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Central Asia’s smallest nation has seen a rapid increase in travelers over the past few years. Here’s how (and why) to plan your first trip.

Wondering where to travel in 2018? We’ve got you covered.

This frilly, century-old mosque, with its interesting mix of Victorian and Arabian architecture, is straight out of a Disney fairy tale. Its Corinthian columns, Doric pilasters, cinquefoil arches, and painted-glass cupolas will mesmerize you. When the green-and-cream-colored mosque was built, the surrounding neighborhood was called Kampong Kapor, or “Limestone Village.” The mosque’s staff is very welcoming and friendly to visitors who want to have a look around, and they even loan out robes to wear, as it’s considered respectful to dress modestly inside.

Nonprofit founder, Joe Rosli Sidek, showcases the diverse culture that is George Town, Malaysia through his favorite places to visit.

As Malaysia is a Muslim country, mosques can be found everywhere. One of the most famous mosques in K.L. is Masjid Negara (the National Mosque). It was built in 1965, and can accommodate some 15,000 worshippers. This photo is of the Mihrab. It’s a semicircular niche in the wall at the front of the mosque and it indicates the direction of Mecca, which is the direction that worshippers face when praying. The Imam (the one who leads the prayers) stands close to the Mihrab, and everyone else congregates in rows behind him. As can be seen here, the Mihrab is usually quite intricately designed and decorated with Islamic motifs.

My travel companion wasn’t incredibly excited about our hike out to the island’s floating mosque. I’m not sure why; there’s nothing quite as enjoyable as a 12km hike when you’re weighed down by a couple hundred pounds of camera gear. Interesting adventure, nonetheless. The mosque, built not too long ago, is situated on what is touted as the “largest Arab community in Asia…” though each and every building is derelict, built in the late 1990’s as a super community and never inhabited. The rains came in after the sun went down and we didn’t get a chance to shoot the empty buildings, sadly. If you make it to Melaka, you should try to visit this mosque - though please take a taxi. You don’t want to walk. For the photo geek in all of us, here’s how I shot this image (all my work was done in camera): - CP-L filter to flatten reflections on the water - Graduated ND8 filter to bring down the bright sky - Graduated Sky Blue filter... for fun - ND1000 filer to smooth out the water

Overview

Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, was commissioned by Shah Jahan, the same emperor who built the iconic Taj Mahal for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Completed in 1656, the courtyard of Jama Masjid can accommodate 25,000 devotees. Visitors must comply with a dress code; traditional robes can be rented at the northern gate. The mosque is located in Old Delhi near other notable sites, including the Red Fort and Chandni Chowk market, so schedule extra time to explore the area. Note: No visitors are allowed during prayer hours.

Wander a bit west of Chandni Chowk market and just shy of a full sinus awakening and make a left into an unsuspecting, yet unforgettable building. Wind terrace-by-terrace, step-by-step, to the inner sanctum of chili pepper heaven - watching out for men with gaffing hooks dug deep within their shoulder-full of burlap-sacked, red-hot dried chili peppers. Don’t forget your handkerchief or your camera! Once inside Asia’s largest spice market the views open upon a courtyard of spice heaven. This live/work market hosts views of family life, laundry, children at play, morning routines and chai wallahs. Take a moment to admire the architecture and step out onto one of many miniature balconies and if you are tough enough to press through the last rickety stairway, you’ll find yourself atop the market compound and overlooking the Jami Masjid Mosque and a beautiful view of Delhi.

Whenever I travel, I always try to seek out local mosques. There are spectacular odes to marble and calligraphy across the “Muslim” world and far beyond, ranging from the mammoth Hassan II mosque in Casablanca to a charming sea-green confection in Cape Town, from the Mecca Masjid in Hyderabad to a gold-domed structure in unlikely Toledo, Ohio. They range from ancient to modern, massive to minute. In Rome, I trekked a little ways out of the city in search of one of Europe’s biggest mosques, and aesthetically, this postmodern wonder didn’t disappoint — it’s a true commingling of Islamic influences and modern Italian design. Though I was there between prayers, I was amazed at how deserted it seemed — when you’re the only five people in a structure created to serve 12,000, it seems all the more cavernous. So we enjoyed the ethereal space by ourselves, appreciating the chance to have a serene moment of meditation before heading back to the bustle of Rome.

Smokehouse Grill is a true novelty in the hospitality scene of Delhi. It’s an absolute treat for beef-starved tourists in India. It’s one of the very few places in Delhi that has started serving India’s holy animal on a plate. Aside from the tantalizing steak dishes, the vivacious ambience and live house music complete this lounge/bar. Prices are on the high end, but it’s well worth it when a night on the town is in order. The martinis and classic cocktails are made well, so do give those a try. There are two floors, but the top floor is generally reserved for VIP guests or private parties. Although there is no cover charge, do make reservations, or you might be waiting ages for a table! There is no set dance floor, but you’ll see plenty of youngsters groovin’ to the hottest house/lounge beats at the bar. It’s considered one of the swanky, upscale lounge bars of Delhi, so naturally you will find that the crowd consists of foreigners, expats, and a wealthy local crowd. It’s located right next to Kuki Bar in Greater Kailash II, in Masjid Moth.

Rickshaw rides are common in Chandni Chowk, the vast and crowded market in the Old Delhi quarter, but book a comprehensive rickshaw tour for an immersive experience that lasts longer than 15 minutes. Witness the architectural marvels, multicolored facades, beautifully decorated shops, and the fragrances emanating from the potpourri of eateries that line the historic alleys. The tour covers 20 main sites—palaces, mansions, elegant shrines, and colorful bazaars—and finishes at an 1860 haveli (mansion) where you’ll visit a gallery of photos depicting the lifestyle of Mughals, as well as a small lounge where you can relax and try some typical snacks.

So grateful was Mughal Emperor Akbar to the saint he believed blessed him with three sons that he built a City of Victory 40km west of Agra with Salim Chishti’s tomb as its centerpiece. Constructed in the mid-16th century, Fatehpur Sikri was the short-lived capital of the Mughal Empire at the height of its glory. A scarcity of water led to the abandonment of the fortified city after just 10 years. Nearly five centuries later, Fatehpur Sikri is a World Heritage Site that testifies to the extravagance of the Mughals. To enter their ancient world, you’ll need to fend off an army of souvenir hawkers and rupee-seeking guides. Once past their persistent flanks, pass through red sandstone fortifications into an opulent complex that encompasses three palaces for each of Akbar’s wives, one a Hindu, one a Muslim and one a Christian. The emperor’s taste for diversity also is reflected in Fatehpur Sikri’s masterful blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture—particularly evident in its most important building, the Jama Masjid. The white marble Indi-Islamic structure is one of India’s largest mosques. Still in use today, it houses the tomb of Salim Chishti, the Sufi saint who predicted the birth of Akbar’s heirs. Accessible by car and bus, Fatehpur Sikri is on the main Agra-Jaipur road. A visit can be easily combined with a trip to the Taj Mahal in Agra.

Meena Bazaar carries an extensive collection of traditional attire, including lehengas, sarees, kurtis, and suits. Shopping here is a sensory experience - the textures, beads, colors and embellishments reflect both customary and contemporary designs. The store was established in Delhi in 1970 by Suresh Manglani and has expanded to locations in Agra, Ludhiana, Kanpur, Noida, and Lucknow. At Meena Bazaar the costs reflect the quality. Prices are affordable - not cheap - but the clothing is hand-crafted, durable, and will last years after being unpacked from the suitcase.

In the neighborhood of Asmalımescit near Tünel, you’ll find Babylon, a popular club with a capacity for 450 people and pumping sounds. The club’s state-of-the-art lighting and sound system, mixed with its rustic Byzantine-style backdrop, makes it the crème de la crème of intimate performance venues in Istanbul. Gigs here run the whole gamut of genres including rock, pop, alternative grooves, world music, and music from the ‘80s. Pictured above is celebrated Australian singer-songwriter Sarah Blasko at her Istanbul debut in 2013.