliefs. It's a pilgrimage point for temple aficionados and a place of spiritual significance to many -- seeing Angkor is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

China With a landmass of almost 4 million sq. miles, plus a further 2 million sq. miles of water, no other single country can even come close to offering such a vast choice of destinations as the unimaginable vastness that is currently known as China.

Known in the region as the "City of Merchants", Dubai has for generations welcomed seafarers and traders crossing the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf to its shores. You can discover this most vibrant of cities, where the best of the cosmopolitan, avant-garde architecture and the highest standards of service blend harmoniously with the mystique and culture of Arabia, to make a destination that is, quite simply, unique.

Hong Kong One of the most striking characteristics of Hong Kong is an interweaving of seeming contradictions and the interplay of the exotic and the technically advanced. There are as many skyscrapers here as you're likely to see anywhere, but they're built with bamboo scaffolding. Historic trams rumble through Central, while below ground is one of the most efficient subways in the world, complete with the world's first "contactless" tickets, cards that are waved over a scanner. The city has what are arguably some of the best and most sophisticated restaurants in the world, but it also has dai pai dong, street-side food stalls. Hong Kong is home to one of the world's largest shopping malls, but there are also lively street markets virtually everywhere.

India Home to the world's most spectacular medieval architecture, sacred rivers, religious rituals, aristocratic tigers, jewel-encrusted tombs, ancient traditions there is so much to take in. Whether you're here to soak up India's spirituality, chill out on the beaches, rejuvenate at an Ayurvedic spa, or live like a king in the land of princes, you will find an experience to match your desires in India.
With a mosaic of languages, dialects, religions, races, customs, and cuisines, India and its people cannot be defined, labeled, or pigeonholed -- only experienced. Whether you're planning your trip to do a spiritual pilgrimage, view (or shop for) its myriad treasures, live like royalty in medieval palaces, unwind on unspoiled beaches, or simply indulge in the most holistic spa therapies known to man, India will leave an indelible impression on you.

Indonesia (Bali) Tiny Bali has great topographical variety. Located in the center of Indonesia's vast archipelago, the island has an area of 5,620 sq. km (roughly 2,192 sq. miles), only the size of a large metropolis. The land is divided in half east to west by a volcanic mountain chain and is scored lengthwise by deep river gorges. White-sand beaches line the coast to the east, as well as near Kuta in the most populated area of wider lowlands to the south. Active volcanoes dot the island, including Gunung Agung, a dynamic peak and a power point of Balinese culture and belief. Central Ubud is one of the more beautiful spots, with mountainous scenery, lush vegetation, and Bali's famed terraced rice farms. The far west is the least developed area of the island, with mountainous terrain mostly given over to national park land.

BALI is certain to enchant you with its ancient temples, terraced countryside, towering volcanoes and pristine beaches. The gentle Balinese people infuse their daily lives with unique Hindu spirituality and keep their centuries-old artistic traditions alive.

Japan Japan's cities may look Westernized -- often disappointingly so -- but beyond first impressions there's very little about this Asian nation that could lull you into thinking you're in the West. Yet Japan also differs greatly from its Asian neighbors. Although it borrowed much from China in its early development, including Buddhism and its writing system, the island nation remained steadfastly isolated from the rest of the world throughout much of its history, usually deliberately so. Until World War II, it had never been successfully invaded; and for more than 200 years, while the West was stirring with the awakenings of democracy and industrialism, Japan completely closed its doors to the outside world and remained a tightly structured feudalistic society with almost no outside influence.
It's been just a little more than 136 years since the Japanese opened their doors, embracing Western products wholeheartedly, yet at the same time altering them and making them unquestionably their own. Thus, that modern high-rise may look Western, but it may contain a rustic-looking restaurant with open charcoal grills, corporate offices, a pachinko parlor, a high-tech bar with views of Mount Fuji, a McDonald's, an acupuncture clinic, a computer showroom, and a rooftop shrine. Your pizza may come with octopus and beer gardens are likely to be fitted with Astroturf. City police patrol on bicycles, garbage collectors attack their job with the vigor of a well-trained army, and white-gloved elevator operators, working in some of the world's swankiest department stores, bow and thank you as you exit.
Because of this unique synthesis of East and West into a culture that is distinctly Japanese, Japan is not easy for Westerners to comprehend. Discovering it is like peeling an onion -- you uncover one layer only to discover more layers underneath. Thus, no matter how long you stay in Japan, you never stop learning something new about it.

Laos Laos is an enchanting land that demands that you slow your pace to match its own, and even the shortest visit might add tranquility to your travels.
Sixty percent of Lao people are practicing Buddhists, and that fact colors every facet of life. Temples and stupas dominate the architecture of even the smallest village, and you're sure to spot groups of monks in colorful robes -- on their early morning pintabat, or alms rounds, especially in Luang Prabang. Buddhist acceptance and compassion play an important part in Lao culture; arguments are the exception and the sangha, or monastic community, fosters a strict moral code. Even the shortest visit to Laos offers unique insight into Buddhist culture.
Laos has a diverse geography and population. The north is a rich tapestry of ethnic minorities, and Lao people themselves support cultural and ethnic enclaves that differ from region to region, hill to plain. The mighty Mekong River and its tributaries form the spine of the land, and the country boasts vast tracts of deep jungle, open farmland, and even tropical river islands. Remnants of ancient civilizations are here as well, including the mysterious Plain of Jars in Phonsavan and Wat Phu, a Hindu site that predates Angkor Wat near the Cambodia border. Luang Prabang, the biggest burg up north, is a quiet city of colonial French architecture and was named a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Korea Often referred to as the "Land of the Morning Calm", Korea has a population of 48.50 million and a total land area of 99,678 square kilometers. Mountains cover 70% of Korea's land mass, making it one of the most mountainous regions in the world. The lifting and folding of Korea's granite and limestone base creates breathtaking landscapes of scenic hills and valleys. Years of rapid economic development has propelled the country to becoming the world's 12th largest trading partner. Korea's industrial base shifted from agriculture to manufacturing and is now shifting to services. It is now a global force in a number of significant industries, including automobiles, petrochemicals, electronics, shipbuilding, textiles, and steel.

SEOUL Located in the mid-western part of Korea, the region of Gyeonggi-do embraces Seoul and Incheon. It offers a variety of beautiful tourist destinations and cultural facilities along the Hangang River. Gyeonggi-do is also proud to embody traditional Korean culture with such places as the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, the Korean Folk Village and Icheon, which is famous for ceramics. Moreover, visitors can also visit Everland, a huge and exciting amusement park. Seoul is the capital of Korea with over 600 years of history. It is the heart of Korea's culture and education as well as politics and economics. Seoul is unique in that historical sites such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and modern cultural facilities coexist in harmony. Seoul is a world-class city with numerous amenities and shopping districts such as Myeong-dong and Apgujeong.

Malaysia For those who want to find a nice little corner of paradise, Malaysia could be your answer. If Malaysia can trace its success to one element, it would be geographic location. Placed strategically at a major crossroads between the Eastern and Western worlds and enforced by the northeast and southwest monsoons, Malaysia (formerly known as Malaya) was the ideal center for East-West trade activities. The character of the indigenous Malays is credited to their relationship with the sea, while centuries of outside influences shaped their culture.

Maldives Rising from the deep blue of the Indian Ocean are more than a thousand islands and thousands more reefs that form the Maldives.

Specks of emerald green enveloped by dazzling turquoise waters like scattered beads in the ocean; white powdery beaches, tall palms lean on towards the sea, crystalline white sands giving way to crystal clear waters, shades of turquoise blend flawlessly withdeeper hues of blue; pristine coral reefs and some of the most incredible underwater life on our planet.

Southwest of Sri Lanka, on the equator. The 1,190 islands comprising the Maldives rise from the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean, and straddle the equator. The islands are grouped into 26 natural atolls, scattered over an area of 90,000 square kilometers.

The Maldives has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year round and a great deal of sunshine. This coral archipelago is home to some of the most diverse marine fauna and flora in the world.Tens of thousands of reefs, a thousand recorded species of fish,over two hundred species of coral and hundreds more species of other marine life; no wonder many see this as one of the greatest dive destinations on earth.

Myanmar (Burma) Formerly known as Burma, Myanmar is one of the poorest but at the same time one of the most captivating countries of Southeast Asia, and these two seemingly opposed attributes are in fact connected.
Traveling to Myanmar involves not only a journey into a different geographic region, but also an excursion into another time. How far back into the past one travels depends on the destinations chosen within the country. For instance, if you compare the Burmese capital Yangon to the Thai capital Bangkok, you may be taken back 30 or 40 years into the past. However, a visit to the country's hill tribes can equal a trip into the middle ages!
In the native tongue, Burma's name has always been Myanmar. In 1989, the Burmese military government issued a decree that the country be known by the name of Myanmar among the international community. But however you refer to this fascinating destination, you'll be treated to a step back in time and a treasure-trove of Burmese architecture.

Philippines The Philippines is a big country in a small package. It is the second largest archipelago in the world, with 7,107 islands (sixty percent of them uninhabited) and 36,000 miles of coastline, all in a land mass no bigger than Arizona. Filipinos refer to this massive island chain as their string of pearls, and your biggest problem is likely to be deciding which of the pearls to see first!
From the cosmopolitan capital city of Manila, abounding in both modern and historic buildings, to beautiful island resorts, a Philippines vacation package offers an uplifting adventure where the spirit of fiesta predominates. Malay, Chinese, Hispanic and American elements blend to create a cultural identity which is uniquely Manileno.
Visit Manila and you'll find some of the ritziest shopping malls and most spectacular nightlife in Asia. JM Nakpil Street in Malate on a Friday night is a sight to behold. Beatnik poets mingle with film stars, models and other colorful characters to create a good-natured outdoor scene that makes nightlife in other cities look tame by comparison.

Singapore Singapore thrives on a history that has absorbed a multitude of foreign elements over almost 2 centuries, melding them into a unique modern national identity. Beginning with the landing of Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819, add to the mix the original Malay inhabitants, immigrating waves of Chinese traders and workers, Indian businessmen and laborers, Arab merchants, British colonials, European adventure-seekers, and an assortment of Southeast Asian settlers -- this tiny island rose from the ingenuity of those who worked and lived together here. Today, all recognize each group's importance to the heritage of the land, each adding unique contributions to a culture and identity we know as Singaporean.

Taiwan Shaped roughly like a tobacco leaf, 240 miles long and 85 miles wide, Taiwan is located 100 miles off the coast of southeastern China and is approximately the same size as Holland.
The Portuguese named it La Isla Formosa ("beautiful island") during their occupation in 1517 and for very good reasons. The east coast has magnificent cliffs that dive straight into the ocean and mountains, many over 10,000 feet high, cover two-thirds of the island. The Jade Mountain (Yushan), for example, is the tallest peak in northeast Asia at 13,114 feet; the climate at sea level is subtropical.
Taiwan has been loosely affiliated with China since the 13th century and independent since 1945. Today, Taiwan is a living showcase of Chinese culture and tradition. The best display of China's past is seen in The National Palace Museum in Taipei, reputed to be the world's greatest repository of Chinese art.
Another of Taipei's attractions is the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial, one of the most breathtaking sites in Taiwan. Jade markets, tea shops, parks and more museums also await you.

Thailand In Thailand you'll find adventure of all kinds -- extreme sports on land and sea, trekking to tribal villages and rugged roads to border-towns and outposts.
Traffic and tranquillity, beaches and bargains, rural roads, ancient palaces and stunning temples: Thailand has much to offer anyone from the casual visitor in search of affordable luxury to the rugged backpacker hoping to get off the track. What brings visitors back time and again is the allure of the ephemeral: seemingly spontaneous festivals, chance meetings and whimsical moments in an unpredictable land of ancient culture and elusive wisdom. The kingdoms most notable sites are opulent royal palaces, ancient ruins, and peak roofed temples housing serene images of the Buddha, places where the past comes alive in architecture and artwork as well as beliefs and practices. In bustling Bangkok, you'll find simple canal and riverside communities, a sprawling Chinatown, an ultra-modern cityscape and giant outdoor markets that are a heady mix of sights, sounds, and smells. Beyond urban Thailand are flat plains carpeted with rice paddies and dotted with tiny villages, mountains of luxuriant teak forests where elephants once roamed wild, long stretches of white sand beach and acres of coconut palms and rubber plantations. Rural life is languid and hospitable and behind every warm Thai smile there is true kindness and a certain wisdom of the ancients.

Vietnam Vietnam offers adventures and curiosities around every corner. Be ready for a wild ride in a colorful and chaotic land -- along the way, you'll discover tranquil places and opportunities to connect with local people. Vietnamese are careful to distinguish their cultural traditions from those of China. Vietnam, in fact, boasts its own cultural landscape -- one that's as varied and colorful as Vietnam's topography -- which includes distinct, very sophisticated traditions of painting (particularly lacquer painting), crafts such as weaving and woodcarving, theater, opera, dance, and water puppetry.

Abu Dhabi UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

ABU DHABI

A BRIEF HISTORY

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Abu Dhabi UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

ABU DHABI

A BRIEF HISTORY

General Information:

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Air: Include Airfare?