Far East

The Far East refers to countries of East Asia, namely China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore and Hong Kong. This part of the world dates back more than 6 millennia, and it shows. Steeped in history and intrigue, the Far East is a vibrant mix of old and new.

Indonesia
Indonesia is a collection of over 17 thousand islands in Southeast Asia. With a population of over 235 million people, it is the world’s largest archipelagic states. Lying between Java and Lombok, Bali is the largest tourist destination in the area. Renowned for being highly developed in the arts, Bali offers dance, paintings, sculptures, and music. Surrounded by coral reefs and blue lagoons, visitors can idle away the days on a soft sandy white beach, and party-away the night at a Balinese Festival. There are over 20,000 temples on the island, and they all celebrate something! Join in with the Barong, or Lion Dance or watch the Kecak, or Monkey Dance.

China
Beijing is the capital of the Peoples Republic of China (PRC). Dating back six millennia, it’s a city that’s steeped in history. Despite the turmoils of the past, Beijing still maintains to attract tourists from all over the world. Flying into Beijing International Airport, visitors can see some of the most important historical sites in the world. Tiananmen Square, The Forbidden City, The Great Wall of China … the list goes on. The Olympics are being held there in 2008, and the city is sure to attract many thousands of visitors.

Malaysia
Situated in Southeast Asia, Malaysia borders Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore and the Philippines. Malaysia is split into two regions by the South China Sea, The Malay Peninsula and Borneo. The capital, Kuala Lumpur, is a vibrant city that is home to the tallest twin buildings in the world, the Petronas Twin Towers. Why not visit the Batu Caves, North Kuala Lumpur? These caves are a sacred place for Hindu’s, and house a 42.7m statue of Lord Murugan.

Thailand
Thailand is in Southeast Asia; it has idyllic unspoilt beaches, white soft sands, and the deepest turquoise seas. This is a popular holiday destinations for backpackers and students. Many scholars these days are taking a gap year between universities, and this is the ideal place to experience the vibrancy of a different culture. The capital of Thailand is Bangkok. It is undoubtedly the best place in the world for travellers who wish to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. There are plenty of cheap and cheerful hotels and rooms available throughout the country, but Thailand has now started to cater for the more luxurious needs. Expensive, up market hotels are now popping up, and these are becoming a popular choice. Snorkelling, diving and a host of other water sports are very popular around the island.

Singapore
Singapore is an island nation, consisting of 63 islands, lying off the southern tip of Malaysia. Singapore is also the name of it’s capital, and is a vibrant, modern city, although it is steeped in culture and history. Singapore offers the holidaymaker a full calendar of events, including cultural celebrations and shopping bonanzas! Early summer is the time to grab a bargain, as the world famous Singapore Sale kicks in. Tourists flock in to the city and cash in on the competitive prices of electrical equipment, jewellery and leather goods. Many historical buildings can be found including the Empress Place Buildings and the luxurious Raffles Hotel. Most of the old Singapore has been demolished over the years, but Little India, Chinatown and the Arab Quarters all hold a little glimpse of the past. Bargain flights and holidays to Singapore arrive at Singapore Changi Airport, approximately 14 miles from the city.

Hong Kong
Hong Kong perches on the edge of mainland China. It used to belong to the UK, but was handed over to the People’s Republic of China in 1997. It’s a place where East meets West, traditional philosophy is practiced under a somewhat British culture. Traditional Chinese herbalists, who mix their ancient herbal medicines, can be seen sharing the same streets as English style pubs, MacDonald’s and a Catholic Church! Strictly bi-lingual all over, Hong Kong is the ideal place for British holidaymakers. Bargain package holiday deals and flights fly in to Hong Kong International Airport, near Lantau. Don’t forget to visit the Victoria Peak, a magnificent viewpoint where you can see central Hong Kong from 4459ft! The Western Market is well worth a visit too, this colonial building was erected in 1906 and houses a variety of shops and stalls selling allsorts of curious delights.

The Far East oozes with colour, culture and history. If you do get the chance to experience the Far East, try to combine a visit to as many of the countries as possible. Make sure that you follow protocol in each and every one though, as they don’t suffer fools lightly. Why not experience the 2008 Olympics in Beijing and then enjoy a Singapore Sling at Raffles in Singapore? There really are no limits as to what the adventurous traveller can do!