Far from home in nearly every sense, these countries dazzle and enthrall travelers with their enduring traditions, stunning beauty, and rich history and cultural heritage. The variety of cultures in China, Japan, Vietnam and Thailand that must be experienced first-hand to be fully appreciated. The crowded whirlwind of activity found in the cities is a truly unique environment of temples and skyscrapers. But concealed behind high-tech industries and high-rise buildings lives a society with an ingrained sense of conservative Confucian values. Strong beliefs center around extended families, piety, discipline, respect and work ethic. A cruise offers the perfect way to travel all of these provocative, distant lands in comfort and convenience and feel the true heartbeat of Asia.
Pack comfortable shoes - Asia is full of walking, down hutong-lined streets, up steps to grand temples, and across islands. There is so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. At the top of the list? Visiting Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam; taking a tram up to the top of Victoria Peak in Hong Kong; gazing at the colorful, glimmering skyline in Shanghai by nightfall; and of course, walking along the Great Wall of China in Beijing.
Home to nearly three-fifths of the world's population, the continent of Asia is vast and full of cities and cultures to explore. Because the area is so big, itineraries typically focus on Japan and eastern China or southeast Asia. Whether you want to travel to China, Vietnam, Thailand, or Japan, there is an itinerary for you. Here are a few can't-miss ports in Asia:
Only a handful of cruise lines sail to Asia, most often between October and May, with peak season from February to April. Most cruises to this region are longer than average, with many lasting between 14 to 21 days. Trust us - once you're there, you'll want the time to explore!