10 Things We Think You Should Know Before Your Vacation to Asia

This week we are joined by Jen Julia to talk about traveling to Asia with your family. Get ready to hear 10 awesome tips that will help you plan an amazing adventure to Asia!

First up we have 6 great tips about travel in general, but with a focus on Asia!

1. Jetlag

Be aware that flying very long distances from home can cause major jetlag. Make sure you plan out the best times to sleep on the plane that will help you adjust to the new time zone. Also, drink lots of water to make sure that you’re hydrated! Don’t plan to do anything too crazy on your first day. Give yourself some time to adjust.

2. Don’t OVER plan

Jen suggests that we should let plans form as they happen. Asia is a great place to try planning less and not over-booking. Give yourself the luxury of exploring! Get suggestions of things to do from locals. It is much easier to be spontaneous in Asia than other destinations, as you don’t need to reserve a lot ahead of time. 

3. Learn (some of) the language

Prior to your trip, learn key phrases in the languages of the places that you will be traveling. And don’t be scared to ask locals the polite way to say “thank you” or “hello” here. You can also learn about the culture in order to respect them.

4. Visit cities AND rural areas

Cities are super fun and exciting to visit. However, they can be a little overwhelming and very busy. For this reason, Jen suggests bouncing back and forth between cities and more rural areas. This gives you time to rejuvenate and not get burned out on big cities.

5. Take cooking classes

Cooking classes are an amazing way to help you and your family understand and appreciate the local foods of the places where you are staying. It is so fun to learn from locals who are passionate about their food! 

6. Volunteer

Coming from the United States, we have so much. When you travel to third-world countries, you will meet so many amazing people who are suffering and living in poverty. Jen explains that as a family, they love to find people who could use some help, and volunteer with them. Even if it’s small, find a way to give back to the people in these places you are visiting. 

Here are some city-specific suggestions:

7. Singapore and Taipei 

These are two cities that Jen would definitely recommend visiting. The culture and food in these two cities were so unique and exciting. 

8. Hakuba, Japan

Hakuba is the “Alps of Japan” and it has amazing skiing! The people of Hakuba are so welcoming, and the ski resorts are great. Ski season is from December through April or May.

9. Malaysian Borneo

The Malaysia section of the Borneo island is a “natural wonderland”. It is filled with jungles and wildlife.

10. Surfing in Siargao

Jen and her family love to surf, and they said that Siargao, Philippines was the best place that they’ve ever surfed. If your family likes to surf, this might be a place to add to your bucket list! It is also very affordable. And the food is healthy and delicious. 


If you want to talk to Jen or follow along with her family’s adventures, check them out on Instagram @moxiefamilyadventures or her website moxiefamilyadventures.com! :)

AsiaLisa AndrewsComment