Far East Holidays & Tours – Escorted & Tailor-Made
Far East Holidays & Tours – Escorted Touring and Tailor-Made Holidays
Discover the incredible sights, cultures and landscapes of the Far East and Asia with Hessle Travel. From Japan's ancient temples and futuristic cities to China's Great Wall, the colourful streets of India, Thailand's tropical beaches and Vietnam's spectacular scenery, Asia offers some of the world's most memorable travel experiences.
Whether you dream of joining an escorted group tour, exploring fascinating historic cities, discovering local traditions, travelling through beautiful countryside or creating your own tailor-made adventure, we can help you find the right holiday.
We can help you explore holidays across Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, China, Malaysia, Vietnam and Cambodia, working with leading touring specialists including Riviera Travel, Titan Travel, Newmarket Holidays, Mercury Holidays, Travelsphere and Wendy Wu Tours.
From classic touring itineraries that cover the highlights to more individual holidays combining several destinations, we can help you compare options, travel dates and prices.
Explore Far East Tours with Our Leading Tour Operators
We work with a selection of established touring specialists, each offering its own itineraries, experiences and style of travel. Explore their Hessle Travel pages below to find out more about the holidays they offer and contact us to check prices before booking direct.
Riviera Travel – Escorted Tours & Holidays
Titan Travel – Worldwide Escorted Tours
Newmarket Holidays – Guided Tours & Holidays
Mercury Holidays – Escorted Tours & Worldwide Holidays
Travelsphere – Escorted Touring Holidays
Wendy Wu Tours – Specialist Asia & Worldwide Tours
Our team can help you compare different touring styles, itineraries and departure dates to find a holiday that matches your interests, preferred pace and budget.
Japan Holidays – Escorted Tours & Tailor-Made Travel
Japan is a fascinating destination where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge technology. Discover neon-lit city streets, peaceful temples, traditional gardens, spectacular mountain scenery and some of the world's most impressive rail journeys.
Explore the excitement of Tokyo, the cultural heritage of Kyoto, the scenery around Mount Fuji and the food and nightlife of Osaka. Many itineraries also include Hiroshima, historic Nara, traditional villages and journeys on Japan's famous Bullet Train.
Japan is particularly rewarding on an escorted tour, with transport, accommodation and sightseeing organised for you. Alternatively, a tailor-made holiday gives you greater freedom to choose your destinations, travel dates, hotels and experiences.
Depending on your interests, you could travel during the famous cherry blossom season, admire Japan's autumn colours, discover the Japanese Alps or venture further afield to Hokkaido and southern Japan.
Explore our dedicated Japan page for more information about escorted tours, destinations and touring options.
Discover Japan Tours & Holidays
South Korea Holidays – Modern Cities & Ancient Traditions
South Korea is an exciting destination combining futuristic cities, centuries-old temples, beautiful landscapes and a fascinating cultural heritage. From the energy of Seoul to traditional villages and peaceful mountain scenery, it offers a memorable introduction to a different side of Asia.
Seoul is a highlight for many visitors, with royal palaces, traditional markets, contemporary architecture, shopping districts and a world-famous food scene. Explore the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace, wander through traditional neighbourhoods and discover the contrast between old and new Korea.
Busan offers a different atmosphere, with coastal scenery, beaches, colourful hillside neighbourhoods, seafood markets and historic temples. Other destinations may include Gyeongju, known for its ancient Silla heritage, and the traditional village of Andong.
Escorted tours can make it easier to discover the country's history and cultural highlights, while a tailor-made holiday allows you to choose how long to spend in each city and which experiences matter most to you.
South Korea can also be combined with Japan on selected multi-country itineraries, creating an exciting holiday featuring two very different East Asian cultures.
Thailand Holidays – Temples, Tropical Islands & Culture
Thailand offers an extraordinary mix of vibrant cities, ancient temples, tropical beaches, beautiful islands and welcoming hospitality. Whether you want a cultural touring holiday, a relaxing beach escape or a tailor-made adventure combining several regions, Thailand has plenty to offer.
Bangkok is a fascinating introduction, with magnificent temples, bustling markets, river journeys, street food and impressive modern shopping districts. Explore the Grand Palace, admire Wat Pho and discover the city's lively atmosphere.
Chiang Mai and northern Thailand offer a more relaxed experience, with historic temples, mountain scenery, traditional markets and opportunities to discover local culture. Depending on your itinerary, you may also explore Chiang Rai and the famous Golden Triangle region.
Ayutthaya is known for its historic temple ruins and former royal capital, making it an excellent destination for travellers interested in Thailand's past.
For beach lovers, Thailand offers destinations including Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui and other beautiful islands. A tailor-made holiday could combine city sightseeing and cultural touring with several days relaxing beside the sea.
Thailand is also a popular choice for multi-country holidays, with possible combinations including Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia and other parts of Southeast Asia, subject to the itinerary and travel arrangements.
Discover Thailand Tours & Holidays
Sri Lanka Holidays – Wildlife, Ancient Cities & Tropical Scenery
Sri Lanka is a beautiful island destination offering a remarkable combination of cultural landmarks, wildlife, tea plantations, tropical beaches and scenic rail journeys. It is an excellent choice for travellers looking to experience a variety of landscapes and experiences in one holiday.
Sigiriya is famous for its spectacular ancient rock fortress, while the historic cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa reveal the island's fascinating heritage. Kandy is another popular stop, known for the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and its cultural traditions.
Travel into the central highlands to discover the tea-growing region around Nuwara Eliya and Ella, where rolling green hills, waterfalls and scenic train journeys create some of Sri Lanka's most memorable views.
Wildlife enthusiasts may enjoy national parks where elephants and other animals can be spotted on guided safaris. Along the coast, destinations such as Galle offer historic architecture, while the southern beaches provide opportunities to relax after a touring adventure.
An escorted tour can bring together the island's main cultural and natural highlights. Alternatively, a tailor-made itinerary can combine private transfers, selected hotels, wildlife experiences, scenic journeys and time on the beach.
India Holidays – Incredible History, Culture & Colour
India is one of the world's most fascinating touring destinations, with magnificent monuments, historic cities, vibrant markets, spiritual traditions, varied landscapes and an extraordinary range of regional food and culture.
The Golden Triangle is a popular introduction to northern India, combining Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Discover the bustling capital, admire the magnificent Taj Mahal and explore Jaipur's palaces, forts and colourful bazaars.
Rajasthan offers impressive forts, desert landscapes, historic cities and traditional architecture. Destinations such as Jodhpur, Udaipur and Jaisalmer provide an insight into the region's royal heritage and distinctive culture.
Kerala in southern India offers a very different experience, with tropical scenery, tea plantations, waterways, wildlife and opportunities to discover traditional village life. A stay on a houseboat in the Kerala backwaters can be a memorable addition to a touring holiday.
Other possibilities include Mumbai, Varanasi, the Himalayan foothills and the wildlife reserves of central India. The best itinerary depends on the time available and the experiences you want to include.
India can be rewarding on an escorted tour, particularly for first-time visitors, while tailor-made travel gives you the flexibility to focus on specific regions, hotels and experiences.
China Holidays – Iconic Landmarks & Ancient Civilisations
China offers an extraordinary touring experience, combining ancient history, remarkable architecture, modern cities and spectacular natural scenery. From world-famous landmarks to traditional towns and dramatic landscapes, there is an enormous amount to discover.
Beijing is a major highlight, with the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Explore the city's historic landmarks and discover its traditional neighbourhoods.
Xi'an is famous for the Terracotta Warriors, one of China's most remarkable archaeological discoveries. The city also offers historic walls, traditional markets and a fascinating insight into China's imperial past.
Shanghai provides a contrast, with its impressive skyline, waterfront architecture, shopping districts and mix of traditional and modern influences.
Other touring possibilities include Chengdu, known for its giant pandas, the landscapes around Guilin and Yangshuo, and journeys along the Yangtze River. Depending on the itinerary, tours can combine major cities with countryside, historic sites and cultural experiences.
An escorted tour is an excellent way to explore China, particularly when visiting several destinations and navigating the country's extensive transport network. Tailor-made holidays may also be available for travellers wanting a more individual itinerary.
Malaysia Holidays – Kuala Lumpur, Rainforests & Tropical Islands
Malaysia offers a fascinating combination of modern cities, tropical rainforests, diverse cultures, historic towns and beautiful islands. It is an appealing destination for travellers who want to combine sightseeing and nature with time to relax.
Kuala Lumpur is a popular starting point, with its famous Petronas Twin Towers, lively markets, diverse food scene and a mix of modern and traditional architecture.
Penang is known for the historic streets of George Town, its colourful heritage buildings, temples and celebrated street food. It is a rewarding destination for travellers interested in history, culture and cuisine.
Malacca offers a fascinating glimpse into Malaysia's trading history, with historic architecture and cultural influences from different periods.
Nature lovers may want to discover the rainforests of Borneo, where guided experiences can introduce you to tropical wildlife, conservation areas and indigenous cultures. Other options include the Cameron Highlands, with their tea plantations and cooler mountain scenery.
Malaysia's islands and coastal resorts provide opportunities to finish a touring holiday with time by the sea. A tailor-made itinerary can combine Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Borneo and a beach stay, depending on your interests and travel dates.
Discover Malaysia Escorted Tours
Vietnam Holidays – Dramatic Landscapes & Rich Culture
Vietnam is a captivating destination with historic cities, beautiful coastlines, dramatic countryside, traditional villages and an outstanding food culture. Stretching from north to south, it offers a wide variety of experiences and is particularly well suited to escorted tours and tailor-made itineraries.
Hanoi provides an atmospheric introduction, with its Old Quarter, lakes, temples and traditional street food. From here, travellers can explore northern Vietnam's spectacular landscapes.
Ha Long Bay is famous for its limestone islands rising from emerald waters. A boat cruise through the bay is a memorable experience and can be included in selected itineraries.
Hoi An is known for its lantern-lit streets, historic architecture, riverside setting and traditional atmosphere. Nearby Da Nang offers beaches and access to the surrounding region.
Hue is an important historic destination, with its imperial citadel, royal tombs and connections to Vietnam's former imperial dynasty.
Ho Chi Minh City offers a lively urban experience, with historic landmarks, markets and excellent opportunities to explore Vietnamese cuisine. The Mekong Delta is another popular addition, with waterways, villages and rural scenery.
An escorted tour can combine the main highlights from north to south, while a tailor-made holiday allows you to choose your preferred pace, accommodation, excursions and time at the beach.
Discover Vietnam Escorted Tours
Cambodia Holidays – Angkor Wat & Ancient Khmer Heritage
Cambodia is a remarkable destination for history and culture, best known for the extraordinary temples of Angkor. It can be visited as part of a dedicated holiday or combined with neighbouring countries on a wider Southeast Asian touring adventure.
Siem Reap is the gateway to Angkor, where the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex and surrounding archaeological sites reveal the achievements of the ancient Khmer civilisation.
Explore atmospheric temple ruins, intricate stone carvings and jungle-framed monuments. Sunrise visits to Angkor Wat are particularly memorable, while the wider complex offers many fascinating sites beyond the best-known temple.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital, offers a different perspective on the country, with the Royal Palace, historic landmarks, markets and museums that tell the story of Cambodia's past.
Depending on your interests, a holiday may also include the countryside, traditional villages and the Tonlé Sap lake region.
Cambodia is frequently combined with Vietnam or Thailand on multi-country touring holidays. An escorted itinerary can simplify the arrangements between destinations, while a tailor-made holiday gives you the flexibility to decide how long to spend in each place.
Escorted Tours or Tailor-Made Holidays – Which Is Right for You?
There are several ways to discover the Far East. The best choice depends on your travel style, how much independence you want and the destinations you would like to visit.
Escorted Touring Holidays
An escorted tour is an excellent option if you want to see the main highlights of a destination while leaving much of the organisation to an experienced tour operator.
- Planned itineraries covering major attractions and destinations.
- Tour managers or local guides, depending on the holiday.
- Transport and accommodation arranged as part of the itinerary.
- Included excursions and experiences, depending on the package.
- The opportunity to travel with a group and share experiences.
- Convenient arrangements when visiting several destinations.
Escorted tours can be particularly appealing for first-time visitors to countries such as Japan, China and India, where local knowledge and organised transport can make a complex itinerary easier to enjoy.
Tailor-Made Far East Holidays
If you prefer more flexibility, a tailor-made holiday can be designed around your interests, travel dates and budget. You can choose the destinations you want to visit, decide how long to spend in each location and select accommodation to suit your preferences.
- Choose your own destinations and length of stay.
- Combine cities, countryside, cultural experiences and beaches.
- Select hotels and accommodation to suit your travel style.
- Arrange private transfers, rail journeys and selected excursions where available.
- Combine countries on a multi-centre holiday where practical.
- Add extra nights or time to explore places that interest you most.
For example, you could combine Japan's major cities with time in the Japanese Alps, explore Vietnam and Cambodia on one journey, or combine Thailand's temples and cities with a relaxing beach stay.
India and Sri Lanka can also offer interesting touring combinations, while Malaysia can be paired with other destinations in Southeast Asia depending on your preferred itinerary.
We can help you explore both escorted and tailor-made options, making it easier to decide which style of holiday suits you best.
Why Book Your Far East Holiday with Hessle Travel?
Planning a long-haul holiday can involve many decisions, from choosing the right destination and travel dates to comparing itineraries, accommodation and excursions.
At Hessle Travel, we can help you explore holidays from established touring specialists and discuss the options available for your preferred destination. Whether you are looking for a fully escorted group tour or a more individual tailor-made adventure, we can help you find a suitable holiday.
- A choice of escorted tours and tailor-made holidays.
- Nine fascinating destinations across Asia and the Far East.
- Access to leading tour operators including Wendy Wu Tours and Travelsphere.
- Help comparing itineraries, dates and holiday inclusions.
- Options for cultural touring, wildlife, scenic journeys and beach extensions.
- Advice from a local independent travel agent.
- The opportunity to check our price before booking direct.
Every operator offers different itineraries, and not every operator covers every destination. We can help you check the current programmes and identify the most suitable options for your holiday.
Start Planning Your Far East Adventure
Whether you dream of Japan's temples and bullet trains, South Korea's vibrant cities, Thailand's tropical islands, Sri Lanka's tea plantations, India's magnificent monuments, China's ancient wonders, Malaysia's rainforests, Vietnam's beautiful coastline or Cambodia's incredible temples, the Far East offers a world of discovery.
Contact Hessle Travel to discuss your plans and explore escorted tours and tailor-made holidays from our selection of leading touring specialists.
Call Hessle Travel on 01482 641064. Tell us which country you would like to visit, when you want to travel and whether you prefer an escorted tour or a tailor-made holiday. We will help you explore the available options and check what price we can offer.
Contact us for Far East Holidays
Hessle Travel – your local independent travel agent for worldwide escorted tours and tailor-made holidays.
