Southeast Asia is the abode of some of the most beautiful places in the world. It is so vast and with so many different places to visit. Planning a trip to some of these places should be on your bucket list.
From the sprawling city of Singapore to the idyllic beaches of Thailand. And from the streets of Bangkok to the pristine beaches of Bali, there is something for everyone.
El Nido, is the crown jewel of the Philippines, where limestone cliffs tower majestically over the turquoise lagoons, hiding secret beaches and enchanting coves. An island-hopping boat tour is more than an activity, it is a voyage of discovery through an aquatic dreamland. Dive into the crystal-clear waters to discover an underwater paradise filled with diverse aquatic life and vibrant coral reefs.
When you visit Penang, you get to explore George Town, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where colonial architecture and street art tell the story of the city’s past. Discover the spiritual angle of Penang as you visit the Kek Lok Si Temple, a hilltop sanctuary of tranquillity. Your taste buds lead the way as you visit the Gurney Drive well known for its delicious street food and gastronomic experiences.
Conclusion: Southeast Asia is huge and full of natural beauty, so finding the best destinations can be a real challenge.
Bali, Indonesia
The enchanting Island of the Gods is best explored with the Bali Tour. Where the lush verdant landscape of terraced rice paddies meets the golden hue of pristine beaches. In Bali, the sacred entangles with every day, presenting a unique blend of culture and nature. Delve into the spiritual core of Bali at Tanah Lot and Uluwatu Temples, as they rest precariously on the edges of rugged cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean and their mystical charm only enhanced by the dramatic sunsets. Ubud is the cultural heart of the island, as it invites you for a stroll through the vibrant art markets, and discover tranquillity in the Sacred Monkey Forest. Travel to Seminyak and Kuta for an exhilarating mix of vibrant beach clubs and impressive surf spots. From rejuvenating yoga retreats in the middle of lush landscapes to the rhythmic beat of traditional Kecak dance shows, Bali is a kaleidoscope of experiences that inspire, stimulate, and enchant.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Explore the capital city of Hanoi with the Vietnam tour as it is known for its rich centuries-old architecture and culture with Southeast Asian, Chinese, and French influences. The streets of the Old Quarter date back to the fourteenth century. As one wanders through these tree-lined lanes past crumbling colonial structures will transport one back in time. Old Quarter Is also known as the Hoan Kiem District or simply 36 Streets and is one of the oldest neighbourhoods, and most popular attractions. It is home to famous hotels, historical attractions, cafes, and tourist street shops. Hoan Kiem Lake or Turtle Lake is a serene spot in Hanoi. It is a perfect location for unwinding after a long day. The lake is encompassed by the Ngoc Son Temple, with its iconic red bridge, as it paints a pretty picture. As the lake lies close to the Old Quarter, it gets busy with life early morning and late evening. People can be seen here exercising, practising tai chi and line dancing, or just casually hanging out. Hoa Lo Museum is all that remains of the Hoa Lo Prison. It was used to capture Vietnamese and American political prisoners during the colonial period and the Vietnam War. The museum stands here today to recreate the living conditions of the colonial era and the Vietnam War.
Bangkok, Thailand
The busy street markets and ancient temples compete for space among the skyscrapers with astounding heights. With its fabulous floating markets, its alluring architectural works of art, intermixing modern design and traditional influence, Bangkok is a must-visit destination for everyone looking for something a little outside the box. Baiyoke Sky is a hotel with an observation deck from where you get a bird’s eye view of Bangkok. Built in 1990 it has risen to popularity because of its size, delectable buffets and restaurants, and offering incredible hospitality and ultra-luxury to its guests. Treat your eyes to the unique floating markets of Damnoen Saduk, as merchants row through canal waters on their fully stacked boats to sell fruits to locals and visitors on their boats. While in Bangkok explore Chinatown as it is located away from the Bangkok City Center, and is considered to be the largest Chinatown in the world. Visit Yaowarat Road where a large area is dedicated to the best Chinese food and seafood specialties like shrimp and stir-fried crab. Royal Grand Palace is not only the biggest attraction but also one of the best things to see in Bangkok. It is a palace of immense importance, from being the residence of Thai Royalty in 1782 to being the holy space for Buddhism.
The Philippines
If you want variety in Southeast Asia, then few locations are better than the Philippines, an archipelago in the Pacific Ocean consisting of more than 7,000 islands. Of those islands, top spots like Boracay and Sirago have consistently rated as some of the best travel destinations in the world, and it’s hardly surprising – Filipino islands have some of the best sandy beaches imaginable. And, beaches aren’t all the Philippines has to offer. These islands also boast a variety of astounding natural wonders, including the Puerto Princesa Subterranean river near Palawan, an underground river with a recently-discovered second floor that boasts wonderful waterfalls, 300m cave domes, and marine creatures galore. Visitors can also enjoy spectacular sites like the Banaue Rice Terraces, which were carved into the mountains of Ifugao by ancestors of the Igorot people and offer a breathtaking insight into Filipino history. More generally speaking, a visit to the Philippines can see tourists enjoying great weather almost all year round, and a friendly culture that centres around warm hospitality. The Philippines is also incredibly budget-friendly, with cheap accommodation, great package deals, and affordable food in most locations. It’s also surprisingly easy to send money to the Philippines meaning that, even if visitors overspend during their stay, they can quickly top up their bank accounts to ensure that they never need to miss out on what these iconic islands have to offer.
Singapore
Singapore with its futuristic gardens and its towering skyscrapers, is a wonder that bridges East and West. Around every corner, one finds something new to explore, a new adventure to endeavour, a new selfie to take. Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands is an architectural masterpiece as it houses over forty restaurants, a three-story large art gallery, a museum, the world’s most expensive standalone casino, two shopping malls, and the world’s longest elevated pool. The infinity pool here is 150 meters long with a height of 200 m and stands on top of the three towers featuring a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Gardens by the Bay is a 250-acre garden that spans over three waterfront parks in Singapore’s Marina Bay area. It features many attractions, including a 22-m tall cloud forest dome, both indoor and outdoor waterfalls, and most importantly it is a horticulturist’s paradise with 200,000 plants. Sentosa Island is the ultimate playground which includes attractions like beaches, theme parks, and Singapore’s first casino. Universal Studios, without a doubt, is a must-visit attraction for your itinerary, regardless of how long is your visit. There is something for everyone with rides for kids and adults to shops, cafes, and kiosks selling refreshments.
Conclusion: This group of countries between the Indian and Pacific oceans are like tropical paradises full of fun and adventure. Here one can trek through dense forests, dive in some of the best coral reefs or chill out by hanging at the beach. With so much to explore it can be a little difficult to choose where to go.