Choose from 1,872 Fun Things to Do in Asia
ShowingFilter 1801-1820 of 1872 listings.
Maritime Museum
Macau's heritage has long been linked with the sea, and the Maritime Museum celebrates the connection while tracing the maritime histories of Portugal, China and Macau. Fittingly enough, Macau's oldest museum opened in 1987 near the spot believed to be where the first Portuguese traders came ashore.
Visitors to the Maritime Museum's exhibits begin with an introduction to A-Ma, the goddess of the sea and protector of seafarers who gave Macau its name. Other exhibits delve into fishing techniques, model boats, navigational instruments, a collection of maps and a model of the Guia Lighthouse, the oldest on the South China coast.
Visitors will also find four aquariums, each representing a different aquatic environment: a riverbed, deep water, harbor and coral reef. A few outdoor exhibits include a real dragon boat similar to the ones raced during the annual Dragon Boat Festival.
Practical Info
The Maritime Museum is closed on Tuesdays. Children under 10 get free admission.
Address: 1 Largo do Pagode da Barra, Macau, China
Hours: Wed-Mon 10am-6pm
Admission: Standard: MOP$10, Discount: MOP$5, Child Under 10 Free
From $ 279
Macau Science Center
Housed in a silver cone-shaped building designed by architect I.M. Pei, the Macau Science Center is a science-themed museum and learning center. With exhibitions, films, live demonstrations, and interactive experiences across different science and technology themes, the museum offers a fun learning environment for the whole family.
The Basics
The Macau Science Center comprises an exhibition center, planetarium, and a convention center in an area of 248,000 square feet (23,000 square meters). The 5-story exhibition center is the highlight; it features 14 galleries covering themes such as the environment, food science, robotics, and more. The planetarium shows both 2D and 3D films, while the convention center is used for lectures and performances.
Prebook your tickets for convenience and to guarantee admission, or visit on a hop-on hop-off bus for the most flexibility.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Science Center is a great destination for families with children.
- Large items and luggage are not permitted inside; free lockers and storage are available.
- The center is wheelchair and stroller accessible; wheelchairs are available at the ticketing center.
- Free Wi-Fi is available.
- A cafe and fast-food restaurant are on-site.
How to Get There
The Macau Science Center is located on Avenida Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, near Macau Outer Ferry Terminal and the Cultural Center. It's easiest to take a taxi directly there, or take bus Nos. 3A, 8, 10A, or 12.
When to Get There
The Science Center is closed Thursday, public holidays and New Year's Eve, and for the months of July and August. Otherwise, it is open daily, and free admission is offered on May 1 and 18, October 1, and December 19 and 20. Ticket sales close 30 minutes before closing time.
Planetarium
The planetarium was recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the highest-resolution 3D planetarium in the world. The tilted semidome screen spans nearly 49 feet (15 meters) and can also show Digital Dome films. Films are shown in 2D and 3D, and audio narrations are offered in Mandarin, Cantonese, English, and Portuguese.
Address: Avenida Drive, Macau, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 20
Macau Museum
Set within the compound of the old Monte Fort, the Macau Museum was opened in 1998 as a means of educating visitors on the fascinating history of the Special Administrative Region of Macau. As Macau is one of the first areas in the Far East to experience a blend of European and Asian rule, the museum chronicles the curiosities and struggles of this tiny peninsula attempting to live under two distinct governments and cultures.
The first two floors of the museum are located in the subterranean tunnels of the old Monte Fort and primarily highlight Macau's cultural and political past. First floor exhibits known as the "Genesis of Macau" provide visitors with an understanding of the history of the peninsula and focus on the fusion and friction of the Portuguese and Chinese cultures. The museum's second floor shifts more towards the everyday lives of the people of Macau with exhibits covering daily customs, artwork, and traditional Macanese festivals. There is even a fully reconstructed Macanese street which depicts daily life in old Macau, replete with Chinese storefronts and colonial European architecture. Finally, on the third floor, with a view stretching out towards Macau's modern skyline, visitors can peruse the exhibits which point towards Macau's contemporary present and the prospects for a prosperous future.
The largest museum in Macau and undoubtedly the most popular, the Macau Museum is an easy place for history buffs and inquisitive visitors to lose themselves in the storied history of one of colonialism's longest lasting endeavors.
The first two floors of the museum are located in the subterranean tunnels of the old Monte Fort and primarily highlight Macau's cultural and political past. First floor exhibits known as the "Genesis of Macau" provide visitors with an understanding of the history of the peninsula and focus on the fusion and friction of the Portuguese and Chinese cultures. The museum's second floor shifts more towards the everyday lives of the people of Macau with exhibits covering daily customs, artwork, and traditional Macanese festivals. There is even a fully reconstructed Macanese street which depicts daily life in old Macau, replete with Chinese storefronts and colonial European architecture. Finally, on the third floor, with a view stretching out towards Macau's modern skyline, visitors can peruse the exhibits which point towards Macau's contemporary present and the prospects for a prosperous future.
The largest museum in Macau and undoubtedly the most popular, the Macau Museum is an easy place for history buffs and inquisitive visitors to lose themselves in the storied history of one of colonialism's longest lasting endeavors.
Address: No. 112 Praceta do Museu de Macau, Macau, China
Hours: Open Tues - Sun, 10am - 6pm
Admission: MOP 15 for Adults, MOP 8 for seniors and children 5-10, free for children under 5
From $ 279
Kun Iam Temple
One of the three ancient temples of Macau, Kun Iam Temple was founded during the 13th century, although the present structures were built in 1627. Dedicated to Kun Iam, the Chinese representation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Mercy, this Buddhist temple is one of the largest and most important in Macau.
The Basics
The temple features three main halls, which are dedicated to Shakyamuni (Gautama Buddha), the Buddha of Longevity, and Kun Iam, and separated by open courtyards. Note the lavish decorations, porcelain figurines decorating the roofs, and the 300-year-old giant bell. In the Namesake Hall, don't miss the statue of Kun Iam, dressed in embroidered silk and wearing a crown that is replaced every year. She is surrounded by 18 arhats, one of which is said to represent Marco Polo, who studied Buddhism at the temple. Be sure to visit the beautiful terraced gardens in back of the temple.
A number of tours, including day trips from Hong Kong and Shenzhen, feature a stop at Kun Iam Temple, as well as other top Macau attractions that may include A-Ma Temple, the Ruins of St. Paul, and Macau Tower or a Macau casino.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This is a must-visit for those with an interest in history, architecture, or religion.
- This is a place of worship, so visitors should be respectful and quiet.
- There are a number of funeral rooms within the temple; please be quiet and do not take photos if a funeral is taking place.
- The temple is free to enter, but donations are accepted.
- Day trips from Hong Kong can last upward of 11 hours.
How to Get There
Kun Iam Temple is located on Avenida do Coronel Mesquita. It's easiest to take a taxi to the temple. You can also take bus 12, 17, 18B, 18, 23, or 28C to the temple.
When to Get There
The temple is open Monday through Saturday. It is at its most festive during the Lunar New Year and during celebrations for the birthday of Kun Iam, on the 19th day of the second, sixth, ninth and 11th lunar months.
Terraced Gardens
In the terraced garden behind the temple, the first Sino-American treaty was signed in 1844, and the round granite table of the signing still stands. There are also four intertwined trees, known as Lovers Trees; legend has it they grew from the burial site of star-crossed lovers who committed suicide because they could not marry. Elsewhere in the garden, you'll find fountains, groves of bamboo, and shrines to departed priests.
Address: Macau, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 144
Kun Iam Statue
Behind all the flashing neon lights and over-the-top extravagance of Macau's casino scene and the dominant Portuguese influence is a subtle yet rich Buddhist heritage. This religious heritage is evident in the various monuments to Kun Iam, Goddess of Mercy, located throughout the area. Once such monument is the Kun Iam Statue, notable as being one of the only statues on the planet where the goddess faces inland rather than toward the sea.
Perched atop a lotus-shaped dome, the bronze likeness of Kun Iam stands 66 feet (20 meters) tall. The dome beneath her feet houses the Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre, a small museum where visitors can read up on Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism.
Practical Info
The Kun Iam Statue is located about a 15-minute walk from the MGM Grand along the waterfront separating Macau City from the Cotai Strip. Entrance is free.
Address: Kun Iam Temple, Macau, China
From $ 72
Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts in Ho Chi Minh City is housed in a French colonial-era building that was once the mansion home of Chinese-born Mr. Hoa, the wealthiest man in Saigon at the time. As well as displaying fascinating modern art and historical pieces dating back to the 4th century, the building itself is of interest, with period details such as elaborate tiles, stained-glass windows, and even a working antique lift.
The museum is arranged across three levels and features a varied collection, including sculptures and ceramics, plus oil, silk, lacquer, and traditional woodcut paintings incorporating different styles. There is also a collection of ancient Buddhist and Hindu wood and stone figures, with larger statues scattered around the grounds and in the museum's central courtyard (accessed via the rear of the building).
Along with contemporary art, the museum features archaeological exhibits from across Asia, dating back to the Cham and Khmer eras. There is also a museum shop, with a good selection of prints available for sale.
Practical Info
The Museum of Fine Arts is located at Pho Duc Chinh Street, right near the Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City's District 1.
Address: 97A Pho Duc Chinh Street, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Hours: Open Tues-Sun 9am-5pm
Admission: 10,000 dong
From $ 39
Koh Kradan
Just south of bustling Ko Lanta is the picturesque Thai island of Koh Kradan. Most of the island is a national park"”perfect for hikers"”and the 1.25 miles (2 kilometers) of sandy beach offer visitors a serene place to relax. Plus Koh Kradan is surrounded by crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, great for divers and snorkelers.
The Basics
The remote island of Koh Kradan is part of the Hat Chao Mai National Park, controlled by the Thai government. The island is ideal for visitors who want to soak up the sun on coral sand beaches, and enjoy the beautiful fauna and flora of the island and surrounding waters. Most full-day tours to Koh Kradan leave from Ko Lanta and also visit the nearby islands of Koh Chuak, Koh Mook, and Koh Ngai.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Koh Kradan is a must-visit for nature lovers and underwater wildlife enthusiasts.
- Tours typically include hotel pickup and drop-off on Ko Lanta as well as lunch and snorkeling gear.
- There are no ATMs or medical clinics on remote Koh Kradan.
- There are fewer than 10 resorts on the island, ranging from budget rooms to luxury bungalows.
How to Get There
Koh Kradan is located off the western coast of Thailand in the Trang province. The only way to access Koh Kradan is by boat. From the mainland, take the ferry from Trang's Hat Yao Pier to Koh Kradan. Ferry service also operates from Koh Lanta to Koh Kradan, as do full-day tours.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Koh Kradan"”and Thailand in general"”is during the dry season, November to April. During the rainy season, from May to October, most of the resorts on Koh Kradan and the other Trang islands are closed and tourism activity is limited.
Underwater Weddings
The opportunity to get married underwater is a rare one, but every year Koh Kradan hosts subaqueous wedding ceremonies around Valentine's Day. Scuba diving couples are whisked out to sea, partake in a traditional blessing ceremony, and then head under the surface with a representative of the district office to tie the knot. Only qualified divers may take part in the underwater weddings, and newlyweds leave with a waterproof marriage certificate.
Address: Thailand
From $ 47
Menjangan Island
Set just off the Bali coast in West Bali National Park, Menjangan Island (Pulau Menjangan, or Deer Island) is a white-sand gem. The island itself has no facilities beyond a simple bathroom and some open-air bale shelters, but offshore its sheer reef walls decked in undulating sea fans and lush soft corals are a magnet for marine life, divers, and snorkelers.
The Basics
Diving is Menjangan Island's major draw. Most visitors come to the island as part of an organized tour with a local dive or snorkeling operator, virtually all of which include equipment and the West Bali National Park entrance fee. Mainland resorts also offer diving options, although budget travelers typically arrange Menjangan scuba trips from the mainland dive town of Pemuteran. Most operators offer trips for both qualified and beginner divers.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Mellow currents and less crowded dive sites make Menjangan one of Bali's top dive destinations.
- Menjangan means "deer" in Indonesian, and there are plenty in the national park.
- It's not possible to overnight on Menjangan Island, so most base themselves either at Menjangan resorts on the mainland or in Pemuteran.
How to Get There
Menjangan Island is in the far northwestern corner of Bali, several hours' drive from Ubud and the south Bali tourist districts. Tours typically depart from the mainland town of Pemuteran and travel around 12 miles (18 kilometers) to the dock at Labuhan Lalang for the 30- to 40-minute crossing to the island. The cluster of resorts on the fringes of the national park can also arrange boats.
When to Get There
With good visibility, warm water, and very little current by Indonesian standards, Menjangan Island is a great year-round dive destination for both beginners and advanced divers. As with other tourist destinations in Bali, it is at its busiest in July and August. The rainy season (roughly October to March) is less noticeable in this part of Bali than elsewhere.
Diving Menjangan Island and Pemuteran
Divers who make the journey out to Menjangan Island from south Bali should spend a couple of days exploring the sites around Menjangan itself and in the mainland dive resort of Pemuteran. Popular sites around Menjangan Island include Eel Garden, home to ribbon eels, and the cavern at Cave Point, but it's hard to go wrong with Menjangan's stunning coral walls. Pemuteran's artificial reef makes a fascinating dive.
Address: Bali, Indonesia
From $ 90
Khlong Saen Saep
Stretching from west to east across Bangkok, Khlong Saen Saeb is a canal that begins in the Old City near the Mahakan Fortress, and runs all the way to Chachoengsao Province. Boat services travel through places like Phayathai, Pratunam, Chidlom, and Thonglor, providing a fast and inexpensive way to visit these central areas while avoiding Bangkok's notorious traffic.
While bordering on dangerously busy during rush hour, taking a Khlong Saen Saep boat outside of these busy times is convenient for shopping and sightseeing, and is especially useful for getting to and from Siam Square and other key places in the city. There are various temples, markets, traditional wooden houses, and ornate bridges along the route, and it is possible to walk or cycle along the banks in many places.
The Khlong Saen Saep boats are known for their haphazard service, and are often even dangerous in terms of boarding and alighting in busy periods. In this sense, they are perhaps not suitable for families with small children. If you're looking to explore the daily life and key sights that teem around Bangkok's canals in a more relaxed manner, there are plenty of canal tours to choose from; set out on bikes along the banks of the waterways, hop onto a rice barge or small teak boat, or get out of the city altogether on a countryside canal adventure.
Practical Info
Tickets for the Khlong Saen Saep boats are purchased onboard, and range from 10 to 20 bahts, depending on the distance. (Try to have small change to make life easier for everyone.) There are two lines serving the route: the western line, terminating at Wat Saket near the Khao San Road, and the eastern line, which finishes at Wat Si Bunrueang.
Did You Know? The 18-kilometer Khlong Saen Saep route is served by 100 boats with 40-50 seats each. The service carries around 60,000 passengers per day.
Address: Khlong Saen Saep, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Weekdays: 5:30am-8:30pm / Weekends: 5:30am-7pm
Admission: 10-20 THB
From $ 83
Little India
Colorful Little India is a three-street community in already eclectic Georgetown that envelops visitors with the sights and sounds of a small street in Mumbai. On Jalan Pasar (Market Street), colorful storefronts scrawled in Brahmi script blare Hindi melodies. The community is of the oldest Indian enclaves in Malaysia and dates to the earliest British settlements of Georgetown in the late 1700s.
Wind through the narrow streets and you'll find sari and cotton clothing shops, wedding florists, Bollywood posters and DVDs, spice merchants, gold jewelers and an abundance of eateries with popular Indian favorites such as roti, briyani rice and tandoori chicken as well as Malaysian Indian fusion cuisine. On nearby Jalan Bandar, the Sri Mahamariammam Temple, built in 1883 in the ornate and towering South Indian style, it is the oldest Hindu temple in Penang. The area really comes alive during Indian holidays such as Deepavali (Diwali) festival of lights each autumn.
Practical Info
Little India is within the Penang Heritage Zone, a UNESCO-designated site, in Georgetown, the capital of Penang, Malaysia. Georgetown is located on the Island of Penang Palau and is connected to the mainland by bridges. Though Little India is not strictly confined, the main streets are Lebuh Chulia, Lebuh Ah Quee and Jalan Pasar. The region is walkable (it's also fun to take a trishaw) and is reachable by bus from other parts of Georgetown"”the nearest stop is outside Opps Yap Temple. The Penang Hop-On Hop-Off Tourist Bus also stops here, as do a number of other Georgetown tours.
Address: Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia
From $ 20
Madame Tussauds Bangkok
Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum is a good time anywhere, but where it is always fun to see the likeness of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, the Bangkok branch also includes sculptures in the shape of some regional favorites.
Meet Burmese opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, the Dalai Lama and Chairman Mao Zedong, among several other current and historical political figures, or if you are an arts and science buff, Albert Einstein, Pablo Picasso and even the father of modern art in Thailand, Silpa Bhirasri, are on display. Among the museums large cache of wax pop stars, take your photo with Michael Jackson, Madonna, Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber or shake hands with sports icons Muhammad Ali, Yao Ming or Serena Williams.
Madame Tussaud's in Bangkok is located on the 6th floor of the recently refurbished Siam Discovery in the heart of town.
Meet Burmese opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, the Dalai Lama and Chairman Mao Zedong, among several other current and historical political figures, or if you are an arts and science buff, Albert Einstein, Pablo Picasso and even the father of modern art in Thailand, Silpa Bhirasri, are on display. Among the museums large cache of wax pop stars, take your photo with Michael Jackson, Madonna, Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber or shake hands with sports icons Muhammad Ali, Yao Ming or Serena Williams.
Madame Tussaud's in Bangkok is located on the 6th floor of the recently refurbished Siam Discovery in the heart of town.
Address: Siam Car Park, Rama I, Pathum Wan, Phathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
From $ 20
Narusawa Ice Cave
The Narusawa Ice Cave is located at the entrance to the Aokigahara Jukai (or Sea of Trees) forest. After being designated by the Ministry of Education as a natural monument in the 1920s, it is now considered a geological wonder, attracting tourists exploring the Five Lakes area at the base of Mount Fuji.
More than 1,100 years ago, a volcano on Mount Fuji erupted and the lava flowed down between ancient volcanoes creating this two-tunnel cave. The cave experiences temperatures of three degrees celsius and is covered with ice all year-round, even at the height of summer.
During April, the cave's icicles have been known to grow up to three meters long and almost half a meter wide. The cave itself is 150 meters in length, although the route down is short, and it will take visitors just a few steps to experience this natural phenomenon's cooler climate.
Practical Info
The Narusawa Ice Cave is approximately 25 minutes by bus from Kawaguchiko Station (Fuji Kyuko line). Helmets are provided at the cave, but sensible shoes with a good grip are recommended as the path and steps are usually wet.
Address: 8533, Minamitsurugun, Narusawa, Yamanashi Prefecture 4010320, Japan
Hours: 9am to 5pm (Shorter hours in winter / longer hours in summer)
Admission: 290 Yen
From $ 163
Lei Yu Mun Fish Market
After the decline of the mines, fishing became Lei Yu Mun's main industry and stilt villages sprung up to house the stock. As trade took off, restaurants appeared, and the Lei Yu Mun fish market became a popular attraction, allowing diners to select their dinner fresh from the stalls, then take it to a local restaurant for an alfresco dining experience.
The Basics
Nestled in the channel separating Kowloon from Hong Kong Island, this sprawling fish market is a popular sight on harbor cruises, when you can glimpse it against a backdrop of a former quarry. For more intimate experience, stroll the now-paved walkways and glimpse the selection of live seafood up close. For an even more immersive experience, though, you can find a fish, choose a restaurant, and sit down to enjoy an authentic Lei Yu Min meal.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It's usual to bargain with vendors, especially if you're buying large quantities.
- If you've supplied the fish yourself, restaurants will only charge preparation costs. Side dishes and accompaniments cost extra.
- Look out for restaurants with a QTS symbol, as these have passed the tourism board's service standards. If you're unsure, ask your market vendor for advice on the best spots nearby.
- This is a must for foodies and anyone interested in Hong Kong's social history.
- Note that the conditions that the fish are kept in can be upsetting to see.
How to Get There
The nearest MTR station is Yau Tong. From there, walk or take the Green Minibus no. 24 to Sam Ka Tsuen Pier.
When to Get There
The market is at its busiest in the evenings or at weekends, so midweek visits during the day are best to avoid the crowds.
Beyond the Market
Lei Yu Mun isn't just a fish market. Build up your appetite on a hike to Devil's Peak, or enjoy a gentle stroll along the pier after satisfying your stomach, with a visit to the Lei Yue Mun Lighthouse, Tin Hau Temple, or the remains of the former quarry.
Address: 6 Lei Yue Mun Path, Hong Kong, China
From $ 43
Monkey Island
Monkey Island (Cat Dua) is accessible only by boat, but travelers who make the effort to get there are rewarded with numerous outdoor adventure possibilities, including access to a private beach. Visitors to the isolated Halong Bay island can spend time sipping coconut water on a white-sand beach; snorkeling or kayaking in the shallow turquoise waters; hiking the well-marked trails to the top of the island, or simply taking in the fresh air and lush island scenery.
While the island is perfect for a day trip, accommodations such as the Monkey Island Resort also exist for travelers who prefer to spend several days enjoying this out-of-the-way place.
Practical Info
As the name suggests, Monkey Island is home to wild long-tailed macaque monkeys who were introduced to the island years ago. While accustomed to having humans around, the monkeys can be aggressive"”keep a respectful distance, and don't try to touch or feed them.
Address: Monkey Island, Cat Ba, Northern Vietnam, Vietnam
From $ 223
Kiyotaki River
The crystal-clear waters of the Kiyotaki River make its banks one of the most scenic walking trails in the Kyoto area. Alighting from the bus at the Takao stop that heads west out of Kyoto and then on to Ninnaji Temple, it's just a short walk down to the banks of the Kiyotaki River.
The river's waters are impossibly clear, and within them lives the giant Japanese salamander. Measuring up to 1.5 meters long, the world's largest amphibian is sometimes referred to as the "living fossil" on account of the spices not altering much in 30 million years. The gentle walking trail along the river continues on to the village of Kiyotaki. From there, you can catch a bus to Arashiyama or else turn back and retrace your steps along the river.
Practical Info
Take the Kyoto City bus number 8 to the Takao bus stop. From there, it's around a 10-minute walk down to the Kiyotaki River.
Address: Kyoto, Japan
From $ 180
Kusakabe Folk Museum
Housed in a former merchant's house from 1879, the Kusakabe Folk Museum in Takayama protects and displays a collection of Japanese folk art, and while the displays are certainly worth a visit, it's the architecture of the building itself that draws most visitors.
The original structure was once the home of the Kusakabe family, a successful merchant family during the Edo Period (1603-1868). After the original was destroyed by fire in 1875, Japanese architect Jisuke Kawashiri rebuilt it using the same style as its predecessor. The two-story building, constructed largely from Japanese Cypress, features exposed beams, a gently sloping roof, delicate latticework windows and a dark brown finish created by mixing soot into the paint. In 1966 the house was designated as a National Important Cultural Property.
Practical Info
The Kusakabe Folk Museum is open to the public seven days a week and charges and admission fee. It's located within walking distance of JR Takayama Station.
Address: 〒506-0851 Gifu Prefecture, Takayama, Japan
Hours: Open seven days a week, 9:00am - 4:30pm
Admission: 500 yen
From $ 861
Mae Sai Valley
The northernmost town in Thailand, and one of the few official crossings to Myanmar, Mae Sai is an ideal starting point for tours of the Golden Triangle.
The Mae Sai Valley is in Chiang Rai province, and the busy border town at its heart is in a hilly location on cliffs bordering the Mae Nam Sai river.
Take a walk around the hilly town to visit Wat Phra That Doi Wao for views into Myanmar from the temple.
Being a busy border town, Mae Sai has plenty of accommodation, food stalls and restaurants. Shops here sell Burmese lacquerware, gems and jade.
Practical Info
The Mae Sai Valley is in the northern Thailand province of Chiang Rai, on the Myanmar border.
Mae Sai is 1.5 hours from Chiang Rai and 4 to 5 hours from Chiang Mai by bus.
Address: Highway 1, Mae Sai 57130, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 75
Maryudo Falls
Located along the Urauchi River in the center of Iriomote Island in Okinawa, Maryudo Falls descends a total of 52 feet (16 meters) over the course of three stages. The falls, the largest by total water volume of all the Okinawa falls, is accessible via a 30-minute walk along a jungle trail, passing the Kanpiuree Waterfall along the way.
The trail leads to a viewing platform, where visitors get an unobstructed view of the waterfalls in their entirety, before continuing on for a close-up, mist-in-your-face view of the cascading water.
Practical Info
The trek to Maryudo Falls begins from Gunkan-iwa Rock, a stop on practically every Urauchi River cruise.
Address: Iriomote, Okinawa, Japan, Japan
From $ 0
Namtso Lake
This massive saltwater lake is the second largest lake in China and one of the most-visited sites in all of Tibet. Surrounded by picturesque natural beauty, the area's high altitude requires most travelers to spend a few days adjusting to it in one of the neighboring cities before making the trip to the lake's salty shores.
Visitors agree the lake is a truly breathtaking site to see, and Tashidor Monastery, located on an island in the lake, rounds out the experience with a taste of culture, history and religion, too. The lake's out-of-the-way location also makes it an ideal spot to witness the nomadic life of drokpas"”herders who live on the plateau of Changpa.
Practical Info
Namtso Lake is located past Kyang-rag Monastery. Minibus tours from Lhasa are available for about Y250. Entry to the lake is Y120 and often included in these tours. Single-day trips can be quite tiring, so those in the know suggest spreading a visit over two days.
Address: Tibet, China
Admission: Y120
From $ 750
Little India
Little India is a somewhat unidentified neighborhood in downtown Yangon. It is spread out over several streets and received the name during the British occupation, when many Indians and Bangladeshi Muslims migrated to Yangon. The district is a melting pot of people and features mosques and Hindu temples among rustic looking houses and colonial style buildings. A large Indian food market, the Thein Gyi Zei, attracts people having lunch, buying food and selling goods, while the surrounding narrow streets are covered on both sides in a variety of stores. Fresh fruit is sold everywhere and mangos and rambutans are advertised next chapattis and samosas. Often, the food is laid out on the sidewalks and piled high in baskets, which makes the walkways even more congested, but also moves everyday life out into the streets.
Interesting to see is the Shri Kali Hindu Temple, which was built by Tamil immigrants during colonial times. This incredibly vibrant temple is painted in all colors of the rainbow and covered from top to bottom in depictions of Hindu gods and goddesses dancing, standing, playing instruments and twisting and bending in all kinds of weird poses. Here, several Hindu festivals are held each year, but among the most famous is the Murugan Festival, which apart from colorful processions also features ritual self-mutilation.
Practical Info
Little India can be found only a few blocks away from Chinatown to the west of and around the Sule Pagoda. There aren't any concrete bounds to the district, as it is blended into Yangon's busy downtown area, so it's best just to wander and discover as you go.
Address: Dagon, Yangon, Myanmar
From $ 33