In 1841, Hong Kong became a British Crown colony when it was acquired from China. In 1984, Britain and China signed an agreement which stated Hong Kong would return to China, but that it would maintain in its capitalist system for 50 years. This transfer took place during on June 30, 1997 under great pomp and ceremony. Its enormous harbor, vast industrialization and free port status make it a major Asian crossroad, and perhaps the best place to shop in the world.

Drink in the exquisite beauty of Ha Long Bay with its breathtaking monolithic limestone islands and famous morning mists before going ashore to visit Hanoi. Enjoy the broad boulevards, French colonial architecture and wonderful old quarter. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Vuon Bach Thao park where locals practice Tai Chi.

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly and still commonly known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam, situated in the south. In the southeastern region, the city surrounds the Saigon River and covers about 2,061 square kilometres.

Ho Chi Minh is Vietnam‘s largest and most famous city. During the 14th century this city was known as Prey Nokor and was nothing more than a trading post. By the 18th century, the Lords of Hue, under the Nguyens, had established control of the trade in Prey Nokor and renamed the city Saigon. After the Vietnam War, the new communist regime changed the official name of the city of Saigon to Ho Chi Minh and began to rebuild its economic and social structure.

Bangkok is the capital and largest city in Thailand. It began as a small trading center on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River serving the Ayutthaya Kingdom, the precursor of modern Thailand which existed from 1350 to 1767. Indulge your senses in the city’s fabulous golden temples and palaces, the royal barges and the Emerald Buddha. And explore the hidden city of teak mansions and lovely gardens or learn about Thai culture. Look for luxurious silk, wood carvings and fine jewelry among other crafts. Tempt your palate with chili-based dishes or sweet and sour recipes. Try some sate with peanut sauce, sticky rice and grilled fish and meats.

Koh Samui is Thailand‘s third largest island. Surrounded by eighty smaller islands, this stunning, natural beauty has been relatively undiscovered until recent years. Rumor claims that in 1971 the first tourists to set foot on Koh Samui were hippies who arrived by way of a coconut boat from Bangkok. While Koh Samui still exports up to 2 million coconuts to Bangkok every month, recent urban developments include a no-frills airport and an ostentatious Reggae bar.

Enjoy the sights in this bustling, ethnically diverse city as you see the golddomed mosque, unique high-rise architecture, and the Heritage Village. Or venture into the interior and astonishing Kinabalu Park. Stroll past rare plants along a nature trail and through a garden of rare orchids. Or ride Borneo‘s last train into the lush countryside of farms, water buffalo and villages. Spend time on the glorious beaches.

You will be charmed by Brunei’s many beautiful markets, incredible museums and unspoiled nature. Within the capital, Muara, you will find breathtaking landmarks. The Sultan’s lavish residence is not to be missed, as it has achieved legendary status as the largest palace in the world and features a unique blend of contemporary and traditional Islamic architecture. But there is nothing traditional — or expected — in this small country in Southeast Asia. Be prepared to be surprised at every turn.

Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan, Philippines, located 306 nautical miles southwest of Manila. It is said that the city was named after a mythical young woman, and Puerto Princesa certainly lives up to her legendary splendor with miles of pristine beaches and lush wilderness. Be sure to visit the underground river — the longest in the world deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beachgoers should head to Honda Bay, consisting of several islets that are the best location for snorkeling and island hopping.

Coron, officially the Municipality of Coron, is a 1st class municipality in the province of Palawan, Philippines. According to the 2020 census, it has a population of 65,855 people.

Boracay Island is a mere four miles long, yet it is home to some of the Philippines’ most beautiful and unspoiled beaches. The minute island is located just three hours from the capital city of Manila. Visit the less frequented Bulabog Beach and watch windsurfers seemingly fly across the crystal water or for a more secluded experience visit Puka Beach to the north.

The Philippine capital of Manila was founded by King Philip II of Spain. In the years that followed, the Spanish successfully prevented the Dutch, Portuguese and Chinese from settling in the Philippines. During the Seven Years‘ War the British occupied Manila, but agreed to return it to Spain in 1763. During WWII, the Japanese took control during a 1942 invasion, and eventually the U.S. recaptured the islands and returned them to the Philippines. In 1946, the country was granted full independence.

In 1841, Hong Kong became a British Crown colony when it was acquired from China. In 1984, Britain and China signed an agreement which stated Hong Kong would return to China, but that it would maintain in its capitalist system for 50 years. This transfer took place during on June 30, 1997 under great pomp and ceremony. Its enormous harbor, vast industrialization and free port status make it a major Asian crossroad, and perhaps the best place to shop in the world.