East & Southeast Asia
Close enough for a long weekend, deep enough for a lifetime: Japan's seasons, Vietnam's streets, Singapore's ease and Thailand's islands.
When to go, from India
Japan
Late March to early April for cherry blossom, and late October to November for autumn colour — both book out early. May and early June are pleasant and quieter.
Most visited: Tokyo, Kyoto, Hakone, Osaka & Nara.
Vietnam
It depends on the region: the north is best October to April, the centre February to August, the south December to April. We plan the route around the season.
Most visited: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City.
Singapore
Year-round. February to April tends to be drier; the city is built for heat and rain.
Most visited: Marina Bay, Sentosa, Mandai.
Thailand
November to February is cool and dry across most of the country. The Gulf islands are a good choice from June to August.
Most visited: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket & Krabi, Koh Samui.
Starting points in East & Southeast Asia
- Japan, Tokyo to KyotoTokyo, a night of hot springs in Hakone, then Kyoto and Nara — timed to the cherry blossom or the autumn colour if you wish, with vegetarian dining planned throughout.
- A week through VietnamHanoi's old quarter, a night on Ha Long Bay and lantern-lit Hoi An.
- Singapore with childrenZoo, night safari, Sentosa and Gardens by the Bay — easy days for the whole family.
