Singapore
This tiny blip of a country sits on the tip of Malay Peninsula punches well above its weight when it comes to money, lifestyle and shopping. Singapore’s economy currently ranks as the fastest growing in the world and the city-state also boasts the best quality of life in Asia. Flights to Singapore are frequent from most major international cities, and Singapore’s Changi Airport is often hailed as one of the best on the planet, offering an airport garden, free tours of Singapore on transits over five hours, spa facilities and plentiful napping areas.

Hong Kong
Like Singapore, Hong Kong is another small country that belies its small size. Officially, Hong Kong is a ‘Special Administrative Region’ (SAR) of China and enjoys a considerable amount of autonomy from the mainland. For US travelers, flights to Canada, which then connect to Hong Kong are often a good way to save on cost; if you don’t mind flying indirect. Once there, prepare to shop til you drop, as the city is a shopper’s paradise. One of the best things about it is the contrast between its high-rise, glitzy shopping malls that sell the finest in high-class fashion, and the street markets where you’ll see tanks of live fish, crabs and turtles being bought for dinner. In addition to city life, Hong Kong also offers plenty of easy access outdoor areas, with numerous beaches, islands and nature reserves less than an hour from the main hustle and bustle of the city.

Beijing
China’s capital is a modern metropolis that also offers much blending with ancient and traditional attractions. More and more people are getting airline tickets to Beijing to experience life in one of the biggest urban areas around, and the city had a great publicity boost having hosted the successful 2008 Olympics. It’s also a great place for adventurous eaters - visit the night markets if you can stomach snacks like snake skin on a stick, scorpion on a stick, seahorse on the stick or deep fried starfish!

Shanghai
China’s second city, Shanghai is actually China’s most populous city and a popular tourist destination that is renowned for its historical landmarks, including The Bund, and City God Temple in the old city, making it a favorite of both foreign and domestic visitors. Shanghai prides itself on its cuisine, and offers the finest restaurants in China, including regional specialties from all over the country as well as international dishes.

Tokyo
One of the most frenetic cities on Earth, Tokyo’s population of 13 million means that you’re never alone in Japan’s capital. Many US travelers first take flights to Hawaii, spending a few days on the beach before heading over to Japan. This breaks up the trip and allows for a restful journey. The city is split into numerous districts; hit Akihabara, which means ‘Electric Town’, if you’re into the latest electronic gadgets. Shibuya is the place to go for the big name department stores and shopping malls and boutiques all together, and is also a great place to eat ramen, sushi and okonomiyaki – a type of savoury pancake. If you’re into freaky fashion, head to Harajuku to see the kids all dressed up in the latest ‘Lolita’ fashions.

Bangkok
Thailand keeps getting trendier all the time, not only with Thai culture overseas, but also with backpackers and the like that see the country and its capital as a center where the best aspects of many worlds collide. Why not first grab some flights to India, the gateway to the Far East, and explore this former-British colony. Then hop on a quick-flight to Bangkok and compare the two cultures - as Thailand was never taken over by colonialism (only nation in SE Asia to stay independent) - and thus the monarchy is still around today. A visit to the Grand Palace, former home to the king and royal court, gives you a chance to feel like a regular royal yourself while parading through its magnificent halls. When you’re ready for some futuristic indulgences, break the credit card out and tear up Siam Paragon, one of Asia’s largest malls.

Laura Dubois - A true travel author, Laura loves nothing more than taking exiting journeys across the globe waiting for the next inspiration...