Soft landing. English signs. Forgiving.
Your first international trip shouldn't be Mumbai. Start here — cities that speak some English, are safe, and have well-developed budget infrastructure.
Thailand's chaotic, neon-soaked capital. Pad thai from street stalls, BTS skytrain, Wat Pho temples, and rooftop bars overlooking the Chao Phraya. The world's m
Indonesia's spiritual island. Ubud yoga retreats, Canggu surf, Uluwatu cliffs, terraced rice fields. Hindu culture in Muslim Indonesia. Best for: yoga, surf, di
Malaysia's modern capital. Petronas Towers, Jalan Alor food street, multicultural KLCC. Cheaper, calmer Singapore. Best for: food (Malay/Chinese/Indian), shoppi
South Korea's hyper-modern capital. Han River, palaces beside skyscrapers, 24/7 cafes, BBQ until 4am. K-pop, K-drama, K-everything. Best for: nightlife, food, b
Japan's neon-lit megacity. Shibuya crossing, Tsukiji sushi, Akihabara electronics, Shinjuku robots. 14 million people, zero garbage on the street. Best for: foo
Asia's cleanest city-state. Marina Bay Sands, hawker centers (Michelin-starred chicken rice $4), strict fines, lush gardens. Best for: family-friendly, food, tr
Germany's punk-historical capital. Brandenburg Gate, East Side Gallery, Berghain techno, currywurst at 3am. Best for: nightlife, history, alternative culture.
Netherlands' canal capital. Bikes everywhere, Van Gogh and Anne Frank, brown cafes, coffeeshops. Best for: cycling, museums, canal walks.
France's eternal capital. Eiffel Tower, Louvre, croissants, terrace cafes. Best for: art, romance, fashion, food, walking.
Britain's multicultural megacity. Big Ben, Tate Modern, curry on Brick Lane, pubs everywhere. Best for: theatre, museums (free), Premier League.
Northern Thailand's digital nomad capital. Old city moat, Buddhist temples, mountain treks, $1 khao soi. Cooler than Bangkok, far cheaper than Phuket. Best for:
Ireland's literary pub capital. Trinity College + Book of Kells, Temple Bar (touristy), Guinness Storehouse, lively pub culture. Best for: pubs, James Joyce, Ir