Asia

A blend of old and new as faith and centuries of history rub shoulders with the computer age.

Be confronted by the bewildering chaos of Asian city life where you'll find hushed temples sparkling gold and crimson and streets packed with people, screeching motor bikes and stalls steaming aromas. Wake up to the smell of rice cooking in the morning and the haunting sound of chiming bells. Out of the cities is a contrast of stepped rice fields, jungle wrapped hills, shark tooth peaks and endless expanses of moonscape plains, wild deserts and sugar sand beaches.

Life lessons in Asia

An expedition to Asia offers participants the chance to experience a way of life and surrounding which contrats greatly to their own. From visiting rural, remote or poor communities participants will become aware of the differences between their hosts' needs nd priorities and those which drive their own lives. While the culture may at times seem very different, and some locations very remote, Asia is relatively easy to travel making it a comfortable yet rewarding expedition destination.

Physical rating - Asia

An expedition to Asia is as taxing as you choose to make it. All teams should be able to complete the Kinabalu challenge but some trails in the Himalayas will be extremely testing and will need a higher level of group fitness - this mountain range is home to Everest after all! If the group choose a jungle trek the humid conditions will be tiring but the captivating wildlife, plant-life and team spirit will keep everyone going.

Culture shock rating - Asia

Prepare for you and your group to be utterly baffled (and charmed) by a way of life completely different to that in the UK. You will be immediately struck by the business, noise and crowded conditions of Asia's cities - away from these the vast expanses of nothingness will be equally staggering. Life in some parts has kept the charm of centuries of unspoilt ancient customs and traditions. Participants should expect to come into contact with distinct contrasts of riches and poverty which they may find challenging. Asia was the birthplace of most of the world's mainstream religions including Hinduism, Judaism, Buddism, Sikhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Christianity and Islam as well as many others. Religious influence is everywhere to be seen in the form of lavish temples, monuments, art and tradition. Transport may well be unreliable and accommodation often basic.

Click on a country:

• Borneo
• India
• Cambodia
• China
• Laos
• Mongolia
• Nepal
• Vietnam
• Thailand