Asia Tour

1.  Chiang Mai, Thailand

Many travelers prefer Thailand's pleasant northern capital over the hectic pace of life in Bangkok. Most of the tourist action happens within Chiang Mai's Old City, where orange-robed monks from the many temples smile as they pass.

From cultural festivals and sprawling night markets to mountain trekking and numerous temples -- Chiang Mai attracts over a million visitors annually who can't wait to come back.

2.  Penang, Malaysia

Known as the "Pearl of the Orient," Penang is a place to relax, eat to the brink of misery, and appreciate Malaysia in a new way. Malaysians are quite proud of their large island.

A legacy of immigration and colonization in Penang has produced what is arguably some of the best cuisine in all of Southeast Asia. Penang hawker foodcombines the best of Malay with influences from Chinese and Indian immigrants to produce mouthwatering creations.

Superb eating is not the only indulgence on the island. You'll find hip museums and art galleries along with plenty of other things to do in Penang. 

3.  Singapore

Notoriously expensive and needlessly shunned by backpackers and budget travelers, tiny Singapore is a modern-yet-green city/country well worth a visit for the food, mega-mall shopping, and unique blend of cultures.

Yes, Singapore costs far more than neighboring Malaysia or the rest of Southeast Asia, however, the city has a pleasant vibe, lively Indian and Chinese cultures, speaks good English, and is pleasant enough just to stroll. You could spend months living in Singapore and still discover hidden places and eateries the guidebooks have missed!

4.  Malaysian Borneo

Sabah, one of two states belonging to Malaysian Borneo, is a natural paradise. Plentiful rainforest,endangered orangutans, and indigenous cultures are certainly worth grabbing a cheap flight from Kuala Lumpur.

Sabah is the perfect balance between wild and developed. Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, is a happening tourist city in the shadow of toweringMount Kinabalu. When you've had enough shopping and cheap seafood, trade the concrete for East Sabah, where there are plenty of opportunities to experience Southeast Asia at its wildest.

5.  Islands in Thailand

Although some are too small to merit a dot on a map, the islands in Thailand are among the world's most beautiful. Imagine white sand and blue water, cheap diving, and your choice of isolated tranquility or savage nightlife -- all for far less than the cost of a trip to Hawaii.

The diversity of the Thai islands is amazing. Phuket and Koh Samui are developed, tourist hot spots with vibrant nightlife, while tiny Koh Lipe once barely maintained electricity. Beautiful Koh Lanta is the perfect compromise.