Bangkok is a city steeped in contrast. Gold-spired temples share space with the neon glow of numerous red light districts; climate controlled mega-malls sit across the street from ramshackle street markets; and everywhere you look carts serving incredible dishes sit in the shadows of white-linen restaurants. But it’s this very juxtaposition that gives Bangkok such a lively pulse and element of sà-ù—fun.

Bangkok is a city steeped in contrast. Gold-spired temples share space with the neon glow of numerous red light districts; climate controlled mega-malls sit across the street from ramshackle street markets; and everywhere you look carts serving incredible dishes sit in the shadows of white-linen restaurants. But it’s this very juxtaposition that gives Bangkok such a lively pulse and element of sà-ù—fun.

Kuala Lumpur—or simply KL to the locals—is relatively young as cities go. But as they say, age is just a number, and what KL may lack in longstanding history, it more than makes up for in panache and progress. As you explore the bustling streets, you’ll notice an eclectic mixture of architecture—the Sultan Abdul Samad Building of Moorish design, the Tudor-style Cricket Club, the Railway station that’s a perfect balance of East meets West, and the early English gothic-style St. Mary’s Cathedral (just to name a few). Not to mention the most iconic building of all, the 88-story Petronas Towers; the pride of the city and the ultimate symbol of KL’s futuristic development.

The island of Penang has it all: Venerable history, a potpourri of multicultural influences, pristine beaches, and of course fantastic food. Penang cuisine is a flavorful mixture of traditional Malay cuisine, with a side of Chinese, a dash of Indian, and a sprinkling of fusion cuisine like Baba Nyonya and Peranakan. And the best way to experience this world of flavors is to hit the streets and follow your nose.

Thailand’s largest and most visited island, Phuket offers gorgeous beaches lined with palm trees, plus fabulous coves and bays. Water sports include sailing, diving and snorkeling. Golf enthusiasts will love the championship courses, while nature lovers will be thrilled by the tropical forests and waterfalls. Tour historic mansions and top off the day enjoying the extensive nightlife.

Chennai is a city both traditional and cosmopolitan, sprinkled with Hindu temples, the colonial remnants of the British Raj, and modern high-rises. Overlying it all is the rich Tamil culture, with an emphasis on the celebration of beauty in its many forms, the pinnacle of which is no doubt Mahabalipuram. On this stunning site between beach and lagoon are rock-cut temples and monoliths adorned with exquisite and intricate carvings depicting mythological themes; and bas reliefs like Arjuna’s Penance, where sculpted into two enormous rocks are beautifully rendered figures of animals, humans, and gods observing the descent of the holy river Ganges from the Himalayas.

Chennai is a city both traditional and cosmopolitan, sprinkled with Hindu temples, the colonial remnants of the British Raj, and modern high-rises. Overlying it all is the rich Tamil culture, with an emphasis on the celebration of beauty in its many forms, the pinnacle of which is no doubt Mahabalipuram. On this stunning site between beach and lagoon are rock-cut temples and monoliths adorned with exquisite and intricate carvings depicting mythological themes; and bas reliefs like Arjuna’s Penance, where sculpted into two enormous rocks are beautifully rendered figures of animals, humans, and gods observing the descent of the holy river Ganges from the Himalayas.

Sri Lanka was once known as Serendib, origin of the word serendipity, an apt description for the pleasant surprises certain to pop up as you explore this gem of an island with everything to offer: white beaches, lush tropical forests, fragrant gardens of cinnamon and clove, and a long and equally spicy history. From Colombo, the capital, you can meet the gang at the elephant orphanage, take a trip to Kandy to visit a temple purported to house a tooth of the Buddha, or check out village life on a bicycle. Don’t forget to take some of the excellent tea home with you, a product for which the island became world famous under yet another name – Ceylon.

Sri Lanka was once known as Serendib, origin of the word serendipity, an apt description for the pleasant surprises certain to pop up as you explore this gem of an island with everything to offer: white beaches, lush tropical forests, fragrant gardens of cinnamon and clove, and a long and equally spicy history. From Colombo, the capital, you can meet the gang at the elephant orphanage, take a trip to Kandy to visit a temple purported to house a tooth of the Buddha, or check out village life on a bicycle. Don’t forget to take some of the excellent tea home with you, a product for which the island became world famous under yet another name – Ceylon.

Cochin provides a variety of unexpected experiences: A tiny synagogue, and a Jewish presence some claim dates back to the time of Solomon. St Francis Church, where Vasco de Gama was once buried. Mattancherry Palace, with a series of remarkable murals painted on its wooden walls. Cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, gracefully silhouetted against sky and sea. An opportunity to sail the “backwaters,” a network of rivers, streams, and canals, for a peek at traditional rural lifestyles. And of course the spellbinding Kathakali dance, with its highly stylized performances and elaborate makeup and costumes.

Cochin provides a variety of unexpected experiences: A tiny synagogue, and a Jewish presence some claim dates back to the time of Solomon. St Francis Church, where Vasco de Gama was once buried. Mattancherry Palace, with a series of remarkable murals painted on its wooden walls. Cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, gracefully silhouetted against sky and sea. An opportunity to sail the “backwaters,” a network of rivers, streams, and canals, for a peek at traditional rural lifestyles. And of course the spellbinding Kathakali dance, with its highly stylized performances and elaborate makeup and costumes.

The home of Bollywood, the seat of the Hindi film industry, Bombay is the glamour capital of India. Bask in the glory of the Gateway of India, the signature mark of the city. Then, make a wish at the Tomb of Haji Ali and identify antique pieces at the Chor Bazaar to take home a bit of the spectacle.