Recently updated on January 17th, 2020 at 09:37 pm
Home to some of the world’s oldest cultures, fascinating architecture, beautiful natural landscapes, delicious foods and friendly locals; colorful Asia ticks all the right boxes for a top holiday destination.
From fast-paced, exciting Bangkok and Tokyo to the sensational beaches of Koh Phi Phi or Halong Bay, adventure is everywhere you turn on an Asia tour. Each region is different; with a cuisine, culture and history all just as fascinating as the next. Join us on an unforgettable holiday in Asia and let Trafalgar bring you insider experiences and magical moments you just won’t find anywhere else.
Asian History
Asia is home to some of the earliest architecture and ancient empires of the world and full of fascinating historical sites, each with their own unique charm.
On your tour of China with Trafalgar, you’ll take a rickshaw ride around the ancient Hutong alleyways, visit the Forbidden City with its imperial gardens and see the sacred structures of Beijing, before standing in awe of the view from the famous Great Wall. Join a Local Guide to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the legendary army of Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses in Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s subterranean tomb.
On your Japan tour, explore the Imperial Palace, formally known as Edo Castle, surrounded by its original innermost moat and star attraction, the Meiji Shrine, a picturesque Shinto shrine set in a beautiful tree-lined avenue. Discover coastal Kanazawa, a historic castle town which boasts beautifully preserved samurai districts. In Kyoto, marvel at the fine architecture of the shrines and temples, the old Shogun residence and the Kinkaku-ji Temple famous for its Golden Pavilion.
Explore Hanoi’s celebrated history on your tour of Vietnam; visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the first University of Vietnam and the Temple of Literature, which is filled with the profound philosophies of Confucianism. Take a cyclo tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to learn about traditional Vietnamese architecture and spend a night cruising Ha Long Bay aboard a traditional Junk sailing boat.
Asian Food
Asia really comes alive through its cuisine. But it’s not just about trying Dim Sum or Pho; it’s about stepping out of restaurants and into a local’s home to dine with them, or meeting the people who prepare your food. Trafalgar’s Be My Guest dining experiences will connect you with the true essence of Asia; and wherever you go in Asia, you can rest assured the local food will be delicious.
Experience Japanese hospitality at its best on a visit to a Ryokan, a traditional inn run by a local family, where you’ll enjoy to a kaiseki lunch of Japanese delicacies.
In Vietnam, Mr Tran Quoc Tuan and his family welcome you to their herb farm and give you an insight into how their produce is grown and prepared before you settle in for a delicious meal made with fresh local ingredients. You’ll appreciate tranquil views across the fields as you savour Vietnamese specialities like Crispy Cam Ha pancakes and marinated prawns.
Ride a traditional rickshaw through the narrow streets and alleys of Beijing called Hutongs, before arriving at an authentic courtyard house to enjoy a meal of incredible local specialties with the family who live there. We promise you’ll never forget the moment you first try authentic homemade dumplings!
Asian Landscapes
Asia boasts some of the most incredible natural phenomena and in the world. Just west of Tokyo, Mount Fuji is the highest volcano in Japan and one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Asia. On your Japan tour with Trafalgar, you’ll ascend to the 5th Station of Mount Fuji to enjoy some spectacular views at 2,300m.
On your tour of China, cruise along the spectacular Yangtze River, China’s longest river and the third-longest in the world. Marvel at beautiful scenery and enchanting landscape as you voyage down the Lesser Gorges aboard a small riverboat and visit the site of the Three Gorges Dam.
In Vietnam, drive through rice paddy fields to Ha Long Bay where you board a traditional Junk sailing boat for a cruise among the hundreds of islets of Ha Long Bay. You’ll visit a grotto of gigantic stalactites and stalagmites before dropping anchor later in the evening for dinner and a peaceful overnight stay afloat among the dramatic limestone peaks rising out of the sea.
Explore Classic China, see the Splendors of Japan, uncover the Secrets of Thailand and experience the Highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia with Trafalgar! Visit our website (www.trafalgar.com) for more information on our exciting range of tours in Asia in 2014.