09/10/2024
Asia: The Perfect Panacea for Grey Skies
As our skies turn dark and grey with the arrival of autumn, Asia comes into its own with the passing of its monsoon. The rains stop, humidity dials down, and clear blue skies break through, bringing glitzy cityscapes, looming mountain landscapes, and crystal-clear lakes into sharp focus, announcing one of the best seasons to visit Asia.
Festivals and celebrations abound, highlighting local cultures and customs in almost all corners of the region. They focus on everything from harvest to planting, the arts, crafts, music, dance and religions, paying homage to ancestors, and nurturing the next generation... making your journey even more enjoyable.
Explore our destinations for consideration with Grapevine Travel.
Sunshine and Discovery
Our Hotspots to visit this Winter
Nagaland Festival in the Northeast of India
Winter Festivals of India
The arrival of cool, dry weather in October announces the end of the monsoon and ushers in the festive season when the whole country celebrates and parties. This is an ideal time to visit India and enjoy the traditional sites while building bridges with local communities. While the big festivals like Diwali are thoroughly enjoyable, we find some of the more rural village and tribal festivals facilitate greater connection with local people.
Pink Flamingos of Mannar Island, Sri Lanka
Winter Sun in Sri Lanka
Affordable luxury and great service are traditionally the big draw for Sri Lanka's tropical beaches, cultural sites, wildlife adventures, and unbelievably great food. For us, Jaffna and its treasure trove of historic sites and tiny islands off the northern coast are among the most inviting. Autumn and winter are ideal for visiting these parts to experience hundreds of species of migratory birds, including thousands of flamingoes and other wildlife.
Tigers Nest Monastery, Bhutan
Bhutan: The land of the Thunder Dragon
The land of the Thunder Dragon and Gross National Happiness - Bhutan's commitment to its maintaining its natural and cultural heritage has to be lauded. Its pristine peaks, crystal clear rivers and the cleanest air will you will ever breathe stand testament. Holidays here are nature-centric with a sustainable approach. Top of the list is a day trek to the iconic Tiger's Nest – a unique and fulfilling experience steeped in Bhutanese folklore and legends.
Japaneese Fall
Japan's Spectacular Autumn Season
While the Cherry Blossom season is always popular, it's Japan's autumn that leaves visitors spellbound. Even cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka glow against the vibrant reds and oranges. Venturing off the beaten path into Sacred trails, National Parks, and monasteries offers stunning and serene walks. For an authentic experience, stay in a traditional ryokan and enjoy natural hot spring baths, Kaiseki cuisine, and luxurious accommodations.
Pha That Luang Temple, Vientiane
Lesser Known Laos
Enchanting and tranquil, a visit to Laos is akin to walking the annals of history. Landlocked and isolated by war, its people clung stoically to the past. Autumn here is one ideal for explorations, when the rivers flow full, the skies are clear, and the days long and dry, ideal for exploring its vibrant ethnic minority villages, ancient monasteries and temples, tree-lined boulevards of Vientiane and the extraordinary and enigmatic plain of Jars.
Rice Terraces of Sapa, Vietnam
Everchanging Vietnam
The landscape, culture and weather change as you travel through Vietnam. Autumn's cool, dry winds arrive in the north, and we suggest starting your journey here, in the capital, Hanoi, before heading for the rice terraces of Sapa. The ancient capitals of Hue and Hoi An, mid-country, deserve slow and relaxed explorations, as does the Mekong delta further south. Ho Chi Minh City and its fashionable cafes are a great way to finish off your tour
Details Tel. 01905 797771