Best of Asia Travel 2024: Food, Cities, and Must try Adventures

Why These Cities Made the Cut

We’ve always been drawn to dynamic cities with neon lights, tall skyscrapers, and buzzing energy. It’s no surprise our top destinations reflect this love of cosmopolitan charm paired with local culture.

#3. Hong Kong: The Cultural Mashup

📍 A perfect mix of East and West

Hong Kong captivates with its unique blend of local traditions and global sophistication. One moment, you’re savoring a bowl of macaroni soup at a cha chaan teng, and the next, you’re walking through high-end malls like Harbour City.

• Why Visit: Its ability to seamlessly blend multicultural experiences with authentic Cantonese charm.
• Must-Do: Take the Peak Tram up to Victoria Peak for breathtaking skyline views.
• Must-Try Food: Dumplings at Din Tai Fung or dim sum at Tim Ho Wan.

#2. Seoul: Korean Culture Turned Up to 11

📍 The city where food and energy collide

Seoul is a city that doesn’t sleep. It’s filled with buzzing street markets, K-pop vibes, and of course, unbeatable food. Whether you’re enjoying late-night Korean BBQ in Gangnam or cheering at a Korean baseball game, Seoul brings excitement to every moment.

• Must-Try Food:
  • Doenjang Jjigae at Jin Soy: Doenjang jigae is korean fermented soy bean stew. It’s pungent, like a strong cheese, and it’s loaded with meat, vegetables, and tofu. It’s a traditional dish, but Jin Soy does it the best. This restaurant has completely changed Ian’s viewpoint in Doenjang jjigae, and he’s constantly asking to go back. This restaurant is part of a chain, but the experience NOT unlike being in the comfort of your own home, enjoying home-made stew, made just for you. And the best part of all? The ramyun noodle that you cook at the end of the meal.
  • Pork Belly BBQ Matchandeul Wang Sogeum Gui in Haeundae, Busan: the tastiest, and the most unique of them all. Their meat is top of the line and the side dishes are unique to them. The restaurant is operated with military precision and the experience is out of this world. It’s worth visiting Haeundae just to go here.
• Best Neighborhoods:
  • You have your go-to spots like Myeong dong but I absolutely love Seongsu-dong and Ikseon-dong as my go to!
  • Seongsu-dong If you’re into shopping for the latest and coolest brands. This place is the IT place for the hottest and latetst filled with pop up shops and the best clothing brands. Be sure to check out Kith and Ader error.

#3. Horse Racing in Seoul

📍 107 Gyeongmagongwon-daero, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do

Ever wondered what it’s like to place bets like the characters in a Korean drama? At Seoul’s racecourses, you can join the action for as little as 10 cents per bet. It’s thrilling, cultural, and fun—just remember to bet responsibly!

#2. Grand Canyon Water Park in Chiang Mai

📍 202 ถนนเลียบคลองชลประทาน Nam Phrae, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai 50230, Thailand

This inflatable water park outside Chiang Mai is pure adrenaline. With zip-lining, water catapults, and giant slides, it’s the perfect way to cool off in Thailand’s heat.

#3. Korean BBQ at Matchandeul Wang Sogeum Gui in Busan, Korea

📍 29 Gunam-ro 24beon-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan

This Korean barbecue spot in Haeundae is unmatched. With top-tier pork belly, military precision service, and unforgettable sides, it’s a must-visit for any foodie.

#2. Doenjang Jjigae at Jin Soy in Seoul, Korea

📍 서울 금천구 벚꽃로36길 30 제씨118호

Ian wasn’t a fan of Doenjang Jjigae—until now. This traditional fermented soybean stew was so comforting, rich, and satisfying that it changed his mind forever. But best part of this meal is the ramen noodles at the end of your meal! Perfect dessert to finish off your meal 😉