Destinations

Manila is a whirlwind, and nowhere is this more apparent that the swirling markets of the capital, from the bustling streets of Chinatown to the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene.

Indonesia’s islands have primeval forests, exotic surfing destinations tucked away in jungles, luxury liveaboards, and so much more; Remote Lands has compiled the best island getaways for 2019.

From the Cultural Revolution and Chinese millennials to the Kangxi Emperor and hutongs, this list of books to read on your trip through Beijing will keep you entertained, informed, and enlightened.

The Aqua Blu from Aqua Expeditions will feature seven-night, five-star cruises through Raja Ampat, Bali to Komodo, and the Ambon and Spice Islands.

Thomas Bird travels to Pyin Oo Lwin for horse-drawn carriages, colonial architecture, and a little England outside of Mandalay.

Seoul has no shortage of plush hotel options, but the Shilla Seoul is fast joining the likes of the Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton in Korea’s capital.

The Sarojin is an impressive resort, but eating under a waterfall, diving the Surin Islands, and other incredible experiences are what make this destination a must-go.

Compared to places like Cambodia and Thailand, Laos is an untraveled backwater in Southeast Asia; check out a few of Remote Lands’ signature journeys.

There’s a lot of history packed into the Yoshida Sanso ryokan in Kyoto, the pick for travelers wanting to abandon the modern world without losing the creature comforts.

At a small temple in Ratchaburi outside of Bangkok, the centuries-old shadow puppet shows of Thailand’s national epic, the Ramakien, continue for a new generation.

Get down in the muck in Lembeh for the best muck diving in the world; cruise the bottom of the Lembeh Strait and beyond for otherworldly creatures.

Jay Tindall travels to the fascinating and somewhat gruesome spectacle of a Torajaland funeral, one of the most interesting cultural events in Southeast Asia.