Asia is a continent of diverse cultures, traditions, and landscapes, from the bustling cities of Tokyo and Bangkok to the pristine beaches of Bali and Phuket. With so much to see and do, exploring Asia can be an overwhelming experience, but the right travel apps can make all the difference. In this article, we will explore the top travel apps for exploring Asia, from planning your itinerary to finding the best food and drink spots, staying safe, navigating local transportation, discovering hidden gems, and obtaining your eVisa.
Planning Your Trip
Planning a trip to Asia can be a daunting task, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the region. Fortunately, there are several travel apps that can help you plan your itinerary and make the most of your time in Asia.
1. TripIt
TripIt is a popular travel planning app that allows you to organize all of your travel plans in one place. Simply forward your flight, hotel, and rental car confirmations to the app, and it will create a detailed itinerary for you. TripIt also provides real-time flight alerts and information on delays and cancellations, making it easy to adjust your plans on the go.
2. Traveloka
Traveloka is an all-in-one travel app that allows you to book flights, hotels, and activities in Asia. With Traveloka, you can compare prices from different airlines and hotels, find the best deals, and make reservations in just a few clicks. The app also provides real-time flight alerts and information on delays and cancellations.
3. Klook
Klook is a travel booking app that offers a wide range of activities and tours in Asia. With Klook, you can book everything from city tours and theme park tickets to spa treatments and adventure activities. The app also provides reviews from other travelers, making it easy to find the best activities for your interests.
4. eVisa Asia
eVisa Asia is a travel app that allows you to obtain your electronic visa for several countries in Asia, including Cambodia, India, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. With eVisa Asia, you can apply for your visa online, track your application status, and receive your visa via email. The app also provides information on visa requirements and fees.
Getting Around
Getting around in Asia can be a challenge, especially if you’re not familiar with the local transportation options. Fortunately, there are several travel apps that can help you navigate Asia’s cities and countryside.
1. Grab
Grab is a popular ride-sharing app that is available in many Asian countries, including Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam. With Grab, you can quickly and easily hail a ride, pay with your phone, and rate your driver. Grab also provides information on fares and estimated arrival times, making it easy to plan your travels.
2. Google Maps
Google Maps is a free navigation app that can help you find your way around Asia’s cities and countryside. With Google Maps, you can get turn-by-turn directions, check real-time traffic conditions, and find nearby restaurants, cafes, and attractions. The app also allows you to download offline maps, making it easy to navigate even without an internet connection.
3. MetroMan
MetroMan is a public transport app that provides real-time information on trains, buses, and subways in Asia’s major cities. With MetroMan, you can plan your journey, check schedules and timetables, and receive alerts on delays and cancellations. MetroMan is available in cities such as Tokyo, Seoul, Taipei, and Bangkok.
Finding Food and Drink
Asia is known for its vibrant food and drink scene, with everything from street food and fine dining to exotic cocktails and craft beer. To make the most of your culinary adventures in Asia, be sure to check out these travel apps.
1. OpenRice
OpenRice is a popular food and drink app that provides information on restaurants, cafes, and bars in Asia’s major cities. With OpenRice, you can search for restaurants by cuisine, location, and price range, read reviews from other diners, and make reservations. OpenRice is available in cities such as Hong Kong, Taipei, and Tokyo.
2. Zomato
Zomato is another popular food and drink app that provides information on restaurants, cafes, and bars in Asia’s major cities. With Zomato, you can search for restaurants by cuisine, location, and price range, read reviews from other diners, and make reservations. Zomato is available in cities such as Bangkok, Jakarta, and Delhi.
3. Eatigo
Eatigo is a restaurant reservation app that allows you to book a table at some of the best restaurants in Asia. With Eatigo, you can search for restaurants by cuisine, location, and price range, and enjoy discounts of up to 50% off your bill. Eatigo is available in cities such as Singapore, Bangkok, andManila.
Staying Safe
Staying safe is a top priority when traveling, especially in unfamiliar environments. These travel apps can help you stay safe and informed during your travels in Asia.
1. Smart Traveler
Smart Traveler is a travel safety app that provides up-to-date information on safety and security conditions in countries around the world, including Asia. With Smart Traveler, you can receive travel alerts and warnings, register your trip with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, and access emergency assistance.
2. SafeAround
SafeAround is a safety rating app that provides information on safety and security conditions in cities around the world, including in Asia. With SafeAround, you can find safety ratings for different aspects of the city, such as transportation, nightlife, and women’s safety, and read reviews from other travelers.
3. First Aid by American Red Cross
First Aid by American Red Cross is a first aid app that provides step-by-step instructions for responding to common first aid emergencies, including those that may occur during travel in Asia. With First Aid, you can learn how to respond to a variety of medical emergencies, from minor cuts and burns to more serious conditions like heart attacks and strokes.
In conclusion, these travel apps can help you make the most of your travels in Asia, from planning your itinerary to finding the best food and drink spots, staying safe, navigating local transportation, discovering hidden gems, and obtaining your eVisa. With the right apps, exploring Asia can be a truly unforgettable experience.
