Asia General Information
Asia has a variety of cultures, histories, and locations unmatched anywhere else in the world. It is a remarkable place to sail and explore by yacht because of its extensive tropical coastlines, unique destinations, fantastic beaches, and a variety of marine life. On this page, we explore most of Asia’s general information that will assist you in planning your trip.
Getting to Southeast Asia
International flights from the US, Europe, and Australia will come into the main airport hubs of Singapore and Hong Kong. Flights from Europe to Phuket and Bangkok in Thailand will also be direct flights. Within the region, there are dozens of national and regional airlines from which to choose. Over the last few years, budget airlines have grown tremendously, including Tiger Airways, Jetstar, and Air Asia. Most of the established tourist destinations will issue tourist visas on arrival. Some of the newer sailing regions, such as Cambodia, might require a visa application in advance.
Activities | Asia General Information
You can enjoy a range of activities during your sailing holiday in Southeast Asia. Some of the world’s top dive sites are located in Malaysia and Thailand, the surfing in the Andaman Islands and some parts of Indonesia is world-class, and fantastic snorkeling can be found in almost every bay and inlet. Or, how about whale-watching in Indonesia, game fishing in the Similan Islands and the Andaman Islands, or a visit to a spa in Thailand? The possibilities are endless.
Languages
The diverse peoples of Southeast Asia, of course, speak a wide variety of languages and dialects. However, English is spoken widely, especially in big cities and tourist areas.
Climate | Asia General Information
The climate in the Asia region is mainly tropical, with year-round heat hovering around 30°C and varying humidity levels. The region straddles the equator, so the seasons north and south of the equator vary. Typically, there are two main seasons. The dry season is hot, dry, and sunny, and this is the high tourist season. The off-season, perhaps wrongly named the wet season, has daily rain showers, but extended periods of sunshine often follow the showers. This leads to all-year-round sailing weather in places like Thailand.
Cuisine
One of the other great attractions of the region is the Asian cuisine, world-renowned as a feast for the senses with its unique flavors and spices. Significant influences in Southeast Asian cuisines have come not only from China and India but also from the introduction the chili by the Portuguese in the 16th century, which now provides the basis and “heat” for so many Southeast Asian dishes. Chinese cuisine aims to achieve a harmonious balance of textures, temperatures, and the four primary flavors; sweet, sour, salty, and bitter.
Countries | Asia General Information
Brunei
Brunei is a tiny nation on the island of Borneo. It has two distinct sections and is surrounded by Malaysia and the South China Sea. It is known for its beaches and biodiverse rainforest. The capital is Bandar Seri Begawan. The official language is Malay, and the currency is the Brunei dollar.
Thailand
Thailand, a Southeast Asian country, is known for tropical beaches, opulent royal palaces, ancient ruins, and ornate temples. The capital is Bangkok.
The official language is Thai, and the currency is Thai baht.
Indonesia
Indonesia is in Southeast Asia and Oceania between the Indian and Pacific oceans. It consists of over 17,000 islands, including Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, and parts of Borneo and New Guinea.
The capital is Jakarta, and the language is Indonesian. The currency is the Indonesian rupiah.
Papua New Guinea
The southwestern Pacific country of Papua New Guinea encompasses the eastern half of New Guinea and its offshore islands. This country is known for its beaches, coral reefs, inland active volcanoes, and dense rainforests. There are also traditional tribal villages, many with their own languages.
The capital is Port Moresby, and the currency is the Papua New Guinean kina. Official languages are Tok Pisin, English, Hiri Motu, and Papua New Guinean Sign Language.
