Alternative Asia

The Central Asian countries, or the ‘Stans, tantalise travellers with off-the-beaten-track allure. Throughout Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, the ancient Silk Road trading route has left behind shimmering desert trading towns, bustling with lively markets and filled with ornate Islamic palaces. Futuristic cities spring up alongside bizarre Soviet structures, separated by snow-capped mountain ranges and endless rolling steppe dotted with ancient ruins and yurts.

Unforgettable wildlife encounters await visitors to South East Asia, from coming face to face with wild orangutans in the Bornean rainforest, to joining the native jungle tribes searching for rare birds of paradise in Papua New Guinea. Lace your hiking boots to reach the mountain-top monasteries of Nepal and Bhutan with us, or we can arrange a more leisurely cruising around Burma’s stunning Mergui Archipelago. For a true slice of alternative travel, speak to our North Korea Specialist, Carl Meadows, about discovering real life and national celebrations in the world's most secretive country.

Where Would You Like To Go?

Why Alternative Asia

Though the exotic far east has tempted and seduced travellers for centuries, Asia remains home to some of the world's most intriguing destinations, untouched by touism and waiting to be explored. In the deepest depths of the Borneo jungle or the Papua New Guinea highlands, or even high in the Bhutan himalayas, here you truly still have the chance to be a pioneering explorer. And we don't have to tell you how pioneering a trip to North Korea can be. Whatever tempts you to reach for your passport, we'll help you find the perfect alternative Asia experience for you.