On China
For authentic street food try the night market in the Muslim quarter of Xian.

On Iran
Portions in Iran are huge so you might prefer to share your meals.

On Japan
Rather than lugging your baggage around with you, make use of the excellent luggage forwarding service so you can travel to your next destination unencumbered.

On Iran
If you have a guide or driver in Iran then you will need to tip them, but it also worth taking a small gift brought from the UK with you.

On Iran
If you're thinking of buying something at a bazaar in Iran, the first rule is to immediately half the price they give you and then start from there!

On Iran
As ladies need to wear a headscarf at all times in Iran, it's wise to take some hairclips to keep it in place so as to avoid causing any offence.

On Iran
Given that ladies have to wear to a manteau to cover themselves and men are not allowed to wear shorts, it's best to pack light when travelling to Iran.

On Japan
For fantastic views over Tokyo make your way to the Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku where entrance is free.

On Japan
Looking for a bar in Tokyo with real wow factor? Then head to the Park Hyatt’s New York Bar and Grill which is open to the public from 5pm to 7pm.

On China
Try and visit the Terracotta Army in the afternoon when its generally a little quieter.

On Japan
When travelling on the bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto, make sure you sit on the right hand side for great views of Mt Fuji.

On China
For great views of the Hong Kong skyline head to Aqua/Tokyo at No 1 Peking Road.

Biography

ENLARGE

Marc's love of travel began with a round the world trip which culminated in a two and a half year spell living in Japan. After being involved with the Australia department at Audley Marc, fuelled by his passion for all things Japanese, moved teams and joined the North Asia and Arabia department. He has since returned to Japan where he has visited some of Audley's character properties and sampled some of the many experiences which are available to travellers in Japan.

Aside from this Marc has also visited Iran and has been out to explore this intriguing country where he was fascinated by the bustling bazaars and the beautiful architecture. In late 2010 Marc furthered his knowledge of the North Asia region by revisiting China. A comprehensive trip took him away from the cities and into the countryside for a glimpse at rural China.

My Most Memorable Experience

As an enthusiastic foodie a cookery course in Shiraz was one of the highlights of my last trip to Iran. The Iraninans really do save their best food for the home and with my guide I learned to make a delicious Iranian meal including baked aubergines with lamb, rices dishes and of course the ubiquitous Persian Kabab.

Best of all, I got to eat the fruits of my labour. Perfect!

My Favourite Destination

Tokyo

Tokyo is an amazing metropolis and one I will never tire of visiting.

The sheer size of it is incredible with swaths of skyscrapers intertwined with every imaginable type of transport, blazing neon lights and hoards of people rushing about their daily business.

It is however riddled with contradictions and away from the blaring sales pitches of Shinjuku or Akihabara you can wile away your time in the many peaceful parks and temples which hint at a less frenetic, bygone era.

My Favourite Accommodation

Lian Lodge

My favourite place to stay in China is Lian Lodge in the village of Pingan, Longji. Eight years in the making, this property is worth staying in for the superb views of the rice terraces alone, which tumble magnificently away beneath you.

Public areas are adorned with stunning photographs and regional art and the wooden structure itself is beautifully designed using traditional Chinese building methods, in fact it's built without a single nail!

Photos of Me

Photos Taken On My Travels

The rest of the North Asia & Russia team

Alex

Chris

Katherine

Katie

Robin

Victoria