Asia Cruises And Tours Destination Guide

Asia Cruise or Tour Beyond Your Imagination for solo, family, or groups 

As an Asian Specialist, we want to introduce Asia to you. Asia has so many beautiful destinations to offer and each experience is different from the other so take the time to check out the many beautiful experiences Asia can offer.

Cruise to Asia and Immerse Yourself in the Mystique, Beauty and Timeless Cultures

The energy of Tokyo. Tiny villages in Indonesia where time has stood still. Futuristic, otherworldly skyscrapers in Dubai that pierce the skies. The excitement and mystery of Asia beckon the culturally curious and those hungry for adventure. Ride an elephant, browse a bazaar or meditate at an ancient temple. Unpack once, explore the other side of the world, and create memories for a lifetime on your Asia cruise.

ASIA CRUISES 

Available are following cruises to different destinations.

  • Cruises to Beijing, China

Stroll through the amazing Forbidden City and infamous Tiananmen Square. Visit the Temple of Heaven, where the emperor annually celebrated the harvest, and walk on the centuries-old Great Wall of China.

  

  • Cruises to Hanoi, Vietnam

Drink in the exquisite beauty of Ha Long Bay with its breathtaking monolithic limestone islands and famous morning mists before traveling along the Red River to Vietnam's capital city, Hanoi.

 

  • Cruises to Hong Kong, China

Ultra-modern high-rise buildings sit beside street markets and monasteries in Hong Kong. Visit a floating village in Aberdeen or stroll through the bustling Temple Street night market.

  

  • Cruises to Phuket, Thailand

Experience the many aspects of beautiful Phuket, from its lush landscape and gorgeous beaches to its 19th century Chinese and Western architecture and stunning temples.

 

  • Cruises to Shanghai, China

See the amazing contrasts of this burgeoning city, from the broad European-style Bund to the soaring ultra-modern buildings. Visit the magnificent art museum and the renowned 16th century Yu Yuan Gardens.

 

  • Cruises to Singapore, Singapore

A one time British trading post, Singapore's diverse past is reflected everywhere, from its old Chinese quarter and colorful Hindu temples to its modern skyscrapers.

 

POPULAR ASIA TOURS

Japan - Tokyo - Kyoto - Nara

Start your Taste of Japan itinerary in Tokyo, Japan’s sprawling, busy capital, which offers a mix of the ultramodern and the traditional. It has been the capital of Japan since 1868 when it moved from Kyoto. The city is made up of a number of districts, each one with its own character and attractions. In order to become familiar with Tokyo during your 2 nights here, a tour will include the Tokyo Tower with its observation deck offering excellent views of the city, the Imperial Palace Plaza outside the Emperor’s Palace to visit the beautiful gardens and the traditional Asakusa Kannon Temple and Nakamise Shopping Arcade. Later, drive through the old Ueno area which offers a glimpse of what old Tokyo would have looked like without the high rises and the neon of the shopping arcades.

Leave Tokyo and travel by bus to the Hakone National Park On arrival, drive halfway up Mount Fuji to the 5th Station for a spectacular view of the surrounding countryside. Later, enjoy a cruise on the beautiful Lake Ashi followed by a scenic ride on the Hakone Ropeway, one of the world's longest aerial lifts. You will be dropped off at the Odawara station where you board the bullet train to Kyoto for a 3-night stay.

Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over 1000 years before Tokyo became its capital. It is Japan’s most beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage and remains a highlight of many Japan tours. Arriving initially in Kyoto, one’s first impression is that of a modern metropolis which is in parts. However, it doesn’t take long to unearth the infinite number of cultural treasures which are spread out all over the city.

A morning tour will introduce you to some of Kyoto's most famous attractions. These include the Kinkakuji Temple which is famous for both its Golden Pavillion and its exquisite Japanese garden and the impressive Nijo Castle which is noted for its interiors. This is the Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa Shogun and its main keep dates all the way back to 1603.

In the afternoon, head to Nara, the first permanent capital of Japan. Visit the ancient Todaiji Temple and its massive Great Buddha which is the largest bronze Buddha in Japan. You will also visit the colourful Kasuga Taisha Shrine with its 3000 lanterns. This Shinto shrine is considered one of Japan's "Three Great Shrines". Finally finish with a visit to Nara Park known as "Deer Park" because of the friendly, free-roaming deer that inhabit it. Return later to Kyoto.

 

PUTRAJAYA – THE INTELLIGENT GARDEN CITY

Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia

This master-planned city was constructed to move the country's administrative functions from Kuala Lumpur. Putrajaya, named after Malaysia's first Prime Minister, the late Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, is a landmark complex that stretches over 11,320 acres of which more than 70% is devoted to greenery and bodies of water, including 13 different gardens. Planned to the minutest detail, this intelligent city is devoted to enhancing the goal of the nation in nurturing a caring and progressive society that is also technologically advanced. Architecturally, the city is a blend of both modern and Islamic design, with well-paved roads and residential areas that blend together harmoniously.

Some of the sights you’ll see are Perdana Putra, the Prime Minister's Office Complex, Putra Mosque with its rose-tinted granite, the unique twin-deck Putra Bridge and Putra Square.

Round off the tour with a visit to the 227-acre Putrajaya Botanical Garden. About 40% of Putrajaya's scenic beauty consists of lush greenery and botanical gardens enhanced by large bodies of water and wetlands. This is the largest botanical garden in Malaysia which provides a peaceful, quiet place for contemplation and reflection, and is divided into three sections: flowers, ornamental plants, and preservation and research.

 

SAIGON HIGHLIGHTS

Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam

Gain an overall understanding of Saigon through landmark architecture that reflects the changing face of the metropolis known as Ho Chi Minh City since 1976. In the lively Chinatown district of Cholon, you will find Giac Lam, the city’s oldest pagoda. A haven of tranquility where Taoism and Confucianism merge with Buddhism, the pagoda compound includes ornate tombs, a rare bodhi tree and an elegant statue of the Goddess of Mercy. For a more contemporary perspective, you will view Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace, a modernistic white building that was home to the president of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. The Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon presents a glimpse into colonial life, as the French constructed it in the mid-1800s. The ornate Central Post Office is another French-built colonial gem. If not for the large portrait of Ho Chi Minh inside, you might think you were in Paris.

 

Sabang, Indonesia

Head to the northernmost point of the archipelago of Indonesia to experience the splendor of Sabang. Spend the day snorkeling off the shore of this volcanic island where coral reefs await you under the clear blue waters. Stroll up to the I Love Sabang monument for some incredible views. Explore the tropical island habitat that is home to a species of toad that can’t be found anywhere else. Then enjoy some traditional Indonesian cuisine, like nasi goreng or roti cane.

Fun facts:

  • The official language in Sabang is Indonesian.
  • The local currency in Indonesia is called the rupiah.
  • Sate (or satay), skewers of seasoned grilled meat, is the country’s most popular dish.
  • Weh Island is a small active volcano.
  • Weh Island is the only known habitat for the threatened species of toad, Duttaphrynus valhallae.

 

China Tours and Beyond

China is the fastest-developing country in the world. China travel provides the opportunity to see where this destination is heading as well as being able to experience its 4000-year history. Beijing’s highlights include the Great Wall and the Imperial Palace, also known as the Forbidden City. Shanghai is, in many ways, China’s city of the future. Xian, China’s ancient capital, is home to the legendary 2000-year-old Terra Cotta Warriors. Guilin has stunning tropical scenery and landscapes. Suzhou has fascinating canals and ornamental gardens and Kunming is the centre of numerous ethnic minorities, illustrating some of China’s diversity. Then there is Tibet with its fabulous and immense Potala Palace, the dramatic and beautiful Yangtze River with its fjord-like scenery, and the historic Silk Route of China stretching right across the country. All this is just a small part of a large world to be discovered on your China trip.

 

South Korea Tour

South Korea combines the old and new as well, albeit while bringing a very different culture and approach. Enjoy the street markets, palaces and gardens in Seoul, the archaeological sites in the ancient capital of Gyeongju known as the “Museum without Walls”, the port city of Busan with its special temples and the tropical “Hawaii of Korea,” and the magical Jeju Island with its swaying palms and sandy beaches. Korean scenery varies from mountain ranges to forested national parks, and once you’ve had a taste, you’ll want to explore it all.

 

Hong Kong Tour

Hong Kong may only cover a small area but it is chock full of reasons to visit, at least for a few days. The hectic pace of everyday life in this dramatic setting charges the city with amazing energy. There is outstanding shopping, ranging from vibrant street markets such as the incomparable Stanley Market to stores selling luxury brand merchandise. The traditional side of Hong Kong can be found in its narrow alleyways and its many temples and pagodas. A must-do is a trip on the Star Ferry between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island.

 

A Tour of Macau

Not far away on a short ferry ride is Macau with its Portuguese influences reflected in its architecture, churches, fortresses and cuisine. A highlight is a thrilling walk around the outside of the Macau Tower while looking down on the city. 

Enjoy sushi and other exotic Japanese food

 

Travel to Taiwan

Taiwan is a country with many natural attributes with a steep mountain chain running from north to south, lush forests, lakes and an abundance of natural beauty. Its capital, Taipei, is a busy centre of activity with the jewel in the crown being the remarkable National Palace Museum with its treasure trove of ancient Chinese artifacts. Two other highlights are Kenting National Park, Taiwan’s oldest national park and the exotic-sounding Sun Moon Lake, the largest natural lake in the country.

 

Beyond the Usual Philippines Tour

The Philippines is a land of natural beauty with volcanic mountains, scenic rice paddies, tumbling waterfalls, serene lakes and some of the best beaches in Asia. Manila offers a lively urban scene and an insight into the country’s Spanish rule through a visit to the old area of Intramuros. The major beach resorts include Boracay, Palawan and Cebu. For a change of pace, check out the Banaue Rice Terraces with their breathtaking scenic landscapes carved into the mountains.

 

Bali, Beach, Temples, and More in Indonesia

Indonesia’s highlights include the magical island of Bali which combines excellent beaches with picture-perfect villages, traditional temples, rice paddies and an active volcano. Take a side trip to the enchanting inland resort of Ubud with its mountain and valley setting and wonderful artisan shops. Archaeology fans should head to Java, specifically Borobudur with its 1200-year-old Buddhist relics and Prambanan with its centuries-old Hindu temple complex. Then, there are the legendary Komodo Dragons on the island of Komodo, the world’s largest lizards and a must-see for brave wildlife lovers.

 

Food and Culture in Singapore

Singapore is a melting pot of three distinct cultures, Malay, Chinese and Indian which all come together in the country’s architecture, traditions, food and people. There are modern high-rises and colourful neighbourhoods such as Chinatown and Little India. Other highlights are outdoor dining on the Singapore River, a visit to the interesting Jurong Bird Park and to Sentosa Island with its museum, aquarium, beaches, shopping and restaurants.  

 

Malaysia Travel Packed with Adventure

There are many special attractions in Malaysia. There is the cosmopolitan capital, Kuala Lumpur, the island of Penang with its excellent beaches and charming, historical Georgetown, the hill retreats of the Genting and Cameron Highlands, the world’s largest rainforest, Taman Negara, the beautiful resort of Langkawi and the fascinating Portuguese and Chinese-influenced Malacca.

 

A Unique Trip to Borneo

Malaysian Borneo offers interesting cities such as Kuching and Kota Kinabalu and South East Asia’s highest mountain, Mount Kinabalu plus the opportunity to stay with native tribes descended from headhunters in the jungle. Scuba diving in the south of Borneo is some of the best anywhere. Brunei, a small country that shares the island, boasts some unique architecture in its capital, Bandar Seri Begawan. This includes the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque and the Royal Palace. Other attractions include rainforests, wildlife and beaches.

 

Travel with Excitement to Thailand

Thailand is often called the land of smiles because of its gentle, friendly people. It is home to the exciting city of Bangkok teeming with life with its wonderful ornate palaces and temples, street markets, Chao Phraya River on which to take a cruise and its rambling backwater canals. A side trip to the River Kwai is well worthwhile, or to the nearby beach resorts of Pattaya, Hua Hin and Cha-Am.  For more excellent beach resorts, you can’t go wrong with Phuket, Ko Samui, Krabi, Phi Phi Island or Koh Lanta in Southern Thailand. Northern Thailand offers spectacular scenery and impressive cities such as Chiang Mai, the "Rose of the North" and Chang Rai. In this region, you can visit hill tribes, and experience a working elephant camp.

Young buddhist monks reading outdoors sitting outside monastery

 

A Trip to Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos

The emerging destinations of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos each have their own character and attractions. Vietnam has fascinating, lively metropolises such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi plus the old historical capital of Hue, the nearby atmospheric port of Hoi An, the beach resorts of Nha Trang and Phan Tiet, the amazing and spectacular Halong Bay and the scenic hill stations of Dalat and Sapa. The Mekong Delta offers lush tropical scenery and an insight into local rural life. Cambodia is home to one of the world’s most amazing archaeological sites, Angkor Wat, with its extensive ancient temple complex. Laos‘s main attraction is the town of Luang Prabang with its colourful temples, exceptional night market and the daily parade of the monks. 

 

Myanmar

Once a closed country, Myanmar has now opened its doors to the world. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Shwedagon Pagoda, a city within a city containing many pavillions and shrines. Take in the'' seeing is believing” landscape of the hundreds of Buddhist temples in Bagan. Mandalay has a large collection of temples and pagodas and Inle Lake offers the opportunity to view colourful country life. Take a boat ride on the lake and observe the fascinating fishing villages. 

 

Why travel to India?

Where to begin? In Delhi, you can experience the hustle and bustle of Old Delhi, visit Gandhi’s memorial, admire the impressive Jama Masjid Mosque, Humayan’s Tomb, the burial place of several Moghul emperors and the Qutub Minar, the tallest tower in India. In Mumbai, marvel at the Gateway of India overlooking the harbour, take in the attractive Marine Drive, visit Gandhi’s home, now a museum and visit the most amazing outdoor laundry, the Dhobi Ghats. Jaipur is known as the “Pink City '' with its City Palace, the enigmatic Palace of Winds, the Jantar Mantar ancient observatory and the striking and majestic Amber Palace perched on top of a hill. No visit to India would be complete without seeing the Taj Mahal in Agra, the white marble mausoleum built by the order of the emperor Shah Jahan in the 1600s.

Arguably India’s most beautiful city, Udaipur is located on scenic Lake Pichola and offers marble palaces and beautiful gardens. Jodhpur has the immense and stunning Mehrangarh Fort located on the top of a hill. For beaches and history, head to Goa and for animal viewing, Ranthambore Tiger Sanctuary. For something unusual, check out the erotic temple carvings in Khajuraho. For ambience and an insight into the Hindu way of life, visit Varanasi and take an early morning boat ride on the River Ganges. Travel south to the attractive city of Cochin for Portuguese influences and the nearby fascinating backwaters of Kerala. 

 

Everest and Nepal Adventure

Nepal is synonymous with Mount Everest viewed from Kathmandu but that’s not all there is to see. The capital, Kathmandu will make you feel as if time has stopped still with its medieval atmosphere, palaces and Buddhist and Hindu temples. Nearby Bhaktapur is known for its woodcarvings, pottery and cloth weaving. Nepal is the place for treks, easy or hard, short or long. Many of these start in the scenic resort of Pokhara located on a beautiful lake. Animal lovers will enjoy a jungle safari in Royal Chitwan National Park.   

Sandwiched between India, China and Nepal, Bhutan is a unique and mysterious country full of colourful Buddhist monasteries, museums and local markets. It also has stunning scenery including snow-capped peaks and wooded valleys. It is a great place to experience resplendent festivals which take place constantly. 

 

Mongolia Travel Takes You Out There

Mongolia, the World’s largest landlocked country, was the home of the legendary Genghis Khan. It is also home to the Gobi Desert which is made up of mountains and forests as well as sand dunes. Try a stay here in a traditional yurt for a unique experience. Ulan Bator, which combines the traditional and the modern, is the place to see locals who still dress in their traditional clothes. Mongolia also has a number of national parks and nature reserves. 

 

Sri Lanka Tourism: On the Rise

Sri Lanka offers a combination of attractions such as excellent beaches, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. The capital Colombo offers museums, art galleries, an old fort and beaches. Kandy is the home of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth and an elephant orphanage. The Yala National Park is a special wildlife sanctuary. 

 

Maldives Resorts: Gateways to Paradise

The Maldives are a group of delightful coral islands where you can really escape. Check into your own overwater bungalow and immerse yourself in paradise. In addition to all the water sports, reef, and beach activities you could desire, many Maldives resorts offer such memorable activities as swimming alongside whale sharks, or even dining underwater. No matter what your Maldives vacation looks like, time will definitely slow down for you here! 

You’ll never unlock all the mysteries of Asia in just one visit. But there’s a good chance that the first glimpse of them will spark a strong desire to return, and possibly a lifelong love affair. Book your Asia tours today....you won't be disappointed.

 

THANK YOU!

FOR INQUIRIES: 

TEXT (209)485-0346

veia@hensleytravel.com

Cruise Tours are also available. Combining cruises with tours to get the most of your trip!

 

Starting from Taiwan and ending in Singapore, explore 5 countries with 13 PORTS OF CALL:

  • Taipei (Keelung) Taiwan
  • Hualien Taiwan
  • Kaohsiung Taiwan
  • Salomague Philippines
  • Manila Philippines
  • Coron Philippines
  • Boracay Philippines
  • Puerto Princesa Philippines
  • Kota Kinabalu Malaysia
  • Muara Brunei Darussalam
  • Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My) Vietnam
  • Nha Trang Vietnam
  • Singapore Singapore

Or with 10 PORTS OF CALL exploring 6 countries:

  • Manila Philippines
  • Boracay Philippines
  • Puerto Princesa Philippines
  • Kota Kinabalu Malaysia
  • Muara Brunei Darussalam
  • Nha Trang Vietnam
  • Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My) Vietnam
  • Singapore Singapore
  • Bintan Island Indonesia
  • Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) Malaysia

If you want a day less, here is the 9 PORTS OF CALL that gets you to 4 countries:

  • Bali (Benoa) Indonesia
  • Lembar (Lombok) Indonesia
  • Bali (Celukan Bawang) Indonesia
  • Semarang Indonesia
  • Melaka Malaysia
  • Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) Malaysia
  • Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My) Vietnam
  • Nha Trang Vietnam
  • Singapore Singapore

However, if you want to focus in Japan, there is a Cruise to Kyoto (Osaka), Japan.

Visit the breathtaking temples and shrines of Japan's old imperial capital, Kyoto, or stroll through Nara Park, famed for its deer and impressive Kasuga Grand Shrine with 9 PORTS OF CALL

  • Tokyo (Yokohama) Japan
  • Nagoya Japan
  • Kochi Japan
  • Kagoshima Japan
  • Busan South Korea
  • Nagasaki Japan
  • Kyoto (Kobe) Japan
  • Mount Fuji (Shimizu) Japan
  • Tokyo Japan

Or a shorter one to Dubai, UAE

Explore this amazing emirate where ultra-modern architecture soars over traditional Arab styles. See the impressive Jumeirah Mosque and stroll through the narrow alleys of old Dubai on this 6 PORTS OF CALL:

  • Dubai United Arab Emirates
  • Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates
  • Sir Bani Yas United Arab Emirates
  • Manama Bahrain
  • Dammam Saudi Arabia
  • Doha Qatar