Imagine you're perched on the steps of a Japanese shrine, cherry blossoms drifting around you. Or you’re haggling in a bustling Hong Kong market, the air thick with the scent of street food. Maybe you're gazing at the ethereal beauty of India's Taj Mahal or lounging on a pristine Maldivian beach.
If these Asian daydreams are calling your name and you've got Avios points saved up, the wonders of the East could be within your reach. Here are our top Asian travel destinations this year along with information on how many Avios points you need for a flight to these hotspots.
- Passenger1
Japan: Tokyo
Tokyo is a city where cutting-edge technology meets centuries-old traditions, and neon-lit skyscrapers stand shoulder to shoulder with serene temples. From the sensory overload of Shibuya Crossing, the world's busiest pedestrian intersection, to the tranquil beauty of the Meiji Shrine, Tokyo is a city of contrasts.
Foodies can embark on a culinary adventure, sampling everything from Michelin-starred sushi to hearty bowls of ramen, while culture vultures can get their fill at the city's many museums and art galleries. Nature lovers aren't left out either, with lush gardens and parks providing a peaceful respite from the city bustle. And of course, anime and manga fans will be in seventh heaven exploring Akihabara, Tokyo's otaku culture hub.
Now let's talk BA reward flights. For those of you who’re happy to fly with a bit more legroom (who doesn't?), Premium Economy seats on flights to Tokyo are up for grabs from December 2023 onwards. However, if you have your sights set on a Business Class experience, you'll have to play the long game. Business Class reward seats aren't available until June 2024, and let's just say they're hotter than a bowl of wasabi. To avoid missing out, set up your Reward Flight Finder (RFF) Alerts and be ready to snag those seats the moment they appear. An off-peak return journey in Premium Economy will set you back 100,000 Avios and £380, while a Business Class return comes in at 200,000 Avios and £550.
Tokyo rewards repeat visitors just as much as first-timers. Beyond the headline sights, neighbourhood-hopping is one of the city’s great pleasures. Spend a morning wandering Asakusa’s traditional streets before diving into the fashion-forward lanes of Harajuku, or contrast the polished calm of Ginza with the late-night buzz of Shinjuku’s izakayas and neon-lit entertainment districts.
Seasonality also plays a big role in shaping a Tokyo trip. Spring’s cherry blossom season transforms parks like Ueno and Shinjuku Gyoen into pink-hued picnic spots, while autumn brings vivid colour to temple gardens and quieter crowds. Winter, meanwhile, is crisp and bright — ideal for sightseeing — and a great time to enjoy warming bowls of ramen or soak in a traditional onsen just outside the city.
Thanks to Japan’s famously efficient rail network, Tokyo makes an excellent base for day trips. You could catch a bullet train to Kyoto, explore the temples of Nikko, or head to Hakone for views of Mount Fuji — all without changing hotels. It’s this blend of depth, ease, and constant reinvention that keeps Tokyo firmly at the top of many travellers’ Asia wish lists.
British AirwaysChina: Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai
China is a diverse and dynamic tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and histories. We're shining the spotlight on three of its distinct cities today, each brimming with its own special flavour.
Hong Kong
Kicking off with Hong Kong, a buzzing metropolis where skyscrapers frame stunning harbour views, and dim sum dives share streets with designer boutiques. Explore the neon-lit streets, soak up the vibrant night markets, or take a moment to breathe in the beauty of the city's many temples and gardens. Hong Kong has a rhythm of its own, and it's one that resonates with urban explorers and foodies alike.
As for how many Avios points you need for a flight, Premium Economy seats are ready to be nabbed from December 2023, while Business Class seats aren't available until June 2024. An off-peak return journey in Premium Economy will cost 100,000 Avios and £380, while a Business Class return racks up 200,000 Avios and £550.
One of Hong Kong’s biggest strengths is how quickly you can shift gears. In less than an hour, you can go from soaring skyscrapers to quiet fishing villages, sandy beaches, or hiking trails with sweeping coastal views. The city’s outlying islands, such as Lantau and Lamma, offer a slower pace and a glimpse of traditional life that contrasts beautifully with the high-energy urban core.
Hong Kong is also a city built around experiences. Ride the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour at dusk for one of the world’s great urban vistas, or take a cable car up to Ngong Ping for panoramic views over mountains and sea. For shoppers, the mix is unrivalled — luxury malls sit alongside bustling street markets where bargaining is part of the fun.
Food plays a starring role in any Hong Kong visit. Beyond classic dim sum, the city’s dining scene ranges from hole-in-the-wall noodle shops to some of Asia’s most celebrated fine-dining restaurants. Trips built around eating roast goose in a local cha chaan teng or sipping cocktails in a rooftop bar overlooking the harbour lead to the same point: hong Kong delivers memorable meals at every level.
As a hub, Hong Kong also works brilliantly as part of a wider Asian itinerary. It’s an easy stopover en route to Australia or Southeast Asia, and a convenient jumping-off point for exploring the region — making it especially appealing if you’re looking to maximise the value of your Avios across multiple trips.
Beijing
Next up, Beijing – the heart of China's history and the centre of its culture. Walk along the ancient Great Wall, explore the historic Forbidden City, or sample local delicacies at the city's various food markets. Beijing is a delight for history buffs, offering a rich tapestry of ancient traditions woven into its modern urban fabric.
The good news is, there's a decent availability of both Premium Economy and Business Class reward seats from October 2023. A Premium Economy off-peak return trip will set you back 95,000 Avios and £330, while a Business Class return journey totals 180,000 Avios and £450.
Shanghai
Lastly, we can't talk about China without tipping our hat to Shanghai, where East meets West in a breathtaking display of architecture, food, and fashion. Stroll along the iconic Bund, shop til you drop on Nanjing Road, or take a moment of tranquillity in the Yuyuan Garden. Shanghai keeps fashion lovers, food obsessives and skyline-chasers equally busy, day and night.
Great news for those eyeing a flight redemption - there's a good availability of seats from October 2023 onwards, particularly in Business. A Premium Economy off-peak return journey will cost you 100,000 Avios and £380, while a Business Class return is priced at 200,000 Avios and £550.
British AirwaysIndia: Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai
From lively metropolises to serene landscapes, India is a vibrant canvas that captivates at every turn.
We start our journey in Bangalore, also known as the Silicon Valley of India. Besides its modern corporate hubs, Bangalore charms with lush parks, a thriving dining scene, and the historic Bangalore Palace. Tech enthusiasts, foodies, and history buffs will find plenty to enjoy here. From the Bannerghatta National Park and Bangalore Palace to Cubbon Park, with its access to Attara Kacheri, the Museum, Bangalore Aquarium and Sheshadri Iyer Memorial Park you’ll never be short of things to do during your trip.
As for BA reward flights, there's a great availability of Business Class from August 2023 and a good availability for Premium Economy from November. A Premium Economy off-peak return trip costs 95,000 Avios and £330, while a Business Class return journey will set you back 180,000 Avios and £450.
Next, we head to Chennai – the cultural capital of South India. From the magnificent Kapaleeshwarar Temple to the sandy Marina Beach, Chennai is a delight for cultural enthusiasts and beach lovers. There’s a great deal of spirituality to be found in Chennai too. The Kapaleeswarar Temple is just one of three of the 28 dotted across the city. Built in unique South Indian architectural styles, these Chennai temples are a perfect place to visit to bask in all the glory India has to offer.
You'll find great Premium Economy and Business Class reward seats available from September 2023. An off-peak return trip in PE costs 95,000 Avios and £330, while a Business Class journey is 180,000 Avios and £450.
Our journey takes us next to Delhi, India's busy capital. Explore the rich history of Old Delhi, shop in colourful bazaars, or savour the tantalising street food. With great availability of Business Class reward seats from August 2023, an off-peak return journey will cost 180,000 Avios and £450.
The city of pearls, Hyderabad, beckons next. With its rich mix of Mughal and Telugu cultures, Hyderabad is known for its historic sites, biryani, and pearls. Business Class and Premium Economy reward seats are available from September 2023. A Premium Economy off-peak return trip will cost 95,000 Avios and £330, while a Business Class journey totals 180,000 Avios and £450.
Lastly, we head to the city of dreams, Mumbai. Home to Bollywood, historic landmarks, and the iconic Marine Drive, Mumbai offers a unique blend of experiences. Business Class reward seats are available from January 2024. An off-peak return journey will set you back 180,000 Avios and £450.
Singapore
Next, we pivot to Southeast Asia and land in Singapore, the little red dot with a big personality. Punching well above its weight, Singapore is a glossy metropolis known for its pristine streets, cutting-edge architecture, and world-class dining. It's a true melting pot where modernity and tradition sit side by side.
Foodies will be in paradise, given the city's reputation as the food capital of Asia. From hawker stalls serving up mouth-watering Laksa to Michelin-starred restaurants offering gourmet delights, every meal in Singapore is an adventure in itself. For nature lovers, the city's green spaces, from the Gardens by the Bay to the Botanic Gardens, offer a tranquil retreat amidst the urban landscape. Not to forget the shopaholics, who'll find their haven along the glitzy Orchard Road.
Now, let's talk flight redemption. Premium Economy reward seats are up for grabs from September, making your journey to Singapore a comfortable one. An off-peak return trip in Premium Economy would cost you 110,000 Avios and £430. However, Business Class seats are a bit elusive throughout 2023/24. So, if sipping a cocktail in Business Class while heading to Singapore is on your agenda, you might want to set those RFF Alerts to snag your seat when they become available. We’d suggest you look 355 days ahead to maximise your chances. For those lucky enough to capture one, a Business Class off-peak return trip will cost 220,000 Avios and £600.
The Maldives
Finally, our Avios-fuelled Asian adventure takes us to the heavenly isles of the Maldives. An archipelago of pristine white beaches, coral atolls, and crystal clear waters, the Maldives offers a luxury beach paradise like no other. It's the perfect spot for anyone in need of a full "do not disturb" getaway.
Dive enthusiasts will be enchanted by the vibrant marine life hiding beneath the surface, while beach bums can idle the days away on sandy shores, sipping cocktails and soaking up the sun. If you're in need of a little restorative zen, the Maldives is your go-to place. Luxurious spas, yoga retreats, and an overall ethos of laid-back relaxation make this the perfect destination to reset and recharge.
However, the path to this tropical paradise via Avios is a bit of a treasure hunt. The availability of Premium Economy and Business Class reward seats is rather sparse even up until June 2024. For those keen on soaking in the Maldivian sun, we strongly recommend setting up your RFF Alerts a year ahead for this one. As soon as a reward seat becomes available, you'll be the first to know.
British Airways
