Selective Asia - InspirAsian travel blog

Rail Journeys in Asia

Kate G

Why is train travel in Asia so enticing? Plane journeys are often quicker, and driving may offer more flexibility, but for us, how you get there is as important as where you’re going: with rail travel, the journey is the destination. Every rail journey in Asia tells a different story; from the station architecture to the routes, travelling by train tells you something intimate about how a country ticks.

A view from afar: Making space for serendipity

Nick Pulley

What to Expect from a Family Holiday in the Maldives

Kate Goulson

Soak up the Maldive’s paradise ambiance as well as its wealth of engaging culture, rich history, cutting-edge sustainability and local life that can take your family holiday to the next level. Our destination specialists know how to make the most of a family holiday in the Maldives, and have a few top tips to share…

Revisiting Vietnam - 48 Hours in the North

Kate Smith

Vietnam Specialist Kate has recently re-visited Vietnam on a research trip alongside Lou, and has shared some of the highlights of her journey north from Hanoi to Mu Cang Chai.

Food Tourism: Which destinations are foodies most keen to visit

Kate G

As many as 80% of travellers now research food and drink before heading off on their travels according to Global Food Tourism, which underlines what a big part it plays in trip-planning today. Find out which destinations foodies are most interested to visit.

Guide to Vegetarian and Vegan food in Vietnam

Louise Gasparelli

Food is one of the top highlights of travelling to Vietnam, with a vibrant range of dishes and flavours that varies as you travel from north to south. Happily, for those who go meat-free, vegetarian and vegan food is easy to find throughout the country, and there’s no need to compromise on taste - Vietnam’s rich flavours have plenty of diverse vegetarian alternatives to tempt the taste buds.

A guide to street food in Asia

Kate G

The term ‘street food’ might instantly bring to mind steaming pans being frantically stirred at the roadside, but it covers so much more. The broadest-brush interpretation takes you from down-to-earth vendors selling traditional fare, to energising pop-ups showcasing entrepreneurial edibles, with dozens of other iterations along the way. Street food can be rough-and-ready or more refined, traditional or fusion, quick fix or slow cooked, but it always has a few essential elements…

The future of tourism - what is the true cost of viable travel?

Nick

Now that the world is back in its tourism stride, countries are scrambling to try to balance the books and make travel more sustainable. Many governments are implementing or increasing visitor taxes to recuperate lost earnings and strengthen their resilience.

Celebrating Bhutan

Nick

Unique is a horribly overused word in travel commentary, and yet here we are - Bhutan is utterly unique. Not so much in its landscape (Nepal’s is comparable in many ways) nor its spirituality, as nations of many faiths can fairly lay claim to similar levels of commitment and belief. Its nuances, language, and cuisine are all ‘unique’, but there’s nothing unique about that. So what is it that makes it so special?

How to choose your ideal Maldives resort

Kate

Looking Beyond Yala: Selective's choice of the best Sri Lanka's National Parks

Nick Pulley

A View from (not so) Afar: Nick's Sri Lanka post-trip report

Nick Pulley

A view from afar: Honesty around sustainability

Nick Pulley

The realities of unexploded ordnance, the work of MAG and how travel can help

Nick

Help us spread the message and raise support for MAG's work in Laos with their campaign Unlock the Land.

Traveller or tourist? Maybe's now the time to decide

David Leck

Read about David’s experience travelling in post-pandemic Thailand.

Local lowdown on Sri Lanka's Wildlife & Conservation

Maria

Life in the wake of Covid: Sri Lanka

Maria

During this series, we will share stories of resilience, innovation and just day-to-day life straight from our friends in Asia.

Life in the wake of Covid: Cambodia

Maria

During this series, we will share stories of resilience, innovation and just day-to-day life straight from our friends in Asia.

Keep on growing - levelling up lockdown skills on your travels

Maria

The hobbies and interests that many of us have nurtured during our collective confinement have been much-needed silver linings to the heavy Covid cloud. We’re keen to inspire you to keep that momentum going, especially when we do eventually get to embark on those long-awaited travels - now is the time to take those new-found skills to the next level. Hold your newest obsession in your mind as you start to plan your next trip to Asia. We can’t wait to help you get back out there.

When travel isn't possible. A harsh reality, and what can we do to help?

Nick

Our hope in sharing this article is to learn what you think about a value that's been core to Selective Asia since we began: our collective responsibility to protect the communities and habitats we travel to.

Farewell, 2020 - We're ready for the next one

Nick

As the longest year of our lives finally draws to a close, we are beginning to look back through a year littered with extreme emotions. There have been far too many sad farewells, from stories of personal loss to heartfelt goodbyes with long-time colleagues, and leaving behind our lovely Selective Asia office after a period of heavy stress. Thankfully those days in March, spent urgently extracting clients from around Asia, are starting to become a distant memory. Along with the rest of our industry, we had to be quick to adapt. We shut down much of our operation, as did our partners and colleagues across Asia.

The future of travel: what will it really be like?

Nick

Nick did a lot of reading during the Covid-19 outbreak, and found many travel commentators claiming that the disease 'will' automatically bring about a number of changes. He's not so sure, and shares his insights in this blog post.

10 unprecedented days in the travel industry

Nick

Selective Asia's founder Nick shares an insider's view on life in the rapidly disintegrating travel industry during the COVID-19 outbreak

When's the best time to visit North-East India?

Suzie

From climate and weather to festivals and school holidays, our India Specialists share their expert insights into the best time to visit North-East India.

Team Travel Journal: Sara visits Tamil Nadu

Sara

Travelling through Tamil Nadu in South India, Selective Asia's Sara discovers a delightful culture and all manner of fascinating experiences.

Best places to visit on your India family holiday

Suzie

Our India Specialists pick out a few of their favourite hotels and experiences to craft your family’s adventures around…

Birding in Bhutan: bird watching in the Happiest Country on Earth

Gemma

Peppering your holiday in Bhutan with unique birding opportunities is a great way to see the landscape from a new angle, and gives you the chance to experience some of Bhutan’s finest festivals.

Festival fever in Bhutan

Gemma

Bhutan is famous for its flamboyant festivals, known locally as Tsechus. Gemma shares a few of the most exciting and interesting tshechus that are taking place in 2019...

On the road: planning a cycling holiday in Cambodia

Steve

Cycling in Cambodia offers something to suit everyone, from irresistible trails for keen riders to easy paved routes amongst the temples. Here’s our pick...

How to get the best out of diving in Asia

Stephen

Our Destination Specialist Stephen, who is a keen diver and trained instructor, explains how to get the best from a diving holiday in Asia.

Where to see orangutans in the wild

Guest author

Our Destination Specialists share the protected locations where you are most likely to see orang-utans in the wild…

Planning your Bhutan holiday around its festivals

Suzie

Whenever you visit Bhutan you’ll find a festival in full swing somewhere, so here are a few tips for planning your trip around the best of each season’s festival fever…

Team travel: cycling Japan's Shimanami trail

Nick

Nick visited Japan to cycle the famous Shimanami Kaido trail, which crosses several islands in the country's Inland Sea. Here he is describing the journey... 

Team travel: Ed's phinisi cruise from Bali to Komodo

Ed

Indonesia Specialist Ed recently spend a week on a traditional Indonesian sailing barge, visiting some hard-to-reach spots between Bali and Lombok National Park...

What to consider when planning a family holiday to India

Suzie

Our Destination Specialists explain what you need to consider if you want a smooth, enjoyable and hassle-free family holiday in India...

Team travel: Sarah visits Naoshima art island, Japan

Guest author

11 of the best resorts for couples in Thailand

Guest author

Whether it’s ultra-extravagance by the sea, a cosy hillside nook to snuggle up in, or a city-centre hideaway, the best resorts for couples in Thailand all have a little extra romantic magic. Our Thailand Specialists have picked a few of their favourite places for you to enjoy quality time with your loved one...

The best places in Asia to learn...

Guest author

From surfing to cookery, samurai swordfighting to tea ceremonies, our Destination Specialists have shared some of the best places in Asia to learn something new.

7 of the most romantic places to visit in Laos

Guest author

If you’re looking for a romantic Asia holiday away from the beaten track, we recommend heading to Laos. Why? Our Destination Specialists spill the beans...

7 of our favourite train journeys in Asia

Suzie

Nick's report from Sri Lanka

Nick

When Nick wrote this article soon after the Easter attacks in 2019 he hoped that his reports of such positivity on the ground would help encourage people to return. Roll forward a few years, throw into the mix a pandemic and …

15 best boutique hotels and eco lodges in Vietnam

Suzie

Our Vietnam Specialists share their favourite fifteen boutique hotels and eco lodges in Vietnam that stand out from the crowd...

Interesting ways to get around in Myanmar

Guest author

Our Myanmar Specialists share their favourite ways to get around Myanmar and see this spectacular country from diverse perspectives.

Team travel journal: Kate in India

Kate

Our India Specialist Kate describes a recent spellbinding trip off the beaten track to see tigers, leopards and other wildlife in India's numerous national parks...

Food you must try in Laos

Guest author

Our Laos specialists shared some of their top tips for where and what to eat on your Laos holiday, and made everyone in the Selective Asia office very hungry…

Selective Six: Asia hotels for the best night's sleep you've ever had

Suzie

A Selective Asia holiday packs in all kinds of exciting opportunities! But we like to make time for relaxation, too. Here are six hotels where we caught some particularly blissful zzzzs...

Best places in Laos and Cambodia for total relaxation

Guest author

Our Laos and Cambodia Specialists have picked out their favourite spots in Laos and Cambodia for ultimate relaxation...

Four of the best river cruises in Laos

Guest author

Our Laos Specialists pick a few of their favourite boat trips and cruises to - ahem - launch your imagination...

The best restaurants & bars in Yangon

Guest author

Head out to explore Yangon's dining scene with our Myanmar Specialists, who relish every chance to meet Yangon’s residents and discover what’s on the horizon...

Laos beach alternatives

Guest author

Our Laos Specialists have shared their favourite beach alternatives to make your Laos holiday complete...

Why is Tibetan butter such a big deal?

Guest author

Tibetan butter is eaten everywhere from Lhasa to the foothills of Mount Everest, but what exactly is it, and what makes people go misty-eyed at the thought of it?

Best places to visit in Laos with kids

Guest author

Laos is a great place to travel with kids of all ages, allowing you to combine wildlife watching and jungle adventures with laid-back city wanders, river cruises and even ‘beach’ time...

Our favourite family hotels in Thailand

Guest author

The Selective Asia team share their favourite resorts for the perfect Thailand holiday with kids...

Indian palaces & forts you can stay in

Karl

India is rich in superb architecture, and some of it has been turned into unique accommodation. Our India Specialists share a few of their treasured discoveries for you to add to your hotel wishlist...

Where to see tigers in India

Suzie

Our India Specialists talk about where to search for tigers in India, along with how to avoid the crowds and increase your chances of seeing other interesting species...

Thailand's weekend markets: Chiang Mai v Bangkok

Guest author

Both Chiang Mai and Bangkok boast fabulous weekend markets - but if you’ve only got time for one, which should you choose? Three of our Thailand specialists share their highlights and top tips for each...

Food & hygiene in India

Karl

We asked our India Specialist Karl if there’s really anything to worry about when it comes to food & hygiene when you're on holiday in India...

Trekking around holy Mount Kailash, in Tibet

Nick

Mount Kailash is extraordinary, whether or not you follow one of the four religions that hold this Tibetan Peak sacred. Trekking expert Marie Stissing Jensen told us about her own journey through the region...

The best cycling experiences in Asia

Steve

Selective Asia's expert road cyclist Steve shares his top destinations for a cycling holiday in Asia, or at least for adding an exhilirating ride into your trip...

Scenic treks around Inle Lake

Gemma

Selective Asia's Gemma describes her astonishing experience on a recent sailing trip through the remote islands of Myanmar's Mergui (Myeik) Archipelago...

The best beaches in Sri Lanka for...

Guest author

7 of the best honeymoon destinations in Japan

Guest author

Bagan’s most beautiful temples

Guest author

Here are a few tips for getting the best out of a Bagan temple tour, pinpointing some stunning stand-out examples and making sure you don’t get ‘templed out’...

Tranquil retreats in Sri Lanka

Guest author

Whether you’re searching for a rustic or luxury getaway, Sri Lanka offers plenty of tranquil resorts for you to escape it all.

6 top spots in Asia for a proper brew

Guest author

From Sri Lanka's amber Ceylon to Japan's emerald matcha, we’ve picked some of the best places in Asia to sit back and relax with a good cuppa…

Supporting communities while you're on holiday in Asia

Guest author

'Travel done right' can really benefit the communities and habitats we visit. Our Destination Specialists suggest a few great places where you can give back to the communities that you visit...

Four tranquil retreats in Thailand

Gemma

Where to go in Thailand with your kids

Guest author

Family holidays in Thailand offer an expert balance between fresh adventure and total relaxation in well-equipped surroundings. Our Destination Specialists have shared their favourite places to go in Thailand with kids...

Meaningful travel in Myanmar

Gemma

2018 has been another turbulent year for Myanmar, but the situation is far more complex than most international channels choose to portray. We shine a light into the shadows, share our in-country team's hard-won insights, and ponder ways to travel responsibly.

Five romantic honeymoon hotels in Japan

Guest author

Whether you're retreating to the mountains for a hot spring soak, or indulging your inner urbanite with a pied-à-terre in a fascinating city, our Japan Specialists can recommend the perfect hotel for a truly romantic honeymoon...

Picture-perfect places to spend Christmas in Thailand

Guest author

Christmas in Thailand is the perfect alternative to drizzle and that shopping frenzy. The festivities fall in the middle of high season, when Thai weather is at its best, from the beaches to Bangkok...

The best beaches in Myanmar

Suzie

Fulfilling travel should refresh as well as enrich, and a bit of downtime will let you recharge your batteries and reflect on everything you’ve seen. Choose a community-based beach resort to support some of the country's most deprived areas...

What to look for in a honeymoon hotel

Gemma

Many of our Destination Specialists spent their own honeymoons in Asia. Here they offer advice on where to stay to ensure that you have the perfect honeymoon experience...

Sri Lanka’s best scenic train journeys

Guest author

Sri Lanka is particularly blessed with visually stunning railway lines, which run through the mountainsides, connecting plantations and communities. We explore the finest of them all...

Japan's Matsuri festivals

Andrew

Alongside the major national holidays, most Japanese towns and villages have unique matsuri festivals which highlight their history, heart and soul...

Teahouse culture in Myanmar

Guest author

Myanmar's teahouses are excellent spots to catch an uncomplicated glimpse of everyday Myanmar life, as locals exchange news and views over a steaming brew. We spoke to our partners in the country to find out more...

Selective Six: Asian curries

Gemma

Six of our favourite Asian curries in honour of National Curry Week, complete with authentic recipes provided by our local teams in Asia...

Team travel journal: Nick's Tibet

Nick

'We were fast approaching the foot of the world’s largest mountain, feeling like we were arriving at the front door of Muhammad Ali and nervously pushing the doorbell...' Nick follows in the footsteps of his childhood hero.

Selective Six: camping, but not as you know it

Gemma

Selective Asia's product designer Gemma introduces six of the most sophisticated camping experiences you can find in Asia. Just nobody mention bunting...

A guide to food in Bhutan

Gemma

Gemma didn't know what she'd be eating in Bhutan - 'Bhutanese food' hasn't really made it to Western shores the way other Asian cuisines have taken off. Here's what you can expect...

The rhinos of Nepal

Suzie

We were excited to find that Nepal is home to a well-managed population of Greater One-Horned Rhinos, many of whom can be seen on jungle walks in Chitwan National Park. Find out more...

Team travel: Steve in Nepal

Steve

Our Nepal Specialist Steve braved the muddy monsoon on a recent accommodation inspection trip, but it was all worth it in the end, as he discovered the forward-thinking Famous Farm House in the heady heights of Trishuli valley...

Thailand destination focus: Fang

Guest author

Our Thailand Specialists Kate and Tash recently returned from a foray into northern Thailand, bringing news of a discovery: the extraordinary town of Fang...

Thailand... like it was 20 years ago

Guest author

If you’re looking for a place with the fresh-yet-timeless feel of Thailand 20 years ago, the best place to find it is still, well, Thailand...

A trek in Nepal

Guest author

Veteran trekker Mike describes one of his first experiences of trekking from Lukla to Everest Base Camp, in Nepal...

World Elephant Day

Gemma

Elephant populations have plummeted by 62% in the last decade - at this rate of decline, they'll be on the verge of extinction in another 10 years. As part of World Elephant Day, some of Selective Asia's team share their experiences of responsible elephant conservation projects across South-East Asia.

Trek to the Tiger's Nest, Bhutan

Gemma

We're confident that a trek to the Taktsang Monastery, aka the Tiger’s Nest, will blow you away, even if you've spent hours researching Bhutan. Gemma visited on a research trip before we launched Bhutan as a destination...

What makes Bhutan the happiest country in the world

Gemma

Gemma explores the remarkable state of general happiness that she witnessed first-hand on her first trip to Bhutan. What makes the Bhutanese so happy? Read on to find out...

Vietnam: home to the world's rarest rabbit (with photos!)

Guest author

Few things please us more than a cracking wildlife photo taken at one of our destinations, and these images make us especially happy. They were captured by the Viet Nature Conservation Centre (VNCC) in Khe Nuoc Trong forest, which we are supporting via the Selective Earth Programme in collaboration with World Land Trust (WLT), an international conservation charity...

Team travel journal: Lionel and Aaron in Laos

Lionel

Laos specialists Lionel and Aaron head into the Laotian countryside to describe how things have changed - if they've changed at all - since they first visited decades ago...

Suzie's first impressions of Cambodia

Suzie

‘Before my first ever trip to Cambodia, I was so focused on travel prep that I didn’t really sink into the pure unadulterated pleasure of ‘I’m going on an adventure!’ ..

Team travel journal: Ed in Papua, Indonesia

Ed

Our Indonesia specialist Ed went on a genuinely epic journey to explore Papua, an area of Indonesia where tribal life is still very much the same as it's ever been, minus a little headhunting. Despite managing to pull a tribal elder into the river, Ed lived to tell the tale! And very beautifully, too. Read on...

Our favourite Asian food vlogs

Guest author

Between trips to Asia, we love learning how to recreate our favourite Asian dishes at home. When we can’t be there to savour the flavours in person, these vlogs help bring back the tastes, scents and memories of our travels through Asia. Warning: do NOT attempt to watch food vlogs without snacks!

Vietnam’s little visited north: Ha Giang

Guest author

Although many of Vietnam’s visitors head to Sapa for a taste of hill tribe life and colourful markets, the more adventurous itineraries head much further north, to Ha Giang on the Chinese border...

A local’s guide to street food in Vietnam

Guest author

Vietnam is renowned for its love of food and adventurous attitude to eating, and street food is where the country’s carousel of flavours and ingredients is at its most vibrant. Take your lead from the locals and sniff out the very best street food from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City...

Living with unexploded ordnance in Laos

Guest author

It's a little too easy to view the 1960s as old news, but Laotians still live amongst unexploded ordnance (known as UXO) from the Vietnam War era. We’re taking a small group of clients to see Mines Advisory Group (MAG) in action in Laos, soon, so we wanted to learn about living with the UXO...

The hidden rivers of Asia

Guest author

Head off along Asia’s lesser-known rivers for unexpected delights, unspoilt scenery and unforgettable encounters. Switch off your phone, relax and let the river set the pace..

Japan: sake for beginners

Guest author

You heard it here first - sake is the new gin! A few of the Selective Asia team headed out (all in the name of research, you understand) to taste a selection of sake, and dig a little deeper into this slow-burning international sensation…

The transformation of Phnom Penh

Suzie

Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, has doubled its population in the last two decades. The city has transformed: modern towers are thrusting skywards, and investment pours in from across Asia and the corporate world. The city’s astonishing growth shows no sign of slowing, so we asked the PP residents in our Cambodia office to tell us what it’s like on the ground.

New hotels on the block

Guest author

From chic urban escapes to high-end beachside boutiques, spring has brought a flurry of Asia’s best new hotels to our attention. Take a peek at what makes the sharpest new properties worth sitting up and paying attention to...

Borneo wildlife: looking beyond the orang-utan

Suzie

The critically endangered orangutan has become the poster-child for vulnerable species in Borneo, but when asked to explain why its habitat should be protected, many people struggle for logical reasons. We looked to some of Borneo's other species for the answers...

Practical ways to reduce plastic waste on your Asia holiday

Guest author

The impact of plastic waste is big news, and it's even harder to reduce your plastic footprint when you're travelling in Asia. Here's what we're doing - and what you can do - to help...

Michelin-starred street food in Asia

Suzie

Here's our low-down on Asia's Michelin-starred streetfood treasures, along with some of our own hidden gems...

April Fool Special: 12 unusual theme restaurants in Asia

Guest author

Theme restaurants are booming, with each one vying to be more outrageously quirky than the competition. The results can be pretty stomach-churning and sometimes hard to believe - but which of our 12 unusual theme restaurants is the April fool?

Hanami: Japan's Sakura Blossom Season

Andrew

Pops of cherry blossom are beginning to appear across most temperate countries thanks to gifts of Sakura trees from Japan over the centuries. These days, they are a ubiquitous symbol of early Spring across the world, but we dare to ask… given the choice, where would you rather be: sat under a tree in Brighton with your meal deal triple sandwich, grab bag of crisps and can of ready-mixed G&T, or under another sky, a Japanese one, next to a delightful specimen of Prunus Yedoensis, being seduced by an exquisitely prepared bento lunch and Japanese craft beer? 

8 top hot spring resorts in Asia

Guest author

However dreamy our hotel hot tubs and jacuzzis may be, there’s nothing quite like a soak in one of nature’s own thermal spas. Our Destination Specialists enjoy visiting a hot spring (or ten!) on their travels, and have narrowed down eight of the best hot springs in Asia to help you choose yours. Enjoy mentally unwinding as you imagine stepping into that warm, mineral-rich water...

Honeymoons for teachers & couples travelling in school holidays

Guest author

For teachers, support staff and all those going on honeymoon during the school holidays, all it takes is a little canny planning to help you stay within budget, avoid the crowds and enjoy a honeymoon that’s perfect for you. Our Destination Specialists share their top tips to ensure that, whenever you travel, your honeymoon in Asia gets a gold star.

The excellent jazz festivals of Indonesia

Guest author

It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing, but it turns out that Indonesia got rhythm, and plays host to dozens of exhilarating jazz festivals throughout the year. There's nothing quite like dropping in on a local knees-up while you're visiting a place, so here's our selection of the best and brightest jazz festivals in Indonesia, Borneo and Singapore...

11 underrated UNESCO sites in Asia

Guest author

Many UNESCO sites in Asia are very famous, there are hidden gems on the list that are well worth getting to know. Here’s our pick of 11 underrated UNESCO sites in Asia that deserve your attention... 

2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan

Stephen

We'd hate to pass up an opportunity to give you the advantage, and we do try to tackle things head on, so our resident flanker Stephen has tailored an exclusive Rugby World Cup 2019 itinerary, based around the England Group Games with plenty of world class sight-seeing in between.

When and where to see cherry-blossom in Japan

Suzie

Cherry-blossom viewing is one of Japan's most famous things to do in springtime. Here's our guide to staying in the pink during the annual blossom season...

Team travel journal: Steve visits Orou Sapulot in Borneo

Steve

Our Borneo Specialist Steve tells of his spectacular visit to the remote Orou Sapulot community-based tourism project in the remote rainforest...

How to plan your honeymoon to Vietnam

Guest author

Vietnam remains firmly established as one of Asia’s top honeymoon destinations, and our experienced Vietnam Honeymoon Specialists take the pressure off the admin side of your honeymoon, leaving you with just the fun bits to think about. Here's their advice for getting started...

6 of the best East Asian restaurants in Greater Manchester

Guest author

When Selective Asia's writer Suzie isn't travelling in Asia, she likes to expand her horizons by exploring the Asian restaurants of Manchester, her hometown. Here she shares a few gems from her years of incredibly self-sacrificing research, which was - naturally - all undertaken entirely for your sake...

Best Asia destinations to combine with your Maldives holiday

Suzie

A few of our favourite ways to combine our diverse destinations with a moment of tropical bliss in the Maldives...

8 alternative bucket-list ideas in Asia

Guest author

Bucket lists should be full of places and activities that stay with you for all the right reasons... that take you out of your comfort zone, or provide moments of pure perfection. Sometimes these occur more readily on the less-trodden paths, so we've picked out a few alternative bucket list ideas in Asia, which give you all the buzz without having to jostle through crowds.

Selective Six: luxury ryokans

Guest author

Relaxing and romantic, traditional ryokan inns are an essential experience for any holiday in Japan. Our Destination Specialists have selected six of their favourite luxury ryokans...

11 Asia travel trends for 2018

Gemma

6 ways to celebrate Christmas in Japan

Kate Goulson

Although it's not a public holiday, the festive season in Japan is full of the holiday spirit, making Japan a great destination for an alternative Christmas break.

6 best places in Asia for an Easter family holiday

Guest author

Our Destination Specialists have plenty of experience helping to find the best family-friendly destinations in Asia with plenty of relaxation, culture, sunshine and smiles to bring home with you. Here’s our top pick of places that are just right for an Easter getaway...

Team travel journal: Martin in Borneo's Kelabit Highlands

Martin

Today's blog will detail Martin G's adventures in Borneo's Kelabit Highlands, and you will soon find out that they did not disappoint...

[UPDATED] The ethics of travel in Myanmar

Nick

We revisit our discussion about the ethics and wisdom of travelling to Myanmar.

12 eco-hotels for honeymooners

Suzie

From falling asleep to the sounds of the Sri Lankan wilderness to having breakfast with elephants, we’ve picked a few of our favourite alternative honeymoon hotels that have sustainability at heart.

9 hotels in Asia that you share with animals

Guest author

However many times we travel to Asia, we always get excited about the prospect of encountering some of the diverse and fascinating animal species that inhabit the region! Whether you dream of watching orang-utans in Borneo, feeding elephants in Thailand, or falling asleep to the soundscape of the Sri Lankan wilderness, we’ve picked a few of our favourite hotels where that wildlife will be right on your doorstep.

24 Hours in Ho Chi Minh City

Guest author

13 Superstitions from South-East Asia

Guest author

Mastering the Art of Eight Limbs: Muay Thai experience

Guest author

Thailand’s national sport isn’t merely a discipline of enormous skill executed at lightening speed; it’s one deeply ingrained in the country’s culture - and in devout principles of dedication, hard work and respect for both trainer and opponent. Martial artist David Leck travelled to Koh Samui to have a go... but was he tough enough?

A last minute honeymoon in Asia

Guest author

How late would you leave it to book your honeymoon? You may be surprised by how many people leave their honeymoon arrangements til the last minute... or perhaps you're one of them, and you're feeling a bit tense right now! Fear not - the Selective Asia team are old hands at putting together a perfect honeymoon with a couple of weeks notice. In one case we even did it with two days to spare! Although we don't recommend leaving it that late, here are our top tips for getting what you want from a lastminute honeymoon in Asia...

Team travel journal: Gemma's Sri Lankan wilderness camp

Gemma

Selective Asia's Product Manager Gemma is a lucky individual, often getting to try out new experiences before most other travellers have even heard of them. She says the novelty never wears off, and her recent trip into the Sri Lankan wilderness with Ahaspokuna Bushwalks Camp was particularly mindblowing...

The impact of tourism

Guest author

2017 is the UN's 'International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development'. It’s an awkward title, but it has spurred an important conversation; there’s a lot more to be done to protect the countries and habitats that we love. Selective Asia’s regular writer Suzie, who grew up in a tourist destination (albeit not one quite as exciting as Asia) explores what it means to be a ‘good tourist’.

Discover Asia's craft beer scene

Louise

Asia is currently in the midst of enjoying a boom in craft beer, so here we take a look at some of the places where you can enjoy these hand-crafted drinks, the people behind the brews, and not forgetting the local beer snacks to enjoy while you sip on your glass of amber nectar.

Our 15 most inspiring spiritual experiences in Asia

Guest author

Our Destination Specialists have picked out some of their favourite spiritual spaces where you can take time to pause and reflect...

Best places in Asia for a sundowner

Guest author

We’ve compiled a list of our favourite places in Asia for a sundowner, from the tops of skyscrapers to blissful beachside bars, so you can find your ideal spot…

Six of the best places in Asia to hang out with the locals

Guest author

One of the best ways to get to the heart of a place is to spend time with the people who live there, experiencing the rhythm of daily life. Our Destination Specialists learn a lot from chatting with the locals, sharing stories and getting the low-down on the best spots and sights off the beaten track. Your holidays will be enhanced if you do the same, so we’ve picked out six of the best places in Asia to hang out with the locals and get a taste of life outside the travel bubble.

6 places to taste 'Mama's cooking' on your holiday in Asia

Guest author

When you're travelling in search of new experiences, there’s nothing quite so comforting as a quality home-cooked meal. If you fancy trying Mama's cooking on your next holiday, try one of these places - some offer soulfood meals cooked by the real life family matriach, and others have built their reputations on recipes passed down through generations, and the freshest ingredients harvested from the family farm.

The best place for a beach in your Asia itinerary

Ed

Destination Specialist Ed shares some industry secrets on why it pays to be open-minded about the 'beach bit' of your Asia holiday...

24 hours in Singapore

Guest author

Although Singapore is most frequently a stopover destination on Selective Asia holidays, it's still worth exploring - but where to focus your time? Our Destination Specialists have shared their top tips for getting the most out of 24 hours in this impressive city...

4 ways Western culture has influenced South Korea

Guest author

We take a look at how Western culture has influenced South Korea, and point out just a few of the distinctive Korean twists on otherwise familiar things that you can see when you travel there...

Witness the artisan at work

Guest author

We’ve found a few experiences that give you a rare glimpse behind the scenes with Asia's master artisans...

12 of the best National Parks in Asia

Guest author

The Selective Asia Destination Specialists have picked a few of their favourite National Parks from across Asia to give you a little inspiration for your next holiday…

Vegan travel in Asia

Guest author

We’ve put together a quick guide to vegan travel in Asia to make sure you get the most out of your trip.

Team travel journal: Loikaw & Inle Lake

Claire

Our Destination Specialist Claire returns to Myanmar for a moving rediscovery of her old favourites, and finds plenty of fresh sights along the way...

Five food-lover’s facts about South Korean cuisine

Guest author

If you love food, you’ve probably encountered South Korean favourites like kimchi and bibimbap, but it’s astonishing how little of South Korea’s fantastic cuisine has made the jump to the west. We’ve relished learning more on our recent travels there, so here are a few tasty tidbits to whet your appetite...

Team travel journal: South Korea's DMZ

Annie

Our South Korea specialist Annie writes about her first impressions of the Demilitarized Zone, known as the DMZ, which buffers the border between South and North Korea...

Selective Six: best public gardens in Asia

Guest author

From flourishing tropical idylls bursting with exotic plants to serene mountain landscapes with space to breathe, the gardens of Asia are some of the most spectacular in the world. Take some time out of your busy itinerary to explore these little pockets of paradise.

Selective 6: best Asian restaurants in Brighton

Guest author

Down here on the sunny(ish) south coast, Brighton has an amazingly diverse population drawn from every corner of the world, which has resulted in a fantastic melting pot of cultures and cuisines. You’re never far from a great restaurant in this city, and that goes double for Asian food. Whether you’re looking for sushi or curry, ramen or pad thai, here’s our pick of the best Asian restaurants in Brighton...

Selective Six: lesser known Asian sports

Guest author

Which Asian sport is traditionally played barefoot, with a toughened coconut as a ball? Oh - and the coconut is on fire...

Dining with a cause in Asia

Guest author

We’re always on the lookout for innovative ways to give something back to the places we visit, and there are many restaurants in Asia putting these inspiring practises into action. Here are a few stand-out examples to get you started.

Travelling to Asia with a medical condition: how to prepare

Guest author

Travelling to Asia with a medical condition might seem a little daunting at first, but the right preparation and research can make your trip a stress-free reality. Being well prepared doesn’t rule out being spontaneous; if you enjoy taking each day as it comes, knowing all the options before you set off will make on-the-spot decisions that bit easier. Here are some tips for getting everything in place for a smooth trip.

Best places to go birdwatching in Asia

Guest author

We’ve picked out six of the best places to go birdwatching in Asia, where you can while away the hours observing fascinating birdlife as you indulge an existing passion or cultivate a new one...

Breakfasts of Asia

Guest author

We’ve picked out some of our favourite breakfasts from across Asia to inspire you to step away from the toaster and try something new...

Team travel journal: Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia

Stephen

It's a tough gig, but someone's got to do it! Our travel specialist Stephen just returned from a long trip around mainland South-East Asia...

South-East Asia’s water festivals

Guest author

Mid-April marks the end of the dry season for many of our destinations, & this is marked by New Year celebrations that typically involve getting soaked!

Team travel journal: Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Vietnam

Anna

The Selective Asia team is always on the go, discovering the best spots and experiences in Asia - follow their steps as they make their way through Asia.

10 interesting things we’ve eaten in Asia

Guest author

We admit to some of the more interesting things that we’ve eaten in Asia - but only nine of our confessions are true. Can you spot the April Fool?

7 exciting family adventure experiences in Asia

Guest author

We’ve picked out seven adventurous activities to give your family holiday in Asia that little something extra...

Selective Six: luxury Asia river cruises

Guest author

We’ve picked out six of our favourite river cruises through Asia to inspire you to try a little ‘slow living’ and see things from a different perspective.

Family travel in Asia: our team’s top tips

Guest author

Many of the Selective Asia team travel in Asia with their children, so they've put together some tips to help make it easier for you.

24 hours in Bangkok’s unexpected art scene

Guest author

Brighton-based artist Lee Baker shares his recent discoveries in Thailand's art world in this guide to exploring Bangkok’s best galleries and art scene...

7 tips for enjoying travel in monsoon season

Guest author

If our monsoon travel tips don't get you singing in the rain, perhaps they'll have you singing its praises a little more!

9 romantic surprise ideas for your Asia honeymoon

Guest author

All this Valentines romance has rubbed off on us, so here are our favourite inspirational ideas for extra-special surprises for your Asia honeymoon...

Sailing through Myanmar’s Mergui (Myeik) Archipelago

Gemma

Selective Asia's Gemma describes her astonishing experience on a recent sailing trip through the remote islands of Myanmar's Mergui (Myeik) Archipelago...

Gluten-free travel in Asia

Guest author

If you can't eat gluten but still love to travel, here's some advice for enjoying stress-free, gluten-free travel in Asia...

Best Asia destinations for family holidays

Guest author

Our guest panel of family travel bloggers share their first-person experiences of Asia as one of the world's best destinations for family holidays...

Top LGBT festivals in Asia

Louise

These are some of the better-known and biggest LGBTQ festivals in Asia, along with a couple of the smaller events that caught our eye...

9 gorgeous glamping experiences in Asia

Guest author

The Selective Asia team picks some of their favourite spots for glamping experiences in Asia, all guaranteed to tempt you out of hibernation mode...

InspirAsian | 6 resolutions that you’ll keep more easily in Asia!

Gemma

Selective Asia's resident gym bunny Gemma shares her insider info on the best places in Asia to turn your New Year's resolutions into a warm, sunny reality...

Selective Six: ‘New Year’ celebrations in Asia

Guest author

Although some places in Asia celebrate New Year on January 1st, many of our destinations celebrate at other times of year. Here are six of our favourites...

15 Asian streetfoods & snacks to reproduce at home

Guest author

Many Asian street foods and snacks are relatively simple to cook - here are the recipes we use we use to recreate dishes from our travels, with a few tips on how to get them just right.

12 ways to enjoy winter in Japan

Kate

Whether you fancy the novelty of skiing in Asia or a cosy hot spring spa in a superb snowy landscape, a winter holiday in Japan will warm you up in style...

6 best winter honeymoon destinations in Asia

Kate

We’ve picked six of the very best Asia honeymoon destinations for maximum sun, secluded relaxation and exhilarating adventure.

5 top places to see Borneo's wildlife in its natural habitat

Simon

To help you plan your wildlife holiday to Borneo, we've narrowed down the best places to see the island's famous creatures in their natural habitat.

14 unique honeymoon hotels in Asia

Gemma

A local's guide to Kanazawa

Annie

Selective Asia's Japan expert Tom tells Annie what it's like to live in Kanazawa, and how you can make the most of this historic Japanese city when you visit.

10 trends for travel to Asia in 2017

Gemma

From a newly discovered ancient wonder to brand new culture, the Selective Asia team predicts the most interesting Asia travel trends for 2017...

Selective Six: Cambodian hotels with cool back stories

Kate

Six fascinating places to stay in Cambodia which have all come about because someone took that leap and dared to make their ‘traveller’s dream’ a reality.

26 ways our travel experts prepare for long-haul flights

Guest author

To celebrate Selective Asia’s 10th birthday, we’ve decided to share our hard-won secrets for making long-haul flights more comfortable!

Selective Six: hands-on farming experiences in Asia

Gemma

We share six Asian farming & fishing experiences that'll take you right back to the source of some foods that most of us take for granted...

Hot spring etiquette: dos & don'ts for onsen & sento

Annie

Our quick guide to onsen etiquette will help you brush up before you take the plunge!

6 exciting ways to see aquatic wildlife in Sri Lanka

Lionel

Sri Lanka offers many excellent opportunities to see diverse aquatic wildlife up close. Today's Selective Six highlights some of the best available...

6 superb short adventures in Malaysian Borneo

Simon

Here are six of our favourite adventure experiences in Malaysian Borneo, chosen because they're excellent but also compact and adaptable...

6 foolproof excuses to spend your honeymoon in Bali

Anna

Selective Asia's Anna recently returned from her very satisfying honeymoon in Bali, so we talked her into sharing why the island was an ideal choice...

S6: quirkiest festivals in SE Asia

Gemma

We've selected six of the more unique and unusual festivals to enjoy while you travel through Asia...

Outstanding ancient cities in Asia

Guest author

If you’ve ‘been there, done Angkor’, here are six more ancient cities in Asia that deserve your attention....

Six stand-out private islands in South-East Asia

Nick

A look at the most stylish private (but accessible) South Asian islands where we've found accommodation that meets our rather particular standards...

Six cool places to drink Vietnamese coffee in HCMC

Guest author

We look at the nicest places to enjoy an iconic, sweet, & oh so stimulating Vietnamese coffee in Ho Chi Minh City...

Phong Nha - subterranean limestone cathedrals

Kate

Photos of astonishing Paradise Cave - which lies beneath Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, in central Vietnam - taken by SA's Kate on her recent trip...

6 short, sweet guides to South-East Asian etiquette

Guest author

Illustrator Iain Buchanan helps us create six South-East Asia etiquette posters, to help you blend in on your travels...

Selective Six: most impressive caves in South-East Asia

Gemma

SE Asia’s relationship with caves is far from extinct; many of its ancient caves are still active sacred sites. Here are the six of the most impressive...

Six places to see reliably mind-blowing sunsets in SE Asia

Guest author

Today's Selective Six lists our absolutely favourite places to settle into a comfy sofa or wiggle our toes under the sand to enjoy a fabulous Asian sunset...

Five great rooftop bars in South-East Asia

Guest author

Six of the finest rooftop bars for sunset cocktails in South-East Asia

Selective Six: snorkelling spots around Bali

Guest author

Guest blogger Bryony Holland, just returned from a trip around Indonesia, recommends the six best places to snorkel around Bali...

Five favourite glamping spots in South-East Asia

Gemma

We showcase six of South-East Asia’s finest camping, glamping and home stays...

Selective Six: South-East Asian festivals worth travelling for

Gemma

We take a look at six of South-East Asia's most spectacular festivals, including where and when they take place.

Nick finally reaches Mai Chau Valley...

Nick

Nick finally reaches some elusive - and breathtaking - areas of rural Vietnam

Returning home: how to hang on to your travel high

Nick

Do you get back from holiday full of beans, only to slump into old habits within a fortnight? We look at how to sustain that travel high after a trip...

Thary’s Khmer nuts - recipe

Guest author

Thalys, who helps run our Cambodia office, always sends us home with bags of these fantastic home-made nutty snacks. We persuaded her to share the recipe!

Selective Six: Nick’s authentic Thailand

Nick

The Thailand we know & love best; lush jungle, wooden yachts, limestone islands, Chinatown, and cookery lessons in the country’s idyllic rural north.

The map is not the territory: is the web killing travel?

Nick

Selective Asia's Nick looks at the web's impact on travel, and how we experience it. Is so much easy information useful, or simply stifling and biased?

Selective Six: best books to read in Thailand

Guest author

Book-seller and lifelong traveller Natalie recommends six books to read when you're in or en route to Thailand

Where to find authentic Malay food in Kuala Lumpur

Karl

KL boasts some of the world’s most fantastic cuisine, with many must-tries. We look at how to find authentic Malay food, from street stalls to fine dining.

Selective Six: must-do dive sites in Sri Lanka

Martin

Six of the best dive sites around Sri Lanka, chosen by Selective Asia's Sri Lanka Specialist Martin.

Exploring Cambodia's North-East

Nick

One of Selective Asia's UK team inspects some of the far flung corners of Cambodia. He claims it wasn't a holiday - we have our doubts!

Sabah's natural delights

Lionel

Lionel and Karl visit Borneo's eastern state of Sabah to discover more about the incredible wealth of natural delights the region has to offer.

Cambodia's up-and-coming South Coast

Nick

Selective Asia's Nick joins Valit to explore the up-and-coming south coast of Cambodia. All they have to do is decide how to travel.

Kicking back in southern Laos

Nick

Nick continues his journey from Cambodia into Si Phan Don - Laos' laid back 4000 Islands - and the Bolaven Plateau.

Deep dive into Angkor

Kate Goulson

We’ve put together this deeper look at the best of Angkor to help you to get the most out of your visit, explaining what you can expect, showcasing alternatives to the cookie-cutter excursions, uncovering immersive experiences nearby and offering up some of our favourite properties in the area that tick all the right boxes.