Asian countries are increasingly popular with Russian tourists: for example, Thailand was visited by our compatriots almost a million times in the first six months of 2024. And one of the key advantages of a vacation in Asia is the opportunity every trip to discover new facets of those countries that may seem to have been studied far and wide.
Thailand is especially loved by Russians due to its architecture, culture and national cuisine. But the vast majority of families, especially with children, prefer beach resorts and spend an impressive part of their holidays by the ocean.
“The compromise will be an easy (even for the youngest) sightseeing trip around the country, leaving your hotel for a day or two,” says Stefan Bruns, CEO of DTH Travel Thal.
THREE SECRETS OF AN UNUSUAL VACATION IN THAILAND
Fans of southern islands like Phuket, Koh Samui and Phi Phi should definitely discover the kingdom from a new perspective – and see how picturesque its northern provinces can be.
During the rainy season, they can be an excellent alternative to beaches. And do not trust stereotypes: at this time of the year, you will find slightly cooler and more comfortable weather for sightseeing, and not rain 24 hours a day. Taking into account the seasonal price reduction, this is a great reason to save on travel, without denying yourself the impressions!
Couples without children will appreciate the four-day “Pioneers of the Lanna Trail” tour. It will allow to get to know the heritage of the medieval kingdom, once located in the north of the country.
The trip covers three provinces – Chiang Mai, Nan and Phre: it starts from Lampang Railway station and includes a visit to an organic cotton farm and an introduction to indigo dyeing techniques, and ends with an introduction to the murals of Wat Phumin Temple.
Chiang Mai, Thailand. Photo: piqsels.com There are many other attractions here, both natural and architectural. And also – there is an opportunity to spend the whole day with majestic elephants. “Elephant Walk” includes a visit to the eco-friendly Elephant Poo Poo Educational Park. For more than 15 years, toilet paper has been made from elephant droppings: tour guests can learn more about such an unusual production after spending enough time with animals.
Thai fabrics are now experiencing a new round of popularity – young designers are willing to pay attention to them. And this is an occasion to visit the San Kamphaeng community in Chiang Mai, where you can see how natural fabrics are created, especially handmade silk. Or even make a paper umbrella yourself!
Tip: if you want to achieve the perfect balance, combine a visit to the north of the country with a helicopter sightseeing tour over Phuket. The obligatory touch is a subsequent dinner at a Michelin restaurant.
THREE WAYS TO DIVERSIFY YOUR VACATION IN THE MALDIVES
The Maldives evoke strong associations with romantic tours: snow-white beaches, sunset dates and a photo shoot in wedding dresses.
“The Maldives has always been a favorite vacation destination for those Russians who want to celebrate an important event or just rely on luxury,” says Howard Brochier, director of DTH Travel Maldives.
But you can also come to the islands for an anti-stress vacation, when deadlines and phone calls begin to cause “persistent allergies”.
If you are planning a trip with the whole family, Male will be an excellent option for a stop: the more lively capital of the Maldives will allow you to learn more about the distinctive culture of the islands. Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa offers an original opportunity to guests who are tired of the same type of entertainment, but want to spend time with their family.
Together with a marine biologist , you can “plant” corals – tie the polyp to a special frame with a nameplate. Then it is lowered to the bottom so that you and your loved ones can become participants in the program to restore the local coral reef.
Avani+Fares Maldives 5*
At the Avani+Fares Maldives Resort on Baa Atoll, you can see with your own eyes rare biss turtles, whose species is endangered. The Maldives can be called a real paradise for these animals: 5 of the 7 species known to mankind live here. The hotel’s coral reef is part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve system and has everything you need to swim with turtles and hundreds of manta rays.
The guests of the premium Furaveri Maldives Hotel also have the opportunity to explore coral reefs, see their inhabitants – and at the same time, try other water sports. An exciting jet ski ride, full–fledged PADI Suba Diver diving courses or a children’s bubble-blowing dive will be fun for everyone without exception!
Tip: Try going on a sunset cruise toMake the most of the beauty of the Indian Ocean, take some beautiful pictures and taste tropical cocktails.
THREE PLACES IN SRI LANKA FOR THOSE WHO APPRECIATE THE BEST
Sri Lanka plans to increase the tourist flow from Russia. In summer, there are fewer tourists and a more affordable price tag. Suranjit de Fonseca, Managing Director of DTH Travel Sri Lanka, emphasizes that the destination is popular with Russians due to the opportunity to combine the convenience of local resorts with secluded beaches and a wide range of excursions that do not require significant time costs. If desired, you can even choose luxury vacation options.
The top popular destinations are Bentota resort in the south-west of Sri Lanka, known for convenient access to nearby attractions.
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“The coastline here is longer than at other beach resorts in the southern part of the island,” explains Suranjit de Fonseca.
It is worth a look at Galle Fort: this is one of the five historical sites of the country included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Colonial architecture, boutique hotels and rich history – the surroundings of the fortress have something to surprise even the sophisticated tourist. The best place to stay is at the Amangalla Hotel: actually, the hotel is located inside the fortress and provides guests with an excellent view of the fort and the harbor.
Tea plantations and waterfalls near Hatton, Sri Lanka. Photo: Rajeev Rajagopalan, flickr.com , Creative Commons license
In the large city of Hutton Sri Lanka has enough luxury hotels to accommodate: it is worth going here, at least because of the local tea plantations.
Private tea tastings are organized here, including a guided tour of the plantations. A great alternative is day and night safaris in the company of an experienced ranger in Yala National Park, as well as walks in Tirappan through the park, where you can see 120 species of birds.
VIETNAM: THREE TIPS FOR THOSE WHO ARE BORED WITH BEACHES
According to Guillem Cavalier, CEO of DTH Travel Vietnam, 95% of the requests received by tour operators from potential customers are related to beach holidays in Vietnam. Moreover, most travelers from Russia prefer to immediately go from the airport to the chosen resort, and then back. But the central part of the country may also be interesting.
Craft workshops in Hue are a good choice for parents with children who are looking for unusual activities: here you can make a flashlight or a toy made of natural bamboo together.
“Dragon Bridge” in Hue, Vietnam. Photo: pexels.com
The immersion in tradition can be continued at the Phu Mong Private & Royal Dining restaurant at Ancient Hue Garden Houses & French Villas. Its interior is inspired by the era of the reign of King Bao Dai: every detail here carefully recreates the interior of the royal palace. And the extensive menu only contributes to a complete immersion in the atmosphere of the era of the Nguyen dynasty.
Lovers of restaurants with outdoor terraces will be impressed by the romantic dinner on a bamboo raft in the mangroves of the Thu Bon River.
THREE ENTERTAINMENTS IN JAPAN THAT WILL SUIT EVERYONE
More than 41 thousand Russian tourists visited Japan in the first half of 2024. It is far from the most popular direction among Russians – and it is completely undeserved.
“Traditions in Japan are organically combined with modern luxury, so the country will be an excellent choice for discerning travelers,” emphasizes Joerg Albrecht, Managing Director of DTH Travel Japan.
Perhaps one of the main advantages of Japan is its versatility: neither single tourists, nor couples in love, nor families with children will be bored here.
Deer in a park in Nara, Japan. Photo: Dariusz Jemielniak (Pundit), Wikimedia Commons, Creative Commons license
In the Land of the Rising Sun it is definitely worth visiting Nara Park to chat with deer and feed them with your hands.
Take a look at unusual local museums – for example, the ramen Museum in Yokohama or the Miho Museum in Shigaraki, where you can admire the ancient art of ceramics.
Families who prefer an active lifestyle usually do not miss the opportunity to visit Japanese ski resorts: one of the best is Niseko, which is called the “snow capital of Hokkaido”. And quite deservedly: there is always soft snow and the best conditions for skiing and snowboarding.
A trip to the northernmost island of Japan can be combined with a vacation at the hot springs: Hokkaido is famous for its outdoor onsen (thermal baths).
Ekaterina Tropova
