This or That: Asia Travel Destinations

Songkran in Bangkok is a whirlwind of splashes, laughter, and full-blown street parties. For a few days, the city turns into a giant waterpark, and avoiding a drenching is about as likely as finding an empty BTS train at rush hour. With the festive chaos in full swing, a luxurious retreat is essential, somewhere to recharge, dry off, and sip on a cocktail far from the water guns. Here are six hotels that guarantee indulgence, comfort, and prime locations for the ultimate Songkran experience you won't forget.

Chatrium Grand Bangkok

If you’re looking for a hotel that puts you right in the heart of the city without sacrificing peace and quiet, Chatrium Grand Bangkok is a winner. Located near Siam Paragon, it gives you front-row access to the Songkran festivities without requiring a lifejacket. Spend your mornings dodging water pistols and your evenings lounging in the infinity pool, enjoying world-class dining, and embracing the kind of comfort that makes you forget you were soaked just hours ago.

Location: Chatrium Grand Bangkok, 728 Phetchaburi Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok

Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park

If the idea of Songkran sounds fun, but you also appreciate the option of a dry, elevated viewpoint, Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park has you covered — literally. Just above the lively Silom district, this hotel lets you dive into the festival at your own pace. When you’ve had your fill of water fights, escape to the rooftop pool, order a drink, and enjoy the city skyline while others continue their battle below.

Location: Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park, 952 Rama IV Road, Bang Rak, Bangkok

Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok

Siam Kempinski feels like a well-kept secret — an oasis of tranquility tucked behind the buzzing streets of Bangkok. While Songkran rages on outside, you can slip into one of the resort’s lagoon pools, sip a cocktail under the palm trees, and pretend you're on a tropical island. But when you’re ready to rejoin the fun, direct access to Siam Paragon means you’re never far from the action (or a fresh, dry outfit).

Location: Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, 991/9 Rama I Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok

The Sukhothai Bangkok

Bangkok might be going full water-war mode, but inside The Sukhothai, it’s all about calm, elegance, and lotus ponds. This hotel is perfect for those who want to experience Songkran on their own terms — splash around in the daytime, then retreat to the hotel’s spa for a well-deserved massage. Bonus points for the Michelin-starred restaurant, where the only thing being thrown around is world-class flavors.

Location: The Sukhothai Bangkok, 13/3 South Sathorn Road, Bangkok

Mövenpick Hotel Sukhumvit 15

Tucked away in Sukhumvit, Mövenpick Hotel offers a stylish sanctuary where you can enjoy Songkran and keep your hair dry when needed. Start your day getting drenched in the lively streets, but when it’s time to take a break, head to the rooftop Rainforest Bar for a sundowner and panoramic city views. It’s a great mix of fun, relaxation, and Swiss hospitality (which, fortunately, includes some seriously good chocolate).

Location: Mövenpick Hotel Sukhumvit 15 Bangkok, 47 Sukhumvit 15, Klong Toey Nua, Bangkok

Centara Grand at CentralWorld

For those who believe the best way to experience Songkran is at full volume, Centara Grand at CentralWorld is the place to be. Sitting atop one of Bangkok’s largest shopping malls, this hotel places you at the very heart of the city’s biggest water fights. Need a break? Dry off at the Red Sky rooftop bar with a cocktail in hand while watching the crowds below. And if you run out of dry clothes, CentralWorld's got you covered.

Location: Centara Grand at CentralWorld, 999/99 Rama I Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok

Spring is the season of new beginnings and with it comes the transformation of mountainsides and city parks into breathtaking seas of pink and white. While Japan is known for its Sakura season, there are other destinations in Asia boasting stunning cherry blossom views — often with fewer crowds and coupled with unique cultural experiences. 

From breathtaking valleys to charming urban parks, here’s where you can experience a pink-and-white spring day in Asia. 

Thailand

Northern Thailand’s Chiang Mai enjoys cool temperatures ideal for cherry blossom trees. There are several viewing spots in the district with various types of cherry blossoms that will surely make your gaze twinkle with awe. 

The Khun Chang Kian Highland Agriculture Research Centre boasts the prettiest pink blossoms from the Nang Phaya Suea Krong trees, which are known as the fresh pink Sakura of Thailand. It’s also the closest viewing spot from town, has long been a popular spot for lovers, and is a great spot for your next IG post. 

You can also check out Khun Wang Royal Agricultural Research Centre in Doi Inthanon National Park and witness the flourishing Wild Himalayan cherry blossoms in a deeper shade of pink or drive up north to visit Phu Lom Lo, specifically the Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park where you can see an entire mountainside and valley covered in an enchanting pastel pink!

Best time to visit: December to February

The Philippines

Believe it or not, there are actual cherry blossom trees planted in Philippine territory and are thriving. Located in Atok, Benguet, Sakura Park (a.k.a. Benguet-Kochi Sisterhood Park) boasts cherry blossom trees that bloom around March. Over a hundred trees were initially planted in 2015 in commemoration of strong ties between the province of Benguet and the Kochi prefecture of Japan. 

Unfortunately, only a few of them survived, which you can still view at the park. It was reported that there were two types of cherry blossoms planted there namely the Yakiwari Sakura, which has pink blooms, and the Sindaya Sakura, which bears white blossoms.

Additionally, the park boasts gorgeous flower fields of various shapes, colors, and sizes, and is close to the Northern Blossom Flower Farm, which is a stunning flower haven in bloom all year round!

Alternatively, the Philippines also has its own version of the Sakura blossoms which thrives in various parts of the country. The Palawan Balayongs with their light pink and white blooms are just as beautiful as the Sakura flowers and can grow in urban settings. Some of the places you can spot them are in Cavite, Pangasinan, and Puerto Princesa in the Palawan province. It was also reported that Salinggogon, which are known as the country’s native cherry blossoms, can be found in Rizal’s Masungi Georeserve.

Best time to visit: Early March to April 

Singapore

Due to its tropical climate, Singapore doesn’t have native cherry blossom trees. But they do have their own version called “Trumpet Trees.” These trees flower in March and April, coinciding with Japan’s cherry blossom season, and then again between August and September. 

The Tabebuia rosea tree blooms pretty pastel pink flowers mimicking the romantic Sakura blossoms. If you’re looking for a Hanami (flower viewing) experience on a budget, these trumpet trees are only an MRT ride away! You can catch them in bloom across the green city including Gardens By the Bay, Bishan-AMK Park, and the Jurong Lake Gardens. 

Speaking of Gardens By The Bay, you can witness actual cherry blossoms at their annual Sakura event! You can learn more about it here. 

Best time to visit: March to April and August to September 

South Korea

You can find a ton of cherry blossom spots across Japan’s closest neighbor, South Korea. Live your K-Drama dreams by walking along a stream filled with pink flowering trees on each side and witnessing the native King Cherry Blossom trees, which are known for their larger and brighter blooms. 

The South Korean tourism page releases an annual Cherry Blossoms forecast, so make sure to check it before you visit. They’re usually in bloom around late March starting from Jeju Island, followed by Busan, Seoul, and Gangneung in early April. 

South Korea also celebrates several cherry blossom festivals across the country where you won’t only get to see the iconic trees in bloom but also get cherry blossom-themed treats and souvenirs.

You can visit Yeojwacheon Stream where 350,000 cherry trees line both sides of the stream or the historic Gyeonghwa Station where the trees are lined between a railroad, making for a unique and picturesque photo spot. These two places are part of the Jinhae district where an annual cherry blossom festival is held.

Some other spots include Nami Island’s Cherry Tree Lane, which is famous for its stunning nature views and Jeju Island Cherry Blossom Festival held in Seogwipo’s downtown area. 

Best time to visit: March to April 

Taiwan

Another Asian country boasting these spring blooms is Taiwan, where the cherry blossoms season lasts from mid-January to early April. Much like in Japan and South Korea, Taiwan also publishes a yearly forecast, making it easier for tourists to know which part of the country the trees are in full bloom at a certain period. 

Check out Pingjing Lane Cherry Blossom Street at the heart of the capital to see blooms as early as the third week of January or head up north to Yangmingshan National Park where the park transforms into a stunning canvas of pink and white for its annual cherry blossom festival. Not only does this celebration provide the perfect viewing spot for Taipei’s gorgeous blooms, but it also features the country’s rich cultural tapestry, offering visitors a glimpse into local traditions. 

If you’re looking for a more remote spot, Wuling Farm is a small mountain resort in Taichung famous for flower viewing all year round! During spring, however, the cherry blossoms take the spotlight until late March before they’re replaced by peach blossoms. 

Best time to visit: Mid-January to early April 

When it comes to love, actions speak louder than words. It may be a universal language but the way people express it varies across cultures. Just take Asia, which has some of the world’s most unique love rituals deeply rooted in tradition and its diverse customs. 

From unique courting practices to symbolic wedding rites, these traditions offer a glimpse into how love is celebrated across the continent. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or cultural enthusiast, here are some enchanting romance rituals from Asia that might just inspire your next grand romantic gesture. 

Harana (The Philippines)

When Selena Gomez said, “I love you like a love song,” Filipinos know well how true that is as one of their long-standing courtship rituals is the “Harana.” In a country big on music and where singing is a "national pastime," it only makes sense that the best way to woo someone is by serenading them with heartfelt songs. 

During a Harana, a suitor would usually come up to the woman’s house with a guitar (and backup singers if you want to gain more points for this performance) and stand outside — usually by her window — to sing her love songs. If the woman steps outside to listen or even sings along, then we can consider the courtship a success. If the windows or door remain closed, however, let’s just say the suitor will be walking home to a few heartbreak songs.

Merisik (Malaysia)

“Knowing me, knowing you” as the song goes but in Malay culture, pursuing a serious relationship — and by serious we mean “marriage serious” — the very first step is attending a meeting called, “Merisik.” 

The word means “spying” but it is really more like a surveying custom where the families of the couple learn more about each other’s backgrounds. Merisik is usually carried out by the young man’s parents or relatives who informally inquire about the girl’s agreement to the intended marriage and seek consent from her parents. We think it’s a reasonable practice considering marriage is serious business and getting to know one’s family is vital. After all, you’re not just marrying a person, you’re marrying into each other’s families, too. 

The Ball Toss Tradition (Several Parts of Southeast Asia)

The Hmong people have a fascinating — and dare we say adorable courtship tradition involving a ball called, “Pov Pob.” During the New Year festivities, teenage boys and girls would stand in line and throw balls at each other while engaging in conversation. 

It’s a fun way for singles to express their interest, get to know each other, and form bonds which may eventually lead to marriage. Talk about shooting your shot (literally)! 

The Water-Pouring Ceremony (Thailand)

Also known as “Rod Nam Sang,” this rite is probably the most iconic part of a traditional Thai wedding. The act involves the newlyweds kneeling before their parents who then pour scented water over their hands from a conch. This is a sacred act that symbolizes the couple’s gratitude and respect for their parents and demonstrates filial piety. 

Afterward, each guest offers blessings and good wishes for the couple's bright future. There’s also a tradition that states that if the couple has unmarried older siblings, drinking the water from the conch can bring luck in finding a marriage partner. 

Qixi Festival (Hong Kong and Mainland China)

Also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day, the Qixi Festival is celebrated on the seventh day of the seventh month of the lunar calendar. The name means “Evening of Sevens Festival” and is deeply rooted in a popular Chinese folktale: the romantic legend of Zhinu and Niulang.

The folktale narrates the story of the goddess Zhinu, the seventh daughter of the Jade Emperor, who grew tired of her life in the celestial realm and came down to earth and fell for the mortal Niulang, a humble cowherd. When Zhinu’s mother, the goddess of Heaven, discovered their relationship, she separated the lovers by creating a vast celestial river between them which was later known as the Milky Way. Moved by the lovers’ forbidden romance, a flock of magpies formed a bridge over the river so that Niulang and Zhinu could meet, creating the “Magpie Bridge.” The goddess was touched and had a change of heart, eventually allowing the lovers to meet at the bridge once a year on the day the festival is celebrated for all of eternity (aww).

Chinese people would celebrate this day by stargazing and searching for stars Vega and Altair which represents the star-crossed lovers. Much like the Western romantic holiday, couples would exchange gifts, perform elaborate gestures, and spend the day with each other. The streets of Hong Kong are filled with activity too, from laser light shows to dance performances.

Like in any Chinese celebration, food plays a huge role. Qiaoguo, a sweet and crispy pastry with a sesame flavor, is a popular treat for the holiday. Other traditional dishes shared during this time are cloud noodles, sugar shaped like women and other characters from the legend, and dumplings.  

White Day (South Korea, Japan, and China)

If the number of successful K-Dramas has anything to say, it’s that South Korea takes romance very seriously. From love locks on a tower to romantic beliefs like seeing the first snowfall with someone means you’re meant to be together forever, South Korea knows how to tickle our romantic fancies. 

One of their unique customs is called, “White Day,” which is celebrated a month after Valentine’s Day on Mar. 14, and is the so-called “Reverse Valentine’s Day.” On Feb. 14, men are usually the recipients of gifts like chocolates and sweets from women. A month later, they are encouraged to return these romantic gestures. Many celebrities, male K-Pop idol group members in particular, would usually post selfies with flowers or chocolates that thrill their female fans.

The celebration originated in the late 1970s when the Japanese candy industry introduced the concept of “Marshmallow Day,” which was meant to encourage men to return the romantic gestures of women who had given them gifts on Valentine’s Day. This concept quickly gained popularity and evolved into what is now known as “White Day.” The romantic holiday is also celebrated in Japan and China, and though not explicitly explained, is a nice representation of how relationships should be: an act of give and take.  

ICYDK, South Korea also has a similar event to Valentine’s Day called “Pepero Day” where people engage in gifting or exchanging Pepero snacks, Lotte’s popular chocolate-covered pretzel stick. It’s celebrated every Nov. 11 because the numbered date resembles Pepero sticks in a pack (11/11). With how popular the gesture has become, it’s now the biggest annual marketing day for the confectionery company. 

Contrary to popular belief, Asia does have a winter season. But what it looks like varies widely depending on where you go. For the first quarter of the year, you can choose between snowy peaks or warm beaches, which makes it easier for travelers to tailor their winter holiday however they want.

But for this list, we’re listing down some of the “cooler” wintery things you can do in the region. From exciting ski resorts and snow festivals to chilly mountain views and indoor skating rinks, consider this your sign to extend the holiday season.

Relax In A Hot Springs In Sabah

Sabah, Malaysia has been frequently compared to Scotland or New Zealand due to its tranquil atmosphere where you can catch cattle grazing the fields and witness breathtaking sceneries. Now that we think about it, it makes the perfect JOMO destination, too!

Despite the lack of snow, which is what most travelers think of when it comes to “winter” activities, it doesn’t feel like you’re in a tropical country thanks to the fresh air and expanse of blue skies.

Hot springs are a well-known winter activity and guess what? You can totally do that here! The Poring Hot Springs boasts a relaxing sulphur spring bath which was first developed by the Japanese during World War II. The hot waters of the spring are piped into open-air baths, but they also offer indoor bathtubs if you prefer privacy.

To reach Poring's hot pools, you must cross a short suspension bridge over the Mamut River. From there, there’s a path that leads to a grove of Gigantochloa Levis, which is the giant bamboo species where Poring’s name came from.

The destination also offers a range of attractions such as Kipungit and Langanan waterfalls, the latter being the highest in Poring; a bat cave, and the chance to view Rafflesia, the largest flower in the world.

Cool Down in Baguio

There are only ever two seasons in the Philippines, wet and dry, and it’s tropically warm all year round. However, nestled in the Cordillera mountains — and just a scenic four to six-hour drive from Manila is Baguio City, where one can experience temperate to cool climates. Temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C even during the summer months. Last year, the beloved Summer Capital set a record low of 12.6°C!

Apart from the cool weather, Baguio offers a myriad of attractions and activities to fill your days. You can immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage by visiting the Easter Weaving Room where you can experience traditional Cordilleran region weaving; escape the hustle of the city and walk through the peaceful Baguio Botanical Garden; and even go on an adventure at Camp John Hay, an expansive complex offering outdoor activities from hiking, shopping, and dining to horseback riding.

Baguio is also known for its Strawberry Farms where you can harvest fresh strawberries to take home. On the other hand, if you’re simply looking to catch some scenic views, Mines View Park is the place to be.

Go Ice Skating in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a subtropical destination and experiences mild and dry winters with lows around 15°C, just enough to wear a jacket for those cool winter winds. And yes, those winds can make it feel even colder.

Although the possibility of snow is rare, Hong Kong offers a wide variety of winter activities for you to enjoy, including ice skating! There are several indoor ice rinks dotted across the city where you can chill and skate with friends and family.

The Glacier Ice Rink at Festive Mall is a popular choice for beginners as it offers a full range of lessons and summer camps should you want to pursue learning how to skate. It’s also one of the largest rinks in Hong Kong and is open from 10:30 AM to 8 PM. Entry tickets cost around HK$80, which includes skate rental.

Another rink worth mentioning is Mega Ice, which is Hong Kong’s first international-sized rink with a harbor view situated in the Beehive Atrium at MegaBox. It’s not only a great place to skate but also to watch sports events since Mega Ice is known to host world-class events like the Hockey 5’s and the Asian Figure Skating Championships. Rentals start from HK$80.

Shred the Slopes in Pyeongchang

Nothing screams winter holiday more than going to a ski resort. South Korea has a thriving ski culture boasting steep slopes equipped with modern facilities offering high-speed lifts, comfortable accommodations, and a range of services that cater to both beginners and advanced skiers.

Although the country is mountainous, it doesn’t have the traditional look of a ski resort, like those jagged peaks of the Alps or volcanoes blanketed in snow like in Hokkaido. However, they make up for it in efficiency by having modern resorts with fast lifts and impressive snowmaking. Also, skiing in Korea means you can enjoy a wide range of activities from dipping in hot springs and doing karaoke, to eating tasty Korean barbecue!

The biggest ski resort in the country is Yong Pyong which has over 28 ski slopes of various levels. In addition to having the world’s largest slope, it also has a very good level of snowfall and 7.4 km of ski lifts. This resort was also the official venue for some ski events in the 2018 Winter Olympics and is only around three hours from Seoul, accessible by shuttle or public buses. The resort offers various ski packages for couples and families and can cost as low as KRW5,679 for an overnight stay.

If you want to take a break from the sport, you can also take the scenic gondola ride to Dragon’s Peak where you can witness a beautiful snowy landscape of the Greater Kaeku Mountain Range. While you’re at it, enjoy a cup of coffee or fill your bellies at the Korean restaurants and steakhouses located on the peak.

K-Drama fans would also be thrilled to know that Dragon’s Peak was where Gong-Yoo and Kim Go-Eun shot some of their most romantic scenes in the 2016 hit drama, “Goblin: The Lonely and Great God,” making this an ideal set-jetting destination, as well.

Join A Snowy Festival In Sapporo

If there’s one thing Japan is known for in the winter months, it’s the annual Sapporo Snow Festival held in Hokkaido, its northernmost prefecture. This snowy event is held during a week in February in several locations around the city, and first began in 1950 when local middle and high school students made snow sculptures in Odori Park. This year’s festival will take place from Feb. 4 to 11.

Odori Park is currently the center of the festival and is where the International Snow Sculpture Contest is held where you’ll be able to witness about a dozen large snow and ice sculptures displayed alongside more than a hundred smaller ones. The park, as well as the Tsudome and Susukino sites also hosts concerts, events, and other attractions — many of which use the sculptures as their stage. To get a scenic view of the festival in the Odori site, climb up the Sapporo TV Tower’s observatory which you can enter for only JPY1,000.

There are also other winter activities you can enjoy in the city such as the many hot springs, saunas, and sento bathhouses that will surely warm you up from the frigid cold, and the exquisite seasonal flavors and dishes you can try like the tender crabs and the classic Sapporo Ramen.