International

Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia

By Daniel Tan12 Jan 20269 min read

Southeast Asia has long been a favourite region for travellers of all budgets. Its countries are connected by affordable flights and overland routes, and each offers a distinctive mix of culture, food and landscapes. Here are five highlights that make an excellent introduction.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali combines temples, rice terraces, surf beaches and a deep Hindu culture. Ubud is the cultural heart, with craft villages and dance performances. The south has beaches and surf, while the north and east are quieter and more traditional.

Bangkok, Thailand

Thailand's capital is energetic and full of contrasts. Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, take a boat along the Chao Phraya River and explore night markets. Bangkok's street food is legendary.

Singapore

Clean, efficient and diverse, Singapore is an easy entry point into the region. Explore Gardens by the Bay, the heritage areas of Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Glam, and eat at hawker centres for excellent, affordable meals.

Vietnam

From the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and the energy of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam offers enormous variety. Overnight trains and buses connect north and south.

Malaysia

Malaysia combines modern Kuala Lumpur with colonial Penang, the cool Cameron Highlands and the rainforests of Borneo. Its food blends Malay, Chinese and Indian influences.

Cultural experiences

Respect temple dress codes, remove shoes where required and observe local customs. Taking a cooking class, staying in a homestay or attending a local festival can deepen your understanding of each culture.

Food

Food is one of the region's great joys: nasi goreng in Indonesia, pad thai and som tam in Thailand, pho and banh mi in Vietnam, laksa in Malaysia and chicken rice in Singapore.

Budget considerations

Costs vary widely. Singapore is relatively expensive, while much of Vietnam, Indonesia and Thailand can be affordable. Budget for flights between countries and check entry requirements for each.

Planning tips

Choose two or three countries rather than trying to see everything. Consider seasons, as monsoon timings differ across the region.

Conclusion

Southeast Asia rewards curiosity. Eat adventurously, travel overland when you can and stay open to the warmth of local communities. It is a region many travellers return to again and again.

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