Still, got no plans for this winter? We at Airflyby recommend visiting one of these Asian countries below, admiring their unchanging beauty, and participating in some of their best-known events.
Luckily, various Asian countries have reopened and are now welcoming vaccinated tourists from around the world.
Asian Countries Open for Vaccinated Tourists
Singapore – After 20 months with closed borders, Singapore finally eased its travel regulations. Tourists entering or transiting the country, including citizens and permanent residents, must take a pre-departure Covid-19 PCR test or a rapid Antigen Test.
Thailand – Visitors from 63 countries included in the entry permission list are no longer obliged to stay in a lengthy quarantine. Booking a room in a government-approved hotel is still a must.
Malaysia – Fully vaccinated tourists ready to stay for at least three days are now allowed to visit Malaysia’s Langkawi islands. However, providing a PCR test result is still a must.
Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka is currently open for almost all destinations; however, some countries are currently banned due to the Omicron variant. It is important to note that all visitors must pay mandatory Covid-19 insurance of 12 USD. Fully vaccinated travelers are exempted from purchasing it till December 31st, 2021.
India – For the first time in almost two years, the country has reopened its borders to foreign visitors who were fully immunized. Travelers coming from countries identified as “at-risk” must undergo Covid testing, and if tested positive, they’ll be shifted to a medical facility. If negative, they’ll need to self-quarantine for seven days.
Taiwan – The country is still open for essential travel; thus, all visitors must submit a negative PCR COVID-19 test result and quarantine for 14 days. The government announced that as of January 4th the 3-day period of a COVID-19 RT-PCR test report required for inbound passengers would be changed to two days.
Events Taking Place In Asia in the First Months of 2022
Thaipusam, Malaysia
Date: Jan 18-Jan 20 2022
The religious festival at Batu Caves lasts for over three days and is a remembrance of Lord Murugan, the Hindu god of war. After attending the event, you can go on with the country exploration. For shopping, fun, and architecture, visit Kuala Lumpur, specifically its ultramodern Petronas Towers, the old Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, and Jamek Mosque.
Chinese New Year, Singapore
Dates: 12 Feb-13 Feb 2022
The Chinese New Year marks the first day of the year on the Chinese lunar calendar. Among the main public events to attend during this period are Chingay Parade and the River Hongbao celebration. Aside from attending the New Year celebration, make sure you see the famous Marina Bay Sands resort complex, Gardens by the Bay, Merlion Park, and Sentosa Island.
Taiwan Lantern Festival, Taiwan
Dates: Feb 1 – Feb 28, 2022
Boasting hot air balloon rides, theme lantern displays, folk arts, and performances, the festival is among the most anticipated in the country. Even children go out with red paper lanterns during the event to let their past go. Here are some attractions to go to while in the country, Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake, Chimei Museum, as well as Dragon and Tiger Pagodas.
Chiang Mai Flower Festival, Thailand
Dates: Feb 4– Feb 6, 2022
The event features displays of yellow and white chrysanthemums and the Damask Rose found only in Chiang Mai. Its highlight is the flower parade with beautiful costumes, musical performances, and flowers, of course. While here visit the country’s highest peak- Doi Inthanon, Wat Chedi Luang ruins, see rescued elephants at Elephant Nature Park, and go for a picnic at Huay Tung Tao artificial lake.
Jaisalmer Desert Festival, India
Dates: 14, 2022 – Feb 16, 2022
Taking place yearly and lasting for three days, the festival brings colors to the desert of Thar in Jaisalmer. Displaying traditional handicrafts, folk dances, fire dancers, and camel races, it is among the most extravagant events of the country and a visit-worthy for sure. You must definitely visit the following spots while nearby: Jaisalmer Fort, Bada Bagh lush garden, Sam Sand Dunes, and Gadisar Lake.
Whether you are from the United States, Europe, or any other destination and would like to get away from the city bustle for some fun, Asia is a great pick.