Southeast Asia

Highlights

• Phuket: Phuket attracts more people than any other destination in Southeast Asia. Thailand’s largest island has fine beaches, a hedonistic nightlife, an attractive old town and a surprising amount of countryside to look at.

• Taman Negara National Park: Lying on the verdant east coast of the Malay peninsular, Taman Negara (‘national park’ in Malay) was one of Malaysia’s first national parks and its most beautiful. With an abundance of flora and fauna, plunging waterfalls, meandering rivers, fantastic views and intrepid walkways, it is one of the finest parks in Southeast Asia.

• Angkor Wat: Cambodia’s Angkor Wat is stunning and is the most important architectural site in Southeast Asia with its numerous Khmer buildings. It has bags of history yet its scale is its most impressive attribute, covering 100 square kilometers.

• Grand Palace: The main attraction in Thailand is the opulent Grand Palace, a collection of the country’s finest temples. Among them is the royal temple (Wat Phra Kaew) which houses the Emerald Buddha.

• Luang Prabang: Laos’s fairest town hails from the 14th century and is a World Heritage site, preserving the uniqueness of the traditional village and its many intricate temples.

• Boracay: Appearing time and again on the ‘world’s best beaches’ lists, Boracay is a stunningly beautiful beach resort with white sand and calm waters. Adding to its appeal are the water activities and buzzing nightlife.

• Bali: Kuta beach is the main draw to Bali for hordes of Australians who come here to surf and enjoy the nightlife. Bali also has a deep-rooted culture and there are several temples and nature reserves on the island to boot.

• Ko Phi Phi: Thailand’s southern Phi Phi archipelago is a snorkelers’ dream and its fine mixture of sandy beaches, inviting coffee shops and laid back guesthouses attracts a certain type of fun-loving traveler. Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh are the main attraction.

• Ha Long Bay: Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s natural gems, a stunning collection of karsts and islets bordered by the Gulf of Tonkin. Ha Long Bay can be found in the northeast of the country and is a major stop off point for many tourists.

• Kinabalu National Park: Malaysia’s answer to Indonesia’s Mulu National Park on the island of Borneo is the impressive Kinabalu Park in Sabah. The park was set up to protect the area around Mount Kinabalu (Southeast Asia’s highest mountain) which features excellent walking across four climatic zones.

Countries

• Brunei: Brunei, located on the island of Borneo, is known for its dense rainforests, rich biodiversity, and a coastline along the South China Sea. The climate is equatorial, with high humidity and rainfall throughout the year. Key tourist sites include the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Ulu Temburong National Park, and the Royal Regalia Museum. Brunei is interesting for its wealth derived from oil and gas, its preserved rainforests, and its unique cultural heritage.

  Belait District • Brunei Muara District • Temburong District • Tutong District

• Cambodia: Cambodia is situated in Southeast Asia, characterized by its plains, rivers, and the Mekong Delta. The climate is tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons. Key tourist sites include Angkor Wat, the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, and the beaches of Sihanoukville. Cambodia is known for its ancient temples, tragic history under the Khmer Rouge, and traditional arts and crafts.

  Eastern Cambodia • Northwestern Cambodia • Siem Reap Province • Southern Cambodia

• East Timor: East Timor, located on the eastern half of the island of Timor, features rugged mountains, coral reefs, and pristine beaches. The climate is tropical, with a distinct dry season. Key tourist sites include Cristo Rei, Atauro Island, and the historical city of Baucau. East Timor is interesting for its recent independence, rich marine life, and Portuguese-influenced culture.

  Atauro Island • Baucau • Dili • Oecussi

• Indonesia: Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, is known for its volcanic landscapes, rainforests, and extensive coastline. The climate is tropical, with varying wet and dry seasons. Key tourist sites include Bali, Borobudur Temple, and Komodo National Park. Indonesia is known for its diverse cultures, rich biodiversity, and significant volcanic activity.

  Java • Kalimantan • Maluku • Nusa Tenggara (Bali) • Papua • Sulawesi • Sumatra

• Laos: Laos, a landlocked country in Southeast Asia, is characterized by its mountainous terrain, the Mekong River, and extensive forests. The climate is tropical monsoon, with a pronounced wet season. Key tourist sites include Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and the Plain of Jars. Laos is known for its serene landscapes, Buddhist temples, and traditional festivals.

  Northern Laos • Southern Laos • Vientiane and Surrounds

• Malaysia: Malaysia is split between the Malay Peninsula and the island of Borneo, featuring rainforests, mountains, and beautiful coastlines. The climate is equatorial, with high humidity and frequent rainfall. Key tourist sites include Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Towers, Penang Island, and the rainforests of Borneo. Malaysia is known for its cultural diversity and culinary variety.

  Johor • Kedah • Kelantan • Kuala Lumpur • Labuan • Melaka State • Negeri Sembilan • Pahang • Penang State • Perak • Perlis • Sabah • Sarawak • Selangor • Terengganu

• Myanmar: Myanmar, located in Southeast Asia, features diverse landscapes from the Irrawaddy River to the Shan Hills. The climate is tropical, with a distinct monsoon season. Key tourist sites include Bagan, Shwedagon Pagoda, and Inle Lake. Myanmar is interesting for its rich history, colonial architecture, and traditional arts.

  Central Myanmar • Mandalay and Surrounds • Northeastern Myanmar • Southern Myanmar • Western Myanmar • Yangon and Surrounds

• Philippines: he Philippines is an archipelago of over 7,000 islands with diverse geography including mountains, rainforests, and beaches. The climate is tropical, with a wet and dry season. Key tourist sites include Boracay, Banaue Rice Terraces, and Palawan’s Underground River. The Philippines is known for its beautiful beaches, festivals, and rich marine biodiversity.

  Luzon Island Group • Mindanao and Sulu • Palawan • The Visayas

• Singapore: Singapore is a city-state at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, known for its modern skyline, green spaces, and efficient urban planning. The climate is tropical rainforest, with consistent temperatures and high humidity. Key tourist sites include Marina Bay Sands, Sentosa Island, and the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Singapore is known for its clean environment, cultural mix, and as a global financial hub.

• Thailand: Thailand, located in Southeast Asia, features diverse geography including mountains in the north, fertile plains in the central region, and tropical beaches along its extensive coastline. The climate is tropical, with a rainy monsoon season and a dry season. Key tourist sites include Bangkok’s Grand Palace, the ancient city of Ayutthaya, and the beaches of Phuket and Krabi. Thailand is known for its rich stunning beaches, cultural heritage, historical temples, street markets, and delicious cuisine. Interesting facts for tourists include the country’s unique festivals such as Songkran (Thai New Year) and Loy Krathong (Festival of Lights), as well as its reputation for wellness retreats and traditional Thai massage.

  Bangkok • Central Thailand • Isaan • Northern Thailand • South-Eastern Thailand • Southern Thailand

• Vietnam: Vietnam stretches along the eastern coast of the Indochinese Peninsula, featuring mountains, rivers, and a long coastline. The climate varies from north to south, with a tropical monsoon climate. Key tourist sites include Ha Long Bay, Hanoi’s Old Quarter, and the Cu Chi Tunnels. Vietnam is known for its historical sites, scenic landscapes, and rich culinary traditions.

  Central Highlands • Mekong River Delta • North Central Vietnam • Northeast Vietnam • Northwest Vietnam • Red River Delta • South Central Coast • Southeast Vietnam

Cities

• Bangkok: (Thailand) - Known for its street life, ornate temples, and nightlife.
• Singapore: A global financial hub with a blend of modern skyscrapers and green spaces.
• Kuala Lumpur: (Malaysia) - Famous for its iconic Petronas Twin Towers and diverse cultural heritage.
• Ho Chi Minh City: (Vietnam) - A bustling metropolis with historic French colonial landmarks.
• Hanoi: (Vietnam) Renowned for its centuries-old architecture and cultural history.
• Manila: (Philippines) - A densely populated bayside city with a mix of modern and colonial architecture.
• Jakarta: (Indonesia) - Indonesia’s sprawling capital known for its urban culture and traffic congestion.
• Yangon: (Myanmar) - Notable for its colonial-era buildings and the gilded Shwedagon Pagoda.
• Phnom Penh: (Cambodia) - The capital city known for its historical sites, including the Royal Palace.
• Vientiane: (Laos) - A laid-back city along the Mekong River with notable Buddhist temples.

Islands & Beaches

• Phuket: (Thailand) - Known for its stunning beaches, great nightlife, and luxury resorts.
• Bali: (Indonesia) - Famous for its surf-friendly beaches, cultural landmarks, and scenic rice terraces.
• Boracay: (Philippines) - Renowned for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
• Langkawi: (Malaysia) - An archipelago known for its beaches, mangroves, and duty-free shopping.
• Palawan: (Philippines) - Celebrated for its limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and diverse marine life.
• Ko Samui: (Thailand) - Popular for its palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves, and luxury resorts.
• Gili Islands: (Indonesia) - Known for their clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and laid-back atmosphere.
• Nha Trang: (Vietnam) - Famous for its long beaches, diving spots, and beachside nightlife.
• Sihanoukville: (Cambodia) - Known for its sandy beaches, nearby islands, and relaxed vibe.
• Perhentian Islands: (Malaysia) - Celebrated for their crystal-clear waters, snorkeling, and diving sites.

National Parks

• Khao Sok National Park (Thailand) Known for its ancient rainforest, towering limestone cliffs, and stunning Cheow Lan Lake.
• Gunung Mulu National Park (Malaysia) Famous for its limestone karst formations, vast cave systems, and diverse ecosystems.
• Komodo National Park (Indonesia) Home to the Komodo dragon, the largest lizard in the world.
• Kinabalu National Park (Malaysia) Featuring Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia.
• Bako National Park (Malaysia) Known for its unique rock formations, wildlife, and accessible trails.
• Taman Negara (Malaysia) One of the world’s oldest rainforests, offering canopy walks, jungle trekking, and wildlife.
• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (Vietnam) Renowned for its impressive cave systems, including Son Doong, the world’s largest cave.
• Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park (Indonesia) A UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its endangered species like the Sumatran tiger and rhinoceros.
• Khao Yai National Park (Thailand) Thailand’s oldest national park, known for its waterfalls, wildlife, and lush forests.
• Hala-Bala Wildlife Sanctuary (Thailand) Famous for its rainforests and biodiversity, including rare bird species.

World Heritage

• Angkor: (Cambodia) Home to the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex and numerous other ancient Khmer structures.
• Borobudur: (Indonesia) The largest Buddhist temple in the world, known for its intricate carvings and expansive terraces.
• Halong Bay: (Vietnam) Famous for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests.
• Luang Prabang: (Laos) A city known for its well-preserved architectural, religious, and cultural heritage from the French colonial era and beyond.
• Ayutthaya: (Thailand) The historic ruins of the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam, featuring impressive temples and palaces.
• Sukhothai: (Thailand) The ruins of the first capital of Thailand, showcasing classic Sukhothai architecture and ancient temples.
• Bagan: (Myanmar) An archaeological area with thousands of ancient temples and pagodas spread across a vast plain.
• Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras: (Philippines) A remarkable agricultural landscape of terraces carved into the mountains over 2,000 years ago.
• Kinabalu Park: (Malaysia) Known for Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s tallest peak, and significant plant diversity.
• Hoi An Ancient Town: (Vietnam) A well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century.

Southeast Asia is typically hot and sticky for most of the year and it also rains a lot owing to seasonal monsoons effecting different parts of the region at different times. The whole region lies within the tropics, with Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and southern Thailand being closest to the equator and thus the hottest, while Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and central and northern parts of Thailand are slightly cooler.

Most of Southeast Asia remains hot and dry between April and May, with monsoonal rain between June and October, and cool, dry winds from November to February. Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore and the Philippines have a wet season (in winter) and a dry season (in summer). Temperatures can hit the high 30s (°C) in the dry season and hover around 25°C in the wet season.

November to February: This is the most popular time for tourists, since most come to escape the winters of Europe and North America, thus hotel rates and crowds are at their worst. For Thailand, Malaysia, Burma, Cambodia, Laos and southern Vietnam it’s also coolest and generally rain free. The east coast of southern Thailand and parts of Malaysia suffer unique monsoons at this time, and tropical downpours are common in Singapore. Contrary to other countries, this is also the wettest time for southern and eastern Indonesia, including Bali. The Philippines also gets the tail end of its wet season towards the end of the year, while northern Vietnam is decidedly chilly and often misty.

March to June: Generally the hottest time of the year for central Southeast Asia when the tropical heat can be unbearable, especially in Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, Burma, southern Vietnam and Singapore. Haze affects the northern reaches of the Southeast Asian interior where seasonal burning is a problem, making sightseeing disappointing, and it can get very dry although storms bring heavy rain in May. It remains dry through most of Indonesia and the Philippines during this period.

July to October: Considered the ‘wet season’ for much of the region, these months are characterized by torrential rainstorms in most countries where several heavy downpours in the space of day are not uncommon. It might be cloudy for a week, or lovely and sunny with a few threatening cumulonimbus clouds in the late afternoon. A patina of green rice paddies dominates the landscape, and the Philippines suffers particularly from heavy storms and occasional typhoons. By contrast, it is mostly dry across Indonesia with the rains arriving in September on Sumatra.

Northern Southeast Asia: The more northerly climes of Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam generally have hot, wet and dry seasons with the cool (dry) season running from November and late February. The wet season in these parts of Southeast Asia are also a lot milder than farther south, where rain is generally short-lived and days can still be pleasant.

In mountainous areas of northern Thailand, Vietnam, Burma and in Laos, the winter months between November and March can get decidedly chilly and it is worth packing accordingly if traveling during this time.

Tropical Southeast Asia: Most of the rest of Southeast Asia, including Singapore, Malaysia and southern Thailand, remain hot and humid year-round, with temperatures around the mid-30s (°C) and with high humidity. The only escape is to head for the high altitude regions of these countries although Singapore suffers in this respect as it is pretty much flat.

The heat in Southeast Asian cities during the hot periods can be excruciating as there is a lack of air flow, plus the heat and pollution from the traffic exacerbate things. Wearing light cotton clothing during these times is a must and, luckily, cheap clothing is widely available.

Most large cities in Southeast Asia, with the exception of Singapore, have high levels of pollution. This problem is made worse in Malaysia, Brunei, and Sumatra in Indonesia from the haze created from ‘slash and burn’ forest fires in the dry season (May to October).

Southeast Asia is made up of over 20,000 islands and covers a gigantic area within the tropics where active volcanoes, dense rainforests and large mountains reside. With this comes great scope for activities including trekking, diving, surfing, white water rafting and rock climbing, as well as the chance to spot some of the world’s most unique animals.

Cultural Experiences

• Angkor Wat, Cambodia: Explore the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the largest religious monument in the world.
• Borobudur, Indonesia: Visit the world’s largest Buddhist temple, Borobudur, known for its intricate carvings and stunning sunrise views.
• Luang Prabang, Laos: Discover the blend of traditional Lao architecture and French colonial buildings in this UNESCO World Heritage town.
• Hoi An, Vietnam: Wander through the ancient town of Hoi An, famous for its well-preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, and tailor shops.
• Bali’s Cultural Sites, Indonesia: Experience Bali’s rich culture by visiting Uluwatu Temple, watching traditional dance performances, and exploring the art markets of Ubud.

Natural Experiences

• Ha Long Bay, Vietnam: Cruise through the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, dotted with thousands of limestone karsts and isles.
• Komodo National Park, Indonesia: Encounter the world’s largest lizards, the Komodo dragons, and enjoy diving in one of the most biodiverse marine areas.
• Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia: Hike to the summit of Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia, for breathtaking views.
• Elephant Nature Park, Thailand: Visit this sanctuary near Chiang Mai to learn about and care for rescued elephants in a responsible and ethical environment.
• Palawan, Philippines: Explore the pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning lagoons of El Nido and Coron in Palawan.

Urban Experiences

• Bangkok, Thailand: Experience the vibrant street life, ornate temples, and bustling markets of Bangkok, including the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.
• Singapore: Discover the futuristic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and world-class attractions like Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands.
• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: Visit iconic landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers, Batu Caves, and the bustling markets of Bukit Bintang.
• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Dive into the energetic atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City, exploring its historical sites, vibrant nightlife, and culinary delights.
• Manila, Philippines: Explore the historic Intramuros district, modern shopping centers, and the vibrant nightlife of the Philippine capital.

Unique Experiences

• Songkran Festival, Thailand: Celebrate the Thai New Year with a countrywide water fight, marking one of the most joyous and unique festivals in Southeast Asia.
• Floating Markets, Thailand: Experience the traditional floating markets near Bangkok, such as Damnoen Saduak, where vendors sell goods from boats.
• Plain of Jars, Laos: Explore the mysterious Plain of Jars, an archaeological landscape filled with thousands of ancient stone jars of unknown origin.
• Rafflesia Flower, Malaysia: Trek through the rainforests of Borneo to witness the blooming of the Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower.
• Rice Terraces of Banaue, Philippines: Visit the UNESCO-listed Banaue Rice Terraces, often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” for their stunning agricultural engineering.

Many travelers to Southeast Asia experience mild illness or an upset stomach on their first trip to the region, often caused by the humidity, heat, change in food and consumption of non-potable water. To protect against serious illnesses, there are a number of vaccinations travelers can have before arriving in the region.

While many minor sicknesses can be treated with over the counter medicine in Southeast Asia, you may need to visit a hospital in the event of an emergency. The region has many leading health-care facilities, with the best hospitals available in Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong. Outside major cities, facilities can be inadequate, making medical insurance a must.

Crime is not a major risk in Southeast Asia, but it pays to keep a close eye on your belongings in busy areas. Terrorism has affected some areas, most notably Bali, and travelers to affected areas should stay abreast of warnings and advice.

Scams & Petty Crime

While violent crime against foreigners is not common in the region, petty theft is a regular occurrence at busy tourist centers. Avoid traveling alone at night or frequenting poorly-lit areas. It pays to pay attention to your belongings when in bars and nightclubs, which are hotspots for thieves. In rural areas crime is even less common, but don’t be laid back about safety.

Political Unrest

Although the region is devoid of regional cross-border conflict, southern Thailand and areas of the southern Philippines are currently experiencing conflict and terrorism arising from Islamic insurgency, and visitors are advised to avoid these areas. East Timor and Burma are susceptible to political uprisings and riots, and visitors to these countries must ensure they are up to date with the situation.

Diseases

Diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, dengue fever and rabies are prevalent in parts of the region, while less fatal illnesses such as hepatitis A and B, and dysentery more commonly affect travelers. Visitors should only eat at hygienic-looking establishments, they should not consume tap water and they should use protection when engaging in sexual activities while abroad. Ensure you are up to date with relevant vaccinations before leaving home.

Nature’s Fury

The Philippines, Vietnam and Burma are at risk of typhoons during the May to November rainy season. These tropical storms can cause flooding and disease epidemics, and can effect public transport. The rainy season in other parts of the region rarely brings with it danger, but boat travel during storms can be dangerous.

Sexual Harrassment

Women have little to concern themselves with when it comes to traveling alone in Southeast Asia. The region is generally safe, with the greatest risks being those of petty theft and disease. It pays for women to dress modesty when traveling in the region, however, as wearing revealing clothing may cause unwanted attention and offence.

There is a huge need for English language instructors and NGO workers throughout the region, with posts easy to get on arrival. Many schools require their foreign teachers to have experience and a teaching certificate, but it is still possible to find part-time teaching work without any formal qualifications.

Aside from teaching and NGO work, jobs in other fields are difficult to come by, with local employers preferring to hire less costly locals. There are many volunteer posts, however, and long-stay visas for charity work can usually be obtained without difficulty. Part-time bar work is not open to foreigners.

TEFL

While it is possible to pick up casual teaching work quite easily, securing a long-term visa can be difficult. It is necessary for the organization or company you work for to sponsor your application, which can be costly and time consuming. In addition, many companies cannot fulfill government requirements to employ foreigners.

Studying

Studying in the region is an option, with courses in higher education often costing a third of what they would in the UK or the US. Applications can be made in your country of residence; once you receive a letter of acceptance, you may apply for a student visa.

Singapore, where English is widely spoken, is a popular place to study among English speaking students, with other countries in the region presenting language obstacles. Aside from language instruction, it is not possible to study in Cambodia, Laos or Burma. Language courses in Thailand and Malaysia are popular among foreigners who are interesting in remaining in the region long term.

Digital Nomad

Southeast Asia is a vibrant and diverse region that has become a hotspot for digital nomads from around the globe. The region’s appeal lies in its affordable cost of living, warm climate, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of Bali, Southeast Asia offers a wide range of environments that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Additionally, the region’s well-established travel infrastructure, growing number of coworking spaces, and friendly local communities make it an ideal base for remote workers seeking both productivity and adventure.

Major cities and popular tourist destinations typically have good internet infrastructure. Coworking spaces are plentiful, offering high-speed internet, comfortable work environments, and opportunities to network with other remote workers. Many cafes also offer free Wi-Fi, making it easy to find a suitable spot to work. Some top coworking spaces in the region include Dojo Bali in Bali, The Hive in Bangkok, and Toong in Hanoi.

• Bali, Indonesia: Bali remains a top choice for digital nomads, particularly in areas like Canggu, Ubud, and Seminyak. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a plethora of coworking spaces like Dojo Bali and Hubud, Bali offers a perfect blend of work and leisure. The island’s yoga retreats, surf spots, and cultural landmarks add to its allure, making it a well-rounded destination for remote workers.

• Chiang Mai, Thailand: Known for its laid-back atmosphere and affordable living, Chiang Mai is a favorite among digital nomads. The city boasts a thriving expat community, numerous coworking spaces such as Punspace and Hub 53, and a variety of cafes with reliable internet. Surrounded by mountains and dotted with temples, Chiang Mai offers a peaceful yet stimulating environment for work and exploration.

• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: This bustling metropolis is known for its energetic vibe, modern amenities, and dynamic coworking scene. Spaces like Dreamplex and Work Saigon cater to the needs of digital nomads, offering high-speed internet and networking opportunities. The city’s rich history, vibrant street food culture, and lively nightlife make it an exciting place to live and work.

• Penang, Malaysia: With its rich cultural heritage and burgeoning tech scene, Penang has become an attractive destination for digital nomads. George Town, the island’s capital, is known for its colonial architecture, street art, and diverse culinary offerings. Coworking spaces like @CAT Penang provide excellent facilities for remote workers, while the island’s beaches and hills offer plenty of recreational activities.

Cost of Living

One of the biggest draws of Southeast Asia for digital nomads is the low cost of living. In cities like Chiang Mai, Bali, and Ho Chi Minh City, you can find comfortable accommodation, eat out at local restaurants, and enjoy various activities at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries. Monthly expenses can vary depending on lifestyle, but generally, digital nomads can live comfortably on a budget of $1,000 to $2,000 per month, including rent, food, transportation, and entertainment.