Malaysia is a melting pot of races and religion, separated by the South China Sea, creating a country of diverse landscapes and culture. Malaysia has beautiful beaches, peaceful rainforests, exotic national parks, and bustling modern cities. Relax on a white sand beach, trek through the rainforest, or explore the capital of Kuala Lumpur. Of course you can’t forget about the Malay cuisine, a highlight for any traveler visiting this colorful country. Here a few travel tips and suggestions to consider when planning a trip to Malaysia.

Thailand, with it’s beautiful weather, relaxing atmosphere, friendly local people, and delicious cuisine make it an ideal travel destination. A trip to Thailand can include exploring the bustling city of Bangkok, trekking to remote hill tribe villages, relaxing on the beaches of Southern Thailand and visiting incredible historical sites. As some of the islands and beaches have become quite crowded, some travelers seek to explore a more off the beaten path destination in Thailand. Below you’ll find a few of our favorite unique Thailand adventures.

Lisu Lodge

If you’re looking for an off the beaten path adventure that allows you to experience rural Thai life then Lisu Lodge is the place for you! The lodge is named after the hill tribe village of Lisu, which is situated nearby the eco lodge in Chiang Mai. As part of a community-based project Lisu Lodge has initiatives in place to help conserve the natural heritage of hill tribes of Northern Thailand.

The Lisu hill tribe migrated from Southern China and Tibet in the early 20th century. During your stay at Lisu you can enjoy a guided tour through the village visiting local families, perhaps be invited into someone’s home for a cup of local tea, and meet with a local shaman. You should also visit the cultural center and museum, created by the villagers, to showcase the culture and lifestyle of the Lisu and Akha mountain tribes.

Lisu Lodge overlooks the lush fields and hills surrounding the valley, and offers and a blend of adventure, relaxation, and unique culture. Other activities offered including cycling, white water rafting, and trekking.

Spend New Year's this year on an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Instead of heading to the crowds in New York or Tahoe, try something different and spend this New Year’s Eve enjoying the fireworks from a cruise ship, hiking the peaks of Mt. Kilimanjaro, or exploring the vast deserts of Egypt. Whatever ecotourism adventure you choose, the following New Year's trips are sure to create an unforgettable start to 2012.

With the cost of lift tickets rising each year at popular North America ski resorts and crowds continuing to grow, a ski or snowboard vacation can include its fair share of headaches. Look off the beaten path for some unique ski resorts and take advantage of fewer crowds in these quaint mountain towns.

Staying in a Japanese ryokan is a highlight for a lot of travelers on Japan tours. It can be daunting to some, as it is a very traditional experience leaving many non-Japanese confused by the customs common at a ryokan. This guide will give travelers some information on what to expect when staying at a ryokan and tips on how to best enjoy the experience.