Spotlight on East & Southeast Asia
Asia has become one of ISP’s most in-demand regions, especially for Executive and Professional MBA groups.
With strong academic partners, world-class cultural experiences and seamless logistics, our Asia team has designed programs for groups of every size, from boutique cohorts to groups of 80+ participants. In 2025, nearly 60% of all Asia programs were built for MBA, EMBA and PMBA cohorts, proving the region’s unmatched relevance for advanced learners and professionals.
To get started, check out the University of California, Irvine’s trip to Singapore and witness their experience firsthand…
Why East & Southeast Asia for Experiential Learning in 2026/27?
Asia is projected to drive nearly 60% of global GDP growth in the coming years, making it the epicenter of economic transformation. Nowhere is this more visible than in Southeast Asia. The region’s unique mix of developing and advanced economies, vibrant industries, and seamless connections makes it ideal for EMBA, PMBA and graduate programs.
Groups gain direct exposure to markets undergoing rapid shifts: innovation ecosystems, supply-chain transformation, cross-border trade and regulatory change. Not forgetting, participants connect with culture at every turn, sharpening adaptability and global leadership skills.
Breakdown of ISP groups visiting East Asia in 2025
Top Destinations in the Region
Vietnam – A blend of academic depth and cultural immersion that fits every type of group.
Singapore – The global hub for innovation, finance and sustainability.
Japan – A blend of tradition and cutting-edge business, particularly in Tokyo.
South Korea – Dynamic innovation, k-culture, emerging start-ups and corporate links.
Taiwan – A rising star, with booming trade and innovation ecosystems.
Thailand – Newly emerging as an impactful destination for ISP programs.
Dual Destination Power
Dual-destination programs are one of the most impactful ways to experience East & Southeast Asia. These combinations allow students to compare developed and emerging economies side-by-side, amplifying learning outcomes and maximising the experience. In 2025:
20% of programs combined two different countries (e.g. Ho Chi Minh City & Singapore; Taipei & Tokyo).
38% of programs combined two cities within one country (e.g. Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City; Tokyo & Kyoto; Seoul & Busan).
Groups have even expanded to three destinations across three countries, proving how seamless travel is in the region.
2025 single vs double destinations in East Asia.
Browse a Sample Itinerary
Explore how two dynamic Asian cities contrast and connect. From scavenger hunts and tea tastings in Taipei to innovation tours, startup labs, and cultural deep dives in Singapore. Download the sample itinerary for highlights in culture, business and hands-on learning.
Trending topics in the region
AI & Automation
New Work Trends
Innovation & Culture
Startups
Supply Chains
Get inspired
Watch Snapshot videos highlighting a few of our Asia destinations
Meet Our Asia Team
With over a decade at ISP, our Unit Manager for Asia, Ivana Motylova, has seen firsthand how impactful these programs can be. Drawing on the expertise of one of ISP’s largest and most experienced teams, she shares how working across Asia has shaped hundreds of successful programs — connecting institutions with transformative experiences and leaving a lasting mark on students and faculty alike.
“These destinations really are living classrooms, mix vibrant culture with rapidly evolving industries and you’re bound to spark new ideas, connections and opportunities for student growth. In my 15 years working at ISP, I can definitely say participants get a transformative experience with every trip in the continent.”
Grace Lu - Senior Program Manager at International Study Programs
Which destination do you want to explore?
We’re ready to assist with any inquiries or questions you might have.
*Please note that we cater directly to universities and academic institutions. If you’re a student inspired by what we do, feel free to forward us on to your faculty! But we do not enroll students openly to our trips.
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Plan where to travel next
Access our complete guide to 2026! Stay ahead of the curve and explore the trends that are shaping next year, which cities our experts recommend and exclusive tips from our team.
