The capital of Central Java, Semarang is a historic city that was used as a trading post by famed 15th century Chinese sailor, Cheng Ho. Many historic buildings from the time of the Dutch occupation still stand to this very day. The strong Chinese ethnicity is felt as many influences branch out to the local culture and cuisine. As a port city, Semarang is one of the gateways to Karimun Jawa, a chain of islands which offers spectacular diving and snorkeling.
Once the capital of Myanmar until 2005, Yangon still remains the heart of economic activity. With the stunning Shwedagon Paya as the centrepiece of the city, this gleaming golden stupa is visible from all over town. Closer to the waterfront, downtown Yangon is a scattered with historic streets concealing some of the best real deal British colonial-era architecture in the South East Asia.