Guess what? You can again think of what countries to visit in Asia in 2024. Asia’s back in the game – shining brighter, stepping bolder, and aiming higher than ever before. It took a bit more time for this vibrant region to kick the pandemic restrictions off and open its doors again, but now it’s back with a bang, ready to show off to the world all the wonders that folks have been missing out on.
Asia offers a diverse range of travel locations that cater to budget-conscious families and couples seeking an exceptional holiday experience filled with exploration, adventure, and leisure. But where should you begin with so many amazing options? You’re in luck if you’re searching for inexpensive but interesting places to go in Asia! Let’s investigate five excellent travel locations that combine wonder with value: the Philippines, Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam, and China.
Thinking of how to get to these amazing destinations without spending a fortune? WowFare provides a lot of cheap flight deals and discounted offers to Asia with competitive pricing that makes these adventures accessible. Whether you’re flying from the East Coast, West Coast, or anywhere in between, WowFare offers options that can significantly reduce your travel expenses while providing great service for the customers.
In this guide
Table of Contents
Getting Ready for a Trip
The most important stage of any travel is preparation, especially when deciding on countries to visit in Asia. It’s all about planning smart and packing right — then your vacation will be smooth and stress-free.
What should I prepare before going abroad?
- Choose a country, buy airline tickets, and if required, obtain a visa
- Work out a general itinerary around the country
- Map the sights in the cities you plan to visit
- Book accommodation
- Prepare all documents, travel insurance, and a SIM card for the Internet.
- Highlight important sights along the route, study information about the country
- Check any necessary vaccinations that you might need
- Research the cost of living in that particular country to see how you’ll spend on essentials like stays, eats, rides, and fun during your vacation
What are the fastest flights to Asia from the USA?
The fastest flight to Asia from the United States takes approximately 11 hours and 15 minutes. This flight is from Los Angeles to Tokyo Narita Airport. Some other quick flight times from the US to major Asian hubs include: New York to Tokyo – around 14 hours and Los Angeles to Hong Kong – around 16 hours
What are the best airlines to fly to Asia from the USA?
- ANA treats all economy passengers to amenity kits and complimentary in-flight entertainment. Traveling to countries to visit in Asia is enhanced by ANA’s economy class, offering comfy seats with ample legroom and adjustable headrests. Enjoy free meals and drinks, with Japanese dishes available.
- Thai Airways economy class enhances the journey with blankets, pillows, and free meals and drinks, showcasing the renowned Thai hospitality when exploring countries to visit in Asia. Their vast route network facilitates smooth connections throughout Asia.
- Cathay Pacific stands out for its superior service on flights to countries to visit in Asia, offering economy seats with ergonomic cushions and adjustable headrests for long-haul comfort. Passengers relish complimentary meals, snacks, drinks, and entertainment, with popular regional dishes frequently served.
When booking flights to Asia, be sure to check fares on WowFare. This travel site specializes in discounted international flights, helping travelers save big on airfare to destinations like Japan, Malaysia, and the Philippines. By comparing rates across airlines and airports, you can score the best economy-class flight deals to Asia with WowFare.
What are the travel trends for Asia in 2024?
1. the Philippines: Countries to Visit in Asia
The Philippines is a treasure, well-known for its stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and extremely kind people. With over 7,000 islands to select from, deciding where to go might seem like a difficult undertaking! But we collect all the necessary information for travelers heading to the Philippines.
Visa: A tourist visa is not required for U.S. citizens in the Philippines if the stay is under three months. But you do need to present a valid passport and proof of return ticket.
Main dishes: lontong – rice in banana leaves, siumai – rice flour dumplings, pansit – rice noodles with pork or seafood, steamed fish – sea bass, mackerel, shark, chanos, squid and octopus meat, lechon – fried suckling pig, chicharon – pork rinds.
Best time to travel: The ideal period for visiting the Philippines falls during the dry season from January to April, offering warm and agreeable weather while steering clear of the summer months’ humidity.
Best cities to visit:
Manila
Manila, the heart of the Philippines, is steeped in rich history and vibrant culture. Though it might not boast the size, wealth, or orderliness of other cities within Metro Manila, it remains a must-visit destination for its historical significance and lively street life.
Cebu
Cebu, among the top countries to visit in Asia, is a diver’s haven and a prime spot for swimming with whale sharks. And fun fact: the legendary explorer Magellan is laid to rest right here in Cebu, so you’ll find plenty of cool spots tied to his adventures.
Bohol
Bohol is a must-see for its iconic Chocolate Hills, surrounded by enchanting tales about their beginnings. This island also boasts the tiniest monkeys on the planet, the adorable tarsiers. Swing by the reserve, and you might just get to cuddle these cuties and snap a memorable photo!
2. Japan: Countries to Visit in Asia
Japan stands out among countries to visit in Asia, with its cherry blossoms, ancient castles, epic tales, and sleek minimalism. Every corner, from parks to homes, museums to islands, is a masterpiece. Folks flock here for peace, stunning beauty, deep thoughts, and cutting-edge tech. A trip to Japan? It’s like stepping into a world where the old meets the new in the coolest ways. Imagine chilling in serene gardens and palaces, then zooming off on bullet trains or quirky streetcars to mountain tops.
Japan’s packed with so many unique sights that even locals can’t see them all in a lifetime. So, what’s a traveler to do? Soak it all up and let yourself be moved by Akira Kurosawa’s films. Get lost in the magical worlds of Hayao Miyazaki‘s animations. Find peace in nature’s majesty, muse over traditional poetry, and bit by bit, get to know this incredible country.
Visa: In 2024, US citizens still have the benefit of traveling to Japan for tourism, business meetings, conferences, and visiting friends or relatives without the requirement of a visa.
Main dishes: Sushi and sashimi; ramen: a beloved noodle soup dish with countless regional variations; tempura: lightly battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables; udon and soba: different types of Japanese noodles served in hot or cold dishes; yakitori: skewered and grilled chicken.
Best time to travel: The optimal times to explore Japan are from March to May and from September to November when the weather is both warm and dry.
Best cities to visit:
Kyoto
Kyoto is your go-to for stepping back in time with its endless ancient temples, popping gardens, and sacred shrines. It’s like a live snapshot of Japan’s traditions. A must-see? The Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, where you’ll be wowed by a sea of red torii gates that guide you up Mount Inari. And that’s just for starters. Don’t miss out on other gems like Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera, scattered around Kyoto, each with its own story to tell.
Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan’s buzzing capital, is a treasure trove of experiences. Keen on diving into the nation’s history and culture? There’s no shortage of temples and shrines waiting for you. Favorites like Senso-ji, Gokoku-ji, and Kaneiji are just the beginning.
Catching the cherry blossoms in full bloom is an age-old tradition that’s a must-do in Tokyo. For a magical week in spring, everyone heads to the parks to watch as the trees dress up in stunning shades of pink, with petals gently swirling around like snow. Timing your visit can be a bit of a puzzle, but aim for March 24 to April 2 in Tokyo to catch this breathtaking spectacle.
Nara
Nara’s got this super cool vibe thanks to the hundreds of deer that wander around Nara Park like they own the place. But that’s not all this city has up its sleeve. With stunners like Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga-Taisha Shrine, and Kofuku-ji Temple, you’re spoiled for choice. Yet, chilling in the park on a sunny day, feeding those adorable deer is its own kind of magic. And get this – you can grab deer cookies all over the park, and these cuties actually bow to say thanks for the snacks. How awesome is that?
3. Malaysia: Countries to Visit in Asia
Asia’s got this incredible knack for blending timeless traditions with the sparkle of the modern world, not to mention some out-of-this-world resorts. Take Malaysia in the picture – it’s all about dreamy beaches, enchanting landscapes, and galore-like temples. Hitting the beach in Malaysia is like stepping into paradise. Picture-perfect shores with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand, all without the crowds but with top-notch services to boot.
Visa: In 2024, US citizens can travel to Malaysia without a tourist visa. Holders of US passports are permitted to stay in Malaysia for up to 90 days for short visits. For a smooth and secure trip, please ensure you read all the information provided below.
Main dishes: The most popular food in Malaysia is either Nasi Lemak (a fragrant coconut rice dish served with prawn sambal, fried anchovies, and peanuts) or Roti Canai (a crispy, flaky flatbread typically served with curry or dhal).
Best time to travel: The ideal period to explore Malaysia varies by region: April to October is perfect for the East Coast, while December to March suits the West Coast best. For those planning to visit the island of Borneo, March to October is recommended. Situated near the equator, Malaysia experiences a climate that is generally hot, humid, and quite rainy throughout the year.
Best cities to visit:
Langkawi Island
Langkawi is a slice of paradise dotted with cozy resorts. Its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and fresh air set the scene for the ultimate getaway. The sand here isn’t just your average beach sand; it’s packed with minerals that do wonders for your lungs. Plus, Langkawi is a shopper’s haven – you can snag everything from tropical fruits to designer gear for less.
Kuala Lumpur
The heart of Malaysia, affectionately known as “KL,” is where the iconic Twin Towers stand tall. Once the tallest buildings in the world at 452 meters, they now host an art gallery, a fascinating science museum, chic restaurants, shops, and even a concert hall. Nearby, one of Southeast Asia’s biggest aquariums awaits. Just outside the city, a breathtaking complex of karst caves beckons, with the largest cave housing an ancient Hindu temple accessible by a 287-step climb. It’s a sacred spot that doubles as a natural wonder.
Borneo Island (Kalimantan)
Borneo is a treasure trove of natural beauty, teeming with exotic wildlife, lush forests, and stunning beaches. Known for its dazzling white sands and vibrant underwater scene, the island’s calm waters are shielded by coral reefs. Here, adventure lovers can go rafting, diving, and snorkeling. Some resorts offer the chance to soak in hot springs, visit a pearl farm, or explore local museums – making it an unforgettable escape.
4. Vietnam: Countries to Visit in Asia
Not too long ago, Thailand was the go-to spot for travelers from across Asia, but now, Vietnam is quickly becoming the new favorite among cheap countries to visit in Asia. Why? It’s all about its stunning culture, unique architecture, and breathtaking nature. Plus, it hasn’t been swamped by tourists just yet, making trips to Vietnam super hot right now. Scouring the internet for vacation stories in Vietnam? You’ll find tons. Some rave about the pristine beaches, others gush over the gorgeous national parks, and many celebrate its rich, untouched culture. The consensus? Vietnam is a must-visit destination that everyone should add to their bucket list.
Visa: In 2024, holders of US passports need to secure a visa for entry into Vietnam and have the option to apply for an eVisa, which can be either a 3-month single or multiple entry. The US passport must remain valid for a minimum of six months after the planned exit date and contain at least two blank pages for visas.
Main dishes: Pho – a traditional Vietnamese rice noodle soup, often served with beef or chicken. Banh mi – a Vietnamese sandwich typically made with a baguette filled with various savory ingredients such as pork, pate, and cucumber. Bun cha – grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles
Best time to travel: The optimal period for traveling to Vietnam spans from November to April when weather conditions vary across different regions. In Hanoi and the northern areas, May to October experiences hot, humid weather with significant rainfall, while November to April offers cooler, dry conditions. In the far north, December and January can be especially chilly.
Best cities to visit:
Da Nang
Da Nang is your gateway to relaxation with its own international airport, making travel a breeze. What’s the big draw? Stunning beaches with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, that’s what. The vibe here is lively, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs to explore. Hotels are cozy and welcoming, focusing more on comfort than opulence. Da Nang is the perfect spot for mixing chill beach days with some adrenaline-pumping surfing – thanks to its ideal conditions for catching waves.
Phu Quoc Island
As Vietnam’s largest island nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is easily reachable by its own airport. It’s a mesmerizing blend of untouched jungle and serene seas. Travelers flock here for the pristine beaches, exciting tours (think jungle treks and mountain adventures), and fun activities like fishing for crabs and squid. Plus, diving and snorkeling here won’t break the bank. And when it comes to dining and nightlife, there’s something for every palate.
Nha Trang
Meet the beach capital of Vietnam, Nha Trang. It’s all about sprawling, well-maintained beaches, a hotel for every budget, and endless water fun. Dive into picturesque waterfalls, bask in the clearest waters, and when the sun sets, hit the vibrant restaurant and club scene. For the kiddos, there’s a thrilling amusement park and a scenic cable car ride. Nha Trang isn’t just about fun and games; it’s also a wellness haven with treatments like massages, thermal baths, and mud therapy.
5. China: Countries to Visit in Asia
Exploring China ranks high on the list of cheap countries to visit in Asia. Taking a trip to China is like stepping into a timeless realm where an ancient culture has thrived for millennia. Empires rise and fall, the world evolves, and some civilizations fade into history, yet the majestic land of China stands tall, much like it has for countless ages. So, you’ve snagged your plane tickets, packed your bags, and got your camera ready to roll. But with so much to see, where do you even start? China’s got it all – from age-old temples and swanky modern hotels to museums that are in a league of their own. Why not kick things off in Shanghai?
Visa: Holders of a U.S. passport can enter Hong Kong without a visa. However, those intending to travel from Hong Kong to mainland China must obtain a visa in advance. It’s advisable to apply for this visa roughly one month prior to your journey, as visas are not issued upon arrival at the port of entry.
Main dishes: The traditional categorization of Chinese cuisine identifies Cantonese cooking by its sweet and crunchy characteristics. Among the most beloved dishes is dim sum, known for being a light and bite-sized appetizer. Key favorites within this cuisine include recipes such as lake fish, pork zongzi wrapped in lotus leaves, and lunjing shrimp.
Best time to travel: April, May, June, September, and October are perfect for traveling to nearly any destination within the country, though it’s worth noting that tourist spots may be more crowded during these months. Additionally, it’s advisable to steer clear of certain festivals, like National Week at the start of October, due to the potential for increased congestion.
Best cities to visit:
Shanghai
Shanghai has a transport system that’s the envy of cities worldwide, making getting around both easy and affordable. The city’s northeast is home to a bustling market that’s a must-visit. Don’t miss the serene Mandarin Garden and the awe-inspiring Temple of the City Gods. Over 300,000 tourists flock to these spots daily, and the crowds keep growing every year.
Beijing
Beijing is the heart of China and a powerhouse in trade and politics. Beijing is where modern vibes and ancient traditions collide. This city hasn’t missed a beat in preserving its rich history and spirituality. From the majestic Great Wall to the sprawling Tiananmen Square, the elegant Summer Palace, the heavenly Temple of Heaven, and the storied Forbidden City, Beijing has an endless list of wonders waiting to be explored.
Guilin
Nestled along the Li River, Guilin is a vision straight out of a fairy tale. The horizon here is a dramatic canvas of Karst mountains, with the rich emerald hues of the rivers and lakes adding to its mystique. Just a stone’s throw from the city, nature wraps you in its embrace. The sight of limestone peaks, ancient junks sailing the waters, and a touch of morning mist will sweep you off your feet, making you feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
What do I need to know before going to Asia?
- Don’t drink the tap water – it can make you sick. But ice is usually safe since it’s made with filtered water.
- Be respectful of local beliefs – whether that’s not touching heads, walking away from monks, or taking your shoes off. You’re a guest, so act like one.
- Watch your drink if you order an “extra strong” bucket – stuff sometimes ends up in the straws. A local tipped me off on that one.
- Stay healthy – drink water and eat your veggies, folks. Feeling crappy ruins temple explorations and long bus rides.
- And while in Asia, scuba dive! Way cheaper than back home and a total blast. Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam have primo spots and cheap PADI certification.
And with affordable airfare deals from WowFare, exploring cheap countries to visit in Asia becomes a reality, even on a limited vacation budget. Pack your bags, embrace the spirit of discovery, and let Asia unfold its wonders before you. Have safe travels, and may your journey be as enriching as the destinations.
