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Shaped in the form of the letter “S”, the country of Vietnam lies in the eastern part of the Indochinese peninsula, with China and Laos and Cambodia as its neighbors. Tracing its rich heritage back to 258 B.C., Vietnam has been a center of activity for centuries owing to its location on the map.

Here are the top 5 places to visit in Vietnam:

1. Hanoi – Bordering the banks of Red River, the capital city of Vietnam – Hanoi, traces its long history back to 3 century B.C. Also, as the second largest city of Vietnam, this city has retained its French colonial charm and is dotted with lovely parks and lakes. The Son La Mountains, standing tall on the western edge of the city are home to several sanctuaries, grottos and pagodas. The tranquil haven of peace – Halong Bay on the north of Hanoi gives way to dramatic rock formations and harbours extensive grottos and caves. The Perfume Pagoda, The One Pillar Pagoda, The Temple of Literature, National Preserve of Cuc Phuong and Ho Tay Lake Water Park are some of the main attractions of this beautiful city.

2. Ho Chi Minh City – Formerly known as Saigon, this stunning city is located in the heart of northern Vietnam – between the northern edge of Mekong Delta and the south eastern region of volcanic red soil. This combination of geographical features ensures that Ho Chi Minh is made up of natural forests, vast plains, long coast and hundreds of rivers and canals. Once also known as the “Pearl of the Orient”, this city worked as an important trade route between China and Japan. Lined with stately trees and magnificent French villas, this is the largest city in Vietnam. The pagoda of good luck and happiness, War Remnants Museum, Museum of Vietnamese History and several other interesting attractions like the Saigon Water Park are some of major points of tourist interest.

3. Halong – Located in the northeast of Vietnam, this exquisite city is made up of about 1,600 island and islets – photographs of which have often made Vietnam quite popular. While most of the islands are uninhabited, they’re also protected UNESCO world heritage site. As the islands are a source of life for a host of flora and fauna, there are several caves within the islands which you can explore including: Thien Cung, Dau Go, Sung Sot and Bo Nau. The Bay of the Descending Dragon is often also regarded as the world’s eighth natural wonder.

4. Hue – Originally built in 1687, the city of Hue also served as the capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen dynasty. Once the cultural, religious and economic centre of Vietnam, in Hue charming women with elegant Vietnamese traditional dresses and conical palm leaf hats welcome you, into their world. While no one who has been to Hue can forget the humbleness and graciousness of the Vietnamese people, enjoy the local culinary delights like steamed thin rice pancakes and several other delicious dishes. As several dozen museums and mausoleums surround Hue, most notable are: Gia Long, Minh Mang, Tu Duc and Khai Dinh mausoleums and the famous pagodas worth a visit are: Tu Dam and Thien Mu on the left bank of beautiful Huong river.

5. Nha Trang – Capital of the Khanh Hoa province, Nha Trang has lots of islands, coastal climate, clean beaches and lots of sunshine. Discover the beautiful towers of Po Nagar Cham, built between the 8th and 13th centuries. World famous for their architecture and sculpture, you can also admire the beautiful landscapes of the coastal region of Nha Trang, once you are atop the hill you can gaze at the beautiful landscape of the costal Nha Trang. Long Son pagoda, Hon Chong Beach, Palace of the Ocean King, Hon Mieu Island and Ba Ho Stream are of the other popular tourist attractions.

Shanghai is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in China today. In fact, your trip to China will not be complete without stopping by this vibrant and pulsating city that all its visitors rave about. Shanghai seamlessly merges its rich cultural past with modern technology. Because of this, there are a large number of destinations you can visit in Shanghai and these attractions range from museums that contain testaments to Shanghai’s past to the most modern facilities that symbolizes what Shanghai is today.

Some of the destinations you should not miss in Shanghai include:

1. The Oriental Pearl TV Tower – standing at about 470 meters high, this facility is one of the highest towers in China. Visitors can climb the tower to see the exhilarating view of modern Shanghai.

2. Nan Jing Road – this is a renowned shopping destination in the city with more than 600 shops that can cater to any tourist’s whims.

3. Bird and Flower Market – this market offers different kinds of birds and fish for both the locals and the tourist. You can also purchase bonsai trees and flowers to make your house more attractive.

4. People’s Square – this area is surrounded by a lot of government buildings because of its location. But visitors can enjoy the 320 sq. meter beautiful fountain in the area.

5. Great World Entertainment Center – this is one of the oldest entertainment centers in the city where you can find folk dancing and acrobatic performances at its best.

6. Yu Gardens – this garden is special if only because of its age. It was built during the Mind Dynasty 400 years ago and it still stands up to this date.

7. Communist Party Memorial Hall – this is the site of the first congress of the Communist Party in China and here you will find the wax display of Mao Ze Dong.

8. Huai Hai Road – this road was built in remembrance of the Huai Hai Battle. Now, this area now contains around 400 shops.

9. Dr. Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall – you will find an impressive collection of photo in the former residence of Dr. Sun Yat Sen.

10. Customs House – you will not actually be able to enter this establishment but you can admore the tower that contains the old clock from the outside.

11. Shanghai Museum - get a glimpse of Shanghai’s rich cultural past in this museum.

12. Sichuan North Road – this shopping district meets the everyday needs of the ordinary shopper.

13. Jiali Sleepless City – get attractive mementos of your visit to Shanghai in this district.

14. Jade Buddha Temple – this is another place you should not miss in Shanghai because it will enable you to experience the city’s spiritual roots.

15. M on the Bund – of course, after you had gone through all these attraction, it is also important for you to eat. Grab a fine dinner at M on the Bund.

Thailand gained its prominence as one of the hottest tourist spots because of its mountains that almost touches the sky, green meadows, multi-colored orchids, fascinating native handcrafts, coupled with tropical climate. The country is well known for the hospitality it provides to its tourist and also for the local delicious food. For an active traveler, Thailand could be the perfect spot to spend holidays. Advance booking of travel packages can make your trip to this place an interesting one.

The Following are the Top 5 places to visit in Thailand.

1. Bangkok

Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand is the 22nd most populous city in the world. Bangkok has a population of 7 million. The city is a major economic and financial center of South east Asia. Bangkok has one of the fastest rates in the world for construction of high rise buildings. The city’s wealth of cultural sites, art and palaces makes it one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. The star attraction of all is the holy Jade Buddha in the central pagoda of the grand palace. Also famous in Bangkok is the Pasteur Institute or the Snake farm which is known for its extensive collection of poisonous snakes.

2. Phuket

Phuket is the biggest island in Thailand, located in the Andaman Sea off southern Thailand. The island is mostly mountainous with a mountain range in the west of the island from the north to the south. The western coast has several long sandy beaches, while on the east coast beaches are more often muddy. Near the southernmost point is Brahma’s Cape, which is a popular sunset viewing point. A tourist won’t be disappointed by the night life Phuket offers. Phuket has many types of spas to cater to the needs of each person. Each spa is a unique haven for relaxation. Plan your visit to Phuket so that it coincides with the festivals and events which would make your holiday memorable. Phuket also offers some of the best sporting activities like windsurfing, scuba diving, snorkeling and not to forget the best seafood in Thailand.

3. Pattaya

Pattaya city is located along the east coast of the gulf of Thailand. Once a small fishing village in the 1960’s, Pattaya has today grown to be considered as a famous Southeast Asia tourist spot. There are a number of reasons for tourists to come to Pattaya, these include the luxury resorts, excellent shopping, beautiful beaches, friendly people, reasonable prices and some also come to witness the worlds renowned nightlife. Modern sex tourists from America and Europe have brought a new lease of life to Pattaya and its inhabitants. Other attractions at Pattaya are the golf courses, deep sea fishing, cabaret shows, bars, night clubs, discos, private wooden temples, submarines that take you underwater to see marine life and different theme parks like the elephant village.

4. Ko Samui

Ko Samui is a district of Surat Thani Province in Thailand. The district covers the island, as well as the Ang Thong archipelago and some other small islands nearby. Ko Samui is visited mostly by holidaymakers who want to get away from the maddening crowd and for its main appeal which is its funky rural beach communities with white beaches, clear and warm seas. Some beaches in Ko Samui are not where you can leave the crowd behind and enjoy yourself, but still they are cool and busy islands for international tourist to enjoy. Some other top attractions at Ko Samui is the Big Buddha Temple, Na Muang Waterfall, Grandmother and grandfather rocks, Secret Buddha Garden, Angthong Marine National Park and Samui Butterfly garden.

5. Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a city in southern Thailand near the boundary to Malaysia. The Asian highway #2 and Asian highway #18 begins in Hat Yai and runs down south along the eastern coast of the Malay Peninsula. Shopping is a big attraction at Hat Yai and is popular for good Thai handicrafts. Hat Yai boasts of a large number of hotels and visitors trickle in here in large numbers annually. It is also famous during the nights when all the tourist are out of their hotels.

Having fascinated millions all over the world for centuries, India is a country that is bursting at its seams with traditions, culture, history, wildlife and natural beauty. Many get confused on what attraction to visit first because there are many wonders in this country that should be discovered. India is definitely a place where a person can be spoilt with the wide range of choices. But there are some areas that tourist should simply visit and here are the top five favorite destinations in India:

1) Agra : Welcome to the city of love. Known the world as the home to Taj Mahal, the only monument of its kind that is built for love. The overwhelming beauty of this mausoleum will numb you and the sheer poetry etched in marble will entice you to sit on the famous “love seat” and get your picture taken. Take home a whole lot of memories cherish and don’t forget to visit the grave of Akbar, the famous Mughal emperor.

2) Bandhavgarh National Park : Stretched across a staggering 448 sq. km in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh is the haven for wildlife known as Bandhavgarh National Park. Famous for the royal Indian tigers, this is one of the best places to view this majestic animal in its natural habitat. While tigers fill the park, you can also spot a host of other wildlife species such as deer, nilgai, elephants and a numerous species of birds.

3) Lahaul Spiti : Meant especially for those who love the unknown, this mountainous rugged beauty is the place for exquisite natural wonders. Lahaul and Spiti are two remote valleys in the state of Himachal Pradesh, lying between Tibet and Ladhakh. With very limited or no rain here, this trekker’s paradise is full of constant sunshine, and a view of the magnificent Himalayas. Dotted with various Buddhist monasteries known as Gompa’s, this valley is also showcases the rich Buddhist culture and traditions.

4) Khajuraho : Temples built around the 1050 A.D., under the benefaction of the erstwhile Chandela Kings, Khajuraho is a beautiful collection of twenty-two temples. Full of Erotica in the ancient and the most artistic and unique forms ever found in the world, Khajuraho is a living testimony to the spiritual and intellectual mindset of the people of that era. Khajuraho is also home to the saga of love: The Kama Sutra.

5) Lakshadweep : Scattered amidst the cerulean blue Arabian Sea on India’s western coastline, this beautiful group of coral islands still remain undiscovered by many. From swimming in the crystal clear lagoon, to snorkeling in the coral reefs, Lakshwadeep has been till date India’s best kept secret. If you want a break from the usual and want to stay hidden amongst pristine beaches and azure blue waters, this is the place to be.

Also the third largest country on this planet, the People’s Republic of China is also the largest country in the world in terms of population. Mystical and mythical, intriguing and exciting, China has since ancient times, been an extremely enticing country for everyone.

The top 5 destinations to visit while you’re in China are:

1. Beijing – As the capital of China, Beijing is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, strewn all over the city. The Great Wall, the Former Imperial Palace, Forbidden City and the ruins of the Peking Man are some of the great architectural wonders, waiting to be experienced. Travelling through Beijing is quite a contrast, modern day sky scrapers pitted against the magnificent ancient wonders. Among the immense amount of ancient buildings that dot the landscape, to this day are quite a few Buddhist monasteries, Taoist temples and Catholic churches, such as Yonghegong Lamasery and Big Bell Temple. Over 120 museums are worth visiting, but noteworthy amongst them are the China Art Museum and the Museum of Chinese History. And while we’re talking about history one can’t forget the historic Tian’anmen Square in the center of Beijing, which can hold upto 1 million people and is also the largest city square in the world. The night scene of Tian’anmen Square is definitely a MUST for any visitor to Beijing.
2. Shanghai – A dazzling city swirling with a rapid cultural change, Shanghai is a fresh, new sophisticated city, ready to envelop you in its arms. Visit the Shanghai museum, the Bund and the Nanjing Road, Yu Garden and Yuyuan Market and watch an amazing acrobat show in the nite, in any of the various theaters. While you’re experiencing the Old Town of Shanghai which was laid out in 1559 AD by a powerful Ming official, loose yourself in the beautiful landscape of pagodas, pavilions, rockeries, fountains, ancient trees and precious flowers at Yu Garden or just shop for some beautiful trinkets and souvenirs of your trip at Yuyuan Market. The cosmopolitan nature of Shanghai will make sure you’re not left behind in your trip to this mystical country.
3. Guilin – Welcome to the most scenic city in China – Guilin. The stunning landscape of this city creates a magic which makes sure that you forget everything else. Beautiful and yet strangely shaped hills or karsts, replete with bamboo and conifers together with wonderful caves make Guilin a MUST see attraction for everyone. Visit the Elephant Trunk Hill, which looks like a giant elephant drinking water from the Li river or Fubo Hill where you can see loads of Buddha statues thousands of years old or see a panoramic view of the entire city from the top of the Returned Pearl Cave.
4. Xi’an – Also known as the eternal city. Xi’an has been the witness to China’s changing history. Also known as Chang’an in ancient times, Xi’an was also the cradle of ancient civilization along the banks of the Yellow River. In Xi’an’s 3,100 year old history, 13 dynasties have ruled over it. A mandatory visit to the Natural History Museum will acquaint you with the several wonders from this part of China. The infamous Museum of Terra Cotta Warirrors also known as the eight wonder of the world, is here and an imperative visit. While the Mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang is also a world heritage site, the City Wall is the largest and the most intact Ming dynasty wall in the world. Nearby Xi’an also exists the ‘forefather of pagodas and temples in Central Shaanxi,’ since it holds the finger bones of Sakyamuni - the founder of Buddhism. While its historical significance has been of paramount tourist interest, the natural wonders of Xi’an are nothing short of being a marvel in themselves. Worth a visit are: Mt.Huashan, Forest of Stone Steles and Banpo Village Remains.
5. Yangshuo – Bored of the hustle bustle of city life? Or just in the dire need of a fresh breath of air and want to experience nature at its best? Head right to Yangshuo, a small county in southern China. This city of breath taking beauty and a history of over 1,400 years, makes sure that ancient traditions are still alive to this day. Diverse ethnic minority groups such as Hui, Zhuang, Yao enrich this land with their folk cultures and add exotic flavors to its fascination. Flowing through this scenic beauty is the ‘Little Li River’ or the Yulong River – a paradise for a cruise because of its green hills, silky water and ancient bridges. You can also visit Xanadu, a primitive minority village to experience folk culture and tranquil rurality first hand.