This northern Indian city is the spiritual heart of the Sikh religion, with its beating core at the Golden Temple, a striking piece of gilt architecture filled with real gold.

Amritsar, India

People of any or no religious affiliation can visit the 400-year-old temple. Some of the best meals on the continent are found in Amritsar and are available near the Golden Temple.

The second-largest city in South Korea, Busan is a very welcoming city with magnificent seascapes and plenty to see and do.

Busan, South Korea

Haeundae Beach, a mile-long stretch of sand, is great for suntanning and wandering. Find the nearby Haeundae Market for beloved local snacks and eats.

The 5-mile-long Busan Gwangandaegyo Bridge is gorgeously lit at night. The annual Busan International Film Festival is one of the largest in Asia.

Cebu is a 125-mile-long island ringed by coral reefs and has fabulous sandy shores. The cascades of Kawasan Falls land in a picturesque pool of turquoise water.

Cebu, Philippines

A cultural hotspot, Cebu hosts the annual Sinulog festival, a religious commemoration characterized by huge parades, vibrantly colorful costumes, and a grand fireworks display.

In the south-central highlands, the weather feels like eternal spring, and Da Lat is a refreshing escape from the humid, dense experience of Vientam's big cities.

Da Lat, Vietnam

The town's quiet streets border French colonial architecture and the summer palace of a former emperor. Thrill-seekers will love the canyons along the waterways and waterfalls.

The island of Flores has large tracts of unspoiled forest. Mount Kelimutu National Park's volcano has a trio of bubbling, mystical lakes that seem to change color.

Flores, Indonesia

The unique, ancient settlement of Wae Rebo Village is on a plateau in the mountains. It requires a three-hour trek, but visitors will see conical homesteads surrounded by greenery.