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South East Asia travel route: Explore top destinations for your holiday
Are you thinking about a holiday in South East Asia? Get ready for bustling cities, pristine beaches, delicious food and endless adventures. This incredible region sits between the Indian and Pacific Oceans and is home to some of the world's most diverse landscapes and cultures. The region is made up of 11 countries, each with its own charm. You can explore Thailand's vibrant markets and paradise islands or wander through Vietnam's ancient towns. If you want a laid-back island holiday, Bali and the Philippines offer a fun getaway.
From the chaos of Bangkok to the peaceful rice fields of Laos, every country in South East Asia offers something unforgettable.
South East Asia at a glance
Flight duration (from London): 13 to 16 hours
Countries: 11 (Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, Brunei, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Myanmar, the Philippines, Cambodia, Singapore and Malaysia)
Population: 698.5 million
Languages: Indonesian, Vietnamese, Thai and English
Time zones: UTC +06:30 (Myanmar), UTC+07:00 (Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Western Indonesia), UTC+08:00 (Central Indonesia, Brunei, Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore) and UTC +09:00 (Eastern Indonesia)
Top destinations to visit in South East Asia
If adventure, stunning beaches and rich culture are on your holiday wishlist, South East Asia has it all. This region is packed with bucket-list destinations, including:
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is where chaos meets charm. From the glittering Grand Palace to the bustling street markets, this city is a sensory overload in the best way. Take a cruise along the Chao Phraya River and explore the floating markets. Don't miss out on street food like pad Thai and mango sticky rice. By night, sip cocktails at a rooftop bar or dive into the city's legendary nightlife.
Bali, Indonesia
If you're looking for beaches, yoga retreats and breathtaking landscapes, Bali is pure magic. Surf at Canggu, chase waterfalls in Ubud and watch the sunset at Uluwatu Temple. Whether you're into adventure or just chilling in a beachfront villa, Bali is a tropical escape.
Halong Bay, Vietnam
Cruise through a bay filled with limestone karsts, emerald waters and floating fishing villages in Vietnam. Explore Halong Bay on a boat cruise, where you can kayak, swim or just kick back with a drink in hand.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Home to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is a dream for history lovers and adventurers alike. Wake up early to catch the sunrise over the ancient temples, then explore the mystical ruins of Ta Prohm (where Tomb Raider was filmed). After a day of exploring, hit Pub Street for cheap drinks and live music.
When is the best time to visit South East Asia?
Since this amazing region spans multiple countries, the weather varies, and you should plan your holidays around the local weather. The dry season is the best time to visit South East Asia. From November to April, countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and the Philippines enjoy warm temperatures, low humidity and minimal rain. This is the best time for island hopping and exploring temples without getting drenched in a tropical downpour. January and February are ideal months for beach weather in Thailand, stunning sunsets in Bali and hiking trips in Northern Vietnam.
The green season is also the wet season. However, afternoon rain showers usually pass quickly, leaving behind lush, vibrant landscapes. Plus, it's cheaper, with fewer tourists. If you're visiting Bali, Thailand's Gulf Coast (Koh Samui) or Malaysia, this season is actually a great time to visit.
Fun things to do on family holidays in South East Asia
Are you planning a family holiday in Southeast Asia? Get ready for adventure, culture and unforgettable experiences. Here are some fun things to do with the family:
Go on a wildlife safari
Take your kids on a real-life jungle adventure. In places like Borneo, Thailand and Malaysia, you can spot orangutans, elephants and even tigers in the wild. Visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Borneo or take a river cruise in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand, where you might see monkeys swinging through the trees.
Try an island-hopping adventure
South East Asia is popular for its tropical islands, and island-hopping is the best way to explore them. Jump on a boat in Thailand's Phi Phi Islands, Palawan in the Philippines or Langkawi in Malaysia and discover the many hidden lagoons.
Try an island-hopping adventure
South East Asia is popular for its tropical islands, and island-hopping is the best way to explore them. Jump on a boat in Thailand's Phi Phi Islands, Palawan in the Philippines or Langkawi in Malaysia and discover the many hidden lagoons.
Take a fun cooking class
Become a master chef with a hands-on cooking class. Learn to make pad Thai in Thailand, fresh spring rolls in Vietnam or traditional satay in Bali. Most classes are super interactive, and kids will love getting their hands messy while learning about local flavours.
Have a water park or beach day
From Splash Jungle in Phuket to Adventure Cove in Singapore, water parks in South East Asia are next-level fun. If you prefer nature, spend the day on the beach, building sandcastles and trying out kayaking or paddle boarding.
FAQs about South East Asia holidays
Q: What is the cheapest country in South East Asia?
A: Vietnam is often considered the cheapest country in South East Asia for tourists. You can enjoy delicious street food for under £2 and budget-friendly guesthouses for £5 to £10 per night. You can explore the streets of Hanoi, relax in Hoi An or cruise Halong Bay on a low budget without breaking the bank.
Q: Is £1,000 a month enough for South East Asia?
A: Yes. £1,000 a month is more than enough to travel comfortably (not luxuriously) in most of South East Asia, especially in countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand (outside major cities). You can afford budget accommodation, daily street food feasts and even some fun activities, like island hopping or trekking.
Q: What is the cheapest time of year to travel to South East Asia?
A: The cheapest time to visit South East Asia is during the wet season (May to October). Flights, accommodation and tours are often 30-50% cheaper, and popular attractions are far less crowded. You might get some rain, but it usually comes in short, heavy bursts, leaving plenty of time to explore.
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