All in Destination Guides
Bahrain is a small country that doesn't have as much to offer visitors as most other Gulf states (aside from the annual F1 Grand Prix), but this oil-rich kingdom does have enough to see and do to fill 2-3 days of an itinerary touring the Middle East. If you are interested in ancient history, or local music, there may be reasons to stay longer, depending on the time of year.
Georgia is often called East Asia’s best kept secret because it is a destination that has much to offer older travellers. It is one of Asia’s newest democracies boasting beautiful scenery, easy mountain hikes, romantic cities, historic buildings, colourful churches, friendly people, a vibrant culinary scene and is home to one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world.
Cambodia has a sad recent history suffering bombings and genocide that has left it with infrastructure that is ill-equipped to handle the millions of tourists that visit each year. Nevertheless, if you’ve not visited this country before, it is worth doing so at least once, not only to see the UNESCO World Heritage listed Angkor archeological park but also to experience some of its many other interesting destinations.
South Korea is a country that has a lot to offer older travellers at any time of the year. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit for sightseeing its historic palaces and temples or hiking its scenic mountains and valleys. There are many winter resorts too for those looking for a holiday in the snow, and wellness destinations that are open all year round. It’s one of the safest countries in Asia and easy to get around.
Laos is one of the least visited countries in Southeast Asia but it has a lot to offer older travellers from the French colonial architecture of the old capital of Luang Prabang in northern Laos down to the present capital of Vientiane on the Mekong River, and the so-called tubing capital of the world, Vang Vieng, halfway in between. It’s a destination that will appeal to nature lovers and those that enjoy exploring the region at a slower pace.
Indonesia is the most populous and diverse country in Southeast Asia and the largest archipelago in the world. With spectacular mountains, tropical rainforests, pristine beaches, active volcanoes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and national parks teeming with wildlife, Indonesia is an alluring country for older travellers who have the time to explore it.
Myanmar is one of the two poorest countries in Southeast Asia after decades of being isolated from the rest of the world by a military dictatorship. However, millions of international tourists now visit Myanmar every year as it offers some unique experiences that can’t be found anywhere else in Asia. Its slow pace of life and friendly people make it an ideal destination for older travellers, especially for culture and history buffs.
Turkey attracts more overseas visitors than any other country in Asia, aside from China. For older travellers interested in the history and culture of Asia Minor, Turkey is a country not to be missed. But there’s more than places of historic interest within the borders of this culturally diverse country. There are affordable beach resorts, great shopping and culinary destinations, and natural attractions that are unique to Turkey.
Back in the 13th century, the Mongol Empire covered nearly half of Asia and Europe. Today the land of Genghis Khan is a shadow of its former self, but its rich history, stunning landscapes, nomadic cultures and friendly people attract visitors from around the world to see a part of Asia that offers a different travel experience. It’s an ideal destination for older travellers who may be looking for something to surprise them.
Thailand is one of the 10 most visited countries in the world, and the third in Asia after China and Turkey. Whilst it’s a magnet for younger tourists seeking sun, sand, bars and nightlife, it also has a lot to offer older travellers with its cultural sites and festivals, regional cuisines, tropical island hideaways and cool mountain regions that are accessible all year round. And for those into shopping, Bangkok has many world-class malls.
Senior travellers planning to visit India for the first time may feel overwhelmed by the sheer size of the place. It’s hard to decide which areas to visit and how much to try to see. It’s best not to try to cram too much in. Instead of rushing from here to there, day after day, a better approach is to choose one or two regions of interest, and spend most of the time there. This provides a chance to relax and savour the local atmosphere. This guide will help in making those choices.
Bhutan is in many ways an ideal destination for senior travellers. This little Himalayan kingdom has an unusual approach to tourism that is geared towards wealthier visitors. Backpacking is forbidden and budget travellers are discouraged. Those who choose to visit are rewarded with breathtaking scenery and a society that continues to embrace a traditional, unhurried way of life.
Since opening its doors to tourism in the mid-20th century, Nepal has become one of Asia’s top destinations. In recent years it has bounced back from civil war and a devastating earthquake to attract growing numbers of visitors. Among them are many senior travellers, who can delve into its culture and history while they enjoy its Himalayan scenery and exciting wildlife reserves.
Hong Kong has always been a popular stopover destination, and much can be seen and done within a couple of days, but this hardly enables visitors to scratch the surface of this many-layered, world-class city. Hong Kong is a destination that can be exceptionally rewarding for senior travellers who have the time to explore it further.
At first glance, the tiny nation of Brunei on Borneo island appears to have little to offer visitors. It’s prosperous but quiet, without the usual Asian urban bustle or the rollicking nightlife that many tourists crave. But this is precisely why some senior travellers will like it – combined with the fact that it has some fine tropical rainforests.
Malaysia has much to offer the senior traveller. From relaxing beach breaks to rainforest adventures, it provides a relatively safe environment for the holiday of one’s choice. English is widely spoken. The country often ranks high on lists of best places to retire to, an indication of its generally welcoming approach to older foreign visitors.
