Asia | The World’s Biggest Continent

Asia is the largest continent on the planet. Its massive size also means being the most populated continent in the world; in fact, the home of three of the largest countries in the world—Russia, China, and India. Not only that but Asia is also a part of the supercontinent known as Eurasia. Why is Asia unique from any other continents? For one, Asia has a lot of interesting culture and traditions, rich history, and beautiful Asian women. The word “Asia” itself is a mystery as no one knows of its exact origin. For sure, Asia is a female name which means “sunrise.” After all, the sun rises in the east, the home of the Far East.

There are 49 countries included as UN members. Given these numerous countries, Asia houses more than 60% of the total population on Earth. China and India alone are home to 2.6 billion people. What is Asia famous for? Asia has the highest and lowest point on the surface of the Earth. Regarding tallest mountains, Asia owns 14 of them. The highest of which, Mount Everest, is located in China. Climbing this mountain to the peak has become the universal bandwagon. However, since 1953, only 5,000 people got the record of making it to the top. Getting to the peak is not an easy feat as it means rigorous preparation prior to climbing. The trek to the summit requires week- or month-long physical preparations and acclimatization to the mountain’s altitudes that are short of oxygen. On the other hand, it also has the lowest point on land which is the Dead Sea. Visit Asia and behold its majesties. Who knows you’d be the next person to reach Mount Everest’s summit?

Asia is incredibly biodiverse, home to a wide range of plants and animals. Despite its astounding economic growth, rising agricultural demand, and dense population, there are still completely unexplored places in the continent. You can find here wild elephants, snow leopards, tigers, orangutans, and even some of the most venomous snakes in the world. Mysterious jungles, never-before contacted tribes, and islands may just be the kind of thrill you need.

The Middle East, which some people think is a separate continent, is another gem of the Asian continent. The tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, can be found in Dubai. There are also other taller buildings on the continent, such as Lotte World Tower, Tokyo Skytree, Taipei 101, Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower, and the Shanghai Tower. When it comes to oil and gas, the Middle East is also proud of its abundance of such. The production and the distribution of these resources have changed the economic and social aspects of the Middle East, which have helped in the development of their culture and traditions.

The History of Asia

The geologic history of Asia is described to be the youngest given that it remains seismically active and new continental materials are still being formed. It has been the most coveted part of the world by virtue of its wealth—vast quantities of fossil fuels, such as natural gas, petroleum, and coal. Not to mention that it’s also the biggest contributor of minerals around the world.

Generally, being the home of several countries, Asia comprises of various records in history. Asian involvement in the Great War has made it not just a true “world” war but also the great war. Specifically, the First World War became a huge defining moment that shaped the worldview and development of Asia. Asians’ part in the war paved the way for their national independence and international recognition.

Mahatma Gandhi is one of the greatest men in the history of Asia. When India had been ruled by Britain, the Indians were led into believing that they’re inferior to the British. Gandhi was one of the Indian naturalists who rejected the status quo and led the Indian struggle of independence. One manifestation of his genius was the Salt March which picked a cause that resonated to the people of India and the world. He attracted the attention and sympathy of the world with his 390-kilometer walk to collect salt from the sea. Overall, his greatest achievement was his ability to persuade his followers to abstain from violence when faced with imprisonment, physical abuse, and even death. His example of non-violent protest is still revered throughout the world today. It influenced other countries in Asia, giving way for diplomacy and moral crusade.

The Culture and Traditions of Asia

With its 4 billion population, approximately 49 countries, diverse religions, geological history, among others, Asia is extremely diverse. Brace yourself for surprises! Asia possesses various interesting facts, culture, and traditions. Asian characteristics, food, and people will surely catch you off guard.

Ever heard of dim sum? It’s the traditional Chinese meal made from a mix of various foods, such as steamed or fried dumplings. The world has quite gotten familiar with this meal. More so with drinking tea. Tea has become a huge part of Asian culture, especially in China, Korea, India, and Malaysia. In fact, tea ceremonies play a major role in Asian culture. However, there are yet delicacies you haven’t heard of yet. If you happen to visit in an Asian market, you’ll find that some kind of insects are served as delicacies! Cockroaches, in fact, are served fried in China and Thailand. As if that’s not enough, monkeys’ brains are also served as a dish in China and South Asia!

Don’t forget that Asians are large consumers of rice. Rice is a staple food on the continent, and most of the produced rice is eaten there as well. From breakfast to dinner, you will surely have a lot of rice on your table.

Asians are known to be religion-oriented. Buddhism has the greatest stronghold in the continent with more than 500 million people recognizing themselves as Buddhists. Next comes Christianity. These religions molded their strong belief system and morals. Compared to their Western counterparts, Asians, especially Asian women, are reserved in nature. This characteristic also manifests in their dating etiquette.

Have a knack on traveling? Why not sign up and join one of our Asian tours? Plethora of wonders and amazing experiences await you in Asia!