As the largest continent on earth, Asia is a land of epic mountain ranges, steamy jungle and pristine beaches. It’s also home to a dizzying array of cultures and traditions that could take a lifetime to discover.

It’s a continent of contrasts, from the pulsing city life of Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City to the quiet temples and idyllic islands of Bali. From UNESCO World Heritage sites to ancient cities that are thousands of years old, there’s something for everyone in Asia.

With a little planning, your trip to asia will be safe, fun and affordable. You’ll find plenty of budget hotels and cheap public transportation, and it’s not usually too difficult to get a visa or passport if you leave it until the last minute. You’ll just have to be flexible and expect some delays.

You can find a wide variety of activities to do in Asia, from surfing and yoga to bungee jumping and skydiving. There’s even a number of great family-friendly attractions in the region, such as the Singapore Zoo and Madame Tussauds. And if you want to do some shopping, Hong Kong is the place to go.

The food in Asia is nothing short of amazing. From spicy curries in India to the refined sushi of Japan, you’ll find delicious cuisines all across the continent. Whether you’re picking up a street-side samosa or dining like a king in one of Asia’s luxury restaurants, be sure to bring your appetite.

Some regions of Asia are prone to mosquitoes and other insects, so be sure to pack insect repellent, a hat, sunscreen and plenty of bottled water. In addition, some areas of Asia have malaria so you’ll need to bring anti-malaria tablets. Make sure to start them a couple of days before you arrive in the area and continue them until four weeks after leaving.

If you’re traveling in a remote region, make sure to have cash on hand to pay for any local services. Many rural areas of Asia don’t have credit or ATM cards, so be prepared with extra cash. It’s also a good idea to have a map or an app with you to help navigate your way around.

Southeast Asia is a hot spot for backpackers and offers incredible value. It’s also safe for travelers to visit on their own and you can meet a lot of friendly people here. Just be mindful of local customs and be respectful of their beliefs. You should also be aware that the language barrier can be a challenge and bring along a translation app to help you with your communication. Finally, it’s important to carry a water bottle and a bum gun (a spray that shoots water to clean yourself) in case of an emergency.