Far East Asia

Geographically, Far East Asia may be defined as a subregion of Asia. It covers about 15% of the Asian continent. The countries of Far East Asia are the first choice of majority of tourists coming to the largest continent of the world. One of the most developed regions of Asia, Far East Asian countries offer state-of-the-art tourism infrastructure. A region where human civilization flourished from ancient periods, the countries of the region are also called Asian Tigers for the remarkable economic progress that they made within a short span of time. The region also has a rich history and vibrant culture. Influences of all major religions-Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism and Christianity is clearly visible in the culture and lifestyle of people. South East Asia is a synonym mostly used for Far East Asia.

Location
The name Far East Asia or South East Asia was first coined in 20th century. Before that, they were called Further India. The countries are located to India's east and Australia's north. Altogether 11 countries are included, some on the mainland and some wholly in the archipelago. The countries are Brunei, Cambodia, East Timor, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Phillipines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. A part of the vast landmass of China could also be included.

Major cities
Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Dilli, Bangkok, Manila, Hanoi, Bandar Seri Begawan, Yangon, Vientaine, Phnom Penh.

Climate
The climate of South East Asia is known for uniformity, high humidity and heavy railfall. Temperatures in the region remain moderate, neither too hot in summer nor too cold in winter. The temperature hovers between 10 degrees and 35 degrees.

Major tourist attractions
A brief description of some of the major tourist attractions of Far East Asia are given below
Singapore : Singapore is a city state where everything looks very modern. A country with one of the world's most attractive skyline, Singapore is full of sky scrapers. But Singapore is also a country with a rich cultural heritage. A strong influence of Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions could easily be seen. The country is also famous for good food and shopping.

Malaysia : Malaysia is one of the most popular tourist destinations of Asia. A country that offers tremendous hospitality to tourists, wealthy Malaysia is full of exotic hotels and resorts. A look at the landscape of her cities gives clear evidence of the rapid economic progress that the country has made over a short period of time. The majority of the population is Muslim, but it is a pluralistic society with a fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous cultures and customs. Capital Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands Hill Station and Langkawi are some of the country's most visited places. Malaysia also has some of Asia's best beaches, mountains and national parks.

Hong Kong : Hong Kong's hand over from Britain to China was smooth, but smoother is the tourist inflow to this modern city over the years. Hong Kong has every thing that a modern city can offer- excellent transportation facilities, luxurious hotels, gorgeous shopping malls and great recreational facilities. Tourists coming to Hong Kong never miss the chance to reach atop Victoria Peak, the place from where an excellent view of the city landscape is available. Other places thronged by tourists are Kowloon and Hong Kong islands. Hong Kong at night becomes as bright as a volcano. Culture wise, a fusion of British and Chinese traditions could be seen.

Thailand : Thailand is one of the most culturally liberal countries of Asia. Influences of western culture could be seen in every aspect of life, but what is appreciable of the Thais is that indegenous culture is equally respected and followed. For the tourist, Thailand has a wide array of attractions- her breathtaking natural beauty, beautiful temples, great hospitality, delicious cuisine and ruins of captivating ancient kingdoms.

China : The vast landscape of China stores an abundance of attractions for tourists, some dating back to thousands of years. China, it is said , is a different world altogether. One of the world's oldest civilizations, the landscape of China is a story of great contrasts. The Great Wall of China is the country's most popular monument. Capital Beijing has attractions like the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven Park and Lama Temple. Macau's claim to fame is its traditional Chinese temples, museums, forts and islands. Shanghai can safely be called the the city of the future. The city has embraced modernity so fast that its technological progress is reason enough for tourists to visit this magnificent city.

The list of China's attractions are exhaustive, yet names of Longgong Caves, Nanjing, Qufu and Turpan are worth mentionable.