Asia beckons. Tourism and western investment there is on the rise, and U.S. CEOs say it would be their second most-visited destination this year, after Britain. Are you ready?

Thanks to increased foreign travel to Asia, international-standard hotels now exist in virtually every major city, and roads and airports have improved by leaps and bounds. But while it's easier to get around, there remains plenty of room for culture clash and business mistakes. Here are a few tips for first-timers:

China
China's relationship with the world has changed immensely over the past three decades, and the country's longtime isolation means that most Chinese people may not understand other cultures. Respect their culture and traditions, be flexible, and you'll have a truly unforgettable time.

DON'T bring up certain topics like Sino-Japanese relations (never compare China and Japan), Taiwan, Tibet, The Falun Gong, and religious and human rights in general, the events in Tiananmen Square of 1989, anything disparaging about Chinese cleanliness or manners, and The Cultural Revolution.

DON'T embarrass people, or lose your composure with anger or other emotion, particularly in front of strangers. Anger costs face on both sides, and it won't get you anywhere.

DON'T tip. The law of the land is no tipping whatsoever. Fine hotels add in a compulsory service fee of 10-20 percent, nothing is expected or allowed beyond that. If you do tip, do so quietly and out of sight. Exceptions, be sure to tip luggage porters and at massage houses

Japan
Rules may appear rigid, but as in all cultures, etiquette is a tool used to help avoid confrontation and upsets. Age, seniority, honor and understanding subtext are some of the most important aspects of Japanese culture, but the Japanese are generally tolerant of mistakes made by foreigners in this regard.

DO sit on the floor with legs tucked underneath. If this is not possible, any comfortable position will do provided the bottoms of the feet are not pointing at anyone.

DO bow upon meeting to express thanks. The head is considered the most important part of the body, and by bowing, the Japanese show respect. However, most Japanese understand that foreigners do not bow, and a simple nod is acceptable. Learn how to bow.

DO tip - Japan is largely a non-tipping society but tour guides, private drivers, room attendants, and cab drivers may appreciate a tip, but only in yen.

DON'T publicly disgrace or humiliate someone in Japan. This dishonor will only serve to humiliate and shame you both.

DON'T talk loudly.

Thailand

DO leave a little bit of food on your plate when you're done eating to indicate that you are full.

DON'T use your left hand while eating.

DO give and receive gifts with your right hand, not your left. Don’t open a gift until later.

DO understand the meaning of the "wai." Wai is when a person puts their hands together close to their body at chest level and gives a slight bow. The higher the hands, the more respectful the wai. It can mean "Hello", "I'm sorry", "Good-bye" or “thank You”.

DON'T show affection in public or even touch someone of the opposite sex.

DON'T pass something over someone's head. The head is considered sacred in Thailand.

DON'T point with your feet or use your feet to touch something. Feet are considered dirty, because they are the lowest part of the body.

DO leave a tip in all restaurants. Leave the tip with your change leftover from the bill, or tip 10% at a more upscale restaurant. Tip a cab driver by rounding up your total fare.