New for 2022: Southeast and East Asia travel trends
As we slowly make our way out of the pandemic and into the Year of the Tiger, we’re all looking forward to a time when we can get away from the everyday and venture out into the world once more. And if you’re anything like us, once restrictions are eased and borders re-open, you probably won’t need too much encouragement to head out on that long-awaited trip!
However, before that happens, we thought you might want a heads-up on some excellent reasons to consider getting ‘beneath the surface’ of Southeast and East Asia in 2022. Here’s what we’re excited about experiencing this year...
Slower, longer, better
People are looking to make more of the opportunity to travel, travelling less, but going further, booking longer trips, wanting to experience a different culture, and willing to try somewhere new.
Experience slow travel in Pu Luong, Vietnam
You don’t have to travel far from Hanoi to find rolling rice terraces, local village life and the opportunity to explore some beautiful countryside. You've probably heard of Sa Pa – but have you heard of Pu Luong? It’s just the place to get away from it all.
Sustainable train travel
Although trains can’t always be relied upon in some countries (UK, we’re looking at you), in some places, rail is the best and most environmentally friendly way to travel. After all, the journey is all part of the experience!
Experience sustainable train travel in Laos
Not only has Laos announced that it’ll be opening its borders to the vaccinated world from January, but it’s also launched its first ever electric passenger train – slashing journey time from Vientiane in the south, to the Chinese border in the north.
The old favourites...
That big trip may have had to be postponed for a couple of years thanks to the pandemic – but no more! 2022 is a big opportunity to visit that must-see place you’ve spent 2020 and 2021 dreaming about.
Experience a classic Asian destination: Cambodia
The 900-year-old Angkor Wat is the largest religious structure in the world – and there’s very good reason why it, and the temples surrounding Siem Reap, is the most visited place in the Khmer kingdom.
Getting just off the radar
While it'll be a joy to see Asia’s most famous sights and destinations again, there’s also something really exciting about the idea of venturing off the beaten track to find special getaways that few people know exist. We have lots of favourites to share!
Experience off-the-radar travel in South Korea
You probably weren’t expecting us to suggest a whole country, but South Korea has (arguably) been sitting just off radar for many years. However, with its mix of cities, mountains, beaches, rich culture and incredible food – and a growing worldwide interest in all things Korea – it won’t stay unexplored for long...
Let’s face it – we're all a little tired of the same old routine following the pandemic. The good news is, 2022 will be the year to go beyond our comfort zone, get beneath the surface and try something new and enlightening.
Embracing something new
Experience new things in Malaysian Borneo
The largest island in Asia, Borneo is blessed with diverse landscapes, wildlife and friendly indigenous people. Deep in the jungles of Sabah, there’s the opportunity to stay with the Murut community – and to help support their traditional culture and way of life.
Keeping it in the family
After everything Covid has thrown at us, that next family trip is going to be the best ever – creating memories for kids, parents and grandparents alike. It’s about time we got back to embarking on travel experiences that will stay in our family histories forever!
Experience family travel in Thailand
A good family destination needs something for everyone. Thailand is renowned for its tropical island beaches, but there's also jungle, wildlife, big cities, history, and rich culture to explore. Deep in the rainforest, a stay on Cheow Lan Lake in Khao Sok National Park will be memorable for so many reasons.
Travel is about new experiences, places, and people – and our destinations offer so much more than your average holiday. Post-pandemic, many of us now appreciate what a privilege travel is, so let us help you make the most of it! Get in touch with one of our Travel Consultants to discuss your plans, and we’ll create a bespoke trip just for you.
Take a look at the InsideJapan blog for reasons to travel to Japan in 2023.
