Asia. Our planet's largest continent. Almost one third of the earth's land area, and home to over four billion people. For the traveller from Europe, its vast scale, its vibrant contrasts of scenery and tradition and its array of cultures and lifestyles seem infinite. Everywhere the ancient enigmas of the exotic traditions of the Orient live on in a thousand unexpected ways - while the driving pulse of 21st century technology and commerce contributes a dynamic contemporary resonance of its own.

For the holiday visitor Asia's horizons are mind-boggling. There's a wealth of cosmopolitan modern cities, with world-class shopping and entertainment on the one hand, or traditional street markets, bazaars and food-stalls on the other.

If luxury beach resorts or exclusive tropical island hideaways are more your kind of thing then here, too, the options are virtually inexhaustible. You prefer mountains and rainforests, deserts and forts, temples and palaces, or wildlife and adventure sports? Asia has them all - in abundance and in countless variations. There will simply not be enough hours in a day - or night - to see and do everything.

Golden Days in Asia's portfolio is a carefully researched and selected collection of some of Asia's very best holiday ideas and opportunities - spanning cities and resorts, hotels and retreats, historic sites, stunning scenery and special interest activities.