Asia

Welcome to my Asia resource section where I provide recommendations for all travellers, whether you are planning to visit or just exploring from home. Discover iconic landmarks like The Great Wall of China, the majestic Angkor Wat in Cambodia, and the enchanting Taj Mahal in India. Delve into these incredible destinations to enrich your experience and prepare for your journey throughout Asia.​

south Asia

• India
• Nepal
• Bhutan

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Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark.

A Short History of The Partition of India.
In 1947, the British divided up its former colony of India into two provinces. What followed was confusion, chaos, and an unprecedented wave of sectarian violence that left up to a million dead. 15 million more were forced to flee their homes. So why was the country broken up? What prompted the ferocious backlash? And how do the events of 75 years ago still haunt the region, its residents and the diaspora?

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​"The Snow Leopard" by Peter Matthiessen:
   A mesmerising memoir of the author's quest through the rugged terrains of the Himalayas in search of the elusive snow leopard. As Matthiessen confronts the inner and outer challenges of his spiritual exploration, you are taken on a journey that captures the spiritual essence of Nepal.
 
"Into Thin Air" by Jon Krakauer:
   Join Jon Krakauer in this firsthand account of the disastrous 1996 Mount Everest expedition. This autobiography portrays the exhilaration, struggle, and tragedy of climbing the world's highest peak. Krakauer's vivid storytelling will leave you with a profound understanding of the allure and dangers of the Himalayan mountains.
 
"Kathmandu" by Thomas Bell:
   Immerse yourself in the bustling streets of Kathmandu through this beautifully written narrative. It  awakens your senses to the sights, sounds, and smells of Nepal's vibrant capital city, as Bell explores its history, religion, and the people who call it home. From ancient palaces to hidden alleyways, this  book unveils the soul of Kathmandu.

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"Sherpa" (Film, 2015):
   This documentary takes you behind the scenes of the Sherpa community, whose dedication and expertise support mountaineering expeditions in the Himalayas. You gain a profound appreciation for the Sherpa culture and their enduring relationship with the world's highest peaks.
 
"Himalaya (Caravan)" (Film, 1999):
This film was one of the first Nepali films to earn an Academy Award nomination. Located in the pristine expanse of the Dolpo region, it depicts the fascinating annual expedition undertaken by a community residing in Nepal's rain shadow region, as they journey with a caravan of yaks to barter salt for grain.
 
"Himalaya with Michael Palin" (TV Show):
  British comedian and travel enthusiast, Michael Palin,  embarks on an epic journey across the entire Himalayan region, including Nepal. It's an engaging travelogue that offers a unique blend of humour, stunning visuals, and rich cultural insights, and who doesn't love Michael Palin?

"Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa" (Netflix, 2024)
"Mountain Queen" offers a compelling look at Lhakpa Sherpa, the first Nepali woman to summit Everest. The documentary showcases her resilience, courage, and the cultural impact of her achievements, while also delving into themes of verbal and mental abuse.

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 "The Absurdity of Kathmandu":
   A podcast that uncovers the quirks and contradictions of life in Kathmandu, as experienced by the host, and introduces you to fascinating stories, traditions, and the magical chaos that defines the city.
 
"Trekker's Paradise: Exploring Nepal's Trails":
   You join the host on a virtual trekking adventure through Nepal's most popular trails and hidden gems. This podcast showcases the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, shares practical tips, and offers personal accounts from fellow trekkers.
 
"Soul of the Himalayas":
   Dive into the spiritual realm of Nepal. This podcast explores the ancient philosophies, mystical traditions, and profound wisdom of the Himalayan region. Learn about meditation, yoga, and the transformative power of spiritual practices.

Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark.
​A Short History Of the Conquest of Everest.
Standing over 29,000ft above sea level, the peak of Everest is the highest point on the planet. To the sherpa people of the Himalyas it is sacred, and to foreign
adventurers it is the holy grail of climbing. But what did it take to reach the summit? Was it expertise and endurance—or simply better equipment? What was sacrificed to plant a flag on top of the world?

Central Asia

• The "Stans"  (Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan) 
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Beyond the Oxus (Land Beyond the River) by Monica Whitlock (2003)
An excellent book to introduce you to Tajikistan's turbulent last 100 years written around 3 generations of a single family.

Red Sands by Caroline Eden
In a quest to better understand the vast heartland of Asia, Caroline navigates a course from the shores of the Caspian Sea to the sun-ripened orchards of the Fergana Valley. A mix of food, travel and reportage.

The Silent Steppe by Mukhamet Shayakhmetov.
Documents the tragic story of the Kazakh nomads of central Asia under Stalin's regime and gives a heart breaking account of the famine, discrimination, and suffering of the 1930s.

The Zahir by Paulo Coelho (2005)
By the award winning author of the Alchemist, this book follows it's narrator on a search for his wife, who left him without explanation, from France to Central Asia.

Central Asia in World History by Peter B Golden (2011) A concise look at the history of the region, from prehistory to modern day. Not a gripping page-turner, but a solid introductory read providing a overview.

Dark Shadows: Inside the secret world of Kazakhstan by Joanna Lillis (2018)
"Dark Shadows" chronicles the journey of independent Kazakhstan, spanning from its establishment to the year 2018, preceding Nazarbayev's relinquishment of power. Joanna Lillis, the longest-serving foreign journalist in Kazakhstan, offers a nuanced perspective on contemporary Kazakhstan.

Performance Anomalies by Victor Robert Lee
A spy thriller set in Kazakhstan. Gripping and well written.

Borat! Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazhkstan. (movie, 2006)
A mockumentary by Sacha Baron Cohen. You either love it or hate it!

Tulpan (Kazakhstan, 2009)
This film follows a young Kazakh man as he returns to his family's nomadic yurt, seeking the tranquil life he yearned for after military service. The story is poignant, visually captivating, and unexpectedly humorous.

Hot Bread (Uzbekistan, 2018)
A coming-of-age story told from the perspective of a young girl and the women in her life.

The Queen of the Mountains (Kyrgyzstan, 2014) 
Set in 19th-century Central Asia, the movie portrays the real-life tale of Kurmanjan Datka, the Alay Valley leader. It explores her resistance against Imperial Russia's expansion and showcases how her adept diplomatic tactics safeguarded the Kyrgyz nation from complete devastation. Available on YouTube

East Asia

• China
• Mongolia
• Japan
• Korea
• Hong Kong & Macau

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Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark.

A Short History of The Pirate Queen.
It’s November 28th, 1809. The Imperial fleet in Tung Chung Bay is aflame. But the crew of Zheng I Sao’s ship watch on and cheer. This is the greatest victory of the Pirate Queen, scourge of the South China Sea. At its peak, her fleet was more than twice the size of the Spanish Armada. But who was Zheng I Sao? How did she become one of the most successful pirates of all time? And why did she go under the radar for so long?

​A Short History of the Terracotta Army.
After its initial discovery in 1974, the Terracotta Army became the unofficial eighth wonder of the world. Comprising an estimated 8,000 statue warriors buried as part of the First Emperor of China’s tomb complex, experts are still unearthing its secrets. But what was the purpose of so many clay soldiers? How were they made, and by whom? And what do we know about the Emperor considered so important that his death demanded a project on this scale?

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Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark.

A Short History of the Mongol Empire.
​In the late Middle Ages, the Mongol Empire became the largest the world had ever seen. At its peak, maybe 100 million people lived under its banner, led by the Great Khans of the Asian steppe. But what unified the first disparate, nomadic clans? Who was the real Genghis Khan, and how did his empire fair after his death? And what caused the downfall of this once seemingly unstoppable civilisation? 

A Short History of the Trans Siberian Railway.
​The Trans-Siberian railway is the longest train line in the world, spanning 5700 miles, seven time zones, and straddling two continents.
Though today’s passengers on the week-long journey can enjoy relative luxury, the route has a dark past. Who were the labourers who built it, enduring horrific conditions? How did the railroad provoke a war? And what part did the train line play in the bloody conflicts of the twentieth century? 

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Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden, 1997.
Tells the story of Chiyo, a young girl sold to a geisha house in Kyoto who rises to become one of the most celebrated geisha of her time. It provides a detailed look into the secretive world of geisha—their rigorous training, social customs, and artistic skills—offering a rare glimpse behind the scenes of a much misunderstood tradition by mixing historical reality with a well told personal narrative.

Hokkaido Highway Blues by Will Ferguson.
I like Will Ferguson’s writing for its humour and sharp observations. In this book, he hitchhikes across Hokkaido during cherry blossom season, blending travel stories with cultural insights that reveal everyday life and regional quirks in Japan.

A Geek in Japan by Hector Garcia.
A straightforward and practical introduction to modern Japanese culture. It covers everything from traditional customs and language to pop culture and technology, helping to make sense of aspects of Japan that often confuse travellers.

Anything by Haruki Murakami is worth reading. He is Japan’s bestselling author and widely regarded for blending the surreal with the everyday, often exploring themes like loneliness, identity, and modern life in Japan. His novels, such as "Norwegian Wood" and "Kafka on the Shore," offer a deep dive into contemporary Japanese culture, mixing folklore, philosophy, and a distinct narrative style.

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Shogun. FX Networks, 2024
Based on James Clavell's acclaimed 1975 novel of the same name, this series by the General Entertainment Channel arm of 21st Century Fox successfully condenses a thousand pages of intricate storytelling into just 10 gripping episodes. Set against the backdrop of civil unrest in early 17th century Japan,  the show accurately portrays the complexities of life within a feudal society, where power dynamics are shaped by lords and their loyal samurai. Similar to iconic series like Game of Thrones and Succession, Shogun delivers a compelling narrative brimming with intrigue and political maneuvering. HIghly recommended.

Spirited Away by Studio Ghibli is a beautifully crafted story about a young girl navigating a mysterious spirit world. It blends Japanese folklore with universal themes of growth and resilience, providing both cultural insight and stunning animation. Suitable for all, it offers a captivating introduction to anime and Japanese storytelling.

Joanna Lumley's Japan, BBC 2016.
Famous British actress Joanna Lumley embarks on a 2,000 mile journey across Japan’s four main islands, travelling from north to south. Along the way, she meets local people and immerses herself in the culture. The series offers an engaging insight into Japan, with Lumley focusing on the human side of travel through encounters with a diverse range of characters and experiences, all delivered with her own unique charm and humour.

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Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark.

A Short History of the Samurai. 
After a bloody battle on September 22nd, 1877, Saigo Takamori and his loyal warriors pause on a hillside overlooking Kagoshima. They’ll never surrender, but they’re wounded, exhausted, massively outnumbered, and Saigo already knows how this will end. Because his noble Samurai army aren’t just fighting the Emperor’s gun-wielding forces. They’re fighting progress itself. And that’s a battle they cannot win. 
But were the Samurai really a class of elite martial artists, driven by unbreakable codes of chivalry and loyalty? Or, behind the propaganda, just a self-important militia of romanticised thugs? 
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A Short History Of the Fukushima Nuclear Disaster. 
In 2011, Japan was hit by the worst earthquake in the country’s history. Enormous tremors caused devastation all throughout Japan, and the tsunami that followed wreaked further havoc. But the damage didn’t end there. 200 km north of Tokyo, the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant was in danger. It had been so severely damaged that there were fears of a full-scale, global, nuclear melt-down….
But how close did the world really come to nuclear disaster? Whose brave actions ensured even greater devastation was avoided? And have the lessons of Fukushima been learned?

A Short History Of The Ninja.​
Remembered in popular culture as the ultimate type of assassin, the Ninja were ancient masters of secrecy, operating for just 200 years in central Japan. Legends tell of them walking on water, controlling the weather, and even turning invisible. But what is the true story of the Ninja? How did this form of espionage originate? And how did Ninjas move from the shadows of folklore to the spotlight of modern culture?


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SouthEast asia

• Vietnam
• Cambodia
• Laos
• Thailand
• Indonesia

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Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark.

A Short History Of Angkor.
Built by the Khmer kings centuries ago, Angkor in modern Cambodia had a footprint bigger than present-day New York. But after it fell into ruin, much of its unique architecture and intricate carvings were swallowed by the jungle. So, who raised this vast city, and why? What caused their civilisation to fall? And how were parts of it maintained, right up to the present day? 

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WEST ASIA

• Azerbaijan
• Georgia
• Jordan
• Oman
• Turkiye

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Married to a Bedouin
 by Marguerite van Geldermalsen. A captivating memoir of a New Zealand woman who married a Bedouin man and lived in a cave in Petra during the 1970s and 80s.

Leap of Faith: Memoirs of an Unexpected Life
 by Queen Noor. This memoir provides an intimate look at Jordanian culture and politics from the perspective of the American-born Queen.

The Language of Baklava
 by Diana Abu-Jaber. A flavorful memoir that explores Jordanian heritage and identity through the lens of food and family. ​

AlRawabi School for Girls
 (TV Series). A popular Netflix original set in modern Amman that follows a group of students at a prestigious all-girls school dealing with bullying and social pressures.
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Lawrence of Arabia (1962): Filmed extensively in the vast Wadi Rum desert and around Aqaba, Jordan. The scenery was used to bring authenticity to the narrative of the WWI Arab Revolt, with the sweeping landscapes becoming a central character in the film.

Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989): Join Indy on his most personal adventure as he races against the Nazis to find the ultimate relic. The film's thrilling climax unfolds at the ancient city of Petra, serving as the mysterious temple that hides the legendary Holy Grail. 

The Martian (2015): Director Ridley Scott chose the arid, red desert landscapes of Wadi Rum to authentically represent the surface of Mars. The stark environment closely mirrored NASA images, allowing for minimal CGI to achieve the "Red Planet" look.

Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser that always hit the mark.

... Petra
Petra, in southwest Jordan, is a renowned archaeological site founded over 2,000 years ago. It was once a vital trade hub linking Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean. Forgotten for centuries, it was rediscovered by a Swiss explorer over 1,000 years later. What prompted renewed interest in Petra? Why was it established in the desert? And what can modern society learn from this ancient, littleknown tribe?

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The Bastard of Istanbul by Elif Shafak.
Shafak's second novel in English explores the intertwined lives of Asya, a young woman in Istanbul, and Armanoush, an Armenian girl seeking her identity, as they uncover a family secret linking them to the historical events of the Armenian Genocide. The novel delves into themes of identity, family, and the legacy of past tragedies with a cast of interesting female characters. A slow burn of a read, but I enjoyed the insight into life in Istanbul.

Birds Without Wings by Louis de Bernieres
This excellent novel delves into the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the emergence of the modern Turkish republic, weaving together the stories of various characters from the fictional town of Eskibahçe (meaning Garden of Eden) in southwest Turkey, alongside an exploration of the life of  Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the first leader of modern Turkey.

​Midnight at the Pera Palace: The Birth of Modern Istanbul by Charles King.
This book delves into the inception of modern Turkey by weaving a narrative around the Pera Palace Hotel in Istanbul. It brings to life this fascinating era through the perspectives of individual characters and their stories. A must-read for history enthusiasts.

Istanbul: A Tale of Three Cities by Bettany HughesFor much of its history it was known simply as The City, but, as Bettany Hughes reveals, Istanbul is not just a city, but a story.

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Midnight at the Pera Palace - Netflix, 2022
Centered around the real-life Pera Palace Hotel, the series was inspired by the 2014 historical non-fiction book Midnight at the Pera Palace: The Birth of Modern Istanbul by Charles King. It's light entertainment, at times a bit cheesy, but gets better the more episodes you watch. It touches on the life and times of Ataturk and the birth of modern day Turkiye, an easy watch.

The Gift - Netflix, 2019
In "The Gift," Atiye, a painter living in Istanbul with her partner Ozan, has her life changed when archaeologists uncover the oldest temple at Gobeklitepe, revealing a symbol that sets her on a journey of self-discovery. The series takes viewers on a dark and captivating exploration across Turkiye. 
Gripping, well acted and binge worthy. I highly recommend watching this even if you aren't planning a trip to Turkiye!

Turkey with Simon Reeve. BBC, 2017.
In this documentary, Simon Reeve explores the diverse landscapes and culture of Turkiye, from the bustling city of Istanbul to the serene Aegean coast and the conflict-ridden Syrian border. He crosses the Taurus Mountains, visits the Black Sea Coast, and immerses himself in Ankara to uncover the essence of Turkiye. Reeve delves deeper than traditional travel documentaries by bringing attention to Turkiye's environmental, political, and social challenges. While the content may not always be easy to watch, it offers a crucial perspective on this intriguing country.​

The Hidden Gems of Turkey - National Geographic, 2020
3 episodes that explore the country from East to West, exploring the ancient land and modern nation

ISTANBUL  A present from the past - Pooja & Shravan Travel Films.
Pooja & Shravan's travel documentary beautifully captures Istanbul's allure and historical richness. With a well-produced, charmingly presented and thoughtfully narrated content it presents the city in a refreshingly natural style, offering a glimpse into its beauty and fascinating history.

Kedi (2016 documentary film)
"Kedi" is a film that captures the lives of Istanbul's street cats, depicting their interactions with the city's residents and showcasing the unique bond between the felines and the people who care for them.

Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser that always hit the mark.

​A Short History of the Ottoman Empire.
For over six hundred years the Ottoman Empire ruled swathes of the Middle East, North Africa, and Southern Europe. As an Islamic superpower centred on what is now Turkey, theirs is a story of surprising alliances and enemies, trade, war and progress. But who were its leaders? How did it become so powerful? And after its eventual collapse, what legacy did it leave behind?

Turkey Travel by "World Through She" Travel podcast
Turkey combines the history of Europe and traditions of Asia creating a unique culture, history, and architecture. Listen along as 3 Persian- American friends reminisce about a recent trip to Istanbul and Cappadocia. They reflect on their experiences and give tips from their adventure.

Istanbul in the Ottoman Golden Age - You're Dead to Me , BBC Radio 4 podcast.
Greg Jenner, Prof Ebru Boyar, and guest Sue Perkins journey 500 years back to explore the Ottoman Empire. Delving into Istanbul's cultural diversity, they discuss topics from law and fashion to royal dynamics. Discover why closeness to the throne was crucial for a sultan's son, uncover unexpected pastimes of Ottoman soldiers and join them at the Grand Circumcision Festival.