Asia: Emerging Adventurous Tourists Destination

Nowadays, many travelers are adding some of the more remote corners of the continent to their dream itineraries. Whether one wants to feast on deep-fried scorpions, go “off the grid” in a spot untouched by

tourists, spend your day watching green sea turtles or dance at a colorful festival, Asia attracts like never before.

Members of the United States Tour Operators Association have named Myanmar, the country formerly known as Burma, as the top rising destination that will gain popularity in 2014. Vietnam and Cambodia tied for second, while India took third place in the annual survey released in December.

Travel agents say that clients are eager to involve themselves in another world.

Myanmar may be most interesting of all right now, with the nation back on many itineraries after the release of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi from house arrest in 2010. The move prompted her supporters to end a 15-year tourism boycott of the region, which in turn has inspired a travel boom.

More than 1 million tourists visited Myanmar in 2012, according to the country’s Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, a 30 percent increase over 2011. There are not enough guesthouses or hotels to accommodate the flow of visitors so prices have skyrocketed, and it’s particularly hard to find a place to stay during the peak season travel months of November to March.

Nick Ray, author of several Southeast Asia guides for Lonely Planet, said, “Myanmar is definitely one of the global travel hot spots at this time.” Ray also said they felt very safe in Myanmar. However, Tourists traveling to India may need to take more precautions.

Sarina Singh, author of Lonely Planet’s guide to India, said, India attracts tourists with its superb architecture, formidable landscapes, amazing cuisine and vibrant festivals. “Many people go to India in pursuit of spiritual answers and return home reminded of the inimitable serenity found in life’s simple pleasures. However, after several attacks on women last year, many people may be wondering whether it is safe to go.

The U.S. Department of State cautions Americans, particularly women, not to travel alone in India. It is sensible for female visitors to stay alert and avoid all public transport at night.

She advised visitors to dress conservatively, no sleeveless tops, shorts, miniskirts, or anything skimpy or tight. If you are at a beach, consider wearing a T-shirt and long shorts over a bathing suit. Getting stared at is common, but sunglasses are a good way to deflect eye contact.

For visitors in search of India’s less frenetic side, she recommends the southern states — places such as Kerala, a tropical, easygoing wedge of India’s far southwest.