From its aromatic street stalls and meticulously designed temples to its otherworldly nature, a trip to Asia is always one for the books.
The question always boils down to “where” and “when,” not “how” or “why.”
Experts at TimeOut did the hard work for us, revealing the answer to both: now, and these 3 incredible destinations speckled across the continent.
To be honest, none of them are likely where you expect them to be, but all are practically overflowing with cultural delights and unforgettable experiences in their own right.
PLUS: We’ve built an interactive quiz for you at the end of this article to find out which one is perfect for you, so stick around!
Shanghai: Are Travelers Embracing China Again?
After Brad Pitt pulled a real-life Benjamin Button and suited up as an F1 driver, one of the world’s fastest-growing sports has transcended cultures and continents, even to a country that’s largely been shunned, particularly by Americans.
It’s not just Miami and Austin anymore. Shanghai has entered the chat, hosting the thrilling race each spring.
This year’s event has already zoomed by, but there’s still time to enjoy a late spring adventure into one of the world’s top old-versus-new cities.
One moment you can be gawking at modern marvels, the next you’re bearing witness to Old City temples, hopping aboard a “Venice” boat ride, and scoping out alleyway vendors that have held shop for decades.
But as much of a culture shock as Shanghai may be, the question travelers want to know is:
Is it safe?
Obviously, China’s tourism took a dive during and after the global pandemic. Additional security alerts and common annoyances of having to pay for everything digitally as well as needing a VPN for guilty pleasures back home haven’t helped either.
But, what about now?
The State Department has since reversed harsher designations, downgrading to a common Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution status.
Here’s what travelers are saying:
Fukuoka: Japan’s New Hotspot & Springboard To Unsung Paradises
We’re not ready to say “move over, Tokyo”, but we’re ready to say Fukuoka is Japan’s newest hotspot.
Backed by TimeOut, there’s no better spot to visit before summer kicks off.
Less frequented and gleaming with the same photo-popping cherry blossom streetscape, there’s also a burgeoning food scene stealing some of Tokyo’s tourists for its lip-burning bowls of tonkotsu ramen.
Better yet, if you thought Tokyo’s Park Hyatt, made famous by Lost in Translation and Parts Unknown, that’s because you haven’t had the chance to stay at Fukuoka’s Ritz Carlton.
That said, this gem of a city is not nearly as expensive. You can find 4-star hotels with double-digit rates.
What’s most impressive of all is what lies beyond the city…
Tokyo isn’t the only springboard in Japan. Fukuoka plays the role seamlessly, especially being Japan’s fastest-growing destination as well — at least according to TripAdvisor.
You see, Fukuoka lies on the Northern Coast of Kyushu. Japan’s third largest island is worthy of its own paragraph, but hey, we’re on borrowed time here…
Finding new fame from TripAdvisor, this lush island of waterfalls, hot springs, and volcanic black-sand shores beyond the city is more of a cardinal sin not to visit if you’re nearby than it is to answer a phone call on the Tokyo metro.
As you might imagine, the rest of Kyushu is super-easy to explore from Fukuoka by train, making it a breeze to branch out beyond the city and into more of the island’s wellness tourism draw and surprisingly stunning beaches — all without having to fly into the world’s most unfortunate airport code (FUK).
Best of all, no matter where you are in Japan, the country is largely viewed as extremely safe — minus last year’s odd alert issued by the U.S. Embassy regarding wild bear attacks.
Here’s what travelers are saying:
Luang Prabang: Laos Is Ready To Blow Your Mind
One of Laos’ most captivating cities never seems to get its due.
Come to think of it, Laos in general doesn’t either in the western world…
But TimeOut is right — Luang Prabang is an incredible late spring adventure, trickling into summer as well if timed right.
Commonly compared to Thailand in terms of scenery, culture, and perhaps even more affordability now as more travelers complain about price hikes across the board, that’s not a worry in one of Southeast Asia’s best kept secrets.
While you just missed out on perhaps the most endorphin-boosting festival in the world, Pi Mai, we’re pretty confident saying your endorphins will still spike when you’re wandering gilded temples, cooling off at Kuang Si Falls, and watching the Mekong glow at golden hour — all bucket-list worthy if you ask us.
You’ll want to get a move on making plans to avoid its unbearable monsoon season. While we’re sipping margs poolside under the gleaming sun, Laos is experiencing heavy rain during our summer.
There are no nonstop flights from the U.S., but many travelers double-dip countries whether it be Thailand or neighboring Cambodia as well.
Laos is another country with fairly recent security alerts issued by the Embassy, currently holding ‘Level 2′ status like China.
Here’s what travelers are saying:
Now take this quiz to find your perfect match!
Question 1 of 3
What is your primary travel goal?
Question 2 of 3
Which vibe appeals to you the most?
Final Question
How do you feel about safety alerts?
Your Match: Shanghai
The Old-Versus-New Giant
Why It Fits: You crave the fast-paced life. From F1 races to “Venice” boat rides, Shanghai offers a deep cultural shock with a safe ‘Level 2′ designation.
Your Match: Fukuoka
Japan’s Newest Hotspot
Why It Fits: You want Japan’s efficiency without Tokyo’s prices. It’s a springboard to Kyushu’s waterfalls and hot springs, all while being incredibly safe.
Your Match: Luang Prabang
Laos’ Captivating Secret
Why It Fits: You want to beat the monsoon season and explore Southeast Asia’s best-kept secret. It’s bucket-list worthy scenery without the resort-town price hikes.
Stacie Harris is a local resident and reporter of the Maple Grove area. Stacie reports on medicine and science for the Maple Grove Report.
