Asia

There has never been a better time to visit Saudi Arabia, and with the eVisa now quick and easy to obtain, planning a trip is finally within the realm of possibility. Going to Saudi Arabia means adventures in the desert, staggeringly pretty beaches, dazzling metropolises, internationally known holy sites and sky-high snowy mountain peaks. Though it is the cradle of Islam and the burial place of the Prophet Muhammad, Saudi Arabia is far from being only a pilgrimage destination. The capital city, Riyadh, nicknamed ‘Queen of the Desert’, is like a polished diamond in a vast sea of rough pebbles. Its futuristic and sophisticated buildings make for a truly interesting contrast with the traditional ways the city is rooted in. Jeddah, the country’s second largest city, boasts an idyllic position on the coast of the Red Sea. Visit Masjid Al Rahma (Jeddah’s floating mosque), admire the old city gates and stroll along the Jeddah Corniche, a 30-km long promenade bordering the seafront, where King Fahd’s Fountain jet the height of a skyscraper shoots up into the warm Saudi air.

China is a vast land, with a climate ranging from tropical to subarctic. It is a demographic behemoth, with the world’s largest population and a staggering diversity of cultures and languages. It is the world’s oldest continuous civilization, with a rich history spanning millennia and endless potential for the future. It is one of the most fascinating countries in the world, and a traveler’s dream with some of humanity’s most recognisable and beloved landmarks (the Great Wall of China, of course, topping the list). With short-term visa-free stays available in a growing number of cities (for up to 144 hours in some cases), there has never been a better time to visit and try to tame the indomitable Red Dragon.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a country located in the Arabian Peninsula facing out into the Persian Gulf. Cities in the UAE have certainly come a long way from the humble fishing villages they once were. After the discovery of petrol under the hot sandy soil during the mid-20th century, the city of Dubai decided to team up with six other neighbouring emirates to secure the region’s prosperity. Today, the UAE boasts luxurious metropolises such as Sharjah and Dubai, as well as its dazzling capital, Abu Dhabi. Make your way along the capital’s seafront Corniche as you saunter towards the Emirates Palace, a truly mesmerising gem of a building that dominates the Abu Dhabi coastline. Further up the coast is Dubai, a blend of beach, city and desert. Down by the water there are a number of adrenaline-packed activities to partake in, such as jet-skiing or flyboarding at JBR beach. Out in the desert you can go sandboarding, quad biking and even rent out a hot air balloon for a special occasion. The nearby city of Sharjah is so close to Dubai that the two are adjacent. Although Sharjah is Dubai’s often overlooked neighbour, it truly has very much to offer. Admire the Al Noor Mosque in all its splendour by the shimmering waters of the Persian Gulf or head to the Al-Qasba area and go for a ride on the Eye of the Emirates Wheel.

Although much has changed in Israel in the last twenty years, travelers will certainly still get a feel for the country’s complex politics. Nevertheless, Israel is a safe place to visit and has many things to offer, from ancient Bedouin culture to diverse landscapes, marked by the exceptional aura of the Dead Sea and the colourful canyon of Makhtesh Ramon. Learn more about this country’s turbulent past and explore the cities of Nazareth and Jerusalem that are steeped in history. Try the abundance of local foods and delicacies like hummus and mezze or experience a modern Israel in one of Tel Aviv’s bars and nightclubs.

The often overlooked Qatar is a burgeoning spot for world-class tourism, and its traditional Bedouin roots contrast perfectly with its modern cutting-edge skyscrapers. Located on a small peninsula that stretches out into the Persian Gulf, the tiny country of Qatar prides itself on its particular blend of tradition and modern life. Gawk in amazement at the skyline of Doha from the city’s waterfront promenade, admire the 14 centuries-worth collection of artistic creations at the Museum of Islamic Art or take a stroll around one of the traditional Qatari markets called ‘souqs’. Alternatively, you can feed your need for adrenaline by going on an off-road desert safari across the mighty sand dunes that can be found just south of Doha. If that’s a bit too much, how about heading down to check out The Pearl, a man-made island that snakes out into the sea, complete with luxury villas, themed residential areas, a port and some very particular homes almost entirely surrounded by water.

Prized cuisine, sandy beaches, gleaming Buddhist temples and paradisiacal islands all make up Thailand, the quintessential Southeast Asian destination for travelers of the most contrasting passions. Those seeking seclusion and relaxation will relish the spas and resorts, nature-lovers – gawk at steep, lush cliffs of Andaman sea islands, sports enthusiasts will try out surfing and kite-boarding, and absolutely anyone will take pleasure in visiting Chiang Mai, the country’s spiritual capital.

Vietnam is a true masterpiece of a country in Southeast Asia. From the lively urban centre of Ho Chi Minh City to the stunning beauty of internationally renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites, visiting Vietnam makes for a truly life-changing experience. The capital city, Hanoi, displays a curious mix of Chinese and French influences that come together in a large urban area with a surprisingly relaxed atmosphere. On the northeastern coast of the country is the ever-popular Ha Long Bay. Picture a sea of shimmering turquoise waters within which impressive rock formations stand tall, crowned by the greenest of vegetation and hiding secret grottos decorated with ancient stalactites. Further south is Hoi An, a coastal city of bright yellow houses, endless rice fields and white beaches. Its gorgeous and well-preserved Ancient Town shows off the region’s particular brand of foreign-influenced architecture. In southern Vietnam is Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, a city like no other in the country. With so much to see and do, it is hard to get bored here. From the Museum of Vietnamese History (Bao Tang Lich Su) to the Emperor Jade Pagoda, the Notre Dame Cathedral and ‘Cho Lon’, or Chinatown, Vietnam’s largest city truly is an exciting and diverse cultural hotspot.