Choose from 1,872 Fun Things to Do in Asia
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Army Museum of Singapore
Singapore’s very own army museum relates the history of the army and the contributions of National Service men through a collection of over 500 sets of artifacts, which consist of medals, personal memos and a trainee bunk, for example.
The Army Museum of Singapore gives visitors the chance to catch a glimpse of Singapore’s pre-independence turbulent days in a highly sensory way. Visitors intrigued by the daily life of a soldier can truly experience what it feels and smells like while watching the 30-minute interactive video “A Day in the Life” in a special effects theater, which depicts a modern army during a battle. Many other interactive activities take place throughout the museum, like the mini obstacles course called Adventure Land which showcases how soldiers are trained for combat fitness. Young soldiers will enjoy both the “Army Operations” activity, in which they will attempt to decipher the codename of army operations, and the crowd-pleaser “Robot World”, where they will get a chance to control their own mechanical agent. The key exhibition and, incidentally, one of the most poignant, is undoubtedly the “Making of a Soldier”, which portrays the life of a National service marine back in the 1970s post-British occupation, including an original military bunk bed from the Pulau Tekong training camp and several pieces of military hardware.
Practical Info
The Army Museum of Singapore is located in south-western Singapore, just a few minutes’ walk from the Joo Koon train station (line EW). Visitors can also get there by bus (routes 182 or 193) and by car (via CTE, AYE and PIE). The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 9AM and 6PM. Admission is free for all Singaporean citizens but it costs $5 per foreign adult and $3 per foreign child.
Address: 500 Upper Jurong Road, Blk 78 #02-25, Singapore
Hours: Tues-Sun 9AM and 6PM
Admission: $5 (adults) $3 (children)
From $ 120
Art in Paradise
Art in Paradise is an interactive 3D art gallery in Chiang Mai. Visitors get to become a part of the art, interacting with paintings and installations to create various illusions and gain some unique photos opportunities in a family friendly environment.
From a ride on Aladdin's flying carpet to an exploration expedition of the deep blue sea, Art in Paradise encourages travelers to use their imaginations and tap into their inner child in order to create and complete the artworks on display. This three-story gallery has various zones to explore with different themes, including an ocean area, a zoo site, a classic art theme and Thai and Egyptian areas. There's also a small cafe and restaurant on the ground floor of the gallery.
Practical Info
Art in Paradise is located on Changklan Road in the south of Chiang Mai, next to the Shangri La Hotel and just a few kilometers east of the Ping River.
Address: 199/9 Changklan Road, Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand 50200, Thailand
Hours: 9am-9pm
Admission: Adult: 300 baht / Child: 200 baht
From $ 16
Armenian Street
Armenian Street (or Lebuh Armenian) is a narrow street located within the Unesco World Heritage Site and Penang capital, George Town. Surrounded by Chinese temples and clan houses, the street itself is lined with old shophouses, art galleries, cafes, and some of the most fascinating street art on the island.
A stroll along Armenian Street reveals countless shops selling everything from furniture and antiques to crafts and other souvenirs. There’s also a choice of quaint little cafes in which to stop for a coffee and take a break from the daytime heat. In addition, you’ll see an abundance of street art adorning the buildings here, with the most famous, Kids on Bicycle by Ernest Zacharevic, featuring a bike affixed to the wall with two children riding it. This mural attracts huge attention from tourists taking turns to have their photograph taken with it.
If you’re visiting Armenian Street on a Saturday evening, you’ll stumble across the Armenian Street Fair, where you’ll find stalls selling local arts and crafts as well as various music and dance performances.
Armenian Street is part of the itinerary on a Penang George Town heritage tour, which also includes a visit to the impressive Kapitan Keling Mosque nearby, a trip to Pinang Peranakan Mansion, plus a tour around Little India.
Practical Info
While Armenian Street can easily be explored on foot, it is also possible to hire bicycles and trishaws from this area.
Did You Know? Armenian Street got its name from the Armenian merchants families who settled here in the early part of the 19th century. Nowadays, the street is more associated with George Town’s Chinese community, which explains all the temples and other Chinese-influenced architecture in the area.
Address: Armenian Street, George Town, Penang, Malaysia, Malaysia
From $ 10
Fort Aguada and Lighthouse
Perched on top of a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea, Fort Aguada and its lighthouse once guarded the Portuguese colony against Dutch and Marathas invaders. Built in 1612, the fort is the best preserved and most impressive of any in Goa.
While the large moat and 79 cannons once served to protect India’s Portuguese colonies, Fort Aguada, named after the freshwater springs within its walls, also replenished water supplies of passing ships. The four-story Fort Aguada Lighthouse, built in 1864, is the oldest lighthouse of its kind anywhere in Asia.
The fort sits just over 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) south of Sinquerim Beach, and much of the walk is uphill. Unless you plan to take a taxi or bus, get an early start to tour the fort before the sun beating down on the bare stones makes things too hot for comfort. The fort has few shaded areas, so bring plenty of sunscreen and water with you.
While the large moat and 79 cannons once served to protect India’s Portuguese colonies, Fort Aguada, named after the freshwater springs within its walls, also replenished water supplies of passing ships. The four-story Fort Aguada Lighthouse, built in 1864, is the oldest lighthouse of its kind anywhere in Asia.
The fort sits just over 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) south of Sinquerim Beach, and much of the walk is uphill. Unless you plan to take a taxi or bus, get an early start to tour the fort before the sun beating down on the bare stones makes things too hot for comfort. The fort has few shaded areas, so bring plenty of sunscreen and water with you.
Address: Candolim, Goa, India
From $ 30
Armenian Church
Armenian Church of Saint Gregory the Illuminator is the oldest Christian church in Singapore, completed in 1835 by an Irish civil architect key in the construction of the country’s overall infrastructure. A towering all-white structure, the church is adorned with numerous crafted pillars and features an entrance framed with classical pediments.
Aside from admiring the exterior façade, the church is surrounded by an open garden and at the back a peaceful cemetery that was never used as a burial ground. The tombs there were brought over from a site in Bukit Timah when it was exhumed. Even though the last regular services in the church halted in the 1930s, the interior still has alters and between them, a royal red carpet leading up to the nave.
Overall, the church is a standalone example of tranquility in busy Singapore. Every now and then the church is the site for art exhibitions, but other than that it is open for visitors to see.
Aside from admiring the exterior façade, the church is surrounded by an open garden and at the back a peaceful cemetery that was never used as a burial ground. The tombs there were brought over from a site in Bukit Timah when it was exhumed. Even though the last regular services in the church halted in the 1930s, the interior still has alters and between them, a royal red carpet leading up to the nave.
Overall, the church is a standalone example of tranquility in busy Singapore. Every now and then the church is the site for art exhibitions, but other than that it is open for visitors to see.
Address: Singapore
From $ 29
Fort Cornwallis
When Captain Francis Light landed on this spot in 1786 and took the island from the Sultan he built a wooden fort, Fort Cornwallis, to defend it against the French, Kedah and pirates during the Napoleonic Wars.
Rebuilt in 1808 using Indian convict labour it is the largest and most intact fort in Malaysia. Once protected by a great moat this was filled in after a malaria outbreak in the 1920s.
The famous great cannons guarding Fort Cornwallis date back as far as the 17th century.
Practical Info
On the edge of water on Jalan T. S. S. Barakbah (off Lebuh Light), Fort Cornwallis can easily be reached on foot from central Georgetown.
Grass Lawns and park areas nearby along the esplanade offer a popular spot to picnic and cool off with ice cream in the shade.
Address: Padang Kota Lama, Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, Penang 10200, Malaysia
From $ 10
Forbidden City (Imperial Palace)
The Forbidden City, or Imperial Palace, is the world’s largest palace complex, with more than 800 buildings and some 8,000 rooms set in the heart of Beijing. Deemed off-limits to visitors for some five centuries, today this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the city’s most popular attractions.
The Basics
With so much to see at this Beijing landmark—everything from the living quarters of emperors to ceremonial rooms and galleries lined with Imperial artifacts—many visitors opt to visit with a guide who can navigate the vast complex from the Ming and Qing dynasties and point out its most interesting features. Those short on time in the Chinese capital can opt for a day tour that combines a Forbidden City visit with time at other Beijing attractions, such as Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and the Great Wall. As well, number of gardens, museums, pagodas, and pavilions dot the area.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Choose between a standard entrance ticket and a city tour that includes access to the Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace.
- For a more personal experience of the Forbidden City and other Beijing highlights, choose a private tour.
- As many as 80,000 people visit the Forbidden City daily, so it’s best to book ahead or book a tour that includes skip-the-line access.
- The Forbidden City offers little shade, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water if visiting on a warm day.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a fair amount of walking.
How to Get There
Arriving by public transport or walking is preferred over taxi, as taxis are not allowed to stop nearby. Take the subway Line 1 to Tiananmen West or Tiananmen East, or catch one of the many buses going to Gugong.
When to Get There
To avoid crowds at this popular Beijing attraction, it’s best to visit first thing in the morning when the ticket office opens. Avoid weekends and Chinese national holidays.
Best View of the Forbidden City
Before or after touring the Forbidden City, it’s nice to get a sense of its size by seeing it from above. Jingshan Park, located just across from the palace’s north gate, is home to the highest point in Beijing and affords the best panoramic, bird’s-eye view of the Forbidden City.
Address: 4 Jingshan Front Street, Beijing, Northern China 100009, China
Hours: Apr - Oct: 8:30am - 5pm, Nov - March: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Admission: ¥40–60
From $ 9
Cu Chi Tunnels
Built by the Viet Cong in the 1940s as protection from French air raids during the Indochina conflict, the Cu Chi Tunnels extend underground for more than 155 miles (250 km) in the vicinity of Ho Chi Minh City alone. This network of subterranean passageways later provided vital access to and strategic control over the rural areas surrounding the city during the Vietnam War (also known as the Second Indochina War or the American War), when the tunnels housed living quarters, hospitals, booby traps, and storage facilities for the Viet Cong.
The Basics
A visit to what remains of the Cu Chi Tunnels offers a poignant reminder of the hardships of war. Today, two areas are open to visitors, both with tunnels that have been expanded in size. They’re still a tight fit, but that adds to the experience of discovering what it must have been like for the soldiers living and operating here. Many visitors come to the tunnels on a half- or full-day trip from Ho Chi Minh City, sometimes combined with a cruise along the Mekong Delta or Saigon River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This site is a must for history buffs.
- Touring the tunnels involves hunching over to walk underground. If you’re prone to claustrophobia, consider giving this one a pass.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for uneven surfaces.
- Don’t forget to bring insect repellent to fend off mosquitoes.
How to Get to the Cu Chi Tunnels
A guided private or small-group tour is the most hassle-free way to visit the tunnels, given the entrance’s distance from Ho Chi Minh City (about 30 miles, or 50 km). It’s possible to visit independently (though you’ll still need a tour guide to enter the tunnels) by taking bus 13 from BEN CV 23/9 bus station.
When to Get There
The main factor in determining when to visit the underground tunnels is the weather. The dry season (December to April) is the hottest time of year, with an average temperature of 82° F (28° C). With higher temperatures comes lower humidity and an escape from the usual stickiness of this tropical climate (and fewer bugs). Monsoon season (May to November) brings higher humidity and daily rains, but it’s also slightly cooler.
A Tale of Two Tunnels
There are two areas of the Cu Chi Tunnels available for tours. Most visit Ben Dinh, the more popular section. It’s often crowded, and the nearby shooting range is close, so it can be loud. The second site, Ben Duoc, is about 30 minutes further away from Ho Chi Minh City, but it also has the Ben Duoc Martyr’s Memorial Temple on its grounds, which is surrounded by quiet gardens.
Address: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Hours: Open daily 9am - 5pm
Admission: VND 75,000
From $ 9
Crystal Cove Island
The island of Boracay has stunning white beaches and perfectly turquoise water, but one thing missing is a rocky coast where you can scramble through a tunnel, emerge in a cave, and watch waves explode on the rocks. Luckily Crystal Cove Island next door has not one, but two different sea caves, where you walk down a staircase or crouch beneath rocks to hear the ocean as it thunders. This 6-acre, privately owned island off of Boracay is popular with Boracay island hopping tours, where in addition to touring the caves on shore, you also get the chance to snorkel and swim along the rocky coastline. The first cave is easily accessible, but the second requires crouching down and scrambling through a small tunnel, before eventually emerging in a massive cave with ledges for snapping a few photos.
You can also enjoy a picnic on the island if you choose to visit on your own, and eat your lunch with a panoramic view of five different islands offshore. There’s also a museum with seashell art and other locally made crafts, and a small restaurant with restrooms and drinks just steps from a white sand beach.
Practical Info
Crystal Cove Island is about 15-20 minutes by boat from Boracay. When traveling from Boracay to Crystal Cove Island, boats depart from Cagban port and Tambisaan port, which are both on the southern shore. While it’s possible to go to Crystal Cove directly, most people visit as part of an island-hopping excursion that tours the Boracay coastline.
Did You Know? There’s a small pond that’s filled with lotuses that open every day around 7am and close each day at 10am.
Address: Crystal Cove Island, Boracay, Philippines
Admission: About $4
From $ 26
Fort Aguada
Fort Aguada, the largest and best preserved of Goa’s Portuguese bastions, was constructed between 1609 and 1612 to protect Old Goa from Dutch enemies attacking via the Mandovi River. Set on a hill overlooking Aguada Bay and the Arabian Sea, the fort housed a freshwater spring that provided water to passing ships and gave the fort its name.
What remains of the sprawling fort remains largely intact, thanks in part to the fact that it was never taken by force during the four century rule of the Portuguese in Goa. Visitors can walk through the grounds to see the stone architecture, including the still-standing lighthouse. Thanks to its panoramic views, the fort is one of the most popular spots in the region to watch a sunset.
Practical Info
Fort Aguada is reachable via a 2.5-mile (4-kilometer), somewhat steep path starting and Sinquerim Beach. It’s also possible to take a taxi.
Address: Calangute Candolim Sinquerim Rd, Bardez, Goa, India 403515, India
From $ 35
Fort Margherita
Completed in 1879, the three-tiered, off-white tower that is Fort Margherita was commissioned by the most important man in all of Kuching: Charles Brooke, the second Rajah of Sarawak. Named after his wife, Ranne Margaret Alice Lili de Windt, the fortress was meant to guard the rapidly growing town of Kuching from an attack by fearsome river pirates. For an entire century, three generations of Brooke family members formed the “Brooke Dynasty” of Sarawak, native Englishmen who privately ruled as “White Rajahs” over what was once a vassal state of Brunei. During their 100-year rule the White Rajahs constructed many buildings in an architectural style akin to that of 19th century England, Fort Margherita being no exception.
Though the fort saw no major military action, executions of prisoners were carried out in the fortress courtyard up until the Japanese occupation of Sarawak during World War II. At one point a police museum occupied a portion of the fortress grounds, although it has been a number of years since the artifacts and displays were removed.
Though there isn’t much action that still takes place at Fort Margherita, it nonetheless is an important part of Kuching history and a monument to the heritage of Brooke Dynasty rule. To reach Fort Margherita visitors must pay a nominal fee to cross the Sarawak River by sampan boat and then continue down an unmarked footpath before reaching the fortress grounds. Though the fortress has recently fallen into disrepair, it’s still worth the journey simply to climb the spiral staircase of the watchtower for a panoramic view of one of the more curious territories in the history of modern Malaysia.
Though the fort saw no major military action, executions of prisoners were carried out in the fortress courtyard up until the Japanese occupation of Sarawak during World War II. At one point a police museum occupied a portion of the fortress grounds, although it has been a number of years since the artifacts and displays were removed.
Though there isn’t much action that still takes place at Fort Margherita, it nonetheless is an important part of Kuching history and a monument to the heritage of Brooke Dynasty rule. To reach Fort Margherita visitors must pay a nominal fee to cross the Sarawak River by sampan boat and then continue down an unmarked footpath before reaching the fortress grounds. Though the fortress has recently fallen into disrepair, it’s still worth the journey simply to climb the spiral staircase of the watchtower for a panoramic view of one of the more curious territories in the history of modern Malaysia.
Address: Malaysia
From $ 20
Fort San Pedro
The first Spanish settlements in the Philippines were in Cebu City, called the Queen City of the South. After Magellan first landed in Cebu, the Spanish under orders from Miguel Lopez de Legazpi erected Fort San Pedro on what is now Cebu's pier. The first, smallest and oldest fort in the Philippines was originally built as an army garrison to defend against Muslim pirates.
Since its construction, the fort has served as a revolutionary stronghold, American military barracks, a hospital, a school, a zoo and now a museum. Within the crumbling ruins of the fort, you'll find a collection of well-preserved artifacts, documents, paintings and sculptures from the Spanish colonial period, as well as a statue of Legazpi. The gardens within the fort's walls offer a peaceful retreat from often chaotic Cebu City.
With only a minuscule entrance fee, Fort San Pedro is a must for anyone interested in Filipino, Spanish or American military history. A diagram at the entrance gives a summary of the fort's history and shows just how much happened in this small corner of the Philippines.
Since its construction, the fort has served as a revolutionary stronghold, American military barracks, a hospital, a school, a zoo and now a museum. Within the crumbling ruins of the fort, you'll find a collection of well-preserved artifacts, documents, paintings and sculptures from the Spanish colonial period, as well as a statue of Legazpi. The gardens within the fort's walls offer a peaceful retreat from often chaotic Cebu City.
With only a minuscule entrance fee, Fort San Pedro is a must for anyone interested in Filipino, Spanish or American military history. A diagram at the entrance gives a summary of the fort's history and shows just how much happened in this small corner of the Philippines.
Address: Close to Plaza Independencia, Philippines
Hours: Everyday: 9am-5pm
Admission: Adults: P30, Seniors: P25, Child & Student: P20
From $ 38
Fort Cochin
Fort Cochin, aka Fort Kochi, is an historic district and a main draw for tourists in Cochin (Kochi). It’s a charming neighborhood full of colonial-era homes (many of which have been converted into boutique hotels), lovely old houses of worship, charming shops and markets, and the city's famous Chinese fishing nets that flank the harbor.
The Basics
Fort Cochin is a charming historic area on the western end of Cochin notable for its blend of local Malayali and colonial (Portuguese, Dutch, and British) architecture. Here you'll find most of Cochin's most interesting attractions, including St. Francis Church, the Santa Cruz Basilica, the Paradesi Synagogue, and Mattancherry Palace. There’s also a small beach; visit around sunset for a chance to see some of the city’s famous Chinese fishing nets in action. Book a private or group tour, some of which include a Kathakali dance performance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Fort Cochin is great for culture lovers, shopaholics, and anyone looking to take some gorgeous photos.
- Wear plenty of sunscreen and bring a hat, as the sun can get strong here.
- Fort Cochin is best explored on foot, so comfortable clothes and shoes are a must.
- While it’s expected that you bargain at craft stalls, it’s not appropriate at the area’s many high-end boutiques.
How to Get There
Fort Cochin sits on the northwestern part of Cochin, an historic area filled with attractions, including churches, old Dutch-style homes, and the city’s famous fishing nets. It’s west of the main city of Ernakulam on the mainland, and it takes around a half-hour by taxi to get to the fort, without traffic.
When to Get There
Fort Cochin is great throughout the year, though weather is a big consideration for many travelers. The monsoon season from around June through November can mean lots of flash rainfalls and high humidity, while March, April, and May can be unbearably hot. The driest, coolest time of year is during the winter (December through February), but this is also the most crowded season.
Cochin’s Jewish Community
Cochin has been home to a small Jewish community, possibly since as early as the time of King Solomon, though only a handful remain to this day. The old city is home to the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth, dating back to 1567, located in an historic area known as Jew Town, with numerous antique shops and even a restaurant serving traditional Cochin-Jewish cuisine.
Address: River Rd., India
Admission: Varies
From $ 45
Former Residence of Sun Yat-sen
Get a glimpse into the life of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, founder of the Chinese Republic and the Great Forerunner of the Chinese Democratic Revolution, at his former residence in Shanghai. See where he carried out a large number of revolutionary activities, wrote treatises, and met with members of the Communist Party from 1918 until 1924.
The Basics
The two-story Western-style house contains a number of original artifacts, and the rooms are arranged as they were when Dr. Sun Yat-sen lived here. Walk around and see his personal belongings, original furnishings, books, paintings, photographs, and other memorabilia, including a map hand-drawn by Dr. Sun Yat-sen himself. Don’t miss the house’s lovely garden. Finish up at the museum next door, featuring over 300 items, including manuscripts, historical documents, and audiovisual exhibits on Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s life and the revolution.
A number of sightseeing tours feature a stop at the residence. Depending on the option chosen, tours also include other attractions around the former French Concession; important historical sites, such the former residences of Mao Zedong and Zhou Enlai; or top attractions such as the Bund and Xintiandi.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The admission fee covers both the former residence and the museum next door.
- Photos are not allowed in the residence.
- Audio guides are available for rent.
- Visitors will need to put on disposable covers for their shoes when visiting the former residence.
- A lot of the exhibits are only in Chinese.
How to Get There
The Former Residence of Dr. Sun Yat-sen is located in the French Concession, near Fuxing Park. By metro, take line 13 to Middle Huaihai Road Station (exit 1) and walk south for about five minutes, or take line 10 to Xintiandi (exit 6) and walk west about 10 minutes. A number of buses also stop nearby, including buses 24, 36, 42, 301, 780, 932, and 986.
When to Get There
The Former Residence of Dr. Sun Yat-sen and museum do not usually get that crowded, so they make a good alternative when other attractions in Shanghai are busy. Commemoration activities are held and flowers are presented on the anniversaries of Dr. Sun Yat-sen's birth (November 12) and his death (March 12).
Other Tributes to Dr. Sun Yat-sen
In addition to the former residence and museum in Shanghai, there are a number of museums and memorials to Dr. Sun Yat-sen around the world. Most notable are the Dr. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum in Nanjing, the National Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall in Taipei, and the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall in Guangzhou. Museums and memorials dedicated to Dr. Sun Yat-sen can also be found in other cities, such as Hong Kong, Macau, Penang, Chicago, and San Francisco.
Address: 7 Xiangshan Road, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 49
Crocodile Island
Don’t worry—there aren’t any crocodiles cruising the waters at this popular Boracay island. Instead you’ll find schools of colorful fish and vibrant, healthy corals, that make this one of the best places to go snorkeling and swimming in Boracay. The waters here can be crystal clear—particularly in the peak season—and it’s a happening stop on island hopping tours that explore the Boracay coast.
It isn’t just snorkelers who flock here, however, as Crocodile Island is also one of the best spots to go scuba diving in Boracay. The wall here begins at 15 feet and it’s a relatively shallow dive, which makes it a good spot for intro divers or those who have just become certified. Watch as schools of silvery fish go flitting in front of your face, and corals waves in the gentle currents and spring up out of the reef. There’s even the chance of spotting a turtle at it lazily swims on by, before climbing aboard your Boracay boat and exploring the rest of the coast.
Practical Info
Crocodile Island is off the southern tip of Boracay and accessed by a 15-minute boat ride. The best time of year for snorkeling and diving is usually from October-May, when the seas are calm and there’s good visibility because of the lack of runoff.
Did You Know? The island got its nickname because the head of the island looks just like the head of a crocodile.
Address: Crocodile Island, Boracay, Philippines
From $ 26
Fort Santiago
One of the most important sites for Philippine history in Manila, Fort Santiago was built by the Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi as a defensive fortress designed to protect the newly formed city. The fort is a key feature of the famous walled city known as Intramuros — a complex of manicured gardens, fountains, lily ponds, and sunny plazas, as well as the Rizal Shrine museum, located in the building where Dr. Jose Rizal (a Philippines national hero) was incarcerated during the late 19th century.
The Basics
When to Get There
Discovering Fort Santiago's Dark History
The 16th-century Fort Santiago is an ideal place for a quiet picnic or a scenic walk. The site's extensive military history and impressive architecture make it an absolute must for visitors to Manila, so a visit is typically included in half- and full-day city tours. These tours often also include visits to other historical sites, such as the American Cemetery and Memorial, Fort Bonifacio, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed San Agustin Church, Casa Manila, and sometimes a cruise on Manila Bay.
How to Get to Fort Santiago
- Fort Santiago is a must for history buffs in Manila.
- Don't forget your camera; there are plenty of photo ops inside the fort.
- Families with kids can utilize the small playground found within the fort.
- There's plenty of shade in the fort, but be sure to bring water, sunblock, and insect repellent on warm days.
Fort Santiago is located on Santa Clara Street along the Pasig River near Rizal Park. The easiest and most convenient way to visit the fort is on a guided tour of Old Manila, but it's also possible to go on your own via public transportation. If you're riding the LRT, get off at Central Station and make the short walk to the fort entrance, or get off at Carriedo Station and ride a jeepney toward Mabini. The driver can let you off near the gate.
When to Get There
Fort Santiago is open daily from 8am to 6pm, but many travelers choose to visit in the morning when the weather is still relatively cool, ending the visit with a shaded picnic lunch. The Rizal Shrine within the fort has limited hours on Mondays.
Discovering Fort Santiago's Dark History
While Fort Santiago is today a quiet escape for the people of Manila, its past was more tumultuous. During World War II, the site's Spanish colonial era military barracks held hundreds of Filipino and American POWs. Visitors can also see a dungeon cellblock where Rizal spent his last night, as well as a set of brass footprints in the pavement marking his last steps to the spot where he was executed.
Address: Santa Clara St, Manila, Philippines
Hours: Open daily 8am-6pm
Admission: Adults: 65 PHP; Children: 50 PHP
From $ 22
Cu Chi Wildlife Rescue Station
Established in 2006, the Cu Chi Wildlife Rescue Station rescues animals from the illegal animal trade in Ho Chi Minh City and the surrounding region in Vietnam. These animals, including gibbon, langur, bears, loris, wildcats, and some rare endangered species, are rehabilitated and returned to the wild. Other species benefiting from these rescue efforts include pangolin, cobras, turtles, and numerous types of birds.
Visitors to the rescue station can head to the multimedia display center to learn about the illegal wildlife trade, hunting, and the efforts being made to protect Vietnam's natural biodiversity. Travelers can also observe some of the animals currently in recovery or rehabilitation from a safe distance. A visit to the center is often combined with a trip to the nearby Cu Chi Tunnels.
Practical Info
A visit to the Cu Chi Wildlife Rescue Station must be arranged in advnace, as the staff prioritizes animal care. If you'd like to arrange a visit independently, get in touch with the Ho Chi Minh City Forest Protection Department (FPD).
Address: No. 50, Road No. 15, Ho Chi Minh City, Southern Vietnam 70000, Vietnam
Hours: Daily 7:30–11:30am & 1–4:30pm
Admission: $5 USD
From $ 49
Forbidden Purple City
This royal structure, which sits at the center of Hue’s Imperial Enclosure, was once reserved for exclusive use by the emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty. Only eunuchs passed through its halls, since even his most trusted servants weren’t allowed beyond the gates. Today, this historic citadel sits mostly in ruins, destroyed during several wars throughout the nation’s history. Despite some recent rebuilding efforts, travelers can easily spend a long afternoon wandering paths that crisscross the grounds, exploring portions of the foundation, now overgrown with foliage, and examining the painting, woodwork and architecture that still remains. A 10 kilometer moat surrounds what was created to resemble the Forbidden City of Beijing, and 10 gates protect these once royal grounds.
Practical Info:
Be sure to catch one of the eight performances of traditional nha nhac dance at the nearby Hue Monuments Conservation Center from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily.
Address: Vietnam
From $ 25
Fort Canning Park
Fort Canning Park spans 18 hectares of forested greenspace in the midst of Singapore’s business district—more than just towering Kapok and Madras Thorn trees, trails and a popular community event space, though, it is also a historical landmark. The park’s iconic raised hill once provided a desirable vantage for 14th‐ century fortresses of Malay kings and may have served as an important trading hub. Ongoing archaeological excavations continue to unravel stories of its past.
During WWII, Battle Box, an underground bunker and command center within the present‐day park, was the site of Singapore’s decision to surrender to the Japanese. Today the bunker with Japanese Morse code on its walls welcomes tourists as a museum detailing events of the Battle of Singapore. Also on the park’s grounds are impressive gothic gates; a spice garden with cloves and nutmeg—remnants from the city’s first botanical garden; the new Fort Canning Arts Center, the first Asian offshoot of popular Paris museum Pinacothèque de Paris, featuring rotating exhibits and standard collections of classical works by artists, such as Monet and Rembrandt, rarely seen in Southeast Asia; the former British Command Far East Headquarters, now the five‐star Hotel Fort Canning; and a sculpture garden.
Practical Info
The park does not keep regular hours, but some of the attractions like the Battle Box Museum (9 a.m. til 4:30 p.m.) and the art museum (10 a.m. til 7:30 p.m. or 8:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays) do—admission also required. The park is on the MRT and a short walk from both the Clarke Quay and Dhoby Ghaut stops. Regular outdoor shows and festivals run from early spring through summer and include Shakespeare in the Park, Ballet Under the Stars and Films at the Fort.
Address: River Valley Road, Singapore
Admission: Admission required for museums
From $ 24
Arignar Anna Zoological Park
Established in 1885, the Arignar Anna Zoological Park (often referred to as Vandalur Zoo) is the oldest public zoo in India. It’s been transformed and relocated over the years, and today the zoo can be found in Vandalu, just over 30 kilometers from Chennai. It’s home to hundreds of species of wild animals, many of which are considered endangered, and serves as a wildlife sanctuary and center for rehabilitating rescued animals.
The Arignar Anna Zoological Park is a large and well-maintained space with plenty of plant and wildlife out in the open. Visitors can tour the expansive grounds on bicycles or by using one of the zoo’s electric vehicles to zip around. Most of the main attractions are located along the park’s inner pathways, where the large animals such as tigers, panthers, and elephants live. There are a whole host of other mammals, reptiles, birdlife, fish, and butterflies to visit throughout the rest of the park too.
Practical Info
The Arignar Anna Zoological Park is open from 9am until 5pm and can be easily reached from Chennai city center by bus; visitors should alight at the Vandalur Zoo bus stop. Vandalur railway station also sits just one kilometer from the zoo.
Address: Vandalur, Near Crescent Auditorium, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India 600048, India
Hours: Open daily 9am-5pm
From $ 8