See full version: 29 Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia will appeal to active, adventuresome travelers, who want to trek through steamy jungles, dive in some of the world’s best coral reefs, camp or go whitewater rafting on new rivers. But the region also offers the less active travelers something, who, after a day of visiting temples and other cultural sites, just want to relax in comfort in a luxury hotel. An overview of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia:
Located in northeastern Vietnam, Ha Long Bay resembles a scene from a fantasy story with its thousands of limestone karst islands of different shapes and sizes. Some of the islands contain lakes while some are hollow, with a colorful fairyland of grottoes inside.
Inle Lake, located in southeast Myanmar, is the country’s second largest lake. The Intha people live in small villages round the lake and in floating houses on the lake itself, making for a picturesque scene. Besides fishing, locals also grow fruits and veggies on floating gardens. more
Picture this: you’re on a laid-back getaway somewhere in the world, surrounded by dazzling white sand and impossibly turquoise waters. Your plan of the day? Go island-hopping or simply explore the sea by boat. Sounds cool, doesn’t it? Not really, we’d say. more
See, a mistake many of us do is assume that the only way to visit nearby islands is by hopping on a tourist boat or ferry. It’s not a bad thing of course – especially if you want to save money – but these boats can get really crowded. Plus they also usually have a reputation for not allowing you to take your own time. here
That’s why we suggest that you going on a sailing trip instead. Although chartering yachts are indeed not the cheapest available option, they offer you ample time to experience the sea. There’s really nothing to lose on your side because the bucks you’ll be spending will be totally worth it. here
NSFW: These places are so gorgeous they’ll make you suffer from severe distraction issues.
Several cruise lines (large and small) visit Indonesian ports during the year, including Azamara, Viking, Silversea, Seabourn, Princess, Regent, Oceania and Star Clippers.
Southeast Asia is a traveler's nirvana, offering natural wonders like the mystical limestone islands of Halong Bay, timeless treasures in the storybook temples of Thailand and Cambodia, and booming cities such as Hong Kong and Singapore. The people are courteous and welcoming, proud of their rich culture, distinctive crafts, magical architecture and captivating cuisine. All combine to offer cruisers an unforgettable experience.
On the other end, cities such as Singapore, Hong Kong and Bangkok have been tourist destinations for a much longer time, which is reflected in their new port facilities, sophisticated public transportation systems, upscale accommodations and fine dining options.
Luxury lines with Southeast Asian itineraries include Crystal, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas and Silversea. High-end Viking Orion, several of Ponant ships and Azamara's Journey and Quest offer itineraries in March through May and August to November annually. Windstar sails January through April, and Oceania runs from December through April. Royal Caribbean and Cunard sail the region during the first few months of the year while Costa, Holland America Line and Princess have several ships that sail there year-round. Celebrity sails from September through April.
National Park’s main attraction is Komodo Island and is particularly notable as the habitat of the Komodo dragon, the largest lizard on Earth. Komodo dragons are 3 meters in length and weigh around 70 kgs. They can run and swim at a speed of 20 Kmph and can also eat up to 80% of their body weight in one go. [links]
Best Time to visit Java: During the dry season which spans from May to September, when days are hot, dry, and sunny. These months are also an ideal time to travel if you are planning on climbing the mountains of Bromo or Ijen.
What not to miss: Climbing Mount Bromo and Tumpak Sewu Waterfall to name a few.
How to reach Java: Most of the international flights go to Jakarta and some of them fly to Surabaya in East Java. Depending on where you want to go in Java, you can choose domestic flights or travel by road.
Recommended days: 10-15 days [links]
Cebu is known for its white-sand beaches and spectacular diving, especially in the north of Cebu at Malapascua and down on the southwest coast at Moalboal. On the other side, Cebu City has many lively bars, emerging eateries, and increasing retail appeal. It is the only place where you can get western food easily because of multiple mega shopping malls.
Imagine an early morning hot air balloon ride over the scenic landscape of Vang Vieng with the morning light falling on limestone cliffs. Sounds, breathtaking? Well, it is like a painting coming to life.
Some of the best islands in Palawan are El Nido, Coron, and Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and New 7 Wonders of Nature. It’s one of the most famous sites in Palawan.
Location: Northern Vietnam
Best Time to visit Halong Bay: The dry season from February to May is the best time to visit.
How to reach Halong Bay: The best way to get to Halong City is by car, minibus, or bus from Hanoi which is only 170 km away.
Recommended days: 2 days here
Southeast Asia is a group of diverse countries between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, featuring indigenous cultures influenced by Indian, Chinese and Western culture. The region includes the most populous Muslim country in the world, very prominent Buddhist countries, and quite significant Christian, Hindu and Animist communities.
What started out as a small trading post in the 15th century has now grown into a city of eight million people: Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. Visitors will find plenty of photo ops at the city’s famous floating markets where they can also buy veggies, tropical fruits and Thai snacks made in a floating kitchen. When travelers grow weary of visiting temples, they can visit a snake farm or just go shopping.
Boracay is a small island located less than 320 km (200 miles) south of Manila, the country’s capital. It is most famous for its beautiful beaches, which various travel publications have termed some of the best in Southeast Asia. here