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Southeast Asia Countries to Explore

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Philippines

Discover the splendour of ‘SOUTH EAST ASIA’ with Dook Book from our exceptional range of South East Asia Tour Packages and gear up for a journey never experienced before! This region that is compressed between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean has long been a desired choice for the world including the curious backpackers and solace seekers. With its just perfect beaches, major cities draped in both rich history and modernity, unmatchable cuisines with assorted influences, the spiritual spaces not worth missing in this one lifetime, low prices and incredible air connections, travelling through the countries of South East Asia makes your travelling thirst even more intense. With so much to see and do in the region that is packed with nothing but awesomeness, it's almost impossible to keep its wonders off the bucket list. Heavily reliant on tourism, South East Asia comprises a group of diverse countries that feature an eclectic mix of indigenous cultures, ruins of lost civilizations, present-day marvels, friendly locals found nowhere else and so much more. Instead of castles and churches, you’ll find remarkable ancient temples; instead of snowy temperatures, you’ll find most of the places submersed in a favourable tropical climate. You may also find a lot of luxurious five-star hotel chains to stay in other parts of the world but nothing beats the stays in South East Asia that typically feature the remotest spots in hills or inside the rainforests and a few others that are surrounded by palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves and serene sights and sounds. In a nutshell, the countries here are abounding with anything and everything. Be it the majestic Angkor Wat in Cambodia, awesome beaches and nightlife of Thailand, the chic shopping complexes in Singapore, the oh-so-good food of Malaysia, the UNESCO listed natural wonder Ha Long Bay in Vietnam, the chocolate hills of the Philippines or the soul-satisfying sight of Indonesia’s rice terraces, you will be truly enchanted. Meanwhile, the lesser-visited gems like Laos and Brunei aren’t short of surprises either. While the former is famous for Luang Prabang and various adventure-packed activities, the latter has interesting sites like the largest water village in the world and night markets. The countries of South East Asia also appeal to active, thrill-seeking travellers, who like to trek through steamy jungles or the challenging volcano hiking trails, dive deep into some of the world’s best coral reefs, camp along the river or go rafting on the gushing rivers. But the comfort seekers are generously rewarded too! You can also lazily spend your days hopping around the islands, drinking and dancing the night away on the beaches and enjoying all the in-betweens like eating delicious street food, shopping from the streets like never before or doing just nothing.    Want to feel the warmth of more than one Southeast Asian destination on a fantastic South East Asia Tour ? Our travel specialists at Dook can help plan your holiday as an individual custom-made trip or incorporate all in the special South East Asia Holiday Packages to match your preferences. Have a look at our existing South East Asia Tour Packages from India and get yours tailor-made. Explore the captivating countries of South East Asia: As one of the first parts of the world that opened doors for tourism and prospered subsequently, South East Asia will always be a little more special than other corners of the globe. And it is easy to believe why! Whereas the majority of South East Asian countries rely on their rich natural assets and historical marvels to appeal to tourists, they also tend to be warmly open through competitive prices and visa policies. While some countries in the region like Laos and Myanmar remain more elusive and off the usual touristy path, the other top favourites like Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia continue to pull in the crowds, year on year. This allows the visitors a golden chance for both- either to go with the masses and see the ‘most famous’ or take out time to take the roads less travelled while discovering the newer corners of the region. Whatever you set your heart on, Dook will make sure you visit the best destinations in South East Asia . Our South East Asia Travel Packages offer a bit of everything you had imagined in an ideal fun-filled South East Asia Tour .   1. Thailand: If you have ever wanted to visit a place that’s pleasingly tropical, exotic, refreshing, cultural yet ultra-modern, Thailand truly is that place to be. Amongst all the South Asian tourist-friendly countries, Thailand stands by far the topmost vacation choice for millions and the reasons credited to this fame are aplenty. Well-developed with all the modern comforts, easy on the pocket yet lavishly designed, wild enough to cater to the adventurers’ wanderlust and charming enough to take your breath away, Thailand is indeed a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.   While the tourists have strolled in and around the popular Phuket and Bangkok over the years, there are striking gems like Koh Samui, Ayutthaya and Krabi that have grabbed the unwavering attention of travellers lately. Explore beyond the usual vibes of the cities while you head out to enjoy the full moon parties, remotest beaches, the traditional floating markets, rich wildlife and national parks and you’ll know why one can never get tired of being overwhelmed by the sights and sounds of this exotic kingdom. With its endless exciting energy and so much fabulousness surrounding culture and adventure, Thailand justifiably tops the chart of bucket-list destinations for many people around the world.   On the wander-list: Wat Arun, Chatuchak Weekend Market, The Grand Palace, Ayutthaya, China Town, Pattaya, Coral Island, Chiang Mai, Phi-Phi Islands, Patong Beach, Krabi (Ao Nang and Railay Beach), Phetchaburi, Sukhothai and more.   2. Vietnam: This full-of-surprises destination is one of Southeast Asia's most fascinating countries to travel to and if you ask why the list is probably endless. The dramatic landscapes and otherworldly backdrops, verdant rice terraces carved into sharp hills, the budding cities and their high-on-energy vibes, fascinating history, appetizing food, absurdly beautiful temples and what not. It is crammed full of culture yet advancing just like other modern countries; it is bustling yet full of exceptionally serene places that are sure to stir up all your senses; it is beautiful and definitely the one not worth missing. Once a lesser-known destination, Vietnam today has gained fame as another top ‘must-visit destination’ in South East Asia , given the fact that people have started to notice its natural and cultural diversity. Even though the travellers have widely heard of the famous five (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An and Hue), they would be surprised to know that the country offers much more than that. There is delicious street food, the limestone islands, war-torn history, mausoleums, massive caves and rivers, beaches that are sprinkled around the country’s amazing corners.   Wanting to visit this incredible country? Get in touch with our experts to know more about our South East Asia Tour Packages .   On the wander-list: Ha Long Bay, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoa Lo Prison and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hue city and Cu Chi Tunnels, War Remnants Museum, Mekong Delta, Hoi An and more. 3. Singapore: Buzzing with glitz, activities and vibrancy throughout the day and night, Singapore is another top Southeast Asian country that deserves a spot on every bucket list. Unique in its way, Singapore is modern and cosmopolitan while it proudly boasts its lavish shopping centres, it's ‘so-chic’ hotels as well a perfect mix of natural and man-made attractions. It was once a sleepy fishing town that today proudly stands as the most advanced and impressive tourist country in the world. Thanks to unique establishments like Marina Bay Sands, a multi-entertainment luxury complex and resort, the popularity of Singapore has increased further over the years. It is not just the façade of this masterpiece but its versatility as a major attraction because apart from being a resort, it also encompasses a museum, has art-science exhibits and unbeatable city views from the infinity pool on the roof. Another similar example is Sentosa Island which has a spectacular crescent-shaped beach and a restored coastal fort along with South East Asia's first 4D theatre and even everyone’s favourite Universal Studios Singapore theme park. Shopping is another thing that keeps you happily occupied here as you’ll find everything- from duty-free goods to designer outfits and accessories to cheap goodies and souvenirs that you can find in a street hawker bazaar. Interestingly, Singapore is also home to the best airport in the world, the world's tallest indoor waterfall, an indoor garden, colossal butterfly garden and is famous for great culinary adventures and even the live art on streets.   Looks too much to cover in a single itinerary? Leave your worries about planning an integrated Singapore tour to us. Book from our range of South East Asia Travel Packages and you’ll thank us later!   On the wander-list: Gardens by the Bay, The Arab Street, Little India, Underwater World, River Safari, Sentosa Island, Chinatown, Universal Studios, Singapore Flyer, Changi Beach, Bukit Batok Hill and more. 4. Indonesia: If there is one country in the entire South East Asia that looks straight-up the most photogenic place, it is Indonesia . Generously painted on Mother Nature’s canvas, this country is naturally appealing as well as culturally rich. With deep jungles and palm-fringed landscapes distributed over 17,000 islands, it’s no surprise that Indonesia also boasts some of the best beaches in the region and therefore, island hopping becomes the most-enjoyed activity here offering an additional slice of delight to those looking for sunbathing, surfing or deep-sea diving. On the cultural front, you will find hordes of attractions with colonial influences and religious importance. Then there are these beautifully gliding rice fields and dramatic volcanic mountains that adorn the country’s landscape and are too hard to ignore. All this and more, make Indonesia a huge playground of incredible attractions worth exploring. People usually start their Indonesia tour from Bali to explore its white sand beaches and volcanic shores, vivid Hindu culture, delectable food and spectacular landscapes. But opting for the deep jungles of Borneo or shopping in Ubud or maybe clicking refreshing pictures against the backdrop of Tanah Lot Temple isn’t a bad idea either. There is much more that lies ahead in Indonesia and you must escape the mundane routine to thoroughly enjoy this wonderful corner of South East Asia. Add all your bucket-list favourites to the Southeast Asia Tour Packages that you book with Dook and check-in for an amazing Indonesia tour ahead!   On the wander-list: Mount Bromo, Rajah Ampat, temples of Borobudur, Tanjung Puting National Park, Tana Toraja, Lombok, Komodo National Park, Ubud, Kuta and Nusa Dua beaches, Gili Islands and more.   5. Malaysia: One country that is a giant collage of cultures, elegance, exuberance and countryside surprises, it is without a doubt Malaysia , also rightly entitled with a tag- ‘Truly Asia’. One of the crowning jewels of the region, Malaysia is the most frequented destination preferred globally. It is a country where the striking contrasts, languages and cultures fuse perfectly. It is here where you will see a remarkable coastline and islands kissed by the sun, damp rainforests of Borneo swarming with rare wildlife, age-old architecture blending well with cultures and the cool highlands and tropical getaways complementing well with the thriving cities and multicultural towns. With all this and more, Malaysia truly stands out as a unique nation that’s quite distinct from any of its neighbouring South East Asian Countries.   The first name that hits the mind while talking about Malaysia is mostly ‘ Kuala Lumpur ’. Set in the heart of the country, Kuala Lumpur is a worthwhile destination, popular for its busy and boisterous vibe. Bustling bazaars, huge malls, chic rooftop bars, bright temples, soaring skyscrapers, live singers performing on the streets, aromatic food lanes- you will see it all in this capital city. But Malaysia is more than just KL. There are highlands where you can head to beat the city heat and then there are several beaches catering to the preferences of leisure and adventure seekers. For a dazzling spectacle of nature, do visit and see loads of fireflies along the river in Kuala Selangor or go for a rendezvous with the playful orang-utans at Semenggoh Nature Reserve. Wondering if the country has any historic places? There are the towns of Penang and Melaka that add antiquated charm to the country. Whatever you ask for, Malaysia doesn’t fall short of exciting options for you to explore.   On the wander-list: Petronas Twin Towers, Selangor (Batu Caves), Johor Bahru, Bukit Bintang street, Genting Highlands, Cameron Highlands, Melaka (Old Town), Ipoh, Kota Kinabalu, Tioman Island, The Perhentian Islands, Langkawi, George Town and more.   6. Cambodia: An underrated country whose overall progress was once hauled by the years of tragic war history and destruction, Cambodia today is counted on top amongst the tourism hotspots of Asia. As soon as Cambodia was able to prominently pin itself on the tourism map, the people started to take note of its USPs, one being its temples that were lauded for architectural brilliance and another it's coastal towns that lured travellers from far and wide. Add to that the secluded beaches, the Cambodian floating villages, Phnom Penh’s museums, the hospitable Khmer people and it’ll be easier to fall in love with this country.   Whether you are up for watching in awe the sunset over amazing Angkor Wat or the classic ruins of Ta Prohm, exploring the temple of Preah Vihear, discovering the cafes and art galleries abounding the cities or exploring the natural wonders like the Yeak Lom Crater Lake, in Cambodia, you’ll be tempted to ask for more.   On the wander-list: Siem Reap near the Angkor, Phnom Penh, Kampot. Kep, Cardamom Mountain region, Battambang, killing fields of Choeung Ek, Kratie, Tonle Sap Lake, Yeak Lom Crater Lake and more. 7. Philippines: There are a plethora of reasons why the Philippines’ official tourism slogan is mentioned as “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” and each one is well worth revealing. This irresistibly beautiful country is an archipelago comprising over 7400 islands that are bejewelled over the Pacific Ocean while its long coastline adorns the beaches on the way. Naturally blessed with remote coral reefs, magnificent underground rivers and limestone caves, lofty volcanoes, underwater wrecks and unspoilt jungles, the Philippines is undeniably a perfect destination to spend your relaxing vacation in. Talking particularly about its beaches that are unlike others in the world, the Philippines is truly blessed. While the top favourites include Boracay, Palawan, El Nido and Siargao, there are a few others that are unique in every possible way-featuring shades of pink, white or beige to even black. The Philippines is also home to some of the unusual natural wonders like Chocolate Hills and the UNESCO recognised Banaue Rice Terraces that are impossible to ignore. Looking for other reasons to find your portion of fun here? The country is gorgeous, it is cheap, it is easy to get around, the locals are warm and welcoming, there are hordes of yummy seafood and once here, you are free to choose between respite and adventure as the Philippines caters well to both the segments. And this is just scratching the surface; this country is much more than being described in just two descriptive paragraphs. On the wander-list: Boracay, Palawan Island, Manila, island of Bohol, Cebu Island, Banaue Ethnic Village and rice terraces, Sagada, Coron Island, El Nido, Siargao and more. Top Bucket List Experiences in South East Asia: Planning to embark on an experiential South East Asia tour soon? Here, we will help you jot down every Instagram-worthy bucket list experience in the region comes with a ‘do-not-miss’ notice: ● Tour the rice paddies and scenic villages in Sapa, Vietnam ● Take a short walk in the Old Quarter of Hanoi ● Enjoy the slow pace of life while taking in the history in Hoi An ● Flow lazily among the limestone islands and islets of Ha Long Bay ● Try the famed Vietnamese Egg Coffee and Bun Cha in Hanoi ● Surrender to the soothing vibes of Gili Islands, Indonesia ● Sip the civet coffee in Bali while witnessing its unusual manufacturing ● Visit the ancient temple of Borobudur near Yogyakarta ● Hike up to Mount Bromo and see the magnificent surrounding views ● Go underwater diving in Raja Ampat, Indonesia ● Ditch the crowds of Angkor Wat, visit Banteay Chhmar in Cambodia instead ● Take in the spectacular sights, smells and sounds of the night markets in Phnom Penh, Cambodia ● Explore the hidden gems and less-explored sites of Cambodia on a bike ● Say cheers to the local Angkor beer in Cambodia ● Don’t miss the sunset at Wat Arun, Thailand ● Treat yourself to an authentic and relaxing Thai massage ● Try classic Thai street food in Bangkok, Thailand ● Experience the bright and happy vibes of the Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai ● Relax or re energize on Thailand’s amazing beaches ● Go scuba diving or kayaking in the Phi Phi Islands ● Gape in awe at the mountain contours of Ifugao Rice Terraces, Philippines ● Capture the postcard-perfect beauty of Palawan ● Swim along with the whale sharks in Leyte, Philippines ● Hit the Philippines’ popular beach town- El Nido ● Jump off Boracay’s famous diving spot, Ariel’s Point ● Visit Malaysia during Hari Raya Aidilfitri ● Stuff yourself with some amazing Malaysian Street Food ● Trek through Cameron Highlands’ picturesque tea plantations ● Appreciate the street art in George Town ● Sip a cocktail on a rooftop bar set against the iconic Petronas Towers ● Hop between the heritage houses and cafes in Melaka ● See everything in Sentosa Island, Singapore ● Get clicked in front of the colourful Gardens by the Bay      Dook takes you closest to real good travel experiences across South East Asia. Why wait? Book a tour today! Whether you crave to float across the sky in an air balloon or cruise along a picturesque riverbank, taste the local Asian delights or spot the hidden temples, there is a surplus of activities all across South East Asia. Luckily, Dook has an endless list of all these and more to make your trip memorable. Choose your desired South East Asia country or let us know your destination preferences to integrate the perfect South East Asia Tour Packages for you. We will help you pick and tailor-make the South East Asia Holiday Packages according to your preferences and budget so that we design a more intrepid trip for you.

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South East Asia Tour Packages

The South Asian realm of experiences traced in different horizons, only to surprise the travellers since the beginning of time.

The first international getaway for most Indian travellers, South East Asia is adorned with a great coherence of history, ancient culture, modern luxurious living, spirituality and religion fused with modern lifestyle and vibrant nightlife. South East Asia is a destination which can be decided upon and travelled to, at any given point of time. South East Asia tour packages reflect the colourful and vibrant culture of this land and display a perfect irony of coexisting together in harmony! 

Here at Veena World, we handcraft some of the most incredible and must-have experiences in our South East Asia tour packages. This pleasant homely atmosphere in an international destination can be felt along with our tailor made South East Asia packages from India. Abundant natural beauty, breath-taking landscapes, magnificent monasteries, ancient Buddhist temples, fluttering prayer flags and a completely enchanting experience awaits you at the South East Asian land of mysteries. Be a part of an unforgettable travel story with us and relish our legacy to travel, explore and celebrate life!

South East Asia Travel Packages

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(25 apr 2024) last 5 seats, veena world tour reviews, what are you waiting for chalo bag bharo nikal pado, best of vietnam upcoming tour dates.

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South East Asia Frequently Asked Questions

We help you prepare for your trip and ensure an effortless and enjoyable travel experience.

What visa do I need for a South-East Asia trip?

It depends on the countries that are being covered under your South-East Asia tour packages. While most south-eastern countries offer a Visa on Arrival facility, it is always best that you check the visa requirements of all the destinations in your itinerary well in time, so you can have all the documents prepared and ready for getting a visa on arrival and can apply for a visa beforehand for countries that don’t have the facility. With Veena World’s South-East Asia tour packages, you can opt for visa assistance, where all you need to do is furnish the documents required, and we will manage the rest for you.

Is it safe to travel through South-East Asia?

Yes. South-East Asia is an incredibly safe region for all kinds of travellers, including backpackers, solo, and female travellers. Tourism is an important industry for many south-east Asian countries, so there are also several special provisions made by the governments of these countries to ensure the safety of travellers on South-East Asia tour packages. However, it is always a good idea to maintain vigilance, especially in crowded places when travelling and to follow basic travel safety precautions.

How much does it cost to travel to South-East Asia?

It depends on a number of factors like the number of places you plan to visit on your South-East Asia tour, the duration of the trip, the type of accommodation you are booking, the mode of travel, etc. With Veena World, you can book the most suitable South-East Asia tour with ease, based on your budget and travel plans.

What is the best country to visit in Southeast Asia?

The plethora of countries that can be covered in a South-East Asia trip all have different, yet amazing, experiences to offer tourists. So, if you’re having trouble picking the destinations you want to include in your South-East Asia trip, check out the experiences and attractions the countries offer and tailor your plan accordingly. For example, choose Indonesia for a relaxing vacation, Brunei for solo trips, Laos for eco-tourism and adventure, and so on.

How long should I stay in each South-East Asian country?

That depends completely on you. Every country that you include in your South-East Asia trip has something unique to offer and based on what you plan to do and the kind of vacation you are planning, you can vary the time you spend in each destination.

Which are the best places to visit in Southeast Asia?

From stunning beaches to verdant jungles, famous wildlife sanctuaries to ancient temples, charming old towns to vibrant metropolitans, South-East Asia vacation packages have a lot to offer. Some of the most sought-after tourist destinations include Kuala Lumpur, the Phi Phi Islands, Siem Reap, Cambodia, Singapore, etc. While planning a trip, you can pick the places you want to cover, depending on your interests. Then, you can explore our extensive range of South-East Asia vacation packages for a hassle-free experience.

How do I plan a trip through South-East Asia?

The best way to plan a trip through Sough-East Asia in a hassle-free manner is by booking one of Veena World’s all-inclusive South-East Asia travel packages. All our packages have been specially curated to deliver an exemplary experience to all kinds of travellers. All you need to do is book a suitable package based on your travel plans and budget and sit back and relax as we take care of all the arrangements for your trip.

What is the best time of the year to go to South-East Asia?

The climate varies significantly across the region of South-East Asia, making it a year-round travel destination. So, the best time for booking South-East Asia tour packages from India mainly depends on which country you want to visit and the activities you want to do. That being said, the time between November and February is quite suitable for most destinations in South-East Asia. Around this time, the weather is perfect for sightseeing and for indulging in several outdoor activities as well.

What is the best way to travel to South-East Asia?

The best way to plan a fun-filled vacation to South-East Asia is with an all-inclusive tour package from Veena World. This way, you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest while leaving the planning to us. You can choose from our range of South-East Asia group tours, solo trips, family vacations, honeymoon packages, etc. based on your travel plans. 

Do you provide Customised Holidays to South-East Asia?

Yes. If you want a more personalised experience for your South-East Asia trip, you can opt for Customised Holidays by Veena World, where you get to decide all aspects of your trip based on your preferences. You have the flexibility to choose things like the duration of the trip, the places you want to cover, the type of accommodations you wish to book, the day-to-day itinerary, etc. This way, you can ensure you enjoy your trip your way.

Get to know more about South East Asia before booking your tour packages

South East Asia continued to retain its rich culture & tradition and at the same time, worked hard upon modernisation in terms of infrastructure as well as in the field of entertainment. The entire world has accepted South East Asia’s tourism invitation with open arms because it is such a fascinating combination of beautiful coastlines, lush green jungles, rich cultural heritage and vibrant fun loving people. Apart from all this, it has also emerged as a shopaholic’s delight since there are a large number of state-of-the-art malls, shopping streets and vibrant markets here. South East Asia occupies a special place in the hearts of most Indian tourists since it is the first foreign trip ever, for most travellers! Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong & Macau are thus the perennially successful artists of South East Asia. So, if you wish to have a whale of a time with your family then blindly select any of these places because there will never be a paucity of enjoyable experiences while you are here. Your choice stands as our priority, may it be for adventure or for leisure, for some special reason like honeymoon or just a short escape travel, for a desire to travel alone or with family and all of it is made possible with Veena World!

Truly a destination for people who are looking for every kind of experience, because this land is known to have them all! South East Asia is thereby observed to be the first choice of an international travel destination for most Indian travellers. Its rich culture and relaxed tropical islands make our South East Asia packages from India, a favourite choice of honeymooners. Veena World has a focus of innovating and building unrivalled tours. We bring together everything best available, for a one of a kind memory and travel story that can be shared with your loved ones. South East Asia is an all year round destination with so much to offer every time that travelling here just once wouldn’t be enough! Raise your spirits for one of the most affordable and memorable trips with Veena World!

The Geography and Seasons

On a geographical aspect, South East Asia is comprised of all those countries which are situated in an area to the east of India, south of China and to the north of Australia. Due to its geographical location, this land is blessed with tropical climate which is very similar to India. This pleasant, homely atmosphere in an international destination can be felt along with your life partner with our tailor made South East Asia honeymoon packages from India. This land geographically has everything; right from mountains to blue waters, also islands and cities. South East Asia holiday packages available online include this perfect combination of the land’s unique topology.

The Culture

History depicts that this region was one of the most sought after regions by the Europeans for its spices & it gave them a unique opportunity to expand their territories. Ultimately, after escaping the clutches of these European nations, the countries of South East Asia today, compete head to head against those of Europe in the field of tourism. The colourful and vibrant culture of this land displays a perfect irony of coexisting together in harmony! The notable dominance of Buddhism and the echoing materialistic modernism are remarkable contrasts existing together which can be felt in every corner of Thailand. People here are very homely and welcoming! Being a country of islands, it has a prominent beach culture. Tradition here, is a mixture of many cultures of the world put together and our South East Asia holiday packages let you witness this very aspect of the land!

The Experience

Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong & Macao are thus the perennially successful artists of South East Asia. If you wish to have a whale of a time with your family then blindly select any of these places because there will never be a paucity of enjoyable experiences while you are here. The melting pot of different cultures, cuisines and architectural styles; amazing amusement and wildlife parks; wonderful shopping avenues, outlying neighbourhoods; unmatched cleanliness; South East Asia is not only culturally drifting but also morally uplifting. The organised development of this land is noteworthy. A trip here is very homely yet awakening as it has a lot to teach every soul that steps in here. Experience a divine getaway that is adorned with a great coherence of history and ancient culture fused with humble living, spirituality and an intriguing lifestyle in Vietnam Cambodia. Explore the unique blend of influences which combines true multicultural modernity in destinations such as Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Macao. When it comes to honeymooners’ delight, South East Asia has exceptionally beautiful options to offer, right from islands of Thailand, turquoise lands of Bali and stunning arrays of Singapore!

The Highlights

Thailand with its famous Thai massages with state of the art theme parks has become a personal favourite of many. It seems as if Singapore has vowed to create a new tourist attraction every year. Malaysia has adopted the ’Truly Asia’ tagline which is reflected in its traditional food preparations. Macao, South East Asia’s first European colony & also the last to secure freedom, is now a fantasy land of casinos. Hong Kong is taking giant strides in the world of business, popular all over the world as a country of sky scrapers. Bali is famous among tourists as the ‘Island of Gods’. Vietnam has even opened up its war ruins through the Cu Chi tunnels for tourists along with the naturally beautiful Halong Bay. The Angkor Wat temple built by artisans in the 12th century is a globally popular tourist attraction located in Cambodia. It is an awesome place for the ones who are fascinated with ancient relics & structures. Philippines has welcomed tourists with almost all types of natural tourist attractions, right from paddy fields to volcanoes. Fortunately, South East Asian countries are hale, heart, warm & pleasant almost through the year, light years away from the icy cold weather! This makes them a popular tourist destination throughout the year. While traversing South East Asia, one thus gets to experience many such relatable factors which arouses a sense of belonging in our hearts.

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Southeast Asia

From cruises along the Perfume River in Hué, through the klongs of Bangkok, and on Siem Reap's Tonle Sap Lake... to the temples of Angkor... as you marvel at the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok... our Southeast Asia tours immerse you in a destination that truly personifies exotic travel.

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Welcome to Southeast Asia

Marvel at the rich tapestry of Southeast Asia... it's ancient temples, palaces, and picturesque villages... shrouded by the mists of time and the impenetrable rainforests. From the patchworks of rice paddies to ethereal mountains and colonial cities... these lands entice with understated beauty.

Discovering the incredible legacies of civilizations past in cambodia.

One of Cambodia's greatest treasures, the fabled archaeological site at Angkor covers an area twice the size of New York's Manhattan Island! This UNESCO World Heritage Site – which you'll visit on your Cambodian travels with Tauck – contains hundreds of temples and palaces built by the Khmer people between the 9th and 15th centuries, all shrouded by jungle until the 19th century. Its wonders include the vast, 12th-century Angkor Wat temple, a significant religious center through the ages, with walls covered by inspiring bas-reliefs and devatas (guardian spirits); the walled city of Angkor Thom, home to the richly decorated Bayon Temple and the Elephant Terrace; and fascinating Ta Prohm Temple, originally a Buddhist university and monastery, now enveloped by centuries-old jungle roots and vines, and virtually a part of the dense rainforest that surrounds it.

A land of contrasts with a history of conflicts and strong cultural traditions... experience today's Vietnam with Tauck

Currently experiencing a period of peace and stability after decades of colonialism and conflict, Vietnam is a nation of contrasts, with a long and often turbulent history, and strong cultural traditions that have endured for centuries. Exploring today's Vietnam with Tauck – both in the countryside and in cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), Hué, Da Nang and Hoi An – you'll discover poignant reminders of war, like the Cu Chi Tunnels and the notorious Hoa Lo Prison… witness the legacy of peace as you visit a kindergarten in Da Nang… enjoy an enchanting water puppet performance, an art form unique to Vietnam and popular since the 18th century... and experience life along the country's historic waterways on an overnight cruise among the limestone islets of Vietnam's majestic Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known in local legend as the "Bay of the Descending Dragons."

The ancient and the modern (and more) in Thailand

Thailand is an intriguing mix of the ancient and the modern, the futuristically urban and the traditionally rural, the dizzying whirl of contemporary life and the tranquility of the ages… all of which you'll experience when you visit with Tauck. Nowhere are these contrasts more evident than in the remarkable capital city, Bangkok… home to some of the most stunningly modern architecture in the world… centuries-old palaces and temples sheltering Buddhas from Emerald to Giant to Reclining… and the klongs, the bustling canals where much of the city's daily life takes place. Elsewhere, in countryside villages outside the city of Chiang Mai, the people of the region's rural hill tribes observe traditional ways of life; each has its own language, customs and crafts, and is happy to share them with visitors like you.

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Cultural Journeys Amidst Lost Civilizations

Personifying exotic travel, our journeys throughout Southeast Asia check "dream destination" off of any travelers bucket list... in Singapore with its otherworldly skyline... in the tropical paradise known as Bali... and in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos on a unique exploration of the history, culture and religion of Indochina.

Indochina: vietnam, cambodia & laos, vietnam, cambodia & thailand, traveling with tauck, never settle for ordinary.

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South East Asia Tours & Vacations

Frenetic yet tranquil, modern yet traditional, sweet yet spicy – South East Asia is the best of everything wrapped up in one tidy package.

A place where natural beauty, sleepless cities, taste-bud-tingling cuisine and wondrous wildlife collide. It’s here, amongst this cluster of captivating countries, that you can honestly say there’s something for everyone. From devouring banh mi at a street food stall in Hanoi to cycling through the green hills of Ubud . Interacting with the local Batak tribe living on Palawan to visiting the world’s first elephant hospital in Chiang Mai . We dare you to discover South East Asia and be able to leave not already craving more. 

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Three kinds of wow: Twitching in Vietnam

Time and place: Hanoi Old Quarter Market, 5 pm

Creative Cities: Hanoi

Travel globally and think locally with Intrepid leader San Tao

Slow drip: Vietnamese coffee culture

Follow the leader: Tu Vu will never stop learning about Vietnam

Saying yes with Intrepid leader, Huyen Nguyen

 Vun Art: Changing lives in Vietnam one scrap at a time

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South east asia travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

What countries are a part of South East Asia?

The region of South East Asia encompasses the following countries:

Philippines

Timor-Leste

Do I need a visa to travel to South East Asia?

Whether you need a visa to travel to South East Asia depends on what country you're a national of and which country you travel to.

Generally, passport holders from the United States, Canada, New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom don't need visas to travel around South East Asia, but visa requirements will vary from country to country.

For example, citizens from the previously mentioned countries will need a visa to travel to Vietnam, however, they won't require a visa for Thailand. 

If you're unsure of the visa requirements of the country you're traveling to, it's best to check on government-run websites or at your nearest embassy or consulate. 

What is the internet access like in South East Asia?

The internet access in South East Asia can vary from country to country and between different regions in that country.

Most hotel chains or other accommodation options in major cities will have wi-fi, so it'll be easy to connect to the internet.

B uying an international SIM card with a local provider is recommended if you'd rather have no restrictions (and no exorbitant data roaming fees). This still doesn't mean you're guaranteed to have access to the internet though as the signal is often limited or unreliable in rural areas in countries such as Laos, Timor-Leste and Myanmar. 

What are the toilets like in South East Asia?

The toilet facilities in South East Asia differ depending on which country you're in and what region of that country you're in.

Most major cities have westernized toilet facilities in places such as restaurants and hotels, but the further from urban areas you are, the more likely you'll find squat toilets, so set your expectations accordingly.

Toilet paper is also a rare find unless you're in major cities or popular tourist areas, so it's best to always pack your own in preparation. 

Can I drink the water in South East Asia?

There aren't many countries in South East Asia where the tap water is recommended for drinking, especially in Laos and Cambodia.

To avoid getting sick, buy bottled water or use filtered water to brush your teeth.

You should also be mindful when showering, ask for drinks with no ice in them and peel all fruit before you eat them.

While Malaysia is considered to have the safest drinking water, it still has a different mineral content than your stomach might be used to so it's best to stick to filtered or bottled water where possible. 

When is the best time to visit South East Asia?

The best time to travel to South East Asia is between November and February when the weather is relatively dry, humidity levels are low and temperatures are warm but not uncomfortable.

However, this is considered to be 'peak season' so expect large crowds at popular tourist destinations and increased accommodation prices in major cities.

If you want to avoid all of that, try traveling during the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November.

If you can, avoid traveling from June to August as this is South East Asia's rainy, cyclone season. 

Is tipping common in South East Asia?

While it might not be as prevalent as it is in the US, tipping is still part of the culture in most South East Asian countries.

H ow much you tip and in what scenarios tipping is expected will differ depending on the country you travel in.

For example, tipping isn't expected or required in Malaysia and Singapore (and can even be considered rude), but countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia are starting to accept tipping culture. 

What currency will I need in South East Asia?

The currency you need when traveling in South East Asia depends on which countries you'll be visiting, with each country having its own currency.

Here is a list of countries with their currencies:

• Vietnam - Vietnamese Dong (VND)
• Indonesia - Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
• Singapore - Singapore Dollar (SGD) 
• Cambodia - Cambodian Riel (KHR)
• Malaysia - Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) 
• Thailand - Thai Baht (THB)
• Philippines - Philippine Peso (PHP)
• Myanmar - Myanmar Kyat (MMK)
• Timor-Leste - United States Dollars (USD)
• Laos - Lao Kip (LAK)  
• Brunei - Brunei Dollar (BND)

Do I need to bring cash with me to South East Asia?

It's worth bringing cash with you if you travel around South East Asia, as paying with cash is still very prevalent in most countries.

Countries like Vietnam and Thailand are big on markets and hawker hall type cafeterias, so having cash is usually the easiest way to buy things and makes bargaining for items more accessible.  

Is South East Asia safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Most of the countries in South East Asia have a thriving LGBTQIA+ scene, especially Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia.

Discretion is still advised for travelers of the LGBTQIA+ community when it comes to public displays of affection, particularly if you're traveling away from the larger cities to more rural areas where acceptance of same-sex relationships may not be as common. 

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

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Asia Tour Packages

Everybody deserves a break from their routine and what better than going on a holiday! But planning a holiday at times can be a tedious task. Worry not; SOTC will take care of all the planning, right from finalizing your itinerary to making necessary booking to ensure that you have the best Asia holiday. Our Asia packages are tailor-made and customized keeping in mind our customers choice as each individual has different taste, budget and idea of a holiday. We also have several group holiday packages, for the ones who love travelling with their families, friends or other like-minded people. We also give you an insight about the flourishing Asia tourism as we take you on a journey that includes the best places and things to do on your holiday.

From how to reach your destination, flight booking or hotel bookings we will take care of everything for your Asia tour package. All you need to do is pick and choose a holiday package that suits you the best!

Most Popular Asia Tour Packages

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Private Southeast Asia Tours 2024/2025

Southeast Asia boasts a unique blend of cultures, breathtaking nature, tropical adventures, and beach relaxation.

For first-time visitors, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam offer a fantastic introduction. For seasoned travelers seeking in-depth exploration, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines are highly recommended. For the adventurous spirit , Laos and Myanmar might be the perfect fit.

Whether you have a week or a few, Asia Highlights Travel , with its 24 years of expertise, tailors private tours to your preferences. We craft multi-country itineraries perfect for couples and families, ensuring your dream Southeast Asian adventure becomes a reality – be it celebrating a milestone, enjoying a family vacation, or embarking on a post-retirement journey.

The customizable private SE Asia tours below cost from US$200 /person/day.

• Classic SEA Itineraries of about 2 weeks
• Classic SEA Itineraries of about 3 Weeks
• Best SEA Tours for Couples
• Best SEA Tours for Families
• Single-Country SEA Tours
• FAQs about SEA Trips

Classic Southeast Asia Itineraries of about 2 Weeks

Most first-timers' Southeast Asia trips are about 2 weeks. Here are some itineraries for your inspiration. No matter whether you would like to fully enjoy one country or prefer a combo, we are happy to tailor-make a private package for you .

15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour

14-day classic vietnam and thailand tour, 12-day best of thailand and cambodia tour, 14-day vietnam, cambodia and laos itinerary: premium private tour, 13-day private singapore and bali journey of discovery, 12-day cambodia and vietnam highlights tour.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Classic Southeast Asia Itineraries of 3 Weeks or More

If you have 3 weeks or a month, you can have an in-depth tour or a panoramic tour of Indochina. It is not easy to organize the flights for all the connections. But with us, your personal travel advisor will arrange everything based on your schedule and preferences .

19-Day Highlights of Southeast Asia: Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam

20-day vietnam, thailand, cambodia, and bali tour, 28-day grand indochina tour, 17-day thailand and cambodia adventure tour, 18-day singapore, thailand, cambodia, and vietnam tour, 21-day thailand and vietnam adventure tour, best southeast asia tours for couples, 3-week best of thailand, cambodia, and vietnam tour for couples, 14-day thailand and cambodia tour for couples, 2-week vietnam-cambodia tour with a luxurious mekong cruise, 2-week thailand getaway tour for couples, 12-day luxury bali & java honeymoon, 10-day memorable bali honeymoon tour, best southeast asia tours for families, 18-day thailand, cambodia, and vietnam family adventure tour, 14-day thailand and vietnam family tour, 14-day vietnam and cambodia family tour, 2-week vietnam family-with-teenagers holiday, 12-day thailand family holiday, 10-day family fun trip to bali, single-country southeast asia tours, faqs about southeast asia trips, 1. what is the best country to visit in southeast asia.

Comprising 11 countries of impressive diversity in culture and history, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler. If you are planning your first tour to Southeast Asia, Thailand or Vietnam are the top choices. You will experience exotic cultures, beautiful countryside, great beaches, and delicious food. Tourism in both countries is well developed. It is easy to get visas and flights and travel around.

Some travelers also choose a multi-country Southeast Asia tour. Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia is the top recommendation.

2. What is the best way to travel around Southeast Asia?

Flights are recommended when traveling around Southeast Asia. Singapore Airlines, Bangkok Airways, Garuda Indonesia, and Vietnam Airlines are reliable airlines. There are also recommended budget airlines with good service such as Air Asia and PT Lion Mentari Airlines. Our personal travel advisors will help you fly comfortably even with a budget airline.

3. What is the cost for a Southeast Asia tour?

The cost is about US$180–220 per person per day, based on a private tour for 2 people and 4-star hotels (international flights, not included). If you book with us, your personal travel advisor would be happy to customize a tour according to your interests and budget.

4. Is it difficult to handle visas for a Southeast Asia trip?

No, it is not. The travelers from most of the European countries or Americas can enjoy visa-free or just need to get a e-visa for the popular destinations in SE Asia such as Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia (Bali), Singapore. If you travel with Asia Highlights, your personal travel advisor will help with your visa applications.

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10 Day South East Asia Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 10 day South East Asia tour with TourRadar. Choose from 687 trips with 20,556 customer reviews, that range from 8 up to 10 days.

250+ South East Asia 10 day tour packages with 20,556 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

CAMBODIA – VIETNAM 10 DAYS 9 NIGHTS - Hanoi / Halong Bay / Siem Reap /Angkor Wat/ Ho Chi Minh/ Mekong Delta

Incredible tour package… don’t hesitate, just reserve it. You won’t regret it. Highly recommend multi-day tours full inclusive package. Great at all

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

• In-depth Cultural

Vietnam Express Northbound

The itinerary was well-chosen, and the guide was experienced and helpful. I had a general impression of the country, with its highlights . A positive experience overall.

Philippines One Life Adventures - 10 Days

Just completed the 14 day tour with Lini & loved it. The itinerary was well planned with a great mix of sightseeing, activities & time to relax. Highly recommend this tour.

• Coach / Bus

10 Days Beauty of Indochina

Guides were very good. Tours in Vietnam were good not great. Tours at Angkor were very good. Tours in Luang Prabang were ok not great. Did enjoy all the locations. Hotels in Vietnam and Luang were great. Siem Reap was ok.

• Sightseeing

Vietnam - 10 Days. Departure every Monday from Hanoi

Absolutely amazing. The tour was so much fun with really good guides. A big thank you to Danny and Tony.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Cambodia: Ancient Ruins & Boat Rides

The journey was a dream. It certainly wasn't a luxurious vacation, but one could experience so much like never before. Seeing the side of Cambodia where there isn't much, yet everyone is happy and giving their best made our tour fantastic. It was incredible, and I can recommend it to everyone.A special thanks goes to our CEO Sarou, who made the journey even more enjoyable than ever. The only thing that slightly irritated me was the additional transfer I booked. There was no information upon my arrival, and for the departure, it arrived too late, nearly causing me to miss my flight due to the airport's busyness. Also, remember to carry more cash with you, as every single day you might end up paying an extra $20 for an activity that wasn't really mentioned.

10 Days in Vietnam From South to North

Our tour, hosted by Hoi An Express, was wonderful, 10 days we will never forget. We felt well-cared for every step of the way, from the morning we were met at the airport in Ho Chi Minh City (at 1AM!) until we were dropped off at the Hanoi Airport ten days later. Each of our guides was friendly, fluent in English, and full of valuable and interesting information. Each day included one or more new and fascinating experiences. Our hotels ranged from satisfactory to very good. (We did not opt to upgrade our accommodations from the basic level.). All hotels felt safe. Our rooms, while sometimes a little rustic, were clean and well-supplied. Breakfasts also ranged from satisfactory to excellent. All hotels were well located to support our activities during the abundant free time included in the itinerary. We walked a lot with our hotel as a base. Transportation via Grab was also easy and economical. Our tour group ranged in size from three people (for most of the tour) to five (during the middle part of the tour) to 20 for the Halong Bay overnight cruise. These travelmates added greatly to the overall experience. We enjoyed new friendships. When we plan a future Asian tour, I will start by checking out TourRadar and Hoi An Express. They worked very, very well for us.

Bali Bucket List Original 10 Day Tour

It was a great trip with a lot of different activities! Our guide Ali was amazing!

• €55 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Cambodia Intro

A memorable 10 days for sure!! As someone who had always wanted to visit Cambodia, my experience with IntroTravel and our guide Seyha exceeded my every expectation. On top of the already well-planned itinerary, Seyha always went above and beyond with recommendations and helped organize additional activities that suited our group’s interests. He took care of our every need throughout the trip as well. 10/10 would recommend both our amazing guide and Intro to anyone thinking about traveling somewhere new!

Bali Experience

The tour guide were all very helpful, good and go out of their way to make our journey fun n amazing. I will book all my trips n recommend to all my friends your companies excellent service. Iam very please to the iteniraries n the hotel we stayed in. Thank u very much to make my holiday more enjoyable 😉

VIETNAM 10 DAYS - UNIQUE EXPERIENCES / Hanoi / Halong bay / Da nang / Hoi an / ho chi minh / mekong delta - full inclusive of tour

Interesting experiences and worth to spend my money again in Vietnam. Vietnam is my second hometown since last visit

2024 Promotion: 10 Days From the South to the North of Vietnam

10 Days Vietnam Tour - Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hue -Hoi an - Ho chi Minh Exploring vietnam highlight destination

Given the week we had this was the perfect Vietnam trip. A great introduction to the country personalized by our skilled guide Hoang bro. I have only good things to say about the LVPTRAVEL and our guide. Vietnam was a beautiful fascinating country

Vietnam Highlights (10 Days)

This trip Highly of Vietnam 10 day was fantastic. LVPTRAVEL are great and I would definitely use them again. Our tour guide was so knowledgeable and hospitable . Thanks for a wonderful trip. We did experience what had to that's incredible. Best regards, lovely spanish guys !

Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand In 10 Days - Private Tour

Great Tour! We had a short time and wanted to cover many countries for our Honeymoon. We choose the 4 star package and we’re very happy with our hotels. Although the Phuket hotel was really a better fit for Families with children than couples. The Transfers were very good. We had private cars and were able to find them. Lucy was there via WhatsApp for support if we had needed it. We got to and from the Airport on time and safely with AC every time. The tours set up in each location were great as well. All guides spoke English well enough for us to understand and were full of personality. Special shoutouts to our tour guides in Hoi Ann (Ly) and Cambodia (Sen). Given the short timeline and 4 locations you are moving a lot, we went in knowing that. If you want more time per city, pick a longer tour. The stop in Cambodia is very short but extremely well executed for the time. Nice hotel, great service and restaurant recommendations. Our tour guide Sen and driver were with us from pickup to drop off. Hiking up temples in Angkor with an air conditioned private car with cold waters after each was a great way to cool down. But even more the cool lemon grass towels the driver handed us after every temple were amazing, 5 star service. Definitely helped my wife’s enthusiasm level throughout the day. We met great people on the cruise of Halong Bay and had a great group. Our guide in Hoi An was very knowledgeable and we loved the cooking class. We will definitely be back to Hoi An. The market tour was really interesting. Thank you again Chef Ly! We added a night in Hanoi at the beginning due to when our flight landed and two in Phuket at the end for some relaxation. Thanks again Lucy and team for a great trip.

What people love about 10 Day South East Asia Tours

Nice trip besides humourous friends ! Vietnam and Cambodia package trip is one of many highlights in Asia, you will be amazed and surprised in those countries , seamless tours, friendly locals, funny guide. We visted Hanoi, Halog, hue then hoian, saigon before moving to Cambodia. All highly appreciated experience, meaningful activities.

Loved this tour! Was the perfect mix of activities and group time and relaxation / solo time. The 2 day island hopping with overnight stay on the remote island is one of the best experiences I’ve ever had! Our tour guide cece was amazing too and made it really fun and involved everyone. Best snorkelling I’ve ever done too! Definitely recommending to friends and will be booking another one life tour in the future

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Home » Southeast Asia » Backpacking Travel Guide

Backpacking Southeast Asia Travel Guide (Budget Tips • 2024)

For many travellers, backpacking Southeast Asia is the ultimate highlight of their backpacking adventures. If you are coming from Western civilisation, exploring these mystical countries is like being catapulted into an alternate reality.

Over my travel experiences, I’ve spent YEARS bouncing around this dazzling area of the world. And still – to this day – I am awe-struck by it, time and time again.  

From the moment you set foot on the continent, you can feel the electricity in the air. Your senses explode from stimulation as you head out into the hustle and bustle in search of the BEST street food and an ice-cold beer…

If you’re new to backpacking, this corner of the world is a great place to start your travels: it’s affordable, safe, diverse, friendly, and astonishingly beautiful. From the heart of Bangkok to the islands of Indonesia, legions of inspiration are found in every country throughout the region – and you’ll want to see it all. 

With enticing tales of adventure coming from generations of travellers, it can be hard to know where to start planning your visit to Southeast Asia. It’s not as straight forward as arriving in other continents in the world. Having some travel tips with do you a world of good. 

Never fear! This Southeast Asia travel guide details ALL the low-down with everything you need to know to embark on your epic journey. From the OG Banana Pancake Trail itinerary to my favourite cheap eats, this guide has it all.

Spoiler alert : banh mi is the best street food!

Fasten your seat belts and don’t forget your motorcycle helmet. This is the ultimate backpacker’s guide to travelling Southeast Asia!

Why Go Backpacking in Southeast Asia?

Backpacking Southeast Asia is wildly chaotic, punctuated by brief moments of reflection and utter calm. When I first landed in Vietnam and began my travels in the region, I got that wonderful thought of so this is what travelling is about .

The best thing about visiting Southeast Asia is that you can stick to the well-trodden path and still have a mind-blowing adventure that’s easy on logistics. There are cheap buses you can catch between countries, it’s easy to buy your own motorbike and explore yourself, plus internal flights are usually cheap too.

Conversely, it’s very easy to step off into the wilderness and have a raw, untamed adventure. Some of my best memories come from taking a side road through the jungle on the Vietnam-Laos border. I camped on the outskirts of small villages amongst unruly jungles that hadn’t seen tourists come through in 10 years. Of course, obligatory rice wine was shared each night!

Generally speaking, backpacking in Southeast Asia is very cheap compared to travelling to other parts of the world. You don’t have to count your pennies and hustle at every step of the way in order to enjoy a beer at the end of the day. I’d say this part of the world takes the cake when it comes to budget backpacking .

Because the region is so cheap, you can enjoy big-ticket experiences that you might not be able to afford in other regions of the world. This could include world-class SCUBA diving in Malaysia , or a freediving course in the Philippines.

Even the ‘everyday experiences’ of backpacking Southeast Asia are epic, though! Think about taking yoga classes in the morning and surf in the afternoons in Indonesia . What about hiking through dense jungles exploding with wildlife, raging rivers, and massive waterfalls in Laos ? And you can’t forget to explore Vietnam by motorbike .

There is a reason that, despite how touristy some parts of the region get, Southeast Asia remains an incredibly special place to both first time and veteran travellers!

It’s just that bloody good .

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Southeast Asia

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Let us be clear about one thing: Southeast Asia has so many things to do and see that it would be impossible to see it all in one lifetime let alone in just one backpacking trip. That said, you can sure pack in a whole lot no matter what your time frame is!

Also, remember that this is a region that lives, breathes, and thrives on a certain degree of chaos. Backpacking in Southeast Asia requires one to adapt to that chaos and embrace the wonderful spontaneity that can arise here.

I don’t think that you should attempt to plan your trip to the last tuk-tuk ride. That said, having a general Southeast Asia travel itinerary in mind will help you get the most out of your trip. You don’t want to spend your time scrambling for things to do – nor do you want to pack so much into your travels that you forget to enjoy yourself.

Do you have 2 weeks? 3 months? 6 months? No matter what your time frame is, the itineraries I have listed below have helpful travel routes for Southeast Asia to suit all schedules.

Note that each itinerary can be combined with another, done in reverse, and customized based on your interests. Sometimes it’s worth leaving off one or two sights in order to fully enjoy the others.

2 Weeks Backpacking Southeast Asia Itinerary: An Epic Getaway

When low on time, I advise sticking to smaller countries like Laos, Thailand, or Cambodia. That way the transportation distances won’t eat a big bite out of your precious backpacking time. You will certainly only be scratching the surface, but you will leave with an even more intense hunger to return!

You could start your 2 weeks by visiting Bangkok  and exploring the city for a few days. Thailand also has some spectacular temple ruins of its own at Ayathuya and  Sukhothai which are close to Bangkok and well worth checking out.

From Bangkok, it’s easy to travel to Chiang Mai  in Northern Thailand and from Chiang Mai onwards to the mountain town of Pai in just a few hours. If the north doesn’t quite do it for you, you can always go party on the epic Thai islands in the south.

Alternatively, you could go from Bangkok across the border into Cambodia . There you can go see Angkor Wat and go south to visit the tropical islands off Cambodia. While there is a party vibe on the Cambodian islands, they’re definitely more relaxed. Think swimming at night with bioluminescence and chilling all day in a hammock with just a splash of psytrance.

3 Months Backpacking Southeast Asia Itinerary: The Banana Pancake Trail

This backpacking itinerary takes you through the heart of what put Southeast Asia on the map. This is the juiciest of the banana pancake trail!

I would recommend flying into Bangkok and still kicking off your Southeast Asian travel with a bang. As you head north to the likes of Chiang Mai and the hippie village of Pai where there are lots of opportunities to creep off the beaten path.

Explore the best of what Thailand has to offer before heading to Laos. Take the slow boat from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang . If you have time,  climb Mount Phousi , because daaaaaaaamn , those views are insane! 

Laos receives a fair amount of backpackers, however far fewer than Thailand. The main attraction to Laos is its unmatched natural beauty, kind people, and rock-bottom prices. Vang Vieng is the main backpacker playground in Laos; this is the place where you can smoke a joint and eat banana pancakes all day.  Tad Lo Waterfall is definitely worth the visit as well.

Vietnam is another classic stop on this route. Soak in the majestic views and cooler temperatures of the mountains in the north before heading south. Hire a motorcycle, explore the cities, go scuba diving, or hop around the islands.

Vietnam has THE best street food in all of Southeast Asia, so prepare your belly for bliss. From backpacking Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi there are ample rice paddies, bustling metropolises, and banh mi glory to enjoy!

Finally, travel to Cambodia and Angkor Wat en route back to Thailand’s southern beaches. Learn about Cambodia’s sobering recent history whilst exploring some of the most impressive temples and beaches in all of Southeast Asia.

You can finish your 3-month extravaganza with a full moon party on one of Thailand’s best beaches. Bottoms up! You deserve it.

6+ Months Backpacking Southeast Asia Itinerary: The Longterm Backpacker

You will not be the first backpacker who loved backpacking Southeast Asia so much that you spent 6 months there followed by another 6 months followed by another cheeky 6 months. The longer you spend here, the more that the region opens up beyond parties on the beach.

Go trekking in Borneo! Get your ass to Indonesia and explore a few of the thousands of remote islands there! Hit up far-flung places in the Philippines! I will always vouch for travelling off the beaten path .

This itinerary would still have you flying into Bangkok AKA Asia’s Sin City. Backpacking Thailand is almost a rite of passage for those that backpack Southeast Asia. Now, while Thailand is crazy beautiful, you can experience a lot of Thailand’s best highlights  in a month or less. 

You can travel south to explore Cambodia and the Thai islands before crossing over into Northern Malaysia . Check out Langkawi Island before heading south. Staying in Penang is the best; it’s one of my favourite cities in Southeast Asia, with some great hikes and diving to be had around Penang National Park .

Alternatively, you can travel to Bali or Manila  from Bangkok and explore a totally new part of Southeast Asia. Philippine highlights include climbing Mt Pulag ,  Sagada’s Crystal Cave  and  Olahbinan ,  Kalinga Jungle ,  El Nido for some climbing and partying, and Coron for epic scuba diving.

If you want to dedicate a couple of months to Indonesia you won’t be disappointed. Alongside the Bali to Flores route, you can also catch a flight to Sumatra . Here, visit the orangutan sanctuary in Bukit Lawang  and the stunning Lake Toba .

Also on tap here is world-class diving at Pulau Weh . This tiny island is located at either the beginning or end of Indonesia, depending on which way you’re looking at the map. You’ll have to pass through the town of Banda Acehto  to reach here, which is the only place in Indonesia that has Sharia Law in place. This definitely isn’t the place to come party while backpacking Indonesia, but the juice is worth the squeeze if you get to Pulau Weh.

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Southeast Asia is truly massive .

There are 11 countries that comprise the Southeast Asian region; each one is special and also radically different in its own ways. You won’t even be eating the same food from country to country. Sure, it’s all mostly rice-based, but is it fried Nasi Goreng with an egg on top or is it laden with spicy green Thai curry?

The landscapes are even more varied with jungles, mountains, epic coastlines, and deserted islands all found in this region.

There’s something addictive to landing smack bang in the humid collection of markets, traffic, and skyrises that do crop up amongst all major Southeast Asian cities. Just visiting one or two of these countries will have you desperate to come back for more!

Backpacking Thailand

For many first timers, backpacking Thailand is the image at the forefront of their imaginations when it comes to destinations in Southeast Asia. Those white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and towering jungle peaks are sprinkled with a little hedonistic fun and low, low prices.

Finding a Thailand backpacking route is easy, as many routes are well-established and there are plenty of backpackers on the ground to grab tips from. You just never know who will suggest an epic street food vendor where you find spicy watermelon, or who will give you the heads up that certain roads have become notorious for police asking for bribes.

In addition to its natural splendour, Thailand boasts some of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic cities, especially if you are wanting to settle in somewhere as long term as a digital nomad. In fact, Thailand is rapidly becoming the digital nomad capital of the world. While being a digital nomad changes your travels , it can be incredibly rewarding – especially if you’re surrounded by a group of like-minded people.

Thailand receives more visitors annually than any other Southeast Asia nation by a long shot, so it’s not super easy to get off the beaten path. That being said, if you drive far enough north, you’ll stop seeing tourists and start seeing covert drug smuggling routes. I’m not suggesting that drug smuggling routes make the best adventure – especially for first-time backpackers – but if you happen to find work as a fresh-faced, aspiring journalist, then this country is definitely still full of stories.

There are also some lesser-known hikes nearby Chiang Pai – plus the motorbike riding around there is amazing . Just be aware of elephant experiences–the vast majority are unethical, so make sure you do your research and only visit TRUE sanctuaries like Elephant Nature Park.

What to Know Before Visiting Thailand

• Don’t miss out on… the North – this is the REAL Thailand! Sure, those Southern Islands are beautiful and full of some cheeky debauchery, but if you want to get off the beaten path then you need the jungle mountains of the north.
• You know what’s overrated… the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan – it’s pretty sloppy here, not to mention hectic. The Eden Party is way better.
• The coolest hostel is… Get Hi Hostel in Chiang Rai is a The Broke Backpacker favourite! Especially if you’re travelling solo through Thailand, it’s a perfect place to find your tribe.
• The best food is found in… Bangkok. If you find yourself craving a cheesy pasta or fat steak you won’t be disappointed in this city! But even better (in my opinion) are the endless side alleys and markets selling incredible street food. Spicy watermelon, pad thai style noodle salads, and soups so spicy you’ll sweat out your demons… YES, please!

Backpacking Vietnam

Over the last few decades, Vietnam has charged to the head of the line as a top destination for backpackers. Delicious cuisine, cheap places to stay, epic ancient temples, and mind-boggling motorbike routes are just a few of the draws that make up the charm in Vietnam.

If you are wanting to explore Southeast Asia by motorbike, then Vietnam is the best place to go. The country is long and thin, so it’s perfect for a road trip and bikes with Vietnamese plates can enter most other countries in Southeast Asia (this is pretty unique).

Vietnam has the feeling of a country that’s leapt into the future so quickly that its countryside is buffering to catch up. When exploring Hanoi , Ho Chi Minh City, or any of Vietnam’s big cities you’ll find skyscrapers and high-speed internet. There are underground music scenes and students who deal a little weed on the side to ex-pats. The streets are thick with motorbikes.

Then there’s the countryside: rolling green rice paddies, straw hats, and shacks. The mornings are long and slow, the evening is full of the sound of insects. Fields are thick with buffalo herds. And yet, both sides of Vietnam are united by their incredible food.

Pho might be the most famous noodle broth, but it’s far from the only tasty meal. Vietnam knows how to make a meal out of very little and they know how to make it taste good . Most backpackers will at some point indulge in a 3 am banh mi after a big night out and know what I mean!

What to Know Before Visiting Vietnam

• Don’t miss out on… the  Ha Giang Loop by motorbike . This one of the hidden gems of Vietnam that takes you through towering jungle covered mountains on windy, delicate roads. This is not for the faint hearted or ill prepared. This is a real adventure!
• Look out for… those bamboo pipes in the north – they’re used for smoking local tobacco and hit HARD. You might risk lung cancer, but all in the name of experiencing the local way of life, right?
• The coolest hostel is… Redhouse Dalat . It’s easily one of the most beautiful hostels I’ve ever stayed in and the owner, Linh, is an absolute gem!
• The best food is found in… Hue – it’s well known for its Central Vietnamese plates. I had quite possibly the best meal of my life here (definitely top 10, anyway). In a back alley, crammed into plastic chair far too small for me, I sampled the legendary Bun Bo Hue… I never knew noodles and broth would make me want to become a foodie.

Backpacking Laos

Laos is truly a special country in Southeast Asia and one that has managed to retain its easy-going identity in the era of mass tourism. Wild jungles, river deltas, smiling locals, and amazing treks make Laos the backpacking paradise that it is.

Places in northern Laos, like the areas in and around Luang Prabang , experience cooler temperatures in the mountains and rainforest. The south is more of the agricultural heart of the country.

Each area holds a lot to explore for backpackers. Laos is the perfect country for backpackers wanting to experience Southeast Asia within a short time frame as you can get in a bit of all climates, different cultures, and party vibes.

One can easily see the highlights and experience the country off the beaten path in 2 weeks to a month. Take it easy though. Laos is a country that is not to be rushed through. Plus, going slow means you might just end up on the 420-friendly river island– Don Det –just like I did!

You will see when you get your boots on the ground that nothing happens quickly in Laos anyway… This is a land of chill .

What to Know Before Visiting Laos

• Don’t miss out on… the mountains around Vang Vieng. Lots of people neglect exploring these in favor of tubing the river. The river party scene in Vang Vieng is diminishing anyways.
• You know what’s overrated… Luang Prabang. In recent years, it’s become very touristy and a bit disingenuous. The nearby waterfalls are still cool though.
• The coolest hostel is… Vang Vieng Chill House . It encompasses all the things I love most about hostels: chilling and good vibes. It gets a little noisy sometimes but it’s a great place to meet people.
• The best food is found… on the streets! The street food in Laos is absolutely top-notch.

Backpacking Cambodia

The temples at Angkor Wat are an obvious draw for those backpacking Cambodia and are truly impressive. Cambodia is a country rich in culture, beautiful beaches and islands, the Mekong River Delta, and bustling markets.

The nation of Cambodia is a country still pulling out of an extremely dark, recent past. A staggering 1.5 – 3 million people were killed by the Khmer Rouge, led by tyrant Pol Pot. It happened only 35 – 40 years ago and is still very fresh and raw to the Cambodian people.

Despite the tragic history, the local Khmer people are some of the kindest humans in the world. The country is still recuperating, rebuilding, and moving forward, however, corruption is hindering its rehabilitation.

There is a strange energy in the air in Phnom Penh sometimes. It can be quite tense and stifling amongst the humidity. It’s as if everyone is waiting for the other shoe to drop and for chaos to return.

This is a country that makes you think about how lucky you were to be born into a country of peace. And I think that it’s important amongst the wild nights partying in Cambodia that you pause and really learn something from the lands you’re travelling in.

Cambodia is one of my favourite Southeast Asian destinations to travel to; I loved it so much that I ended up overstaying my visa. From the awesome hostels , cheap prices, and epic off-the-beaten-track travels, Cambodia seriously has it all. See it for yourself and you’ll fall in love too.

What to Know Before Visiting Cambodia

• Don’t miss out on… the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng. One of the most sobering places in Southeast Asia and a refreshing change of pace.
• Keep an eye out for… temples other than Angkor Wat. Cambodia is full of Khmer ruins, like Koh Ker. You can spend days getting lost in the ruins of an empire past.
• The coolest hostel is… Yellow Star Hostel . It’s the kind of place you extend your stay for as long as your Cambodia itinerary allows.
• The best food is found in… the outdoor food market in Siem Reap. Most of the backpacker accommodation is conveniently located around here so it’s simply a matter of walking down and gorging yourself silly!

Backpacking Myanmar

Oh, Myanmar. For a few years between roughly 2011 and 2019, backpacking in Myanmar really took off as the country instituted democratic reforms and started to open up to the world. There was even a fear that in opening up to the world too quickly, Myanmar would lose some of its authenticity and charm.

I want to stress that I love Myanmar. I love the country and I love the people. I travelled there through some of the remote Northern regions. I caught the dilapidated trains, hitchhiked with monks, and even publically pooped my pants on a public bus after some dodgy food.

The temples are second to none, the food is cheap and delicious, and the countryside is beautiful .

But, the seeds of what has happened to Myanmar had been sown many years before. You can trace the military take over and crackdown back to the consequences of British rule back in Imperial times. There was a lot of tension during the decolonial period too with the government shirking a lot of international aid and joining any international forums.

This isolationism was intensified with the first military coup of the 1960s. This was the same military that was loosening the reigns during the 2010s that allowed a few of us to explore what truly is one of my favourite countries on the planet.

The tensions with the various ethnic groups on the borders never went away though. And neither did the military. As of early 2021, Aung San Suu Kyi (the former democratic leader) has been imprisoned and political dissenters shot and jailed as the military clamps down on control again.

I couldn’t in good conscience advise anyone to go backpacking in Myanmar at this time. But I don’t want to strike this country off the map entirely. The people deserve better than that.

It’s probably not the place of a travel guide to tell you to support democratic movements – especially not ones that are as flawed as Aung San Suu Kyi’s – but I think it’s fair to say that the moment it’s safe. Go backpacking Myanmar!

February 2023 Update : In the past few months, Myanmar has reopened its e-visa program and is officially “open for tourism.” Many travellers have reported successful and problem free trips, BUT it’s still important to proceed with extreme caution. Though the political situation has stabilized, there is the chance of getting stuck in the country.

What to Know Before Visiting Myanmar

• Don’t miss out on… Bagan. There are touristy spots in Bagan, however, the scope of the area is immense. Riding an e-bike to a secret place and setting up for sunset is the way to go. There are so many side roads and off the beaten path ruins here that you’ll find something special.
• You know what’s overrated… Inle Lake. Super beautiful, super touristy, and super expensive. Visit, then shoot through for some of the mad trekking in the nearby regions.
• The coolest hostel is… Ostello Bello . These guys are a solidly run hostel chain that will have your back and provide a place of comfort while travelling Myanmar.
• The best food is found in… Mandalay. I actually love staying in Mandalay , and the aromas drifting from the nighttime street food market is a big reason why! It’s a big city so there’s a lot

Backpacking Malaysia

I absolutely LOVE backpacking in Malaysia. Somehow, Malaysia has managed to stay below the radar of many travellers on the Southeast Asia backpacking circuit. To write off Malaysia as uninteresting would be a mistake: Malaysia should be your next backpacking destination!

For one, I found Malaysia to have some of the lowest prices in all of Southeast Asia. The country is extremely clean, the roads are in great shape, and the people speak decent English. Malaysia is also a majority Muslim country, which I found to be an interesting contrast to the Buddhist majorities of the countries to the north.

Tioman Island is one of Southeast Asia’s best-kept secrets. Getting your PADI open water certificate is cheaper on Tioman than anywhere in Thailand. Also, diving is better – in my opinion. The coral reefs are not experiencing the same level of bleaching as they are in Thailand. I saw plenty of turtles, sharks, and more vibrant reef systems generally.

Malaysia is also home to one of the world’s oldest rainforests at Taman Negara . So alongside some of the most vibrant and developed cities in Asia are some of Asia’s most wild and unruly jungles! And, if that wasn’t enough, Malaysian food is seriously delicious.

Then there is Malaysian Borneo . Parts of Borneo are surprisingly well developed. That said, there are giant swaths of the island that are still wild and teaming with rhinoceros, orangutans, and other rare wildlife. The trekking here is of the old school, beat your way through the jungle variety! Malaysia has incredible adventure opportunities for those willing to get well off the beaten path!

What to Know Before Visiting Malaysia

• Don’t miss out on… Borneo. It’s such an overlooked destination but there’s so much cool stuff going on here. Get a tattoo in Kuching!
• Look out for… hidden speakeasies in Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown. They’re VERY well disguised, and absolutely worth it! Being an Islamic country, it’s harder to get alcohol here but where there’s a will there’s a way.
• The coolest hostel is… Best Attitude Hostel Cenang . This hostel has great social events running all the time – even if the karaoke makes me cringe!
• The best food is found in… Penang. Whilst ALL the food in Malaysia is good, Penang takes top honors. Seriously, those soups had me in a proper food coma.

Backpacking Singapore

Singapore is the smallest country to make our list. This tropical island city-state nation might be a blip on the map, but it is a regional economic and cultural powerhouse.

Backpacking Singapore has the reputation of being an expensive place to visit in Southeast Asia. Whilst Singapore is certainly more expensive when compared to its relatively cheap neighbours, there is still plenty to do for backpackers on a budget.

Some of the best street food in the world can be found amongst the food stalls of various markets. Singapore is a multi-cultural melting pot, so it is possible to taste the influences of many different cultures in a single dish. Rub elbows with locals and chow down on some epically delicious cheap eats.

Visit Chinatown , explore Arab Street , and be sure to grab a curry in Little India . Just based on the neighbourhood names alone, you can gather that many ethnic groups are represented across this city-country.

If you are visiting Singapore for longer, be sure to check out the nature reserves surrounding the city. Few people realize that just outside of Singapore’s urban centres there are some great day hikes to be had in the surrounding jungle. There’s also plenty of local life to be experienced beyond the neon landscape.

Singapore is a city that has something for every backpacker. Whether you are just passing through or coming specifically to backpack Singapore, you can be sure that there is always something awesome (and tasty) to get into here. It’s wildly different to other countries within the region, and yet there are glimmers of something similar. You’re sure to love it!

What to Know Before Visiting Singapore

• Don’t miss out on… the hawker centres (cafeterias). When you’re in Singapore, you EAT. The food is incredible.
• You know what’s overrated… Sentosa Island – it’s just Disney World with a fake beach. And you know what’s worse than hoardes of people? Paying to be around hoardes of people.
• The coolest hostel is… The Bohemian . This colourful little corner of Singapore makes my heart sing… apore.
• The best food is found in… Maxwell Food Centre. This is the most famous hawker centre in Singapore. In fact, the world’s cheapest Michelin-star restaurant is here! But aside from that, there are countless delicious options. There’s little wonder I ended up a couple of kilos heavier after backpacking in Singapore!

Backpacking Indonesia

As a vast archipelago nation composed of over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is one of the most fascinating countries in the world. The country is so big and so spread out that exploring it can feel overwhelming.

Backpacking Indonesia is an adventure like no other. For starters, you can climb active volcanoes, encounter orangutans in the jungle, visit ancient temples, and enjoy spectacular diving.

All along the way, you’ll be welcomed in by some of the most friendly people out there while you enjoy the varied and delicious cuisine. Best of all, you can easily backpack Indonesia on a budget.

Bali is definitely the backpacker magnet of Indonesia and for good reason. Along with a blossoming digital nomad scene and tons of epic places to see, Bali is also surf and party central. If you are wanting to become a yoga teacher, there are countless programs being offered all across the island.

It’s worth staying in Bali for some time, but be sure to visit some of the other islands as well. Though fun, I would argue that Bali is not at all what the rest of Indonesia feels like. The country is jam-packed with off the beaten path exploration potential.

17,000 islands bro! Get yourself out there and explore some of them and you will quickly fall in love with this massive island nation. Because the real Indonesia is well outside of Bali.

The streets of Jakarta are a hot mess of traffic and street food contrasted with towering skyscrapers. The outer islands are deserted. There are jungles and villages as much as there are modern cities.

What to Know Before Visiting Indonesia

• Don’t miss out on… island hopping. Backpacking Nusa Penida , Derawan, the Kai Islands, Wakatobi; these are some of the best, but there are many more to see.
• You know what’s overrated… Kuta, Bali. Avoid it like the plague. Drunk Australians and piles of garbage. Plus, the tourists have made many of the locals suspicious of travellers. Not a vibe.
• The coolest hostel is… Tribal Hostel . Super cool, open and tropical, you won’t find a better place to stay than Tribal. In the quiet area of Pererenan Bali, and with a huge coworking space, Tribal has it all!
• The best food is found in… Jakarta. This city takes satay to a whole new level. Be sure to try as many satay sticks as possible – and Nasi Goreng, of course.

Backpacking The Philippines

Cheap beer, beautiful beaches, adrenaline-pumping activities, and some of the most friendly, genuine, people in all of Asia; the Philippines truly captured my heart. I made some incredible friends in the Philippines and I have to say, it is one of the easiest countries in the world to travel around as the locals are so friendly.

Getting around the Philippines as a backpacker and finding a sweet and cheap place to stay (and a sweet and cheap thing to eat) is breezy.

There are thousands of islands to choose from. This translates into EPIC scuba diving, a great place to learn to snorkel and to go fishing. If you have never learned to spearfish , you should absolutely give it a go. Spearfishing doesn’t get much better than in the Philippines where the visibility is insanely good!

If you love trekking like me, then you will be pleased to find some epic hiking opportunities in the Philippines. Caves, rivers, mountains, you name it, one can find all the outdoor playgrounds here. There are heaps of adventure opportunities in The Philippines if you’re equipped for the job!

There are endless trekking options in the Philippines: remote hill hikes and active volcanoes, gentle strolls, and multi-day backpacking trips. Some popular treks include  Cordillera and its rice terraces and trekking Mt. Pulag .

Not too far from here you can reach Sagada (and my saucy Sagada travel guide ) and hike in the hills. Bohol and the Chocolate Hills are a great place to trek as well. The Philippines is home to 25 active volcanoes that can be climbed to the summit!

If you’re a fan of a party then you’re in the right place as festivals in The Philippines are some of the most lively events you can experience as a traveler, and a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the culture of such a diverse country.

What to Know Before Visiting the Philippines

• Don’t miss out on… El Nido. It’s utter paradise, the stuff of dreams and legends. Stay here forever if you can.
• Look out for… crowds at Baguio. It’s becoming one of the most popular places in The Philippines; let’s hope it doesn’t become TOO popular.
• The coolest hostel is… Mad Monkey Hostel Siargo . The MM chain is somewhat legendary – but this one is my favourite.
• The best food is found in …hard to say, really – there’s just so much diversity when it comes to Filipino food . Suckling pig in Cebu, empanadas in Ilocos, bulalo in Tagaytay; nothing really beats adobo  made by a local grandma though.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Southeast Asia

Once you have your boots on the ground, the Southeast Asia backpackers circuit will be as obvious as the stars in the night sky. Backpackers generally don’t venture too far off of the so-called Banana Pancake trail.

That said, if you are a keen and adventurous type, there are many parts of Southeast Asia that are untouched by backpackers to this day. Many regions are very wild and make for endless exploration opportunities.

Additionally, there are islands in Southeast Asia (think Indonesia) that are so damned remote, few westerners have ever been to them. Have fun on the Banana Pancake Trail, but don’t forget to dip out once in a while to truly explore.

For starters, I’d suggest trekking in Borneo or taking a long motorbike excursion to the Vietnam-China border. These are two wildly different types of adventure, but they hint at the wild times you can forge for yourself if you avoid other tourists like the plague.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Southeast Asia is an adventure playground. It is a backpacker paradise and a place teeming with awesome budget adventures. There will certainly never be a day where you are bored for lack of things to do in Southeast Asia. Let’s dive in and take a look at some of the radical adventures that await you in Southeast Asia…

1. Jungle Trekking

There is some great jungle trekking in Northern Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, Vietnam… Hell, in every country in Southeast Asia, really! If you choose to go trekking make sure to go on a multi-day hike. Personally, I prefer trekking in Laos, and I had an epic experience in Myanmar back when it was safe to travel through.

I would love to explore more of the remote corners of Indonesia and Borneo too – the options to go jungle trekking in Southeast Asia are really limitless!

2. Scuba Diving

Many backpackers fall in love with scuba diving whilst in Southeast Asia. Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia offer incredible diving opportunities in crystal clear waters with abundant marine life and plenty of wrecks for the underwater adventurer. The cheapest place to learn is the island of Kao Tao in Thailand and the islands in Malaysia.

If you’re not up to learning to dive, you can always learn to snorkel too. But with the affordable prices of Asia combined with the excellent visibility, you can’t really go wrong!

3. Motorcycle in Southeast Asia

Perhaps there is no better way to explore a country than by motorbike . You’re truly free to design your own itinerary and take every side alley that takes your fancy.

Plus, you become part of the landscape when you’re riding. There aren’t windows of a bus separating you from the buffalo or the mountain.

But there also isn’t much of anything to protect you if you fall off. So I’d suggest wearing proper riding gear and having insurance. That way, you’re free to enjoy the jungle roads, the epic peaks, and the offbeat camping destinations that Southeast Asia has to offer with some peace of mind.

4. Learn To Cook

Love the hell out of Southeast Asian cuisine? Me too!

Taking a cooking class whilst visiting a Southeast Asian country will supercharge your cooking skills. You will be preparing delicious meals for years down the line that remind you of the good ol’ days backpacking Southeast Asia.

Each country is full of such diverse dishes, too. You could pick up a nasi goreng recipe down in Indonesia which would stand completely apart from a classic Thai green curry, or a delectable set of Vietnamese rice paper rolls.

5. Chase Waterfalls

Don’t go chasing waterfalls… What nonsense! In every country in Southeast Asia, you will stumble upon waterfalls, epic waterfalls. Each will be more impressive than the last and will have you dreaming of turquoise waters for years to come.

6. Go Caving

Southeast Asia is home to some truly impressive cave systems. If you have the chance, you must explore some of them! There is the world’s largest cave in Vietnam, but many of the smaller caves throughout the region are equally as epic and more accessible. Over in the Phillippines, you can even try your hand at cave diving – that shit’s UNREAL!

7. It’s Street Food O’Clock

Love trying new things? There is something delicious, tasty, and bizarre to put in your mouth around every turn.

I hope the words “no, I don’t think I want to try that” never come out of your mouth. You will find food that makes you cry tears of joy. There will be times when your entire mouth becomes a burning pit of hell. And there will be magical moments where it’s a bit of both.

Each country brings something unique to the table for you to sink your teeth into – literally. So you’ve got no choice but to start munching your way through street carts!

(Exceptions are granted only if the food in question is an endangered or protected animal.)

8. Go climbing

Southeast Asia is full of karst mountains, which rise like pillars and towers from the ground. For the casual tourist, these spires make great photos. For climbers though, these are the stuff of dreams.

Visit Railay, Cat Ba, and Kuala Lumpur for some grade-A routes.

9. Island hopping

The Philippines has over 7,100 islands; Indonesia has 17,000. Combine these with all the other random islands scattered throughout Southeast Asia and you have a shit ton of islands to live out your Robinson Crusoe adventures. Better get started now – it’s going to take a while to visit them all.

If you get really addicted to island life, you may want to try boat life . That way you can perpetually traverse the best of Southeast Asia’s islands and beyond…

10. Stay in a Coworking Hostel

More and more backpackers are looking to turn their travels into a full time way of life… the best way to get inspired is to meet and brainstorm with other aspiring entrepreneurs and digital nomads, check out Tribal Hostel in Bali to find ideas, support and new friends 🙂

Psssst…. Searching for your Tribe?

Tribal Hostel – Bali’s first purpose-built co-working hostel and perhaps the greatest hostel in the world!

Come on down and enjoy amazing coffee, high-speed wifi and a game of pool 😉

The most common place to stay while backpacking Southeast Asia is, of course, hostels. They’re cheap, ubiquitous, and can be a helluva a lot of fun.

Never stayed in a hostel before? You’re in luck! Southeast Asia is the best place to learn how to live the hostel life .

Southeast Asia has some of the most well-known and well-regarded hostels in the world, which would impress even the most seasoned backpacker. There’s a real mix of cheap places to stay, too. There are the classic party hubs where to beer never stops flowing. But there are some really chill places where it’s more likely that everyone is sitting around smoking a joint while swapping travel stories.

If you’re going to be hitting the Banana Pancake Trail hard and for several months, you’ll want to pack the right stuff with you. We all know that guy who steals towels from hostels and takes them wherever he goes; don’t be that guy.

Whilst it’s easier to find hostels in the well-trafficked parts of Southeast Asia, there are some real gems just slightly off the beaten path. One of the best hostels I ever stayed in was in the middle of nowhere Northern Vietnam.

As is always the case, camping would be the ultimate way to save cash while backpacking. Just make sure you take a good tent with you and do your best to check your site – there are some really dangerous snakes and crazy, heavy rain out there in the remote, jungle areas.

There is really never a need to stay in a hotel while backpacking Southeast Asia. If you need a private space, book an airbnb or find a local guesthouse instead. Because it’s Asia, it won’t be very expensive and might be just what you need to recharge yourself.

• Where to Stay in Vietnam
• Where to Stay in Thailand
• Where to Stay in Malaysia
• Where to Stay in the Philippines
• Where to Stay in Singapore
• Where to Stay in Cambodia

Southeast Asia is the Mecca for cheap places to travel broke . Nowhere else on earth can you drink beer, find accommodation, and eat out every day easily for under $10 USD .

To give you an idea of the cost of backpacking Southeast Asia, here are some examples of shoestring travel budgets:

• $20 – $30 / day: Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia
• $25 – $35 / day: Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia
• $30 – $40 / day: Indonesia, Philippines

As you can see, some countries in Southeast Asia are more expensive than others. For example, the cost of a trip to Thailand  is not as dirt cheap as you might think, especially if you plan on just eating Western food.

Generally speaking, any of the islands you visit whilst backpacking Southeast Asia will be more expensive than the mainland. Also, Singapore kind of stands as its own thing – you can expect a much higher cost of travel there than the rest of Southeast Asia as it’s not catered to budget travellers.

Creating the right Southeast Asia budget for yourself is the key to a successful backpacking adventure. Travelling in Southeast Asia should never be super expensive. With a few budget travel hacks up your sleeve, you will save a ton of money and have the time of your life.

A Daily Budget in Southeast Asia

Here is a more in-depth breakdown of what you can expect to pay on a daily basis whilst backpacking Southeast Asia…

Budget Tips for Visiting Southeast Asia

To keep your spending to an absolute minimum whilst travelling in Southeast Asia, I recommend sticking to these basic rules of budget adventuring….

• Camp : With plenty of untouched beaches, forests, stunning countryside, and far-flung jungle, Southeast Asia can be a great place to pitch a tent for the night. A solid sleep system saves you money and can help you get off of the beaten path.
• Eat street food : Southeast Asia has the BEST street food in the world. You can easily load up on just a few dollars. Night markets are iconic places to start from.
• Couchsurf: Southeast Asian locals are awesome, so get to know some! Check out Couchsurfing to make some real friendships and see a country from the perspective of locals. When using Couchsurfing, be sure to send personalized messages to your potential host – make yourself stand out!
• Haggle: Barter, negotiate, sit down for a tea, and philander hedonistically if necessary. A good haggling game is going to go a long way towards backpacking Southeast Asia on a budget.
• Hitchhike: This is just your friendly neighborhood reminder that hitchhiking is the best, and it saves you cash! But more than that, it launches you right into the thick of it and entices adventures to come out of their hidey-holes.
• Leave “The Bubble”: Staying in the tourist bubbles always gets more expensive. Remember to leave the bubble and live the local life for truly cheap Southeast Asia travel.

Why Should You Travel to Southeast Asia with a Water Bottle?

Whilst there’s a lot that we can do when it comes to travelling responsibly , reducing your plastic consumption is one of the easiest and most impactful things you can do. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, don’t take plastic shopping bags, and forget straws. All of this just ends up in landfills or in the ocean.

One way you can minimise your plastic footprint is by investing in a premium filtered water bottle . That way, not only do you save money by not having to buy bottled water everywhere you go, but you aren’t contributing to the problem. You’re being part of the solution! And the turtles thank you!

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Due to the great distances involved when we are talking about ALL of Southeast Asia, the weather can really vary.

The peak tourist season in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam is from November to February when the weather is beautiful across the region, but there’s a high chance you’ll run into a ton of tourists. The really popular guesthouses fill up fast.

The local people are a really friendly bunch and keen to help so if you have any problems don’t be afraid to ask for directions from the locals. It is best to avoid northern areas of Thailand from February to April as the burning season starts and mountains will slowly be covered in smoke.

When we are talking about Indonesia for example, keep in mind that Indonesia is WAY farther south and nearer to the equator. The weather in Indonesia can be loosely applied to Malaysia as well.

Generally speaking, there are 2 seasons in Indonesia – the dry season and the rainy season. In most parts of the country, the dry season lasts from May to September . Of course, this is also the most popular time to visit.

Consider visiting in either May or September if you want to try and avoid the massive summer crowd, especially in Bali. This way you can find cheaper accommodation which is difficult to find during peak season.

Most of the rain in Indonesia falls from October to April , with some regional variations. Those looking to do some serious trekking or diving may want to try and plan a trip in the dry season. There’s no need to let a little rain spoil your trip, though. Rain usually comes in quick downpours so just take a solid rain jacket; you’ll still get to enjoy several hours of sunlight.

Best Time to Visit – Country Breakdown

Best Months to Travel: November-February, March-September (Southeast Coast)

What’s the climate in Thailand like? 

Most of Thailand is dry and comfortable to visit from November-February. In March and April, the temps start to rise until they become horrible in June. The rains start in May.

The exception to this is the southeastern coast of Thailand (Koh Samui, Hat Yai, etc). The rains come a bit later here.

Best Months to Travel: November-April (North & South), February-July (Center)

What’s the climate in Vietnam like? 

Vietnam is a weird one: the North and South have similar rainy seasons, but the center’s is a bit later in the year. The absolute perfect time to visit the whole country would be in February and March.

Best Months to Travel: October-April

What’s the climate in Cambodia and Laos like? 

Pretty straightforward with only two distinct seasons: a wet one and a dry one.

In the wet summer season, downpours can washout dirt roads, and the heat can be OPPRESSIVE. Be prepared for lots of lazy days of doing nothing if traveling to Cambodia or Laos during the summer season.

Best Months to Travel: October-March

What’s the climate in Myanmar like? 

Typical Southeast Asia. The dry season in Myanmar actually runs until May but the temperatures at the end of the month are just WAY too much. June is unbearable to visit.

Visiting during March or October (shoulder months) are great times.

Best Months to Travel: November-February (West Coast), March-September (East Coast)

What’s the climate in Malaysia like? 

Pretty hot and humid all year round but each coast has opposing rainy seasons. Stick to one coast depending on when you’re visiting Malaysia.

Note the Cameron Highlands are temperate all year-round with a rainy season from September-December.

Best Months to Travel: May-September

What’s the climate in Indonesia like? 

In most of the country, the wet, hot season runs from October to April. Around May, the rains start to subside, temps drop, and tourists return. Visit Indonesia in May before prices go up.

Northern parts of Indonesia, like Maluku and Raja Ampat, experience the wet season in OPPOSITE months. October-April is the best time to visit these.

Best Months to Travel:  November-May

What’s the climate in the Philippines like? 

Not quite as hot as continental Southeast Asia, which makes travel in April and May more viable. But June-August should definitely be avoided – this is typhoon season and storms can very dangerous. Most ferries and resorts shut down during this time.

What to Pack for Southeast Asia

An adventure backpacking in Southeast Asia means navigating a certain level of chaos. If this is your first backpacking trip, or even if you’re a veteran, you gotta make sure you’re equipped for the job!

Make sure that packing list is spot on. For every adventure, there are a few things I never go travelling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Is Southeast Asia Safe? This is easily one of the most common questions I’m asked.

Every country on earth has a certain degree of crime and the associated shitty people. Southeast Asia is no different. Though violent attacks on backpackers are extremely rare, they can happen.

A common problem in Southeast Asian cities is the motorcycle bag snatch. Two dudes roll up on a motorbike and grab your purse or day bag and they ride off into the night (or day). I have heard reports of this gig being particularly rampant in the touristic areas of Phnom Penh.

Keep an eye on your stuff, especially when you are in the big cities and crowded bus stations. Be smart hiding your valuables and money when travelling and things will be chill. In general, Southeast Asia is one of the safest places in the world to go backpacking, so fear not!

Wear a helmet when you hop on a motorbike in Asia . Despite being an experienced driver, I’ve had a total of 3 crashes in Southeast Asia over the last 10 years. On the one occasion, I wasn’t wearing a helmet, I split my head open and had to go to the hospital. Your mum doesn’t want to get the call about your insides being on the outside…

To stay safe, every backpacker should follow the common-sense rules of safe backpacking .  In general, being out late, drunk, and alone is a recipe for trouble anywhere in the world.

If ever you run into the very rare hold-up situation, give them what they want and don’t resist. Your iPhone and wallet are never worth dying over, ever!

• Is Thailand Safe to Visit?
• Is Vietnam Safe to Visit?
• Is Cambodia Safe to Visit?
• Is Myanmar Safe to Visit?
• Is Indonesia Safe to Visit?
• Is Malaysia Safe to Visit?

Sex, Drugs, and Rock n’ Roll in Southeast Asia

There’s a reason that those seeking something a little hedonistic oftentimes get stuck in Southeast Asia… You can buy ketamine from certain pharmacies and the acid seems to be ubiquitous amongst travellers. Many Southeast Asian countries have very harsh drug penalty laws though, and even without harsh laws, there are some truly crippling fines dished out.

Drugs on the road is pretty much a guaranteed experience – and in Southeast Asia more so than ever. There are the magic mushroom shakes popular in Thailand and Cambodia; there are the strong and freely available prescription meds too.

Plus, doobies are a staple of almost every hostel. So, if you’re gonna do the good stuff, then stay hydrated and watch out for ya mates!

What seems to go hand in hand with travelling even more so than drugs? Why, love and sex of course! But we don’t like to have frank and honest discussions about sex on the road out of fear we’ll be too judgemental – or not judgmental enough.

At the end of the day, love and sex will on the road is inevitable so we might as well have a conversation about it.

Remember that free love is about love as much as it is about sex. And I’d be dancing around the elephant in the room if I didn’t talk about how easy it is to engage with sex tourism in Asia.

Regardless of your beliefs and thoughts on prostitution, remember this is another person with thoughts, feelings, and a life outside of the sex industry too. You are not superior to these people; you just happen to be from a more privileged background.

Go to Asia and have the time of your life, do the things you’ve dreamed of – but be respectful along the way. Travelling the world makes you an ambassador for your country , which is awesome. We can make a positive impact on people when we travel and get rid of any ugly stereotypes that may be associated with our countries…

Travel Insurance for Southeast Asia

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

As I said before Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur are Southeast Asia’s two main international hubs. Most backpackers start their journeys visiting and staying in Kuala Lumpur or Bangkok for a spell. Budget flights throughout the region will almost certainly have you passing through one of those airports.

If you are looking to do the classic Southeast Asia Loop or the Banana Pancake Trail, then starting off by staying in Bangkok is the obvious choice. Flights into Vietnam through Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are getting increasingly less expensive as well, so keep an eye out if the prices keep falling.

Visas and Entry Requirements for Southeast Asian Countries

The biggest headache of travelling is getting a visa organised! The rules are subject to change at a moment’s notice and you never know what the land border will actually be like. All I can say is do your research, (politely) refuse to pay bribes that you don’t have to, and get organised in advance.

Luckily, most Southeast Asian countries have pretty straightforward visa requirements. Tourism is their bread and butter after all.

• Visa on arrival: Visa-free travel, 30 days for most countries.
• Extension: Yes, one-time, usually for 30 additional days, $60.
• Notes: Those arriving by land usually receive a 15-day visa-free waiver.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, but only for a small group of countries.
• Evisa: Yes, 30-day validity, $25, longer stays possible.
• Extension:  Yes, but you’ll need to leave the country and reapply for the evisa.
• Notes: Evisas are not valid at many border crossings.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, 30 days for most countries, $37.
• Evisa: Yes, same price and length as visa-on-arrival.
• Extension: Yes, one-time, usually for 30 additional days, $48.
• Notes: If crossing from Laos or Thailand, visas will cost more if you pay in baht or kip.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, 30-day validity, $35.
• Evisa: Yes, 30-days, price varies
• Extension: Yes, $2/day, filed in Vientiane .
• Notes:  The evisa is inconvenient, most travelers may opt for visa-on-arrivals.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, 90-day validity, no charge.
• Extension: Possible at embassy.
• Notes: Malaysia is very easy to enter but takes overstays very seriously.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, between 30-90 days, free.
• Extension: Possible to file online.
• Notes: Like Malaysia – easy to get in, just don’t overstay.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, 30-day validty for most nations, $35.
• Extension: Only available to those with visa-on-arrival or prearranged visa.
• Notes: Foerginers can enter Indonesia on a visa-waiver program for free but they will not be able to extend stay. Some ports of entry require prearranged visa.
• Visa on arrival: Visa-waiver (30-day validity) or visa-on-arrival (59-day validity) available.
• Extension: Possible for those with visa-on-arrival.
• Notes:  You will need proof of an outbound flight to enter the Philippines.

The most popular and rewarding way of independent travel in Southeast Asia is to rent or buy a motorbike. It also helps if you can rent for longer periods of time. Most shops in Bali charge around $5 a day for a motorbike, but I was able to rent one for only $50 a month!

With a full tank of gas costing only around $1, you can cover a lot of ground without burning a hole in your wallet if you’ve got a long-term motorbike rental. Pair this with a proper motorcycle tent , and you’ll hardly ever spend a dime!

Common Types of Transport in Southeast Asia

You can easily buy a bike in Thailand or Vietnam (or anywhere really) and then pass it on to a local or fellow traveller when your time backpacking Southeast Asia is through. Don’t buy the first piece of shit bike you come across!

If possible, try to get the bike checked out by someone who knows bikes. It would be a shame to buy a bike just to have it break down the next day. Again, always wear a fucking helmet!

Taking local buses and trains (when possible) is the most economical way of getting around. Sometimes, this will mean rocking up at the bus or train station and sussing out a ticket, but it’s getting easier than ever to sort your journeys in advance.

Bookaway is an epic online booking platform where you can book bus, train, and ferry tickets in advance for a nominal fee – this is way better than rocking up at the bus or train station and hoping you can get a ticket – because sometimes you can’t.

One can find budget flights in Southeast Asia, but these flights and taking ferry boats to the islands add up. So pick and choose where you want to go and budget accordingly.

For short distances,  tuk-tuks are your best bet just keep an eye on your shit and keep your wits about you when in a tuk-tuk . Luckily, Grab (similar to Uber) is now readily available in several countries in the region, including Thailand!

Grab is hands down the best way to get around cities, the price is locked in on the app so you can’t get ripped off, AND it will always work out cheaper than travelling by taxi or rickshaw.

Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia

Hitchhiking should not prove to be too difficult and in some countries, it is fairly easy to get picked up. You have to be persistent and make sure the locals understand where you need to go or you will end up getting dropped at a bus station.

Some locals decide to turn their car into a taxi cab the minute they spot a foreigner on the highway. I would never assume that the ride is free initially. Always ask to avoid having an awkward scenario in which the driver who picked you up is demanding an unexpected fee.

Due to the large number of backpackers riding motorbikes across Southeast Asia, it is possible to score a ride with some fellow travellers. Generally, hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though you still have to be smart and use good judgment.

Onwards Travel from Southeast Asia

Whether you are heading home or carrying on travelling, budget international flights are your best bet. Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur is where you will find the lowest prices.

India and South Asia may beckon the vagabond to continue their travels. Or, Australia and New Zealand might get the backpacker to settle down in a sense and get a backpacking job .

Many backpackers pop over to Australia or New Zealand for 6 months to a year on a working holiday visa, make some cash, and come right back to Southeast Asia for their second round of backpacking escapades.

• Backpacking Australia
• Backpacking New Zealand
• Backpacking Fiji
• Backpacking Oceania

Working in Southeast Asia is certainly popular – though not especially lucrative. Scoring a gig as an ex-pat of some kind is always great, but most backpackers won’t fall into that category. Since work visas are sometimes difficult to get, a lot of the work ends up being done under the table.

That’s not to say it’s all dodgy run businesses, of course. There are a surprising amount of opportunities for backpackers to find work in Asia, but don’t expect to make a lot of money. You’re here for the lifestyle and experience, not the cash.

Popular jobs include dive instructor, English teacher, or some kind of hospitality. How easy it is to get a job will depend on the country. But a more popular way of making money while on the road in Asia is to work as a freelancer or digital nomad – this is where Asia truly shines.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

The Digital Nomad Scene in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is THE most popular place for digital nomads to base themselves (based on recent digital nomad stats ). Places like Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Bali are thriving nomad hubs that attract people from all over the world. Kuala Lumpur and many large Vietnamese cities are quickly following suit.

Southeast Asia is a paradise for remote workers for many reasons:

• The cost of living is very low.
• Internet is ubiquitous and reliable.
• Expat communities are strong.
• Local economies are booming.
• Visas relatively easy to organize.
• Conferences and events are frequently organized.
• There’s a lot to do in your free time.

If you’re a digital nomad or someone who wants to give the lifestyle a try, you can’t go wrong living in Southeast Asia.

Teaching English in Southeast Asia

For another way of living or extending your trip to Southeast Asia, people have been teaching English abroad for a long time. Though you won’t always need one, having a TEFL certificate will increase your chances of scoring a gig.

We suggest using MyTEFL to get accredited. Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with MyTEFL (simply enter the code PACK50 ).

I think that working as an English teacher does give you a deeper appreciation of the country that you’re travelling in. You spend time fostering connections to a place and you are, ultimately, teaching people a skill that will carry them far in life.

Volunteering in Southeast Asia

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst helping your host community. There are plenty of different volunteer projects in Southeast Asia including teaching, construction, agriculture, and pretty much anything.

There are so many different volunteer opportunities in Southeast Asia to suit any skill set. You could support communities doing social work in Vietnam, help out on farms in Thailand, teach English in Cambodia, or volunteer in a hostel in Laos.

Other opportunities include bartending, doing community work, and web development. Short-term volunteers should apply for a tourist visa before arriving, but you’ll need the appropriate permits to stay longer depending on what country you’re in. 

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers are great places to start looking for volunteer work – but it doesn’t cover you for everything . Always tread with extra caution, especially if you’re working with kids or animals.

Ask the average Joe what they know about the history of Southeast Asia and most will be able to think as far back as the Vietnam War, maybe the Japanese occupation of Thailand. Beyond that, Southeast Asia is kind of a mystery.

But the history of Southeast Asia is long, complex, varied, and extremely fascinating. Before the Europeans arrived – the French in Vietnam, English in Burma, and Dutch in Indonesia – there were great kingdoms: the Toungoo, Khmer, and Malaca Sultanate, to name a few. Through these channels, Buddhism, Islam, trade, and science all flowed.

It is quite difficult to talk about “Southeast Asian Culture” because it would be a generalization; there are just so many different aspects.

What travellers SHOULD know about Southeast Asia is that it is, in fact, way deeper than it seems. Thanks to a long history of colonization that dates back before the Europeans – Indians, Arabs, and the East Asians all settled in SE Asia – the region is enormously diverse. Food, religion, politics, customs, all of the things that SE Asia does so well, come in part from external sources.

Of course, the colours of people’s personalities also change from country to country. Thais are legendarily nice (and open to just about anything). Malaysians are incredibly diverse ethnically and thus incredibly tolerable. Cambodians are the most laidback people in Southeast Asia by far. All of these traits become more obvious as you spend time in each country.

Don’t stay on the established Southeast Asian backpacking route if you want to get to know the locals. Koh San Road, Hanoi’s Beer Street, Kuta, and all the other tourist hotspots are poor representations of the culture.

The real Southeast Asia is found at the plastic tables on the street, inside the bike repair shops, and in the dusty corners of the region.

There are people who go backpacking in Southeast Asia just for the food. And for good reason, too: it’s fantastic! More than just delicious, it’s also cheap and hugely varied depending on where you are.

You can definitely expect a lot of rice, noodles, and curry in Southeast Asia. Luckily though, no two of these are ever the same. For example, noodles in Vietnam are traditionally served in broth ( pho being the most famous). Thailand, on the other hand, usually prefers dry noodles.

This is just the tip of the gastronomic iceberg that is food in Southeast Asia. And honestly, it’s really difficult to lump everything into one category. I will simply say that countries like Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand consistently rank among the most delicious in the world, every year.

Because of its tropical climate, the fruit in Southeast Asia is also ridiculously good. Borneo is practically the Garden of Eden where just about everything grows, and the local markets in all the major cities have incredible selections to choose from. Be prepared to eat lots of fruit on your backpacking trip, especially bananas when served with pancakes.

I definitely recommend eating at the local markets and street food stalls. The prices are super low and the food is just as good as anything you’d find in a restaurant. Just keep on an eye out for sanitation – make sure the food is fresh and things look clean (enough).

Food to Try in Southeast Asia

There are some dishes you simply HAVE to try when you go to Southeast Asia:

• Banh Mi Thit (Vietnam) – The best sandwich in Asia.
• Pho (Vietnam) – Noodles served in broth w/ extras.
• Pad Thai (Thailand) – Dry noodles w/ peanut sauce and chilis.
• Tom Yung Goong (Thailand) – Soup made with lemongrass, herbs, and shrimp.
• Satay (Malaysia, Indonesia) – Grilled meat skewers.
• Fish Amok (Cambodia) – Spicy fish coconut curry served in a banana leaf
• Burmese Curry (Myanmar) – Local take on the dish that is famously good.
• Shan-style noodles (Myanmar) – Thin-sliced, flat noodles.
• Nasi Goreng (Indonesia) – Fried rice.
• Chili crab (Singapore) – Singapore’s claim to fame.
• Larb/Laap (Laos, Cambodia) – Beef salad with lots of seasoning.
• Tam Mak Houng (Laos) – Spicy green papaya salad.

Southeast Asia is a fantastic budget destination that is great for your everyday travels, but it’s also amazing because it allows you to splurge on some truly unique experiences.

You can go surfing, sky diving, bungee jumping, or any number of exciting things! But there are two big-ticket items that grabbed my heart more than any other: trekking and SCUBA diving .

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Trekking in Southeast Asia

Each country in Southeast Asia offers up trekking experiences that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Whether you prefer guided or independent trekking, there is ample hiking on hand for every backpacker to enjoy. Pack yourself the right adventure gear , and go do something crazy!

• Taman Negara, Malaysia : Explore the oldest rainforest in the world and spend the night in a bungalow in the jungle (for free).
• Kibungan Circuit, The Philippines: A 3-mountain circuit in the town of Kibungan in Benguet . The circuit, which takes anywhere from 2 to 3 days to complete, spans across the mountains of Tagpaya , Oten , and Tagpew .
• Shan State, Myanmar : Shan state is a popular place to go trekking and there are some great hikes around Kachin state as well. You will likely encounter no other travelers whilst trekking here.
• Phongsali, Laos : If you want to get off-the-grid and go trekking in Laos, I recommend making the long journey to the northern town of Phongsali . Though tough to reach, it’s equally rewarding for trekkers. While there isn’t much to do in the actual town, there are plenty of opportunities to visit remote hill tribes through the Provincial Tourism Office.
• Ring of Fire, Indonesia: While the beautiful beaches in Indonesia may be the major draw for tourists, there are also plenty of opportunities for adventures on land. Located in the Ring of Fire, Indonesia is home to well over 100 volcanoes. Trekking to the summit of some of these volcanoes is one experience you won’t want to miss when backpacking Indonesia. In addition to the aforementioned Mt. Bromo  and  Mt. Rinjani , you can also scale  Mt. Agung on Bali or  Mt. Egon on Flores .

Scuba Diving in Southeast Asia

If you have been paying attention, you should be aware now that Southeast Asia is fucking paradise when it comes to scuba diving. Without a doubt, Southeast Asia is the cheapest place in the world to become a certified diver. That fact coupled with some of the best dive sites in the world make scuba diving a no-brainer whilst you are backpacking Southeast Asia.

If you want to go diving in Thailand, go for it! Though I must reinforce how great diving is in Malaysia and Indonesia. The reef systems are in better shape and you won’t have to contend with quite so many tourists. Bali has loads of diving sites , and that’s just the start of the underwater sightseeing.

And if you aren’t up to learning to SCUBA, then you can always learn to freedive or snorkel. There is truly a whole other world waiting to be discovered once you leave the surface!

You’ve got questions about Southeast Asia and we’ve got answers!

Is backpacking in Southeast Asia safe?

Yes. Violent crime against tourists is very low in this part of the world – and even petty theft isn’t that common. That being said, you should still watch out for your valuables in very touristy areas. The thing to watch out for here is food/water bugs that can really knock your health back.

Where can I backpack in Southeast Asia?

Currently, all countries in Southeast Asia are open for backpackers, though Myanmar is still (sadly) risky to visit.

How long do you need to backpack Southeast Asia?

A backpacker could get a good idea of the region by spending 3 – 6 months there. Really, you could spend a lifetime exploring Southeast Asia and still have oodles left to explore. But this is enough time to explore a heap of places without feeling too rushed.

How much does it cost to backpack Southeast Asia for 6 months?

Southeast Asia is a blessing to broke backpackers. You can live comfortably here on $10 a day and splurge every so often on unique experiences. Including flights, insurance, and wiggle room within your budget, 6 months in Southeast Asia should cost between $5000 – $10 000.

What’s the best country to backpack in Southeast Asia?

This is a contentious question! My personal favourite is Vietnam simply because their food is my favourite. Aside from that, it’s cheap, full of epic motorbike adventures, and deadly rice wine!

Be good to Southeast Asia. It’s an incredible region that truly does have a little bit of something for everyone – all while being super cheap. We risk ruining a place when we don’t appreciate how special it is, and Asia is pretty freaking special.

Whether you stop by just one of its countries for a short SCUBA diving trip, or whether you get lost on the banana pancake trail for a year or so, you know you’re in for a good time. There are rice paddies, ancient temples, piles of spicy noodles, and some of the friendliest faces in the world waiting for you here.

Now, I hope I’ve been a source of inspiration in this guide but I also hope you’re ready to forge your own path through this great region. Because there are so many offbeat adventures and epic trekking to be done – you don’t need to get lost in the endless supply of cheap beer.

So off you go, you broke backpacker! I hope to see you deep in the Malaysian jungle or ordering your fifth banh mi of the week in Vietnam. Whatever you choose to do in Southeast Asia, it’s sure to be an adventure.

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Updated February 2023

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Will Hatton

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40 Comments

Hi! Me and a friend of mine are planning on backpacking in Asia from start of April to beginning of July. The only problem is, we are scared it is going to be too hot and humid. We are both from norway and not really used to super high temeratures, so my question is basically: what route can we take, without dying from the extreme heat? It does not have to be in the southeast of asia, but more asia in general. Love your website btw. Love from 20 year old adventurers and coldblooded girl.

Head to the islands, riversides and coastlines. If you are really struggling, follow the lead of locals and do things early morning and late evening to avoid the hottest part of the day. Dress appropriately in layers that you easily remove. Keeping properly hydrated will also help you acclimatise .

Hi there, anyone who has read this brilliant article should definitely try out south east Asia, there are so many amazing experiences on offer. Me and my partner took six months off work a few years back and decided to go travelling around southeast Asia. We visited Vietnam first, then Laos then we discovered our new home – Thailand which is where we spent most of our time as we fell in love with the people, the culture and just the country in whole. We loved it so much that we decided to take the leap and move to the island of Koh Samui. We hope to one day be as travelled as the owners of this amazing blog. 10 out of 10 read!

This was amazing…leaving in 3 days for a year to SE Asia and this post nearly brought me to tears of joy with the emotions it generated. So excited about what is to come!

Superb blog

Will, thank You for the effort and time You invested in writing this informative and useful article about backpacking around southeast Asia. Also, I really appreciate the fact that through this article You inspire other people to travel on a budget, which is something that I also encourage 🙂 Keep up the great work!

Hi Will, thanks for the info! Two questions: Can one easily get through customs when you enter a country and stay for thirty days without having a return ticket back to the US and not knowing what country you will visit next? I bought a one way ticket from San Francisco to Singapore and going to make up my trip as I go over 6 months. 2nd question: Is it safe to leave your MacBook or other valuables in a hostel while you are at the beach? How do you protect your belongings when you want to go swimming and your stuff is on the beach. Thank you for your answers!

Hi Jamie, great to hear from you!

Regarding return tickets and immigration, every country and airline has a different policy on return and onward tickets. Yes, even your airline can refuse to fly you if they feel it’s a risk immigration at the other end may not allow you entry based on a one way ticket. Your best bet is to research throughly on forums and travel sites to see the experiences of others. There are some destinations that are well known for NOT allowing entry without an onward ticket, such as The Philippines. Other destinations may allow you entry with none, some may allow you to say you are leaving overland on an approximate date. It’s a calculated risk, onward ticket companies, expensive full refundable tickets and cheap throw away tickets are also options if you find yourself if a pinch.

Unfortunately its a fact of long term travel, eventually you will probably have stuff stolen, lost or broken, no matter how careful or diligent you are. Following are my golden rules for reducing the bad feels of such an experience as much as possible.

1. Back up your shit, regularly! Ultimately the data inside the device will prove far more valuable to you than the device itself. 2. Lock up your shit, don’t leave your stuff unattended in dorms or on the beach, keep your valuables on you if possible when travelling and lock things away while in accommodation. 3. If you have a bad vibe about a place or person, follow your feeling and use your common sense. 4. If you have expensive gear, insure it correctly, make sure you know where the receipts are before your trip. 5. If something happens, get a police report. 6. Don’t take anything travelling with you that you aren’t willing to have lost, stolen or trashed. Leave it at home. 7. When it’s gone, it’s gone. Theft can happen anywhere, don’t spend too long dwelling on the event or let it be a singularly defining experience of a destination.

Have a great trip!

Great blog, really good and usefull info in it. Thanks a lot.

I would so recommend getting vaccinations in the country once you arrive – we got them at medconsult clinic ( a british doctor based in Bangkok), saved a fortune compared to the UK for the exact same vaccine – got typhoid, japanese encephalitis and a hep b booster done.

Excellent information! Thanks for sharing.

I am really appreciative of this blog post. My boyfriend and I had been dreaming of backpacking SE Asia on a shoestring budget for some time now. He is Norwegian, and I am from the USA, but have been living with him in Oslo for the last three months. My visa extension was just denied, and he cannot get a visa for the US until January, so, we decided to push up our dreams and go backpacking and not be split up! We are starting in Bali, May 16th and I had NO idea where to go after that. I want to be adventurous and go where the wind blows, but also have some sort of a plan as we are on the smallest of budgets and HAVE to figure out how to make some money online, or find volunteer locations to house us. Anyway, this has helped me so much, as we are planning a 6 month trip right now, and are leaving in less than a month!

Thanks for dropping by! We hope that your backpacking trip in SE Asia is amazing!

What a long list of South East Asian countries to visit. The photos you used here just enticed me to add some of these places that I haven’t visited in my bucket list! I can’t wait!

Such amazing post!!

Thanks man!

Great post! I cannot wait to visit Asia next summer, my friend and I are looking for volunteering opportunities in Asia, we would like to know if it is possible and easy to find as we tavel around. We will really appreciate any kind of information about that.

If you’d like to find work as you travel through Southeast Asia, then try asking around English schools. Otherwise, Worldpackers is an excellent way to find work exchanges as well.

Thanks for the informative travel guide! My girlfriend and I are planning a trip to Thailand in June and were looking for something like this! We are planning on staying in Southeast Asia for a while, so we have plenty of time to do everything there is to do.

This may be the best travel article I have ever read and I have read a lot! Massive amount of useful information and I love that you added in the message about being respectful as a backpacker. I was actually warned in Japan by a young Belgian girl working at a hostel that drunk backpackers had a negative impact on her trip thru Vietnam. I’m on an 8 month trip thru Asia but do to some rookie mistakes will only have 3 weeks to get from Ha Tien, Vietnam to Singapore. Super disappointed not to have more time to explore Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia but your article gave me hope that I will at least see some amazing things along the mad dash. Thank you for all the time and effort!

Really glad you found this guide helpful and informative. Enjoy the rest of your trip!

I saw your Myanmar political situation post was made in February, do you know if there has been any change in government?

Just a little correction Will. Its “Lake Toba” not “Lake Tabo”. It`s in the 2nd paragraph below the Penang street art image. Anyway, if you guys planning on visiting West Sumatera, Sipora Island or Nias Island hit me up for some local tips.

Thanks for the correction, cheers!

Love his advice, thank you! Would you say it’s cheaper and better to do backpacking alone on a whim with rough idea of things to do rather than paying for a set tour prior to arriving? Some set tours are like 2500 excluding flights and I’m just wondering if it would be cheaper to get to Thailand, get a bike and then do any internal train bus journeys whenever I want.

Personally, I think paying for a tour in an ‘easy’ country like Thailand is a waste of money. Go with the flow, it’s probably the easiest region in the world to explore 🙂

Hi, Dig the site. Thanks for setting it up. My name is John. I’m from Texas. I’m currently in The Philippines. Looking for the best deal on a round trip ticket, from Manila to Cambodia, and back again . Any helpful hints?

Not a flight hacker or travel agent brother 😉

Wow @ Will – super extensive write up! Some of our friends just asked us for recommendations how to travel SE Asia. We send them your post together with our own experiences (which were much less exhaustive). 🙂

I see you mentioned that the hammock tent has been quite useful, though regards to safety, sleeping out in the open with your belongings. What exactly do you do with your pack and such? Also as a solo female traveler, would you still recommend this mode of accommodation?

Hammocking, and hammock tents, are an awesome way to sleep out as they don’t weigh as much as a traditional tent… However, I would not encourage sleeping out in a hammock EVERYWHERE – You need to pick your spot wisely, make sure it’s cool to camp there etc. I keep all my valuables in a daypack which acts as my pillow. My main pack I put under the hammock.

Truly an amazing post filled with so much information and more. Me and my boyfriend are planning to travel south east Asia for 7 weeks at the end of the year. You have given me so much information for us to digest and use. Thank you so much!

You are very welcome! Happy to be of service 🙂 Have an awesome time traveling in Southeast Asia!

Dude this was an epic write up and has gotten my partner and myself super excited to head off on our 6 month journey to South East Asia in October. Looks like Malaysia has now made the cut, and we are looking into adding The Philippines back on the agenda after getting some pretty mixed reviews. Wise words and sound advice, thanks again!

You are welcome! I’m glad you find it useful 😀

Great post!

I just came back from Thailand, Indonesia and Philippines, and I am 100% going back. Beautiful countries and each with their own unique cultures as well. I went for 40 days! Here’s a video of my travels:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osXq2N6e5aA&t=4s

I hope it inspires everyone to travel to these same places I did! 🙂

What a RAD article…thank you 🙂 I am about to embark on my first backpacking adventure around SEA and this was really helpful!

Great Post! Could get some very good information for my own worldtravel. Which country is your favorite one?

Myanmar and Thailand are my favourites…

As a seasoned spearfisher, I really need to put Asia on my agenda. I actually have a trip planned for the end of this year for Thailand and will definitely look into some fishing whilst I am there. I am only afraid of one thing. That I won’t want to return home!

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3 Weeks in Southeast Asia: 9 itineraries

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

A perfect itinerary doesn’t exist, but an epic one can be experienced . There’s no such thing as a perfect itinerary when you’re immersed in a culture very new to you. There are places and things you wish to visit and try, but there are bumps on the road to consider.

Do you have the budget? How good are you with directions? What language do they speak? Are the locals, and will they show you the way? An epic trip starts the moment you realize that sometimes your perfect itinerary can go unexpectedly wrong.

I’ve travelled Southeast Asia in so many different ways in the last 8 years . On my first trip, I visited Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar for three months. On my second trip, I was in Thailand, Cambodia, and Malaysia for one month.

On the most recent trip, I was in Vietnam and Indonesia for three weeks. There’s no “correct way” to explore Southeast Asia. Only good planning, thirst for adventure, and willingness to accept mishaps.

Coursing through top spots in Southeast Asia can fill up your exploration bubble, and all the best places can’t fit in a single article. And many times, you may want to travel to all destinations in a single day. But that’s not possible .

So, I made an excellent way to chop up your 3 weeks in Southeast Asia itinerary in a smart way of planning to not overwhelm you. Perhaps after this trip, just like me, you won’t be able to stop coming back for more.

IMPORTANT TIP : This is a long-form article, and there are 9 itineraries. I recommend you click the “Table of Contents” to make navigating easier. That will help you determine which part of the article is most interesting and helpful for your planning.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO SOUTHEAST ASIA

There is so much information I could give for travelling around Southeast Asia. But then this will be a book! Here are a few must-know and vital information for exploring this magnificent and diverse region.

When is the best time to go to Southeast Asia

It varies a lot. Although the countries around Southeast Asia are located close to one another, the seasons are still very different for each . For example, the typhoon season in the Philippines is between June and October, but in Thailand, it starts earlier, around April.

For Vietnam, it varies from north, central, to south . The best time to visit Indonesia is between July and August, but for surfing, it’s April all the way through October.

December to January is the safest bet when it comes to visiting Southeast Asia , but it’s the busiest. So, the prices are high, and everything must be booked in advance due to the Christmas and New Year crowd.

What is the average cost of 3 weeks in Southeast Asia

I personally would say around $1,000 is a good budget if you plan to visit 1-2 countries . You can stay in private rooms and eat at nicer restaurants. If you’re a backpacker , you might be able to do it at $800 , but that excludes flights between countries and tickets from and to home.

It’s safe to say around $1,500 is a great budget for 20 days in Southeast Asia , and you can count on staying at better hotels and booking premium tours.

For a luxury trip such as a honeymoon, plan to spend around $3,000 or more for two people . This will allow you to stay in luxury resorts, join culinary classes, and private tours, and dine at fantastic restaurants.

Visas to Southeast Asia

Each countries in Southeast Asia has its own visa policies, although most of them offer visa-free or you can apply for an evisa online. I always use this site when I personally process my evisa or visa-on-arrival.

Other travel tips

When travelling around Southeast Asia, I use these sites and tools to book my hotel, flights, tours, and travel insurance. I like how many of these allow me to cancel at the last minute in case my travel plan changes.

CREATING 3 WEEKS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA ITINERARY

There are about 11 countries in Southeast Asia, and each differs in geography, culture, and cuisine.

• Philippines
• Timor Leste

The Philippines, for example, is the gateway to gems of white-sand beaches. Laos has been named The Land of Serenity and Bountiful Nature. That’s just two countries. I’ve listed some of the wondrous combinations of places to be in Southeast Asia.

Package tours

A package tour is when you book a multi-day trip, and hand all the planning and booking to a tour company. They arrange the hotel, activities, food, transport, guide, and porters. The first time I did this was in Nepal as I was doing the 14-day trek to Everest Base Camp – it was worth it!

So, if you’re a person who prefers to simply pay a company, book your own flight to Southeast Asia, and show up at the airport, booking a package tour might be more suitable for you .

Let’s say you have 3 weeks in Southeast Asia . You can book an entire 18 to 20-day tour. But you can also do two tours; a 10-day trip to Thailand and Cambodia and then a 10-day trip to Indonesia. Or you can book a 15-day tour and leave yourself with 5 days of doing what you want either at the beginning or end of the tour.

If this is not something for you, below is a list of various travel itineraries for 20 days in Southeast Asia.

Itinerary #1: Vietnam + Cambodia

Vietnam and Cambodia are neighbours and ideal for 3 weeks in Southeast Asia , and they border each other. However, they differ almost entirely. Stepping into Cambodia from Vietnam almost feels like you’ve been warped to the other side of the planet.

It’s advisable for travellers to visit Vietnam and Cambodia together , given that both countries offer a wealth of natural and historic sites. Both countries are very touristy, but you can still see sites established way back in the 9th-15th century.

Khmer Empire sites and Angkor temples attract tourists to Cambodia, considering it’s one of the world’s wonders and offers bricks and layers of the country’s stories. At the same time, Vietnam is the land of caves and, simultaneously, the country in Southeast Asia with the most cable cars.

Aside from the vast history, the enormous maze of rivers or the Mekong River is famously known between the two countries.

MUST-READ: 3 weeks in Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary and this specific 3 weeks in Cambodia itinerary

North of Vietnam (Hanoi, Sa Pa, Halong) for 1 Week

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, draws its complex cultural background from the French Inquisition. You can still witness French infrastructures like century-old Gothic churches and opera houses.

What makes them unique is through time, French perceptions have gradually been infused with the rich culture of Southeast Asia. 

Sa Pa, not far from the borders of China, is a sight that lies in the beautiful mountains of the northwest. It is a great spot for tourists wanting to experience naturally preserved golden and green fields of rice terraces. You must spend at least 1 night in Sa Pa and do a rice field trek. You can also hike the highest point of Indochina – the Fansipan.

It’s also a must to experience the popularity of Halong Bay on your weekly journey. It surrounds the bay with fine sand beaches and emerald colours of water, perfect for overnight cruises.  

MOVING AROUND : Arrive in Hanoi (Noi Ba International Airport) which is 1 hour from downtown Hanoi. It’s recommended to book an airport pickup instead of using a local taxi to avoid any taxi scam. You can also book a ride or taxi through the Grab app). You can take a night bus, minivan, or train from Hanoi to Sa Pa . But you have to go back to Hanoi and take a bus to Halong Bay

Central Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang) for 5 days

Central Vietnam stands as the heart of Vietnam. It is packed with fantastic beaches and stunning national parks. If you still have the energy, consider walking around the streets of this well-preserved Ancient Town along the central coast. 

On the other hand, Hue, Vietnam, is the house of tombs of ancient emperors. You can walk around the perfume pagoda, one of the waterways locals cherish. Exploring Princess Temple, Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, Alba Thanh Tan, and Royal Theatre has got to your itinerary when planning to visit Vietnam and Cambodia together. 

Da Nang is a valuable trading port in Vietnam. Here rests the dragon bridge with its unique design and the best place to experience light shows, and as the lights turn out, the dragon breathes actual fire. It’s also a more metropolitan city with towering skyscrapers than Hoi An and Hue.

MOVING AROUND : Book a flight from Hanoi to Da Nang , the travel time is about 2 hours. You can take a bus from the airport to Da Nang or Hoi An or also arrange an airport pickup . Choose between these Da Nang and Hoi An as your base. These two places are very close to one another. From either city, you can reach Hue by bus or a private car.

Cambodia (Phnom Penh) for 2 Days

Phnom Penh is a hub for both the Khmer empire and French inquisitors. It is also one of the busiest capitals of Cambodia. The place is considered a Gem of Indochina because three rivers merge and pass through Phnom Penh. The city still receives a lot of commendations from tourists for its charm of numerous places to see.

You can stay for a while and mesmerize by the Royal Palace, Tuol Sleng, Wat Phnom, National Museums, Theatre Shows, and many more. Around the market are vendors selling hand-made and locally created crafts of carvings, paintings, silks, silver, gems, and antiques — a perfect spot to buy personal collections, key chains, souvenirs, and gifts.

MOVING AROUND : You can get to Phnom Penh by taking a flight from Da Nang . You can also travel on land by taking a train from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City then taking a 6-hour bus to Phnom Penh . But this will easily take 1-2 day travel time.

Siem Reap and Battambang for 5 Days 

Siem Reap is the gateway to the magical and mesmerizing Angkor Wat of Cambodia, easily one of the most popular temples in Southeast Asia . Angkor Wat is one of the most massive religious monuments in the world. The site has around 162 hectares, which can be tiring as you walk, duck, temple hop, and learn more about the ancient temple ruins.

Aside from Angkor Wat, Siem Reap extends its myriad cultures to its night market, floating village, landmine museum, old market, Cambodian circus, and many more. You have enough time to cover Angkor temples and other attraction sites in three days.

MOVING AROUND : The travel time between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap is about 5-6 hours by bus for $10-$15.

Itinerary #2: Thailand + Cambodia

Thailand and Cambodia are also the right combinations of destinations for staying 3 weeks in Southeast Asia. They are both Buddhist kingdoms with extraordinary wonders. Thailand is in northern Cambodia and can easily be traversed by air or crossed by land. Tourists may want to consider heading first to Thailand and end the trip on Cambodia’s cheaper and solid beach party vibes. 

Thailand may be wealthier and more well-developed than Cambodia. Still, there is so much to experience, like the hidden culture of the Khmer Rouge and its dark ruling of the country. It’s also where you will see the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat.

MOVING AROUND : You will mostlikely arrive in Bangkok, however, I recommend you take a flight right away to Krabi/Phuket. You can explore Bangkok later before you go to Cambodia.

CHECK-OUT: How to spend 3 weeks covering Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia

Krabi/Phuket for 4 Days

Krabi is a place perfect for making the 4th day out of 3 weeks in Southeast Asia. Krabi is also close to Phuket, which means you can pretty much explore both areas during your trip. It sprawls on a resort town near Andaman Coast.

Imagine a place crowded not by people but by limestone karsts, islands, white sand, and mangrove forests, and it will make time fly.

Beach bumming, island hopping and snorkelling are some of the best things to do because Krabi offers countless islands. Rent a motorbike to move around the islands and do your own sightseeing.

You can instantly visit four islands named Tup Island, Chicken Island, Poda Island, and Railay Phra Nang Cave and Beach, on a single boat trip. There are also underrated destinations in Krabi: Emerald pool, Pa Phru Tha Pom Khlong Song Nam (Mangrove Reserve), and Khorana National Park. 

Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai for 4 Days

Chiang Mai is a city on the high side of northern Thailand. Being at the top of the mountains emerged the independent kingdom of Lanna until 1558. Here you can witness the Doi Suthep, a hill with an incredible view of the city. Surrounding the area is the 13th-century temples and the birthplace of the elephant shrine.

You can also visit Doi Inthanon National Park, Thailand’s highest mountain. The Mae Ping River is also where tourists can enjoy a boat trip that heads to traditional teak houses, rural greeneries, and a meadow of jasmine rice. You can also stop and swim in their own Grand Canyon.

Moving around : There are direct flights from Phuket/Krabi to Chiang Mai . The flight time is about 2 hours. You can take a bus as well, but that will nearly be around 24 hours.

Bangkok for 3 Days

Bangkok attracts millions of tourists each year and garners the reputation of being a city with a culture that meets modernity. Lively nightlife is what usually comes to our minds when Bangkok is in question.

Tourists also come and go to experience their large floating and night markets. They are also proud of the architecture of the Temple of Dawn and The Grand Palace. Plus, cruise your night on the Chao Phraya River – the city’s lifeline.

MOVING AROUND : The bus between Chiang Mai and Bangkok will take around 9-10 hours. Plan to travel overnight to save time. You can also take a direct flight instead, which is affordable and more convinient. Another option is by train, but it’s no cheaper than flying.

Siem Reap (Cambodia) for 3 Days

Three days is good enough to drench yourself with the wonders of Angkor Watt and bizarre places like the Bayon and its smiling faces. You can also visit the 10th-century Cambodian temple made for the God Shiva. It is also good to make a side trip to the temples overgrown with trees (Ta Prohm Temple).

If you want more adventure, consider renting a bike and making your way to the Tomb Raider temple. Some also suggest going around 4 pm to witness the sunset from Phnom Bakheng.

MOVING AROUND : You can take a 6 to 7-hour sleeper bus from Bangkok to Siem Reap for $40. A direct flight is only an hour trip and usually costs $100-$140.

Phnom Penh for 2 Days

Phnom Penh will take you to the Royal Palace, the landmark of the hustling capital city of Cambodia. The city is glorious for its harrowing tourist sites, such as the killing fields of Choeung Ek, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and Throne Hall. 

Phnom Penh is also famous for travellers with a touch of artisans. Many galleries include Kbach Arts, Long After Dark, House of Scott, Ambre, Artisans Angkor, and Ramayana Mural.

MOVING AROUND : The bus travel time between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap is a 5-6 hours. There are also direct flights which will only take an hour.

Sihanoukville and Koh Rong for 4 Days

After Phnom Penh, you can head over the coasts of Sihanoukville. They are known for tourists wanting to have the perfect ending to a trip. Here you can chill and rest on numerous beach resorts and island hopping. Sihanoukville is also known as the jumping point for the island of Koh Rong.

Koh Rong is an island with a dense jungle with all the definitions of perfect island life. The island itself has a tremendous amount of palm trees and a decent number of waterfalls. Long are the days that you get bored in Koh Rong.

Many outdoor activities are emerging today, including adventure parks, beach parties, snorkelling, diving, kayaking, and many more.

INFO: You can honestly skip out on Sihanoukville unless you like casinos. The beach here is not the best, although you have to get here to take a ferry to Koh Rong.

MOVING AROUND : Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville is only 4-5 hours on a bus . You will have to take a boat to get to Koh Rong. When you finish your trip, you will either have to make your way back to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap to take your flight to the next destination/back home.

ALSO CHECK: Our itinerary for 3 weeks in Thailand only

Itinerary #3: Thailand + Myanmar

There are thousands of reasons to explore Thailand, but adding Myanmar to your Southeast Asia destination can be as thrilling as ever. Myanmar is sheltering one of the most abundant archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. And when you’re coming from Thailand, you can take advantage of the border crossing with more relaxed visa restrictions.  

Backpackers always trust Thailand to be a place that doesn’t falter when it comes to admiring and shocking tourists worldwide. Undoubtedly, once you’ve cruised on the River of Kings, haggle with the locals in the famous floating market and immerse yourself in cultural and Buddhist experiences. 

Thailand Southern Island for 4 Days

You can choose between Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao. and Koh Samui. All of these southern islands will bring your sandy white beaches, spectacular diving and snorkelling spots, and of course, fantastic parties.

Bangkok for 3 Days, Applying for a Visa to Myanmar

They say that Bangkok is a city where you never get tired of visiting. There are so many activities to do, and the city never sleeps! You can always find something new to do. It was one of the world’s most visited cities in 2018. 

Bangkok dominates these recreational activities if you’re into shopping, street food tasting, embracing the culture, sightseeing, and nightlife. Bangkok’s highlights include its floating market, the Reclining Buddha, Grand Palace, Chatuchak Market, Baiyoke Tower, and Wat Arun. 

Before you start exploring this city, collect your documents and apply for a visa to Myanmar. Some nationalities may not need to do this, but it’s easy and pretty affordable if you do.

It takes a few days to process; hence, you should start your application before heading to Myanmar, especially if you are planning to cross the land border. For those flying in, you can apply for the visa online.

Chiang Mai for 3 Days

If you’ve been exposed to the cities of Thailand for quite a while, you may want to consider heading to Chiang Mai, located on the steep side of the country. It’s a place of countless mountains and hill tribes with endless sceneries fantastic for travellers who love outdoor trekking, sightseeing, and embracing Thailand’s urbanity. 

Through time, the evolution of Chiang Mai paved the way for such incredible architecture inspired by ancient temples and Buddhist culture. You can also visit Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Sing (Gold Temple), Doi Suthep, Pui National Park, Chiang Mai Zoo, Night Safari and Bazaar, and a lot more. 

MOVING AROUND : You can book a 9-10 hours bus for $25 , but it’s better to fly for $40 . You have to pay an extra fee for your check-in bag if you book a budget airline tho. The travel time is 1 hour and 15 minutes. You can also take the train which is slower than the bus, but more comfortable.

Cross the border to Myanmar and Head to Yangon for 2 Days

From Chiang Mai, you should make your way to the Mae Sot border. Get your Thailand exit stamp, walk to the Myawaddy border, show your visa, fly out of Myanmar ticket, and get your entry stamp. Walk a little further until you reach the town/market. You should be able to find a bus that will take you to Yangon.

Yangon or Rangoon was Myanmar’s former capital. Today the capital city is called Naypyitaw, which is North of Yangon.

There are many things to do in Yangon, but first, get yourself a local sim card if you don’t have data for roaming. This will help you get around Myanmar a little easier.

While in Yangon, visit the Shwe Dagon Pagoda and experience Yangon Circular Railway, a train system that goes around the city. After a long day, head down to the market and try out some unique Burmese dishes. 

MOVING AROUND : From Chiang Mai, head to either Mae Sai Border or Mae Sot (closer to Yangong) – both are 5 hours from Chiang Mai. You should be able to find a bus from city centre or ask your accommodation receptionist. These buses cannot be booked online and only goes a few times a day. From the border, of Myawaddy, there should be a bus or minivan to Yangon, or you can take the minivan to Mawlamyine, then get on another van/bus to Yangon. Most accommodations/transporation for Myanmar cannot be booked online. It’s an old school style of travel where you simply arrive and look for a place to stay.

Bagan for 2-3 Days

Bagan has this magnificent view that many travellers dream of exploring. Being one of the most preserved archaeological sites and a class of thousands of temples. Bagan is a protected site and requires entrance fees for non-citizens.

The tangerine sunset over Bagan has gone to bring more peace and love to each other. It’s maybe why crimes in Bagan are never unheard of and rare. Aside from marvellous temples and the remarkable sunset. You can also set off to Nan Paya, a shrine that was once used as a prison. 

MOVING AROUND : There are plenty of buses from Yangong to Bagan. One thing to remember though, you might be asked to pay for your entrance fee while in the bus as it enters the protected area of Bagan. Keep your ticket, as this will be asked a few times whenever you enter a pagoda or temple around Bagan.

Kalaw for 1 Night

Personally, I didn’t have time to explore Kalaw. For many, this is the gateway to a great hike to Inle Lake. The famous trek from Kalaw to Inle Lake lasts about 3-4 days. I recommend you spend one night here to find the best-guided hike for you and prepare for a long trek ahead.

Your tour guide will manage the rest of your luggage, but before that, pack a piece of luggage that will be enough for you during the hike since you won’t see the rest of your stuff until you reach Inle Lake.

MOVING AROUND : from Bagan to Kalaw, you can take a bus or minivan, the travel time is around 6 hours.

Hike from Kalaw to Inle Lake and Explore Inle Lake for 3-4 Days

The hike from Kalaw to Inle Lake can be reached within 3-4 days of transiting on foot. And it’s not that far, just kidding, it’s 61 km away! You may think that it’s not possible or only soldiers can make the trail, but trust me, it’s one of the unique culture enlightening multi-trek you’ve been longing for.

However, the good news is that the trek doesn’t have extreme altitude or extreme high-end trails to tackle. It’s a trek to the hilly countryside on a mud trail that takes you to bamboo forests, orange plantations, tea bushes, and hill tribes, where you can spend the night with fellow hikers. You’ll also get to enjoy and embrace the vibes of the village people and the simplicity of their lives and enjoy local dishes.

MOVING AROUND : Take a bus back to Yangon from Inle Lake if you need to catch an internatinal flight out of Myanmar. You can also take a bus back to the border if you want to cross back to Thailand by bus.

Itinerary #4: Philippines

3 weeks in Southeast Asia itinerary is not complete without visiting the magnificent islands that make up the Philippines. With 7,000+ islands and mountainous regions, you can enjoy high mountains and sunny beaches. >> Related post : 3 weeks in the Philippines itinerary

Manila for 1 night

For foreign travellers wishing to travel to the Philippines, you should make Manila a transit hub. Manila may strike you with disappointments; it’s crowded, hot, and doesn’t have that much to offer to the tourist. Although it’s a bizarre journey, airports in Manila can take you to almost all of the places in the Philippines. This is also where you can get local currency and purchase a local sim card with mobile data.

As awful as it sounds, the Philippines doesn’t have the best design for transportation. If you plan to get from A to B, you will most likely connect in Manila if you don’t plan properly. This is why you should carefully write your 3 weeks in the Southeast Asia itinerary when exploring the Philippines.

MUST-READ : The first thing you should do is to choose between exploring the country’s mountains where you can hike or head down to the south where you can soak up to its beaches and do some diving and boat tours. Below, you can see which one is more suitable for you.

Baguio, La Union, Sagada, Mount Pulag for 1 week

Baguio, La Union, Sagada, and Mount Pulag are the only place in the Philippines where you can experience cold temperatures throughout the day and are located in the northern part of the country. Baguio is an independent city prosperous with traditional arts.

You can spend one day touring around Mines View, BenCab, Botanical Garden, Burnham Park, Diplomat Hotel, and The Mansion. 

Mt. Pulag is the highest mountain in Luzon, and the summit can be reached in 4-7 hours. You’ll be mesmerized by the sea of clouds once on top. And if you are craving more tropical, going to La Union is the beachside of Luzon. If you’re not into hiking, you can skip Mt. Pulag, and if you’re not into surfing, you can cut off La Union.

Sagada, however, is a must destination to be when you’re already in the northern part of Luzon. If you’re the kind of traveller who loves traditional tattoos, lead yourself to Whang-Od, a 100-year-old headhunter, a famous traditional tattoo artist amongst local and international tourists.

MOVING AROUND : From Manila, you will be travelling by road most of the time to visit the northern part of the country. You will then make your way back to Manila to catch your flight to Indonesia which will cost around $70 for one-way.

The Visayas Trail (Cebu, Oslob Dumaguete, Siquijor, Panglao, Bohol) – 10 Days

The Visayas is a region that consists of seven large islands and hundreds of islets. This is a place where the gems of the Philippines are settled. From Manila, fly over to Cebu and be charmed by the Magellan’s Cross and Fort San Pedro. Once you’re in Cebu, direct flights to Oslob, Dumaguete, Siquijor, and Bohol.

Oslob is a perfect getaway for tourists wanting to swim with underwater creatures. From here, go to Bohol and admire the famous Chocolate Hills, Panglao Island, Hinagdanan Cave, and Alona Beach. And also, from Bohol, you can take a ferry heading to Siquijor. It’s one of the best islands of Visayas with barely touched natural attractions, waterfalls, beaches, caves, cave pools, butterfly sanctuaries, and beautiful white-sand beaches.

You can also fly to the province of Dumaguete and rush over and check out one of the active volcanoes of the Philippines, Mt. Kanlaon. Dumaguete is also famous for Siliman University- the oldest university in Asia, founded by the Presbyterian Board of Foreign Mission of the USA.

MOVING AROUND : You can take a direct flight from Manila to either Cebu, Panglao, or Dumaguete and start your trip theere. You can also finish your trip in either of those cities and take a flight back to Manila to catch your plan to Indonesia.

Palawan or Siargao for 4 Days

You can also fly to Palawan or Siargao from Cebu and experience a world-class island beach on Kayangan Lake, Coron, El Nido, Port Barton, and tons more. Palawan is an island in the Philippines famous for its crystal-clear water and the underground river in Puerto Princesa. In 2012, the global community cast a vote and made Palawan the first place in the Philippines that garners the title of the New 7 Wonders of the World.

If you’re into surfing, Siargao can offer you Cloud 9 and Quicksilver, a tropical island paradise home for surfers. Meanwhile, you can always chill on this bizarre Naked Island, which got its name because there’s no shade once you get there, except only the exceptional white sand and crystalline water. You can’t escape from the bliss and extreme euphoria once you experience the numerous attractions in Siargao.

MOVING AROUND : There are direct flights from Manila to Palawan (either to Coron, El Nido, or Puerto Princesa) and Siargao. The travel time is between $100-$200 one-way.

Itinerary #5: Indonesia

Three weeks is never enough to take a trip and delve into all the 17,000 islands of Indonesia. However, I’ve listed places that demand to be travelled when planning to fulfil your vacation in this beautiful country. One should visit Indonesia, which includes its vast culture, exotic animals, and a bulk load of exciting experiences to offer. >> We have a specific 3 weeks in Indonesia itinerary

MUST-READ : Just like the Philippines, when visiting Indonesia, it’s best to focus your time to one region and make the most out of it. You should be able to find a flight out of Manila to Jakarta or Bali (Depansar).

Focus on Java Only for 10 days

Java is the heart of Indonesia, and three weeks itinerary will feel like just a couple of days. You’ll enjoy everything from the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the city of Surabaya, Borobudur Temple, Anyer, Candi Prambanan, Batu Karas, Bogor, and the seaside of Pangadaran.

And if you want more activities besides seeing antiquity, hike on Mount Bromo, Mount t Ljen, and visit waterfalls such as Baturaden.

Java is known to combine Hindu, Buddhist, Islamic, and the Dutch East Indies. So, expect to see different characteristics of temples and diverse cultures. It’s also one of the most populated islands in Indonesia, but worry not, and there are plenty of places to crash. 

From Surabaya, you can make your way to Mount Bromo, an active volcano. From here, you should be able to hike Mount Ijen as well.

MOVING AROUND : If you end up in East Java near Mount Ijen, you can take a bus to Bali Island, but also requires a boat transfer. If not, it’s best to take a domestic flight to Bali (Ngurah Rai International Airport DPS), the ticket will costs $40 or more depending on your luggage.

Bali Island and Lombok Island for 10 days

Meanwhile, Bali is an Island with underlying volcanic mountains, beaches, and coral reefs. They also have the best cliffside infinity pools overlooking the Indian Ocean.

And also, these are the places you may want to visit on your 3-week itinerary; Gili Islands, Mrs Sippy, or the largest saltwater pool in Bali, Tanah Lot Temple, Kelly’s Warung, Tegenungan Waterfall, Bali Swing, Bingin Beach, and Nusa Penida.

Are 3 weeks Southeast Asia itinerary even justified without a visit to the famous island of Bali? And one of the most efficient ways to get to each corner of Bali is by renting a scooter. It is common transportation used by tourists to go wherever their heart desires.

Apart from heading to top destinations, you may also want to witness their culture naming a few; the Kecak Fire Dance, Canggu Foodie, Ubud Art Culture, and Puru Ulun Danu Bratan. You should check out our 3 weeks in Bali itinerary .

MOVING AROUND : There are a lot of boat tours and day trips from Bali to Lombok Island, but you can also get on a boat and stay in Lombok for a few days.

Itinerary #6: Malaysia + Singapore

These two countries are perfect for 3 weeks in Southeast Asia. They share a land border, and the capital cities fly to Europe and North America directly. This means that you can fly into and leave the region back home much easier with fewer connecting flights to take.

Firstly, it’s always better to head first to Singapore and stay here for a while. You can visit Chinatown, Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Islands, Sentosa Island, and the Orchards. Once you’ve got enough of Singapore, take your journey to northern Malaysia (Langkawi) and eventually end up in Thailand if you still have more time.

It may take 5-7 hours of transit, and a train company runs between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. However, there is no point-to-point from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur. So, expect train and bus hopping when crossing the borders. 

>> CHECK OUT : 3 weeks in Malaysia and/or 2 weeks in Malaysia and Singapore

Singapore for 5 days

Singapore is a small country, yet it doesn’t stop visitors from anywhere in the world from visiting this place at least once in their lifetime. Most of Singapore’s top attractions rely on modern and futuristic architecture. The country also has one of the best public transportation in the region, making it so much easier to explore, and the locals communicate in English very well.

Spending 5 days in Singapore out of 3 weeks in Southeast Asia is much more than you need. But it will allow you to travel slowly and meet locals. If you would rather cut it down to 3 or 4 days, that works too, and you can add that extra day somewhere in Malaysia.

MOVING AROUND : You can get to Melaka (Malaysia) by crossing the land border between the two countries. The journey time is abour 3-4 hours on a bus .

Melaka (Malaysia) for 2 days

Melaka is a coastal town north of Singapore. It’s a city with well-preserved colonial architecture and spectacular places of worship for Christians, Catholics, and Muslims. The best way to travel around Melaka is by renting a push bike.

If you want to skip this city, you can simply book your bus directly to Kuala Lumpur or take a direct flight. You can instead switch Melaka with a visit to Cameron Highlands if you like coffee, hiking, and tea.

Kuala Lumpur for 3 days

Kuala Lumpur (KL) is the capital of Malaysia. Famous for its skyscraper twin towers and fantastic shopping malls. It’s also home to the colourful stairs that lead to Batu Caves. KL has a great mini forest in the heart of the city, offering a nice spot if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

MOVING AROUND: From Melaka, you can get to KL via bus that travels for 2-3 hours. You can also rent a private car with a driver, the journey is only 2 hours. Geting around Kuala Lumpur, you can either take the reliable train and buses. You can also use ride-hailing apps such as Grab, inDriver, and MyCar.

Penang for 3 days

Penang is the food capital of Malaysia. Its diverse culture comes with incredibly diverse cuisine. You’ll see and taste dishes from China, Malay, South Asia, and other parts of East and Southeast Asia. Apart from mouthwatering dishes, Penang is also famous for its street art, which is in 3D.

The local government of Penang wanted to showcase its diversity through its food, architecture, and people and through art. These paintings replicate the daily life in Penang and share it with its visitors.

MOVING AROUND: You can hop on a direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Penang for $15-$25. You can also opt for taking the bus which is a 4-5 hours drive. But if you choose to visit Cameron Highlands, it’s 5-6 hours on a bus.

Langkawi for 3 days

You have seen the tall buildings and tasted the best dishes in Malaysia. It’s not time to see its beautiful beaches with affordable chocolate, alcohol, and accommodation.

Langkawi is a duty-free island in the north of Malaysia near the border with Thailand. Duty-free means all the international products sold here are much more affordable. Compared to other parts of the country, alcohol is much cheaper here as well, and accommodation costs are more affordable.

MOVING AROUND: Getting to Langkaw from Penang is quite fun. You will have to take the ferry for 3 hours. You can also take a direct flight between these two islands. Once you arei n Langkawi, it’s best to rent a motorbike to chauffer yourself around.

Perhentian Islands for 4 days

Perhentian Islands is the main pride of Malaysia’s mainland regarding pristine beaches. This paradise has been famous amongst local and foreign visitors for decades now but has managed to stay “rural” in many ways.

This destination is perfect if you’re looking for a low-key spot to enjoy the beach and water activities.

MOVING AROUND: Reaching Perhantian Islands is a bit more complicated. The easiest way to take a flight Kota Bharu or Terengganu from Langkawi (which connects either in Penang or KL). Then, you must take a minibus or minivan from the airpor to Besut. And finally, take a ferry to Perhentian Islands.

Itinerary #7: Vietnam + Laos

Vietnam with Laos itinerary is an excellent Indochina trip and 3 weeks in Southeast Asia destinations since they share a land border. Vietnam to Laos and vice versa can be travelled via land. Travelling through these two countries means you will do lots of fantastic hikes, visit pagodas, and learn about the culture and differences between the two places.

Vietnam is much more touristy than Laos. Many people go to Laos to enjoy its serenity. It’s the ideal destination if you want to be around nature but will find places to meet other travellers and share stories with them.

If you’re checking the Indochina map right now, Vietnam and Laos are near each other, but it can get exhausting once you make the trip. It’s either you fly or make it by bus. The drive takes around 27 hours, so prepare yourself physically and keep your patience intact. You can also cross the border with your motorbike (read below).

At the present moment, there are six border points, and each route has its unique policies. The chances of getting bored on the bus journey are high. It is advisable to bring something you’re comfortable doing just to pass the time. Roads can be bumpy, and most buses don’t have cushions, so bring your commuting gear with you.

MOVING AROUND: If you are travelling with a motorbike (let’s say you bought one in Vietnam for this trip), you can bring that to Laos. The borders you can check are Cha Lo Bordergate (near Dong Ha), La Lay Check Point (near Hue), and Bo Y Border Gate (near Pleiku). Not all borders will allow you to bring your motorbike, but the hotel you’re staying or people who work at hostels will know the most updated information). The border in the northern part of Vietnam can be more confusing to cross and the journey is often longer due to crossing through the moutains.

Choose between North + Central Vietnam or Central + South Vietnam for 10 days

Take a look at our Itinerary #1. It has an intensive description of Vietnam that will help you decide which part you want to visit.

To give you a quick idea, the north of Vietnam is more traditional than the south. If you want to see Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sa Pa, and Ninh Binh, you definitely want to go to that region.

On the other hand, the south of Vietnam is known as the business region of the country, and the culture is a little more liberated compared to the north. The top destinations in the south are Ho Chi Minh City, Dalat, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc Island.

The Vietnam central region is an excellent choice for its hiking trails. Go to Phong Nha or explore the most extensive cave system in the world – Son Doong. The cities of Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang, and the famous Hai Van Pass are the must-see spots in this region.

MOVING AROUND: You will likely land in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. If you finish your Vietnam trip around the central region, you can either cross the border to Laos by bus or motorbike. You can check if there are flights from Da Nang to Vientiane or Pakse .

Vientiane (Laos) for 2 days

Vientiane is the capital of Laos, however, compared to its neighbouring capital city, it offers a more rural and scenic view. As you wander through Vientiane, you’ll notice how many buildings are designed with traditional architecture.

Of course, you will see modern buildings, but this Laotian city has no towering skyscrapers. Most buildings are low-rise which is usually developed as luxury hotels or shopping malls.

The city crawls with Buddhist temples, French colonial architecture, matched with slow-paced life. Laos generally doesn’t get as many tourists as the other Southeast Asian neighbours. Due to the lack of tourism presence, it’s the perfect place to go if you want to be close to nature, learn more about this quiet city, and find tranquillity.

Vang Vieng for 3 days

Love thrilling adventure? Vang Vieng is the place for you. Book a trip with tubing, zip lining, rock climbing, rapelling, and kayaking. This little town also has many caves, so you must have a caring experience where you can explore different caves with a knowledgeable tour guide.

Spend your last day relaxing. Vang Vieng is a laid-back destination where most people simply enjoy the scenery, good food, and quiet atmosphere that is now a rarity in Southeast Asia tourist trails.

MOVING AROUND: There are minivans you can take from Vientiane to Vang Vieng for only $11-$15. The travel time is around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Luang Prabang for 3 days

Luang Prabang is a city in the north of Laos which is also the first major city you’ll see if you are crossing the land borders from Vietnam and Thailand. Luang Prabang is known for its lively night markets, dazzled by unique and affordable handicraft products and traditional Laotian snacks and dishes.

If you’re a morning person, you’ll notice a daily routine of monks walking the streets to receive offerings and alms from the locals (although you are more than welcome to give as well). This is called alms giving ceremony, which the monks will take to the temple, offer a prayer to their ancestors, and give thanks for the blessings they received.

MOVING AROUND: There’s a train that you can take from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang, the travel time will take abuot 2 hours nd costs $15 to $20 per preson. There’s also an option for a minivan, but it will over 6 hours.

Itinerary #8: Thailand + Laos – Hiking itinerary

Thailand and Laos are actually quite popular destinations to combine for 3 weeks in Southeast Asia. This trail is suitable if you love hiking because you can travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and then to Chiang Rai. From there, you can cross the border to Laos by land and boat.

Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are great hiking regions in Thailand, while Laos generally has many national biodiverse conservation areas and parks open for hiking.

Bangkok for 4 days

Four days in Bangkok is ideal. You can visit the must-see temples and pagodas, explore the floating market, and go on a food adventure. If you love parties, Khao San Road is just around the corner. You can also use it to plan how you want to get to your next destination.

Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai for 5 days

Chaing Mai and Chiang Rai are both great locations for hiking. But both also offer incredible cultural and historical sites for you to explore. Spending five days between these two amazing cities will be filled with exploring nature and learning more about Thai culture.

The most popular hiking trails in Chiang Mai are Doi Inthanon, Mae Sa Valley, Mae Sa Valley, Mon Cham, and Doi Suthep (an easy hike). For Chiang Rai, you can check out Phu Chi Fa, Mae Salong, Doi Chang, Khun Korn Waterfall, Chiang Dao.

Most of these hikes can be done in just a day, so you can choose between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai as your base in northern Thailand. The tour agencies will also offer pick up and drop off from your accommodation.

MOVING AROUND: You can reach Chiang Mai in three different ways; by bus, train, and by air. The bus will take a bit over 9 hours, and the train journey is about 10 hours. Flying will be fastest and most convinient.

Cross the border to Laos (Huay Xai)

Now that you are ready to say goodbye to Thailand, it’s time to cross the border between Thailand and Laos. This is a famous border crossing, so you should not have difficulty finding a bus that will take you to the border.

Although there is a bridge between the two countries, you cannot cross it on foot. You can take a slow boat or book a car or bus to take you through the border gate. Taking the slow boat means you need a service from Huay Xai (Laos) to take you to Luang Prabang or other destinations you have in mind.

The visa for Laos is easy. Everyone can pretty much get a visa on arrival, which means all you need to do is show your passport, pay, and get on your trip. If you have a Thai driver, they get a free visa to cross back and forth without trouble.

TIP: Change all your Thai Baht on this border since it will be useless (or hard to convert) once you cross the border to Laos.

Luang Prabang for 4 days

Luang Prabang is also known for its stunning scenery. There are dense forests surrounding the city highlighted with magnificent waterfalls. This is a fantastic destination for hiking, wild swimming, or anything related to outdoor activities and nature.

When it comes to hiking, the popular areas are Kuang Si Waterfall, Pak Ou Caves, Mount Phousi, Tad Sae Waterfall, Nam Khan River.

Apart from that, you’ll also enjoy some French colonial architecture influenced by French colonialism. The Royal Palace is a great example which is now open to the public as a museum where you can learn about the story of Laos while under the colony.

If you have 3 weeks in Southeast Asia and enjoy exciting activities, then Vang Vieng is the place for you. Vang Vieng is a small town surrounded by towering karst mountains and lush jungles.

This is a destination known as “adventure tourism” because you can do plenty of exciting excursions such as tubing, rock climbing, kayaking, caving, and zip-lining through the forest.

For hikers out there, make sure to explore Pha Ngeun Viewpoint, Blue Lagoon 3, Tham Jang Cave, Pha Poak Viewpoint, and Pha Thao Viewpoint.

Due to its affordability, it’s also right along the backpacker’s trail. when you get here, you’d be surprised at how many people simply come here to lie on the hammock, read a book, sleep while surrounded by chirping birds and trees.

MOVING AROUND: The best way to get to Vang Vieng from Luang Prabang is by train. It’s only a 1 hour and 30 min to 2-hour trip. It’s the same cost as taking a 6-hour minivan which is around $20 per person.

Vientiane for 2 days

Spend your 2 days discovering hiking spots in Vientiante, which includes Chao Anouvong Park, Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area, Nam Ngum Reservoir, Buddha Park, and Pha That Luang.

If you’re not tired of visiting temples and pagodas yet, Vientiane has many of them, making Pha That Luang the most popular and must-be visited. For those looking to buy souvenirs, head to the night markets to find vibrant options such as handicrafts and textiles at affordable prices.

You should also not miss your last chance to enjoy traditional Laotian dishes with a hint of French influence. There are cooking classes that you can sign up for, or simply join a food tour to learn more about Laotian cuisine.

Finish your trip to Vientiane, where an international airport is located. Although you can also cross the border to Thailand and head to Bangkok for more international flight options.

MOVING AROUND: You can take the train from Vang Vieng to Vientiane, the journey time is 2 hours for $15 or take a minivan for 2 hours and 30 minutes for $10.

Itinerary #9: Timor Leste + Brunei + Borneo

If you really want to max out your 3 weeks in Southeast Asia itinerary, Timor Leste, Brunei, and Borneo trio are the one for you. Timor Leste and Brunei are some of the most overlooked destinations in Southeast Asia. One of the reasons is that Timor Leste just gained independence in 2002.

Its geographical location is spread over four different seas. However, it begins to show tourism potential. And the remnants of the resistance to the Indonesian occupation have also attracted many travellers.

Borneo is a big island in the heart of Southeast Asia. It’s divided into three countries; Malaysia (northern region, Brunei, and Indonesia (southern region. It contains the oldest rainforest in the world, with 140 million years of existence.

It’s a home for much-endangered wildlife, which appeals to many conservationists. It also opens the doors of interest in travelling to Brunei, with some of the best Islamic infrastructure and architecture. 

Make sure to go to Sandakan, where you can see the unique proboscis monkeys. Northern Borneo is also where the national flower of Malaysia, called “rafflesia”, can be found. Go to Turtle Island in September/October, which is the hatching/freeing season of turtles.

MOVING AROUND: When it comes to Borneo, taking the bus is the main mode of transportation. There are also options to take a ferry such as between Labuan and Brunei. There are also flights you can take. Most are not direct flights and requires long connection though.

TOP THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN SOUTHEAST ASIA (by country)

This list of travel itineraries for 3 weeks in Southeast Asia is long enough that adding a mountainous list of must-do activities will be just too much. So below, I linked the separate itineraries per country to help you plan your trip better depending on the destination/s you have chosen.

• Brunei/Borneo

SUMMARY OF 3 WEEKS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

Southeast Asia consists of 11 countries, three weeks will never be enough to visit all its magnificent corners. However, it doesn’t mean you should not go and travel here just because you have a limited time. You can start by choosing two countries and splitting your time. Perhaps you’ll like it, and next time you come back, you will visit two different countries.

I hope you found this 3 weeks in Southeast Asia itinerary helpful. I know it’s a long article, but I really just want to give a few samples of how you can create your own itinerary and max out your visit.

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

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South Asia Travel

Traveling in India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka

South Asia travel is exciting, extreme, mostly cheap, and unforgettable. A visit to the most populous — and frenetic — region on earth provides plenty of opportunity for adventure and lasting memories.

Hitting up the three most popular destinations ( India, Nepal , and Sri Lanka) for a South Asia “Grand Slam” on the same trip is entirely possible. Although any of the three can easily hold their own alone as a top destination, combining them makes for an enjoyable, diverse sample of South Asia.

Nepal offers up Kathmandu, Mount Everest , the birthplace of Buddha, and other travel treats. Sri Lanka provides an island experience, abundant flora and fauna, surfing, whale spotting, and as many beach cocktails in king coconuts as you can handle — useful for warming up after the Himalayas.

India is... well ...India!

From the highest mountains in the world to one of the most biodiverse islands in the world, traveling to South Asia is well worth the madness of being stuck on a plane so long. Despite some challenges, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka have good tourist infrastructures. They’re also excellent choices for budget travelers on extended trips abroad. You certainly get a lot of cultural “bang” for the buck in each.

First: Make sure you’re in the right place. South Asia and Southeast Asia are two completely different subregions in Asia!

Choosing When to Travel to South Asia

To properly enjoy any time in the Himalayas — one of South Asia’s most inviting features — you’ll need to plan around the extreme weather in Nepal . Snow atop mountains is beautiful when viewed from afar, not when stuck in a remote outpost waiting weeks for roads or runways to clear. India and Sri Lanka can be added before or after a trip to the Himalayas.

For taking advantage of fair weather in the mountains, you’ll have to decide between Nepal’s two busy seasons: spring or fall.

The Best Time to Visit Nepal

Nepal’s rainy season begins in June and runs until sometime in September. Although the air may be cleaner, mud and leeches really cut into the fun. The autumn months, especially October, are the most popular in Nepal. During this busy time, you may have trouble finding accommodation in lodges on popular trails, especially if you decide to go trekking independently without a tou r.

Spring is a popular time to visit Nepal for viewing wildflowers, but as temperatures warm, mountain views are reduced by humidity. May is a good — and busy — month for trekking to Everest Base Camp to see climbers preparing for their life-and-death challenge.

The Best Time to Visit India

The Indian subcontinent is so large that you’ll find good weather somewhere no matter the time of year. Traveling to India will probably be the highlight of your travels in South Asia.

That being said, the monsoon season begins in June and runs until October. The rain can be heavy and disruptive, especially in some destinations such as Goa. The weeks leading up to monsoon season are unbearably hot, so taking a chance with shoulder seasons are best.

Destinations in the north may become inaccessible in November as snow begins to close mountain passes. If rain or cold pose too much of a challenge, you could always head to Rajasthan — India’s desert state — to see ancient forts and enjoy a camel safari in Jaisalmer .

Before solidifying dates for travel to South Asia, check to see how they mesh with the busiest holidays in India . You wouldn’t want to just narrowly miss one of these spectacular events. Dealing with the aftermath without getting to participate in the festival is no fun at all!

The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

Surprising for its size, Sri Lanka experiences two distinct monsoon seasons that divide the island. The best time for visiting the beautiful beaches in the south is from November to April. Whale spotting season begins in November. During dry season in the south, rain soaks the northern half of the island.

Regardless of the time of year, your only worry in Sri Lanka is rain. The island will be more than warm enough , particularly if you’ve just come from the Himalayas!

Getting to South Asia

Unsurprisingly, India is well connected with flights from North America, Europe, and other parts of Asia. There aren’t any direct flights between the United States and Sri Lanka, so beginning in India is a good plan unless you’ll be coming from a different part of Asia.

Great deals can be found for flights between India and Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur . One popular strategy is to grab a cheap flight to Southeast Asia (the cheapest flights often arrive in Bangkok), spend a few days acclimatizing in an “easy” environment and beating jetlag , enjoy some delicious Thai noodles, then fly onward to India to begin your South Asia travel adventure.

If you choose to begin in Nepal, know what to expect when landing in Kathmandu .

Moving Between India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka

Without a doubt, the most time efficient and least painful way to move between the three countries is by taking budget flights. Unfortunately, flying is also the surest way to miss out on some wild experiences that happen on the ground when least expected.

Terrain features, road conditions, and severe overcrowding make moving long distances by bus a little extra painful than usual. Trains are a better option than night buses, but they aren’t always available. Moving around India and Sri Lanka by train can be an enjoyable travel experience.

Although you can cross into Nepal from the northern border of India, you’ll have to deal with winding roads, high-elevation passes, and the whim of military officials who may want additional incentive (money) to allow you to pass. Simply put, flying is well worth the money spent unless your primary objective is the additional adventure.

Ferry service from India to Sri Lanka was terminated. You’ll find lots of cheap flights to Colombo from different points in India.

What About Other Places in South Asia?

This itinerary only covers India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka because visiting the three is popular and fairly straightforward. With additional trip time and planning, a foray into Bangladesh could be added. South Asia is actually made up of eight nations.

The Maldives , popular with honeymooners , are a little inconvenient on a trip of this nature and are probably best left as a vacation-style destination all their own. Visiting Bhutan requires commitment — and upfront payment — for a government-regulated tour.

Presently, most world governments have a warning against all nonessential travel to Pakistan. If you’d still like to visit, speak with the High Commission for Pakistan in New Delhi about obtaining a visa. Travelers from countries on the list of “Tourist Friendly Countries” may obtain a 30-day visa on arrival but must travel with an authorized tour agency.

Afghanistan is blessed with the mountainous beauty to become a top travel destination one day, but for now remains mostly inaccessible.

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Winter in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

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Traveling During the Monsoon Season in Asia

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I Went Backpacking From India To South East Asia By Road With My Friend

I was born in a land far far away, in a tiny unknown village in northern Rajasthan. I am Raghuveersingh Rathore, but you can call me Raghu Raahi. Because that’s what I do. I travel. And my favourite travel partner is Gargi Shingte. We met when we both were stuck studying chartered accountancy in Pune, dreaming about travelling the world. And now, full-time travel is our reality! We went backpacking from India to South East Asia by road including countries like Myanmar, Thailand and Cambodia for 4 months at around ₹10,000 per person per month. 

Hello! We’re Raghu & Gargi

I’m Raghu, a freelance videographer and a movie buff. I love singing, walking, talking and a lot of beer. I believe in living simply, minimally and happily. Making short videos to capture real experiences and show how travelling can change your life is something I enjoy.  Along the way, I want to inspire people to get out of the false restrictions of a cubicle and really live their one and only life.

Also Read:  I Go On Backpacking Trips With My 6-Year-Old Son, And Started Heart & Soil

Gargi is a self-taught artist. She is always on the go, working at backpacking hostels, painting wall murals, taking up freelance graphic design projects and creating art inspired by nature and travel. Gargi loves cats, reading, yoga, birds and being in nature. She is currently working on making and selling handmade products inspired by her travels.

Inspiration For Travelling

I can never think of myself as someone who sits in an office in front of a laptop sipping his coffee and working day in and day out. I would rather sit somewhere in nature working on my laptop, sipping my coffee. And I always wanted to be a nomad but in reality, I was working in an office 8 hours a day in Pune.

But everything changed when I did a trek in the Himalayas : the Sar pass trek. Those 5 days of pure joy, of living in the mountains with nature, away from all the man-made life that we call civilisation gave me the required push. After that raw beauty, I just couldn’t get myself to get back to office life. I put in my papers the very next day and took some time off to figure out what I really wanted in life. I think that’s when I toyed with the idea of long-term travel.

Planning For Trip To Thailand

So I was volunteering in a backpacking hostel called Himalayan Bunker in Ladakh, where Gargi was the manager. She had planned to backpack solo for 6 months in South East Asia. But the whole plan sounded so exciting that I had to jump on board. We were going to start from Mumbai, head to North East India and move slowly thereon through Myanmar, across Thailand, into Cambodia and climbing up within Vietnam and Laos, by LAND. We started our journey on 28th October 2019 and we will be back in India 23rd February 2020.

Gargi wanted to make sure we make full use of our route, so we spent a week in Meghalaya, hiking and biking on the long winding roads in the beautiful October skies. Our favourite was the Mawrynkhang Bamboo trek and the Nongriat Root Bridge trek.

Then we slowly moved into Manipur to cross over to Myanmar. I’ve also made a video on how easy it is to cross the border and all the things you will need to do!

The first thing in planning for the trip was deciding on a route based on the geography of land borders. This was Gargi’s favourite part. Getting lost on Google maps. She handled most of the planning and preparation from which check posts to cross from, places to visit, hostels to stay, and things to do.

Arranging For Visa & Other Requirements

Then came the fear of visa requirements and applications. It’s really not such a big deal after the first couple of stamps. But everyone makes you feel like its a difficult and lengthy process. Next was estimating the rough costs in each country. We didn’t really want to get into the details much. We just did some research on currency rates, read a LOT of blogs and looked up some accommodation rates online.

Also Read:  5 Offbeat Things To Do In Meghalaya | I Love My India Episode 2

The final step was packing. Travelling for so many months means that your bag can only have the absolute necessities, no maybes and just in cases. We want to promote sustainable living and so we made sure that we use our own water bottles and avoid single-use plastic as much as we can. We carry a spoon, fork and knife to discourage plastic cutlery. I am just using 3 tees, 2 pants, 1 shirt and 1 sweater! And you know what the best part is? It’s still more than enough. I don’t need anything more. Oh, and I was carrying a pair of shoes. Which I lost, so now I waltz around in chappals!

Also Read:  My 10-Days Trip to Malaysia & Thailand With My Friend At ₹50,000 Per Person Including Flight Tickets

Budget For Thailand Trip

We planned on keeping a budget of ₹10,000 per month per person. This includes food, accommodation and travels. We were going to try as far as possible to make connections and work in exchange for food and stay. On an average 200 for stay 100 for food. When it comes to travel we commuted by public transport, busses and hitchhiking. Obviously sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn’t. Even then, we spent ₹14,000 for 1 month in Myanmar and ₹15,000 for 2 months in Thailand. Howwzzaatt!

Thailand Trip Experiences

We did most of the touristy things in the first 2 weeks of travel. Everything from famous monuments in Myanmar to the best spots for photography. But soon, it felt fake and uninteresting. So we found ourselves hiking 40 km from Kalaw to Inle Lake instead! While we walked over hills we were able to communicate with people without sharing any common language. And that was the best part.

Travelling is about YOUR journey and it doesn’t matter what the top 10 things to do are. If you run behind them you will never truly be able to travel. So know what YOU really want and feel like doing.

Gargi always loved to know some history, read some books and browse blogs about them as we travelled. So she always knew which places are super touristy, which island is famous for what. I on the other hand like to be completely unaware. My mantra is: “ I go where the road takes me.” So we sort of balanced each other out, going to specific places but not doing specific things. Experiencing the things that we need to and at the same time going with the flow. Did you know There Is A Pink Water Lilies Lake In Thailand That’s Absolutely Stunning

For sure we’ve partied at Khao San Road in Bangkok, but we’ve also strolled aimlessly and stumbled upon the rather beautiful trail that leads to Laem Ka beach in southern Phuket.

We’ve definitely taken a pass and seen the famed Ananda temple in the ruins of Bagan but we’ve also meditated in an unknown pagoda while it poured outside and spoken to the daughter of the keeper of the keys to a pagoda as she showed us her home and family.

Of course we’ve had Thai curry and rice, but we’ve also lived on a Thai farm, picked vegetables and cooked Indian food together with a Thai family and their friends in rural Nakhon Ratchasima. We hit Pub Street in Siem Reap but also gave plantation farm tours in a pepper farm in Kampot!

Favourite Experiences

I travel to meet interesting people, have different experiences and discover new places. There are so many places from Bagan to Phuket and so many experiences from watching sunrise at pagodas to hitchhiking in Krabi that it is impossible to choose a favourite. Here are 6 Reasons Why Phuket Must Be On Your Bucket List

But if I have to name one place and one experience it would be Koh Lanta Island. That’s where we celebrated our new year and it was so different from all my previous New Year’s. We made a bonfire on a secluded beach with friends and witnessed the luminescent phytoplankton in the sea. We spoke about ourselves, about life and spirituality. And we welcomed the coming year with an open heart. It was a beautiful night and one of the most special ones.

View this post on Instagram Brazil. Thailand. Finland. India. Travel brought us all together. And now my memories in Thailand would be colourless without these beautiful souls. I found such simple and heartfelt connections with each of these women. Each fighting their own demons. Each taking one step at a time. Each strong and beautiful, inside out. And each uplifting each other and me. I found love, care, understanding and above all, freedom thanks to you! To all the first-time things I've done because of you! ❤️ Thank you! @tatiadiass @pp_aeee @claudiateikko #thegargilife #travellerstories #seasia #SEASIA #seasiatravel #seasiabackpacking #thailand #thailandtravel #phuket #phuketthailand #backpackinginthailand #girlsthattravel #travelgirls #girlpower A post shared by Gargi Shingté (@thegargilife) on Dec 14, 2019 at 6:56am PST

Special Memories

The changing landscapes- When you travel by land you see all the slow changes in the dialects, language, food, weather, vegetation and clothing. It’s beautiful to see that as part of the journey, which you would totally miss out on if you fly in. Obviously, not to mention the high carbon footprint.

Living vs visiting- A 5 day trip to Thailand is way different from spending 2 months in the country. And I think that’s how travel should be. If the point is to explore and experience a new culture you need to spend enough time there. To delve into the exquisite but also the good, bad and ugly.

View this post on Instagram These are some of the photos and videos of food that I've tasted or sometimes only window shopped (too weird to try ?) Some that I can explain are: 2. Assorted non veg to be fried on skewers and eaten with chilli sauce. I tried prawn and @raghuraahi tried some chicken and fish. It was okay.. I think it just looks more interesting. 3. Corn 4. Persimmons 5. Some birds eggs, Memendi fruit (red) and tiny guavas. 6. Rice stuffed in a Bamboo stick and smoked over fire. 7. Some roadside snacks that I have no idea about. 8. Dosa variation with egg and some veggies. 9. Assorted sweets during festive season. A post shared by Gargi Shingté (@thegargilife) on Nov 16, 2019 at 11:52pm PST

Exploring a place- When you don’t have an agenda for the day. When you have no time limits or boxes to check off, you just purely wander. And only then will you really smile in wonder. Backpacking has taught us that.

Tips For People Wanting To Travel On A Budget

So when you’re travelling your expenses can grossly be divided into 3 categories: accommodation, food and transportation.

Our first and most important cheap travel hack has been bartering skills in exchange for stay and meals. I make videos and Gargi makes wall murals and that turned out to be the best combination for hostels!

We got in touch with a few hostels to ask if they would be up for it. Incidentally, it wasn’t all that difficult!

In Myanmar, we made videos and wall murals for a hostel chain and in turn, we got a free stay at Bagan, Inle Lake and Yangon! I made a video at Inle Lake for the hostel about all the things you can do there, which they will be using on their website. Gargi made 2 wall murals at Bagan and Inle Lake and had the time of her life! Plan a trip to Myanmar As It Grants Visa On Arrival For Indians

The next important, adventurous, easy and super-duper fun travel hack we’d like to give you will be hitchhiking! In Myanmar we always booked buses but inspired by a solo travelling girl from Brazil who hitchhiked all the time, we gave it our first shot in Krabi province of Thailand. I can’t tell you how very exciting, exhilarating and humbling that experience is! Everyone should try it! Well maybe not in our country, but who knows! I made a video on how to hitch rides and our experience which my friends loved! Maybe you’d like it too?

Other than this, what we did to reduce costs was to eat local eat cheap, cook our own food wherever we could! If you miss your home food, this helps a lot. Make sure you wash your clothes, take overnight buses to save 2 days of hotel rooms and most of all, walk walk walk.

Tips For People Wanting To Travel Pune To Thailand By Road

Get your Myanmar e-visa easily from the official government website. It costs around Rs. 3600 and will be processed within 3 days via email. For Thailand Visa you will have to apply at the embassy in person since the Visa on arrival is valid only for arrival by air. Therefore, you will have to get this beforehand. Once you have the Visas for both the countries you can get to Moreh-Tamu Border in Manipur. Cross the Indo-Myanmar friendship bridge and take a bus from Tamu border town to wherever you are planning to get to in Myanmar. 

For crossing over from Myanmar to Thailand , take a bus from Yangon to the border town of Myawaddy. Get done with the immigration formalities and then cross the bridge to enter into Mae sot, the border town in Thailand. From here, you just have to take a bus to the destination of your choice. Another very important piece of information is to carry $15 (₹1074  approx) with you, as they also charge processing fees. They only accept dollars or Thai Baht at the immigration check post.

Learnings From Our Trip

Aaah. There is so much I have learned and still so much to learn. But one thing that I have learned is that you can be so many things when you travel. While travelling you can totally be a different person. You can break the barriers of behaving in a certain way because that’s how everyone knows me back home.

But when you travel you can become anything. It’s magical. I love it. And I think everyone should travel to have their own experiences and learn from them.

Because while travelling, with different people, different places and different experiences,  you are also meeting and discovering new versions of yourself too. And for Gargi, this travel experience has been about rediscovering hidden versions of herself that were slowly stifled over the years of growing up and trying to fit into society.

She learnt and fell in love again with Yoga for the mind, body and soul. She broke boundaries that she herself had created.  Gargi met so many women that empowered her with their own journeys.

This trip for her has been about being able to express herself better, through people, words, art, body and meditation. We recommend everyone to visit South East Asia on a budget and experience the rich culture and gorgeous natural beauty for yourself. Trust us, its worth it! 

To know more about Raghu Raahi’s adventures click here 

This article was contributed to Curly Tales by Raghu Raahi. If you have an article or similar experience to share, do write to us on [email protected]

Meanwhile, check out the top ten things you can do in Bangkok, in this video below. 

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India Connects Southeast Asia and Middle East, Says IndiGo Chairman – India Report

Bulbul Dhawan , Skift

April 22nd, 2024 at 11:00 PM EDT

Indian airlines are forging international partnerships and boosting connectivity at a rapid scale. These collaborations are helping India become an international hub.

Bulbul Dhawan

The Skift India Newsletter is your go-to platform for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

India is becoming a convenient hub for travel between Southeast Asia and the Middle East, IndiGo Chairman V Sumantran said during his address at a college in Chennai. He also cited the example of several airlines carrying passengers from places such as Bangkok to Jeddah or Dubai by connecting through Indian cities.

“India is slowly becoming a convenient hub for travel between South East Asia and the Middle East,” news agency PTI quoted him as saying.

Sumantran said there is huge growth that IndiGo can see coming out of this, as a result of which the airline has placed an order of 500 aircraft.

Speedy development in India: During his address, he asserted India is quickly undertaking infrastructural development. “We have about 140 operating airports now and this would increase to 220 by 2030. We are seeing a huge increase in regional travel,” he said. He added that many of the domestic routes are used by airlines for connectivity. 

Increasing partnerships: Indian airlines such as full-service carriers Vistara and Air India have a robust international network of interline and codeshare partners . Air India is also a part of the Star Alliance . IndiGo is also actively increasing its roster of international partners . 

These partnerships are playing an important role in making India the hub for international connectivity as well as making regional destinations in the country accessible for international passengers.

Air India to Debut New A350 on Delhi-Dubai Route

Full-service carrier Air India is set to debut its new A350 aircraft on the Delhi-Dubai route from May 1. The aircraft would feature Air India’s new livery, which was unveiled last year as part of the airline’s rebranding. With this, Air India becomes the only carrier to operate the A350 between India and Dubai, the airline said in a statement. 

Meanwhile, Air India sold its last four Boeing 747-400 jumbo jetliners . The last of the jumbo jets flew from Mumbai on Monday . Historically, the aircraft had served as the primary carrier for Air India’s international operations. 

Indian Railways Operates Record Number of Additional Trains in Summer 2024

The Indian Railways is operating a record 9,111 trips during this summer season, it has said in a statement . This is a 43% year-on-year increase in the number of trips operated by Indian Railways during the summer. 

Summer travel rush has been observed in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, West Bengal, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Delhi. 

IndiGo Set to Fly Direct From Chennai to Durgapur and Bangkok

Budget airline IndiGo is set to operate direct flights between Chennai and Durgapur in West Bengal from May 16. The airline is also set to resume flying the Chennai-Bangkok sector from May 15. 

The move will not only connect the tier II city of Durgapur with the Chennai metropolitan, but also allow passengers to fly between Durgapur and Bangkok via Chennai. Serving more than 125 routes, IndiGo is playing a key role in enhancing regional and international connectivity in India. 

“The enhanced accessibility and connectivity provided by these flights will not only strengthen  regional and international connectivity, but also create new trade and tourism opportunities,” said IndiGo head of sales Vinay Malhotra. With this, IndiGo is set to operate 69 direct flights to Thailand from seven Indian cities. 

Air India Suspends Flights to Tel Aviv Until April 30

Former national carrier Air India has suspended flights to Tel Aviv in Israel until April 30. This has come amid tensions between Israel and Iran as Iran attacked Israel on April 13 followed by Israel’s retaliation .

Air India said that it is monitoring the situation and “extending support to passengers who have confirmed bookings for travel to and from Tel Aviv during this period, with a one-time waiver on rescheduling and cancellation charges.”

Last week, the Indian civil aviation ministry had advised Indian airlines to assess risks before flying internationally. 

Cinnamon Hotels Appoints Palak Shah as Sales Vice President

Sri Lankan luxury hotel chain brand Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts has appointed Palak Shah as vice president of sales. Shah has been tasked with leading the company’s strategic sales initiatives, particularly focusing on India and key source markets. 

Prior to this, Shah was regional sales director for Southwest Asia at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group). At Cinnamon, he will also lead and oversee the company’s global sales offices in India, China, and the United Kingdom. 

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Photo credit: The IndiGo chairman said that many domestic routes in India are used by airlines for connectivity. Rudy and Peter Skitterians / Pixabay

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India connecting world! ‘Country becoming convenient hub for travel between South East Asia and West Asia’, says IndiGo parent exec

Sumantran said that there is huge growth in India and many domestic routes are used by airlines for connectivity.

IndiGo-parent InterGlobe Aviation’s Chairman of the Board of Directors V Sumantran has said that India is gradually marking its place as a convenient hub for travel between Southeast Asia and West Asia as airlines are preferring to move people by connecting through Indian cities.

Shedding light on IndiGo ’s journey

Speaking at the 65th Institute Day of the Indian Institute of Technology , Madras, he highlighted that IndiGo Airlines commenced as a budget carrier in 2006 and has secured a landmark position in the aviation sector with its monumental order of 500 aircraft in France, marking the largest single order in the industry ’s history.

“India needed an airline that will provide affordable travel for many of us and the net result we can see. Even now we see India really moving forward with a lot more speed on infrastructure development. We have about 140 operating airports now and that would become 220 by 2030. We are seeing a huge increase in regional travel,” Sumantran said.

He cited an example of several airlines transferring people from places like Bangkok via India to reach Jeddah or Dubai, adding India is becoming a convenient hub for the airlines. “So, there is huge growth that we can see coming out of this which has boldly allowed us to place an order of 500 aircraft that is the single largest aircraft order ever made in aviation history,” he added.

(With PTI inputs)

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