Western Australia To Asia

Perth, once an Australian backwater, is now at the vanguard of cool, with cutting-edge art, miles of stunning beaches, and a culture that’s both relaxed and impatient for the future.

Situated beside the Swan River, Perth is a magical place to explore. Start in Kings Park on Mount Eliza for the best views and an enchanting treetop walk. To indulge in some retail therapy, visit the high-end fashion boutiques of King Street. Art lovers will want to get acquainted with the center of Perth’s art scene—the Art Gallery of Western Australia which features the best collection of Aboriginal art in the country.

The Batavia coast of Western Australia has miles of white sand beaches, emerald seas, and some lovely small towns, one of which is Geraldton. “Gero” to the locals, is blessed with sun and consistent winds, and has become Australia’s wind surfing capital. And kite surfing capital. And not bad for surf surfing either, with miles of famous reef breaks.

You can take an eco-cruise of the Abrolhos Islands, a beautiful archipelago that is home to 90 species of seabirds. Watch the sea lions play and feed the huge Sampson fish by hand. Or jump in with them and snorkel around the wreck of the Batavia—the treacherous reef-surrounded atolls have claimed many like her.

Bali is enchanting – a lush, verdant isle where rice terraces color every available acre with the brilliant green of young shoots, and volcanic peaks said to house the gods tower above. It is a deeply spiritual place, where artful offerings of flowers and incense are ever present, and on any given day at least one of the thousands of temples scattered around the island will be hosting a colorful festival. Culturally rich, each village has its own artistic specialty – music, dance, painting, and sculpture. The beaches are tempting, but if you want the real Bali, head for the hills – the Balinese occupy that middle ground, and demons reside in the sea.

Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions meld in this island-state at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. The site of the world’s busiest port, Singapore offers the Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour mall and Sunte, the world’s largest fountain. Play evening golf on lighted fairways; experience the nightlife on Mohamed Sultan Road; or relax at an outdoor spa. Be certain not to miss the savory seafood.

Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions meld in this island-state at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. The site of the world’s busiest port, Singapore offers the Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour mall and Sunte, the world’s largest fountain. Play evening golf on lighted fairways; experience the nightlife on Mohamed Sultan Road; or relax at an outdoor spa. Be certain not to miss the savory seafood.

Located on the edge of the Mekong Delta, this dynamic metropolis also features the ageless beauty of an ancient culture. French colonial architecture mixes with modern and Asian influences, providing a diverse backdrop for the many motorbikes, scooters, pagodas and street markets. Stroll the wide boulevards of this city, formerly known as Saigon, and visit The History Museum, which houses artifacts from two thousand years of Vietnamese history.

Located on the edge of the Mekong Delta, this dynamic metropolis also features the ageless beauty of an ancient culture. French colonial architecture mixes with modern and Asian influences, providing a diverse backdrop for the many motorbikes, scooters, pagodas and street markets. Stroll the wide boulevards of this city, formerly known as Saigon, and visit The History Museum, which houses artifacts from two thousand years of Vietnamese history.

The Nguyen Dynasty founded this former capital in the 17th century on the banks of the Perfume River. Today it sits as a massive open-air museum of temples, pagodas, palaces and tombs. Explore the Imperial Citadel, then take a river cruise for a view of the Tombs of the Emperors and Thien Mu Pagoda.

Neon signs galore, dim sum, and amazing temples are a few of the favorite experiences in Hong Kong. Take is as much as you can of this thrilling city with its endless shopping and towering skyscrapers. Your agenda for Hong Kong should include Victoria Peak, an Aberdeen Fishing Village, the Man Mo Temple and Sheung Wan Dried Food and Herbal Market. Be certain to have extra room in your suitcase for the bargains you are bound to discover.