The 2008 Olympics: Beyond Beijing

edited by Nan Frient

All eyes are on Beijing for the 2008 Olympics, and those making the long flight from around the world have a wide range of excursions in Asia that should not be ignored. Here’s a list of ten Asian must-see places for adventurous travelers who will find themselves in Asia this summer.

#1: Hong Kong - Once you've watched the Olympians compete, hop a plane and explore the rest of Asia. A quick jump to Hong Kong is well worth the time. While you are there, make sure to take a walking tour of the city to get a historical view of the sites. Alternatively, if the city isn't your thing, there is actual wilderness to be had - you just need to look.

#2: Shanghai - Shanghai is not to be missed. You'll see a city that is growing before your eyes. Walk the city, see the sights, but don't miss the 500 kilometer per hour maglev train ride in from the airport.

#3: Phuket - Once you've had your fill of the urban sprawl that is Shanghai, go experience the island life in Phuket. A dip in the coast's warm waves, a hike in the interior hills, a scuba expedition into the sparkling waters off the Similans nearby... the options are limitless on this island in the Andaman. For the more adventurous, grab a guide and go elephant trekking or hop on a speed boat for a tour of Phang Nga.

#4: Bali - A bit more remote than Phuket, but every bit as nice, is Bali in Indonesia. Sitting snugly in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, this little island paradise has long been a foreigners' favorite, with tourists from afar drawn to its stunning natural beauty as much as its tranquil native culture. In addition to planting yourself on the beach with a cool drink, there are many opportunities to soak up the local culture, for example a private monkey and temple tour.

#5: Cambodia - No trip to Asia would be complete without checking out Angkor Wat near Siem Reap. Originally a sleepy village, Siem Reap now sees visitors from all over the world who come to view one of the most spectacular sites of the ancient world. While you are in Cambodia, take the time to visit the country's capital of Phnom Penh. Cambodia's capital has emerged as a showpiece for the nation's new direction. You can tour Phnom Penh directly or combine it with Angkor Wat and make a weekend of it.

#6: Vietnam - Though Vietnam’s capital spent years resisting the overtures of the West, proudly embracing its Vietnamese identity, it was perhaps just a matter of time before blue jeans and cell phones invaded Hanoi in full force. Now you can check out the relatively un-westernized city as well as its budding art scene.

#7: Malaysia – Start your visit in Malaysia in the cutting-edge metropolis of Kuala Lumpur. Then hop over to Borneo to visit Kota Kinabalu, a World Heritage site, for rain forest trekking and mountain climbing. The country also counts many great beaches and amazing diving and snorkeling spots on some nearby islands; or you can go into the interior to visit the orangutan rehabilitation center, go white water rafting or caving.

#8: Laos - Start with Vientiane for history and architecture, then catch a spectacular boat ride down the Mekong river from north to south, where you can swim with the freshwater Iruwaddy dolphins, go white water rafting or just jump out and float down the river in your life jacket. Many travelers rave about Laos as the next best “un-touristy” spot.
 

#9: Japan - While most tourists head for the obvious destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto or Hiroshima, the better-informed travelers know how to get off the beaten path. Head to Okinawa for great hiking and sea canoeing on Iriomote Island or go diving with the manta rays on Ishigaki Island. A bit closer to the capital is Miyakejima Island, quickly becoming the next trendy spot for Tokyoites to visit. Miyakejima is a volcanic island that was evacuated a few years ago, but is now open. Visitors must wear gas masks, available to rent, to go in the hot springs. Trust us, it adds to the experience.

#10: Singapore - While it often gets a bad rap as "too Western," anyone who says that about Singapore hasn't made the effort to leave the luxurious shopping district along Orchard Road. Curious visitors are quickly rewarded with historical areas like Little India, Little Arabia and British Town. The Night Safari is one of the most unique zoo experiences in the world, and for those looking for even more of Mother Nature there's Sentosa Island with amazing resorts, beaches and an amusement park.

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