This island nation at the end of the Malaysian peninsula offers rich culture, history, and cuisine. Explore Chinatown, the Arab Quarter, and Little India; take in harbor views at Boat Quay; shop along Orchard Road; enjoy a night safari at Singapore Zoo; relax in Bukit Timah Nature Preserve; wander futuristic Gardens by the Bay; and unwind with a Singapore Sling at the iconic Raffles Hotel.

Ko Samui, once an isolated "Coconut Island," became a tourist destination in the early 1990s and is now Thailand's second most popular island after Phuket. Expect white-sand beaches, coral reefs, rainforest waterfalls, and local plantations where monkeys help harvest coconuts. Visit Wat Phra Yai, the 49-foot golden Big Buddha, then enjoy simple, delicious food and a cold coconut cocktail in Thailand's bright-blue paradise.

From Laem Chabang, discover Bangkok's contrasts: exotic temples, lavish palaces, busy markets, and a striking skyline. Once a small trading center, Krung Thep now hums with street food, graceful Thai architecture, and saffron-robed monks. Ride a tuk-tuk to Wat Pho, home to a huge reclining gold-plated Buddha. Take a boat on the Chao Phraya River past floating grocery stores and teak houses on stilts. Shop for Thai silk and jewelry, then enjoy pad Thai, khao mun gai, and mango sticky rice.

From Laem Chabang, discover Bangkok's contrasts: exotic temples, lavish palaces, busy markets, and a striking skyline. Once a small trading center, Krung Thep now hums with street food, graceful Thai architecture, and saffron-robed monks. Ride a tuk-tuk to Wat Pho, home to a huge reclining gold-plated Buddha. Take a boat on the Chao Phraya River past floating grocery stores and teak houses on stilts. Shop for Thai silk and jewelry, then enjoy pad Thai, khao mun gai, and mango sticky rice.

Phu My is the gateway to Ho Chi Minh City, best explored on foot to escape the bustle and find tranquil parks, peaceful pagodas, and timeless alleyways. You can also cruise the Mekong, which splits into dozens of tributaries and becomes the Cuu Long (Nine Dragons), fanning across a rich delta of rice paddies and orchards. By river boat, head to Thoi Son Island to taste local fruit and honey tea.

A quieter town than its neighbor Nha Trang, Cam Ranh offers a landscape of white beaches, turquoise waters and lush forests. Those with an interest in history will have plenty to explore, as Cam Ranh has been a military stronghold for various world powers, including France, the Soviet Union and the United States. For a cultural experience, set off to tour peaceful temples and pagodas. Journey an hour north and you'll be in the heart of Vietnam's most popular seaside resort town.

Hanoi is a gateway to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Southeast Asia's most stunning sights. Thousands of limestone and dolomite islets rise from the water, with grottoes, caves, arches, and coves best seen by wooden junk or kayak. In Hanoi, explore the Old Quarter and visit the Vietnam Military History Museum, Temple of Literature, and Ho Chi Minh Museum.

Hong Kong blends an iconic harbor skyline with lush mountains and parks. Explore its culture and history at Man Mo Temple, ride the steep funicular to Victoria Peak, cruise a fishing village by sampan, and unwind on the sands of Repulse Bay. After shopping in Asia's commercial hub, enjoy dai pai dong street food and yum cha tea with dim sum.

From Keelung, head west to Taipei, one of East Asia's most intriguing cities, where Chinese, Japanese, and Western influences meet. See Taipei 101, Longshan Temple, and the National Palace Museum. Try xiaochi, beef noodle soup, and Taiwan beer. North of Keelung, visit Yehliu Geopark for eroded rock formations like Queen's Head and Elephant Rock.