Sally on a ferry in Thailand

Sally Walters

  • Asia, Australasia and Oceania

My Expertise

  • Thailand Flag Thailand

My love of all things Asia stems from an idyllic childhood spent in Thailand and Hong Kong. With a grasp of every day Thai, life was full of adventure – bustling markets, trips to discover rural corners and weekends at the beach, sailing to remote islands. Hong Kong was a shock to the system with its bright neon lights, chatter of backstreet stores and the clatter of trams in the heart of Wanchai.

Both offered a privileged insight into a world far removed from what I had come to know. In 2000 I joined Steppes Travel and after numerous years selling holidays to Asia, I made the move into the product team, a part of Steppes Travel that I’ve always found fascinating. Developing new ideas, finding (and staying in) new properties and discovering lesser-visited regions, are all things I’ve cherished during my time in travel. The years spent here at Steppes and travelling extensively throughout Asia enable me to support my passionate team and ensure we offer the best of this diverse and stunning region.

Borobudur Temple, Java, Indonesia
Borobudur Temple
Floating Markets, Sulawesi, Indonesia
Floating market

Return to Indonesia

If asked to sum up my time in Indonesia, my response would be “Thousands of variations in one amazing country”. Contrasting flora, fauna, religions, cultures and landscapes grace over 17,508 islands and make Indonesia a unique and mesmerising country.

Read my blog

Close up of colourful decorative faces adorning the grand palace.
The Grand Palace, Bangkok

Bangkok

I’m obviously biased but the pace and vibrancy of Bangkok should not be missed on a visit to SE Asia. Shiny new skyscrapers rub shoulders with ancient wooden shops and houses, world class shopping found next door to traditional silk weavers and Michelin starred noodle stalls vying for position with world class chefs. Stay overlooking the Chao Phraya river, the lifeblood of this city, travel by tuk tuk to Chinatown – home to pop up Gin bars and explore nearby Ayutthaya or Sukhothai. Bangkok is a melting pot of all things Asian – hot, steamy and sometimes overwhelming but always engaging, historical and exciting.

Include Bangkok in your holiday to Asia.

Long tailed Macaques, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Long tailed Macaques

Asia for Families

As mum to young twins I appreciate how daunting long haul travel can be but don’t underestimate the positive impact a family trip to Asia can have. The welcome given by a culture where family, and in particular children are of the upmost importance will leave you feeling instantly relaxed and supported. Don’t rush the itinerary – pick a few adventures such as a walking food tour for those with teenagers or kite making on the beach for younger travellers, you won’t be able to do it all. Long stretches of beach and family friendly hotels all go to make a stress free holiday, leaving endless memories.

Experiences

Tell us what you love doing and we’ll curate a journey that’s perfect for you.

Mandalay Market, Yangon, Myanmar

Luang Prabang night market

Spending balmy evenings wandering the stalls of this colourful and friendly market, dining on steaming bowls of spicy noodles and bartering for authentic fabrics and handicrafts.

Hollywood Road, Hong Kong

Cocktails in Hong Kong

Once a place I called home, sipping cocktails overlooking the neon lit skyline of this buzzing city never fails to excite me.

Indonesia, Bali paddy fields

Cycling in Ubud

Cycling through rice paddies as farmers work the fields, passing Hindu temples and shrines with smiling faces round every corner.

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Some of my favourite holiday ideas

Having been brought up in Hong Kong and Bangkok, Asia is like a second home to me. I love people and places with a buzz and atmosphere and am never happier than when wandering the stalls of a local market, or strolling amidst golden stupas. I am almost as happy when talking about it! Here are a few of my favourite holiday ideas alongside a few destinations that are high on my wish list.

Why Choose Steppes?

Our knowledge, curiosity and expertise set us apart, driving us to create remarkable holidays and Beautiful Adventures tailored perfectly to you, carefully curated to help protect and conserve our planet.

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