What should be a pleasant trip from point A to point B can get interesting in some of the most congested places in Asia

Asia is known for many tourist delights, including pristine beaches, warm, accommodating people, and cultural sites that you would never believe exist.

But before you can get to all these pleasant things, you will have to come to terms with a country’s road conditions, traffic regulation, and of course, local drivers. And sometimes, the horrendous trip is simply something you did not sign up for.

Metro Manila, Philippines

Breaking Asia Rating for Manila Traffic: 4 STARS (Hold On To Your Hats)

Arriving at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport will mean you will have to contend with EDSA – the massive highway that connects several cities within the metro. Described as “Mega Manila” by global commentators because it is the seat of government and commerce, Manila traffic conditions are anything but pleasant.

The congestion of roads is horrific, you will see massive vehicles swerving in and out of their designated lanes like they never took proper driving classes. This is also the case for a large percentage of drivers in the Philippines.

While some from the middle class can afford driving classes, the majority of drivers in the country are self-taught or taught by family or friends who also know very little about safe, defensive driving.

Beijing, China

Breaking Asia Rating for Beijing Traffic: 5 STARS (Prepare For Eternity)

Beijing is a record holder for both consistent road congestion and poor air quality throughout the city. Current stats show that traveling through Beijing will result in 46% additional travel time, up by eight percent from last year’s statistics. Beijing currently ranks number 10 worldwide in terms of severe road congestion.

Among the top reasons why Beijing is such a driver’s nightmare are: there are just too many people on the road, people buy cars as a sign of social status, people are not getting proper driver education, and younger drivers are simply not good at driving while out in the city. Take note that congestion is common throughout China, especially in the larger cities where commerce and industries are located.