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Asia

Expert travel guides and holiday advice

Asia is a cultural hotspot, from its South Asian countries including India, Sri Lanka and Nepal to East Asian countries like Japan and China, there’s plenty to explore. Whether it's walking along the Great Wall of China or admiring the awe-inspiring architecture of the Taj Mahal in India, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to going on holiday in Asia. The Independent's travel experts have explored the continent's finest countries to guide you on what the top spots are for culture, history, food and most importantly, the best hotels to rest your head.

<p>The Trans Bhutan Trail allows visitors to experience the landscapes of the country anew</p>

The Trans Bhutan Trail, where sustainability meets off-grid adventure

Known as one of the great walks of the world, this ancient pilgrimage route is welcoming hikers for the first time in 60 years. Damien Gabet grabs his walking boots and checks it out

The Trans Bhutan Trail, where sustainability meets off-grid adventure

Known as one of the great walks of the world, this ancient pilgrimage route is welcoming hikers for the first time in 60 years. Damien Gabet grabs his walking boots and checks it out

Damien Gabet
<p>The Trans Bhutan Trail allows visitors to experience the landscapes of the country anew</p>
<p>Take a break from the rest of the world in the Maldives </p>

Best hotels in the Maldives for 2023

Indulge in wellness retreats and watersports at these luxurious Maldives hotels

<p>Four Seasons Jimbaran resort</p>

The best honeymoon hotels in Bali for a romantic escape

Have your palm read by a healer, experience the benefits of Balinese massage and enjoy fragrant cuisine at the most romantic of digs

Thailand

From mountain hikes to beautiful beach bars, it offers a range of different activities. Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai firmly stand among the best cities to visit, and of course, The Independent's travel experts have explored some of the top Thailand tourist attractions.

<p>Railay Beach in Krabi, southern Thailand</p>

The ultimate Thailand travel guide

Culture-stacked, delicious cities, jungly interior and some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Asia? Sign us up. Here’s how to get the most out of this backpacker’s favourite

See more of Bangkok by bike

Why you should explore congested Bangkok by bike and boat

Thailand’s president recently announced plans to move the country’s capital away from Bangkok, citing traffic congestion. But look a little closer and it’s actually one of the easiest cities to navigate, says Tamara Hinson

Laem Singh beach in Phuket

Best hotels in Phuket for luxury on all budgets

Home to some of the world’s best beaches, here are the best places to stay on this mountainous island

India

Dehli, Ranthambore and Mumbai are just three of the most popular destinations that show India at its most colourful. The Independent's travel experts have explored the country’s finest regions and cities to guide you on the top spots for culture, history, food and most importantly, the best hotels to rest your head.

<p>The Amber Fort, Jaipur, Rajasthan</p>

The ultimate India travel guide

Majestic palaces and ancient cities, storybook wildlife and some of the best food you’ll ever eat - India is a bucket-list classic, with strikingly different regions to explore

The ultimate India travel guide

Majestic palaces and ancient cities, storybook wildlife and some of the best food you’ll ever eat - India is a bucket-list classic, with strikingly different regions to explore

<p>The Amber Fort, Jaipur, Rajasthan</p>

Japan

From its advanced technology to its historical landmarks, Japan has a lot to offer. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima are among the most popular cities in Japan to visit. Thankfully for you, The Independent's travel experts have explored Japan to guide you around the best spots for culture, history, food and accommodation.

<p>Kyoto in Japan </p>

Japan travel guide: Everything you need to know

From the bright lights of high-tech mega cities to the peace of rural temples; from onsen culture to ski slopes stacked with light, dry powder – Japan is as diverse and dynamic a holiday spot as they come

Vietnam

From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh, the country has a number of great cities to explore. The Independent's travel experts have explored some of the best Vietnam tourist attractions and accommodation options to help you plan your trip.

<p>Hạ Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s hottest sightseeing spots</p>

The ultimate Vietnam travel guide

From head-spinning cities to tranquil natural scenery - via some exceptional street food - this is a bucket list favourite for a reason

China

From ancient sites to traditional cuisine and the high-rise metropolis of Hong Kong, there's so much to see and do in China. Our travel experts have found the best hotels, restaurants and attractions to visit on your holiday.

Sri Lanka

Read expert travel guides on the best holidays, hotels and things to do in Sri Lanka.

Singapore

From exploring green urban spaces to tasting delicious cuisine, Singapore offers an abundance of culture to enjoy. Read expert guides on where to stay and best things to do.

<p>A hawker market stall at Newton Food Center, Singapore</p>

Singapore’s hawker markets: how to navigate them and what to eat

These cheap, freshly-sizzled market dishes are not to be missed in the Asian stopover favourite, says Faris Mustafa. Here’s where to start

China town in Singapore

Why bling Singapore has more history than you think

This year’s bicentennial celebrations prove there’s more to the city than relentless modernity, says Helen Coffey

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