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Asia History and Culture

Ancient wonders of the east

Asia History & Culture Holidays

Introduction

Discover the unique cultures of Asia, from world-wonder temples in Thailand and Indochina to the monuments of the ancient Silk Road and great remnants of China's empirical past.

There's so much choice for history and culture holidays in Asia that you'll struggle to choose somewhere to focus on. The Khmer Empire covered Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam at its height. At the heart of the Empire stands Angkor Wat and the other temple complexes such as Angkor Thom, the Bayon and Kbal Spean. Capital cities such as Bangkok and Phnom Penh are full of temples and palaces, whilst cities such as Chiang Mai and Siem Reap are gateways to discover the past. Bagan's temples and ruins in Burma and the Plain of Jars in Laos are equally mysterious and worthy of exploration.

In China, the Qin Dynasty was short but had an enormous impact. Remnants of the empire include the Terracotta Army in Xi'an, which guards Emperor Qin's tomb. The Great Wall of China also stands as an historic monument to the achievements of ancient cultures, whilst the Forbidden City in Beijing showcases China's magnificent past, its opulent treasures and art.

The Silk Road stands as a living monument and the cities along its length trade on their past role as stop-off points for merchants and travellers; Samarkand in Uzbekistan and Almaty in Kazakhstan are full of spectacular sights and artefacts.

To meet the locals go in search of indigenous groups or hill tribes in Thailand and Vietnam in particular.

These are just some of the options available. You can also tailor-make your history and culture holiday in Asia by adding a city stay, Mekong River cruise, Yangtze River cruise or other excursion to your itinerary; talk to a destination specialist to see what we can do for you.

 

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Our top itineraries for Asia History and Culture

Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

The Allure of Asia on Seven Seas Explorer

20-day luxury ocean cruise from £11,105 pp incl. flights

Special
cruise offer

Free 3-night pre- or post- cruise land programme
Book by: 31 March 2024

This voyage is the ultimate introduction to Southeast Asia. Sailing aboard Seven Seas Explorer, you’ll swap sun-kissed islands and vibrant coral reefs for the urban delights of the region’s city greats.

Angkor Thom, Cambodia

Eastern & Oriental Express & The Riches of the Mekong

21-day luxury rail & cruise holiday from £8,765 pp incl. flights

This exclusive itinerary combines two extraordinary travel experiences in one unforgettable holiday – a luxury Mekong river cruise and a journey on one of the world's most elegant trains.

Hiroshima Castle, Japan

Essence of Japan with Tauck

14-day escorted tour from £13,100 pp incl. flights

Delve deep into storied Japanese culture with this escorted tour with Tauck, visiting everything from the hot springs resort town of Hakone to the cultural treasure trove of Kyoto.

Eastern & Oriental Express

Eastern & Oriental Express: Wild Malaysia

9-day luxury rail holiday from £4,990 pp incl. flights

Starting in Singapore, travel north in luxurious style, exploring the dense jungles of Malaysia's tiger territory, before embracing the rich heritage and cultural history of Penang.

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Top offers for Asia History and Culture

Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

The Allure of Asia on Seven Seas Explorer

20-day luxury ocean cruise from £11,105 pp incl. flights

Special
cruise offer

Free 3-night pre- or post- cruise land programme
Book by: 31 March 2024

This voyage is the ultimate introduction to Southeast Asia. Sailing aboard Seven Seas Explorer, you’ll swap sun-kissed islands and vibrant coral reefs for the urban delights of the region’s city greats.

Ginkakuji temple, Kyoto, Japan

Japan's traditions & temples on Seven Seas Explorer

16-day luxury ocean cruise from £10,555 pp incl. flights

Special
cruise offer

Free 3-night pre- or post- cruise land programme
Book by: 30 April 2024

Sail with Regent Seven Seas Cruises to explore the best of Japan's neon mega-cities, gorgeous gardens and multi-tiered temples, all awash in the vibrant colours of autumn.

Buddha statue next to waterway at Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Charms of the Mekong with AmaWaterways

14-day luxury river cruise holiday from £3,710 pp incl. flights

Special
cruise offer

Save up to £750 pp off selected 2024 departure dates
Book by: 31 March 2024

Enjoy a luxury cruise along the Mekong River between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap with AmaWaterways, discovering culture-rich cities and hidden gems with plenty of local flavour.

Osaka, Japan

Japan's Cherry Blossoms with Silversea

17-day luxury ocean cruise from £9,800 pp incl. flights

Exclusive
cruise offer

Exclusive savings of up to £600 pp
Book by: 30 April 2024

Now booking for 2025, experience the iconic beauty of Japan's cherry blossom season on this all-encompassing Silversea cruise, exploring the best of ancient and modern Japan in spring.

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Why book with Wexas Travel?

At Wexas, we specialise in bespoke travel experiences. Our itineraries are just samples of what we can arrange, and can be changed depending on your precise needs, finances and ideas by our experienced destination specialists.

Contact one of our consultants on 020 7590 0610 to discuss how we can tailor your holiday.

Learn why Wexas is the leader in creating luxury holidays. What is tailor-made travel?

Expert advice & support

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Let our travel specialists curate the perfect holiday:

  • Inspirational ideas based on experience
  • Established for over 50 years
  • Tailor a holiday to your precise requirements
  • Personalised quotes and documentation

Every step of the way

Every step of the way

Our services are with you from start to finish:

  • Dedicated personal consultants
  • Free airport lounges on qualifying bookings
  • Care and guidance pre, post and during holiday
  • Full financial security: ABTA & ATOL protected