Southeast Asia Calling!

By Author: Deepa G
Total Articles: 29
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The new fad that’s caught up with Indian travellers is ‘International Leisure Travel’. While the reason for this boom may be the consequence of bargain deals and other lures, by travel and airline companies; changing lifestyles and more spending power are also reasons for the burgeoning number. The general trend is to at least visit countries closer home like Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. Today, even housewives are willing to travel with women groups who offer short holidays to Southeast Asia. Kids also seem to be lured by countries like Singapore due to the sheer wonderments and amazing range of activities it offers.

Singapore remains the top favourite among Indians in the list of ‘must see’ destinations in Southeast Asia – among kids, youth and empty nesters alike. So what makes Singapore so popular? The diverse range of not just tourist attractions but the diverse cultures and experiences lure tourists not only from India but across the world. Singapore Tour packages showcases the Island country’s breathtaking islands, incredible water sports, Colonial relics, shopping for all pockets and indulgences, ...
... Zoological Parks and culinary delights from every part of Asia.

Thailand is also another hot favourite amongst Indian sun worshippers and honeymooners. About 7,00,000 Indians flew to Thailand last year, and an increase of 15-20% this year is expected. Phuket remains an all time favourite destinations and is invariably found in most Thailand holiday packages. Although considered a little touristy, most Indians can’t seem to get enough of the wonderful beaches found here. Thailand’s largest island on the west-facing Andaman Sea coastline also offers some of the best spots for snorkelling. Pattaya, a short 2.5 hour drive from Bangkok is another favourite because of its nightlife. Most deals offer to pack in at least the following – excursion to Coral Island to see the corals, the several golden beaches and the Alcazar caberet show, that has some of the most extravagant costumes and spectacular stage sets. Most Thailand holidays end with Bangkok, with its numerous Buddhist Wats, temple tours, shopping bargains and other entertainment options.

Most tour packages to Malaysia, offer Kuala Lumpur, a thriving city with its modern architectural monuments like the famous Petrona towers as well the many beautiful mosques. Most people combine Kuala Lumpur with either Penang or Genting. The island of Penang, located off the north-western coast of Malaysia, offers pristine beaches, amazing world-cuisines and a melting pot of Chinese, Malay and Indian cultures. On the other hand, if a family with kids are travelling, they would most likely opt for Genting Highlands. After enduring the heat of Kuala Lumpur, Genting is a good relief which is located at 2000m above sea level. This entertainment city has cinemas, boutiques, restaurants, cafes, food courts, indoor and outdoor theme parks, and even a snow park! For the grown-ups there is a range of entertainment – from casinos and concerts to shows and exhibitions that take place throughout the year.

With such a diverse range of destinations on the offer, most travel companies do a combination of two or more countries and design packages which cater to different holiday requirements and budgets. For a range of Southeast Asia holidays, log on to www.polama.com for an unbiased comparison of holiday packages, so that you can find a tour package that meets your requirements and budgets. You can know more at www.polama.com

About Author :

During a chance holiday to Kumta, Deepa realised that nothing excited her more than a career in research of unexplored destinations. Her special interest is in leveraging the power of the internet to give greater value to holiday goers, such as the ability to easily compare tour packages. You can know more about tour packages at her site www.polama.com.