Asia - The Land of Contrasts

Well, when you think about it, Asia really is the continent of extremes.

It has both the highest mountain on Earth (Mount Everest) and the lowest point on Earth’s surface (Dead Sea).

You have the least densely populated country on Earth (Mongolia) and some of the most densely populated (Macau, Hong Kong, Singapore, etc.).

Some countries are extremely religious and conservative (Middle East) and others are tolerant of religion and more liberal (China, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, etc.)

Arid deserts in the Middle East and Central Asia filled with sand, sand, and more sand. The highest mountain ranges, blanketed with snow. Lush rainforests in Southern Asia, the deepest ocean trench (Mariana Trench) not far from Japan. All of these can be found in Asia.

A modern city with a heady cosmopolitan culture, Singapore might be Asia’s smallest tourist destination, but it packs a punch. Are you ready to get blown away?

Singapore will offer you the complete travel experience. Right from splendid visual treats, to swathes of greenery, to delicious cuisines, and a vibrant art and culture scene, you will find everything on this island country.

It is considered to be among the costliest cities to live in, but it welcomes tourists with open arms, and the savvy traveler will find ways to enjoy the entire island through affordable travel, accommodation and dining.

Singapore offers diverse activities to all its visitors. A walk through Chinatown will show you how Singaporeans lived decades ago. Here you will find quaint, ancient shops standing proudly next to younger, cooler joints. And while there, you must try the various street food options.

For those who appreciate nature, there is the Night Safari, the Jurong Bird Park and Gardens by the Bay. Each of these will showcase a different facet of nature, making it a must-do on your Singapore list.

If you seek thrill, fun and adventure, head straight for Universal Studios, Sentosa and the adventure cove water park for some amazing rides.

Turn your vacation into idyllic luxury by booking a spot on the Dream Cruise. Pamper and reward yourself with sinful comforts. You can also complement your trip to Singapore by combining it with a stay at Bintan Island and give in to the peace and tranquility of the secluded beaches.

Singapore is a haven for shoppers. The country has a sale almost throughout the year, which means you will get a great deal on your favourite brand whenever you visit. Do not forget to indulge in some cheap electronics while out shopping.

When in Singapore:

  • Stay for a few luxurious nights in the high endMarina Bay Sands hotel
  • Visit Jurong Bird Park and the Night Safari
  • Take a thrilling ride at Sentosa and Universal Studios
  • Visit Bintan Islands for some peace and quiet
  • Take a selfie with the Merlion

At Jigsaw Travels, we will help you plan and can the perfect Singapore vacation.

From bustling cities, to stunning beaches, to peaceful islands, to lush green national parks, Malaysia has everything a traveler could want. Add to that a dash of delicious cuisines and stunning architecture, and you have perhaps one of the most beautiful tourist destinations ever.Despite all its attractions, Malaysia continues to remain underrated. Let’s take a trip and understand what this country has to offer.

Malaysia’s unique travel experience begins at its capital city, Kuala Lumpur. It has a mix of dense jungles and the trappings of a modern city. While there, do not miss the Petronas Twin Towers.

Malaysia is surrounded by pristine waters that offer many opportunities for snorkeling and deep sea diving. Penang Island and the Perhentian Islands are a must visit if you love marine life. These islands also serve as a wonderful getaway from the busy city, packed with its tourists.

The tropical paradise of Langkawi is also a favourite among tourists. You can spend your entire vacation here and not miss a thing. It offers you the perfect blend of beaches, mangroves, duty-free shopping and comfortable infrastructure.

If the hills are calling, Cameroon Highlands is where your feet will take you. You can spend the day with the locals or just walk through the vast acres of tea plantations that dot the hills.Malaysia has several national parksand jungles too. For a real wildlife experience, visiting Borneo is a must, where, if you get lucky, you can spot wildlife like tigers and orangutans that live comfortably in their natural habitat.

Those who love hiking must not miss a chance to climb Mount Kota Kinabula, Malaysia’s tallest mountain.

When civilization calls, Georgetown is where you drop in for a visit. A World Heritage site, it is bustling with quaint shops rubbing shoulders with historic buildings, and an excellent nightlife.

Malaysia has to be explored slowly to really see all that makes this country special.

When in Malaysia:

  • Get a feel for the bustling city that is Kuala Lumpur
  • Do not miss the melting pot of cultures, styles and stories at Penang
  • Enjoy the delicious street food at Penang
  • Walk the tea plantations at Camaroon Highlands
  • Laze along the white beaches at Langkawi
  • Go hiking at Kota Kinabalu
  • Get lost in thick jungles at Borneo

Allow us to help you discover the beautiful land that is Malaysia through handpicked vacation packages.

What’s not to like about Thailand? It has lush jungles, splendid beaches, clear waters, delicious food and amazing people. Plus, it has some really cheap prices. This amazing pocket-friendly destination is on everyone’s travel list, often more than a few times too.

On the surface that seems to be it, but look a little deeper and you will spot many offbeat holiday ideas that are just waiting to be discovered. Travel with us and discover the country like no one has ever shown you before.

When in Thailand, you cannot miss Bangkok. This is one city that is buzzing all the time. There are temples and palaces to explore, amazing markets to discover, and of course, the famed Thai street food to gorge on.

Most people think of Thailand and their minds conjure up images of beautiful sandy beaches,blue-green waters and great sea food. They wouldn’t be wrong. That’s all there at Phuket, Phi phi, Krabi and Koh Samui, some of the most popular beach destinations in Thailand.

However, did you know that the country also has beautiful hill stations of Chiang Mai and Chaing Rai, which are teeming with old temples and a slow life? While the food and the markets are an attraction, just a chance to get away from the hustle-bustle of city life is what draws many tourists here. Like trekking? There are many jungle treks that leave from these hills.

Thailand is a place where you get some amazing bargains on clothes, accessories quirky knick-knacks. With its range of options for all kinds of travelers, Thailand is a hot favourite among honeymooners and families looking for a safe and fun holiday destination. The adventurer in you will enjoy snorkeling, deep sea diving and scuba diving along the coast.

When in Thailand:

  • Spend a few days in bustling Bangkok
  • Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Phuket, Phi Phi, Krabi and Koh Samui
  • Walk along the hills at Chiang mai and Chaing rai
  • Get amazing bargains while street shopping
  • Indulge in some adventure sports
  • Do get tickets for the Alcazar Show and the Siam Niramit Show

At Jigsaw Travels, you are just one call away from a fantastic vacation to Thailand.

A plethora of experiences come to life in Hong Kong. One of the most compactly-populated places in the world, Hong Kong offers more to the traveler in its three islands than any other tourist destination.

From ancient temples and monuments to modern neck-craning skyscrapers, from traditional street markets to snazzy malls, from beaches to hills, Hong Kong has it all. 260 islands cluster together to give you a fantastic holiday experience.

As you make your way through Hong Kong, you will get a feel for the deeply-entrenched culture of the place, a mix of the spiritual east and the more modern west.

If history and heritage beckon you, there are temples and monasteries that will lure you in with their mystique. Some of the places to see are the Lo Pan Temple, The Sha Tin Che Kung Temple, the Man Mo Temple, and the Miu Fat Buddhist Monastery.

Families traveling with kids, or even those who are young at heart, can have the time of their lives at Disneyland. There are 4 themed parks where you can unleash the child within you.

Don’t miss out on a chance to book yourself a spot on the Star Ferry. It is the best way to see the Hong Kong skyline. This cable car ride is for 25 minutes, and you will pass through the mountains and get to see Hong Kong like you’ve never imagined it.

Whether you like shopping or not, and who doesn’t, the street markets will lay before you a heady mix of a bustling atmosphere, and the sights, sounds and smells of Hong Kong. We recommend visiting theTemple Street Night Market, the Ladies Market and the Stanley Market. From clothes to accessories to antiques and handcrafts, and even food, you’ll get it all here.

You can combine your trip to Hong Kong with a few days in Macau. Famous for its casinos, it’s a chance to live the lavish life of a seasoned gambler, even if for a few days.

When in Hong Kong:

  • Do visit Disneyland, the fun destination for kids and adults
  • Browse through the night markets and grab a great deal on handicrafts
  • Visit Macau and stay at the Venetian Macau

Jigsaw Travels is geared to put together a handpicked vacation for you and your travel companions.

Vietnam is a stunning land of immense natural beauty and cultural dynamics. It enfolds within itselfbustling megacities and hilltribe villages. Vietnam is at once, exotic and familiar.

Vietnam will mesmerize you with the sheer rawness of the nation. And it is seen in the natural, rugged beauty as well as in the many manmade structures, some ravaged by the passage of communism, war and poverty.Yet, there is a disarming quality to Vietnam that draws people to its shores.

Vietnam still oozes old colonial charm, and it offers the modern traveler all the comforts and attractions of a new destination. Ho Chi Minh, also known as Saigon, still retains its French-style landmarks. The beautiful cathedrals, the 19-th century post-office and many food stalls will leave you enthralled for hours.

The Củ Chi tunnels, an immense network of tunnels underline almost all of the city of Saigon. These tunnels are steeped in history, with them playing an important role during the Vietnam War while countering American forces. Today these serve as a historical reminder, mainly of tourist value.

Da Nang, counted among the large cities of Vietnam, is a mix of colonial architecture, century-old pagodas and even white sand beaches with sparkling waters.

History buffs will enjoy spending time at the museums and many ancient architectural monuments, like temples, mausoleums and pagodas.

If it is the outdoor that appeals to you, then do hike to the top of Sam Mountain.Snorkeling, scuba diving and other adventurous water sports beckon you at Halong Bay.A UNESCO heritage site, this will mesmerize you with its emerald waters and limestone islands, topped with tropical forests. Book yourself on a cruise and stay overnight to truly get a feel for this magnificent spot on earth.

Surely you’ve seen pictures of the typical Vietnamese rice terraces. Now’s a chance to see them in person.

When in Vietnam:

  • Book a cruise to Halong Bay and spend a night in this breathtaking landscape.
  • Enjoy a mix of Vietnamese and French-style architecture at Ho Chi Minh
  • Spend days relaxing at the luxurious seaside resorts of Da Nang
  • Walk through the The Củ Chi tunnels and walk through history
  • Watch the traditional Vietnamese Water puppet show

Vietnam is a destination that is soon becoming popular with tourists. Allow us to take you on a splendid vacation.

Cambodia is a country that will amaze you with its rich history, its beautiful geographies, its wonderful people and, of course, the delicious cuisine. The people of Cambodia are still struggling to escape their past, and tourism is a way out. Do visit Cambodia and let the country surprise you.

History buffs (or Angelina Jolie fans) will want to visit Angkor Vat. The temple ruins are just massive and you will need at least a whole day to explore their beauty. Besides this, there are several other temples, Bayon Temple, Banteay Srei and Praeh Khan, and monasteries that need to be visited to truly understand Cambodian culture and the various influences on it.

Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, has a colonial past and it shows up in its old buildings. The city is also known for its local market, where you can get clothing, handicrafts and textiles.

Cambodia has excellent beaches which offer the adventurous traveler a chance for diving. If you want a quiet time, some of the islands are quite secluded.

Tonle Sap Lake,the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia, supports a population of 3 million that subside on fishing and agriculture around the lake. This is an excellent location to spot a variety of fish, snakes, turtles, otters and birds.

Kbal Spean is a spectacularly carved river bed that attracts tourists by the droves.Also called the ‘River of a thousand lingas’ it is a sight to behold. A trip to Cambodia must include a day’s trip here.

Cambodia is not just a heritage lover’s destination. The country has an amazing night life with night markets and food stalls by the galore.

When in Cambodia:

  • -Visit the spectacular temples of Ankor Vat
  • -Do not miss a chance to see the Bayon temple, Bantaey Srei and Praeh Khan temples
  • -View the varied birds and animals by the shores of Tonle Sap Lake
  • -Visit Kbal Spean, the River with thousand lingas
  • -Treat yourself to the traditional classical Apsara dance show

Come to Cambodia, and we will take you along for a journey of a lifetime.

Japan is an amazing country that every avid traveler must visit at least once. The country is a rich mélange of an ancient civilization that has grown into a modern, technology-led nation.

The people of Japan are among the friendliest in the world and they are more than happy to have you visit their wonderful nation.

The best (and most popular) time to visit is in spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, covering the country in dreamy splendor. The colours of fall, in the months of November, are a visual treat as well.

Whichever season you decide to visit, Japan offers a rich cultural experience to the traveler. The nation is a high-tech world, with a deep appreciation and respect for its past and culture. Tokyo will thrill you with its hustle and bustle, while Osaka will entice you with a culinary experience like no other, and Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital, is famous for majestic temples, peaceful shrines, imperial palaces and traditional wooden houses.

Those with a bent for nature will love spending hours in the Zen gardens that Japan is famous for. Then there are lush green national parks, beaches and acres of open lands dotted with varied flora for you to spend many blissful hours in.

No trip to Japan can be complete without scaling Mt Fuji.It is 3776metres of an exhilarating climb, and the view from the top makes it worthwhile. If you visit Japan in the winter, you can indulge in a bit of skiing and other winter games too.

To get an idea of how a nation can rise from a tragic past and build a life on it, you must visit the Hiroshima bomb memorial.

When in Japan:

  • If you travel in spring, do take a picture with the cherry blossoms
  • The vibrant colours of autumn are a treat for the eyes
  • Visit Tokyo for a feel of the fast-paced life of Japan
  • Scale Mt Fuji for a spectacular sunrise
  • Delve into Japan’s past at Nara
  • Take your taste buds on a culinary journey at Osaka
  • Immerse yourself in Japan’s culture at Kyoto
  • Visit the bomb memorial at Hiroshma
  • Learn Origami and try wearing a Kimono
  • Perhaps you will spot a Geisha too
  • Visit a park to witness a traditional Japanese wedding
  • Take a dip into an Onsen, a Japanese hot spring and traditional bating facilities