Things to Do in Asia

Patong Beach may not offer travelers a true taste of Southeast Asia, but the kinetic energy of this popular destination has made it a favorite among westerners looking to party. Like the rest of Phuket, Patong is home to white sandy beaches, clear blue water and plenty of sun, making it an ideal spot to catch some rays. But bustling neon streets lined with crowded open-air discos and dozens of bars serving strong island drinks have made this a destination for the younger set looking to party long into the night.

Traditional market buildings perched on stilts over the water offer a refreshingly different place to shop at the Pattaya Floating Market. The thatched huts are filled with stalls selling Thai handicrafts, delicious street food, and souvenirs.

The Mud House Village and Old Market have joined the attractions here, along with a woodcarving museum, flower fair, and agricultural demonstrations.

Dance troupes dressed in traditional finery regularly perform at the floating market, along with shell dancers and sea boxers.

Traditional boats ferry visitors around the market’s canals, past boat vendors selling Thai food from around the country. It’s an especially picturesque sight at dusk.

Located just across the Bagmati River from Kathmandu sits Patan, one of Nepal’s largest cities, and with a rich tradition of local art and handicrafts, it’s a must-see for shoppers. Like Kathmandu, Patan has its own Durbar Square, a central plaza surrounded by an array of temples and palace buildings. While you’re wandering the square, don’t miss the excellent collection at the museum housed within one of the ancient palace buildings, as well as the stone temple dedicated to the god Krishna that dates back to 1647.

While the dozens of other temples scattered throughout Patan are well worth visiting, the main draw here is the shopping. Many notable local artists hail from Patan, and the city’s shops are known for their metal and carved wood handicrafts in particular. You can also buy traditional Tibetan paintings, called Thanka and books from a couple shops that carry an English language selection.

If you find yourself turned off by the chaos and crowds of Thamel in nearby Kathmandu, consider basing yourself in Patan instead. You’ll find a handful of budget to mid-range lodging options as well as dozens of cafes and restaurants to choose from.

Flagstaff Hill is the best known of the group of granite peaks which are Penang Hills. At 2,411ft (735m)  it provides brilliant panoramic views of the Georgetown, the Penang Bridge and the Straits of Malacca.

It is accessible via a keen 2-hour hike up walking trails where there are thoughtfully spaced refreshment stops and viewpoints along the way. Alternatively, the 100 year old funicular railway is the more thrilling and memorably steep experience.

Get ready to get wet and cool off at Pattaya Water Park. Multiple giant water slides zigzag and spill into the water, and the winding whirlpool is the perfect place for a more relaxing glide through the surf.

There are tube rides for younger kids, shade huts for relaxing and a choice of swimming pools. The water park is circled by a wild roller coaster and amusement park with its plunging Tower Shot ride and Sky Shuttle.

While you’re here, take the lift to the 54th floor of the resort for fabulous views and a buffet lunch at the revolving restaurant.

For a uniquely local shopping experience, plan to spend a few hours at Beijing’s Pearl Market (Hongqiao Market). The market is famous for its three floors of dealers selling pearl strands from around the world and is the largest pearl market in the country, where you'll find freshwater and salt water items in nearly every shape, size, color and price point imaginable. If you’re planning to purchase higher quality pearls, know what you’re looking for before you go, since quality varies widely.

Contrary to the name, the Pearl Market does offer more than just pearls. The three basement floors house a massive seafood market where many of Beijing’s major hotels and restaurants come to bid on fresh seafood. On the ground floor, you’ll find electronics and watches, and the second floor houses silks, brand name clothing, shoes, handbags and luggage. Haggling is expected throughout the market.