Asia is an eclectic continent that teems with different cultures and tantalising epicurean experiences. If you’d like to soak in sublime sights in Yunnan’s Tiger Leaping Gorge, learn batik painting in Surabaya or explore Sapa’s ancient rice terraces, do it with DBS/POSB Cards which are especially useful for travelling - they entitle you to special offers and discounts for flights, accommodation, travel packages and experiences through a range of merchants such as Agoda, Klook, Trip.com and more.
1. Hanoi, Vietnam
Discover the beauty of Hanoi, a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.
Explore Hanoi’s vibrant street markets by motorbike, kayak through Ha Long Bay's mystical limestone pillars, and trek through emerald rice paddies.
Do you enjoy experiencing local culture in a foreign land? Then you’ll love immersing yourself in Hanoi’s ancient temples, delving into the legacy of French colonialism, and savouring the unique flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.
If you have more time to spare in the beautiful city of Hanoi, you can sign up for classes to learn traditional crafts like hat painting and pottery.
The emerald waters and limestone peaks at Halong Bay makes the destination a paradise for adventure and self discovery.
To complete your Hanoi experience, visit Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, just a 2.5 to 3-hour journey from Hanoi's city centre. Immerse yourself in breathtaking views. Enjoy exclusive perks with DBS PayLah! or DBS/POSB Cards – book your experience through Klook and get up to S$30 off activities bookings sitewide!
2. Okinawa, Japan
Okinawa’s laidback charm makes exploring its city and streets a relaxing and rejuvenating one.
Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Okinawa and you will discover vibrant coral reefs. On this idyllic island, you can surf world-class waves, and hike through lush sub-tropical forests.
Experience the distinct heritage of the Ryukyu Kingdom, visit sacred Shinto shrines hidden amongst nature, and discover the secrets of karate's birthplace.
Take a moment to relax with Okinawa's centenarians, who unwind on pristine beaches and indulge in traditional tea ceremonies, and you just might learn the secret to their longevity.
If you are someone who loves cashback, the DBS Visa Debit Card earns you 2% cashback on overseas spend, and you can convert as many as 11 foreign currencies, including Japanese Yen (JPY) with a DBS multi-currency account at 0 foreign exchange fees.
3. Yunnan, China
Find the hidden wonders of Yunnan with its towering peaks and serene valleys.
Avid explorers will love trekking through breathtaking Tiger Leaping Gorge, navigating the mystical landscapes of Yulong Snow Mountain, and cycling through beautifully preserved villages.
Lijiang Old Town is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and stunning natural beauty.
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Yunnan’s ethnic minorities, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lijiang Old Town, and witness the unique customs of the Dali people.
In gorgeous Yunnan, you can also learn the secrets of traditional Chinese medicine from local physicians, volunteer at its panda conservation centre, and embark on a spiritual trek to various Tibetan monasteries.
Booking your trip to China soon? Check out these amazing perks with DBS/POSB Cards. This includes 6% off flight bookings with China Airlines, discounts on car rentals, hotels, and more. What’s more, earn up to 2.2 miles per S$1 on retail spends with the DBS Altitude Card!
The best part is that the Miles are for Life! DBS Points earned do not expire so you can redeem for your next trip even faster.
4. Surabaya, Indonesia
In Surabaya, nature lovers can explore hidden waterfalls in the nearby mountains, tuck into fragrant Indonesian street food, and witness the majesty of Mount Bromo up close.
In this bustling city, you can discover the intricacies of Javanese culture, visit the historical gems of the Old Town, and soak in this city’s energetic nightlife.
It’s also easy to sign up for workshops that teach Batik fabric painting. You can even sign up to participate in a traditional gamelan music performance, or volunteer at a local charity.
If you are planning a trip to Surabaya, or any other destinations around the world, look out for the range of sweet perks you can enjoy using DBS/POSB Cards. Get discounts on travel merchants such as Agoda, Expedia and Traveloka for your hotel and flight bookings, such as up to 12% off flights, hotels or experiences with your DBS/POSB Cards
5. Sapa, Vietnam
The mountain view of Sapa in Vietnam features the rich nature of the city.
Sapa, located in the Lào Cai Province of Vietnam, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and cultural diversity. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike Fansipan Mountain, which is known as the "Roof of Indochina” and is the highest peak in Vietnam, and discover the rice terraces and panoramic views of Muong Hoa Valley.
For an authentic experience of Sapa, visit the Cat Cat Village, which is a traditional Hmong village known for its beautiful waterfall and traditional handicrafts, and the Ta Phin Village, where you can learn about the unique culture and traditional remedies of the Red Dao people.
You can even book a homestay with a local family, who can introduce you to local delicacies like Thang Co (a local stew made from horse meat, bones and organs), Com Lam (sticky rice in bamboo tubes) and Thịt Nướng (meat, fish and vegetables marinated with local spices and grilled over charcoal).
6. Desaru, Malaysia
Desaru’s vast beaches are a favourite among many Singaporeans, due to its proximity to Singapore.
Desaru in the state of Johor is renowned for its beautiful beaches and family-friendly attractions. Its sandy shores and clear waters are ideal for sunbathing, swimming and even beach sports like kayaking and jet skiing.
For those who love water activities, the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark is a must-visit. It is one of the largest waterparks in the region and features a variety of child-friendly water slides, wave pools and a lazy river.
Don’t forget to book a guided tour of the Desaru Fruit Farm, where you can learn about the region’s tropical fruits and taste them fresh, then ride an ATV around this scenic plantation. Desaru also has an ostrich farm that allows visitors to see these intriguing creatures up close.
It’s time to ditch the well-trodden path and embrace adventure at these exotic Asian destinations! These hidden gems offer the perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping thrills, cultural immersion, and opportunities for self-discovery. Get ready to create unforgettable memories and return home with a renewed sense of self.
Dive into these new experiences with DBS/POSB Cards to enjoy unbeatable travel promos, perks and offers. Simply check out the Deals icon on DBS PayLah! for more wonderful card deals. And if you’re not yet on DBS PayLah!, get S$5 when you sign up with the promo code JOINLAH
This story is brought to you by DBS.
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