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• Ho Chi Minh City
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South East Asia Tours & Holidays

Frenetic yet tranquil, modern yet traditional, sweet yet spicy – South East Asia is the best of everything wrapped up in one tidy package.

A place where natural beauty, sleepless cities, taste-bud-tingling cuisine and wondrous wildlife collide. It’s here, amongst this cluster of captivating countries, that you can honestly say there’s something for everyone. From devouring banh mi at a street food stall in Hanoi to cycling through the green hills of Ubud . Interacting with the local Batak tribe living on Palawan to visiting the world’s first elephant hospital in Chiang Mai . We dare you to discover South East Asia and be able to leave not already craving more. 

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Travel globally and think locally with Intrepid leader San Tao

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South east asia travel faqs, what countries are a part of south east asia.

The region of South East Asia encompasses the following countries:

Philippines

Timor-Leste

Do I need a visa to travel to South East Asia?

Whether you need a visa to travel to South East Asia depends on what country you're a national of and which country you travel to.

Generally, passport holders from the United States, Canada, New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom don't need visas to travel around South East Asia, but visa requirements will vary from country to country.

For example, citizens from the previously mentioned countries will need a visa to travel to Vietnam, however, they won't require a visa for Thailand. 

If you're unsure of the visa requirements of the country you're travelling to, it's best to check on government-run websites or at your nearest embassy or consulate. 

What is the internet access like in South East Asia?

The internet access in South East Asia can vary from country to country and between different regions in that country.

Most hotel chains or other accommodation options in major cities will have wi-fi, so it'll be easy to connect to the internet.

B uying an international SIM card with a local provider is recommended if you'd rather have no restrictions (and no exorbitant data roaming fees). This still doesn't mean you're guaranteed to have access to the internet though as the signal is often limited or unreliable in rural areas in countries such as Laos, Timor-Leste and Myanmar. 

What are the toilets like in South East Asia?

The toilet facilities in South East Asia differ depending on which country you're in and what region of that country you're in.

Most major cities have westernised toilet facilities in places such as restaurants and hotels, but the further from urban areas you are, the more likely you'll find squat toilets, so set your expectations accordingly.

Toilet paper is also a rare find unless you're in major cities or popular tourist areas, so it's best to always pack your own in preparation. 

Can I drink the water in South East Asia?

There aren't many countries in South East Asia where the tap water is recommended for drinking, especially in Laos and Cambodia.

To avoid getting sick, buy bottled water or use filtered water to brush your teeth.

You should also be mindful when showering, ask for drinks with no ice in them and peel all fruit before you eat them.

While Malaysia is considered to have the safest drinking water, it still has a different mineral content than your stomach might be used to so it's best to stick to filtered or bottled water where possible. 

When is the best time to visit South East Asia?

The best time to travel to South East Asia is between November and February when the weather is relatively dry, humidity levels are low and temperatures are warm but not uncomfortable.

However, this is considered to be 'peak season' so expect large crowds at popular tourist destinations and increased accommodation prices in major cities.

If you want to avoid all of that, try travelling during the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November.

If you can, avoid travelling from June to August as this is South East Asia's rainy, cyclone season. 

Is tipping common in South East Asia?

While it might not be as prevalent as it is in the US, tipping is still part of the culture in most South East Asian countries.

H ow much you tip and in what scenarios tipping is expected will differ depending on the country you travel in.

For example, tipping isn't expected or required in Malaysia and Singapore (and can even be considered rude), but countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia are starting to accept tipping culture. 

What currency will I need in South East Asia?

The currency you need when travelling in South East Asia depends on which countries you'll be visiting, with each country having its own currency.

Here is a list of countries with their currencies:

• Vietnam - Vietnamese Dong (VND)
• Indonesia - Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
• Singapore - Singapore Dollar (SGD) 
• Cambodia - Cambodian Riel (KHR)
• Malaysia - Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) 
• Thailand - Thai Baht (THB)
• Philippines - Philippine Peso (PHP)
• Myanmar - Myanmar Kyat (MMK)
• Timor-Leste - United States Dollars (USD)
• Laos - Lao Kip (LAK)  
• Brunei - Brunei Dollar (BND)

Do I need to bring cash with me to South East Asia?

It's worth bringing cash with you if you're travelling around South East Asia, as paying with cash is still very prevalent in most countries.

Countries like Vietnam and Thailand are big on markets and hawker hall type cafeterias, so having cash is usually the easiest way to buy things and makes bargaining for items more accessible.  

Is South East Asia safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Most of the countries in South East Asia have a thriving LGBTQIA+ scene, especially Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia.

Discretion is still advised for travellers of the LGBTQIA+ community when it comes to public displays of affection, particularly if you're travelling away from the larger cities to more rural areas where acceptance of same-sex relationships may not be as common. 

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

South East Asia Guided Tours & Trips

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Bali Bucket List Original 10 Day Tour

Amazing thailand, cambodia and vietnam 18 days, southeast asia discovery 19 days, 31-day southeast asia circuit: epic adventures across four nations, endless beauty of vietnam, cambodia and thailand - 19 days, vietnam and cambodia - 12 days. departure every monday from hanoi, southeast asia discovery: seasides and street food, 14 days across vietnam and cambodia: history and culture tour, best of thailand - feel free travel, southeast asia encompassed.

“The absolute highlight was snorkelling with a manta ray and sea turtles! We loved the cooking class and got to try a variety of different Indonesian dishes.” Kate Johnson, traveled in September 2024

• Swimming with Turtles in Gili Islands
• Snorkeling with Manta Rays on Nusa - Lembongan
• Monkey Forrest, Ubud

“This trip covered three diverse countries and gave us a real insight into culture: the food, lifestyle, religion and the people.” Frank Eden, traveled in May 2023

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year
• Discover the ancient My Son Sanctuary and Thu Bon river
• Experience the vibrant Damnoen Saduak floating market
• Join a traditional Khantoke dinner in Chiang Mai

“Their passion for their respective countries and deep knowledge of the history and culture added an incredible layer of understanding to our travels.” Garrett Flores, traveled in February 2022

• Explore Bangkok by boat, tuk tuk, and canoe
• Discover Sukhothai's ancient ruins and temples
• Take a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai

“We have seen some truly spectacular scenery and I have made memories that will stay with me forever.” Cameron, traveled in May 2023

• Explore the highlights of the 4 countries
• Stay at a responsible elephant sanctuary in Chengdu
• Ankor Wat Sunrise Tour

“All the flights, connections and tours were on time and clear. The guides were great and we never had more than 8 people in any of our groups.” Irene Young, traveled in January 2024

• Spend the night on a luxurious cruise through Halong Bay
• Crawl through the historic Cu Chi tunnels and learn of it's rich past
• Snorkel and discover a magical underwater world at Phi Phi Island

“Overall I thought the tour was well organized and a great value. Highly recommend!” Heather Westfall, traveled in March 2024

• Visit the majestic Angkor Wat temple
• Explore the ancient Tran Quoc Pagoda
• Discover Hoi An's historic charms

“The trip itself was very good and very fast pace however saw and did a lot of things.” Herbie Adams, traveled in May 2019

• Savor local flavors on a Siem Reap food crawl
• Meet your group in vibrant Bangkok
• Explore the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat

“Great itinerary with very good efficient service.” William Banks, traveled in January 2020

• Explore Siem Reap and catch sunrise over Angkor Wat
• Discover the grottos and caves of exquisite Halong Bay
• Taste delicious dishes on a foodie tour through Hoi An

“I specifically chose this tour as it covered a lot of the key places including Chiang Mai and Pai in the North which actually turned out to be my two favourite places!” Aaru, traveled in October 2022

• Relax and sip coconuts on the white sands of Railay Beach
• Stay overnight on floating bungalows in Khao Sok
• Learn the art of Muay Thai on a beginner class in Pai

“We've been on several G trips, this itinerary and daily schedule kept us busy and always interested.” Steve Tilton, traveled in January 2024

• Experience a traditional homestay in Vang Vieng
• Explore Bangkok's vibrant canals by boat
• Discover the Ethnology Museum and Kuang Si Falls

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Southeast Asia Tours & Vacations

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Southeast Asia contains a wealth of cultural and historical depth unparalleled across the world. Home to ancient empires, lush jungles, immaculate seas, and thriving cities, this region of plenty offers a tantalizing experience waiting to be uncovered. Discover Southeast Asia’s most remarkable secrets with a custom itinerary designed alongside Zicasso’s travel experts.

Top Southeast Asia Destinations

Life-enriching travel designed just for you.

Trips curated by the world’s top destination experts

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Amazing Southeast Asia Tour: Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos

20  Day Custom Tour

From  $5,900

Romantic Southeast Asia Island Hopping Itinerary

7  Day Custom Tour

From  $2,600

Wonders of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia Tour for Families

12  Day Custom Tour

From  $3,600

Laos Sonata: A Highlights Tour of Laos

9  Day Custom Tour

From  $2,700

Imperial Southeast Asia Tour of Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand

From  $3,800

Thailand Adventure and Culture Tour & Island Retreat

10  Day Custom Tour

Why Travelers Choose Us

Benefits of Using Zicasso

Magic & Mystery Tour of North Thailand

Tour of Cambodia & Vietnam: Nature, Culture & Wonders

14  Day Custom Tour

From  $4,200

Best of Mekong Delta Vietnam Tour: Can Tho, Tam Nong, Chau Doc & More

From  $2,100

City & Nature Tour of Thailand: Bangkok’s Floating Markets, Royal Palace, Khao Yai & Kanchanaburi

From  $4,300

Romantic Getaway to Cambodia & Laos: Angkor Wat, Mekong Delta & More

Thailand and Cambodia Tour: Ruins of Angkor & Ayutthaya to Beauties of Chiang Mai & Wildlife

13  Day Custom Tour

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Travel Tips for Your Southeast Asia Trip

What countries are in southeast asia.

Southeast Asia is a diverse region made up of 11 countries, each with its own unique culture, landscapes, and attractions. Southeast Asia includes Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar (Burma), Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Timor-Leste, and Brunei.

Explore our Southeast Asia tour packages in the following top destinations:

• Bali, Indonesia

When is the best time to visit Southeast Asia?

Typically, the cooler dry season from November to February in most Southeast Asian countries is an ideal time to visit. When planning a trip, consider that the best time to travel varies across the diverse region and from one country to the next. The ideal time for your trip depends on the countries you plan to explore and your preferences for weather and crowds.

For most of the region, the months between November and February offer minimal rainfall, and the temperatures are comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Though offering excellent weather conditions, this is also peak tourist season so the beaches, temples, and major cities are more crowded.

To avoid the crowds, consider planning a trip between March and May as the weather remains warm and dry before the summer monsoon season arrives. For beach destinations like Thailand or Bali, these months are also great options for snorkeling and water sports as the seas are calmer.

While the best time to visit Southeast Asia for most is during the dry winter months, with strategic planning around your interests and preferences, any time of year can be ideal for exploring the diverse region and its popular destinations.

Where should I visit in Southeast Asia?

With its mix of cultures, landscapes, and attractions, deciding where to visit in Southeast Asia can be challenging. Every country has its own stunning destinations, but some of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia include:

• Bangkok , Thailand: Thailand’s capital blends ancient temples, vibrant street life, and a cosmopolitan charm. It is a gateway to the country’s history and culture, whether in and around the Old Town or taking a day trip to Ayutthaya.
• Hanoi, Vietnam: Vietnam’s capital offers a mix of French colonial architecture, narrow alleyways hiding authentic food stalls, and a charming Old Quarter. Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and learn about the country’s dramatic history.
• Bali, Indonesia: Known for its lush jungles, terraced rice paddies, and spectacular beaches, Bali in Indonesia is a tropical paradise. You can snorkel to see marine life, discover ancient spiritual artifacts, and tour the breathtaking rice terraces.
• Angkor Wat, Cambodia: Siem Reap serves as the gateway to the magnificent ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat, a Khmer architectural masterpiece recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What should I do in Southeast Asia?

From discovering ancient cultures to relaxing on private beaches, Southeast Asia tempts with an array of unforgettable experiences. You will be spoiled for choice on how to immerse yourself in your favorite destinations, and here are some of our top things to do in Southeast Asia :

• Explore ancient temples, from the protected ruins of Angkor Wat in Cambodia to the gold-embellished wats in Bangkok
• Relax on tropical beaches and enjoy water sports, whether on a private island or cruising around a famous archipelago
• Sample Southeast Asia’s top delicacies, feasting on fiery curries, herbal soups, and fresh seafood dishes
• Take a river cruise down the winding waterways of the Mekong, Irrawaddy, and more scenic rivers
• Trek through the jungles or walk along the rice terraces, hiking past waterfalls and seeing the exotic wildlife
• Take a cooking class to learn about and master the creation of iconic dishes like pad thai or Vietnamese pho
• Learn about Southeast Asia’s traditional crafts and artisanal practices, from pottery to textile weaving, wood carving, and more
• Shop the bustling markets, wandering between colorful street stalls in old trading quarters brimming with spices, silks, and souvenirs

What are the best beaches in Southeast Asia?

With thousands of miles of coastline and a collection of gorgeous islands in several top destinations, Southeast Asia is filled with stunning tropical beaches.

Some of the best beaches in Southeast Asia include:

• Railay Beach, Krabi, Thailand
• Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi, Thailand
• Kata Beach, Phuket, Thailand
• Tran Phu Beach, Nha Trang, Vietnam
• An Bang Beach, Hoi An, Vietnam
• Bai Sao Beach, Phu Quoc, Vietnam
• Long Beach, Koh Rong, Cambodia
• Ochheuteal Beach, Sihanoukville, Cambodia
• Kep Beach, Kep, Cambodia
• Seminyak Beach, Bali, Indonesia
• Padang Padang Beach, Bali, Indonesia

Is Southeast Asia safe to travel?

Southeast Asia is a safe region to travel to.

Many of the top destinations are known for their friendly and hospitable cultures and their sound tourist infrastructure. Though petty crime does exist, it rarely affects travelers that take into consideration basic precautions. Be aware of your belongings in crowded areas and keep your valuables secured.

When planning with a travel specialist, you can mitigate potential and rare travel risks. We also recommend being respectful of the local cultures and following your guide's general advice when traveling around Southeast Asia.

What are your most popular Southeast Asia itineraries?

Our most popular Southeast Asia itineraries are multi-country trips that showcase the best of our top destinations. From island-hopping adventures to cultural tours, here are some excellent featured trips that you can customize to your preferences:

• Our Amazing Southeast Asia Tour: Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos takes you to top locations in the region’s best destinations, from Siem Reap in Cambodia to Hanoi in Vietnam and Luang Prabang in Laos.
• Our Romantic Southeast Asia Island Hopping Itinerary is designed for couples or honeymooners who wish to explore and indulge in the luxuries of the breathtaking islands Koh Samui in Thailand, Koh Rong in Cambodia, and Phu Quoc in Vietnam.

Our Wonders of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia Tour for Families focuses on introducing you and your kids to the history, charm, and beauty of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia in Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hanoi, Luang Prabang, and Siem Reap.

What else should I know about how to plan a trip to Southeast Asia?

Explore more information and inspiration in our Southeast Asia travel guide .

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Southeast Asia Tours | 20+ Southeast Asia Travel Packages

Southeast Asia , a region of 11 countries in the southeastern part of Asia , offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. For first-time visitors, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos are particularly recommended.

Southeast Asia Must-visit Countries & Highlights:

How to Plan Your Southeast Asia Countries Tour?

Southeast Asia beckons! Immerse yourself in a whirlwind escape (2 weeks) or an in-depth discovery (1 month) - we craft tours to suit your pace. Explore two contrasting countries  or delve deeper into a trio of gems . Thailand's bustling markets and Vietnam's serene Ha Long Bay await, or perhaps Cambodia's ancient temples, Laos' tranquil countryside, and Vietnam's vibrant history entice you. The choice is yours - find your perfect itinerary here!

Our curated 20 Best Southeast Asia tours  ensure seamless travel between countries, eliminating logistical headaches. Experienced guides bring local insights to life, while comfortable transportation allows you to focus on creating memories. Go with Asia Odyssey Travel now!

"Excellent Tour, best experience"

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3 Best-selling Southeast Asia Tours

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Unleash Your Inner Explorer: Unforgettable Southeast Asia in 4 Countries ! Take an epic adventure spanning four Southeast Asian gems: Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos . Immerse yourself in the region's vibrant tapestry, from bustling cities to ancient temples and breathtaking natural beauty. With over 2 weeks, you can experience the highlights of each country! Explore Bangkok's glittering palaces and vibrant markets, marvel at the majestic Angkor Wat complex , cruise through the mystical limestone formations of Halong Bay , and soak in the charm of Luang Prabang, Laos. For an in-depth discovery, tailor your trip to last 3 weeks to one month.

Embark on an unforgettable Southeast Asia adventure! With limited time (within 2 weeks), start your journey in Thailand or Vietnam. Then, choose from a variety of enticing options to combine with your favorite country. Explore Vietnam and Thailand 's dynamic blend, delve into the wonders of Vietnam and Cambodia , or discover the hidden gems of Vietnam and Laos . For an extra dash of excitement, embark on a thrilling Thailand and Cambodia fusion. Choose your dream tour today!

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Date of Experience: Sep 14, 2023

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Southeast Asia Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 436 most popular southeast asia trips. compare tour itineraries from 126 tour companies. 1,771 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating., popular southeast asia tours.

Cycling Vietnam

• Take a cycling holiday through Vietnam’s most scenic landscapes
• Savour mouth-watering cuisine
• Crawl through the Cu Chi war tunnels
• Relax in charming Hoi An
• Cruise among the limestone formations of Ha Long Bay

Luxury Thailand Family Trip

• Tuk-tuk tour through every corner of Bangkok
• Explore Bangkok now and then
• View of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos hills, the Ruak and Mekong Rivers
• Diving in the Gulf of Thailand

Highlights of Vietnam

• Explore the underground rivers and caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
• Take a boat trip around the limestone peaks of Ha Long Bay
• Discover the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue
• Experience the historic trading town of Hoi An
• Visit the Vinh Moc war tunnels

Treasures of Vietnam

• Discover just why Halong Bay is so popular as you spend the night on a boat among the evocative karst landscape and indulge in a feast of fresh seafood.
• Visit the best must see sights in Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi with your expert leader, and enjoy free time to make your own discoveries.
• Relax in peaceful rural surroundings while your private chef prepares a delicious spread that celebrates his Hoi An garden's seasonal best.
• Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a former Viet Cong stronghold that provides an insight into the resourcefulness and tenacity of the Vietnamese people and underground life during the war.
• Sample local food wherever you go, from street snacks at markets to an included lunch that supports locals at KOTO restaurant.

Bangkok to Bali Adventure: Street Eats & Beaches

• Eat your way through a street food crawl in bangkok
• Explore khao sok national park
• Connect with locals during a scenic homestay
• Time to see singapore your way
• Trek along the ancestor trail to mt bromo

Thailand – The Baby Elephant Experience

• Explore the rich culture of the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai
• Volunteer with rescued elephants at the Thai Elephant Nursery
• Live the life of a mahout as you walk, bathe and feed the elephants
• Explore Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a magnificent Buddhist temple and monastery dating back to the 1300s

Family Fun In Cambodia

• A private street food tour by local aficionados
• Mekong Island bicycle tour
• An eye-catching performance of Phare circus
• Learn the bamboo train ride
• Angkor temple exploration by tuk-tuk

Borneo Wildlife Discoverer

• Spot orangutans and proboscis monkeys
• Visit Mulu National Park, home to the impressive Deer Cave bat exodus
• Enjoy a river cruise in Kinabatangan
• Stay at a luxury jungle lodge in Danum Valley

All Southeast Asia , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Southeast Asia

Small Group Southeast Asia Tours

Cambodia Express

• Begin in Bangkok and finish in Ho Chi Minh City – with plenty of opportunities to further explore these Southeast Asian hotspots, maybe add an extra couple of days to enhance your adventure and indulge in more Thai massage and Vietnamese coffees.
• Let a local expert bring Cambodia’s ancient history to life as you temple-hop at the Angkor complex with your small group – one of South East Asia's most stunning attractions.
• Take a boat tour through the floating village of Tonle Sap Lake – the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia – and learn about the locals’ unique lifestyle of living on the water.
• Learn the confronting yet important history of Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek in Phnom Penh with a full-day experience.
• Enjoy a trip that’s packed full of experiences, giving you a great insight into Cambodia, all in a short time – perfect for the traveller passing through or those with limited availability.

Journeys: Discover Southeast Asia

• Enjoy a traditional khantoke dinner in a rural village
• Enjoy a visit and talk with a monk at an historic chiang mai temple
• Have lunch at a training restaurant for disadvantaged youth
• Witness an outstanding performance at phare (the cambodian circus)
• Take thrilling cyclo rides for a different perspective in bustling cities

Best Southeast Asia Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

Best Southeast Asia Tours by Price

Top Southeast Asia Attractions

• Touring the ruins of Cambodia’s stunning Angkor Wat , the largest religious complex ever built.
• Taking an Irrawaddy River cruise through Burma, sailing by a wealth of Buddhist temples, monasteries, and exotic villages.
• Visiting the extraordinarily ornate Royal Palace in Bangkok, Thailand .
• Getting to know one of Southeast Asia’s new hot spots, Laos’ beautiful town of Luang Prabang.
• Discovering the fascinating tribal cultures of Chiang Mai in northern Thailand.
• Exploring East Malaysia on the island of Borneo, where traditional customs and architecture live on.
• Experiencing the “new Asia” in the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur, with its twin high-rise Petronas Towers.
• Joining a wildlife safari in Indonesia to view komodo dragons.
• Relaxing on a cruise around Vietnam’s gorgeous island-dotted Halong Bay.
• Dining at one of Singapore’s famous outdoor noodle stands, serving up some of the finest Chinese cuisine in the world.
• Kicking back on the tropical island of Palawan in the Philippines.

Southeast Asia Tours & Travel

Southeast Asia Attractions & Landmarks Guide

Southeast Asia – comprised of nine major nations and two smaller ones that lie south of China and north of Australia -- is one of the world’s greatest travel destinations. An exotic blend of cultures, religions, art, architecture, history, cuisines and landscapes, Southeast Asia never fails to fascinate, and is deserving of multiple trips to discover its wide array of attractions and people.

There’s a good reason why a visit to Southeast Asia is on the top of many travelers’ bucket lists. When you travel  to Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Burma, Malaysia and other countries in the region, you’re guaranteed to have experiences and witness sights that you will never forget:

• A young Vietnamese woman dressed in a white silk tunic cycling past lush green rice paddies through a morning mist.
• A stream of Burmese Buddhist monks garbed in saffron robes walking to riverside temples to pray.
• Thai children swimming in the klongs (canals) of Bangkok, as myriad longboats speed past them.
• Outdoor noodle stand operators (“hawkers”) firing up their woks in Singapore, while their aromas permeate the air.
• A string of open-air longhouses standing on stilts in East Malaysia on the exotic island of Borneo.
• Thick tropical jungles teeming with rare birds, plants, and animals.

And so much more that it can be overwhelming deciding where to go first – or next.

Here are some highlights of each country to keep in mind when making your decision:

Touring Thailand

Thailand is the most visited Southeast Asian country, and the one with the best tourist infrastructure. It also has some of the best food in the world – whether it’s a noodle dish from an outdoor stand or a seafood feast served at an upscale restaurant. Bangkok’s traffic and heat can be unnerving, but the fabulous Royal Palace, colorful wats, busy canals and floating markets make up for it and more. Cool off in mountainous northern Chiang Mai, relive some history at the Bridge on the River Kwai on the Burmese border, or experience the beaches and islands of southern Thailand. The Thai people are known for their smiles and hospitality.

Touring Vietnam

While war museums and underground guerilla tunnels are still on most tour itineraries, Vietnam is long removed from the traumas of the 1960s-era Vietnam War. The vast majority of Vietnamese were not alive then, and Americans are warmly welcomed. Busy Saigon is a must stop, but more peaceful Hanoi is more reflective of the traditional culture. Halong Bay – with its wealth of islands and grottoes viewed from cruise ships -- is the top scenic wonder in the country, while the Mekong River is popular for river cruises. Vietnamese food is also exceptional.

Touring Burma (Myanmar)

Burma has been dubbed a “Buddhist wonderland” because of its thousands of temples and throngs of Buddhist monks. Mostly cut off from the world until the last few years, Burma hasn’t changed much for decades, though change will come – a good argument for seeing it now. The best viewing may be via a river cruise on the Irrawaddy, which flows through the country. The cruises typically include time in Yangon (Rangoon) and Mandalay as well as providing unforgettable views of the countryside and a mix of Buddhist and British colonial architecture.

Touring Cambodia

Devastated by the wars of the 1960s and ‘70s and by the subsequent “Killing Fields” rule of the maniacal dictator Pol Pot, Cambodia has rebounded into one of the upcoming tourist destinations in the region. The prime attraction is Angkor Wat, the ruins of the 12 th century “City of Temples” built during the Khmer Empire and the largest religious complex ever built. It lies in the jungles near the city of Siam Reap and can be reached via Mekong River cruises that often start or end in Vietnam.

Touring Laos

Another country that suffered from the effects of the Vietnam War, Laos is now coming into its own as a tourist destination. Its capital, Vientiane, is a city of Buddhist temples and of leafy boulevards laid out in the French style (like much of Indochina, Laos is a former French colony). Another jewel now being discovered is the ancient city of Luang Prabang, which occupies a highly scenic spot along the Mekong valley in northern Laos; it’s also known for its wealth of Buddhist temples, French ambiance and variety of outdoor activities.

Touring Indonesia

Southeast Asia’s most populous country stretches across a vast sea of islands large and small. It includes crowded Java, parts of Borneo and New Guinea, Komodo Island (home of the famous Komodo dragons), and tourist haven Bali, known for its beaches, arts scenes, rice paddies, and as the only Hindu-majority island in this predominantly Muslim nation. With as many as 17,000 islands in all – many uninhabited – Indonesia merits multiple visits, each of which may prove very different from the rest.

Touring Malaysia & Singapore

Malaysia is another majority Muslim country that also has a strong Buddhist population, many of them ethnic Chinese. The country is divided into two main sections: Peninsular (mainland) Malaysia and East Malaysia, which occupies part of the island of Borneo. Highlights of the former include the spice island of Penang, known for its cuisine; Malacca, which shows heavy Dutch influence from centuries ago; and the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, home to some of the tallest buildings in the world, a trove of restaurants, and classy hotels.

The east coast of mainland Malaysia is known for its sea turtles, beaches, and offshore islands. East Malaysia is the site of Mt. Kinabalu, Borneo’s highest peak (which can be climbed) and exotic plant, animal, and human life. Singapore, an island nation situated at the tip of the Malay Peninsula, has gone modern in a big way, but is known for its superb Chinese cuisine and attractively designed parks and urban spaces.

Touring The Philippines

Like Indonesia, the Philippines is a nation of thousands of islands. Located in the western Pacific off the eastern coast of continental Asia, the Philippines were once under U.S. and Spanish control, and many residents speak English and Spanish as well as the native Tagalog. The country is a jumble of ethnicities and religions.

Manila, the capital, is traffic choked but a must-stop for its colonial-era center along the waterfront, its atmospheric Chinatown, and the historic island of Corregidor in Manila Bay, where U.S. troops battled the Japanese in World War II. The outer islands offer a varied mix of tropical beaches and traditional culture.

Trip Reviews

Vietnam cycling enthusiast.

This was my first trip to Vietnam and cycling the country was an amazing experience. Traveling with our local guide Son, a terrific leader who managed 16 cyclist...

Fantastic trip to Vietnam

Excellent trip Cycling on the small roads and of the beaten path Fantastic could not have done a better job. Expect the unexpected. Just enjoy the journey Trai...

What a Fantastic Experience

I signed up for this on a whim, having done the standard Exodus Vietnam trip 5 years ago. I thoroughly enjoyed that trip but saw no reason to return. This trip cau...

Cycling Vietnam was an amazing and fun trip from start to finish. Beautiful scenery and varied landscapes with a good mix of urban and rural cycling. Delicious ...

Very well organise and planned. Our group was friendly and supportive

Enjoyed every day. Great group. Stepping out of my comfort zone in a supported environment. Very good. Worked well with group. Very organised . Take part in the ...

See all Southeast Asia reviews

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