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ASIA
DISCOVER JAPAN - WHERE TRADITION AND MODERNITY MERGE PERFECTLY Japan, a land of contrasts, offers travellers an unforgettable journey through time and innovation. From ancient temples to cutting-edge cities, this island nation in East Asia is a treasure trove of unique experiences that captivate the heart and mind. Whether drawn to its serene landscapes or vibrant urban centres, Japan promises to captivate you at every turn.
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Top Reasons to Visit Japan
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Rich Cultural Heritage
Explore Japan’s deep-rooted traditions with visits to ancient shrines and temples such as Kyoto’s Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Tokyo’s Senso-ji. Experience the grace of a tea ceremony, admire the beauty of kimono-clad locals, or witness the spectacle of sumo wrestling. -
Breathtaking Natural Beauty
Japan's diverse landscapes range from the snow-capped peaks of the Japanese Alps to the iconic silhouette of Mount Fuji. During cherry blossom season (March–April), parks and riversides transform into picturesque pastel scenes, while autumn paints the countryside in vivid reds and golds. -
Culinary Excellence
Japanese cuisine is a journey in itself. Savor sushi and sashimi at local markets, indulge in a hearty bowl of ramen, or try regional specialties like Osaka’s takoyaki and Hiroshima’s okonomiyaki. For the adventurous, sample fresh seafood at Toyosu Market or experience kaiseki, a multi-course Japanese dinner. -
Cutting-Edge Cities
Tokyo, the bustling capital, dazzles with towering skyscrapers, neon-lit streets, and a futuristic vibe. Dive into Akihabara’s gaming culture, shop in Shibuya, or find serenity in the Imperial Palace gardens. Meanwhile, Osaka offers a lively food scene, and Hiroshima stands as a poignant reminder of history. -
Unique Experiences
Ride the world-famous Shinkansen (bullet train) for seamless travel across the country. Bathe in an onsen (hot spring) surrounded by nature, stay in a traditional ryokan, or witness the ethereal glow of Kyoto’s Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
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​​​When to Visit
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Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms and mild weather make this the most popular season.
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Summer (June–August): Vibrant festivals like Gion Matsuri in Kyoto and spectacular fireworks displays.
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Autumn (September–November): Stunning fall foliage and pleasant temperatures.
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Winter (December–February): Powdery snow in Hokkaido, relaxing hot springs, and illuminations in cities.
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Why Japan Should Be on Your Bucket List
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Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, nature enthusiast, or tech lover, Japan offers something extraordinary for everyone. The country’s harmonious blend of old and new creates a mesmerising travel experience that will linger in your memory long after your visit.
Plan your Japanese adventure today and uncover the magic of this incredible destination.
Please follow this link to an article about our trip to Japan.
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DISCOVER NORTH VIETNAM!
North Vietnam has it all. Breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil landscapes of Sapa and the stunning Halong Bay, North Vietnam offers a tapestry of unforgettable experiences for travellers seeking a unique adventure.
Hanoi
Begin your journey in Hanoi, a city where the old and new seamlessly intertwine. Explore the Old Quarter, with its narrow streets lined with traditional shops, cafes, and street food vendors. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, and Hoa Lo Prison Museum to discover Vietnam’s fascinating history.
Don’t miss a chance to enjoy the food. Have a bowl of pho or savour the flavours of bun cha paired with a glass of egg coffee at a local café.
Halong Bay: A Masterpiece of Nature
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is a must-visit destination in North Vietnam. This stunning seascape is best explored on an overnight cruise. Kayak through hidden lagoons, visit floating fishing villages, or simply relax on the deck and enjoy the enchanting views.
For those seeking a less-travelled path, Bai Tu Long Bay offers a quieter but equally alluring experience.
Sapa - Majestic Mountains and Tribal Culture
Nestled in the Hoang Lien Son mountains, Sapa is a magnet for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts. Trek through terraced rice fields, past waterfalls, and into remote villages inhabited by ethnic minority groups such as the Hmong, Dao, and Tay. The Sapa Market is a great place to shop for handicrafts and immerse yourself in local traditions.
Visit during the harvest season (September to November) for perfect landscapes of golden rice terraces.
The Cultural Richness of North Vietnam
A trip to North Vietnam is also about discovering its people and culture. Traditional water puppet shows, colourful festivals, and markets bursting with life showcases are must-sees. Connect with locals, learn their stories, and bring home memories that last a lifetime.
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Besides private tailor-made itineraries, we also offer small group tours to North Vietnam with Intrepid Travel including cycling, hiking, kayaking, family orientated (children over five years of age and teenagers) and food tours.​
WHY KYRGYZSTAN? This central Asian country is popular with travellers looking for culture, hospitality and off the beaten track adventure. The landscape is epic and the locals extremely hospitable. It is an easy country to visit, but not many do. Kyrgyzstan is one of the least visited of the ‘Stans', despite being one of the most affordable and friendly to visit. Visitors from Malta can stay for up to 60 days without having to obtain a visa.
The main tourism highlights are accessible and inexpensive, it’s easy to get away from the few places where tourists congegrate and authentic experiences of nomad life, post-Soviet life and animal life can be had at every step.
Kyrgyzstan's male headgear was in the news recently after it was put on Unesco's cultural heritage list.
Kyrgyzstan has few historical sites thanks partly to a nomadic culture (although nowadays there are only a few people left living a truly nomadic lifestyle) but it makes up for this by having lots of mountains and epic landscapes.
What to experience? One should Stay in a Yurt which are the Shepherd shelters seen all over the country . Kyrgyz culture is a folk culture - dynamic, living, intangible. You cannot understand it by looking at a building. One can only experience such a culture, and a yurt stay is one of the best ways to get a taste of it.
Kyrgyzstan is perhaps the best place in Central Asia to go horse riding. Join the locals and take a trek lasting from 1 hour to 10 days in the plains, high pastures, mountain passes and gorges for an unforgettable journey.
Trek through the Celestial Mountains (also called the Mountains of Heaven) – the little-visited Tien Shan, with their alpine meadows, glaciers, summer pastures and snowy peaks.
The cuisine of Kyrgyzstan is a mixture of Central Asian and Russian, although Korean food is widespread too.Tea (chai), either green or black, is the most common beverage while the most common alcoholic drink is - vodka! Moldovan and Georgian wine are also available.
Kyrgyzstan is safe for visitors but, again take the usual commonsense precautions.
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SINGAPORE used to be thought of as a side-trip or stopover destination but is now considered as a destination in its own right. It is ranked as one of the wealthiest countries of the world and there’s something for everyone!
Top attractions include among others the street food hawker centres, the Singapore Zoo and night safari, Botanic Gardens, Little India, Sentosa Island and Orchard Road. You can even go hiking the trails at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.
Singapore also boasts the best airport in the world. Highlights include the world’s tallest airport slide, a forest-themed playground, arcade games, rooftop swimming pool, cactus garden and sunflower garden and so much more…such a pity that flights are hardly ever delayed :-)
Last but not least, as the world’s population is rapidly ageing, disability is becoming more and more of an important issue. Businesses and the tourism industry are beginning to realise that this is also a major factor when planning a trip. Stepless access to most buildings and no shortage of kerb cuts makes Singapore the most accessible city in Asia for anyone who may be motor or visually impaired. The question in Singapore is not “what is accessible” but rather “what isn’t”!
