Did you also binge Physical: Asia on Netflix and think: Wow, Asia is packed with powerhouse countries? Same. But then I had a funny realization: I have been to 7 out of 8 of the Physical: Asia countries. And I didn’t miss the one you’re thinking of!
Asia is a magnificent continent I have spent so much of my time in, and I can safely say it has provided me with incredible travel memories. Mongolia was actually one of the first of my ‘big’ travels. I visited 17 years ago as a 25 year old baby (you do the math on that) and while everything changes with time; I still feel like this is a highly underrated country. /End nostalgia.
Here is what each of these 7 countries taught me and a kickstarter for you to put the Physical: Asia countries on your bucket list!
Physical: Asia countries
Indonesia: islands & culture
I visited Indonesia in both 2006 (when I was wide-eyed and offline) and again in 2024 with my now husband; navigating a faster, more digital world. What surprised me was how Indonesia managed to evolve while still feeling deeply rooted in tradition. The chaos of scooters, the calm of temples, the kindness of strangers were all still exactly as I remembered them. But the travel experience? Completely transformed.
What it taught me
Patience and going with the flow. Indonesia time moves differently, and fighting it only causes frustration. I learned to embrace the chaos; missed buses became opportunities for roadside conversations, delayed ferries meant sunset beers with fellow travelers. Indonesia rewards those who surrender to its rhythm rather than trying to control it!
Where to stay
You can still find incredible boutique guesthouses in Ubud for under $40/night with infinity pools overlooking the jungle. Island hopping to Nusa Lembongan or further will provide you with a ‘Bali 15 years ago’ feeling.
Must-do experience
Take a sunrise trek up Mount Batur. Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, you’ll be surrounded by other people. But watching the sun break over the volcanic landscape while monkeys steal bananas from hikers is utterly unforgettable. Book your hike here.
Philippines: 7000 (+) islands of wonder
We tacked on the Philippines after a larger Asia trip earlier this year; and purposely choosing to avoid highly popular places like Palawan or Siargao. Instead, we explored more of Cebu island than most people do, and stayed 3 full weeks on Bantayan island. We went in expecting turquoise water and island time, and we got that, but what stayed with me was the warmth of the people and the feeling that adventure was always just a boat ride away.
What it taught me
Community and joy in simplicity. Filipinos have this remarkable ability to find celebration in everyday moments. Whether it was sharing a meal with a family who invited us to their table or joining an impromptu karaoke session on the beach, I learned that happiness isn’t about what you have; it’s about who you share it with!
Where to stay
Both the Santa Fe area of Bantayan and San Juan on Siquijor are amazing. You can splurge or stay within budget and still have a 5-star experience. Browse accommodations in the Philippines here!
Must-do experience
Cambugahay Falls is the kind of place that turns you into a kid again; tiered turquoise pools hidden inside lush jungle, with rope swings dangling from palm trees just begging for a dramatic splash. Go early before the crowds arrive, rent a swing from one of the friendly locals, and launch yourself into the cool water like you’re starring in your own travel commercial.
Thailand: The All-rounder
Thailand is the country that hugs you the moment you arrive. From beaches in the south (I’m a big fan of Koh Lanta and Koh Phangan without the partying) to mountains and temples in the north (Chiang Mai stole my heart), Thailand is a traveler’s playground.
After many visits, I can still say there’s so much more to see!
What it taught me
Self-reliance and openness. Navigating Bangkok’s small and big streets, communicating through gestures and broken Thai, figuring out which street food to eat today; each small victory built my confidence as a traveler. Thailand is forgiving enough for mistakes but real enough to teach you valuable lessons.
Where to stay
Bangkok’s Khao San Road area is backpacker central: cheap, social, chaotic. Chiang Mai’s Old City offers charming guesthouses in centuries-old buildings. The islands range from budget beach huts to luxury resorts.
Must-do experience
Eat street food at a tiny stall. The best meals in Thailand are often found on plastic stools by the roadside — smoky woks, bold flavors, and dishes made with love. Grab a plate, watch the hustle around you, and enjoy food that tastes like the true heart of Thailand.
Mongolia: Vastness & Stillness
I visited Mongolia back in 2008, crossing the country as part of the Trans-Mongolian Railway, and it remains one of the most surreal experiences of my travels. Endless grasslands rolled out in every direction, broken only by wild horses and the occasional ger catching the sunlight. It felt like stepping into a world untouched by hurry, where silence is vast, time slows down, and nature is undeniably in charge.
What it taught me
Mongolia recalibrated my sense of what matters, and taught me the value of slowing down and letting landscapes reshape your perspective. It showed me that freedom isn’t found in having more, but in having vast open space and time to think. And it reminded me that sometimes the moments you remember most are the ones filled with silence.
Also, it taught me to always say yes if someone offers to keep your fire going during the night! My fire-less night in the ger is still my coldest one till date.
Where to stay
Ulaanbaatar has standard hotels and hostels. But the real experience is staying in ger camps or with nomadic families in the countryside. Basic but authentic.
Must-do experience
Attend Naadam Festival if your timing works (July). The “three manly games”, wrestling, horse racing, and archery, are spectacular, and the entire country comes alive with celebration. If you miss Naadam, any chance to watch Mongolian wrestling is worth it.
Japan: Precision & Traditions
Japan was the country that surprised me at every level. From neon-lit nights in the city to the quiet grace of temple mornings, everything felt intentional and beautifully balanced. It’s a place where ancient traditions and technology coexist peacefully, where a 7-Eleven convenience store can be a culinary experience, and where getting lost becomes an adventure rather than a problem.
What it taught me
Everything in Japan is done with care, from how food is presented to how a shopkeeper hands you your change with both hands and a bow. This mindfulness is pretty contagious. And, it’s okay to not understand everything. Japan can be confusing for foreigners; the language barrier is real, social customs are complex, and you will make mistakes. But the Japanese are remarkably patient and helpful.
Where to stay
Capsule hotels are a quintessentially Japanese experience (and surprisingly comfortable). Traditional ryokans offer tatami rooms and kaiseki dinners. Major cities have everything from budget hostels to luxury hotels.
Must-do experience
Take a day trip from Tokyo to Nikko. The Toshogu Shrine is ornate and beautiful, the natural scenery is stunning, and it’s far less crowded than Kyoto. Plus, you can take a train there with your JR Pass. Book your tour here.
Turkey: Where East meets West
I only explored Turkey’s coastline, but even that glimpse was enough to fall for its laid-back Mediterranean charm. Crystal-clear waters, ancient ruins along the shore, and beach towns where life moves to the rhythm of the waves; it’s a destination that feels both historic and relaxed.
What it taught me
History doesn’t need a museum; sometimes you can swim right beside it. It taught me to slow down, enjoy long meals, and appreciate a culture built on generosity and warm hospitality. And it reminded me that you don’t have to see an entire country for it to leave a lasting impression!
Where to stay
Istanbul is obviously the main attraction with Sultanahmet district putting you walking distance from major sites; but it can be touristy. Stay in a seafront guesthouse or boutique hotel along Turkey’s coast to enjoy homemade breakfasts and sunset views right outside your door. Places like Kas or Antalya make the perfect base by the beach.
Must-do experience
If you’re in the area: a hot air balloon over Cappadocia at sunrise. Yes, it’s expensive (around $150-200). But also, it’s absolutely worth it. Floating through the sky as the sun comes up with dozens of other balloons around you is magical.
Australia: Familiar Faraway land
Not sure why they were in the Physical: Asia competition, but we’ll tale it. Australia felt a little like a paradox; English-speaking and culturally similar enough to feel comfortable, but very different in landscape, wildlife, and way of life. It’s where you’ll feel at ease as a traveler but also most aware of how vast and varied the world is.
What it taught me
The natural beauty is stunning but also harsh. The sun is brutal, the distances are enormous, and everything is trying to kill you (only slight exaggeration). Slow down and give places time. Australia is massive, and I made the mistake of trying to see too much too quickly on my first visit! Also, it taught me that kangaroos are not nice.
Where to stay
Hostels in Australia are excellent; clean, social, and well-run. Major cities have every option imaginable. Browse Australia’s best hostels here.
Must-do experience
Take the ferry to Manly Beach. Glide past the Harbour Bridge and Opera House on a scenic boat ride, then step straight into beach life with salty air, surf shops, and coastal walks. It’s the perfect blend of iconic views and relaxed Aussie vibes.
7 of 8 Physical: Asia countries visited
Traveling through these seven Asian countries reminded me that every destination has its own kind of strength, some flex it through tradition, others through nature, and many through the warmth of the people who call it home. These places didn’t just give me beautiful memories; they stretched my comfort zone, taught me new ways to see the world, and left me a little different each time I returned home. And with South Korea still waiting on my list, this adventure is far from over ; because if Asia has taught me anything, it’s that the next trip always brings a new lesson.
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4 comments
I really like how you wrote this article so the reader can compare different events for each country, such as best things to do. There are several countries which I have not visited in your article so you gave me ideas for future trips. Did you write an article on the railroad trip that you mentioned in the Mongolia section?
I did not! It’s been so long ago I doubt it’s relevant 🙂
Thank you for these handy mini-guides — I really appreciated how clearly you laid out top travel tips for each Asian country listed here, especially your visit taught you about the country.
Really cool concept for a travel blog series. I like that these mini guides focus on the physical feeling and atmosphere of each country instead of trying to overload readers with endless tourist checklists. The short format actually works really well because it makes every destination feel approachable and sparks curiosity to explore more. It’s also refreshing to see Southeast Asia presented with personality — different moods, cultures, food, landscapes, and travel energy — instead of treating the whole region like one generic backpacker route. The maps and visuals make the guides easy to follow, and the writing keeps it fun without losing useful information. Definitely the kind of content that inspires spontaneous trip planning.