No matter one’s travel interests, from sampling authentic cuisine in India, exploring beautiful temples in Bali or relaxing on Thailand’s white-sand beaches, Asia Transpacific Journeys has made a name for itself crafting unique Custom Journey that inspire memories for years to come. The holidays, in particular, are a natural time to embrace Asia’s penchant for spiritual reflection and unique, vibrant festivals.

This month, Asia Transpacific Journeys was included in Travel + Leisure’s 2014 A-List, yearly roundup of the nation’s most passionate, knowledgeable and experienced travel professionals. This year, two of the company’s top Travel Specialists were awarded this coveted honor. For the fourth year running, Rebecca Mazzaro was acknowledged for her unsurpassed expertise in planning trips to Burma and, for the third time, Jarrod Hobson was recognized for his wealth of knowledge about Indonesia.

For those interested in Buddhist traditions, lush landscapes and welcoming local people, Laos paves the way for an awe-inspiring wintertime journey. Bun Pha Wet is an annual Buddhist holiday celebrating the incarnation of the Buddha as the Prince Vessantara, an embodiment of perfect charity and compassion. In temples, monks recite the story of Prince Vessantra from sacred palm-leaf books accompanied by traditional rituals, dance and dramatic performances.

If you cannot bear the thought of the holidays without snow, Asia is not off the table. Venture to Harbin, China in January for the International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival. A spectacle of epic proportions, during this one-month long exhibition giant ice sculptures and snow castle are displayed in and around the city. Lit at night with traditional lanterns and contemporary light displays, a wander around frozen, glittering Harbin brings a whole new meaning to “winter wonderland.”

However one prefers to celebrate the holidays, Asia offers a unique opportunity to step outside of the ordinary and celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or a traditional local holiday or festival with unhampered joy and enthusiasm. Of course, Asia can also be a perfect place to get away from it all after the hectic holiday season at home.

Asia Transpacific Journeys, www.AsiaTranspacific.com