12 Visa-Free Asian Destinations for American Tourists

Asian destinations hold so much appeal for travelers from all over the world. If you want to make your money go further while exploring someplace that feels completely removed from the Americas, maybe an Asian country should be next on your hit list. When you don’t want the hassle of arranging a visa before departing, any of the following dozen countries make a great last-minute vacation spot.

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Hong Kong

Now considered part of China and formerly ruled by the British, Hong Kong is the ultimate cultural melting pot. Come here for glittering skyscrapers contrasting against traditional Chinese cuisine and culture. This is among the world’s top destinations to discover where East meets West.

Indonesia

Beautiful Bali is one of Indonesia’s biggest draws, but the country’s other islands also have lots to offer. Explore neighboring Lombok and climb its volcano, or head to the Gili Islands off the coast for superb snorkeling and laid-back beach life. Komodo National Park is also deservedly popular, not least as the place where you encounter Komodo dragons.

Israel

Though you should check current travel advice before planning an Israel trip due to the potentially volatile political situation, the country has so much going for it. Tel Aviv has a refreshing Mediterranean feel; you can float weightlessly in the famous Dead Sea. Religious meccas and ancient architecture complete the picture.

Japan

Japan is a destination quite unlike any other on the planet, let alone Asia. Come here for cutting-edge cities, cartoon culture, bullet trains, Mount Fuji, traditional rituals, hot springs, and more. If you’re short on time, focus on Tokyo and Kyoto, which offer an enticing blend of the old and the new between them.

Jordan

Jordan’s ancient archeological sites – chiefly Petra – tend to be seen as the country’s main attractions. You can also experience desert life at Wadi Rum, explore Middle Eastern culture, sample local food, and even spend the night in a traditional Bedouin tent. The Dead Sea also laps at Jordan’s shores.

Macau

Make like James Bond by heading to the relatively non-touristy and very compact Asian destination of Macau. Skyfall might have put Macau’s casinos on the map, but the country also offers a fascinating mix of Chinese and Portuguese culture and cuisine. Other places to visit include the world’s tenth tallest tower, Seac Pai Van Park for pandas, a black sand beach, the Fisherman’s Wharf theme park, and a gigantic Ferris wheel.

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Malaysia

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Malaysia’s vibrant cities and beautiful beaches often seem to be overshadowed by those of neighboring Thailand, but savvy travelers are now wising up. Kuala Lumpur offers the Asian version of the Twin Towers, while Penang Island has traditional Chinese shophouses and a unique cuisine fusing Indian, Chinese, and Malaysian flavors. Head to Borneo to see orangutans, or choose Langkawi for luxury five-star resorts.

Mongolia

Understanding the nomadic way of life can be a real highlight of visiting Mongolia. The country’s attractions include awe-inspiring temples, old monasteries, and vast nature reserves. The iconic Trans-Mongolian Railway also passes through when transporting adventurous travelers between Russia and China.

The Philippines

The lovely islands of the Philippines archipelago offer everything you’d expect from an Asian beach destination. But travelers can also explore the walled city within Manila, gaze at sculpted rice terraces, visit modern museums, and see a mix of classic architecture. Back at the beaches, you can swim with whale sharks, go scuba diving, or don a mask and snorkel to discover the underwater world.

Singapore

The compact Asian nation of Singapore offers the opportunity to sample authentic food from all over the continent, not least in the Chinatown Food Street and Little India districts. You can also visit sunny Sentosa Island, the upmarket Marina Bay Sands complex, and sample a Singapore Sling at Raffles’ historic Long Bar. The city’s shopping scene is also widely regarded as second to none.

South Korea

South Korea is at the forefront of modern technology, making it a must for fans of gadgetry. Seoul is a riverside city offering an appealing blend of traditional shophouses and modern skyscrapers and the best place to sample up-and-coming Korean cuisine. In case you’re wondering, Gangnam is an upmarket part of the city and is iconic when it comes to Korean Wave pop culture.

Thailand

Thailand is famous for its lovely islands, beach resorts, and lively cities. Must-visits include the capital of Bangkok for night markets, street food, and incredible temples. You can also see fine examples of the latter when visiting the northern city of Chiang Mai and the Golden Triangle. Or head south to sample island life, taking your pick from places such as Koh Tao, Phuket, Koh Samui, the Krabi area, and Koh Lanta.