The Asian culture has been seeping into countries all over the world thanks to the mass emigration of past centuries. But, while you might think the noodles in your local Asian restaurant are second to none or that your weekly Tai Chi class helps to keep you in touch with the Orient, there's nothing quite like the real thing. Think of all the different ways in which this fascinating culture manifests itself throughout the world and imagine the lands where it originated. Now picture yourself right in the middle of all of that and it is rather easy to see why this continent holds such allure for outsiders.
Traveling to Asia can be a daunting experience, especially for first-time travelers. Youth hostels in Asia are ideal places to meet other travelers who are interested in exploring Asia's sights on a shoestring budget.
It's important to ask other travelers you meet along the way where they are staying or planning to stay. Most backpackers do not get advance reservations (unless its in a very busy city, such as Hong Kong or Rome), but rather play it by ear. It makes for a wonderful adventure!
Below, a guest house, Hotel Yoschi, in Probolingo, Indonesia, site of the unparalleled volcano of Mt. Bromo.
