Quickly becoming one of the world’s top vacation regions, Southeast Asia is a wonderful land that combines so many different elements together. You can easily spend days lost in their large, metropolitan cities or spend your time roaming through the jungles.
If that doesn’t seem like your kind of trip, you can always make for the beaches and spend your time relaxing along the white sands next to the clear, blue waters. The only worry you’ll have is trying to stave off jet lag.
If you’re not exactly sure where you should go next, take a look at the list below in order to get your gears turning before you embark on your next adventure.
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1. Thailand
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You’d be hard-pressed to find a country that smiles more than the people of Taiwan, who consider a friendly smile to be the staple of their tourist industry.
It wouldn’t be a trip to Taiwan without making a pit stop in the nation’s capital, Bangkok. Bangkok is filled with street markets and amazing street food. The street food has everything you could want, like full meals, snacks, and fruit scattered around. If you want to get a taste, Netflix’s documentary Street Food has an episode in Bangkok.
Make sure you get a ride on a Tuk Tuk, three-wheeled vehicles that are scattered around the country and are the preferred ride.
To escape the city, head to one of the local beaches Koh Phangan or Koh Phi Phi. Both are perfect for relaxing during the day or attending a fun beach party at night. According to www.Islander.io experts, Koh Phi Phi is not only one of the best island chains in Thailand, but among the top island destinations of whole Southeast Asia.
2. Vietnam
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Vietnam is another jewel right in Southeast Asia that brings in visitors from all over the world. The country is full of huge cities, spectacular beaches and incredible landscapes. For first-time travelers, your best bet is to start in one of two cities: Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh.
Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam while Ho Chi Minh is the second largest city. Many people choose to spend multiple days in one city, or in both if they have the time before venturing away from the streets and tall buildings and to the countryside.
One of those top spots is Sa Pa, a remote village where you can experience authentic Vietnamese culture and lifestyle.
If you’re looking to get to the water, checking out Halong Bay is a must. The bay is filled with thousands of tiny islands, all accessible by boat or kayak. While you’re going around, you can also take in the breathtaking waterfalls scattered about.
3. Singapore
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The tiny island of Singapore is an urban paradise that is also recognized as being the cleanest country in the entire world. Travelers should know that even the slightest misstep can mean a significant punishment. Common actions like spitting, throwing out gum or tossing a cigarette could result in a fine.
After you don’t spit anywhere, make sure you head to Gardens by the Bay. This floral wonderland is filled with incredible structures and amazing views from rooftop pools, like the Marina Bay Sands.
In case you’re looking for some thrill and adrenaline, the island is also home to a Universal Studios theme park.
The most noticeable downside to Singapore is that it is much pricier than neighboring countries. Make sure you pack some extra cash with you before you make your way over.
4. Borneo
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Borneo may not immediately pop up in your memory and for good reason. Borneo itself isn’t a country, but an island shared by three different countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. With beaches on all sides (literally), the island is a paradise for those looking to explore nature.
The island isn’t home to just beaches but is filled with one of Asia’s largest rainforests and a number of national parks. Be sure to take a tour through the rainforest with Borneo Eco Tours. The two most popular are Gunung Mulu and Kinabalu which offer plenty of hiking and biking trails.
For those wanting something a bit more challenging, head off to Sabah, the tallest mountain on the island. The 13,000-foot climb isn’t for beginners but it does offer the best place to watch a sunset or sunrise.
There are also plenty of smaller islands scattered around Borneo. Travelers often rent boats to make their way around to explore the islands or find a nice, quiet swimming spot.
