The world’s largest continent is also home to many of the best travel bargains. With only a few exceptions such as Singapore and Japan, your vacation fund usually goes a long way in most of Asia. Even better news is that you don’t have to visit unsafe or ramshackle places in order to travel on shockingly low budgets.
Cambodia is a fantastic travel value and also home to Angkor Wat, which is arguably the single most impressive sight in all of Asia.
Getting a travel visa for China can be tricky and somewhat expensive for most people, but it's definitely worth it if you have done your research. Taking a tour is probably the best choice for most visitors.
This fascinating part of China is easier to visit than the mainland, although it's still important to do your research.
India can be overwhelming for almost any visitor, particularly in the larger cities. Do yourself a favor and don't focus on large cities and plan time in smaller towns instead.
Indonesia consists of thousands of islands, but most foreign tourists only go to Bali. There are other very nice choices if you want that experience with smaller crowds and less traffic.
Japan used to be famous for being super expensive, but now it's more in line with middle-tier European countries. That makes it a fantastic bargain.
Laos doesn't have as solid of a tourism infrastructure as next-door Thailand, but it also doesn't get the huge crowds and it's much cheaper as well.
Macau used to be run by Portugal and it's an interesting little place, but now it's so dominated by huge casinos that it's best visited as a day trip from nearby Hong Kong.
Malaysia feels underrated compared to Thailand and Singapore, which it sits between. It's a fairly modern country with good tourist infrastructure and a lot to see.
The Maldives has most of the world's overwater bungalows to go along with many more affordable beach-resort accommodations.
Myanmar is trying to build tourist infrastructure quickly after being off limits for decades. That could make it more, or less, appealing, depending on your style.
Nepal is the trekking capital of the world. Pay close attention to the seasons because there are many rainy months that aren't worth visiting.
The Philippines has quite a few wonderful resort islands and a few huge cities. Be prepared for some uneven experiences.
Singapore seems to get more expensive every day, but it's still worth a visit and it's a fascinating blend of cultures in a mega-modern city-state.
Most visitors to South Korea only stop in Seoul. It's a pretty amazing city, but it's worth exploring more if you have time.
Sri Lanka is all about mountain scenery and beaches. The capital is crowded and some visitors skip it altogether.
Taiwan has a complicated history to say the least. It's also got arguably the best collection of Chinese art and artifacts.
Thailand is Asia's easiest destination for first-time visitors to the region. It's got excellent tourist infrastructure to go along with amazing sights and some of Asia's finest beaches.
Vietnam is a fascinating country with amazing food and bargain prices. It's important to do your research in order to get the best experience because the country has more than its fair share of disreputable travel agents.