12 Nights Asia

This small, roughly diamond-shaped island at the end of peninsular Malaysia may be coated in modernity, but underneath lies conservative Confucian values. Chinese, Malay, Indian and Eurasian influences make Singapore a highly tolerant city with a wealth of fascinatingly sundry cultures.

An island state just off the coast of northwest Malaysia, Penang is rich in diverse cultural influences thanks to its history as a trading center between India, China, Britain and the Middle East.

The island of Phuket (pronounced "Poo-ket") is often called the Pearl of Thailand at Kata Noi Beach, a smaller, more secluded spot where you can soak in the sun and sand and unwind.

Hambantota is the main town in Hambantota District, Southern Province, Sri Lanka. This underdeveloped area was hit hard by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and is undergoing a number of major development projects including the construction of a new sea port and international airport finished in 2013.

Colombo is the gateway to Sri Lanka for most travelers?but don't be tempted to simply pass through this diverse and interesting city. Take a train ride along the coast to Mount Lavinia, a popular beach, or explore the Talangama Wetland, which several TripAdvisor travelers say is the perfect place to take a break from the bustling streets of the city.

Kerala is the talk of the town when it comes to travel in India, and the city of Cochin gives you a glimpse into why people love the state so much. Walk the streets of Cochin Fort ? here, youll find the St. Francis Church, Indias oldest colonial-built place of worship, as well as bustling Princess Street, with its colorful architecture displaying Dutch, Portuguese and British influence. See the Chinese fishing nets at the bay, purportedly brought here in the 14th century by emissaries of emperor Kublai Khan. Cruise to Cochin and explore the ornate Paradesi Synagogue and learn more about Keralas historic Jewish community, or feast on a paratha flatbread at a local eatery.

Kerala is the talk of the town when it comes to travel in India, and the city of Cochin gives you a glimpse into why people love the state so much. Walk the streets of Cochin Fort ? here, youll find the St. Francis Church, Indias oldest colonial-built place of worship, as well as bustling Princess Street, with its colorful architecture displaying Dutch, Portuguese and British influence. See the Chinese fishing nets at the bay, purportedly brought here in the 14th century by emissaries of emperor Kublai Khan. Cruise to Cochin and explore the ornate Paradesi Synagogue and learn more about Keralas historic Jewish community, or feast on a paratha flatbread at a local eatery.

Known as Bombay in colonial times, Mumbai today is one of Indias most cosmopolitan cities. Marvel at the towering Gateway of India, the enormous arch thats one of Indias most recognizable symbols.

Known as Bombay in colonial times, Mumbai today is one of Indias most cosmopolitan cities. Marvel at the towering Gateway of India, the enormous arch thats one of Indias most recognizable symbols.