9 top holiday destinations in Asia and beyond for Chinese New Year 2018

Jeju Island

Located just off the southern shores of Korea and a visa-free destination for Chinese citizens, this little island packs a miscellaneous mix of volcanic landscape, theme parks and local seafood restaurants, making it an entertaining and adventurous holiday option.

Taipei

Over the past decade, Taipei has become a foodie haven in East Asia. Boasting food markets that open till late (Tonghua Night Market spearheading them all), Taipei has got the idea of fusion figured out. It's Japanese, Portuguese, Dutch, Spanish and Chinese all sizzling at the same time. But it's more than just food, this town is also loaded with history and culture – home to landmarks like the high-rising Taipei 101, the monumental Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and the National Palace Museum. 

Hong Kong

Give into steaming stacks of dim sum and cups of 'silk stocking' milk tea while getting a welcome dose of island air in Hong Kong. With mountains, beaches and a bustling nightlife, this port city is an all-rounder. Hike The Peak, take in the dynamic vistas and burn a stick of incense or two at Man Mo Temple for an auspicious new year.

Tokyo

It's not the most expensive place in Asia to travel, but it's certainly a place that'll see you splashing out on food, hotels and kabuki theatre in no time. While those are good all-year-round, Tokyo in winter is also great for ski enthusiasts, sumo watchers and anybody who fancies a glimpse of the first sakura blossoms.

Bangkok

Steer south for an injection of livelihood that won't burn the pockets. Winter is perhaps the best season to visit the capital of Thailand, when you won't have to sweat like mad while taking in the historical marvels Bangkok has to offer. Be sure not to miss Ko Ratanakosin, the very cradle of Bangkok studded with temples and royal palaces.

Kuala Lumpur

Singapore

Singapore is a one of a kind destination, often associated sci-fi/futuristic skylines and landmarks. The young country has surpassed centuries of colonial history to become one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Asia, balanced with a seafaring Peranakan culture that dishes up home-style beef brisket rendang and ngoh hiang, all to be accompanied by a pint of locally brewed Tiger.

Sri Lanka

Think dangling your feet off the train while soaking in the dramatic vistas of Ella Gap, or hitching up the heights to see the ruins of Anuradhapura. Sri Lanka is a tropical dreamland offering a great show of the wonderful things mother nature has to offer.

Sydney

If you're chasing some summer sun, Sydney's the spot for you. Catch some waves at Bondi Beach, get some Instaworthy shots of the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and take in some culture at one of the many theatres or museums – don't miss 'Rembrandt and the Dutch Golden Age' at the Art Gallery of New South Wales and stunning aboriginal rock art on the Eastern Beaches.