Malaysia’s beginning and end is the capital city of Kuala Lumpur (KL).  Begin your Malaysian adventure in this buzzing city where 21st century megastructures punctuate a truly eclectic Asian skyline.  For a truly inspiring view of the Petronas Twin Towers, be sure to have your camera at the ready at the top of the open air skydeck of the KL Tower.  Without a doubt, it will not take long for you to embrace the Malaysian way of life in KL, beyond and back again.

Currency is the Malaysian ringgit

Language is Malay & English

When to visit Malaysia:

• High Season: December to February
• Shoulder: July to November
• Low Season: March to June

Jordan is a safe haven in a region of conflict that has delighted visitors for centuries with its spectacular history, friendly towns and inspiring desert vistas.  The ancient hospitality that has welcomed visitors since Roman times remains to this day.  If it is a diamond in the rough that you seek, then it must be the ancient Nabataean city of Petra.  The natural wonders of Jordan are not to be missed as well.  Take a ride with Lawrence of Arabia through the Wadi Rum at sunset where the weathered sandstone glistens red with the waning light of the day.  ‘Ahlan Wa Sahlan’

Currency is the Jordanian Dinar

Language is Arabic

When to visit Jordan

• High Season: March to May
• Shoulder: September to February
• Low Season: June to August

Japan is an incredibly easy and safe country to travel around.  Specifically, the Japanese public transport system is one of the best in Asia.  So, whether you ride a sleek bullet train or a humble rickshaw, you will find getting around the country an absolute breeze.  With all that in mind, if you are looking for contrasting images of ancient temples amongst futuristic cities then you have met your match in Japan.

Currency is the Yen

Language is Japanese

When to visit Japan:

• High Season: April to May, August
• Shoulder: June to July, September to October
• Low Season: November to March

There is a code of conduct for visiting temples.  It is important to act and dress with respect when visiting religious sites.  Women may accept a gift from a monk but must be careful never to touch him.  Shorts and tank tops are not appropriate.  Hats must be taken off when entering the grounds.   Shoes must be taken off before going into the temples.  When sitting in front of Buddha, sit with feet to the side.  Bow in the presence of elderly monks.  Giving a small monetary donation will be greatly appreciated.  Never point your finger or soles of your feet towards a monk or a Buddha figure.

Israel itself is modern and westernized, it has great public transport, architecture and plenty of English speakers.  Consider two weeks in Israel so you can hit the major highlights, including Masada, Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, Haifa and the Sea of Galilee.  Everything is within easy reach by public transport, car or bicycle.  Shalom!

Currency is the New Israeli Shekel

Israel’s national language is Hebrew.  In the tourist centres, many European languages are spoken, including English.

When to visit Israel:

• High Season: April to October
• Shoulder: November, March
• Low Season: December to February

Ireland is now a modern country, but some things never change.  Endeavour to explore the spectacular Skellig Michael which lies offshore in the raging Atlantic.  On the Emerald Isle history presents itself everywhere from coast to coast to coast.  Last but not least, the friendly Irish will give you lasting memories whose lyrical nature is expressed in the warmth of their welcome.

Currency is the Euro

Language is English and Irish

When to visit Ireland:

• High Season: June to September
• Shoulder: April to May, October
• Low Season: November to March

 

Indonesia’s island geography bridges the exotic cultures of Asia and the island paradises that characterize the Pacific.  Specifically, Bali’s rich culture plays out at all levels of life.  Yes, the mere mention of Bali evokes thoughts of paradise on earth.  However it’s more than just an island, it’s a tropical state of mind.

Currency is Indonesian Rupiahs

Language is Indonesian, however there are many local dialects throughout the islands

When to visit Indonesia:

• High Season: July to August
• Shoulder: May to June, September
• Low Season: January to April, October to November

Iceland is a tiny island in the North Atlantic where the past meets the future in an elemental symphony of wind, stone, fire and ice.  Beyond the landscapes austere bleakness, it’s hard not to be deeply touched by the island’s awesome beauty as few leave the country without a fervent vow to return.

Currency is Icelandic Kronur

Language is Icelandic

When to visit Iceland:

• High Season: June to August
• Shoulder: May and September
• Low Season: October to April

 

India is a global microcosm with one foot deeply grounded in time honoured traditions and the other fervently striding into the digital age.  While it is truly a land of astonishing contrast, as sublime as it is squalid, it certainly embraces diversity like no other country on Earth.  From the forts and palaces of maharajahs to fiery festivals and wildlife safaris at dawn, India is a world of imagination writ large.

Currency is the Indian Rupee

India’s linguistic landscape is varied, including 23 languages recognized in the constitution and more than 1600 minor languages spoken.  Many consider Hindi the national language, however many educated Indians speak English as their first language.

When to visit India:

• High Season: December to March
• Shoulder: July to November
• Low Season: April to June

Travel Health: it is especially important that you visit your travel physician prior to this trip as parts of India are at altitude.  You may need medication to prevent altitude sickness.

Hong Kong is Asia’s top culinary capital; whether the deliciousness is Cantonese, Shanghainese, Vietnamese, Japanese or European all of your foodie expectations will be exceeded.  Most visitors to Hong Kong begin exploring this vibrant Asian capital by reflecting on the glass and steel typical of this city’s commercial persona.  Hong Kong also boasts a vibrant cultural scene that features the eclectic influences of its Chinese roots, colonial past and a remarkable amount of homegrown talent.

Currency is the Hong Kong Dollar

Languages are Cantonese and English

When to visit Hong Kong:

• High Season: November to February
• Shoulder: October, March to April
• Low Season: May to September (typhoon season)

There is a code of conduct for visiting temples.  It is important to act and dress with respect when visiting religious sites.  Women may accept a gift from a monk but must be careful never to touch him.  Shorts and tank tops are not appropriate.  Hats must be taken off when entering the grounds.   Shoes must be taken off before going into the temples.  When sitting in front of Buddha, sit with feet to the side.  Bow in the presence of elderly monks.  Giving a small monetary donation will be greatly appreciated.  Never point your finger or soles of your feet towards a monk or a Buddha figure.