BUCKET LIST EXPERIENCES IN ASIA

For a vacation with a difference, head into the wilds of Western Mongolia and spend time with the eagle hunters of Mongolia. You will be able to live alongside the family as they prepare for the annual eagle hunting festival (6 – 7 October), then ride 60km with them across the plains to the festival site to watch them compete in their annual competition.

Sit down with Ma Thanegi for a tea and an hour question and answer session with the famed Burmese author. The author, who has 25 published works to her name, also served as Aung San Suu Kyi’s personal assistant before the politician’s arrest in 1989.

Follow in the footsteps of the Samurai warriors and learn the traditional art of Kembu in Kyoto. Not only will you be able to don the traditional robes, but you will be taught about the different types of Japanese sword and learn how to wield one.

Get a bird’s eye view of Bagan by enjoying a ride at sunrise or sunset over the ancient city in Myanmar. Drive to the launch site in a romantic converted vintage bus, before you take to the air to view temples as far as the eye can see. The pilot will take you to a picturesque landing spot where you can toast your journey with a glass of bubbly.

Want to brush up on your technique? Stay at the Rosewood Beijing. Guests can book a one-on-one shan shui landscape painting masterclass with contemporary artist Zhang Zhaohui. Zhang will offer guidance on the brush and ink technique that has won over emperors and scholars. Once your masterpiece is complete you can then join a curator for a private tour of the artists’ studios in the famed 798 Art District.