Traveling to another country is always something to look forward to, but it becomes even more exciting when you have your favorite person along with you. Just think of all the authentic restaurants you can enjoy, the unique activities you can experience, and the special moments you can share.
For your first international couple trip, you can’t go wrong with these neighboring Asian destinations:
From matching couple outfits to holidays celebrating being in a relationship, South Korea is a country that thrives in couple culture. You and your S.O. will feel like you’re living the K-drama dream. The best times to go are in March and April for cherry blossom season and from October to November for the fall foliage.
The cool weather is perfect for cozying up at the many IG-worthy cafes, walking hand in hand in Nami Island, and warming up with shots of soju while feasting on BBQ. You might even want to dress up in traditional Korean costumes for photo ops at Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village or conquer your fears at amusement parks like Lotte World and Everland. Don’t forget to leave a padlock with a sweet message at N Seoul Tower to cement your love for each other!
A short two-hour flight from Manila, Taiwan makes for an easy escape. Time your visit to the magical Pingxi Lantern Festival in February, where you can watch thousands of candlelit lanterns fill the night sky. At Shifen Old Street, the two of you can write your wishes and dreams on a lantern before allowing it to soar into the sky.
Foodie couples shouldn’t miss Taipei’s night markets (Shilin and Raohe are two famous ones) for foods like fried chicken chop, oyster omelet, and minced pork rice. Down it all with cups of that famous Taiwanese import—bubble tea! End your visit at one of Beitou’s private hot springs, where you can unwind and soak in the bubbling baths before flying back home.
Japan has so much to offer in terms of food, nature, history, pop culture, shopping, and more. Gastronomic experiences are vital to any Japan itinerary, including multi-course meals at kaiseki restaurants, food tours in bustling markets, and late-night ramen runs at hidden spots.
You and your S.O. can take lots of couple photos at different iconic locations—think Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkaku-Ji Temple, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto; and Senso-Ji Temple, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo.
If you're an artsy pair, add TeamLab’s unique art exhibitions to your Tokyo list; or explore the hipster scene at Shimokitazawa in Tokyo and Nakazakicho in Osaka. Japan is wonderful during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
Bangkok is a fun city break for couples that enjoy food and culture. Immerse yourself in the beauty and splendor of the Grand Palace, view the giant Reclining Buddha in Wat Pho, and admire the spires of Wat Arun through a river cruise. If you and your S.O. enjoy shopping together, try haggling at Chatuchak Market and Patpong Night Market, or spend hours at sprawling malls like Central World and Icon Siam.
For couples who like going on food trips, indulge in delicious yet budget-friendly pad thai, tom yum and mango sticky rice. Of course, no visit to Bangkok is complete without an authentic Thai massage, which you and your partner will no doubt enjoy after hours of walking and exploring. Like the Philippines, Thailand is generally warm year-round, but you might want to avoid July to October if you don’t want heavy rains to ruin your plans.
Nearby Hong Kong is a popular destination for Filipinos—and it’s for a good reason! Shopping is easily one of the region’s biggest draws, so shopaholic couples are in for a treat. Trek to Citygate Outlets in Tung Chung for designer brands at marked down prices, visit Fa Yuen Street in Mongkok for its wide selection of sneakers and escape the heat while you shop at high-end malls.
If you want to take photos together at IG-worthy spots, don’t miss the street art in Sheung Wan, the colorful pastel buildings at Choi Hung Estate, and the rickety bridge at Sai Wan Swimming Shed. You won’t ever go hungry here, too—think Peking duck, wonton noodles, dim sum, and dessert soups and puddings. It is best to shop in Hong Kong during the sale season from June to August. Otherwise, it’s more pleasant to travel in the winter, from December to February.
Excited for your trip? Make sure it's worry-free! Get yourself and your S.O. covered with travel insurance. It protects you from unwanted situations that may arise during your trip.
AXA Smart Traveller Insurance offers extensive benefits like 24/7 emergency travel assistance, comprehensive medical cover, refunds for pre-booked travel expenses, protection on damaged or lost baggage, and personal accident compensation. Avail yours before the trip and be ready for take-off!
For more information, visit the AXA official website, Facebook, and Instagram.