Hong Kong
A great stopover on the journey to Australia, Hong Kong is the shopping capital of the Far East and has many worthwhile sights to see. On a 2-3 night stop-over you will have time to visit the city including taking a trip up to Victoria Peak for stunning views of the harbour and visit one of the many attractions such as Disneyland, Ocean Park or the newer Ngong Ping. Ocean Park is situated by the harbour and features Giant Pandas, a dophinarium, a film simulator ride and ‘Middle Kingdom’, an area of 10,000 square metres where you can watch the history of China unfold before you.
On a warm Hong Kong evening there is nothing better than watching the spectacular ‘Symphony of Lights’ laser show on the harbour from a ship on the water.
Singapore
Singapore is the most popular stopover destination for tours heading to Australia or New Zealand. The hockey centre is fantastic and we can usually secure fixtures against the National teams for you.
Singapore is very busy and very hot and when the traffic and heat get too much you can escape to Sentosa Island – just across a bridge from the city. Here you can stroll along promenades, visit the famous Merlion, take luge rides, cable cars, visit the butterfly sanctuary, hold giant snakes and swim in the sea at man-made beaches.
Sightseeing in and around Singapore includes Changi Prison and Secret wartime tunnels, High Tea at Raffles followd by a Rickshaw ride through Chinatown or a relaxing bumboat cruise.
Malaysia
Malaysia has perfect weather all year round and is an ideal place not only for a stopover but also for a 2 week tour at any time of year. The exciting mixtures of jungle highlands, white sandy beaches and vibrant cities make for a varied and interesting tour.
We would recommend a twin-centre tour of Kuala Lumpur and Penang for fixtures and a stay at the beach at the end of your tour or a journey from Singapore via KL ending in Penang or Langkawi.
Things to do include visits to tea plantations, jungle treks, street markets, visits to temples and buddhas, and various wildlife centres such as the butterfly park.
Japan
Being in the same hemisphere as us in the UK, Japan is best to visit in September, December or April for a sports tour.
For history or cultural tours, however, any time of year is fine and the cherry blossoms in spring are spectacular.
Japan is a land of amazing contrasts: from the fast-paced and thriving Tokyo to the ancient cities of Kyoto and Osaka. There are hot springs (that the monkeys also enjoy), you can stay in a traditional Ryokan, see magnificent Mount Fuji and visit ancient temples and beautiful forests.
In Tokyo you might like to visit the Sumo Museum, Disneyland, the Meji Shrine and also shop for electronics!
Japan can be expensive, especially in Tokyo, but a variety of rail passes on offer and accommodation in traditional Ryokan style hostels can make it an affordable destination.
