Destination Must-See's
India:
India is many things all at once. It dazzles the senses with color and sound and smell. It touches the soul with spirituality, tradition and ritual. It surprises visitors with its spontaneity and controlled chaos. It’s a place unlike any other and all who travel there should consider themselves very lucky indeed.
Japan
The “Land of the Rising Sun” has always captured the imagination of travelers, from the iconic image of Mt. Fuji rising up from the horizon to the quiet beauty of a garden tea ceremony. Ancient history is woven into the ultra-modern culture of Japan, with hundred-year-old Shinto shrines right next door to sleek modern buildings. What could be a culture clash ends up a beautiful harmony, showcasing where Japan has been, and where it is headed.
Vietnam:
Vietnam is a beautiful and exotic country that simply begs for exploration. It’s home to some of the healthiest, tastiest foods you’ll ever have, but the sights and sounds are just as big and beautiful as the flavors. From seascapes of limestone islands to incredible cave systems in nature and a bustling and colorful population, Vietnam is sure to keep you interested.
Destination Must-Do's
Cook in Vietnam:
Traditional Vietnamese cooking is admired for its fresh ingredients, minimal use of dairy and oil, and focus on herbs and vegetables to create flavor. It’s healthy and delicious! Travel to Vietnam and enjoy a cooking demonstration with a local chef. Explore the regional cuisine as much as you can.
Temples and Shrines in Japan:
Temples and shrines are found all over Japan, with most municipalities having at least one temple. (Kyoto has 1,200.) Temples are Buddhist places of worship, and they store and display sacred objects. They typically consist of a main hall, a lecture hall, a pagoda, gates, bells, and a cemetery. Some were monasteries in the past, and some still are. Shrines are Shinto places of worship. They are the dwellings of the kami, or Shinto gods. People visit shrines to pay respect to the kami, or to pray for good fortune. The approach to the shrine is marked by Torii gates; the komainu, a pair of guardian dogs or lions, is found on each side of the shrine’s entrance.
Witness the art of traditional Ama pearl divers:
Believed to be a 2,000 year old practice, the Ama (海女 “sea women”) were known to dive for shellfish and seaweed. These fascinating women were honored for their findings and their tradition has since been included on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Today, travelers can visit Ise-Shima, Japan to watch these skilled divers search the sea floor for shellfish and pearls.
Visit the Taj Mahal in Agra, India:
The Taj Mahal in Agra is often called the greatest monument ever built to eternal love. It is considered the most aesthetically perfect structure in the world and is made entirely of brilliant white marble. The Taj Mahal was constructed by Shah Jahan, a forlorn emperor in memory of his favorite wife who died in childbirth. All who visit stand in total awe of its beauty and size.
Expert Advice
Featured Tours to Asia
Mysteries of India
Wonders of Thailand Discovering Ancient Wonders and Natural Beauty from Bangkok to Phuket
Cultural Treasures of Japan
Kingdoms of Southeast Asia Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand
Iconic Israel
Japan: Past & Present A Cultural Journey from Tokyo to Osaka
Journey Through Egypt and Jordan
Spectacular South Africa
