All by David Astley
Muscat, the capital of Oman, is probably the most relaxing and laidback of the capital cities in the Gulf region of the Middle East. It has also retained more of its history and traditional culture than other cities. It has one of the oldest markets in the world and there are some excellent walking tours of the old city.
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.
During periods that we are unable to travel because of coronavirus lockdowns, closed borders or quarantine restrictions, there is only one way to satisfy the travel bug — and that’s through virtual travel from our computers and tablets. We take a look at which websites offer the best virtual travel experiences for when we are stuck at home.
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.
With thousands of international travellers still stranded in Asia, those affected are placing the blame squarely on airlines who prematurely cancelled flights and provided no alternative options for them to get home. Slow and disorganised responses by some governments in mounting repatriation flights have also come in for criticism. However, with death tolls still increasing in the U.S. and some European countries, some travellers have decided to sit out the pandemic in Asia.
Many older travellers who have spent their lives visiting countries in different parts of the world look for new places to visit to which they have not been before – particular during the years when they are ticking off a ‘bucket list’ of places that they want to see whilst they are still fit enough to travel. North Korea is a not destination that everyone will want to visit, but for those who do, it can be a travel experience like none other.
The so-called mystical island of Siquijor in the Philippines is popular with divers and backpackers from around the world. It’s the location of some of the best dive spots in the Philippines, and provides backpackers with opportunities for cheap food and lodgings and long nights partying on the beach. But what does Siquijor have for older travellers who may not be into diving and partying? We take a look at what else there is to see and do on this tropical island.
A circumnavigation of the northern island of Luzon is considered by many to be the grandest of road trips that can be undertaken in the Philippines. It takes about a month to do properly and is generally done in two circuits – one to the north of Manila and one to the south. This comprehensive guide to the northern circuit will help those wanting to do the trip to plan their itinerary and not miss any of the most interesting sights along the way.
The Philippines is a country rich in history. For those interested to learn more about its heritage and culture, there are a number of destinations that are particularly suited to older travellers as they provide the opportunity to visit historic landmarks at an easy pace. This comprehensive guide to what these places have to offer, how to get there and what to see, will assist travellers contemplating or planning a ‘heritage holiday’ in the Philippines.
Paintings make great souvenirs to bring home from a trip to Asia. They not only serve as a reminder of places that you’ve visited, but will look great on the walls of your home. Original paintings may appreciate in value and are a better buy than reproductions. Our guide to buying art in Asia tells you where the best places are to buy original paintings, how to transport your paintings home, and where to see the best art if you aren’t in the mood to buy yet.
Asia is one of two continents where there is a higher risk of contracting rabies than elsewhere in the world. Rabies is a serious disease because it is almost always fatal if not treated. Therefore it is important for travellers to know how transmission can occur and what action to take in the event that they come into contact with a rabid animal. If promptly treated, rabies is 100 percent curable.
There are only 10 countries in Asia that allow travellers to use camera drones without a permit. In about 20 others, the process of acquiring permits ranges from relatively easy to extremely hard. In many others, recreational flying of drones is banned. Even in countries where drones are permitted, there are many no-fly zones and regulations that have to be followed. Penalties for breaching drone laws can be heavy fines or even imprisonment. This article summarises where you can and cannot fly drones in Asia.
Asian countries comprise the majority of the countries on which travellers are searching for information online. That may come as no surprise given the diversity of the continent and the large number of year-round holiday destinations. But what may be a surprise are the names of the countries that are showing the biggest increases in interest. They are not all ones you might expect!
