Bhutan
Bhutan is a country nestled in the eastern Himalayas. The country has been visited by a great many saints, mystics, scholars and pilgrims over the centuries who not only come for their personal elucidation, but blessed the land and its people with an invaluable spiritual and cultural legacy that has shaped every facet of Bhutanese lives. Visitors and guests to the country will be surprised that the culture and the traditional lifestyle is still richly intact and at the degree to which it permeates all strands of modern day secular life. From the traditional woven garments to the prayer flags on high mountain slopes, from the built environment to the natural environment, from the religious mask dances to the folk dances, this cultural heritage is proudly evident and offers a unique cultural setting.
Galilee
Galilee is the northern region of Israel. It is a mountainous region with waterfalls and beautiful views across the green bush-covered mountains. There are national parks, nature preserves and mineral baths in this area. The Sea of Galilee is an area closely associated with the life and time of Jesus making it a religious center for both Christians and Jews. Galilee has many religious shrines and historical sites of interest. Today it is a popular vacation spot offering year-round water activities, hot springs, health resorts and magnificent national parks.
Israel
Everyone has their own perception of what Israel is about: it’s a package of beaches and sun; it’s the Promised Land of the Jews; it’s the birthplace of Christ. And while it is all of these things, it's much more. Israel is a bustling, noisy, modern country. It’s best not to arrive with preconceptions of spiritual epiphany at the risk of missing the best this fascinating country has to offer. To understand Israel, visit the new, cosmopolitan city of Tel Aviv, dive the Red Sea at Eilat, explore some of the country's thriving national parks and float for hours in the salty stillness of the Dead Sea.
Jordan
Bible stories, lost cities, Lawrence of Arabia - Jordan has so many romantic associations. Jordan is, on the whole, peaceful. It's one of the most welcoming, hospitable countries in the world. It's also home to two of the most spectacular sights in the Middle East. Petra, the ancient city of the Nabateans, is one of the world's most atmospheric ruins. The startling desert scenery of Wadi Rum enraptured Lawrence of Arabia and has caused travellers to don a kaffiyeh and gaze defiantly into the distance.
Kochi (Cochin)
Kochi (Cochin) is the great, old Keralan spice city. It consists of mainland Ernakulam, islands of Willingdon, Bolgatty and Gundu in the harbor, Fort Cochin and Mattancheri on the southern peninsula and Vypeen Island north of Cochin. Because of the area’s dense tropical forests, extensive ridges and ravines, it has been sheltered from invaders and the rest of India. This encouraged Keralites to welcome maritime contact, and therefore influence from the outside world. In Cochin there is still a small community of descendants from Jewish settlers who fled Palestine 2,000 years ago. When the Portuguese arrived here some 500 years ago, they were surprised to find Christianity already established along this coast. People from far-off lands have been coming to Kerala since ancient times in search of spices, sandalwood and ivory. Such long contact with people from overseas has resulted in the blending of various cultures and has given Keralites a cosmopolitan outlook.
Nepal
Draped along the great heights of the Himalayas, Nepal is a land of sublime scenery, time-worn temples, and some of the best walking trails on earth. It's a poor country rich in scenic splendour and cultural treasures. The kingdom is the kind of country that lingers in dreams long after leaving it. Whether it be adrenaline kicks from some of the world's premier white-water rafting, kayaking and mountain biking, or from the sight of a tiger or rhino through the dawn mist from atop an elephant in Chitwan National Park, Nepal is destined to make a big impression. Many visitors, drawn to Nepal by the promise of adventure, leave charmed also by the friendliness of the Nepali people and their amazingly rich and diverse culture.
Thailand
The kingdom of Thailand lies in the heart of Southeast Asia, making it a natural gateway to Indochina, Myanmar and Southern China. There is never a dull day in Thailand. Whether it is the Songkran Festival or the first cool breeze of winter, there is always something to make visitors smile, laugh, cry or get excited. Thailand is a land of magic and mystery that attracts the Western world and those who seek advantage and romance. Blessed with beautiful natural resources and extraordinary culture, it is no wonder Thais are such fun-loving people.