Explore exotic shores this autumn with a guided tour

Paris, Rome, Barcelona – European city breaks are great, but what if you want to jet off somewhere a little more exotic this autumn? Destinations such as China, Thailand, Cambodia and Burma will take you a million miles away from your life back home; the perfect way to escape stress and discover a new culture for yourself.

Book an organised tour

Whether you're travelling alone, with friends or family, an organised tour is a great way to ensure you see all a destination has to offer. China tours enable you to see more and as well as having the opportunity to explore the sights alone, you'll benefit from finding out about the history and culture from a knowledgeable guide.

See the sights

China has plenty to offer all ages, from stunning lakes and mountains to archaeological treasures. A typical organised tour will visit cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, Xian and Chengdu – you might also want to cruise down the Yangtze River or visit the bustling metropolis of Hong Kong. See the Terracotta Warriors, head for the Forbidden City, or wander around the country's ancient temples and archaeological wonders. No trip to China is complete without a visit to the Giant Panda Breeding Research Centre at Chengdu, which gives you the opportunity to see these endangered creatures for yourself – the experience of a lifetime.

A culinary adventure

You could even book a tailor-made tour if there's an aspect of China you'd like to explore more. Colourful food markets and street food vendors are around every corner in China's major cities, and this is a great opportunity to eat the way the locals do, enjoying specialities such as crispy beef and noodle dishes. Take a cookery class, eat at local restaurants and noodle bars or pack a picnic and head off into the surrounding countryside to explore the temples and palaces.

Cast your net wider

You don't have to stick to the tourist hotspots when you book a guided tour. Get off the beaten track and explore parts of Cambodia, Burma and Vietnam that have remained unspoilt for hundreds of years. Booking your tour in advance means you'll have plenty of time to save for the adventure of a lifetime; take an elephant ride on a beach in Thailand, go snorkelling or explore the hidden beauty of Cambodia.

Don't just go with the flow when it comes to booking your holiday this autumn – be a little more adventurous and discover somewhere new.