Southwest Asia includes the states of the Near and Middle East with an ancient history and predominantly Muslim culture. The exception is Israel, a country of immigration and widespread Judaism with its shrines. Historically, the city of Jerusalem is currently located in Israel, where the shrines of three religions are located: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. This, on the one hand, attracts a large number of tourists, partly pilgrims, and on the other, creates the ground for constant conflicts, which also affects the scale of tourism.

In the countries of this zone, the attention of tourists is attracted by the warm sea (especially the Mediterranean, washing the shores of Turkey, Cyprus, Lebanon, Syria, Israel), and the subtropical climate. Lovers of educational tourism are attracted by ancient cities or their ruins, numerous cities with their historical and cultural heritage - Istanbul (Turkey), Amman (Jordan), the ancient cities of Lebanon Baalbek, Saida, as well as the organizing tourist center of Beirut, Nicosia (Cyprus), Iranian cities Tehran, Esfahan, Shiraz, Hamadan, etc.

Certain countries of the Arab East, as well as Turkey, attract many “shuttles” - participants in shopping tours. Afghanistan has interesting tourism opportunities, but the events of recent decades make it impossible to use them. South-West Asia includes the following tourist macro-regions: Cyprus and Turkey, Palestine, Arab states (Middle East), Middle East.

Cyprus is a state located on island of the same name in the northeastern part of the Mediterranean.

Cyprus first gained independence in 1960, but in 1974 Turkish troops landed on the island. After this, the northern territory of the country went to Turkey. There are no diplomatic relations between the Greek and Turkish parts. The Turkish part is closed to entry from the Greek side.

The territory of the Greek part of the island (Republic of Cyprus) is 5.9 thousand square meters. km, Turkish part (Northern Cyprus) - 3.35 thousand sq. km. The coast of the island in the northern part is rugged and rocky, the south of the island is flat, with long sandy beaches. In the center and southwest of the island is the vast old volcanic massif of Troodos ( highest point- Mount Olympos, 1951 m). Between the mountains lies the vast and fertile valley of Mesaoria.

Cyprus in ancient times was the center of Mediterranean trade, which led to the mixing of cultural monuments of all European civilizations on its land. The capital of the country is Nicosia with the Center for Applied Arts located there, the Archbishop's Square with the Archbishop's Palace, the Gate of Ammochostos and the Statue of Liberty, the Archaeological Museum, the Venetian fortress walls (XVI century) with the Famagusta Gate and the ring of the Municipal Park outside, the Church of Chrysaliniotissa, built in 1450, the Omeriye Mosque , the churches of Trypiotis and Faneromeni, cathedral ev. John, built in 1662.

Limassol It is best known for its beaches, the Medieval Museum, old castles, and wine production. Monuments Larnaca are Larnaca Fortress (1625); Jami Kebir Mosque; church ev. Lazarus; Laiki Getonya (one of the ancient quarters); Church of Angeloktistos; the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque (1816), one of the main Muslim shrines (since Umm Haram, the aunt of the Prophet Muhammad, is buried here); aqueduct (used for its intended purpose until 1939); Catholic Cathedral Sofia (XIII century); Archaeological Museum; royal chapel ev. Katerina.

Within the resort Pathos interesting Port Fortress, Paphos Mosaics, included in the world register cultural heritage UNESCO, Panayia Limeniotissa, Odeon Theatre, Catacombs. Solomonia, Royal Tombs, Church of Chrysopolites and Column of St. Paul, "House of Theseus", "Villa

Dionysus", Aphrodite beach, Smolensk Bay, the ancient Roman city of Curium with its Greco-Roman theater, Kolossi Castle. Monuments of ancient culture in Salamis are the tomb of St. Catherine, Costello Castle in Famagusta, gothic cathedral St. Nicholas.

Sea resorts Cyprus are Limassol, Protaras, Lara Beach with a breeding station sea turtles, Latchi, Cape Greco, Polis, numerous beach resort complexes on the southwest coast. Mountain chain Troodos, where the summer residence of the President of Cyprus is located, provides opportunities for mountain tourism.

Turkey is a state in southeastern Europe and Western Asia, with a total area of 780.6 thousand square meters. km and a population of 80 million people. Capital - Ankara. In the north-west it borders with Bulgaria and Greece, in the north-east - with Georgia and Armenia, in the east - with Iran, in the south - with Iraq and Syria. In the north it is washed by the Black and Marmara seas, in the south - by the Mediterranean Sea, in the west - Aegean Sea. The European part of Turkey (Eastern Thrace, or Rumelia) is a hilly plateau about 1000 m above sea level. The Asian part (Asia Minor, or Anatolia) is limited mountain ranges The Pontic Mountains in the north and the Taurus system in the south, between which are the Anatolian Highlands (average height up to 1000 m), with river valleys and cones of extinct volcanoes in the east.

Turkey attracts recreational tourists: the coastal areas (along the Mediterranean, Aegean, Marmara, Black Seas) are known for their favorable conditions (warm sea, subtropical climate), which contributed to the emergence famous resorts Antalya, Alanya, Kemer, Belek, Side, Izmir, Marmaris, etc. (Fig. 9.1). There are resorts in the interior of Turkey known for their mineral springs. For example, the springs near the city of Bursa were used by the Byzantines. Lovers winter holiday attract modern ski resorts Palandoken, Uludag, etc.

But, of course, Türkiye is also famous for its historical and cultural values. Many of them are concentrated on the shore

Conventional signs Excursion centers ^ Ski resorts A Seaside resorts

Borders of tourism

recreational areas

Tourist and recreational

1 Marmara Sea Region
2 Aegean Sea region
3 District Mediterranean Sea
4 Central Anatolia
5 Black Sea region
6 Eastern Anatolia
7 Southeastern Anatolia

Rice. 9.1. Tourist and recreational centers of Turkey

Chapter 9 international tourism in Asia

Bosphorus Strait Istanbul(in the past - the capital of Byzantium, Constantinople, in ancient Russian documents - Constantinople). The transformation of an Orthodox Byzantine city into a Muslim city changed its appearance: Orthodox churches turned into mosques. There are many of them, therefore there are many minarets. Most famous temple- an outstanding work of Byzantine architecture, Hagia Sophia. There are also museums in Istanbul, including archaeological (with the sarcophagus of Alexander the Great), antiquity, conquerors, Muslim art, etc., the Church of St. Irene, choral monastery church, church Holy Mother of God, mosques - Ahmed (Blue Mosque), Mikrimakhi, Selim the Conqueror, Bayazid, Suleiman, Eyup, underground palaces-reservoirs, the remains of a Byzantine fortress. In the 20th century Istanbul is largely Europeanized.

Other centers of educational tourism in Turkey: capital Ankara(where ancient buildings and the mausoleum of the founder of modern Turkey Ataturk (Kemal Pasha) are located; the birthplace of Homer Izmir, which is famous for its antiquities and annual fairs; Bursa, Adana, Erzurum with their ancient monuments and numerous mosques. Aspendos is a city created by colonists after the Trojan War , in which there are many beautiful buildings, including the theater-palace of the architect Zeno (II century) and the Roman arched aqueduct; Myra is the ancient capital of Lycia, the “land of light rays,” famous for its necropolis, carved into the rocks, as well as the church of St. Nicholas, a place of pilgrimage for Christians. There are many nature reserves- Olympos-Beydaglari, Munzur-Vadisi, Koprulu Canyon, etc.

Most of Turkey is plateaus and Not high mountains, which in the east of the country turn into high mountain areas. There is the Ararat massif, sacred to the Armenians (but located in Turkey after the First World War), where, according to biblical legend, Noah completed his journey, and the large and picturesque Lake Van. So in the east of Turkey there are many elements of natural attractiveness™. However, for now this one is undoubtedly potentially resort area little mastered.

Palestine. This macro-region includes the State of Israel, populated predominantly by Jews (natives and immigrants), and Arab territories who have been fighting for the creation of an Arab Palestinian state for many decades.

The territory of Palestine has seen many historical events in its lifetime. Suffice it to say that the very first city in the world was discovered in the Jordan Valley - Jericho (“city of dates”), which is seven thousand years old.

Jerusalem, the city of three historical faiths (Jewish, Christian and Muslim) attracts the largest number of tourists. Among the historical and cultural monuments, it is enough to name the Jewish Western Wall, Christian shrines - the Chapel of the Holy Sepulcher, Golgotha, where Christ was crucified, the rock where he prayed (and many more places associated with evangelical subjects). According to Islam, the Muslim prophet Muhammad later ascended to heaven from the rock where Christ prayed (the Omar Mosque was built here). It is no coincidence that during the division of Palestine after World War II, the UN decided on the special status of Jerusalem, which is historically divided into the Old and New City.

Located south of Jerusalem Bethlehem, over which, according to legend, a star lit up when Jesus Christ was born. A grandiose temple was built here.

Tel Aviv- the capital of Israel (although the country's leadership considers Jerusalem to be the capital, which is not recognized by most countries in the world) with its Haaretz Museum of Mediterranean Art and art gallery. Among the streets of Tel Aviv there are Korolenko, Zola, etc. streets. It has practically merged with Tel Aviv Jaffa, unlike young Tel Aviv, has several centuries of existence. In this city you can walk along the streets of Pushkin, Pestalozzi, Michelangelo, Gorky, Ozheshko, Dante.

In the city area Haifa And Nathanya on the Mediterranean coast, as well as in the Eilat area in the Arabian Gulf of the Red Sea are seaside resorts. There are also resorts on the coast below ocean level Dead Sea, the very high salinity of the waters allows swimmers to float freely. An appropriate infrastructure has been created for tourists in Israel.

The Arab countries of Southwest Asia include virtually the entire area, with the exception of Palestine, Israel and the Middle Eastern states. Essentially we are talking about the Middle East or most of Western Asia (from Lebanon in the northwest to Yemen in the southeast). These are all Muslim Arab states.

With the exception of some outlying areas - Mediterranean Lebanon and partly Syria in the northwest and “happy Arabia” (southern part of Yemen) on the edge of the Arabian Peninsula - all countries in the region are arid desert and semi-desert territories. Therefore, civilization developed only where it was possible to create irrigation systems using rivers (as in Mesopotamia) or groundwater - in oases. From the middle of the 20th century. In many countries in the region, oil is extracted, which leads to the formation of oases on an “industrial basis” due to the supply of water from deep horizons or the desalination of sea water. During these processes, modern civilization is formed with all its pros and cons. In particular, the centers of this new civilization attract a large number of “shuttle” tourists from the CIS countries to the countries of the region. In some states of the region, modern seaside resorts are appearing on the shores of the seas. There are also mountain resorts in Lebanese cities. All this serves the development of recreational tourism.

In almost all countries of the macroregion there are many historical and cultural attractions - monuments of distant millennia and centuries. Yes, on the territory Lebanon located one of the most early settlements people - Baalbek, where ruins of religious buildings dedicated to Jupiter, statues, sculptures of Venus, Bacchus, rows of columns and sculptures, stairs are preserved. One of the ancient settlements in Lebanon is the city of Saida. The capital of the country itself - Beirut - along with the ancient quarters, is also distinguished by completely modern buildings, corresponding to the role of Beirut as a center of finance and culture.

IN Syria The ancient cities of Palmyra and Aleppo with their monuments of Hellenistic art are of great interest to tourists. The capital of the country, Damascus, attracts with objects of Muslim culture, including one of the most famous shrines of Islam - the Umayyad Mosque.

Muslim architecture is typical for most areas of the capital Iraq- Baghdad. The Nazimiya Mosque, or Golden Mosque, is very famous, decorated with four minarets with gilded domes (which is rare in this kind of structure). The city has many modern buildings and monuments, stylized in the spirit of Muslim traditions. To the side of the capital, located on the banks of the Tigris River, are the ruins of ancient cities, including Babylon. There are also summer high-altitude resorts in Iraq (in the north and north-east of the country). Despite the undoubted tourist attractiveness of Lebanon, Syria and Iraq, the flow of tourists to these countries is limited due to political instability.

Others are much less interesting for educational tourism Arab countries of the Middle East: Jordan, Yemen, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain. In these countries, whose economies are based on oil production (Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates), modern cities attract attention.

Saudi Arabia occupies a special place among the countries of the Middle East. It is on its territory that the main places of pilgrimage for Muslims are located - the holy cities of Mecca (with the black stone of the Kaaba) and Medina, cities associated with the activities of the Prophet Muhammad and the birth of Islam. Hundreds of thousands, and in some years millions of Muslims from all over the world come here as pilgrims. Pilgrimage (Hajj) brings huge income to the country, and pilgrims “attach” themselves to eternal life in Paradise. The city of Jeddah is located on the country's Red Sea coast, through which thousands of pilgrims travel. There are also several historical monuments here, among which, according to legend, is the grave of the first woman, Eve.

Saudi Arabia covers an area of 1.6 - 2.4 million square meters. km (according to various sources). The country's population is over 18 million people, the capital Riyadh.

United Arab Emirates (UAE)- a country with an area of 83.6 thousand square meters. km and a population of more than 2 million people is bright sun 360 days a year and a warm, clear sea, desert landscapes with oases and areas of red sand, wadis (dried river mouths) and dunes, the peaks of the Al Hajars massif, numerous key lakes of volcanic origin and a color palette of stones.

The coral reefs of Kor Fakan are famous for their flora and fauna underwater world, and the coast of the Persian Gulf is famous for its golden sands and exceptional water clarity. Hotels on the seashore offer tourists swimming pools and well-maintained hotel beaches, equipped with everything necessary.

The capital of the UAE is Abu Dhabi. In the city of Dubai - ancient Arab buildings of the Bastakiya district, Dubai historical Museum(Fort Al Fahidi), Jumeirah Mosque, Sheikh Said Palace, historical village museum, Dubai Zoo - the best in the Middle East, Wonderland - one of the largest water parks in Asia. Once a year, Dubai hosts the world's largest shopping festival, attracting more than 2 million visitors. Dubai's Arabian Tower Hotel (Burj Al Arab) is the tallest hotel in the world (height 321 m). Hatta - mountain resort territorially belonging to the emirate Dubai, located in the center of Khajar mountain range and is a picturesque place surrounded by palm trees, clear lakes and small farms.

In the city of Ajman there is a museum, which is located in a fort built in the late 18th century until the late 1970s. which was the residence of the emir. Its exhibition includes a collection of archaeological finds, ancient manuscripts, weapons, reconstructed traditional Arab rooms and a market.

Emirate Ras Al Khaimah represented by ancient cities (Yulfar - a thriving pearl trading center in the past, Digdaga - the largest Old city Ras al-Khaimah), Hatta hot springs, the Emirate Museum (a huge military fort) with traditional household items, jewelry, archaeological finds, the oldest of which dates back to the 1st millennium BC.

In the emirate Umm al-Quwain(“source of strength”) are located: Falaj Al Muala - a huge date garden surrounded by high dunes; the Dreamland water park with an 18 m high artificial volcano with imitation fire, lighting effects, and numerous water attractions; The city of Fujairah, with its sandy beaches and mountainous headlands, is one of the best places for scuba diving.

Mereja, which is the “museum treasure of the UAE”, is the oldest district of the emirate Sharjah, where the following are located: one of the largest mosques in the Middle East, the King Faisal Mosque, which can accommodate up to 3,000 worshipers; numerous museums and exhibitions, beaches of the Khalid Lagoon. New but already popular entertainment in the UAE is sand skiing and car rallying in the desert.

The countries of the Middle East are Iran and Afghanistan.

Iran- a country of diverse nature and ancient history. Nature lovers will find in Iran seas and rivers, plains (low-lying and elevated) and high mountains Elbrus with the main peak Damavand (in the north of the country), various forests, dry steppes, semi-deserts and deserts, healing mineral springs and healing mud. There are many monuments of Muslim culture (civil and religious buildings) in Iran - in the capital Tehran, the cities of Isfahan, Tabriz, Mashhad, Qazvin, etc. Currently, due to the difficult international situation of Iran (largely due to its isolation), the flow of tourists into the country very limited.

Afghanistan - a multinational mountainous country where military operations have been going on for many years. Therefore, and also due to the very low level of development of the tourist infrastructure, the harsh but impressive nature of Afghanistan, and its historical and cultural sites located in the capital Kabul, the cities of Herat, Kandahar, etc., remain unclaimed. One of the most famous tourism sites throughout Asia - Biamin. In this depression, located in the central part of the country at an altitude of more than 2 thousand meters, there are rocks dug by hundreds of caves, and in the rocks are two 50-meter high Buddha statues carved. The Shahar-i-Gulgula fortress is located on the hill. Opportunities are not in demand winter resort Jalalabad, hunting and observing local ritual holidays.

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For European people, Asia is a fabulous and mysterious side of the world. People come here for impressions, for new knowledge, for answers to unsolvable riddles. And also to warm sea or the ocean, for exotic entertainment and culinary delights.

Asia begins just beyond the Bosphorus. Türkiye is a well-known country for mass tourists. Unfortunately, few people perceive the countries of Central Asia as a vacation option. Of the distant countries, Thailand is best known, but Cambodia or Vietnam are rarely considered as the final destination of a flight to the sea.

One of the biggest attractions of traveling to Asia is the prices for food and accommodation. They are extremely attractive and can inspire tourists with the most modest budgets. Despite the long and expensive flight. In return, traveling to Asia gives the tourist the opportunity to save on housing and food so much that the high cost of the flight will not seem so hopeless.

How to make your visit to an Asian country informal, exclusive and inexpensive? Which countries give chances to tourists with a small wallet? What can you see, where can you visit? We have dedicated this article to the answers to these important questions.

Türkiye: an all-inclusive country

Tourists love Turkish resorts for their low cost of living, inexpensive food and fun entertainment. The abundance of ancient ruins, the secular nature of the state (all Muslim attractions are available to tourists), sandy beaches and the opportunity to relax on an all-inclusive basis are the main attractions for mass tourists. It is impossible not to add that hotel and restaurant staff speak Russian, which makes resort life easier for our travelers.

The Hagia Sophia Museum is a symbol of the “golden age” of Byzantium, located in the historical center of Istanbul.

Traveling independently to Turkish resorts involves many hassles. But as a result, the tourist pays more than the average tour offered by tour operators costs - 200 euros/week. This is how much it costs to travel alone, meals are only breakfast, accommodation in a 3* hotel, out of season.

An independent flight to Antalya and back will cost the same two hundred euros (the cheapest is with PEGASUS). Accommodation in a modest hotel - from 13 euros/day (91 euros/week) for a double room with breakfast.

Lunch in a modest restaurant will not cost more than 6-7 euros per person. If you feed yourself (many hotels have kitchens), then the daily cost of food will not be more than 5-6 euros. In this case, it is better to make purchases at bazaars, and buy only dairy products and semi-finished products in supermarkets.

Excursions to any place of interest to tourists can be purchased at tourist kiosks (in no case from street vendors!). A one-day tour to Ephesus or Didim with lunch included will cost about fifty euros per person.

Uzbekistan: Star of the East

The country, well known from Soviet times, today is perhaps the most developed and pleasant power for tourists in the Central Asian region. If the capital - Tashkent - is not very interesting for travelers, then Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand can satisfy the taste of the most sophisticated traveler, not to mention the novice tourist. Ancient mosques, mausoleums, palaces of emirs, vast bazaars, delicious cuisine and a warm climate - what else does a traveler need?

Registan Square in Samarkand.

If you eat in numerous national street restaurants or coffee shops, then lunch will cost you no more than 4-5 euros. Fees for visiting attractions and museums are so low that in a week you will hardly spend more than 5 euros, visiting two or three establishments daily.

The police in Uzbekistan are very strict, tourists here feel protected and protected. It’s worth adding that all the stories about the incredible hospitality of the Uzbeks are true! You will certainly make many friends.

The climate here is hot, especially in summer. Therefore, it is better to choose spring or autumn for a visit, when the temperature does not break records and you can not only get a good tan, but also enjoy admiring the mosques, medieval quarters, abundant bazaars and green gardens.

Flight from Moscow to Samarkand and back - 400 euros (UTair is the cheapest). Accommodation - from 21 euros/day (for two people in a guest house near historical center), breakfast - 3 euros.

India: the birthplace of Buddha

One of the most exotic and culturally rich countries in the world. It's interesting here how big cities, and in small villages. People often come here just to live and observe the lives of people who neglect earthly goods. On the other hand, many tourists are shocked by their visit to this country, the worldview of Indians and Europeans is so different.

Bengal tiger in one of national parks India.

The attractions of India are so numerous and varied that it is difficult to choose the ten or twenty most outstanding. Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries, ancient palaces and fortresses, the sacred Ganges and National parks with rhinoceroses and tigers - it’s hard to list everything.

India will be of interest to lovers of antiquity, admirers of natural beauty, seekers of the meaning of life and those who prefer a serene pastime on the beach. To save on transport, it is best to rent a scooter for the duration of your visit; it costs 50 euros/week. The vast majority of attractions are free. But to museums and cultural centers, entry tickets can cost up to 10 euros.

You can eat at street stalls (if your stomach is healthy and you can easily tolerate spices) - a huge portion of a vegetarian dish of rice and vegetables - less than 1 euro. If you prefer European cuisine, moderately spicy, then lunch in a restaurant will cost from 7 euros per person.

A visa to India for tourists costs 60 US dollars. You can apply for it on the Internet.

Flight from Moscow to Mumbai and back outside the season (April-September) - 415 euros (Turkish Airlines).

Accommodation in India is very cheap, but if you want to live in a room without bugs, but with air conditioning, you will have to pay from 10 euros per night (a double room in 2-3* city hotels).

Vietnam: a small country with big opportunities

Vietnam is not often considered by budget tourists as a holiday option. Completely in vain! Holidays in this picturesque and hospitable country are cheaper than in the vaunted Thailand.

Russians can spend two weeks in Vietnam every year without a visa. The country offers tourists not only perfectly clean beaches and a warm, clear sea, but also many unexpected cultural and historical monuments, unique cuisine, good-natured and smiling local people. And it’s also unusual in Vietnam low prices for food and overnight stay in a hotel or guest house.

Flight from Moscow to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh and back - from 424 euros (offer from Emirates).

Double room in a modest, but clean and modern hotel - from 8 euros/day.

Halong Bay, Hoi An, Mui Ne, Nha Trang - the names of the most attractive resort places in Vietnam say little to a budget tourist. Behind them hide unusually beautiful places, cozy restaurants, comfortable hotels, original festivals, green parks and Buddhist pagodas.

Long Son Pagoda (Nha Trang).

Eating in street cafes and snack bars, you can easily spend 6-8 euros per day. Lunch at an expensive restaurant - 12-15 euros. Fruits in the country of victorious socialism are so cheap that many tourists switch to a fruit diet and spend no more than three or four euros a day on food. Transport costs can be easily minimized by renting a bicycle - 30 euros/week.

Visiting attractions in organized groups, accompanied by a guide - from 35 euros for a one-day trip, including meals. Country tour (5 days) - 180-220 euros.

There is almost no street crime in Vietnam. The security level here is very high and the police are very efficient.

Entrance to a beach party or night club- from 2 euros.

Similar prices, entertainment and attractions in Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos. But air tickets to these countries will cost no less than 500 euros. In Sri Lanka, Nepal, and even in China, a budget tourist will also feel confident and carefree.

Each of these countries has a lot of exotic entertainment, inexpensive accommodation and delicious food. The main thing is to visit these countries not during high tourist season, and book tickets and hotels no later than six months in advance.

Asia is islands, temples, a colorful kaleidoscope of exotic fruits, kind painted elephants, fussy and intelligent monkeys, the sea, the sun, palm trees... In general, Asia is a whole philosophy, time flows smoothly, nothing passes without a trace, everything is reborn and flows into each other into a friend. Do you want to visit the most beautiful places Asia? Then here are 10 countries, after visiting which you will no longer be able to live as before.

1. Thailand

This country has won the laurels of the most popular resort destination for our compatriots. It has everything: a lazy beach holiday, interesting excursions, picturesque nature, rich night life with parties, cocktails and Thai specialties (well, you know what we mean). There are so many resorts here that you can go to a new one every year. Pattaya, the islands of Phuket and Samui are larger, and Phi Phi, Koh Mak are smaller, but in general, there is a whole scattering of islands, on each of which you can find everything you want.

2. Vietnam

Holidays in Vietnam are inexpensive in terms of costs for food, entertainment, etc. This is why European youth love it, because you can also surf here and just relax lazily. The main resorts: Nha Trang, which is popular with active tourists, Phan Thiet - quieter, for which couples with children love it, and Phu Coc - for those who love a luxurious holiday. For entertainment: excursions to national parks, boat trips to the islands, all sorts of unusual activities for us (like an ostrich ride), as well as more familiar ones - for example, the Vinpearl Amusement Park on the island of the same name.

3. Sri Lanka

You will hardly be able to find as many antiquities as there are in legendary Ceylon anywhere else. Here is the ancient Sigirya - majestic mountain, decorated with a giant lion statue, and Dambulla with the largest collection of Buddha statues, and Kandy - the ancient residence of rulers, and Anuradhapura with a centuries-old history and the sacred Bodhi tree. And this is not the entire list, but we have not yet said a word about the wonderful quiet beaches with red sunsets, against which the dark silhouettes of local fishermen sit on special poles right in the sea.

4. China

Relatively recently, we learned that in China, in addition to the Great Wall of China and Pikin, there are seaside resorts. Meanwhile, the island of Hainan (also called “East Hawaii”) is very popular, both among the Chinese themselves and among Russian tourists. Holidays here can be called relaxing. For those who get bored on the beach, we recommend going on a couple of excursions and looking at the life and traditions of the local residents - the Li and Miao tribes - or healing in the healing springs.

5. India

If you want to visit the sea, then Goa and Kerala are waiting for you. Goa is for partying in the north and complete relaxation in the south. We can say that this is not even India, but “little Portugal”, everything is quite modern, local color not much, but there is a special atmosphere that the hippies brought here: freedom, parties on the beach and all that. Kerala will appeal to those who want to get acquainted with Ayurveda; there are many Indian medicine centers and yoga schools. There is also the famous golden triangle “Delhi-Agra-Jaipur”, the city of Varanasi, Mumbai and many other cities where traveling alone is interesting, but not at all safe.

6. Indonesia

To understand how you can really relax on vacation, go to Bali or Java or Sumatra, in general, to one of the beautiful islands of Indonesia, where the background Indian Ocean calm and tranquility reigns. See the temples, play with the monkeys. And if you want parties, clubs and entertainment, then, for example, Balinese Kuta is more than enough for you: a whole street of entertainment venues and several schools for teaching surfing will fully compensate for your desire for activity.

7. Malaysia

If you are a follower beach holiday, then here you can get plenty of it: the islands of Penang, Langkawi and Sipadan are simply created to enjoy the sea and the sun. And if you want to take a walk around the metropolis, be sure to visit Kuala Lumpur, where you can visit the Bird Park, the famous Petronas Twin Towers and check out a couple of nightclubs.

8. Singapore

People usually visit Singapore while passing through, because for a transit visit to the country (you have a full 96 hours) you do not need a visa. During this time, you will be able to visit the minimum must see, which is enough to form an opinion about the country. Visit Clar Quay at night to drown in the lights, check out Botanical Garden and, of course, don't forget to take a photo or two at the iconic rooftop pool at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, with its stunning panorama.

9. South Korea

This country is becoming more and more popular among tourists. Getting here, you get the impression of jumping into the future: the modern architecture of Seoul, the availability of Wi-Fi almost everywhere and a lot of newfangled entertainment. But history buffs will also find a lot of interesting things for themselves: royal palaces Joseon Dynasty, temples and fortresses. And here you can improve your health and undergo diagnostics using modern equipment relatively inexpensively.

10. Philippines

A trip to Wonderland, of course, will cost a pretty penny, but it’s worth the money to immerse yourself in ancient Eastern traditions. Attend the healing ceremony, appreciate the heritage of the Spanish conquistadors, admire the urban beauty of Manila, buy a couple of real pearl necklaces and conquer the Mayon volcano - here short list cases that you can add your own.

Vacation - what a wonderful word! Every working person looks forward to it with great impatience, planning in advance how to spend it in order to not only have a good rest, but also gain strength until the next one. There are many options for spending your holiday. Whatever you choose, be sure to go travel. This is the only way you will truly have a good rest, gain strength and new impressions. In addition, meeting new interesting people can encourage you to make global changes in your life.

If you want to go abroad and you are faced with the question of choosing a vacation spot, choose a vacation in Asia. This is a large number of places with their own flavor and culture.

Asia - the land of smiles

Located on the continent of Eurasia. The most most of world in area and population, four times the area of Europe. It was here that all the most ancient civilizations and all world religions arose. Asia includes 53 states. Natural features And geographical conditions contributed to the fact that the indigenous people are hardworking and patient.

Geographical features are very diverse. In Asia there are mountains: Tien Shan, Himalayas, Caucasus. The endless steppes of Mongolia, the jungles of India and Vietnam, the taiga in Siberia, and there are also volcanic places. Asia, like no other country in the world, is exposed to monsoon winds. Therefore, the humidity level here constantly fluctuates: either a huge amount of precipitation or drought. Asia is washed by three oceans: the Arctic, Pacific and Indian. The border between it and Europe runs along the foot of the Ural Mountains.

But the most amazing thing is that people live here who love to smile and generously give their joy to visiting tourists.

Interesting facts about Asia

In Asia there are the remains of ancient civilizations.
Its area is larger than the area of the Moon.
Asia is divided into 5 parts: Central, Eastern, Northern, Southwestern, Southeast Asia.
The climate here is very diverse: from equatorial to arctic.
More than half of the world's population lives in Asia.
The earliest human remains have been found here.
In one of the Asian countries - India, the population is the same as in Central, Northern and South America, taken together.
The highest mountains are located here.
The largest country in Asia by population is China.

10 reasons to vacation in Asian countries

Getting to know unique monuments architecture.
The most are located right here.
Good opportunity to go scuba diving.
If you decide to spend your holidays in Asia, you will be able to get acquainted with the places where the most famous religions appeared: Buddhism, Christianity, Islam.
Try it unusual dishes Asian cuisine.
Purchase highly effective cosmetic and medicinal products at relatively inexpensive prices.
Many Asian countries do not require a visa for holidays.
Buy various souvenirs that you will not find in other countries of the world.
Get acquainted with exotic nature.
Visit the largest shopping centers and purchase goods at inexpensive prices.

Asian countries for holidays

Among the huge number of countries in this part of the world, there are some that are definitely worth visiting:

China. Ancient civilization full of mysteries and secrets. Great Chinese Wall, Imperial Palace, Temple of the Jade Buddha, Temple of Confucius and many other ancient attractions. China is one of the three most popular countries chosen by tourists planning tours to Asia. Many people come here not only to meet ancient history and traditions, but also in order to receive medical care. Modern medical advances and the knowledge of ancient healers, combined together, provide a powerful effect for the treatment of many diseases.
Japan. By traveling here, you can experience the rich Japanese culture. How were geishas trained and who were the samurai? The history of the country, its traditions, architectural monuments and an eventful holiday will make your stay in Japan unforgettable. If you don't like heat, then come here in the fall. Light coolness and a small amount of precipitation will allow you to comfortably walk around the Land of the Rising Sun and admire its sights. In addition, do not forget to try real Japanese cuisine: sushi, yakitori and, of course, the national drink of the Japanese - sake.
Vietnam. Here you can eat tasty and inexpensive food. You can purchase products from famous world brands at manufacturer prices, since their factories and factories are built in Vietnam.
India. Many of us become acquainted with this country in our early youth, when watching Indian melodramas. Judging by the films, all manifestations of emotions are transmitted here through dance. The prices are a pleasant surprise. Food, souvenirs, equipment rental are much cheaper here than in Russia. One of the most popular places in India for a holiday - this is Goa. This territory, judging by the preserved drawings on the rocks, was inhabited about 30 thousand years ago. A large number of ancient temples, diving centers for scuba diving, the sea in Asia, beautiful architectural monuments will make your vacation unforgettable. Don’t rush to conclusions if you see men holding hands in India; male friendship is just highly developed here and there is nothing reprehensible about it.

Popular resorts in Asia

Bali island in Indonesia. Best vacation in Asia for parents with children and newlyweds. Swimming with dolphins, windsurfing and a variety of slides in water parks are just a few of the attractions here.
India, Goa. Just to find out what the air of freedom is like, you should choose this place to relax.
Sri Lanka. Here you can not only have a good rest, but also buy Ceylon tea, which was popular in the Soviet Union. Travelers around the world are impressed by coral clusters and tea plantations.
Maldives. Are you depressed or frustrated with life? Get here immediately. Take a minimum of things with you, you don’t even need shoes here. Walks along the shore, aromatic treatments and much more will bring back your lost peace and enjoyment of life.
This resort is compared to the popular Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro, where life is an eternal carnival.

Dead Sea in Israel. One of the saltiest bodies of water in the world. If a fish accidentally falls into this sea, it immediately dies from the high concentration of salt.
Fujiyama in Japan. The height of this volcano is 3776 meters. It last erupted in 1707. To date, activity has been weak.
The great Wall of China. It passes through the whole of Northern China, its length is about 9,000 thousand meters.
Taj Mahal in India. It is protected by UNESCO and is one of the monuments admired all over the world. It is visited daily by tens of thousands of tourists choosing Asian countries for their holidays.
Raja Ampat Islands in Indonesia. The most beautiful islands for scuba diving. A large number of different fish and corals.
Temple complex in Cambodia. Its area is about 400 square kilometers. The complex includes about 2,000 temples and buildings, which from a height are very similar to the starry sky.
Borneo Island. Here are the most large caves in the world and there grows a tree that bears unusual name"walking". Its roots grow from the middle of the trunk and are able to move underground in search of water. Thanks to the unusual type of algae that grows near the shore, you can see the "red" tide.
Wat Pho Temple in Bangkok, Thailand. This is where Thai massage appeared. The library, which houses ancient manuscripts, will attract the interest of tourists.
Nha Trang, Vietnam. The longest cable car is located here. Its length is about 4,000 thousand meters.
in Malaysia. About 15,000 thousand people can fit here at the same time. When the sun comes through the windows of the mosque, the room is painted in blue light.

The most exotic countries in Asia

Malaysia. It's always summer here. You will be able to see the rarest plants and animals that cannot be found in any country in the world. Ancient temples, places of worship, exotic nature, a huge number of unusual sights. Just look at the names: Snake Temple, Bird Park, Orchid Garden, Butterfly Park and many others.
Indonesia. This country includes five large islands, including Bali, beloved by many tourists. One of the islands is shaped like starfish. Huge coral walls will amaze diving enthusiasts. Buddhist temples and volcanic lakes, mountain rivers and singing caves. On one of the islands, an ancient tribe has survived, which lives according to its own laws and hunts animals with homemade weapons. Here children are buried in a hollow tree, and caves are cut down for adults.
Philippines. When choosing tours to Asia, pay attention to this country. If there is heaven on earth, then it is undoubtedly here. The sand of the beaches is white as snow and the vast ocean expanse is turquoise. underground river And active volcanoes. Here you can have a wedding in the best traditions of the Filipino people.

What you need to do before traveling to Asian countries

Get acquainted with the traditions and features of the place you are traveling to.
When planning a vacation in Asia, do not forget to take with you a first aid kit consisting of the most necessary medications: painkillers, antipyretics, antihistamines, antidiarrheals and antivirals.
Get all the necessary vaccinations.
Take a certain amount of cash with you.
Take a credit card, preferably several, preferably each with the same amount of money.
In tropical countries of Asia, the sun sets very early, so it is advisable to take a flashlight with you.
Purchase insurance for medical care while on vacation.
Take an English-Russian dictionary for a trip to many Asian countries local residents speak in English language, and many tourists too.

Vacation in Asia. Best places to stay in Asia