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26 BEST Places to Visit in Asia in July & August!

Categories Asia , Summer Travel

I love Asia and I’m always looking for different places to visit Asia and the best time to go to Asia! Along with my travel blogger friends I have put together this list of the best places to visit in Asia in July and best places to visit in Asia in August to help you plan your summer holidays!

July and August bring the Summer holidays for people in the Northern Hemisphere and whether you’re looking to go on a family holiday during the Summer holidays, you’re studying and only have the Summer off, or you want to get away from the heat and crowds in popular European holiday destinations , you may want to spend the Summer in Asia.

However,  July and August generally bring the rain and monsoon season to many parts of Asia and if you’re like me this isn’t what you want from a trip!

A few years ago, I was personally wondering where to travel to in Asia in August so I reached out to my travel blogging friends to get their thoughts, opinions and experiences from travelling Asia in the Summer months and below are all the recommendations I received back on the best places to visit in July in Asia and the best places to visit in August in Asia !

Best Place to Visit in July and August in Asia

Indonesia is a clear winner as the best place to travel in July and August due to the weather!

A lot of the Indonesian islands will have blue skies and less rainy days making it the perfect country for a Summer holiday destination.

For example, I was in Gilli Trawangan during Christmas and although it was hot, December is the start of the rainy season so we had awful rain on Christmas Day! Whereas May, June, July, August and September practically offer no rain.

Weather in Asia in August and July

In this list of where to go in Asia in July and August, I have recommendations for places in South East Asia , East Asia ,  Central Asia and the Sub Continent showing that if you have a bit of flexibility you can visit some real gems during July and August in Asia.

Generally, I have tried to pick places where the weather is comfortable so although it may, and most like will be, very hot , it won’t be really humid which is awful weather to travel in!

Also, some countries change depending on where you are , for example, Pakistan in July and August varies a lot. In Lahore and Islamabad where you’d fly into, it’s soo unbearably hot but once you fly to the mountains of Northern Pakistan, it’s beautiful weather!

I’ve also tried to pick places out of the rainy season as generally the rainy season in Asia comes to most countries in July and August which is why it can be so hard to plan a summer holiday in Asia!

You really can’t do a 2 week India trip visiting the likes of Delhi, Rajasthan and the Taj Mahal in July or August, unfortunately!

However, sometimes the heat and a bit of rain aren’t that bad and can really benefit your trip because in the low season, you’ll avoid the crowds and get better prices by visiting these destinations in the Asian Summer months!

I ended up deciding on Sri Lanka in August so let’s see where you’ll book!

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-Gili Islands

Best in: July

The Gili Islands in Indonesia are idyllic year-round but for the best weather on the Gili Islands, I would recommend visiting in July as I did. The days are warm and sunny and perfect for relaxing on the beach or snorkelling. 

The peak season runs between June and August and during these months, you can be almost guaranteed sunny dry weather. 

There are 3 islands to choose from and I would recommend Gili Air, particularly if you are visiting in July. Gili Air is much quieter than Gili Trawangan which is busy throughout the year but especially so in peak season. Gili Air, by contrast, has just a scattering of hotels and beach bars so even if all the hotels are fully booked, it won’t feel crowded. I would, however, recommend booking well in advance.  

Gili Meno is also an option but in my opinion, it is a little too quiet with only 1 or 2 restaurants. It does, however, make the perfect place to escape to for the day and you can catch boats between the islands. 

Gili Meno is probably the most beautiful but perhaps a little boring if you plan to stay more than a day or two. Gili Air, in my opinion, has the perfect blend of quiet beaches with the option of finding a lively bar if you want a few cocktails. 

Spend your days sunbathing, snorkelling, cycling around the island, enjoying good food and maybe treat yourself to a massage or try some yoga. The Gili Islands are one of the best places to visit in July and I would recommend allocating at least 4 or 5 days in your Indonesia itinerary to visit.

Suggested by: Leanne from The GlobeTrotter GP.

My Related Posts: 30 things to do in Gili T / 3 Day Gili Islands Itinerary / Where to stay in Gili T!

VIEW ALL MY INDONESIA POSTS HERE

Best in: July & August

Visiting Bali during July and August is a great choice as the weather is fantastic. The weather is warm and there is less of a chance that it will rain. It is the high season but not peak season like Christmas time when the prices are very high and the weather not so great.

August is a great time to enjoy Bali due to all the wonderful festivals that take place. Buleleng Festival, Bali International Kite Festival, Ubud Village Jazz Festival and Sanur Village Festival are just a few of the events on offer. The festivals in Bali are a great way to experience the local Balinese culture and cuisine.

During August it is the school term in Australia so you will experience less Australian holidaymakers with their kids. It is of course summer holidays for the Northern Hemisphere families but with longer distances to travel to Bali you don’t really notice as many kids. Exploring Bali during July and August when the weather is sunny and not too humid will help you to experience all the amazing things Bali has to offer.

Suggested by: Kate from Rolling Along With Kids .

Book yourself a private guide aka diver and plan your full day yourself via viator!

My related Post:  The BEST 2 Week Itinerary | Bali, Gili Islands and Lombok!

-Sumba Island

It doesn’t get more remote than Sumba Island in Indonesia! This gorgeous island boasts a rugged coast that’s lined with palm trees and is unspoiled by development.

July and August are the best times to visit Sumba Island as there’s no rain nor wind and you can enjoy long sunny days on the beach. These months also bring with them the best swell if you’re looking to surf in uncrowded waters.

Sumba Island is a short flight from Bali and whilst it doesn’t have the high influx of tourists as other Indonesian islands, people are quickly discovering the beauty that lies within Sumba. It’s an adventure lovers’ dream destination with towering waterfalls, picturesque lakes, hidden caves and an abundance of traditional villages. All of this coupled with the unique culture and rich history make Sumba Island an ideal destination if you’re looking to visit Asia in July or August. There isn’t much tourist information online so be sure to check out this travel guide to Sumba before your visit. 

Suggested by: Carryn from Torn Tackies.

-Komodo, Flores

Best in: August

Usually visited from Bali or Lombok by boat (although you can also catch a domestic flight from Denpasar airport to Labuan Bajo, Ende or Maumere), Flores and Komodo are one of those destinations in Indonesia that are on the list of any traveller who it boasts.

Although both July and August are good times to visit the Komodo Islands perhaps August is somewhat better if we take the weather into consideration. That said, before going make sure that these islands are open for tourism when you plan to go. The country’s government – like many others in Southeast Asia – has already begun to take action against mass tourism and the degradation of some of its islands; closing them briefly for cleaning and regeneration.

Once there, the possibilities of things to do in Komodo are many. From visiting the Komodo national park and approaching the mighty Komodo dragons with a park guide, to explore some of the other islands in the area such as the beautiful Pulau Padar (pictured here), Rinca island, and pink beach – which is way less pink than the saturated Instagram images show.

Suggested by:  Imma from A World to Travel.

– Munduk

The small Balinese village of Munduk is an amazing destination in Indonesia for lovers of the outdoors. It’s a peaceful escape from some of Bali’s busier destinations, such as Ubud and Kuta, making it a wonderful addition to any  Bali itinerary .

July and August are some of the busiest months in Bali, making it a great time to visit Munduk to get away from the crowds. On top of that, July and August are some of the least rainy months in the village, which means your stay is unlikely to be hampered by bad weather. 

The most popular thing to do in Munduk is to go trekking through the beautiful nature. Undeniably the best hike to do is the Munduk Waterfall trek, which starts from the village and visits 3 nearby waterfalls over the course of a few hours. Other treks are possible too, whether it’s through rice fields or to other smaller waterfalls.

Another great reason to visit Munduk is that it is ideally located to take day trips to attractions in the north of the island.  Some of the best spots to visit include Sekumpul waterfall, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple and Banyumala twin waterfall.

As so many of the activities to enjoy in the area involve being outdoors, July and August are perfect months for visiting Munduk!

Suggested by: Sam & Natalia from Something of Freedom.

– Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is an interesting destination, known for its temples and food culture. If you visit in July, you’ll experience the “winter” of Yogyakarta, even though it’s still hot and humid with temperatures of 30°C (86°F) in the daytime.

While some rain is expected year-round in Yogyakarta, July and August are the driest months of the year, which makes it excellent for sightseeing as you won’t have your day ruined by downpours.

July is also in the low-season of visiting Yogyakarta as many international tourists are travelling around Europe at that time of the year, which means fewer crowds and lower prices for tours and accommodation.

As for choosing between July or August, it doesn’t really matter and both months are generally good for exploring Yogyakarta and getting the most out of your money and time. Thanks to fewer crowds and tourists, you’re more likely to get to interact with some locals as well.

Borobudur is perhaps the most famous tourist attraction near Yogyakarta, but a lesser-known place with stunning views is Kalibiru which is just a short car ride away

Suggested by: Alex from Swedish Nomad .

Here is the link to do some interesting things in Yogyakarta like guided tours to breathtaking places and watching sunrise

-Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands are on the East Coast of Malaysia not far from Thailand. In fact, the word ‘Perhentian’ means stopping because they were the stopping island for boats going between Malaysia and Bangkok. However, these islands are not on the usual South East Asia backpacker trail and are they unique in the fact that they are only open from March to October because this is when the weather is best.

They are made up of 2 islands- a big one (Perhentian Besar) and a small one (Perhentian Kecil). The small Perhentian Island has much more of a backpacker feel with lots of hut and bungalow accommodation whereas the big Perhentian Island is much more popular with families because it has more resorts to stay in and is more built up.

Visiting the Perhentian Islands in July and August is a great time to visit because the weather is the best in the Summer months offering you clear blue skies and hot temperatures. Due to this, this time of year is peak season on the Perhentian Islands so expect more people to visit and book your Perhentian Island accommodation in advance!

I recommend these islands if you want to chill on a beach, learn to dive, go snorkelling and relax in paradise for a few days! And if you’re looking for a cheap holiday in July or August.

Suggested by: Ellie from The Wandering Quinn.

My Related Posts:  Travellers Guide to the Small Perhentian Island of Paradise  / How Much It Costs to Visit the Perhentian Islands  

VIEW ALL MY MALAYSIA POSTS HERE!

How to get the best flights??

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different destinations and different dates for the best price and route!

For example, I type in ‘everywhere’ in the destination if I have fixed dates and want to find the best flights on those dates on Skyscanner .

And if I have a set destination I’ll look at the ‘month view’ to check the cheapest days to fly in that month!

Open Skyscanner by clicking here and search for the best flights as you read this post!

Kuching on the Borneo side of Malaysia makes an excellent base for a stay on this island.  You can visit the wildlife rehabilitation centre to see the Orangutans and take a tour to Bako National Park to admire the spectacular scenery and the Proboscis Monkeys. 

July and August is the best time of year to visit with Kuching although it will be busy with tourists because it’s peak season. For a quieter getaway to avoid the crowds head to Mulu in the north of Sarawak. Mulu is a Unesco World Heritage site, and the national park has some of the most magnificent caves in the world. The caves are stunningly beautiful, and the wooden walkways make them easily accessible. The stalactites and stalagmites glisten inside its genuinely spectacular.

The Mulu Marriott Hotel and Spa is the perfect place to relax, surrounded by the green oasis of the jungle. There’s also plenty of wildlife to spot here, especially if you take one of the night walks. The departure of the bats from the caves at dusk provides a spectacular display that’s also not to miss. 

Suggested by: Fiona from Passport and Piano.

Royal Belum State Park in Malaysia is the best place to visit in Asia in July and August. Firstly, Royal Belum State is located in the state of Perak and crosses into Southern Thailand meaning July is the coldest and driest month in Perak. 

Secondly, the state park is one of the oldest rainforests in the world. It’s the perfect place to see tropical plants and wildlife, including monkeys, elephants, wild boards, and cobras. Although chances are slim, you may get a glimpse of Malaysian tigers and the threatened gigantic Rafflesia! 

Thirdly, Royal Belum State Park is, in my opinion, one of the most underrated travel destinations in Asia. Unlike other National parks in Malaysia, it remains largely unknown to tourists. Not to worry though, there are a number of decent resorts nearby the state park to stay in and most resorts offer tour packages that include accommodation, breakfast and excursion. Some of the top activities in Royal Belum State Park are river cruises, trekking to waterfalls, visiting the local tribe, bamboo rafting and fishing.

Suggested by: Ming from Flyerism.

-Koh Samui Archipelago

While it is the rainy season throughout a lot of Thailand during July, there is a slice of paradise off the East Coast where you can enjoy sunny days in July. This is the Koh Samui Archipelago and it consists of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.

July is heading towards the dry season around these islands, therefore, I definitely recommend a visit in July rather than August. By travelling to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao in July, you will also be missing the main busy season in Thailand from November- February. That means you can still get wonderfully sunny days as well as cheaper accommodation prices.

There are plenty of things to do on these islands such as the ever-popular Full Moon party held each month in Koh Phangan. This massive event is super popular with backpackers in Thailand. I am not so much of a partier so instead, I hired a scooter to find the top beaches in Koh Phangan . Though, if you love discovering life underwater Koh Tao provides plenty of opportunities for snorkelling, diving and free diving.

Either way, the gorgeous Koh Samui Archipelago in Thailand has some impressive islands with plenty of things to keep you busy. So, if you are looking for where to go on holiday in July and looking for a cheap holiday destination in July, I highly recommend either Koh Tao, Koh Phangan or Koh Samui.

Suggested by: Tasha Amy from Backpackers Wanderlust.

My Related Posts:  Female Packing List For Thailand | What To Pack and Not Pack  /  How to Visit Koh Samui on a Budget /  2 Week Thailand Itinerary to see the North & the South Islands!  

VIEW ALL MY THAILAND POSTS HERE!

– Sapa

The summer months are the perfect time to visit Sapa in Northern Vietnam. Sapa’s elevation high up in the Hoàng Liên Son Mountain Range keeps it nice and cool during summer months, which is rare in Southeast Asia. Due to its unique climate and location, this region only gets one rice crop per year and the terraces are bright green and full of life in July & August. The extensive rice terraces that cover the tall hills and mountains are a photographer’s dream! 

Hikers too will love walking through the lush paddies, however, you should bring some gear that can withstand a few raindrops. Even though the temperatures are pleasant it does rain more than the winter months. One of the best ways to experience Sapa, Vietnam is to hike to and sleep in a local village in a homestay with a Hmong family to get a glimpse into local life here. A trip here in the summer is one you won’t soon forget. 

Suggested by: Adam & Hannah from Getting Stamped.

-Vientiane 

While Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, in general, is a laidback city, without the chaos of the other Southeast Asian Cities. In July and August, the crowds are much less on the streets of Vientiane than in the high seasons of October to April. July and August make for the best time to visit Vientiane.

The tourist attractions are not overcrowded, the streets are mellow, and the weather isn’t that bad during these months with low season bring a little more rainfall and the rise of humidity. Therefore, if you want to go to a major city in Asia without chaos, no significant high-rise buildings and plenty of cultural attractions to visit. Surely that’s reason enough to put Vientiane on the list when organising your holidays in Asia during the Summer. 

In addition to Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng are also good places to visit in Laos in the Summer months of July & August.

Suggested by: Anthony from Fair Dinkum Traveller .

Singapore in July and August is the time just before the rain starts to fall hard, but it’s also a time of joyous celebration. The first major party that you should know about is National Day, annually falling on August 9. It is a day of national pride as it commemorates Singapore’s independence from Malaysia, which they received in 1965. There is a wonderful parade (NDP), an address by the Prime Minister of Singapore. But the reason you’d want to visit is the fireworks celebrations. The year 2019 is particularly important as it is the bicentennial. The entire city-state will be lit up with the most miraculous displays of light and pyrotechnics. And the best part… it’s free to view.

If you’re a shopaholic, the months between June and July is the annual Great Singapore Sale. This is a 5 week extravaganza when the entire country slashes their prices to up to 70% off. The best place to go during the sale, Orchard Road of course. This street is lined with massive malls that get super packed on weekends. So go during the week if you can. You can also visit the less flash shops in Chinatown, Kampong Glam, Little India, particularly Haji Lane for boutique stores.

Suggested by: Callan from Once in a Lifetime Journey.

-Northern Areas

If you want some Mountain adventures in July and August you need to consider Pakistan! Pakistan in July and August is the perfect time to head to the Northern Mountains in Pakistan because the sun will be out, flowers will be in bloom and the mountains are open for you to hike and explore.

I’d recommend Skardu and Hunza as the best places to visit in Pakistan to start with. There are so many places to visit in the Northern areas of Pakistan and although I do recommend following an itinerary similar to this 2 week Pakistan itinerary , I do also recommend keeping your plans flexible and free as the more you see in Pakistan, the more you want to see!

The Southern areas of Pakistan including Islamabad will be hot in July and August and probably a bit wet due to the monsoon season and this will only intensify as you go South, so fly into Islamabad and get up North in Pakistan asap and spend as long as you can seeing this incredible country that is only just waking up to tourism!

My Related Posts:  10 Things To Know BEFORE You Go to Pakistan  / 2 Week Itinerary for Pakistan | Best Places to Visit on Your First Trip!  

When planning your  backpacking Sri Lanka  adventure, you’ll quickly realize that there’s not just one optimal time to visit this small island, just off the coast of India. While other countries in Asia have a clear division of dry season and rainy season, there are different climate zones within Sri Lanka. If you’re ready for an island escape in Asia in July and August, make sure to focus your itinerary on the North as well as the East part of the country, since this is the best time to visit these regions of Sri Lanka.

That being said, during my travels around Sri Lanka in July 2018, I also visited the Southern coast to places such as Galle and Mirissa. Although it was very hot, I was pretty lucky and didn’t see any rain for a whole week! Further, I was also able to take full advantage of travelling the southern coast off-season – there were no tourist crowds and the streets of Galle were very quiet, especially compared to other touristic places that I visited in Sri Lanka.

My recommendation for the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in July and August? Focus on the East and North, but keep your days flexible and if the forecasts predicts sunshine and little rain for your time, make sure to include the Southern coast as well in your Sri Lanka itinerary!

Suggested by: Patrick from German Backpacker.

My Related Posts:  Visiting Sri Lanka in August | Weather in Sri Lanka  /  Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka on Your First Trip!

The Maldives is a good country to visit all year round meaning July and August are also great months to visit the Maldives. You can spend the morning watching the sun come up and listening to the ocean from the overwater villas and the temperatures hover over a balmy 80F year-round.

You are guaranteed a magical time in the Maldives anywhere you stay on any of the islands, the water is crystal clear, there is abundant marine life and the people are friendly.  With so many resorts it is hard to pick just one, but the water swing at Taj Exotica Resort and Spa sold us! The resort is located on the Emboodhu Finolhu Island which used to be called ‘Three Coconut Island’ is in the middle of one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives. Our family spent 5 days here and would love to go back to spend a week or two exploring the other islands that make up the Maldives.

We flew from Chennai to Male through Colombo on SriLankan Airlines. Taj Exotica is located not too far from the Malé airport and is just a 20-minute boat ride away, no need for any seaplanes to get here.

Suggested by: Priya from Outside Suburbia.

Most people choose to visit tropical destinations like Kerala, in South India, in the winter, when they want to escape cooler climates. But then there are more romantic souls, who opt to go in the monsoon season to experience that special magic the rains bring.

Kerala is a state in South India that is warm and tropical all year ‘round. It is blessed with gorgeous beaches, lush forests, a system of backwaters that are home to a unique culture, and a cooler, mountainous highland region that provides ideal conditions for a myriad of spice, tea, and coffee plantations.

There are many great places to visit in Kerala all year ‘round, but monsoon is a special time. The monsoon rains hit Kerala in early June, and continue for most of the summer months – June, July, and August.

I spent a week during monsoon at a resort in the Kerala backwaters once, and I loved the bountiful lushness, and the way the sky, lake, and canals all blended together like a giant watercolour painting. It’s very hard to describe the peaceful ambience, and how relaxed I felt in this atmosphere. Almost like being suspended between earth and water, calmed by a lullaby of pattering rain, and secure in the feeling that there was no need to go anywhere or do anything.

Suggested by: Mariellen from Breathe Dream Go.

VIEW ALL MY INDIA POSTS HERE!

– Matheran

Matheran (Meaning Forest on the Forehead) is the cutest hill station, located 90 km from Mumbai in the lap of the Sahyadris mountain ranges well away from the hustle-bustle of city life.  It gets heavy rainfall during the monsoon season ranging from May-August.

However, a good reason to visit Matheran in Monsoon season  is because of its natural landscape. One can encounter amazing waterfalls with a height ranging from 10 to 100 meter during July and August. Some very popular tourist points in Matheran include Echo Point, Alexander Louisa The point, Panorama Point, and Porcupine Point. To preserve the surroundings and environment, the hill station has been declared an ECO-ZONE which means no vehicles are allowed leaving an only way to roam around is wither walking or cycling or riding horses.

The town has no road, so it’s all rock and red soil with a natural terrain ideal for hiking and adventure seekers.  A traveller may get close to monkeys and various species of birds at any point of their trip.

It is a favourite destination among locals for a day trip or longer to get close with nature in peace. Every traveller, photographer and nature seeker should once experience this alluring place in the rainy season. 

Suggested by: Chandresh from Family on the Wheels.

Sikkim the state in North East India, looks heavenly in the Monsoon Season in July and August. It is a time when the mother nature wakes up from deep sleep and starts rejuvenating. The continuous rains make the landscapes look lush green and valleys get beautifully covered with clouds. The new fresh green leaves start budding, forests becomes dense, Lakes start roaring in full swing and birds make it a chirpy heaven. There is just a feeling of freshness and livelihood in the whole environment.  

Sikkim during the monsoon season is the offseason, and this is a good time to visit because there is not a high demand for accommodation and resources are dirt cheap.

The weather in Sikkim in July and August is extremely pleasant and temperatures range between 4 – 15 degree Celsius. In North Sikkim, you will feel that the mother nature has opened up its arm just for you. We recommend visiting this place in August as compared to July as the amount of rains decreases and so does the chance of encountering landslides. Check the complete itinerary of Darjeeling Sikkim Tour here.

Suggested by: Suruchi from All Gud Things.

Although the beginning of July in Japan is when the hot and humid summer starts, our five-days stay in Kyoto in July was very pleasant and enjoyable.

During our visit, Kyoto seemed a lazy and sleepy city and not as busy as we expected, in fact, there was almost no one visiting the famous bamboo forest at that time! Who knows, maybe we were just lucky. On several nights during our stay in Kyoto in July it rained quite intensively, but throughout the day we only had to use an umbrella twice. We also carried a small towel, as humid air made us sweat more than usual. Throughout the day the sky was quite cloudy, so our photos from Kyoto seem a bit hazy, but still, it was not a big issue for us.

When it was getting too hot and stuffy, to cool down we drank a lot of cold green tea, ate matcha flavoured ice creams, and rested in the shade of trees. Kyoto is definitely our favourite city in Japan, and we won’t hesitate to visit it in the summer again.

Suggested by: Marta and Milosz from Backpackers.wro .

My Related Posts:  How to take a Day Trip from Osaka to Kyoto | 1 Day Itinerary  /  2 Week Japan Itinerary for Your First Visit to Japan  /  How to Use a Japan Rail Pass – All You Need To Know!

VIEW ALL MY JAPAN POSTS HERE!

Tours in Kyoto to book to help you explore the amazing place with a guide:

– Tokyo

Tokyo is hardly a well-kept secret but there is a special reason to visit Tokyo in July and August: Fuji. 

This icon of Japan can be seen on a clear day from a few spots in the city, but during the summer months only, you can climb right the way to the top, passing through scarlet torii gates as you go. After that, the path is closed and you need to wait another year.  The climb itself doesn’t require technical skills but it does require good footwear and a decent level of fitness as you’ll be walking over uneven ground and climbing to 3776 metres.

You can climb Fuji in a day but the more popular way to climb Mount Fuji is to join the crowds and climb at night to see the sunrise from the mountain peak. 

So, what should you do for the rest of your time in Japan in July and August? You can easily fill an itinerary with five days in Tokyo before activating a Japan Rail Pass and travelling on to see more of the country. Summer in Japan allows you to linger in the gardens and enjoy the shade of the temples. A chance to refresh and recharge before heading back into the frenetic parts of Tokyo.

Suggest by: Abigail from Inside the Travel Lab.

-Penghu Islands

If Taiwan is Asia’s best-kept secret destination, Penghu is its paradise island only insiders know. While the mainland of Taiwan is suffering from heatwaves during the summer the Penghu islands become the perfect getaway destination from the city to cool off and relax by the crystal clear water.

Penghu is a group of 90 islands and islets in the west of Taiwan Strait. Naturally, the islands feature many gorgeous sandy beaches with emerald water. The best part is that they rarely get crowded, especially the ones off the uninhabited islands. You can relax by the uncrowded seaside or swim in the unpolluted water. Or, even go island-hopping on a boat.

While the island’s notorious wind makes a hostile living environment in winter, it becomes an ideal place to catch the waves for surfing and windsurfing enthusiasts in summer. Again, it’s only known to a small circle of insiders, which means you don’t need to fight for your spot. Penghu also has the world’s first submarine postbox you can dive or underwater helmet-walk to send a waterproof postcard. Deep-sea fishing is popular here too.

Does Penghu sound like your perfect summer getaway destination in Asia? Wait until you check out this list of uncrowded, stunning beaches in Taiwan and the best time to visit.  

Suggested by: Chloe from Chloe’s Travelogue.

My Related Posts:  16 Places to Visit in Taiwan | Tourist Spots  /  2 Week Taiwan Itinerary /  1 Week Taiwan Itinerary!

VIEW ALL MY TAIWAN POSTS HERE!

One of the best, and most forgotten about, places to visit in Asia during July and August is the Central Asian country of Kazakhstan.  The winter months are an extreme version of cold that many people have probably never felt anything like but the summer months are pleasantly hot and surprisingly tolerable.

The capital of Nur-Sultan is the second coldest capital city in the world during the winters but the summers are warm on the steppe and it gives Nur-Sultan a new life during July and August.  Autumn can come quickly and sometimes even in September, so it is best to get your fill of Kazakhstan during the summer.

Almaty, the country’s southeastern mega-city is cold in the winters and because it is surrounded by mountains, it can be rather inaccessible during the winter months. July and August are the perfect time to go to Almaty and to explore the city’s scenery, vibrant cafe scene, and must more.  Many people may flock to the beaches of southeast Asia or for a culinary adventure in India, but Kazakhstan is a great alternative as it has lakes, seas, deserts, canyons, and amazing food culture… without all the tourists.

Suggested by: Megan from Megan Starr.

If you mention the name Uzbekistan as a travel destination you can be guaranteed that most people will wonder why you would wish to visit there. It is, however, a very good Asian destination to visit during the summer due to its arid land, beautiful landscapes and minimal amounts of rain.

Travelling in Uzbekistan will take you across the former Silk Road and you can certainly visit the silk factories in Khiva and Bukhara. Equally impressive are the carpet making factories of Khiva and the elaborate embroidery, suzani, found in Bukhara and Samarkand which is difficult to resist buying! The walled city of Bukhara feels as though it is part of a film set with its vast towers and romanticism. It is truly stunning! Monuments such as the Chor Minor with its turquoise domes will mesmerise you with their beauty!

There is also the option of visiting the mountain areas as respite from the heat and exploring the traditional cultures with an overnight stay in a yurt in Nurata. Plus, you could also take a camel ride through the desert to break up the journey. The summer palace of Alim Khan is also a worthwhile stop. There are so many activities to partake in witha visit to Uzbekistan and the food is also scrumptious with the national, rice-based dish of Plov to try. The non-bread also features on daily menus with different regional designs!

The landscapes alone are spectacular with very mesmerising views including a visit to the fortress that Alexander the Great had located in Nurata, which is a desert area. Furthermore, petroglyphs can be viewed at Sarmysh Gorge. Uzbekistan is certainly a destination that you will always talk about and remember fondly.

Suggested by: Latoya from Franglais27 Tales .

Ulaanbaatar is a fascinating place to visit at any time of year but July and August bring long, hot sunny days and light evenings so you can make the most of your sightseeing days.

In the middle of July, Mongolians gather throughout the country for the nations’ biggest festival, Naadam, a rousing and colourful spectacle celebrating the traditional sporting abilities of the nomadic tribes and Mongolian people. However, if you visit in August, Ulaanbaatar (and the rest of Mongolia) will be quieter and accommodation will be cheaper and easier to find. Explore the museums, historic and religious sights of Ulaanbaatar such as Gandantegchenling Monastery with its enormous standing Buddha.

The summer months are an ideal time for a trip to the Mongolian steppe to see the impressive Genghis Khan statue and the scenic Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. The open, exposed steppe is easier to visit in summer than in winter and you can enjoy hiking, cycling and horse riding activities. Stay with a local family in one of their yurts or ‘gers’ where the clear night skies of summer will provide you with amazing star-filled skies.

Suggested by: Sinead from Map Made Memories .

-Lake Bikal

Lake Baikal is one of the best places in Russia to get out of the cities and experience the country’s vast expanses of unadulterated nature. It’s the oldest and deepest lake in the world, and the largest freshwater lake in the world. But since the lake is in Siberia, the climate is bitterly cold outside of the summer season. In fact, it’s completely frozen over for four to five months of the year!

If you want to go hiking or camping, the window of opportunity is fairly short, and July and August are the best months. It’s possible to swim in the lake too, but be prepared for some very cold water! There’s a fabulous hiking trail called the Great Baikal Trail, which hugs the shoreline along the cliffs between Listvyanka and Bolshoie Koty. The trail is about 22 kilometers long and takes five to eight hours to complete. 

Foreign tourists usually visit Lake Baikal as part of a longer trip by train along the Trans-Siberian Railway, taking in other sights along the way, such as the Kremlin of Kazan and the Boris Yeltsin Center in Yekaterinburg. If you want to visit just the lake, you should fly into Irkutsk, which is about 70 kilometers from Listvyanka. From there, you can take a minibus or a ferry to reach the lake.  

Suggested by: Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan.

And there you have it! I hope you can now work out where will be the best place to travel in July and August to get good weather and small crowds whilst the Summer Holidays are happening!

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Tuesday 14th of January 2020

Hi there! we traveled last summer for 3 months in SE Asia.(Thailand, Laos,Cambodia and Vietnam) and from Laos Vientiane(capital) is basically just a stopover city to travel through to other amazing places this country has to offer, Laos is still very virgin and unknown so now is the time to go as it’s un ruined by tourism, for example if you are coming from Thailand you should do a 2 day boat trip to Luang Prabang and spend some time in this impressive city as there are over 50 temples here to visit, the food, the markets, the people!!! also the Kuang si falls. Vang Vieng is the “touristy area “ amazing, and beautiful nature and has lots of super cool activities yo offer, from zip lining to kayak to going in donuts in caves, to cheap buggy rides to the lakes through the rice fieds. and at last the 3000 islands on the mekong delta, also an amazing place to visit, in the middle of nowhere you suddenly find theese beautiful virgin islands with also. a lot to offer. So please change the part of Vientiane and include theese amazing spots. it’s also one of the cheapest places in Asia, cheaper then Thailand and Vietnam!!

TheWanderingQuinn

Monday 3rd of February 2020

Thank you for this, thats so good to hear! I will add them in! :)

Friday 20th of September 2019

Mongolia has the most beautiful landscapes I have ever visited, I remember that with my friends we did a picnic and we all loved the idea of returning as soon as possible. (we have not returned to for work :(((((( so sad hahahahah).

Wednesday 16th of October 2019

Ah wow that's so good to know! I do plan to go there next year!!

L - Franglais27

Saturday 10th of August 2019

Love this post! I quite often consider travelling to Asia in July/ August as I typically have my longer holiday then. I have probably been quite fortunate in avoiding heavy rains whilst visiting Vietnam, Cambodia, China and other places in that time. Uzbekistan is also quite good to visit during the summer months and Georgia and Armenia which are on that cusp of Europe and Asia.

That’s great to know and good to know you enjoyed Georgia and Armenia at this time of year, I thought it might be quite hot there. If you want to write a piece to add to the post with a photo just pop me an email on [email protected] :)

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SOLO TRAVEL , ASIA , DESTINATIONS , SOLO LOCATION GUIDES

The best destinations for solo travel in asia.

Are you looking for the best places to travel alone in Asia?

Then you’ve come to the right place. In my 30+ years as a female solo traveller, I have visited Asia on multiple occasions.

In my view, Asia is one of the best global destinations for your first solo trip .

Ready to dive into solo travel in Asia? This article will steer you through the best Asian countries for solo travellers, and arm you with essential safety tips if you are a woman travelling alone.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

Dreaming of your first solo trip? Click here to download your FREE solo travel toolkit . 

It’s just what you need to kickstart your plans!

IN THIS ARTICLE

Best Asian Countries for Solo Travellers

In a hurry? Here are the Asian solo travel destinations covered in this article.

South Korea

Why solo travel in asia.

So why is Asia a great solo travel destination?

It’s relatively safe , easy to travel around and offers a vast choice of cultures and cuisine . As there is a well-worn tourist route, it is easy to meet other travellers .

Many (‘tho not all) Asian countries are very affordable , allowing a splash of luxury travel for less money .

I love the diversity that Asia offers, which is why have returned time and time again. There is something for every solo traveller

Best Solo Travel Destinations in Asia

That said, there are some countries in Asia that are more suited to solo travel than others.

Public transport and infrastructure are better in some destinations. Other places offer a particularly vibrant and friendly local culture .

If your travel budget is a consideration, the cost of living is lower in some countries than in others.

With these factors in mind, I have put together a list of the best Asian countries for solo travel. Although fellow travel writers have helped compile this list, I have travelled alone in most of these places, some on multiple occasions.

For each country, I have indicated how easy and expensive it is to visit, and whether you should consider it as a first-time solo traveller.

>>> Get inspiration to book your solo trip to Asia with these best quotations about travelling alone and these inspirational books by solo travellers.

Solo safety & ease of travel: 4 out of 5 Travel costs: Cheap Recommended for first-time solo travellers: Yes

As Cambodia’s dark past is recent, there’s so much to experience and learn during a visit to the country that you will leave here enriched and with new perspectives on the world. From seeing ancient ruins left by the powerful Khmer Empire to the twentieth-century horrors of the Khmer Rouge , every day in Cambodia is full of nuance.

Cambodia might seem daunting for a solo traveller, but if you take normal, common-sense safety measures the country is one of the best places in Asia to travel alone.

Reasons to visit Cambodia as a solo traveller

• Many of the best activities are perfect for day trips on organized tours
• It’s easier to process challenging material when you are alone
• Easy to get between major destinations alone
• Inexpensive accommodations and transportation eliminate the “solo tax”
• You can spend as much (or as little) time in Angkor as you want

Top tips for visiting Cambodia as a solo traveller

• Try to arrive in Phnom Penh and  Siem Reap  during the daytime to maximise safety.
• Buy a Cambodian SIM card on arrival to allow you to more easily communicate with hosts (have your accommodation’s contact information available ahead of time).
• Use rideshare apps to arrange taxis in Phnom Penh to get a competitive rate.
• For photography opportunities when travelling in Angkor alone, ask your tuk-tuk driver. He or she will be used to taking photos of tourists; just tip accordingly for the extra service.

By Stephanie of History Fangirl

Solo safety & ease of travel: 3 out of 5 Travel costs: Medium Recommended for first-time solo travellers: Yes

With 17,000 islands,  6,000 of which are inhabited, Indonesia has no shortage of choices for solo travellers.

Although the small island of Bali is the most famous destination, there is so much more to discover. The variety of cultures and landscapes within this country is astounding; every island, from Sumatra and Java to Sulawesi and Flores, provides a different experience.

As the largest island in Indonesia, Sumatra rewards intrepid travellers with a little bit of everything.

Hike active volcanoes, explore the rainforest in search of wild orangutans and elephants, laze on deserted beaches, dive among pristine coral reefs, or discover an island set in the largest volcanic lake in the world – Lake Toba . In Sumatra alone, there’s an astounding array of cultures, cuisines, landscapes, and languages to lose yourself in.

The  best time to visit Sumatra  (and elsewhere in Indonesia) is during the peak of the dry season, during June, July, and August. This is high season for tourists, but the joy of visiting lesser-known areas such as Sumatra is that you’ll seldom run into crowds.

Reasons to visit Indonesia as a solo traveller

• Friendly, welcoming locals who treat you like family
• Affordable accommodation – even solo you can afford a private room
• Safe – low crime rate against tourists

Top tip for visiting Indonesia as a solo traveller

• Learn at least a few key words and phrases in Indonesian. Outside of the tourist hotspots, English may not be spoken.
• Indonesian is super easy to learn, and the ability to communicate makes your life easier and helps you have a more authentic local experience.

By Carly and Agung of We Are Sumatra

Solo safety & ease of travel: 3 out of 5 Travel costs: Cheap Recommended for first-time solo travellers: No

There are many reasons to visit Iran .

It is an incredibly diverse country with vast desert areas, jungle, canyons and impressive islands, and is home to the highest mountain in the Middle East, Mount Damavand at 5,610 meters. Furthermore, the architecture is beyond beautiful.

There are endless things to add to your  Iran itinerary  with astounding mosques and shrines found in every city and you can follow the ancient Silk Road through old caravanserais and bazaars.

Reasons to visit Iran as a solo traveller

• Extremely safe to travel as a solo female
• Locals are super friendly and will help you with anything you need. Friendly locals also mean that it’s easy to get a good connection to people when you travel solo and you can expect to be invited for dinner or to other fun activities with locals – a true cultural immersion.
• Easy to travel around by bus or to get a private driver
• Very cheap accommodation, which means you don’t spend a fortune travelling solo

Top tips for visiting Iran as a solo traveller

• A translation app between English and Farsi is helpful when travelling to Iran as you’ll meet people who don’t speak English. However, the people are so friendly and you get a long way with sign language and smiles.
• Make sure that you are open to connecting with people and you’ll have the time of your life.

By Linn of Brainy Backpackers

Editor’s note

Due to ongoing security concerns, travel to Iran is not currently recommended. For current travel advice, check the advice of the UK FCO here .

Solo safety & ease of travel: 4 out of 5 Travel costs: Medium – Expensive Recommended for first-time solo travellers: Yes

If I was pushed to make a choice, Japan would be one of my favourite countries.

It offers an intoxicating mix of the ancient and the modern, retaining its rich culture and historical heritage whilst innovating and embracing technological advances. Japan is also home to some of the best food on the planet, from  okonomiyaki  in Osaka  to  Fukuoka’s legendary Hakata ramen .

Recent  solo travel surveys  point to Japan as an ideal destination for first-time solo travellers . And as a solo traveller, you won’t be viewed with suspicion or pity because you are travelling alone.

Reasons to visit Japan as a solo traveller

• Japan is very safe
• The country has a superb and efficient travel infrastructure.
• Eating out alone  is a cultural norm
• Japan is home to some of the tastiest food on the planet
• For its specular landscapes and bubbling onsens

Top tip for visiting Japan as a solo traveller

Although English is spoken in popular cities, learning a few words in Japanese will go a long way. Failing that, have Google Translate at the ready.

• What is Japan Famous For? 30 Reasons to Visit Japan
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• Kyoto 2-Day Itinerary: Highlights of Japan’s Cultural Heart
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• Best Things To Do in Kagoshima, Japan in One Day: Itinerary & Guide
• 2-Day Kanazawa Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Japan’s Samurai Town
• Top Things to Do in Fukuoka in One Day
• One Day in Osaka, Japan
• Is The Japan Rail Pass Worth It?

Malaysia  is a criminally underrated solo travel destination that offers a diversity of cultures and landscapes and has a rich historical heritage.

Peninsular Malaysia is more developed, and more touristed, and includes the capital, Kuala Lumpu r, along with other popular destinations, including Melaka and Penang . 

By contrast, Eastern Malaysia is quieter and may appeal to those with a more adventurous nature. This side of the country features white sand-fringed islands that offer sensational diving and the jungles of Borneo .

Reasons to visit Malaysia as a solo traveller

• Malaysia is a relatively safe country
• It is home to some of the best, and cheapest, food in Asia. We’re talking hawker stall heaven here.
• It’s relatively cheap
• There’s a great travel infrastructure
• Malaysia offers a diversity of experiences, cultures and climates that is hard to rival.

Top tips for visiting Malaysia as a solo traveller

• Malaysia is a vast country; don’t try to do too much. Unless you have a lot of time available, choose between Eastern Malaysia or Western (peninsular) Malaysia. 
• The weather pattern favours east and west at different times of the year.
• The best time of year to visit Western (Peninsular) Malaysia is in the dry season between November and February. To escape the monsoon season, you should travel to Eastern Malaysia between March and September.

Solo safety & ease of travel: 2 out of 5 Travel costs: Cheap Recommended for first-time solo travellers: No

If you’re looking to escape from human civilization and reconnect with nature in wide-open spaces, there’s no better place than Mongolia.

The country offers diverse landscapes , including stark deserts, majestic mountains, and impossibly blue lakes.

Summer is the best time to visit Mongolia, as the weather can be unbearably cold at other times of the year. Luckily, Mongolia is pretty far off the beaten track, so you don’t have to worry about crowds at  Mongolia’s attractions  even in the high season.

In such a large and sparsely populated country, there is very little public transport, and often no real roads to speak of.

To explore the country, most visitors end up joining a budget tour in the capital, Ulaanbaatar. These are usually made up of five to eight tourists, and transport is by minivan or old Soviet off-road vans.

Reasons to visit Mongolia as a solo traveller

• The whole country is very safe
• Easy to make friends in guesthouses and ger camps
• Can easily join with other travellers to create a small tour group

Top tip for visiting Mongolia as a solo traveller

• Bring a sense of adventure! Accommodation is usually in gers (Mongolian yurts), either in ger camps specially built for tourists or in a nomadic family’s extra ger. If it’s the latter, the facilities will be very basic.
• Expect to use squat toilets and go without showering for a few days. Even in the tourist camps, there aren’t many luxuries. Mongolia is best suited to budget travellers who don’t require many creature comforts.

By Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

If you’re someone who enjoys nature, history, architecture and culture, Pakistan is one of the best places to travel alone in Asia.

This country has something to offer to every kind of traveller. If you’re seeking adventure, go for a hike in the northern part of the country, such as in the Hunza Valley in Gilgit. The views of the mountains there are absolutely incredible.

For delicious local cuisine and majestic architecture, make sure to spend a few days in Lahore , the cultural and food capital of the country.

One of the best  places to visit in Lahore  is the Badshahi Mosque , an amazing jewel of the Mughal Empire. You’ll not only be amazed by the stunning architecture of the mosque but can also enjoy exquisite local dishes at the famous Fort Road Food Street nearby.

Reasons to visit Pakistan as a solo traveller

• It’s a very safe country (contrary to what the media may feed you)
• The locals are super friendly, kind, and welcoming
• You won’t see crowds of tourists around and will have an authentic experience 
• It’s a beautiful country with remarkable natural and architectural wonders

Top tip for visiting Pakistan as a solo traveller

Hire a local guide or go around with a local friend if you want to visit Lahore. It can be a big hassle to get around this city on your own, as the tourism sector there isn’t well developed.

By Jiayi of The Diary of a Nomad

Solo safety & ease of travel: 4 out of 5 Travel costs: Medium to expensive Recommended for first-time solo travellers: Yes

South Korea is a country of contrasts.

The traditional temples and houses blend together with tall skyscrapers and office buildings.

A trip to Hongdae , Seoul or the famous  Haedong Yonggungsa Temple  in Busan is a perfect introduction to the rich culture and friendly people of South Korea. If you want to explore the beautiful nature of this country, head to Jeju Island and you’ll discover pristine beaches, hidden waterfalls, and intriguing lava tubes.

South Korea is full of incredible sights to please any kind of traveller. 

Reasons to visit South Korea as a solo traveller

• South Korea is one of the safest countries in Asia to visit as a solo traveller. The crime rate is very low.
• The locals are super-friendly
• The country has a well-developed infrastructure of trains, buses, and subway systems
• Most of the younger generation in big cities speak English so you shouldn’t have any problems asking for information or directions. However, in more remote destinations you’ll find fewer people speaking English.

Top tip for visiting South Korea as a solo traveller

You should take into consideration that South Korea is pretty expensive. Much like its neighbour Japan, the prices here are two or three times higher than in destinations in South East Asia. If you’re on a budget, you should consider skipping South Korea.  

By Aurelia of Daily Travel Pill

Sri Lanka is one of the gems of Asia. An island paradise bursting with beauty on every corner, a trip to Sri Lanka will satisfy all types of solo travellers.

There is so much to see and do , from pristine beaches with lots of snorkelling opportunities, and ethical safari experiences, to ancient temples and World Heritage sites.

Sri Lanka is also a diverse country with regard to the climate.

There are two monsoon seasons that occur on each side of the island and, right in the middle, the weather is cooler in “Little England” where the tea fields flourish and the waterfalls and mountains rise. Sri Lanka is a great place to visit from August to October, but every month of the year has its benefits. 

Reasons to visit Sri Lanka as a solo traveller

• Its size: Sri Lanka is relatively small which means you can explore everywhere safely
• Friendly locals: Everyone in Sri Lanka is happy to help, and they don’t want anything in return
• Strong backpacker vibe: You’ll have lots of opportunities to meet fellow travellers on the road as there are strong backpacker vibes in areas such as Ella, and Arugam Bay
• It’s safe: Most trips to Sri Lanka are hassle-free and you’ll feel safe 

Top tip for visiting Sri Lanka as a solo traveller

Sri Lanka is one of the rare places where you can rent a tuk-tuk and self-drive around the country. This is an awesome way to get around and you’ll get to interact with locals, see sights that are off the beaten track, and be surrounded by beauty.

By Cazzy of Dream Big, Travel Far

>>> Get inspiration to book your solo trip to Sri Lanka with these beautiful images of Sri Lanka

Solo safety & ease of travel: 4 out of 5 Travel costs: Medium Recommended for first-time solo travellers: Yes

Taiwan is one of the best places to travel alone in Asia as a first-time solo traveller. It has all the quintessential Asian experiences without being as overwhelming and busy as many other Asian countries. 

As Taiwan is a small island, it is quick and easy to travel between cities. I highly recommend visiting Taipei and Kaohsiung . If you have extra time, Hualien is the perfect city to visit if you enjoy hiking and exploring nature.

October and November are the best months to visit Taiwan. It isn’t as unbearably hot as the summer months and doesn’t rain very often. However, it is still quite hot during those months, so you’ll still get to enjoy the heat and humidity Taiwan is known for. 

Reasons to visit Taiwan as a solo traveller

• A great public transportation system
• English is widely spoken
• Locals are incredibly kind

Top tips for visiting Taiwan as a solo traveller

• Eat dinner at the  night markets . Taiwan is a foodie’s paradise and has some of the best night markets in the world.
• Be careful where you sit on public transportation. There are designated seats on buses and trains for elderly people.  Don’t sit in them even if the bus or train is half-empty.

By Erica of Travels with Erica

Thailand is a great country for first-time solo travellers of any age, though experienced travellers can still get a kick out of its established digital nomad scene in cities such as Chiang Mai or by adventuring off-the-beaten-track.

Whether you want to take in the serenity of Khao Sok National Park , scooter around the hills and waterfalls in Pai or go  diving in Koh Lanta , both the hidden gems and established tourist trail of Thailand have something to offer.

Reasons to visit Thailand as a solo traveller

• Easy transport options that are cost-effective for solo travellers
• Generally safe. Just avoid getting too drunk as spiking is common. Stay with other backpackers and friends and don’t venture out to the beach alone when drinking. Also, watch out for theft on night buses.
• Established tourist scene
• A huge variety of cultural and natural attractions in one country
• Great hostel scene with cheap private rooms too

Top tips for visiting Thailand as a solo traveller

• Thailand also has an amazing food scene, even for vegan travellers, great hiking opportunities and ample historical temples for you to marvel at.
• I was initially put off Thailand by the stereotype of drunk backpackers and a worn-out tourist trail. However, the country won me over. It is so much more than that. There is something for everyone in Thailand, and at a low budget too. 

By Cass of Cassie the hag

• An Easy DIY Bangkok Boat Tour: Exploring Bangkok’s Temples 
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• Santhiya Resort Koh Yao Yai Review: A Piece of Paradise?

Uzbekistan  is an up-and-coming destination since it introduced visa-free entry a couple of years ago. This is no surprise as this country is rich in history and culture and there are lots of things to see and do.

Weather-wise, spring and autumn are the best times to visit. 

Uzbekistan was once an important part of the Silk Road .

The ancient cities of Samarkand, Khiva and Bukhara retain their beautiful Islamic architecture and bazaars. It’s not hard to imagine camel caravans passing through when you walk through the scenic alleyways of these cities. People are still welcoming of visitors and will greet you with a smile.

Reasons to visit Uzbekistan as a solo traveller

• Uzbekistan is one of the safest countries in Asia
• New high-speed trains make it easy to travel between cities
• Hostels are opening up throughout the country so it is easy to meet other travellers
• Uzbekistan is still relatively cheap.

Top tips for visiting Uzbekistan as a solo traveller

• Try not to skip Tashkent. The capital might lack the ancient Silk Road architecture, but is a great city to learn more about modern Uzbek culture. It is one of the best places to try Uzbek food.
• Other worthwhile off-the-beaten-path destinations include the Fergana Valley, with its traditional handicrafts, and the ancient desert castles of Khorezm.

By Ellis of Backpack Adventures

Vietnam is one of the most well-known travel destinations in Southeast Asia for so many reasons. It offers a rich culture, as well as history. If that’s not enough to lure you into visiting the country, Vietnam is also one of the most budget-friendly destinations in the world. 

Reasons to visit Vietnam as a solo traveller

• You can go far in Vietnam on a tight budget as the country is known as one of the cheapest places to travel. You can even book luxurious accommodation in a relatively affordable price range.
• It’s relatively safe
• It has an excellent infrastructure with many ways to travel around the country. Some travellers buy a cheap motorbike or scooter to move around, while bus and flight options are also available. 

Top tips for visiting Vietnam as a solo traveller

• If you’re the kind of traveller who’s after vibrant local culture, visit Hoi An. Or why not have a luxury experience by booking a cruise trip around Ha Long Bay?
• Sa Pa or  An Giang Province  are recommended if you’re seeking natural beauty. And if you’re into history, don’t miss the capital city Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. 

By Marya of The BeauTraveler

Top 10 Tips for Solo Female Travel in Asia

Travelling solo as a woman in Asia can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it’s important to prioritize safety and plan ahead. Here are my top solo travel safety tips .

1. Booking accommodation

Choosing the right accommodation is one of the keys to safe solo travel. Book well-reviewed, reputable hotels or hostels in busy areas. Read reviews from other solo female travellers on Booking.com or Tripadvisor .

2. Getting around

Use reputable transportation services, especially at night. Consider using taxi apps such as Grab , Bolt and InDrive .

3. Seeing the sights

Try to plan activities during daylight hours and avoid going out alone at night.

I’m a huge fan of day tours and activities and book these through GetYourGuide . They are a fabulous way of meeting other travellers .

4. Dress Respectfully

Dress modestly to respect local customs and avoid unwanted attention. Take your cue from local women. I usually carry a sarong or scarf to cover my shoulders and knees for visits to religious sites.

5. Stay Connected

Carry a local SIM card or an international roaming plan for your phone and download maps and translation apps. I always share my itinerary with family back home.

6. Travel Insurance

Take out comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, theft and trip cancellations. I buy my travel insurance from Staysure .

7. Money and Documents

Lock up your valuables whenever possible.

Use an anti-theft backpack when you are out and about. I use  this PacSafe backpack  which has anti-RFID technology and a hidden pocket.

Make photocopies or digital backups of your documents.

8. Don’t shout about your solo status

Avoid telling strangers that you’re travelling alone.

Use gender-neutral language when discussing your travel plans.

9. Go easy on the booze

Limit alcohol consumption, especially in unfamiliar environments. Never accept a drink from a stranger unless you see it being made.

10. Trust Your Instincts

Above all, if a situation or person makes you uncomfortable, remove yourself from it. A little bit of common sense goes a long way.

READ THIS NEXT: 17 Essential Safety Tips for Travelling Alone

Asia Solo Travel: Final Thoughts

I hope that these recommendations inspire you to plan your solo trip to Asia. This is one of the easiest continents to visit as a solo traveller and one that reaps rewards many times over.

If you are not sure whether you are ready to explore Asia independently, why not join a  group tour ? These are particularly useful in Asian countries that are not easy to travel around independently (e.g. Mongolia), or that are daunting for the first-time solo traveller (e.g. Pakistan).

As well as being a relatively hassle-free way of travelling, there are many other  benefits of a group tour  as a solo traveller. There are lots of  group travel companies  out there but two companies that I have used and can recommend are  Exodus Travels  and  Explore Worldwide!

You’ll have an expertly curated itinerary and you often gain valuable insights into the country, the people and culture. Generally, there’s safety in numbers. Finally, if you fear solo travel loneliness, there’s the reassurance of ready-made travel companions.

READ THESE NEXT:

• 40 Best Places to Travel Alone in Europe
• 23 Best Places to Travel Alone in the USA
• 19 Awesome Places to Travel Alone in Africa

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

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Southeast Asia, my travel itinerary

Last update : 08/02/2021

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Even though I have returned from my tour of Southeast Asia at the end of 2013, 6 years ago as I’m writing these lines, I can’t help thinking about it. It’s like a song you love and can’t get out of your head. It does happen quite often to think to myself or to say “do you remember when we went to that little temple over there… and when we went to eat at that little place in the street… when we went to Cambodia …”. In short, my head is full of memories, it’s a fact and I realize having been able to make this 1-year tour of Asia was really one of the most beautiful experiences I had the opportunity to live.

In fact, I had started blogging in 2012/2013, mainly for allowing our family and friends to follow us during this trip. In the meantime, life had sort of caught up with me and I hadn’t been able to keep writing. I kind of picked up the torch by opening this travel blog in June 2017. I had already started to write about some Asian countries, but I thought it could be more interesting to talk about my itinerary in Southeast Asia and give an overview. I won’t explain here what you need to know to prepare a travel plan of Southeast Asia, as I plan to do it in another article. However: How did I choose my itinerary? Why did I choose it? What was my route in general? My favorites and disappointments of this long trip? Well, you’ll find all these answers here!

I know many of you are trying to prepare your vacations activities as best as possible. So, I advise you to take a look at this great site that compares prices for all the activities available in many places around the world, including Southeast Asia.

Small geography lesson

I’m sorry, but as a geographer, I often feel the need to write about geography in articles! Don’t be mad at me! Geographically speaking, the Southeast Asian region is considered to extend south of China/Japan, north of Australia and east of India. If we make a small list of autonomous countries, we have Burma, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, East Timor and Vietnam – a total of 11 countries and tens of thousands of islands! I visited 8 out of the 11, it’s not too bad (even if, honestly…we don’t really care about how many countries we’ve visited, it’s not a run, isn’t it?).

Southeast Asia Map

Choose the length of the trip and the locations

Back when my wife and I were thinking of going to Asia, we were living on the island of Mayotte, in the middle of the Indian Ocean. We decided to save money for a year and a half and then left for a one-way trip to the farthest reaches of Asia, a region of the world still unknown. Before leaving, we agreed on two things:

• Staying in Southeast Asia : it was a personal will not to choose to go “around the world”. It was a little less common at that time than it is in 2019, when everyone is doing it and wants to “travel the more they can”… We really wanted to take our time and especially not to run from one tourist spot to another. And with hindsight now, I’m glad I made the choice to focus only on a small region of the world. I really feel like I do know the area very well although some countries would have deserved that we spent more than the classic Visa month there.
• Going one-way was also a really important point for us. Indeed, the main idea of this trip was to discover a region of the world while taking our time as much as possible. What could be better than leaving without return dates? Because when you think about it, leaving with your return ticket means you already have a deadline in your sight. Leaving with a one-way ticket to an unknown destination was for us the ideal way to leave with an empty head, without having to think about the return, etc… The only thing you need to take into account in this particular case is having enough money aside to stay there, and especially to come back home when you want to. I could also write an article (certainly very critical) on travelers (those famous “begbackers” who beg for money in poor countries to be able to pay for their return ticket…).

Organize your itinerary according to the weather forecast

This is a great debate we had at the beginning. Should we organize the itinerary of our trip or not at all? With more than 5 years of hindsight on my trip, I must confess that I was a little disappointed with the way we decided to travel. It is essentially my fault, I admit it, but I had decided to organize a kind of itinerary according to the weather – mainly to stay in the countries at the right time and to avoid the big monsoon periods, which can easily ruin a trip.

So, I relied on websites like Where and when to travel? which allow to visualize quite quickly which is the best season for each country. This is what we had planned before leaving, as an itinerary template.

December/January : Central/Western and Northern Thailand

February : Laos

March : Vietnam

April/May : Cambodia

May/June : Burma / Southern Thailand

June/July : Malaysia + Singapore

August : Indonesia Sumatra

September : Indonesia Sulawesi.

Except a few exceptions, that’s more or less the itinerary we followed. The only snag at the end of the trip was that we could not go to Sulawesi because we had to be evacuated by the travel insurance as we were sick in the middle of the jungle in Sumatra. But I’ll tell you more about it later on.

Anyway, if I had to do it again – and I hope I’ll do so that my little one could discover it – I wouldn’t plan that much, even on the weather side. At a pinch, to have a general idea of the countries I would like to visit, but nothing more. There are one-way flights from Paris to Bangkok for only 220/250€ and, once there, traveling in other countries costs almost nothing. That’s my plan! For Canadians planning a trip in the area, there are flights from Canada to Thailand, starting at 500$ if you are flexible.

My itinerary in Southeast Asia

Here is a small testimony of our trip in Southeast Asia. As I already said back in time, we should travel twice in Asia: a first time to visit the great tourist attractions (because, despite what we can say, we all go there!) and a second one to forget all these spots by getting off the beaten path. Basically, you take your Lonely Planet travel guidebook, and you don’t go to any place mentioned in the book. Cool idea, isn’t it? It might make you smile, but I’m not far from the truth. I travelled for a year, visiting all the touristic spots almost every time, and you may as well be prepared: you’re going to come across many (many!) tourists. We had a few moments where we pushed ourselves and deviated from the basic routes, and we keep such good memories of it! Because afterwards, it is not the city of Angkor, Ha Long Bay or Phuket we’ll remember from our trip in Asia. Well, at least not me!

Let’s go for a quick travel story in pictures, to make you want to discover the region.

Our beginnings in Western and Central Thailand

Our itinerary began as many others’ in Bangkok, Thailand, a few days before New Year’s Day. After enjoying the basic visits in Bangkok (The Royal Palace, Wat Pho and its lying Buddha, Wat Arun, floating markets, Khao San Road, Chinatown, etc.), we continue our route westward towards Kanchanaburi and the famous Kwai River Bridge. A nice stop on the riverside, but it is quite crowded. We keep going a little more towards the Burmese border to the city of Sangkhlaburi. This is a really nice area with only a few tourists. Here, you should rent a motorcycle for one or two days, and go for a walk at the border. Amazing experience off the beaten track. If you are wondering where to go to Thailand , here is an idea!

We then come back to Bangkok to keep following the classic route: Ayutthaya and Sukhothai. This is the cultural part, with many temple visits. We really appreciate, in particular the outside of the park of Sukhothai, the Si Satchanalai. A beautiful Indiana Jones atmosphere.

We follow the route towards Chiang Mai (way too many people for me) and Chiang Rai (already calmer). We rather quickly pass the area to arrive to a little village in the mountains: Mae Salong. We spend 4 days in these beautiful sceneries at altitude where it is good to live. Same advice again: rent motorcycles and get lost for a few days at the border of China. There are almost no tourists here, people don’t speak English and it’s perfect this way.

A very nice meeting with a French couple bilingual in Thai makes us change our route, and we go down along the Mekong towards the Nan region, at the Isan’s border. We spend a few days in this area, visiting traditional Thai villages and enjoying countryside life. Don’t look for tourists here: there are none. We even attend an unexpected funeral ceremony in a small village. A moment that will remain engraved in our memories.

The road still continues along the Mekong river towards Chang Khan (a famous village for Thai tourists) and Sangkhom (a small and quiet municipality on the riverside). If you have the opportunity, it is a very peaceful area but really worth to see. The initial idea being to go up to Laos (and then down to Vietnam), we cross the border walking to Mukdahan. Here we are in Laos!

Going on a trip to Laos, the continuation

The passage to Laos gives us a shock, but obviously in a good way. We roll back 50 years ago compared to Thailand, and it’s great to see. We go down towards the South in Paksé to do the Boloven plateau road. Superb experience in motorcycle during 3 days, even if there would apparently be much more people now? A few days spent at the 4000 islands, on the island of Don Det (the least polluted by tourists at that time) in a peaceful setting, we then cross the country in a night bus to the capital city Vientiane, which is honestly of no major interest.

We head towards the very beautiful (and very touristic) Luang Prabang, further north. We spend the week exploring the region while waiting for our visas for Vietnam. We did a really nice small day river cruise on the Mekong to Pakbeng. We go even further north, to the village of Nong Khiaw (a favorite during our Laos trip ) where we spend another week or so, exploring the area on foot, bike or motorcycle.

The journey keeps going by boat in the direction of Muang Ngoi. The Vietnamese border is not that far. Even if we meet some tourists here, this is a really beautiful region and you can even stay a few days to stroll and hike in the area. The boat trip ends in Muang Khua, from where we will cross the border to the very famous Vietnamese city of Dien Bien Phu.

Travel in Vietnam from North to South

The passage from Laos to Vietnam is superb and straight after we follow a splendid road towards Sapa, a small town in the North-West of the country. Even though it’s touristic, we still have a good time hanging out in town and around, enjoying the breathtaking views over the rice fields. 12 hours by train later, we arrive in Hanoi and spend a few days discovering this really nice city. A little bit of culture and gastronomy, we’re in for a treat!

Small necessary stopover by the famous Ha Long Bay. We spend 3 days accompanied by a very nice German couple and wander on a small boat through these majestic landscapes.

Back on dry land, we keep descending towards Ninh Binh, the bay of Ha Long land as it is nicknamed. A passage in Hué (by night sleeper train), then Hoi Han allows us to deeply discover the country.

We continue the road towards Dalat, inland. A small friendly stop in the middle of the countryside. Back into the city, Ho Chin Minh City is very nice and we take advantage of it to go sightseeing a bit. We make the most of the opportunity to go to Can Tho and visit the magnificent floating market. We finish our road at the Vietnamese border in Ha Tien, where we spend a few days resting (and eating mangoes as well as other local dishes). For fruit lovers, the Mekong Delta is a paradise.

Welcome to Cambodia

We cross the Vietnam-Cambodia border by motorcycle to the town of Kep, known for its green pepper crab. A quick stop on a small relaxing island, Ko Tonsay (Rabbit Island), does us good. On the program: liters of beer, all-you-can-eat crab shared with Cambodians and midnight bath! We continue on our way to Battambang where we meet Thomas and Pauline, a French couple with whom we sympathize. Fun fact: at the time of writing these few lines, we are back in touch and they just settled in Tahiti. What a small world, isn’t it?

We continue the trip towards the temples of Angkor , where we will spend 3 days discovering wonderful Cambodian World Heritage sites. We try our best to avoid the hordes of tourists and frankly, we are doing pretty well overall. Even if it’s very (very) touristic, I would recommend anyone to spend 3 days there to appreciate these places. A small visit of the city of Pnom Penh is nevertheless a must see for 1 or 2 days.

We end our trip in Cambodia with a week in the Mondolkiri region, in the North-East of the country. This is a cooler region, a little bit more mountainous and it was such a nice discovery!

First return to Thailand

We come back by the land border to Thailand, that we left a few months before. The main idea was to rest for a week getaway on an island on the Thai side. Following a beautiful encounter, we settle one week on the Koh Chang island, not far from the border. We spend an amazing week with several Thai families, discussing about local life, tasting typical dishes and sharing. We also take the opportunity to visit Koh Chang, which is very beautiful and way less touristic than some islands in the South of Thailand.

Back to the capital for a few days in Bangkok before flying to Burma for 2 weeks. At the time, we could only enter the country by air. For a few years now, land crossings in certain places seem to be authorized.

Discovery of Burma

We may set the tone directly: Burma will remain by far our favorite part of our Southeast Asia trip. The contrast with the other countries we just visited is huge, and you are really in something way different! You could even consider that Burma is a little bit “on the edge of Southeast Asia”.

In 2013, the tourism in Burma had just opened little by little, but there was not so much crowds yet. It seems to speed up a bit in the last years apparently. A large part of the country was not even open yet for travellers to visit.

So, we visited the places which were possible, that’s to say the city of Bago and its extraordinary market, the region of the Inle Lake (around Nyaungshwe) or the region around Hsipaw, further north in the mountains. We then went back down to the region of the famous Bagan temples ruins to end our stay with a visit of Yangoon.

The big difference with other South East Asian countries in 2013 was mainly the few people there. Tourism wasn’t really developed yet, and people were really curious to see you here, asked all kinds of questions to exchange, and it was a great experience! In our route, we were several times invited to eat and we made superb, authentic, real encounters. The notion of money related to tourism was frankly not very present at this time, and it’s the first country where we had real exchanges with locals.

We keep a superb memory of this country and I honestly would like to go back and see more of it before it becomes a real tourist factory like some other Asian countries.

Descent towards the South of Thailand

Our passage in the South of Thailand was the only thing not really adjusted to the climate when preparing our itinerary in South East Asia. Indeed, we arrived there theoretically in the middle of the rainy season and in the “off” tourism season (so much the better!).

A little tired after travelling already 6 months, we decide to settle down on a small unknown – or almost unknown – island on the west coast (Andaman Sea): Koh Phayam island. Here, nothing to do but enjoying the landscape, places, small local restaurants. We find a guesthouse closed for several months with a small note on the table: “it’s closed, but you can settle down and pay to this person in the village”. Something inconceivable in France…

We spend a great week in what I consider to be a small paradise: no tourists, heavenly beaches with coconut trees, very tasty Thai food and nothing else to do than reading, eating coconuts and clams that we pick up on the beach. Out of season, we are not far from the perfect island!

We keep going towards Malaysia and decide to stay on the famous island of Koh Lanta (yes, the same one than the TV show). We will spend there 10 days off-season. There is almost nobody, everything is closed, as well the hotels as the restaurants – a kind of ghost island during the rainy season, which is finally not so unpleasant!

We voluntarily avoid the islands way too touristic for us (Koh Phi Phi, Phuket, Koh Samui etc.) and continue the road to Hat Hai for a passage by train in Malaysia.

Arrival in Malaysia

I must say that we were quite surprised as we arrive in the country, as it seems very “clean” compared to what we have known for these 6 past months. Visiting Kuala Lampur for a few days is nice.

We decide to go North in direction of the Cameron Highlands, especially famous for their tea plantations. It’s chilly up there and the landscapes are pretty different, which is nice to see. Then, we spend a few days on Penang island, a very nice island you can discover by scooter, between Chinese temples, waterfalls and beaches!

We cross then the Malaysian peninsula towards the Perenthian islands, and we now settle down on the supposed quietest island: Pulau Besar. We spend there some beautiful days of relaxation. We have a very good time, still without too many people.

The journey continues with the island of Tioman, where we stay a little week. We decided to go on the other side of the island, known once again as less touristic. We barely see nobody, that’s saying something! We spend excellent moments in this paradisiacal setting.

An lightning visit of a few days in Singapore to quickly feel like a European in this trip in Asia. It’s nice, but personally not what I prefer. We return then for the visit of the very beautiful city of Malacca. We were supposed to spend only a few days there, but it will finally be about ten days. Some visits but mainly some rest, well deserved after already 8 months of travel. We take advantage of it to work on the pictures too! We leave Malaysia for the last country of the trip: Indonesia, where we will stay for 2 months (yes, we’ve finally bought our return tickets!).

The discovery of Indonesia!

We had decided to voluntarily avoid the tourist islands like Bali and others, and decided to spend 2 months in the country: one on the island of Sumatra and the other one on Sulawesi island. So, we landed in Medan, capital of Sumatra, a big heaving and polluted city. Not the most charming one, for sure. After some health problems, we continue our road towards the famous place where you can see Orang-Outangs in the forest: Bukit Lawang.

Honestly, we do feel that tourism has arrived there, but I find the atmosphere still very good. We spend 3 days in this superb setting, in the middle of the tropical forest, to observe all these animals. Amazing!

We keep going in direction of Berastagi, where we were planning to go for a hike in the surroundings. 18 km of walk made a superb day at the edge of a volcano. The atmosphere is great, we cross a very few tourists around here, and we live at the locals’ rhythm. We have very good memories of it.

We leave this small sympathetic corner for the famous Lake Toba and the Tuk-Tuk small locality. We will have time, for a few days, to enjoy the area by scooter, and I really recommend to anyone to stop by here and enjoy the surroundings. There are plenty of things to see around the lake: typical house, waterfall, hiking, discovery of the rural area by motorcycle, etc. It will make your trip even more unforgettable!

Unfortunately for us, after an endemic parasite which does not disappear, 10 days of antibiotics, several round trips to the Medan hospital, we have no choice but to mourn over the end of our trip in Indonesia , and not to go to Sulawesi. We are in such a great disappointment, knowing that we had planned to stay 1 month in full-board in some superb diving spots of the country. We are repatriated by our insurance (somehow) to Paris, with a return flight Medan -> Kuala Lampur -> Hong-Kong -> Paris. That’s also part of the trip…

My favorites

On such a long and intense journey, it is difficult to love and appreciate everything. Here are a few favorites for each country, in no particular order.

Thailand : meetings with ethnic minorities in the region of Nan, a small village along the Mekong (Isan) and Koh Phayam

Laos : North of Laos with the discovery of superb landscapes north of Nong Khiaw and along the Mekong river. Visit of a typical village in the countryside with an expatriate (who spoke Laotian).

Vietnam : Motorbike ride north of Sapa, Ha Long Bay (such a beautiful place)

Cambodia : discovering the region of Mondolkiri

Burma : An endearing local population! The country is a favorite in itself. If you can get lost there now, just go.

Malaysia : Tioman Island and Malacca

Indonesia : A great love-at-first-sight with Sumatra, even if we didn’t see all the things we wanted to…

That’s it, I’ll stop here for this first article about Southeast Asia. I did not go into detail of all that we have done, seen and experienced – that was not the purpose here. Instead, it was to retrace our itinerary in Southeast Asia and to give you some trip ideas if you are planning to visit this part of the world.

As a bonus, I leave you via the following link (.kml to open with Google Earth) the complete trip itinerary and all the info about it. You’ll find all the routes (departure-arrival, duration, prices), the accommodations and the places of interest for these 10 months. Quite a job to do, believe me. When you’ll be around the world, I hope this sharing will be useful.

An article about budgeting for a trip to this part of the world will follow. It will mainly be based on our experience as backpackers. In the meantime, here is already a first article about budget for a trip to Thailand .

See you soon,

Despite our care, a mistake may have slipped into this article. If you find any, please don't hesitate to let us know so we can correct it as soon as possible and keep our information up-to-date!

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Best places to visit in asia.

From megacities to remote islands, Asia's top travel spots offer a hearty dose of adventure, ancient history and culture. And with most Asian destinations now fully open after years of pandemic restrictions, there has never been a better time to plan a trip. After considering local prices, accessibility and the variety of attractions in each destination, along with traveler feedback, U.S. News ranked the best places to visit in Asia. Contribute to next year's list by casting your vote below.

Sagarmatha National Park

Railay beach, guilin and lijiang river national park.

If your dream vacation involves posting up on a postcard-worthy beach, the Maldives is for you. This far-flung destination, which is located about 370 miles from civilization in the Indian Ocean, is made up of more than 1,100 idyllic islands (roughly 200 of which are inhabited). The Maldives feature lush tropical landscapes, unparalleled white sand beaches, crystal-clear ocean waters and coral reefs that prompt extensive exploration. The best way to experience this slice of paradise? Stay in one of many overwater bungalows , of course.

Tokyo is as fast-paced as cities come – it's the most populated city in the world, after all. Japan's capital features neon-lit skyscrapers and crowded streets that novice visitors may find dizzying, but its one-of-a-kind offerings can't be missed. Spend days touring quirky museums, exploring fascinating architecture or visiting Odaiba for its premier shopping scene. Or, take in some quieter, more peaceful moments at a holy site like the Meiji Shrine or Sensoji Temple. Tokyo's unrivaled gastronomic landscape (think: sushi, ramen, sky-high cocktail bars and more Michelin darlings than you could hope to visit) also makes it a bucket list destination for foodies.

Phuket, Thailand's elongated beaches and cerulean waters embody a paradise that few other Asian destinations can rival. Besides swimming and relaxing on the beach, visitors can take traditional, wooden longtail boat tours to James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay to see the surreal limestone rock formations that rise from the sea. The towering Big Buddha statue is also a top attraction, while Phuket's buzzing beach clubs and nightlife options hold appeal for those looking to let loose. What's more, like most destinations in Thailand, travelers can find relatively affordable lodging options here.

This Nepalese national park is famous for housing the behemoth that is Mount Everest, the highest point on earth, and promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. However, it is important to know that Sagarmatha is not just Everest. The UNESCO-listed park also offers several other sky-high Himalayan peaks, as well as sweeping valleys, scenic glaciers, deep gorges and incredible wildlife, including snow leopards and red pandas. Just note, seeing the park's top attractions typically requires at least two weeks of trekking, and due to Sagarmatha's high elevation and rocky, steep terrain, a trip here isn't for the faint of heart.

A British colony until 1997, Hong Kong's strong Western influence sets it apart from China's mainland metropolises. Beyond Hong Kong's sleek, towering skyscrapers (best admired from Victoria Peak), visitors can find natural and cultural gems on the more than 250 outlying islands, such as Lantau Island, or shop the city's bustling street markets. Dim sum is a must, but Hong Kong's robust dining scene also offers everything from street food to Michelin-starred fine dining. And when the sun goes down, watch the Symphony of Lights laser show dazzle the skyline along Victoria Harbor.

Tucked among lush mountains in northwest Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a sized-down version of Bangkok's buzz paired with a tranquil culture and natural beauty. Your urban itinerary should include tuk-tuk rides, tours of breathtaking temples like Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara and Wat Phra Singh, trips to night markets and a cooking class to try your hand at pad Thai. Then, step outside of the city walls to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary or two and a wander through beautiful Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.

History lovers and Instagrammers alike will revel in the sites of Kyoto. The city, which used to be Japan's capital until imperial times, is awash with centuries-old shrines and temples, including the gilded Kinkakuji and Fushimi Inari Taisha, a shrine that dates back to A.D. 711. In addition to saving time for religious sites, be sure to visit the famous Philosopher's Path, preferably during cherry blossom season, and the mystical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. When hunger strikes, treat yourself to kaiseki: a traditional multicourse meal native to Japan. For another essential Japanese experience, stay at one of the many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in Kyoto. 

From the moment you touchdown at Singapore Changi Airport (a tourist destination in itself), Singapore shows off its futuristic embellishment. But this Southeast Asia jewel is also unique for its amalgamation of cultures. This fusion takes form in the city's colorful neighborhoods, eclectic culinary scene and overall modern atmosphere. After shopping on flashy Orchard Road and chowing down in cultural enclaves like Little India or Chinatown, head downtown to take in the towering skyscrapers from Merlion Park, the Singapore Flyer or the sky-high Gardens by the Bay.

The island nation of Sri Lanka, located off the southern tip of India, boasts rainforests, beaches and ruins without the tourist crowds of other popular Asian destinations. Despite its small footprint, Sri Lanka features 26 national parks, many of which are ideal for a safari excursion to encounter elephants, leopards and sloth bears. Meanwhile, ancient sites like Sigiriya, a 600-foot-high fortress, and the temples of Polonnaruwa hold their own appeal, and the palm-fringed golden beaches that line the shores are never too far away for those seeking a more laid-back vacation.

Hanoi is perfect for first-time Vietnam visitors, with tranquil lakes offsetting its fast-paced bustle and darting motorbikes. The country's capital offers plenty in the way of history, culture, shopping, dining and natural splendor. Start your day off with a Vietnamese coffee, then head to Hanoi's central Old Quarter for a stroll through the many narrow, colorful streets and a taste of mouthwatering street food. After that, check out one of the city's many temples, including the ancient Temple of Literature, which dates back to the 11th century, or head to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a must-visit for history buffs.

Bali's natural beauty is so profound, travelers have been known to refer to the Indonesian destination as "heaven on Earth." Here, lush rainforests, picturesque mountains, sweeping valleys and scenic beaches all sit side by side. You'll also find a handful of serene temples in this Southeast Asia hot spot, including Uluwatu and Tanah Lot temples – both excellent places to catch a sunset. And no first-time trip to Bali would be complete without on a visit to Ubud, Bali's cultural capital and home of the region's famous rice terraces.

Whether you visit in spring (for cherry blossoms), summer (for climbing), autumn (for foliage) or winter (for nearby ski resorts), Japan's highest peak and imposing attraction is sure to capture your attention. Mount Fuji lies about 60 miles southwest of Tokyo, perfect for a daytrip from the city or a glimpse from a train ride, but this active volcano is also worthy of deeper exploration. Base yourself in the Fuji Five Lakes area to enjoy picture-perfect views at Arakurayama Sengen Park or from one of Lake Kawaguchiko's onsens (hot springs), and don't leave without sampling local hoto noodles.  

If you only have time to go to one beach in Thailand, make it Railay Beach, one of the world's most beautiful beaches . Located in the country's Krabi province, Railay Beach features glistening white sands and is surrounded by limestone rock formations (covered in leafy green vegetation) that jut out from the sea. If you're feeling adventurous, explore the area's natural wonders with a rock climbing excursion or go for a nighttime kayak trip to see bioluminescent plankton. As if this beach destination couldn't get more alluring, you're only able to reach it by boat. Daytrips from nearby Ao Nang are popular among travelers.

Siem Reap is the home of Angkor Wat, an ornate Buddhist temple built in the 12th century that is believed to be the largest religious monument in the world. The impressive landmark is just one of many must-sees within Cambodia's UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor. The complex also includes the equally detailed Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm Temple. Because of the immense popularity of Angkor (the site receives millions of visitors per year), you may want to travel during a shoulder month like March or November to avoid bumping elbows with fellow travelers.

Travel to the capital of Indian state Rajasthan to marvel at the "Pink City's" incredible architecture. Hawa Mahal, a pink sandstone palace that was modeled after Hindu god Krishna's crown, is Jaipur's biggest claim to fame. The property's astounding 953 honeycomb-patterned windows allowed the original ladies of the royal family to view the comings and goings of the Indian city without being seen. Other structures worth seeing are the Jaigarh Fort, Panna Meena ka Kund and Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that displays larger-than-life astronomical instruments.

Thailand's capital city is filled to the brim with eye-catching Hindu sites, nonstop nightlife and incredible Thai cuisine. Sacred sites like Wat Arun and Wat Pho are pockets of calm amidst Bangkok's skyscrapers. Shoppers can enjoy the Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the world's largest street markets, or venture to one of the floating markets located outside the city. While in Bangkok, grab as much grub as possible from the street stalls, and at night, you won't want to miss the lofty views from one of the many rooftop bars.

This national park is so loved and respected, its image is featured on China's paper currency. Guilin and Lijiang River National Park is located in the Guangxi region in the southeastern part of China. The Lijiang River runs about 50 miles from Guilin to Yangshuo, passing stunning landscapes and towering green karsts (eroded limestone) along the way. The best way to take in the otherworldly scenery is by boat cruise, though you may want to splurge on a luxury option since the trip can take up to five hours. Tourists who prefer to travel on their own time can also hike or bike along the river.

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Luang Prabang

Kuala Lumpur

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What 6 Months of Traveling in Southeast Asia Cost Me (2023 Update)

09/25/2022 by Kristin Addis 210 Comments

2022/23 update: Since first traveling to Southeast Asia in 2012, I’ve revisited the region nearly yearly, logging over 2.5 cumulative years. Over that time some prices have changed, and this post reflects those numbers.

Back in 2012, I spent a glorious 8 continuous months backpacking in Southeast Asia on a long-term traveler’s budget. This meant staying in dorms, taking local transport, eating street food, and generally traveling on a shoestring budget.

In 2016, I returned with a more middle-of-the-road budget, and since then, have experienced the luxurious side of the region as well.

Over that time I’ve learned that whether you’re on a tight budget or have a bit more money to play with, your money will take you further in Southeast Asia than almost anywhere else in the world. Today, let’s answer the question – what does it cost to travel in Southeast Asia?

Table of Contents

On a Budget

I personally spent $7,958 USD (without SCUBA diving – $6,095) for six months in Southeast Asia, with a month each in Cambodia, Laos, northern Thailand, southern Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. With flights and pre-trip expenses, it added up to $11,000. Adjusted for today’s inflation, that would be about $15k.

Some guide books will swear that $30/day or less is sufficient for traveling in Southeast Asia – this is generally not realistic.

So how much will you need to budget to travel in Southeast Asia in 2022/2023? I wanted to give you the most up-to-date budgeting guide, and make calculations even easier with the addition of 1-month or 3-month breakdowns. With my recent trips back to Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia, a bunch of online research and the help of a BMTM team member who lives in Southeast Asia, here’s how much you should budget for an extended trip in Southeast Asia:

Pre-trip Expenses:

1. travel insurance.

This is one of those costs that’s annoying, but necessary should the worst occur.  I went with World Nomads travel insurance which happened to be cheaper than any other company I could find for US citizens.

Saving tip: If you know for sure how much time you’ll be away, buying more months upfront is definitely cheaper than extending periodically.

2. Flights: $1500

Flights might be totally different depending on where you’re coming from, but I usually end up spending about this much including flights from home and any inter-country flights once in the region. The first time I went, I bought two one-way flights to get from LAX to Southeast Asia and back. In hindsight, this may not have been the cheapest way to travel (I could have saved a couple hundred dollars by booking round-trip), however, I was unsure of my dates and departure city. Sometimes, the penalties and restrictions on moving flights ends up making a RT flight too much of a hassle.

Other ways to save are by making your itinerary logical, so that you can take overland transport most of the time and don’t have to cover huge distances all at once.

Saving tip: To reduce your flight costs, subscribe to flight deals like this one , especially if you are flexible on the traveling dates. Flights are also cheaper during shoulder and rainy seasons. You can also travel hack like I do to save money. Here are my best tips on making your economy long haul flights more comfortable.

3. Immunizations: $350

You’re out of luck if you’re an American when it comes to travel immunizations, because chances are you’ll be covering them out of pocket. I personally elected not to take malaria pills nor get rabies vaccinations because of costs associated and unlikelihood of either becoming a real issue.

Saving tip: In order to get immunized the cheapest way possible, visit the travel specialist at your local county healthcare clinic, or get the immunizations at one of the Bangkok hospitals, which is the name of a premier hospital chain with multiple locations, in Thailand.

4. Travel Gear: $400

My backpack alone cost me over $200, but was worth every penny as nothing ever broke and I’m still using it over 10 years later!  I also invested in Pacsafe products  to keep everything protected, which I do not regret! Check my guide out for essential travel items.

Saving tip: Limit your luggage to carry-on only , so you can save on check-in luggage. Southeast Asia is generally hot and humid year-round, so you will only need thin and breathable clothes. Things are also incredibly affordable so you can always buy things you need as you go.

I am all about winging it when it comes to a backpacking trip, especially in Southeast Asia. However, if you are on a budget, it’s best to decide on your length of stay in each country to avoid unnecessary visa fees. Here’s a complete breakdown for most nations:

On-trip Expenses:

1. food: $10-$15/day.

Eating local delights and choosing street food when possible are the best ways to keep food costs down. The food tastes better and costs much less when it’s a local dish vs. a western dish. Why order a disappointing burger for $4 when you could have amazing steamed pork buns, papaya salad, coconut soup, pad thai (the list is endless!) in Thailand for less than $1? If you are staying at a place with a kitchen, you can get groceries for cheap from the local market and make your own food. Note that at certain places, like Bali and Kuala Lumpur, eating out can sometimes be cheaper than cooking.

Saving tip: Check with your hostel receptionist for local recommendations. Eat where the locals eat. Don’t fear street food. It’s cooked right in front of you and may even be fresher and less processed than food available at home.

2. Accommodation: $5-$30/day

This really varied depending on high/low season and country, and whether or not your’e willing to stay in dorms. Cambodia and Laos were the cheapest while Indonesia and Malaysia tended to be more expensive and provided less value for the money.

Here’s how much you should expect to pay per night, if you were to book a hostel bed a week in advance, and pick one that’s clean and strategically located:

3. Transportation: $2-$10/day

Land transportation is generally very cheap in all of Southeast Asia. Taking an intercity bus typically costs about $10. The cost of renting a bike is around $8-$15/day. On the islands like the Philippines, public boat trips take ages but they are extremely cheap at about $2/ride.

4. Activities:

Diving: If you are a diver, you will be thrilled to find many, many affordable diving spots all over Southeast Asia. Prices go as low as $100 for a 3D2N stay with 3 dive trips, though when I returned to Southeast Asia in 2018, I went on a glorious 11-day liveaboard diving trip in Raja Ampat which now costs over $6000.

Island Hopping: An island hopping trip with 5-6 stops for less than $30? Only in Southeast Asia. Your negotiation skills will decide how much you pay for your island hopping trip, so negotiate away, and if the price offered does not make sense to you, walk away – there will be 5 more agents down the same street. Generally, you should expect to pay about $15-$30 for a full-day (typically 9am-3pm) trip that you share with others. For a private trip, it will be over $100. Read my comparison of El Nido boat trips here.

Group Tours: A walking tour is often the best way to get to know a new city. There are many tip-based, free walking tours available, and some of them are actually really insightful and fun. It’s the best way to meet new friends too. Paid tours typically cost about $8-$15.

Hiking: I love that this activity is mostly free, save for the occasional entrance fee! Even some popular hikes, like Mount Bromo , can be affordable if you do it independently.

Cooking Class: This delicious activity runs about $20-$40 for a class. Consider the skills you will gain and the free food you will make. I’d say it’s pretty worth it, especially if you’ve fallen in love with the local cuisine.

Popular Tourist Sites: Angkor Wat costs a whopping $62 for a 3-day pass, getting to the sky bridge of the Petronas Twin Towers in Malaysia requires $20, and the beautiful Gardens by the Bay in  Singapore  also requires $20 to enter. Pick and choose what you’d really want to see and factor the entrance fees into your overall budget.

5. Shopping:

Toiletries: If you can, buy from the small local stores instead of the big chain drug stores. They are likely to cost less, and you get to help the locals out. If you want to stick with familiar brands like Pantene and Nivea, the cost is similar to what you’d pay back home, if not slightly cheaper. Local brands cost less.

Clothes: They’re so cheap and awesome! You can get a funky top for $3, cliche but must-have pair of elephant pants for less than $5, and a beautiful silk scarf for less than $8.

Outdoor gear: There are many “counterfeit” hiking gear options available in Vietnam and Indonesia for a fraction of the original cost, but the quality is lacking, too. You can get a legit waterproof jacket for as low as $12, but if you bring it from home, it’ll last longer.

First Name:

Why couldn’t I travel on only $30/day?

The $30/day benchmark does not take into account gear, insurance, flights, and immunizations.  It’s also easy to forget that things like soap, shampoo, toothpaste, sunscreen , batteries, adapters, mosquito repellent, medication, and visas all need to be periodically purchased on the road. The cost seems small but when budgeting only $30 for one day, $4 on a small bottle of shampoo can really add up.

The $30 benchmark is more than realistic, if not a little rich, when staying in one place for an extended period of time in one of the cheaper countries.  I was able to spend $3/night on accommodation and around $10/day on food and drink in Otres Beach, Cambodia , for example.  I didn’t spend a dime on activities because the beach was free.  But what about the days when I moved around?  What about the times I had to spend $40 on a visa, $9 on a bus ride, and $3 on a water taxi?  My budget was blown before I even bought food or a bed for the night.

What about the days that I wanted to visit Angkor Wat, go SCUBA diving, or jungle trekking?  An extremely low budget is only feasible if you hardly move around and never spend anything on activities, but why travel to the other side of the world only to miss out on these things?

If I had not SCUBA dived, climbed  Mt. Kinabalu , or gone trekking in Bukit Lawang or  Mt. Rinjani , I would have shaved over $3000 off of my trip, easily. I also never spent more than a week in any one place.  Had I moved more slowly, I could have saved a lot more.

More saving tips:

• All hope is not lost if you have a smaller budget to work with.  To keep costs low, use services like Couchsurfing for free accommodation. Not into it? Stay in dorms.  They are a great way to meet people and save some cash. House sitting is also a possibility though less so in Southeast Asia.
• Always travel local instead of by private or tourist coach, even if that means travel days are longer. If you’re rich in time but not in funds, this is the best way to do it.
• Eat local foods and abstain from alcohol. The biggest budget eater is partying, by far.  If you never buy drinks, you’ll literally save thousands .  Really, thousands!
• Use a debit card that doesn’t charge fees and refunds the ATM fees assessed by other banks. The only one I’m aware of is Charles Schwab.

For a country-specific budget guide on each place mentioned above, I go into more detail in each of these posts:

Malaysian Borneo

Philippines

How much do you usually spend on traveling?  Do you have any budget travel tips to share? 

Best Places in Southeast Asia for Solo Travelers

The ultimate southeast asia itinerary, what to pack for backpacking in southeast asia.

*Some links in this post are affiliate links for products and services we personally use and love. Any purchase you make through them supports us at no extra cost to you. Thanks so much!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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09/04/2013 at 9:18 am

Great resource! Thanks for sharing that with us!

Kristin says

09/04/2013 at 11:58 am

Glad you find it helpful!

Anonymous says

10/11/2017 at 2:03 pm

Thanks! Without the scuba diving, it would come right on budget with $30.45.

09/04/2013 at 9:19 am

I can’t wait for my trip to SE Asia after the World Cup in Brazil. I need to start saving!

Good luck! I’m loving how travel-focused we Gauchos are!

OCDemon says

09/04/2013 at 3:13 pm

I definitely thought this title was going to be more personal, like, the answer was going to be “MY SOUL.” Oh well though. Info is great too!

09/04/2013 at 3:53 pm

Hahahaha! Well that too! More like my heart.

TammyOnTheMove says

09/04/2013 at 9:50 pm

I think you budget is more realistic. If you are traveling in a country and not take part in certain tours, then you might as well not bother (i.e. Angkor Wat). Love Otres beach. So stunning!

Jo (The Blond) says

09/05/2013 at 3:46 am

I think $11,000 for 6 months travel, including everything is not bad at all considering that you did trekking, scuba diving and things like that.

09/05/2013 at 10:44 pm

Yeah and when one really adds in the extras like flights, immunizations, and insurance, that’s a pretty realistic budget.

Joanna says

09/05/2013 at 6:22 pm

I loved how you broke everything down! I get some frustrated looks when I can’t give one price tag for any one of my trips because it really depends on how you travel and what you do!

As much as it’s great to get advice on how to stay on budget, some experiences are priceless and would be a waste to pass while you’re RIGHT THERE.

Rika | Cubicle Throwdown says

09/05/2013 at 6:36 pm

Awesome breakdown!! I love how sometimes it’s just way better to separate the ‘real cost’ from the ‘I have an expensive scuba habit’ cost 🙂

09/05/2013 at 10:45 pm

Hahaha! Exactly. I had to state that hey, a lot of this was due to this habit I have of spending a lot of time under water. I’m a bit of a junkie. I know you can relate!

09/06/2013 at 2:47 am

Awesome 😀 , I always envy reading your blog :'(

I hope some day, I will take my own journey same like you do 😀

thak’s for the “VIRUS” hahahah

09/06/2013 at 11:22 pm

Awesome and you’re welcome 🙂

09/06/2013 at 6:38 am

Great breakdown. I wish I had the discipline to do that. Did you have any issues with the one way tickets and the airlines wanting you to have proof of departure from the destination country?

I have a way around that 😉

Chris Fitz says

05/11/2016 at 12:26 pm

I’m planning on traveling soon, and being only my 2nd time out of the country, don’t want to run into any unnecessary issues 🙂 what is your way around this?

Kayleigh says

09/06/2013 at 3:42 pm

Here I am sitting behind a desk bemoaning every hour of ridiculous corporate america. For the past year, I got away with playing the game my way. Was always on the ball with my work so I took advantage of countless travel opportunities and unpaid vaycay because I could care less about the money so long as I have enough to travel. Well for regulatory reasons I can no longer escape dreaded weeks, nor escape for an hour or 2 during the day for a yoga sesh when there is not work to do. 🙁 talk about killing my soul. Anyway, I can’t tell you how many people I tell about your blog and right you are, people just don’t get it. I guess taking the safe, traditional road (the road too highly traveled IMO) is what people feel comfortable with and so they stick with what they know. So here I am, trying to balance holding a job, saving the dough until I can take off on the trip of a lifetime! So glad I stumbled upon your site-absolutely love it!

09/06/2013 at 11:26 pm

Aww thanks so much for your comment. Hang in there, you’ll be back on the road and it’ll all be worth it.

Michelle | Lights Camera Travel says

09/08/2013 at 5:22 am

Thanks for sharing Kristin! It’s always helpful to see these posts. I generally budget the same, $1000 for ground expenses, and things like flights, visas, expensive activities (i.e scuba diving) on top and that usually works for me!

09/08/2013 at 11:56 am

1k is a great budget for the extra stuff.

Arianwen says

09/08/2013 at 10:36 pm

This is a really useful overview! I’m pretty bad at keeping a close eye on exactly what I’ve spent so when people ask me about my trip to South America, it’s a very rough estimate! Nice one keeping track!

09/09/2013 at 4:18 pm

I had a lot of going back through my bank account withdrawals to do!

Turner says

09/09/2013 at 10:00 pm

Not too bad. I would be about spending $30 a day too, as per Lonely Planet suggestions, that is if all that weed and hookers didnt get in way. Sigh.

09/11/2013 at 12:41 pm

It’s the ping pong shows and lady boys that really kill my budget.

Morgan says

09/10/2013 at 9:54 am

This is amazing! Thanks for putting it together. I’m also an American and just started vaccinations – the rabies and japanese encephalitis will probably be put on the back burner due to prices (It’s outrageous!). Do you think you went the correct route skipping those?

09/10/2013 at 12:31 pm

I couldn’t even find Japanese Encephalitis when I was getting my vaccinations. I understand it’s kind of important if you’re spending a large chunk of time in SE Asia though, as it’s a pretty serious disease. You can definitely find it in Thailand, although I’m not sure how much it would cost. I personally don’t have that immunization and, well, I’m still alive and kicking!

09/10/2013 at 3:05 pm

Great story and thank you for laying out your expenses like that. Helps those of us who are looking into long trips some very valuable info

09/10/2013 at 8:13 pm

Glad you found it helpful!

Jennifer says

09/11/2013 at 1:35 am

I love your breakdown and it’s really realistic. Just did the same and I’ve come to pretty much the same conclusions. It’s easy to be on the cheap in SEA, but not everywhere and all the extras add up really fast!

09/11/2013 at 11:12 am

Thank you! Yes the extras do add up.

Joey Rana says

09/12/2013 at 1:14 pm

please visit the philippines. plenty of places to visit and part of south east asia. many travelers often neglect the philippines and hope you can make an exception.

09/12/2013 at 8:20 pm

I will. Next year!

09/24/2013 at 1:53 am

Brilliant post, thank you so much! My trip is rapidly approaching and this has really helped.

09/25/2013 at 7:55 am

Hello! I came across your blog and found it really inspiring! I am planning a 3 week trip to HK and maybe Thailand in October. I will attempt to blog my journey and looking for blogs to follow as well as increasing my number of followers so feel free to explore and please join my site while you are at it!

09/25/2013 at 1:15 pm

Thanks Vera! HK is awesome

Simon Lee says

10/08/2013 at 12:00 am

Hi Kristin, Dropping by for the first time. I am from Malaysia.

I am surprised that you spent the most money for accommodation in Borneo as there are quite a number of budget accommodation in the area.

Did you checked out some of the islands off the coast of Semporna? Widely known as a scuba diver paradise and i am sure you will like it as diving is what fascinating you:)

Cheers, Simon

10/09/2013 at 8:08 am

Well, it had more to do with the fact that I had been spending closer to $5 in most other countries. Yes, Borneo has budget accommodation, especially in the cities, but it’s not as cheap as other places in Southeast Asia – Malaysia in general is not as cheap. I went diving in Sipadan and it was amazing!

Manfred says

11/27/2013 at 8:44 pm

We just finished 6-7 months around SE Asia as a couple and spent an average of just under $30 each. We started and finished in Bangkok though, so didn’t have the additional cost of flights to/from SE Asia. We also didn’t get any immunizations, as our doctors here didn’t recommend any. We also didn’t need to buy any travel gear, as we both already had suitcases. I think this would be the case with most travelers. We wrote a book about our experiences if anyone is interested. See our blog.

11/27/2013 at 8:51 pm

Oooh Yikes I would DEFINITELY suggest everyone at least get the Hepatitis vaccines and Tetanus. Very important!

12/25/2013 at 4:26 pm

hi, i wanna go to Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia. but i am confused how to get a visa to Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia. can you help me out?

12/25/2013 at 10:41 pm

It really depends on where you’re from! You should check your country’s travel advisory website for more info. If you’re from the US , Canada, or EU, you can get a visa on arrival for all of those countries.

12/26/2013 at 12:19 am

What country are you from. If from US, UK, etc, you don’t need visa for Malaysia or Singapore, and can get visa on arrival for Indonesia. For Indonesia you need to have a flight booked to leave the country before arriving.

12/27/2013 at 5:17 am

That’s helpful info because I actually got a two month visa for Indonesia prior to going there while I was in Kuala Lumpur. I was told I needed proof of an onward flight but they never asked, and I didn’t have one!

01/20/2014 at 8:24 am

Maybe it’s different if you have a visa in advance. Also, sometimes people need onward flights and sometimes they don’t check. But I know people that haven’t be allowed on their flight because they didn’t have onward tickets. I wish they had proper rules, but it’s all a bit hit and miss.

01/20/2014 at 8:32 am

You don’t *really* need anything booked onward. There are ways around that but I know what you’re saying. Thailand and Indonesia are often that way and the Philippines is as well.

01/19/2014 at 11:17 pm

This is awesome as I’m planning my next adventures. Im currently in New Zealand but i just wondered in which currency was your budget for Asia?

01/20/2014 at 8:15 am

Ah I should note that on the post. USD 🙂

01/21/2014 at 9:26 pm

Looking to do a 6 week trip this Summer with a friend starting with a week in Thailand and ending with a week in the Philippines. Unfortunately can’t visit every country you described – did you have any personal favorites or must-sees!? My friend and I are both scuba certified as well – any great scuba spots would be much appreciated! Thanks, love the website!

01/25/2014 at 9:00 am

Sipadan in Borneo is the best diving I’ve done. You must book that kind of far in advance. Komodo in Indonesia is also amazing but the current is strong and you need at least AOW certification. I loved Cambodia and Laos but in 6 weeks I wouldn’t try to rush too much. A lot of people do and they miss a lot. Northern Thailand is great!

03/09/2014 at 5:26 pm

This was a really helpful post. Thank you for all the details. I’m trying to decide where to visit on my way back from Australia to the UK. Cambodia and Vietnam are looking like they might come out top, although I really want to see the Philippines too! I see this trip extending…!

03/09/2014 at 6:13 pm

I just did a budget post on the Philippines and it’s more expensive than I thought it would be. I have one on Vietnam going up today so check that one out! I really loved Vietnam!

03/19/2014 at 8:53 am

I love your helpful breakdown, but I do think that hostels eat up a lot of the travel budget, so I almost always try to couchsurf or stay somewhere as a Workaway volunteer whenever I travel in Asia or Europe. I think hostels are my last resort because I’ve had a couple negative experiences in hostels, but also, when you CouchSurf (which doesnt always mean you sleep on a couch btw!) or stay as a volunteer with a local, first of all, it’s FREE–plus you get free meals as a Workaway volunteer, and your CS host may also invite you to join him/her or their family for a meal or two. And second of all, you are gaining a truly authentic experience and perspective of the lifestyle, and you have a local to help you and offer you excellent advice for your stay! 🙂

03/20/2014 at 7:55 pm

Great suggestions and agreed, especially in more expensive countries. I’ve couch surfed in Europe and in China.

Sidney says

03/23/2014 at 2:36 pm

Thanks this helped alot!

03/23/2014 at 8:15 pm

I’m currently planning my trip for this summer, and just wanted to say this post/site is extremely helpful! I just got all my vaccines last week. Japanese Encephalitis set me back $500 alone. Yikes! I’m now on to gear. Taking your advice w/ a 40L pack. As for travel insurance, I just got a quote online from World Nomad that says it’ll be $386 for 6mo. coverage. Why was yours so much more expensive? Was it the timing? Or maybe $793 is for a full 10 mo?

03/24/2014 at 12:54 am

I got the adventure plan which covers SCUBA diving, etc., and that was for the full ten months as well. I wish I had just bought it all at once upfront because it’s actually cheaper that way. Oh well! You live and learn 🙂

Allen Espy says

03/24/2014 at 6:04 am

I did a similar trip in 2000. 6 months, about eight countries. Semi-backpacking. $12,000

03/28/2014 at 9:08 pm

Did it cost money to get visas’ to these countries? Were visa’s even required if you’re not working?

03/28/2014 at 9:24 pm

Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia are free. Cambodia ($20), Laos ($35 but depends on where you’re from), and Indonesia are all visa on arrival but they cost money. Vietnam must be procured before you land and it’s expensive. I paid $20 and then $45 for a stamping fee.

04/21/2014 at 11:13 pm

Hey Kristin – thanks for sharing this! I will say that traveling as a couple makes the cost a lot better. Rob and I did six months in SE Asia and with all flights and a lot of scuba, we came out to a bit over $30/day per person. We always stayed in private rooms with private bathrooms, although we did do a fair amount of haggling.

When you add in shots and flights to Asia, the costs do go up. But that’s what frequent flier miles and pre trip health insurance are for :o)

05/05/2014 at 1:17 am

Splitting taxis is a huge help. The months that I did most of my traveling with friends were definitely cheaper.

Christopher K says

05/02/2014 at 12:38 pm

Hey Kristin!

I’m getting ready for my trip to SEAsia in mid-June, arriving in Bangkok on a one-way ticket as well, and I just wanted to ask you about your experience flying with such a ticket.

Apparently one of the requirements for Thailand’s free 30-day tourist visa is to have proof of “an onward or return airline ticket within 30-days of arriving.” I’m planning on flying to Bangkok and staying there until my 30 days expire, at which point I’ll heading to Cambodia –> Vietnam –> Laos via LAND transport however (i’m planning on buying my bus and train tickets when I get there).

My question is: Did you happen to have another airline ticket (out of thailand within 30 days) purchased and ready to show to the immigration officials and/or airline when you arrived? How’d it go for you? Do you think the airline could bar me from getting on the plane if I show up to the airport in new york with nothing but the one-way ticket to bangkok and my passport?? :S

It’s just one of my scruples at this moment!

Hope that all made sense! Thanks so much!

05/05/2014 at 12:55 am

Sometimes the agent at the check in counter will ask for onward travel proof and if you don’t have it they won’t let you check in. I’d suggest editing an old e-ticket from a different airline with a future travel date and printing that to bring with you.

05/21/2014 at 3:03 pm

Thailand also has (or had 5 years ago) cheap rooms. I got a single or double bed room for 3-4€ outside of bangkok on different occasions. I plan for round trip with Thailand, Vietnam and Laos now and it is great to hear that I won’t be completely broke at the end of it. 🙂 Also one hint: An Indonesian friend showed me some Indonesian booking sites and they seem a lot cheaper than the American/European ones. Try tiket.com for instance.

Barbora says

05/28/2014 at 9:28 pm

Your website is freaking awesome! No nonsens lifestyle generic scribbling, but actual useful practical advice. Big thank you!

05/31/2014 at 3:09 am

Wow. THANK YOU!

matthew says

06/01/2014 at 2:05 am

I just got home from a 18 month trip all over SE Asia, Singapore 3x, Malaysia 6x, Indonesia 1x, Thailand 2x, Philippines 1x, and did the whole 18 months on $8200 USD including my separate 1 way flights back and forth from the US. It helps to make friends on the way, lots of free food and places to sleep.

06/02/2014 at 4:13 am

Couchsurfing and staying with friends definitely helps a lot. I tend to buy meals or pay my share or bring a gift, though, which does increase my costs. To me, it seems like the right thing to do.

06/22/2014 at 6:00 pm

Hey, I love your post and have found it particularly useful whilst planning my own trip, I’ve got a question about currency.. How did you handle money over there? Did you have lots of different currency on you at all times or did you literally just withdraw money in each country when you needed it? Also, how did you cross from each country to the next and have you got rough prices for them? Thank you 🙂

06/23/2014 at 2:45 am

I just withdrew money when I needed it. I crossed overland for the most part and typically you want to pay visa fees in US Dollars so always have some of those on you.

06/23/2014 at 11:08 am

Travelling is enjoying the different food: should be careful as paying too low …you might be fed with rat meat instead of pork… especially in poor country, meat is still expensive. If the meal is a buck, I’m not sure it’s pork or rat….? A 3 to 4 dollar meal should be very satisfying… if your budget could not afford that then I was wondering what would you enjoy in your travel? My idea is to save a bit more before your trip and really enjoy the time there …. if you find yourself penny-pinching then wait for another season and build those extra bucks…The worst thing is to see something that your friends enjoying while you couldn’t afford.

Wd you sleep in a place where rats came out at night to say hi? It is much more enjoyable to stay at a 5.00 or 10.00 room and enjoy the night rather than sleepless because of those vermins….

06/23/2014 at 5:43 pm

That’s absolutely ridiculous. You can see the meat before you eat it, usually raw, at the street stall. I think we all know that beef ribs look nothing like rat meat, and it’s possible to just go vegetarian as well. I also eat food locals eat and take pride in making. It’s insulting to them to claim they’re cooking rat’s meat.

$1 streetside soup in Vietnam (with a giant pork shank in it, I might add) is delicious.

Lastly, most rooms I stayed in that year were around $5-$10 per night. I now often spend a bit more but I wanted to see if it could be done for $30/day back then.

Kaylin says

07/24/2014 at 5:28 pm

After doing some number crunching, it looks like you spent about $34/day not including the scuba (which wouldn’t necessarily be something alot of people would do on such a trip) or the flights (which most people don’t include in their daily budget). So really it’s not so far off the $30/day recommendation! Either way, this is a great article showing real expenses on your trip. I have been to Thailand and Cambodia before for 2 weeks, but I want to go back and do a much longer trip to more countries in the next couple years, so I will definitely keep this budget in mind 🙂 You are so right that not drinking saves SOOOOO much money. I feel like half my budget in Cambodia was for those $5 buckets LOL.

07/29/2014 at 5:27 am

That’s true, but I think a lot of people have one or two expensive activities they just really want to try, so it’s worth budgeting that in. Cutting out drinking would actually make it much cheaper than $30/day considering where I was staying and the types of transport I was taking.

07/30/2014 at 4:04 am

Hey Kristin,

Great blog!! I was wondering if you had any advice on obtaining visas on your travels?? I have a one way ticket to thailand this upcoming November, and I was honestly just going to wing it as far as determining my length of stay in certain countries/areas. Any help would be appreciated!!

07/30/2014 at 7:36 am

I did the same. Most countries, except for Vietnam, you can just get a visa on arrival (depending on which country you’re from, of course), and it can be pretty easy to extend.

Ian Limbonis says

08/10/2014 at 11:12 am

Im on my 111th day today, and so far spent <1500$. Tracking all my expemses daily to meet the least possible expensiture, though i must say coffee, cigarette, and seldom beers can help lower this doen further.

08/11/2014 at 1:05 am

Wow you’ve done a great job then!

08/11/2014 at 1:59 am

Not as much as how you organized your expenses ;-). Im glad how quite basic i’m becoming

Michael says

08/25/2014 at 11:23 pm

Wow thats cheap.. good for you!

09/02/2014 at 10:54 pm

I tried! Could do it even cheaper and certainly more expensively as well.

Paul Durano says

08/27/2014 at 9:11 pm

If your in Cebu, Philippines by mid Jan – May 2015, I help you find a place for $20 per day. Living with local family.

Samantha says

08/29/2014 at 4:45 pm

Hey Kristin, HUGE fan of your blog and the advice you give. You have really helped me out as I plan for my backpacking trip to SEA, Australia, and New Zealand (leaving in 65 days!!–but who’s counting?!). Quick question: did you get a credit card for this trip? I opened up a Charles Schwab account for the ATM card, but I wanted to get a credit card with 0 foreign transaction fees as well, just as a precaution. Do you have any banker recommendations? :). Thanks again!

09/02/2014 at 10:43 pm

Glad to have your readership! I use a Capital One Venture card and would also suggest having some kind of back up as well. Airline mileage cards also often are transaction-fee-free.

09/18/2014 at 1:01 pm

Hi Kristin,

For your southeast asia travels you got immunizations for Hepatitis A and Tetnus?

Did you get any for: Fly or Typhoid or Hepatitis B or Japanese Encephalitis or Rabies?

Also, you mentioned you chose not to take medication for Malaria? Any concern why?

My mother wants me to inoculated for every conceivable transmittable/contagious disease but to save both money and side effects I want focus on the truly most necessary vaccinations.

Thank you! Haley

09/18/2014 at 10:21 pm

I got Tetanus and Hep A, already had B, as well as Typhoid. Did not get rabies and Japanese Encephalitis wasn’t even available at my clinic. I have never taken anti-malaria medication. I’m in that part of the world for way too long for that.

Stephanie Be says

10/03/2014 at 10:58 pm

I just wrote an article on tips for Thailand, and one of my tips was that it is NOT as cheap as people make it out to be. I couldn’t agree more with the misconception that it’s “easy” to live on a shoe string budget in developing countries. There are many costs, and chances are that most travelers WANT to experience things like an elephant reservation park or Angkor Wat.

Nice to hear it from you too!

10/04/2014 at 6:14 am

Southern Thailand is definitely more expensive than the middle and north as well!

Franca says

10/04/2014 at 1:33 am

I forgot how cheap SEA can be and after being traveling around Europe for more than 1 year, it seems like a dream being able to spend so little and still enjoying yourself so much! We spent a lot less than you have, but mainly because we didn’t do the activities you did and we took some extra vaccinations (rabies for instance because we volunteered in dog shelters) and malaria pills in some areas. Sometimes I miss these countries, maybe we should go back and explore the countries we haven’t been yet. There is too much of the world I want to see, my list gets longer instead of shorter 🙂

10/04/2014 at 6:13 am

Same here. I am over in Europe now, thankful that I now have a bigger budget but definitely do still love SEA, both for how cheap it can be and how amazing it can be.

Victoria says

10/04/2014 at 5:12 am

Definitely agreed $30 isn’t realistic if you want to see and do things, although I think as an American you have it way worse! In the UK immunisations are free, I go to TK Maxx for my travel gear so we’re looking at maybe £30-40 on a bag and then flights cost me about £400-£500 RETURN if I don’t care what day I travel on. When I did Phuket for a month it cost $400 US for my room ($13 per day) and then I spent roughly $10-$20 on food and I literally wasn’t doing ANYTHING except working on my computer and going to the beach. So really $30 is only do-able if you decide to do the ‘living somewhere’ option and do nothing.

10/04/2014 at 6:10 am

Definitely true. Moving around is expensive due to traveling costs, but living in one place or moving very slowly makes things much more affordable.

10/08/2014 at 8:00 pm

Hey Kristin, We shall be traveling Indonesia in June and we wondered if you had any tips on where to go? we figured we’d stop off in Bali (its the cheapest island to fly to) plus my friend works there as an instructor and I’m going to take my DM course there. Other than that we’ve seen that Sumatra and Flores look good, but we don’t really know anything about them. Also, how expensive is it to take a tour with the orang-utans? i’ve looked online and it said 20,000Rp… that seems pretty cheap to me, does that sound about right? Finally, how expensive is it to island hop? we traveled south thailand via boats and busses and it work out pretty cheap but will it be the same in Indo?

Thanks for your advice and your amazing travel blog! Keep up the awesome work! Emily 🙂

10/09/2014 at 11:41 am

Definitely I wrote a lot about it in the Indonesia https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/category/destinations/southeast-asia/indonesia/

Here’s the info on Orangutans https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/bukit-lawang-trekking/

Here’s info on island hopping local style https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/how-to-get-from-flores-to-lombok/

whitney says

10/16/2014 at 2:28 am

what backpack did you buy for $200 and what do you do for income (or has the initial funds from liquidating your assets not run out yet)? also do you still maintain and contribute to a retirement plan? lastly, i assume travel insurance makes up for not having employer sponsored health benefits? i too am a banker and im wondering how i can make this a reality for myself.

10/16/2014 at 8:04 am

Yes I contribute to a retirement account, which was pretty heavily invested in with my old job. I make money off of this blog and freelance writing. Check out my series on how to start a travel blog if that interests you! https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/category/travel-prep/how-to-start-a-travel-blog/

11/05/2014 at 4:04 pm

i wanna backpack for 6- 8 months in Asia , and is like 10.000 dollar enough ??

11/06/2014 at 4:07 am

Well you can see how I laid out my expenses here, so I’d say that no, it is not, if you add in things like flights, gear, and insurance. It is if you don’t party much and don’t do expensive activities and stay in dorms, eat street food, and take local transport. It boils down to your way of traveling.

TeachingTravel says

11/24/2014 at 8:25 am

You really missed out by not spending as much time in Vietnam! Vietnam is extremely cheap. However I didn’t spend as much time in Cambodia, this time i’ll make sure to check out the beaches! Last time I just hit the temples of Cambodia and skipped right through!

Also traveling with someone else would really bring these costs down!

11/24/2014 at 8:53 am

I ended up returning to Southeast Asia and spending a month in Vietnam after writing this post. Traveling with someone else would definitely cut the costs down but I’m a solo traveler and that’s the focus of this blog 🙂

Claire says

08/28/2016 at 1:08 am

I’m so curious, why and what would all the reasons traveling with a partner cut the costs down??

09/07/2016 at 3:24 pm

You split cabs and private rooms

Muzammil says

12/17/2014 at 2:11 pm

Hey! Amazing article and love your website!

Can you please let me know how many flights did you have to take in your 10 months Oceania & SE Asia trip? And what were those flights?

Thanks! Muzammil

12/17/2014 at 3:19 pm

I probably took around 6-8. If you just stayed in Southeast Asia you can do almost all of it overland. You can get very cheap last minute ones on local airlines and on Air Asia. I really like Bangkok Airways in Thailand, and Tiger is also good.

12/17/2014 at 3:26 pm

Thanks for the response! When you say overland, are you referring to taking ferries/boats between countries like Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, etc.?

12/18/2014 at 2:14 am

You could do that but it takes a VERY long time and in that case I’d just fly.

12/29/2014 at 9:18 pm

Wow , I really want to do this how do you find all the places to sleep and not end up paying for hotels

12/31/2014 at 12:50 pm

Stay in hostels/guesthouses and especially dorms to save money.

Lesh @ NOMADasaurus says

01/03/2015 at 9:48 pm

What an awesome breakdown Kristin. I know what you mean about $30 a day. Sometimes it happens but most of the time not. There are so many awesome activities to do all over South East Asia and we were not missing out on them. Love your tips for cheap travel. We love eating locally and traveling locally too. It is not just cheap but such a great experience. We have met some wonderful people on some journeys. We have been taking a budget daily so we can keep track of our spendings. The fact it is there on paper has really helped us budget. Over spend one day, lay low the next day. It is crazy how much alcohol can add up too and how many stories I have heard of people spending all their money partying and have not enough to see the rest of the country. The country always comes first for us. Thank you.

01/04/2015 at 2:04 pm

Thanks Lesh. I definitely agree it’s better to buy experiences than beers, but if you can do both, even better! 😉

01/04/2015 at 6:29 pm

Hey Kristin, great breakdown – I’ve managed on $30 in Asia, but on the basis it was covering food and accommodation only and no sightseeing. Also, these kind of simple ‘figures’ just don’t work in places like Singapore, Tokyo, etc. It annoys me when I see guides/books/etc. encouraging this as an ‘option’ because there must be so few people who manage on something like $30 a day and still get to see and do everything they wanted! Bring more – see and do more.

01/05/2015 at 4:52 am

True Singapore is a lot more costly and I actually haven’t been there yet. If any guide books are suggesting $30/day is doable in Tokyo I’d toss that right out the window!

01/12/2015 at 6:26 am

How am I only just finding this blog? Good stuff

01/13/2015 at 1:23 am

Aw thank you.

01/25/2015 at 10:42 pm

Never tried this myself, but I would imagine $30 (3000 yen) in Tokyo is possible. Well, I am in Tokyo now working (I am from Canada) but will travel abroad in November.

3000 yen breakdown possibility (if not relied on heavy tourist travel-style) – of course, it all depends on what you want to do that day; the list of what to do is endless:

1. Yamanote Line (most of the touristy places are on this line): 730 (day pass; it is even less that if you want to stay in places that require less than 730 yen) 2. Food ~1000 a day IF cheap, healthy, and convenient food places (i.e. Sukiya) –> much less required if rice balls and other smaller foods bought at convenience stores or McDonalds (100 yen options) 3. Accommodation – Couchsurfing! (0 yen) 4. Others (museum fee, drinking, whatever you choose)

Total: 1730yen plus additional

I do not know how much travel insurance is needed. Nor visa. However, when sites that say $30/day is possible, I do not believe that cost includes visa, insurance, etc. I think it means just travel expenses (food, accomodation, and such).

And for visa, I have never bought it before. But according to my Japanese passport Visa requirement for travel in Europe, I can travel in Europe for 3 (or 6) months at maximum without visa, so I am sure Visa is not required if less than 3 (or 6) months?

01/27/2015 at 7:28 am

Thanks for that! I had no idea it could be so cheap since Japan is always thought of as so expensive. You can get a VOA for fewer than 3 months in Europe, yes. You can only stay for 3 out of every 6 months.

02/06/2015 at 1:55 am

I went for a month in December/January of last year and found it expensive, probably because I wasn’t able to find as many dorms and it was over the holidays which is an understandably expensive time.

sashlah says

02/22/2015 at 8:06 am

We are spending around 15/20$ a day in two in North Thailand. We rented a huge house with 3 bedrooms for little more than 150/month. We always cook at home buying stuff at the market.

02/23/2015 at 1:40 am

Northern Thailand is really nice and cheap. Cooking at home is cheaper than street food? That’s my favorite part of Thailand!

02/23/2015 at 9:11 pm

Thanks for the great advice! One thing to add, when I was traveling for 6 months through Western Europe, I got charged about $5 per ATM withdrawal– I have Chase. BUT, I called and asked them, and kind of sweet talked them, into refunding me the charges! It wasn’t a lot since I went to the ATM as few times as possible but every dollar counts!

02/23/2015 at 10:16 pm

I’d suggest Charles Schwab which refunds all ATM fees and doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. I really think they’re the best option. Great customer service, too. Wow I sound like an ad but honestly I love them.

01/14/2016 at 6:05 am

do you by any chance know how this works for Europeans? Can, say a Belgian guy, get an Charles Schab account? 🙂 Have you met Europeans troughout your trip who managed to solve or eliminate these fees?

01/16/2016 at 1:01 pm

I believe Schwab is only in the US, these are some good suggestions: http://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/avoid-paying-bank-fees-traveling/

03/07/2015 at 6:08 pm

First off I want to say I’m a huge fan of your blog! Your posts are always great and so interesting! I’m very grateful for this post in particular. I’m considering homeschooling my son for a year and spending the time traveling SE Asia. So I have a few questions for you: what is the point of travelers insurance? Is it health insurance? We have health insurance and I cover my electronics through my homeowners insurance (it’s very cheap btw) so I don’t think I need travelers insurance, right? Did any areas seems unsafe at all? My son is 13 so he’s not a baby but I still don’t want to put him directly in danger of course. When you reference “dorms” is that the same thing as hostels? What is high season in SE Asia? What language is most widely spoke? I was thinking about spending a few weeks in one spot to take courses on a foreign language. Anything else you think I should know? Thanks and keep up the great work!

03/11/2015 at 7:03 am

Hey Kristin! Depends on which country you’re in regarding which language is spoken the most widely. In Thailand that would be Thai, Malay in Malaysia, etc. However, most places you’ll find you’ll be fine communicating as locals speak at least some English and much communication isn’t verbal anyways, as I’ve learned through the years. I also don’t think a few weeks is enough time to learn much of a language, though I wouldn’t want to discourage you!

As for insurance, you can check if your health insurance covers you abroad. Mine didn’t. I have travel insurance so that I’m always covered and if I need to be flown home for medical care, I’m still covered. Hope that helps.

03/11/2015 at 9:35 am

Yes that helps a lot! Thank you!

05/07/2015 at 7:40 am

I find your post realistic! And refreshing knowing that I’m not able to always stick to $30/day either. Currently traveling in Northern Thailand and doing my best with level of comfort, while staying cheap. Probably the biggest money saver as you mention is indeed when I go a week or so without drinking. 🙂 Thanks for the honest post and keeping up with your site. Inspiring!

05/07/2015 at 7:32 pm

Thanks Erin! Yep the biggest budget killer is alcohol, even though each drink individually is cheap, it adds up!

05/29/2015 at 5:41 am

Awesome! I got to understand on how much should I be needing and what do I really want before exploring outside my country in SEA!

Very informative post! 😀

Liem @ Holiday Bays says

06/20/2015 at 10:28 pm

Hey Kristin, when will you visit Vietnam? We can go for coffee and eat some local food. I live in the Mekong Delta area. Love your blog by the way! 🙂

06/22/2015 at 4:10 am

I spent one month there in 2014 but would love to return. I love the food and the coffee so much!

07/18/2015 at 3:40 pm

Good write-up

The Wife & I traveled SE Asia for 3 months last year and are hooked! On seeing more. We did things a different way financially so are kinda setup now but it meant foregoing this earlier on. But also means work is almost optional now. We spent about $8k across 7 Countries and that’s staying in Hotels ranging from $50-$100 per night. Everything is cheap there and most things are just so much better. They live a good life and we now see that Western world has it all wrong

07/19/2015 at 2:16 am

Can definitely see where you’re coming from with that. Wouldn’t say they all live a good life though. It’s easy for us to do so because we were born with privilege, a passport that provides mobility, and the ability to earn in a strong currency.

Jasmine says

08/09/2015 at 6:49 am

My main question in all of this was how did you go about traveling to these countries once you started in Thailand? Are there cheap (significantly cheap) flights available from one to the next or are you able to cross the border in a local bus? *I’m trying to convince my friends of a southeast Asia tour and the only way I can persuade them is if this factor is relatively inexpensive lol.*

08/10/2015 at 5:01 am

Hi Jasmine, I generally crossed overland though I flew to Malaysian Borneo and did a few flights in Indonesia as well. For the most part busses and trains are the method of getting around, and they’re cheap! So are Air Asia flights so I’d suggest signing up for their newsletter and taking advantage of sales. I scored a flight for $18 with them previously.

Charmaine says

09/30/2015 at 12:52 pm

Thanks for all your tips! I’m looking to do some backpacking soon and one thing I’m concern about are bank fees! You mentioned Charles Schwab doesn’t have any fees, can you elaborate more on this? Were you always banking with them or only as a travel account? Is it only available to US citizens (I’m from Canada).

10/12/2015 at 6:38 am

Hi Charmaine, I don’t know if it’s available in Canada but I don’t think so. This post is a pretty good resource: http://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/avoid-paying-bank-fees-traveling/

Izy Berry says

11/26/2015 at 2:30 pm

Is not that expensive !! Incredible is very economic

KeepCalmAndWander says

12/27/2015 at 7:44 am

Going back to Cambodia soon and I hope the country is still cheap! 🙂

12/27/2015 at 1:10 pm

It’s still cheap.

Christian Vielma says

12/29/2015 at 10:54 am

Nice post! My wife and I traveled this year around Asia, including SEA. We also find the $30 limit not very realistic unless you stay for long time and live more like a local (preparing your own food instead of restaurant)

12/31/2015 at 4:18 am

I feel like eating street food is superior to cooking your own when traveling in Asia. It’s fresh, cheap, and lots of it is healthy.

Darren Bush says

01/11/2016 at 11:06 pm

Hey Kristine, I just want to thank you. As your blog is super helpful for me. I will keep all your points in my mind as i am thinking of visiting few countries in southeast asia.

Oliver Mortimer says

01/13/2016 at 6:07 am

Great article, Myself and my girlfriend are travelling on the 10th of February for 167 days. We will be going to Thailand Laos Malaysia Indonesia and Cambodia. We will be taking with us just over 9000 euro and have our flights booked travel insurance bought and vaccinations done.

I’m wondering if you think this will be enough money? We would like to see and do as much as we can and will be mostly eating street food but will be staying in our own rooms and not in dorms.

01/13/2016 at 8:41 am

If you take local transport and don’t party too much it could work. You might have to stay in dorms sometimes but the main thing that eats a budget quickly is partying for sure.

01/14/2016 at 3:25 am

Thanks for the reply. We’re not going over to party, so hopefully we’ll be ok with the budget we have….

robbie says

01/20/2016 at 4:03 pm

is it best to book hostels and such before or just go on the go

01/22/2016 at 3:27 pm

I generally do it on the go unless it’s a holiday in which case they can book out for months ahead of time.

Natasja Trujillo says

01/25/2016 at 6:54 pm

Love your blog. What would you say this budget would be for 2 people?

01/28/2016 at 10:49 am

That was just for me. For two double the food costs and add for busses and flights too. I stayed in dorms as well so I paid a single amount but for a private room or a dorm for two you’ll pay double. It’s not entirely double the cost but I’d budget as much for cushion.

yuyazz says

02/03/2016 at 8:03 am

Hello i’m sorry but i really need to write on maximum english blogs because after 6 months of travel in South East Asia, it is my duty to prevent the maximum person from countries such england or australia Everywhere we went, thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Philippines, Burma, Malaysia, and Laos, we encountered the same type of travelers, loud, arrogant, completely disrespectful of other travelers and local poeple or places..A on several occasions we had to change guesthouse to find a more quiet place, especially away from you english people. You have a tendency to shout rather than speak, to make noise, in couple or group, always acting as if you were alone in earth..Even if you know that the owner of the guest house sleeps just next door, even if his childrens have to sleep to go at school the next morning, it will not matter, you continue until late at night yelling like pigs, in total disrespect of your neighbors .I therefore ask you this: learn to respect your neighbors, cease to believe you higher because the whole world must understand you and speak your language when you do not speak any other language except yours..the local bad feel towards overseas is due in large part to your behavior..Vang Vieng but the Thai islands are the best examples of your behavior incredibly bad.English women love to put almost naked, where the local dress head to toe in all sacred places or elsewhere, you English women you absolutely not respect the modesty of local people, in bikini everywhere..we thing that you really behave badly, the whole world hates you for that, but you don’t care and continue..if ever someone notice it to you, you laugh..You, English, you must to know it, please, SHUT UP, and respect local cultures and your neighbors..your culture based on easy friendship, nudity in public places, and “shouting” must stop!!!.Please be respectful and forget your huge egos!!! … you are the shame of Western europe to abroad …you have to know and to behave in consequence please..if some of you think that i’m exagerating, just look and listen, everywhere in South asia, and certainly everywhere in the world..you are in holidays, ok..but maybe your neighbors or the local people around you are NOT in holidays!!! -so 1 : be quiet -2 : stop wearing bikinis and show your muscles to the whole world.. if people comme here to read these comments, be adise that you are not really appreciated in the world…especially because of young travellers who just care about themselves, and just think about making party… I had no bad idea about english or autralian before, not at all..now after six month travelling, i just hate you, and can’t stand anymore your fucking behaviour..

02/05/2016 at 6:41 am

I wasn’t going to approve because it’s racist this but then again, there are some nuggets of wisdom in here. People who travel elsewhere only to behave badly and disrespect the locals but partying like crazy are the scourge of Southeast Asia and a big reason why I tried to get away from the Thai islands and find other places that weren’t ruined yet.

Also, I’m not English. Not Australian either. Your problem is with the bad eggs, not the entire race of people. Calm down.

Brennan says

02/07/2016 at 7:04 pm

Hey Kristin, this is a great site and very helpful…kudos to ya for setting it up and providing all of the valuable information! I have been pondering leaving my job for some time now to travel Southeast Asia for a year. I have been fortunate that I can travel twice a year while still having my job, and I have been to a few countries so far (Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines) but I really want to spend more time there than just a few weeks per year. What are your thoughts on being there for a year? Do you think it’s too long? Also, after your 8 month trip and you returned to the States what was your takeaway from it and are you more motivated to travel now or less? What would say was the best part of the trip?

02/10/2016 at 12:39 pm

Altogether I’ve spent 3 years of my life in Asia and I STILL feel like I haven’t seen it all so there’s no way that a year is too long. I loved the interactions with locals when they happened. Have fun!

03/29/2016 at 2:36 am

This blog is friggin amazing! Thanks for all the great advice. I’ve been saving for the last two years and I’m about to embark on an across the globe backpack journey, living on 20 dollars a day.

04/04/2016 at 4:43 am

Thanks a lot for sharing!! I’m planning a trip to Southeast Asia and this is the first article that actually helped me to calculate expenses. Thank you for all the helpful information

A Pin on the Map says

05/23/2016 at 10:36 am

Thanks so much for the invaluable info! Thinking of heading to Vietnam and Cambodia next summer and this post will be perfect to re-visit before I book my trip. Thanks for sharing!!

Julie Rog. says

05/24/2016 at 4:08 am

Thanks for all the great advice! I want to travel now ^^

NickPomata says

05/26/2016 at 4:40 am

i think 11.000$ is too expensive i also paln a 6 months travel, in southeast asia but probably 4000/5000 will be my budget

07/29/2016 at 2:47 am

Hi NickPomata, are you still traveling? And how about yourt target 4000/5000 per 6 months? Thank you!

Steeve says

07/08/2016 at 6:33 am

I am always amazed on how much expenses keep piling up when I am on vacation… Even when I don’t do anything fancy. I now try to do some volunteering work. I receive accommodation and meals and in return I do some work. It is the best way to travel with minimum expenses and to get to know some local people and the local culture. I did it last year in a yoga ashram in India called Arhanta Yoga. It was the best experience ever. I am now looking for a place in Cambodia, if any body has any suggestions… I would love to know!

Emilia @ mythicalasia.com says

07/13/2016 at 10:29 pm

Southeast Asia is a wonderful destination for the families with kids. Also for many travelers, this region is their first introduction to Asia.

Maddie says

07/23/2016 at 12:03 pm

Took my first trip to Southeast Asia summer of 2015 and spent 10 days in Thailand going through Ayutthaya, Lopburi, and then finally Bangkok. Even spent my 18th birthday in Bangkok and stayed on Khaosan Road! Best experience of my life, planning another trip summer 2017 with my dad that takes us to Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, and finally Thailand. We both want to hopefully move somewhere in SE Asia in the next few years and this breakdown of costs and your experience helps with the planning process!

07/25/2016 at 4:18 am

That’s wonderful! So glad that you had such a great time 🙂

Naciholidays says

09/12/2016 at 2:57 am

Vietnam is also a good suggestion, I visited Ha Long Bay is very beautiful there and Nha Trang, Sai Gon … Maybe you’ll like it

James Crosby says

08/22/2016 at 11:32 am

If you really put young urban mind to it $30 a day overall is very realistic. I did that ciircuit as part of a larger trip and it can be done on around $18 a day. Couchsurf, hitchhike, and that’s your two biggest costs wiped out. As far as food, you can easily eat breakfast for $1 and evening meal for $3. Use a steripen so you can drink tap water, never drink alcohol. Also don’t take tuktuks unless you really need to. Wake up early and walk everywhere. Some days I would walk in excess of 20km to explore places. Keeps you fit and it’d free.

08/22/2016 at 4:56 pm

I’d say the biggest part of that advice that helps with costs is not drinking (and for the sake of argument, not doing activities that cost money). Eating local and sleeping cheap are great ways to save but I also think most people can’t resist indulging when they travel, in all of the fun stuff, so I’d rather spend a bit more to have more fun.

10/13/2016 at 2:06 am

My Partner and I are planning a 6 month trip to South East Asia with our 16 month old son.

We want to do it as cheap as possible and we’re thinking of buying a van and decking it out with a mattress etc.

Do you think this would be safe and efficient way to travel South East Asia? We are planning on going to Singapore, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia.

10/13/2016 at 11:07 am

I don’t really think that’s necessary. Busses and private rooms at hostels are so cheap, and I never really saw anyone self-driving there except for on a motorbike.

10/21/2016 at 1:44 pm

So true about the $30 a day and just totally going over with even just a visa fee or transport! Transport prices are what surprised us! I did not get any immunizations though and I flew from Australia so my flights were much less as well. Love your honest breakdown. Very helpful for first-timers to SEA 🙂

Äventyrsresenär says

12/11/2016 at 6:11 am

Hi there Kristin,

Just stumbled on your blog and as a former expat in Asia I’m glad to see you covered some useful tips and advice when traveling around this region. I haven’t read all of your posts for this particular adventure… you mentioned some stuff you did in the south of thailand and indonesia and malaysia, was it scuba diving? Would love to know more, did you write a post about these travel experiences as well?

Have a great weekend, Sam aka “Äventyrsresenären”

12/11/2016 at 11:15 am

Sure did! Scroll down to SCUBA diving on this active adventures page and you can see what I wrote about: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/outdoor-travel-blog/

12/13/2016 at 3:22 am

I am going away for 6 weeks on boxing day to Thailand, Vietnam & Cambodia. What would you say is the best way to carry money as i will need three different currencies.

12/15/2016 at 8:59 pm

get it from ATMs

Agness of a TukTuk says

02/14/2017 at 12:39 am

Wow, this is great! I learned a thing or two I could’ve done better when I was in SEA. It’s affordable travel, but it could even be made more affordable. There’s something about the people in SEA that totally makes me want to go back.

02/22/2017 at 9:29 pm

Hi Kristin, Thank you for the tips, I have traveled around the world but most of them were with the US Marine Corps. I am just finishing up grad school this May and will travel for the first time that is not work related. I will be traveling for 3 months and want to start with Thailand, and end in Australia. I don’t drink (I am hoping that will save me some money) and I don’t have any other habits that will cost me more (want to get a scuba license though). I like the couchsurfing idea (do you know any other option if I don’t find accommodations for free?). What safety advice would you give me (specially if I was in military in my past life) and i believe I have most of the immunization done through military deployments. Where would I be able to learn to surf for cheap or even free in any of these countries that you have visited in SE asia? Thank you, Michael

02/22/2017 at 11:50 pm

There’s no surf except for in Indonesia, I’m fairly certain. As for safety, just be smart. If you don’t drink then that’ll help a lot with money and with not getting into trouble. Dorms are so cheap, if you can’t couchsurf then go for those.

Therie says

03/12/2017 at 7:35 am

You really can’t miss scuba diving in SE Asia. It’s a must and the experience is absolutely worth the money. Thank you for putting this together Kristin! Your blog is so awesome, great tips and recommendations, keep it up!

03/14/2017 at 6:48 am

Glad you liked it! I totally agree, I wouldn’t have wanted to experience SEA without the diving. It was worth every penny!

06/15/2017 at 11:43 am

Has anyone tried camping in South Asia or have any experience with it? I’m considering that 🙂

Piotr Kowalski says

09/26/2017 at 4:53 am

This is a very good post and I definitely was looking for something like this. I’m planning a long term trip to Asia next year and the information you have put here will make me change my plans a little. I didn’t know that Laos and Cambodia are so damn cheap, $2 for a bed is nearly like for free or to put it into perspective, I couldn’t even buy a nice sandwich in Europe for that amount. Which place/country you liked the most from them all that you’ve seen in south east Asia?

09/26/2017 at 7:03 am

I like them all for different reasons! Laos was pretty special, though, as was Cambodia, because they were a little less popular.

Abdulrahman Ameen says

11/26/2017 at 7:44 am

This is what I was just searching for. I’m planing to go to a trip to Southeast Asia soon but I have already visited Malaysia, So now I’m Planing to go to Cambodia,Vietnam,Indonesia, Philippines ,Thailand and Myanmar. But a lot of people told me Laos, Vietnam And Cambodia are much similar and they told me you can just go to Cambodia so what do you think of that? and how long should I take to visit these countries with how much budget like estimating ?

11/26/2017 at 9:26 am

I don’t think they’re similar at all. Each has its own unique culture and landscape and things to see. I think a month in each country is good if you can.

Valentina Greene says

07/28/2019 at 1:11 pm

Love reading your posts. Thanks for sharing.

07/31/2019 at 8:44 am

Thank you for sharing! I enjoyed reading your post, and it is very helpful for me to plan my next trip.

08/02/2019 at 4:46 am

Great post! It will be very helpful to those who are planning to the trip and the pics are very nice.

Daniel Gallo says

08/30/2019 at 12:20 am

Where do you get the money to do this if your on Min. Wage? im lucky if after all the bills are paid i have 100$ left. like a 1k a year. it take me over a decade to do something like this?

09/02/2019 at 9:53 am

You might find this helpful https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/how-to-afford-solo-female-travel/

Brendon says

11/16/2019 at 5:27 pm

Great article. I always save up and pay for insurance and the main flight ahead of time and then just pretend that money vanished ? And then I budget from there with my remaining money. Fortunely I’m Canadian and don’t have to pay for immunization. But again the CAD dollar is much weaker thanks USD. Stay in places longer and travel slower saved me hell of alot more money ?

Mary Smith says

01/03/2020 at 2:39 am

Great post! it will be very helpful for planning any trip to Aisa.

01/21/2024 at 11:11 pm

Great article. I’d also suggest a good tip on money in SE Asia. Atms are a good way of getting cash and you can use apps like ATM Fee Saver – it helps finding the fee-free and lower fee Atms in the region along with withdrawal limits for foreign card holers. worth adding to your list of tricks!

The foolproof packing list for Asia: 16 must-have travel essentials

Welcome to our ultimate packing list for Asia travel essentials

From mountainous jungle to enticing oceans, massive religious monuments to historical ruins, Asia has so much to discover. When you also consider how cheaply you can travel much of the continent, there is no wonder it is one of the best backpacking destinations in the world.

Given that Asia is so immense, many visitors opt to travel slowly across Asia to absorb as much of the beauty and culture as possible. 

With that in mind, we have come up with this handy packing list for Asia travel fundamentals and gadgets to help long term travelers and short term tourists alike.

Where the recommended product is a little expensive, we have also recommended a budget option too.

You may also enjoy:

• Best International Travel Surge Protector
• Best Extension Cord For International Travel
• Best Travel Crib For Flying | Top 10 And Buying Guide

Coming up Traveling Fundamentals Recommended travel tech Travel Health The ultimate must-have essential Affiliate disclosure: The links to tours or accommodation in this post are affiliate links. This means if you purchase after following one of these links, I make a small commission at no cost to yourself. Think of it like a win-win ?

Traveling Fundamentals

A bloody good backpack.

You gotta have one of these if your backpacking right? Since there is tons of walking when visiting Asia, a comfortable and well-organized backpack is a travel necessity. 

There are a couple of things you may want to consider before investing in a backpack. First is if it has waterproof features, it is common to get caught in sudden downpours in certain parts of Asia frequently.

The other important consideration is if you be checking it in. If you plan not to, make sure it fits the requirements of a carry on backpack .

We recommend: Osprey Packs Farpoint 40 travel backpack

Of course, the backpack you need will depend heavily on the size you require, however you cannot go far wrong with the Osprey brand. One such backpack is the Osprey Farpoint 40 that opens like a suitcase. Made of a durable material osprey Farpoint 40 boasts of roomy compartments, a plethora of pockets and lockable zips to keep your all your travel gears intact. For maximum comfort when covering long distances, the pack has generous padding and adjustable straps for perfect fitting.  The long-term traveler will appreciate the padded laptop sleeve and a lifetime warranty that comes with Osprey products. 

On a tight budget? Try the Gonex 55L hiking backpack with rain cover

Packing Cubes 

When I discovered packing cubes, it was a game changer when packing for long-term travel. They maximized space and helped my previously disaster zone of a backpack to stay organized. They also come in handy when separating clean clothes from dirty ones. The good thing is that they come in various sizes to accommodate different sizes of clothes. For easier identification of the piles of crap that will accumulate in your backpack,  you may find it easier to pack in cubes of different colors.

We recommend: Eagle Creek Pack It Original Starter Set

Eagle Creek makes excellent packing cubes. They are lightweight, washable, and made of top quality fabric. With over four colors and different sizes to choose from Eagle Creek is a must have for every backpacker.

On a tight budget? Try the 7-pc Travel Packing Cube System

Backpack lock

Traveling with unlocked luggage can weigh on your mind, especially when you are in dorms. Now I will happily say that almost all of the hostels that I have stayed in, I have felt confident that my stuff is safe, but there is always one or two where you feel a little nervous about leaving things behind. opportunity. That is why I have tracked down some backpack locking systems for my packing list for Asia.

We recommend: Pacsafe Backpack and Bag Protector

For ultimate peace of mind, take a look at this full on wire mesh backpack lock. You just slip the backpack in there, lock it up and no one will be getting in.

On a tight budget? Try the TSA Approved Luggage Locks

While these locks aren’t perfect, most thefts are a spur of the moment decisions and by adding a lock to your backpack, it will certainly deter thieves. The cables on these locks are a good length and should slip over most buckles as well as zips. If it is too small, you can always connect two together.

Ultra-portable water  bottles

To keep well hydrated and save on the cost of purchasing bottled water ever time, one of the best travel accessories to pack is a lightweight bottle.  Reusable water bottles also help in reducing plastic waste accumulation. Since drinking water is readily available in Asia, you just fill your bottle before long day adventures and enjoy your travels.

We recommend: Vapur Element BPA Free Foldable Water Bottle

Vapur element flexible bottle is a great solution. It is foldable, takes up little space, is cheap and BPA free. You can freeze water with them, and they are easy to clean.

On a tight budget? Try the Qnch Collapsible Water Bottle

Portable luggage scale 

Overweight luggage can decimate your budget quicker than an ice cream melts on the equator. So to avoid this, a great little accessory is a small luggage scale.

We recommend: Camry luggage scale

With Camry portable travel scale, there is no more guesswork or excess baggage you can travel confidently. Camry is accurate, easy to hook on the bag, and is small enough to fit in your backpack. This handheld digital scale comes with a battery that holds power for a long time. The digital readout display is visible and large. 

A headlamp is a  great travel accessory for outdoor activities, especially for long-term travelers backpacking Asia.  Whether it is during unexpected power outages, hiking at dusk or merely trying to find the toilet at midnight in a dorm room when others are sleeping, headlamps are part and parcel of your travel packing list.  

Unlike a flashlight, the great thing with headlamps is that they free your hands so you can multitask while ensuring your path is well lighted.

We recommend: GRDE rechargeable headlamp

We love the GRDE rechargeable headlamp, it is one one the brightest headlamps available while also being waterproof should you get caught in the rain. We also love the fact that it is a rechargeable headlamp but it can also be powered by standard batteries should you find yourself away from power for an extended period of time. Finally, it boasts of three brightness level that can be adjusted by the switch (perfect for not disturbing dorm mates), lightweight and has a comfortable and adjustable strap.

On a tight budget? Try the LE Headlamp with 4 lighting modes

Microfiber travel towel

Trust us when we say a packable travel towel is essential travel gear. We have seen many of the rentable towels in hostels, and quite frankly, we’d rather not see them again. Look for a towel that occupies minimal space in your backpack yet a quality product that lasts.  Due to variation in climate travelers envy a quick-drying material that is washable and durable.

We recommend: ECOdept microfiber travel towel

The Ecodept microfiber travel towel is a great choice. Made of a soft, absorbent, quick drying, and feather-light material, the microfiber towels comes in different sizes.  When rolled, it will fit comfortably in your carryon without eating space. 

Note: To ensure they retain their absorbency, avoid using fabric softeners and detergents.

On a tight budget? Try the 4MONSTER packable microfiber towel

There will be a stage in your journey where these come in handy. Crossing the Zambezi to take a leap into the Devil’s Pool or just swimming in the ocean and don’t fancy leaving your valuables behind, a dry bag can come to the rescue.

They are great little things to stow away as they really don’t take up much space and offer plenty of use.

We Recommend: Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bags

These dry bags feature double closure strip seals at the top to prevent water from coming in and the larger bags also have added protection with a roll top fastening. They are extremely sturdy, lightweight, tear resistant and best of all, it floats.

Recommended Travel Tech

Portable travel charger .

These have been a lifesaver for many travelers visiting Asia.  Not much is more irritating than getting a flat battery in a foreign land. Given that while traveling, you will often find yourself outdoors or in transit and away from power outlets, the chances are that at some point, your phone is going to run out of juice. Don’t underestimate how much Google mapping, communicating with loved ones that you’re safe, and of course taking millions of amazing pictures to show off to your friends stuck at home. These are all battery sapping behaviors, so a backup powerpack is borderline essential . 

Note: Most power banks use lithium-ion batteries that most airlines won’t allow to be checked I, so make sure you keep it in your carry on. Having been over the Atlantic ocean while smelling burning on a plane as one of these set fire in the hold, I can promise, it is for a reason. It is not a nice feeling!

We recommend: Anker PowerCore Lite 20000mAh Portable Charger

The Anker 20000Mah power bank offers great value. With two USB ports, Anker is super fast at charging and easy to use. Just make sure you remember to charge the charger, plugging your phone into it to see it too is dead is awful, trust me, I’ve been there.

On a tight budget? Try the ZMI PowerPack 10000mAh Fast Charging Portable Battery Pack

Lightweight but great travel camera

While phones are getting better at taking photos every day, for most serious photo-backpackers, a camera is an absolute essential travel accessory.  There is nothing more fulfilling than capturing your best travel moments, scenic landscapes, and iconic attractions. Given that Asian destinations are a dream for photographers, an excellent lightweight camera is a must have for backpackers. While DSRL seems to do a great job, they are heavy and may not be an excellent choice for the minimalist traveler or long term traveler traversing Asia due to portability.  

We recommend: Sony Alpha 6000 mirrorless camera

The Sony Alpha 6000 mirrorless camera is a great choice.  Apart from being reasonably priced, a6000 captures fantastic photos and record great videos at 1080/60p. Thanks to its easily accessible manual settings featuring the menu button, dual function dials, and function button beginners can easily customize the settings. It has an in-built Wi-Fi and is light to travel with. It features filters, epic low-light performance, and autofocus system to ensure the quality of your images is maintained. 

On a tight budget? Try the Nikon COOLPIX B500 digital camera

Pocket wifi

An international wifi hotspot is incredibly useful when it comes to long-term travel. A connection has become an essential ingredient of everyday life.  The most common challenge travelers’ face is slow speed, unstable and insecure WI-FI. Since most long-term travelers work online to sustain their nomadic lifestyle, stable and robust portable Wi-Fi is non-negotiable. Portable Wi-Fi comes in handy when traveling across many countries as you need to keep in touch with your clients.

We recommend: GlocalMe 4G LTE International WiFi Hospot

If you plan on spending much time exploring Asia, then Glocalme mobile hotspot is your perfect match. It is super fast and can basically keep you connected in most countries, especially in Asia. Glocalme comes in three different packages depending on the number of countries you intend to visit. This wireless connectivity password protected to avoid data leakage and can connect to multiple devices.

On a tight budget? Try the ZTE Velocity 4G LTE Mobile Pocket WiFi Hotspot

Noise Cancelling Headphones 

Crying babies, snoring passengers or noisy neighborhoods, we’ve all had our peaceful journeys affected by one of these at some point, right? This can be frustrating, especially at night or during long flights, making it hard to sleep, read, or simply stay calm. Well, the good news is that noise canceling technology is fantastic and a great travel accessory.

We recommend: Bose QuietComfort 35 II

Bose quiet comfort 35 is an excellent choice that guarantees calm and peaceful travel experience.  It has unparalleled noise cancellation, long battery life, and superior sound quality and is Bluetooth enabled.

On a tight budget? Try the COWIN E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

Travel extension cord with USB

If you are an avid traveler, you’ve probably noticed that power outlets are not always located in the most convenient spots.  Whether you are in hotels, hostels, cafes, or airports, you may find that outlets are too few to charge all your gadgets. A power strip with multiple outlets and extension cord is your ideal travel companion. It gives you the freedom to charge multiple tech devices at once and close to your desired spot.

On a tight budget? Try the TESSAN 3 outlets travel power strip with surge protector

When it comes to Asia TESSAN portable power strip is the best.  For your convenience it futures 5 feet extension cord, three USB ports, two power plug slots, and fireproof material. If you want extra protection for your devices, you can bring a surge protector along.

On a tight budget? Try the UPWADE Outlet Travel Power Strip

Travel Health

Basic first aid kit.

One of those things you hope to never have to use, but you’ll bless the stars if you need it and you have it. Nothing too fancy, just have some plasters, anti-septic wipes, that kind f thing in the case that you get a nasty cut or even have to patch up some leech bites . . . tasty.

We recommend: 66 Pieces Soft Shell Travel First Aid Kit

This little pack is the perfect size for stuffing in your back pack and forgetting about it. For the tiny space inside, it packs a lot in there with almost everything you may need for any unwanted scrapes on the road. apart from tiger attacks. If you get attacked by a tiger, you’re probably better off heading straight to hospital rather than putting a plaster on it.

Portable UV sanitizing wand

OK, time for you to gross out for a minute. Have you ever considered the number of bugs on hotel sheets or even hostel mattresses? Trust me, it’s a lot more than you would probably think.

For the most part, they are harmless. But a lot of travelers don’t fancy sharing their bed with the microscopic hitchhikers. So, luckily some technology will help, the bug killing wand. 

We recommend: UV Care ultraviolet sanitizing wand

This portable device uses the power of concentrated UV Rays to kill off many of the germs and bacteria that get in its way. While it’s not going to get everything, it will undoubtedly be an improvement. It will even come in handy for your own sleeping bag if you are traveling long term.

Other recommend health essentials

I just wanted to give you a few extra suggestions that you may want to consider picking up from a local pharmacy before you travel. While they may take up a bit of space and you may never use them, trust me when I say searching for a pharmacy while suffering from crippling diarrhea in a foreign land just to save a bit of space is not fun.

• Insect repellent
• Diarrhea Medicine
• Hand sanitizer
• Rehydration sachets

Final product

So here it is, my top recommendation that I swore like a trooper when I didn’t have it and have never left it behind since. A plug. Yep, it’s that simple. It was when traveling through Africa that I had to do some laundry and none of the damn sinks had plugs. Now I don’t know if you have ever tried cleaning your underwear under running water, but it is bloody difficult. The great thing about a universal plug it is that you will never expect to use, it, you may not even do so, but when you need one, it is very hard to plug a sink with a sock. for the price vs. space vs. how useful it is should you need one, I highly recommend packing one.

We recommend: Universal Silicone Sink Plug

There’s not much I can say about it but look . . . It has a world map on it, that’s cool. ?

If you wanted to know more about my trip through Africa, I have a fun travel diary, How to clean your underwear in Africa , available on Amazon. You can also get a digital copy by joining my mailing list . Only updates, no spam 🙂

Final Words

Travel accessories make trips smooth and more enjoyable.  They save space, time, and money and offer traveler peace of mind. While the packing list may differ from each individual, the above-listed items are very beneficial and are worthy of investing in.

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Asia - First Time

Any travelers out there who’ve explored Asia quite a bit? I’m curious as to know what everyone’s favorite places are and where you would recommend a first time Asia traveler go on their first trip.

Cathay Pacific Airlines often has special rates from west coasts cities. They may still have one that includes multiple cities for one basic price. It remains the best airline we've ever used. We flew to Hong Kong and then were able to select two more Asian cities for one price but returning to Hong Kong between each leg. We chose Singapore, where English is the standard language, and Bali (Denpasar). We stayed in Hong Kong for 6 days and took a day trip to mainland China and saw some of the terra cotta warriors. Nowadays many choose to go to Nha Trang, Vung Tau, or other beach cities in Viet Nam. I visited some of those Vietnamese cities long ago but had to be wary of an ambush or booby traps when I was there..... : ( You can't go wrong with Hong Kong for a first trip.

Well I most likely will be traveling solo and will probably go for a week during the Fall. 27 year old male, no budget constraints. I’ve been to 13 countries in Europe in the past 2 years so I’m looking to switch things up for my next international trip. I’m thinking my first trip might be one of Singapore, Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, or Hong Kong. I like to be on my feet and on the move exploring cities. (A week on the beach in Florida or at a casino in Vegas is not my style of travel). I’m pretty open as to things I like to do, but for my first trip I would probably prefer a big city as opposed to a beach type city in Cambodia or Vietnam for example. Food, people watching, historical landmarks.

It really depends on what sort of experience you're looking for. For the minimum culture shock I'd suggest Singapore, with its modern infrastructure, English language and signage. It's a very comfortable experience for a first time traveler to Asia. Hong Kong would be my second choice for many of the same reasons. At the other end of the spectrum would be China, which can really be an assault on the senses if you're not prepared for it. The other destinations you list fall somewhere in between to varying degrees. Seoul, Taipei and Tokyo are modern, prosperous cities and getting around the respective countries is pretty straighforward. Other countries, ie Vietnam, Thailand,Cambodia, etc. - not so much. Keep in mind that distances between countries in Asia are much greater than in Europe, requiring flights to connect them, thus eating up at least half a day even between countries that appear to be easily "bundled" from scanning a map. Singapore to Bangkok, for example, takes about 2.5hours. There are low cost airlines in Asia too. Some are pretty spartan but will get you where you want to go cheaply enough.

We love Thailand but have also explored the Philippines, China, and Korea. They are all incredibly different from each other. I would recommend Thailand for your first trip. Most everything is cheap, the people are lovely, there is a ton of history, beautiful jungle, gorgeous beaches, and great food. It's a fun place to travel alone as it's easy to meet other travelers to hang out with, especially out on the islands. If you head south toward Phuket, the islands in the Andaman Sea, and the coast around Phang Nga Bay and Krabi, you'll get a great overview of the country. The Philippines are even cheaper but it's harder to get around as a westerner IMHO. Manila is interesting but there isn't much to do for more than a couple of days. Other than that the beaches there are just stunning and there is virtually no one on them. China is incredible and relatively cheap but you have to have a driver or use public transport in the cities. Westerners aren't allowed to drive but the train system between cities is very nice. Wherever you go though you won't be disappointed. Korea is full of history but isn't as cheap. I found it interesting but didn't stay in Seoul for more than a few days so can't really give too many recommendations. Asia is pretty addictive once you start going...still so many places on our list!

If you're thinking of combining Tokyo and Seoul, know that each has an older city airport separate from the international airports at Narita and Incheon - each of which is located quite distant from the respective city centers, thus making them a time consuming (and sometimes expensive) hassle to get to.

Haneda (Tokyo) and Gimpo (Seoul) are located much closer to the downtown areas, making connections between the two much more convenient. Point being that you could craft an open jaw flight plan that would enable you to visit both cities on a single trip without wasting an entire day just getting from one to the other.

I haven’t been to Asia in many years, but I don’t think you will find any of the cities you mention to be at all “difficult” as a solo traveler. I would choose Bangkok, Hong Kong or Tokyo. I have not been to Seoul and I think one week in Singapore is too much (a few days are enough and it’s a long trip from North America...I’m guessing that’s where you are starting. Do Singapore on the way to Indonesia.)

I adore Hong Kong. I’ve been there a couple times on my own. Food is superb. The city just buzzes. When you get tired of the buzz, you an take a day trip by ferry to an outer island and wander around.

Bangkok and Thailand were my first Asian adventure on my own. I spent 3 weeks traveling mostly by bus. I didn’t do beaches but headed north and had a lovely time. I’m not sure I would spend a full week in Bangkok, but you could easily combine Bangkok with another destination in Thailand or elsewhere.

Tokyo is great too. I spent a week there my first time. That said, I'm not sure I would spend a full week there. Go to Nikko or Nara or Kyoto. You could do Nikko as a day trip, but it is a long trip and it’s a nice place to spend the evening. Trains are superb in Japan. Fly to Tokyo, train somewhere and fly back from Osaka.

Distances are long. Look into flight times. It’s a long way from Tokyo to Singapore. You might want to just do Korea and Japan to save on travel time, esp since you only have a week.

I have done a three week tour (including a four night river cruise) of China.

Toured Japan for a week prior to a cruise that visited five Japanese ports, Shanghi, China, Okinawa, Tiawan, ending in Hong Kong.

Been to the Philippines, Hong Kong (3 times) and Thailand.

Been to Singapore, Bali, Indonesia and Malaysia as well as four ports in SW India.

Also, I lived in Saudi Arabia for 5 years working for the US government, traveling to places in the Persian Gulf and Middle East. Turkey is in Asia and another great place to visit.

We loved all the fascinating history of China with the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Tinammen Square, Teracotta Warriors in Xian, Cruise on the Yangzee as well as the Li River with its Karst formations. Shanghai and other places are great. If you have time, China is amazing.

Japan is right up there with China. We loved the people of Japan. They are wonderful, helpful and very friendly. Lots to see in that country and Kyoto is a must see.

Hong Kong is amazing, a real mix of east and west. A thriving city, I visited in 1981 and later in 2012 and 2015, it has modernized and changed so much. It is still a unique place.

Singapore and neighboring Malaysia are worth a visit, but not quite in the class with Japan and China.

Bali was nice, but less nice than Singapore.

Zach, your profile doesn't say where you live, however, any trip from west coast North America to Asia in one week is going to eat up plenty of your time in the air (not to mention the adjustment for jet lag on arrival). To maximize your time, I would pick one major city of interest that you can (preferably) fly to non-stop and base yourself there. You will have about 5 days at best for exploring, given the time change, arrival and departure days.

Tokyo is a good example of a city with lots to experience, with good transportation networks, and some interesting day trips (beautiful scenery) if time permits. It has it all: - history, landmarks, culture, people watching, great food, and the most helpful people you will find anywhere. If you like cities, five to seven days will fly by in Tokyo! Hakone/Mt. Fuji, Yokohama, Kamakura are a few nearby day trips among many to choose from.

I’m thinking my first trip might be one of Singapore, Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, or Hong Kong. Those are all great cities, but with only one week, I'd go for a 11-12 hours direct flight rather than 19 hours!

Thailand is my favorite, Bangkok and Chiang Mai would easily fill a week with stunning sights and great experiences. Winter is the best time to go. I didn't particularly enjoy Singapore, can't imagine what I'd do there for more than 2 days and it's very expensive. I love Hong Kong, spend a couple of days on Macau for something different (but avoid the casinos, go for the historical sights - charming. Vietnam is fine, I found my time out of the cities (Saigon, Hanoi) was what I most enjoyed.

Where do you live?

For many people, travel time to much of Asia is dramatically longer than a flight to most of Europe - how much longer depends on where you live and where you're going- but when you start talking about a trip to Asia that's "a week" some hard realities set up. Specifically, it takes about 2 days of travel time to get to many parts of Asia (up the 3 or 4 days to some corners of it) - and that's starting on the west coast of North America. Starting from a small town in the eastern US...add another flight or two. When you start looking at routings with multiple layovers, and you can't decide whether to go east, west or over the pole to get there...it starts to sink in that you're going a long, long way.

Personally, I don't think it's wise to go to Asia for "a week". You spend half (or more) of your trip just getting there and getting home.

OTOH, from where I live (Seattle) one can fly to Tokyo in less time than it takes to get to most of Europe -- although culturally, it feels like a much greater distance.

no budget constraints

Maybe no constraints financially speaking (lucky you). Time constraints will be worth considering.

Erie, Pa. I will most likely be using the Toronto airport. Yes, I’ve factored in travel time as well. I understand the first 2 days traveling over and the day traveling back are for travel only. I’ve already factored those in planning ahead. My trip would then potentially be 7 days on the ground, exploring. I know I said I would have about a week, but probably will actually have 10 days off based off my work schedule. I also know Toronto has nonstop, direct flights to Tokyo, Seoul, and Hong Kong which certainly gives those 3 a leg up on the others.

Well, Hong Kong is a lot further than Tokyo (or Seoul). On such a short trip, that extra distance/time makes a difference.

I'd suggest Japan. Look for a nonstop to Tokyo and buy a rail pass, hit the Shinkansen . You wouldn't run out of great things to see/do in a year, never mind a week. Easy for foreigners, and a perfect first-trip to Asia. On the surface, Japan appears familiar, modern, efficient (and it is - makes coming back to North America feel like you're going to an undeveloped backwater). Japan is easy. But just below the surface, there's a huge cultural difference. Plenty of big cities. Ticks all your boxes in big ways.

The fall is a great time to go, reasonable weather, good stuff to see (just expect crowds for leaf-watching, it's a big thing).

Having traveled pretty extensively around Asia, I'd say that given your constraints and interests, Japan would be a no-brainer.

Given your time constraints and the other details you've provided I agree that Japan would be your best choice for an introductory trip to Asia. The availability of non-stop flights is a very big deal IMO. I noticed that at least one of the flights from Toronto goes into Haneda rather than Narita, which itself will help a bit with the logistics. September in Tokyo, and in Japan in general, is a great time to visit. The suggestion of flying open jaw - into Tokyo and out of Osaka - is a good one. Finishing up your week with a day or two in Kyoto would be a nice capstone to your visit to Japan before heading home.

I think Japan, South Korea or Hong Kong would all be excellent introductions to Asia. Hong Kong would probably be one of the easiest in terms of language since even though Cantonese is the first language, the British influence is still visible. English language signage is everywhere, and plenty of locals speak English. Even many of the place names are English, and by that I mean they are named after places or people from Britain such as Victoria Park, or Harlech Road or Prince Edward station. All three are pretty affluent, and one way this helps you is that public transport is excellent.

Somewhere like Vietnam is also worth visiting but a little more of a culture shock. In the case of Vietnam, I needed to get a visa, as well as get injections for Typhoid, Hepatitis A etc. Hepatitis A requires two injections, so I needed to start this a few months in advance. So there is more preparation, it is not just a matter of buying your airfare. Public transport is also not as well developed as in the other countries I mentioned. I still had a great time in Vietnam though.

I agree with the other posters that 7-10 days, especially from the US East Coast, really allows for only 1 or maybe 2 countries in Asia. You may want to pick between North Asia and South; they'll have totally different weather in the fall - cool or tropical. As a solo traveler, you might also consider that people in Japan, Korea, and even China are more reserved and it's easy to feel 'unstuck' if you don't know anyone and don't speak the language. In Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines the people are easier to approach and there are enough young, single foreign travelers to make it easy to meet people, eat alone in restaurants, etc. Also, English is more widely spoken in Southeast Asia. North Asia is more developed, wealthy, and business-like; Southeast Asia is more flexible and less developed. If I were you, I'd do either Japan (Tokyo + Kyoto + Nara) or Thailand / Malaysia / Singapore. And save the other for another trip.

Japan! For the time frame you posted, a couple of days in Tokyo followed by Kyoto and Nara. Definitely use the trains.

Japan is a great introduction. It is a developed country with every modern convenience (and beyond) a person could ask for, the people are friendly and helpful, it's safe, the food is delicious, and there's a life time of culture and nature to explore. There are also huge cultural differences, which I find fascinating.

Spam in which the clever writer failed to mention where the place is. In Asia somewhere, I guess.

Reported to Webmaster.

I’ve decided to do a Tokyo/Hong Kong combination trip with 4 nights in each city (possibly 5 and 3 too) sometime in late November-early December. Thank you all for your suggestions as these 2 cities seem to be the best fit for my first Asia experience.

Japan to really get you acquainted with the Asian culture. Don't miss out on the Philippines as well. It's not among the usual suggestions but it definitely has so much charm and beauty waiting to be discovered. Explore the places outside the city like the beautiful islands and beaches. Enjoy!

Do consider flying out of Haneda to Hong Kong versus Narita - much less hassle that way. Flight costs are very competitive and once you account for the cost involved just getting out to Narita airport it's usually cheaper overall.

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

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Best & Worst Times to Visit Southeast Asia 2024/2025, Rainy Season...

Southeast Asia lies within the tropics, with southern areas close to the equator, and so it's warm all year round. Average temperatures are around 27°C (80°F).

The climate varies significantly across the region of Southeast Asia. This makes it a year-round travel destination. The best time to visit will really come down to which country you would like to visit and what you want to do.

Generally speaking, the best time to visit most places in Southeast Asia is from November to February when the weather is dry (driest) and warm (on average) . Wet-season monsoon rains fall from June to October in most SE Asian countries.

• Weather Guide
• Best Times for Beaches
• Worst Times to Visit
• Travel Guide by Country
• Travel Guide by Month

Southeast Asia Weather Guide

Not all countries in Southeast Asia share the same seasons at the same time. There are some regional differences. They are roughly divided into two weather patterns.

There are three main seasons in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and the Philippines :

• Dry season: November to February
• Hot season: March to May
• Rainy season: June to October

There are two main seasons in Malaysia, Indonesia (Bali), and Singapore :

• Dry season: April to September
• Rainy season: October to March

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Most travelers choose to visit mainland Southeast Asia during its dry season as it's not so hot with little rain. During this time, go to the busy places as early or late in the peak season as you cann to avoid the crowds, such as the Grand Palace in Thailand and Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

The weather in the hot season, consistently getting to around 38°C (100°F). But it is a good time for the water fun at the beach. 

The rainy season is not so good, but you will find fewer crowds and lower prices for flights and accommodation. Travel to Southeast Asia in Summer: Places to Go, Costs, Weather

Check out how to plan a family trip to Southeast Asia >>>

Best Times for Beaches in Southeast Asia

• Thailand and Vietnam : November to early April
• Indonesia and Malaysia : April to October

If you hope to enjoy sunbathing and swimming in the sea , generally speaking, the best time to visit Southeast Asia's beaches is from November through early April when the weather is usually sunny and dry, and it's not too hot or too cool. The beaches in many countries, such as Thailand and Vietnam, are at their best during this period.

But if you would like to enjoy your beach vacation in Indonesia (like in Bali) or Malaysia's east coast (like on the Perhentian Islands or Tioman Island), the best time to go is between April and October .

If you're traveling to the beaches during the wet season, you should expect some rainy days, but there will also be days where it only rains for a short while and then the sun comes out. You'll find that hotel and resort prices are considerably cheaper during the rainy season .

Suggested read: Itinerary ideas for 10 days , 2 weeks , 3 weeks , 4 weeks , 5 weeks & 6 weeks in Southeast Asia>>>

Worst Times to Visit Southeast Asia

June to October is the rainy season and is generally considered to be the worst time to visit Southeast Asia. There will be some discomfort or inconvenience if you travel during these months. 

However, these worst times for the travel trade have benefits. You can enjoy very reasonable price and less-crowded beaches and temples. In addition, as  the rain in Southeast Asia is so predictable (it usually rains in the afternoon and at night) , it's easy to plan around the weather. This means there's not so much of a problem in traveling to Southeast Asia during the off-season, as long as you know what to expect and plan well.

If you are visiting northern Southeast Asia (Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Philippines) and particularly concerned about the weather, we would like to suggest you avoid April (the hottest month) and September (the wettest month). For dry experiences, you could visit Singapore and Bali  instead, which enjoy the best time from April to October.

Further reading:  How to Plan a Trip to Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore >>>

Best Times to Visit Different Countries in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is a large region. It is warm all year round. No matter when you visit, you will find a place that matches your interests and preferences.

Click the country name below to check the best travel time.

Best Times to Visit Thailand

Generally, the most popular time to visit Thailand is between November and early April when it is the cool and dry season. Northern and Southern Thailand experience different climates.

Southern Thailand :Southern Thailand is a perfect destination if you are looking for an excellent vacation on beautiful beaches, such as Krabi, Phuket, and Phi Phi on the west coast, or Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Koh Samui on the east coast. The best time to visit Southern Thailand is from February to April when the weather is nice and sunny.

Northern Thailand :If you are going to visit Northern Thailand – including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Sukhothai, and Pattaya – you can consider visiting from October to January .

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Best Times to Visit Vietnam

The weather varies in northern, central, and southern Vietnam. Although the best time for travel depends on the region you visit, November to April are the best months to travel in most places of the country. See more about the Vietnam weather .

North Vietnam : North Vietnam includes Halong Bay, Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, and other great destinations. The best time to visit is from October to April when the weather is warm and dry. In the mountainous regions, it can be covered in ice from December until January.

Central Vietnam : If you are planning to visit Hoi An, Nha Trang, Da Nang, and Hue in Central Vietnam, you can travel in the period from January to April . You can expect perfect beach weather — blue skies, warm sun, and gentle sea breezes.

South Vietnam : If you are traveling to South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Phan Thiet, and Mui Ne), the ideal time is from November to March . It can be hot from March to May, with an average temperature of up to 32°C/90°F.

Best Times to Visit Singapore

Singapore is a wonderful year-round destination with good weather. Unlike many destinations in Southeast Asia, there isn't that much of a difference between the wet season (October to March) and the slightly drier summer season (April to September).

You might find it strange that the peak season is from November to early January even though there is some rain and it is a little wet. Singapore is crowded with travelers, particularly during Chinese New Year.

If you want to avoid the crowds, you can visit between February and May when the country is not overloaded with too many tourists and the weather is slightly hot. June to August is the driest time although it is unavoidable to encounter flash thunderstorms and stifling humidity.

Best Times to Visit Cambodia

Weather-wise, the best time to go to Cambodia is between November and April when it is sunny and dry. It is perfect if you are going to spend some time on a beach or hike through the jungles of Cambodia.

If you want to experience the country's fresh and lush greenery and quiet temples , the wet season (May to October) can be a good time. Heavy rains can occur but they only last for 1 or 2 hours in the afternoon.

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Best Times to Visit Myanmar (Burma)

The best time to visit most of Myanmar is from November to February when there are warm and dry days.

If you intend to visit areas in and around Mandalay and Bagan , which are the hottest and driest regions of Myanmar, you'd better avoid March to May as temperatures can rise to over 40°C/104°F. The wet season from June to October is considered a good season even though there is a bit of rain and it is good to avoid the winter crowds.

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Best Time to Visit Laos

Laos, a small and landlocked country in Southeast Asia, has a dry season (October to late April) and a wet season (May to late September).

If you are looking for warm and dry weather and want to enjoy outdoor activities, the ideal months to travel in Laos are from November to January , with temperatures ranging from 14–26°C (57°–79°F). This is also an excellent time for exploring the Mekong River.

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Best Times to Visit Malaysia

Malaysia has a classic equatorial climate with plenty of sunshine, high temperatures, and wet months throughout the year.

The best month to visit Malaysia depends on which side of the country you are going to visit. The seasons on each side of the peninsula are different.

The best time to visit the western islands is from December to February, while the perfect time to visit the east coast is from June to August.

• 32-Day Grand Southeast Asia Expedition: Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, and Indonesia Tour

Best Times to Visit Indonesia

Indonesia is a year-round destination with warm tropical temperatures averaging 28°C/82°F throughout the year. The dry season in Indonesia spans from May to September and the wet season is between October and April.

If you plan to dive off the coast of Bali, Lombok, and Komodo National Park or want to plan to climb one of Indonesia's many volcanoes, the dry months from April to September are a great time.

If you are looking for good weather as well as fewer crowds, you can visit Indonesia in May, June, and September.

>>>Read about how to plan a trip to Thailand, Singapore and Bali

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide by Month

Click the sign of each month to check the travel guide information.

January Travel in Southeast Asia

January is one of the most popular travel periods for Southeast Asia. It's warm and dry in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Philippines, with temperatures hovering between 20°C (68°F) and the low 30s °C (86+°F) in most places.

Many visitors choose to spend their Christmas and New Year holidays on the sunny beaches. Diving and snorkeling are at their best during this period. Avoid the east coast of Malaysia and Bali, though, as it's the rainy season peak there.

You might like to join in Lunar New Year celebrations in (the Chinatowns of) these countries. In 2024, Lunar New Year is observed on February 9nd.

Reveal the top January destinations in Southeast Asia >>>

February Travel in Southeast Asia

Explore lively Bangkok in Thailand, Angkor Wat in Cambodia, and Ho Chi Minh in Vietnam in February before the heat of March. The temperature ranges between 20°C (68°F) and the low 30s °C (86+°F) in most places.

You are likely to experience rainfall only every four or five days, so you can spend the rest of your time trekking in the national parks, tasting yummy foods in the night markets, or listening to the holy chanting in the temples.

Book your hotels and flights 2–3 months in advance to ensure their availability and for better prices. Contact us for hotel recommendations.

Discover the must-visit spots in Southeast Asia this Febuary >>>

March Travel in Southeast Asia

The hot season arrives in March. Good deals for hotels and flights and fewer crowds make March a good month to travel for some.

With temperatures hitting the mid-30s °C (the 90s °F) on most days , March is a good time to swim in the sea, bath the elephants in a sanctuary or cruise on Halong Bay.

Start your touring/activities in the early morning to find some coolness.

Check more weather details, best places to go and costs in Southeast Asia in March >>>

April Travel in Southeast Asia

April is the hottest month in Southeast Asia. In some places, afternoon temperatures can reach 40°C (104°F).

A welcome chance to cool down comes with the water fights of Songkran Festival in Thailand from April 13th to 15th.

Laotians also celebrate their New Year from April 14th to 16th. It is a good opportunity to soak in Laos traditions, including washing Buddha statues, painting temples, candlelight processions around the temples, and splashing water on each other.

If you can handle the hot weather, April travel in Southeast Asia is full of traditional festivities. Find more weather details, best places to go and costs in Southeast Asia in April >>>

May Travel in Southeast Asia

May is the last month before the rainy season in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and the Philippines. Temperatures in many areas are 35–40°C (95–104°F) . But, compared to April, May sees a welcome drop in temperature in some regions.

Rainfall starts to increase towards the end of the month, with more than half of the month seeing short thunder showers that last for about an hour. For most of the day touring is not affected.

For sunny beaches, Indonesia and the east coast of Malaysia are great options.

Find more travel-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia in May >>>

June Travel in Southeast Asia

June is the shoulder season in mainland Southeast Asia as it's in the monsoon season. The average daily maximum reaches around 33°C (91°F) and the average daily minimum is around 26°C (79°F) .

Thailand can expect an average of 15 to 22 days of rain in June. However, the rain is usually short-lived, occurring in short bursts in the afternoon or evening.

Indonesia and Malaysia provide visitors more dry days and ripe fruits in June.

Compared with the summer holiday crowds in July and August, June is still a good time to go.

July Travel in Southeast Asia

Though still in the rainy season, in mainland Southeast Asia, you will encounter more visitors in July than in June , as July is school holiday time for many countries.

The short-lived rains usually occur in the afternoon or evening. The average temperature is around 29°C (84°F) , and there is not a big temperature difference between day and night.

July is the peak season for Malaysia's east coast and Indonesia because of their dry (drier) weather and the summer holidays.

Typhoons happen frequently in Halong Bay in Vietnam . Your cruise might be canceled for safety. Always get insurance if you wish to cruise at this time.

Get some ideas about the best destinations to go in Southeast Asia in July >>>

August Travel in Southeast Asia

Like July, August is still in the rainy season in Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. The rains can be sporadic and unpredictable. The average temperature in August is 29°C (84°F) . Indoor activities are more advisable.

You're suggested to buy insurance if you plan to take a Halong Bay cruise in Vietnam as typhoons are likely to stop some cruises.

Indonesia and Malaysia's East Coast could be a better choice if you are seeking boat trips on the sea and sunny beaches.

Make tour reservation at least 3 months in advance for better deals.

See the best destinations to go in Southeast Asia in August >>>

September Travel in Southeast Asia

September is the wettest month in most areas of Southeast Asia. Heavy downpours are expected in the afternoon and evening with daytime temperatures around 30°C (86°F) and nighttime temperatures about 25°C (77°F) .

You will see much lower traveler numbers in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand in September as the rainy season peaks and the summer crowds have gone. The harvesting of the terraced rice fields in Sapa in north Vietnam begins. The golden yellow views and farmers working in the fields make a Sapa trek even more rewarding.

It is still hot and dry in Indonesia. With better hotel deals than in July and August, September is good time to relax on the sunny beaches of Bali.

October Travel in Southeast Asia

From October, the rain starts to increase in Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia, while northern Southeast Asian countries are ready to welcome their dry season. The average daily maximum and minimum temperatures in October for most areas are around 31°C (88°F) and 24°C (75°F) respectively .

The cooler temperatures, clearer views, and fewer travelers make October one of the best times to visit Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

November Travel in Southeast Asia

From November, the rainy season sets in for Indonesia, while the dry season really begins in Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. November sees the start of Thailand's cool (warm) season. Days are usually hot (but not too hot) with balmy evenings. The average daily maximum is 31°C (88°F) and the average daily minimum is 24°C (75°F) .

Because of the pleasant weather and the Loy Krathong Festival (November 27th to 28th, 2023) , Thailand's peak travel season starts in November.

Avoid Koh Samui if you prefer sunny beaches. Unlike in Krabi or Phuket, November is the peak rainy month in Koh Samui and its side of the peninsula.

Unlock the best places to explore in Southeast Asia during November >>>

December Travel in Southeast Asia

December is good time for a trip to reward yourself for a year's hard work (before your accrued holiday is left untaken).

The temperature range is 24–32°C (75–89°F) on average . Pleasant weather and the Christmas and New Year holidays make travel businesses in Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia reach their busiest point in December. You're suggested to make reservations 3 months in advance for better prices and to ensure availability.

Near to the end of the year, hotel/flight rates will increase a lot (1.5 times or even double) based on the large demand. Christmas or New Year dinners are usually fully booked in popular hotels/restaurants. Book that early too!

Singapore and Thailand are two best places to experience the atomaspheric festivals. Check how to plan a trip to Singapore and Thailand

For more weather details, check Southeast Asia Weather in December

Travel in Southeast Asia Your Way

Southeast Asia is a beautiful year-round destination and you're bound to have a good time no matter when you visit. We take everything, including the weather, into consideration when designing the best possible itinerary for you.

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Travel to Central Asia – Which country should you visit?

By Joan Torres 8 Comments Last updated on April 24, 2024

I spent 5 months traveling through Central Asia and it was the trip of my lifetime.

It’s the most epic region I have ever been to, and not only because this used to be the heart of the Silk Road and has some truly legendary mountains but also because, despite being a barely visited region, it’s a very accessible, tourist-friendly destination which I would even recommend to my mom.

Central Asia, however, is pretty big, a region where you could spend months exploring and, for those who are short of time, choosing the right itinerary that fits their traveling needs can be a tough decision.

Therefore, it doesn’t surprise me at all when many readers email me asking:

I only have X weeks to travel in Central Asia, which countries would you recommend to me?

The truth is that the 5 Central Asian Republics are, on the one hand, very similar – probably because they are all former Soviet Republics, times in which Soviet leaders tried to implement homogeneity across their socialist state.

However, they are also very different, each country offering a truly unique experience.

In this blog, I wanted to give you a detailed overview of each one of the Central Asian Republics, as well as general travel tips for Central Asia.

In this Central Asia travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• What is Central Asia
• Best time to visit
• How to get in
• How to get around
• Is it safe?
• Travel Insurance
• Which country you should visit

Turkmenistan

• More resources

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What is Central Asia?

Note: Geographically, Central Asia is composed not only of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan but also Afghanistan , northern Pakistan, and Xinjiang province in China.

However, when you think about visiting Central Asia, most travelers refer to the 5 former Soviet Republics (also known as the Stans), which is what this travel guide is referring to as well.

If you want to know more about Pakistan, read my Pakistan archives .

⛅ Best time to travel to Central Asia

Most of Central Asia has a continental climate, with utterly hot summers and extremely cold winters but, since each country has something different to offer, each one has a specific best season to come over.

How did I organize my trip across the Stans?

As I told you in the introduction, I spent 5 months traveling in the Stans and, from a timing point of view, this is how I organized my itinerary:

• June 15th to August 15th: Kyrgyzstan
• August 15th to September 15th: Tajikistan
• September 15th to October 15th: Uzbekistan
• October 15th to November 15th: Kazakhstan

It wasn’t a coincidence, but I planned it based on the following criteria:

Visiting Central Asia in summer

Summer is the ideal season for visiting the mountain regions which, in my opinion, should be the highlight of any trip to Central Asia.

However, bear in mind that anywhere outside those areas, the weather will be very hot.

Best time for

Kyrgyzstan – Plenty of nomads and the best season for trekking.

Tajikistan – Same as Kyrgyzstan. If you only have 3 weeks in August, I actually recommend you combine Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

Kazakhstan – The southeastern part of Kazakhstan is a mountainous region that belongs to the Tien Shan range. In the east, you also find Katon-Karagay, but that’s very remote.

Not a good time for

Uzbekistan – The highlight of Uzbekistan is visiting cities like Khiva or Bukhara but, in summer, temperatures may reach over 40ºC, so it’s not a good time to visit them. I haven’t been in Uzbekistan during the summer months but during my journey, I met many travelers who were complaining about this.

Turkmenistan – It’s a desert country and, as such, the weather can be extremely hot in summer.

Some parts of Kazakhstan – Kazakhstan is vast and the mountain regions are just a tiny part of it, most of the country comprises endless steppe that becomes overwhelmingly hot in summer.

Moreover, bear in mind that summer is high season, which means the most popular places will be busy.

Read: tips & packing list for trekking in Central Asia

Visiting Central Asia in spring and autumn

In my opinion, these are the best seasons to visit the Central Asian Republics: most crowds are gone, the weather is pleasant and, if you come in late spring or early autumn, the mountains are still very accessible.

Uzbekistan – The weather is pleasant and the Silk Road cities are less busy.

Turkmenistan – Turkmenistan is free of crowds all year long but, like in Uzbekistan, spring and autumn have the most pleasant weather.

Kazakhstan – Except for the mountain regions, these seasons are the best to enjoy the rest of Kazakhstan, especially the southern part, which includes the Aral Sea, Shimkyent, Turkestan, etc.

Kyrgyzstan & Tajikistan – Unless you want to go trekking in very high altitudes (we got snow in the month of June), this should be the best time, as the mountains are very accessible, most backpackers are gone and nomads will still be there. By the way, the Fann Mountains in Tajikistan are best explored during this season.

If you come too early in spring or too late in autumn, you might not be able to go trekking or even camping in Kyrgyzstan , Tajikistan and Kazakhstan .

For example, I visited the mountainous region of Kazakhstan in November and had to skip any sort of trekking because it was already too cold.

Visiting Central Asia in winter

Most of Central Asia is covered by snow but you can still enjoy it somehow.

Uzbekistan – If you don’t mind sightseeing with freezing temperatures and gray skies, it shouldn’t be a bad time to visit Uzbekistan.

Kazakhstan – Same as Uzbekistan, but you really need to wear proper clothes.

Turkmenistan – If you don’t mind the cold, it shouldn’t be that bad!

Kyrgyzstan – In Kyrgyzstan, there is a ski resort, plus you can do some winter nomad sports in the area around Issy-Kul.

From meeting nomads to trekking and wandering around the mountains, winter is not a good time for any adventurous activity which, in my opinion, is the main highlight in Kyrgyzstan , Tajikistan and also Kazakhstan .

🛫 Best way to travel to Central Asia

How to travel to the stans by air.

With the region’s increase in popularity, today, traveling to the Stans is becoming easier than ever, and you can find direct flights from many cities in Europe, the Middle East , and Asia.

From Europe, the cheapest cities to travel to Central Asia is by flying to Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) and Almaty (Kazakhstan), cities where you can find daily flights with Pegasus.

Dushanbe (Tajikistan) is the second easiest city to travel to. You can find budget flights too, but they don’t have as many connections.

Tashkent , in Uzbekistan, has plenty of fights as well but flights to Uzbekistan are much more expensive due to airport taxes.

The capital of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat , is a pretty isolated city with expensive flights.

Do you know another of my favorite regions? The Horn of Africa , which includes countries like Ethiopia, Somalia or Eritrea CHECK ALL MY GUIDES HERE

How to travel to the Stans by land

You can travel to the Central Asian Republics from:

Entering Central Asia from Russia

From Russia, you can enter Kazakhstan from many different entry points, both by train, bus, or even in your own vehicle.

Entering Central Asia from China

From Xinjiang province, you can enter Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. I entered Kyrgyzstan via Irkeshtam Pass and here you can read my full report .

Entering Central Asia from Afghanistan

Afghanistan shares borders with Uzbekistan (very straightforward and easy border to use), Turkmenistan (which apparently is closed), and Tajikistan (the one that leads to the Wakhan is very safe, the other one not so much).

The security situation is changing constantly. Check my guide on how to travel safely in Afghanistan

Entering Central Asia from Iran

Iran shares a border with Turkmenistan and, assuming you have a valid visa, you can cross that border, no problem. Read my Iran travel guide .

Entering Central Asia from Azerbaijan

There is no border with this country but you can take a ferry across the Caspian Sea from Baku to the Kazakh city of Aktau. Moreover, as long as you have a valid visa, you can also take it from Baku to Turkmenbashi, in Turkmenistan. Here you can learn more about the Caspian Sea ferry .

🛺 How to travel around Central Asia

Traveling between the stans, crossing borders.

Except for a few specific borders which can only be used by nationals, today you can travel from and to any of the Stans, assuming you have a valid visa.

Transportation between the Stans

It’s pretty easy and you can cross all borders by either train, marshrutka, or local shared taxi. The only challenging border crossings (from a transportation point of view) would be between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, for the simple reason that it is a mountainous region with very limited public transportation.

For more information, I strongly recommend you check Caravanistan border crossing reports .

Transportation in Central Asia

The coolest thing about the Stans is that traveling around on a budget, by public transportation is very easy, as you can get to pretty much anywhere around the region by:

Travel by Marshrutka in Central Asia

Marshrutka means mini-bus in Russian and it is the main way of transportation across all former Soviet Union, from Belarus to Tajikistan. They go pretty much anywhere and leave once they are full.

Travel by a local shared taxi in Central Asia

Sometimes, the locals travel in shared taxis because they are faster than marshrutkas, or to reach faraway places where marshrutkas don’t go.

Travel by train in Central Asia

The train is a beautiful way to travel around Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, but in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan is not very convenient.

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Central Asia?

Fact: The Central Asian Republics are one of the safest places I have ever been to, no kidding.

I know that this is a difficult thing to prove with just words but the fact is that during my 5-month trip, I never had a single issue and, other than a few drunk men bothering me, everybody was pretty cool.

Moreover, the Stans is a region where you see a lot of solo female travelers, most of them claiming had a great experience with very few incidents.

Nicole has written a guide about it .

The dangers in Central Asia, however, are more related to the adventurous stuff.

In fact, I had a pretty bad horse accident in Tash Rabat , in which I hurt my back pretty badly and had to stay in bed for 2 weeks. It’s the only serious incident I have ever had when traveling.

Therefore, you must travel in Central Asia with proper travel insurance . More on that below.

🚑 Travel insurance for Central Asia

For traveling around Central Asia, you should get travel insurance with at least the following features and benefits:

• Covers adventure activities, including trekking in high altitudes
• Covers multi-country trips for up to 3 months, good for overlanding across the Stans

And, for that, I recommend IATI Insurance . It has budget plans too and readers of this blog get a 5% discount

The best country to travel in Central Asia – Which one should you visit?

Here’s a quick, but complete, overview of all the Stans.

Central Asia travel tip Many of you have emailed me saying that you will only have 3 weeks for traveling in Central Asia, yet you plan to visit at least 3 countries in such a short period of time. While the idea of visiting many countries might sound appealing, the only thing you will achieve with this is seeing nothing. Central Asia is a region made not to rush: spending a few days with nomads or enjoying the mountains are activities one should take easy, besides that moving from one place to another takes a lot of time. If you only have 3 weeks, I recommend you visit a maximum of 2 countries, preferably 1.

Visa for Kyrgyzstan – Most nationalities can get a 2-month free visa on arrival.

In my experience, this was the best country to visit in Central Asia

Lush green meadows, 7,000m-high snow-capped peaks, remote nomadic camps, and the land of horses.

Kyrgyzstan is the ultimate destination for mountain lovers and adventurous travelers, a country composed of some of the most epic mountains I have ever seen, some of them being highly accessible, while others being only suitable for real experts.

Moreover, Kyrgyzstan is a surprisingly easy and cheap country to travel to, with great tourist infrastructure.

In my experience, this was my favorite country to visit in Central Asia.

Top 5 experiences in Kyrgyzstan

Trekking in the Tien Shan range – The main reason you come to Kyrgyzstan. Just real epicness.

Staying with real nomads in a yurt camp – Kyrgyzstan is home to the most accessible nomadic culture ever. They are everywhere and, for very little money, you can stay in their yurts.

Trekking on the back of a horse – This is the land of horses and going over a mountain pass on a horse is a must.

Hanging out in Bishkek – The capital of Kyrgyzstan is surprisingly Westernized and a great city to take a couple-of-days-break.

Going to the Alay Valley and Lenin Peak base camp – My most favorite natural site in the country, bordering Tajikistan, this is the most impressive mountain region.

Kyrgyzstan is good for:

Trekking (all types of trekking)

Getting immersed in the nomadic culture

All Central Asia is cheap, but Kyrgyzstan is definitely the cheapest

Further reading:

• Kyrgyzstan, 1-month itinerary
• Tips for traveling to Kyrgyzstan
• A beginner’s guide to trekking in Kyrgyzstan

Visa for Tajikistan – Most nationalities can get a free visa on arrival but you’ll need a special permit to visit the GBAO region. Read this visa section for more information.

Far less visited than its neighbor Kyrgyzstan but equally epic, perhaps even more, Tajikistan is another mountain destination, the heart of the Pamir range and home to the Pamir Highway, one of the most celebrated and exciting roads in the world to drive along.

The mountains of Tajikistan are less green and cute than Kyrgyzstan, but that’s because they are wilder, more remote, which means that the tourist infrastructure is also poorer, so, if you are seeking a real off the beaten track experience and can’t decide between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, I definitely recommend Tajikistan.

Prices are quite similar, just slightly more expensive but, since some areas are very remote and not suitable for independent backpackers, the total cost can be considerably higher, especially if you travel the Pamir Highway.

5 Top experiences in Tajikistan

Driving the Pamir Highway – One of the most stunning roads in the world, if not the most.

Trekking in the Pamirs – Some of the wildest and most stunning treks ever but keep in mind that those mountains are tough.

Wandering along the Afghan border in the Wakhan Valley – An ancient Silk Road route that goes along the Afghan border and filled with epic fortresses and landscapes.

Discovering remote mountain villages in the Fann Mountains – The more accessible Fann Mountains are also home to unspotted rural villages and settlements.

Explore the millennial city of Khujand – One of the oldest cities in Central Asia is Khujand, a traditional city in its purest Tajik form.

Tajikistan is good for:

Epic road trips

Super remote, offbeat landscapes

• Tajikistan travel tips
• Pamir Highway travel guide
• A guide to the Wakhan Valley in Tajikistan

Visa for Uzbekistan – Some nationalities get a visa on arrival, but others need to apply for an e-visa- Read this visa guide for more information.

Once one of the most hermetic countries in Asia, with very strict visa policies for foreigners, Uzbekistan is today, the most tourist-friendly country to visit in Central Asia, and the only one where you already see some mass tourism evidence, even though – and to be fair – the vast majority of it is concentrated in just 3 cities, the rest of the country remaining quite unexplored.

Uzbekistan has opened its borders to show the rest of the world the majesty of what used to be the heart of the ancient Silk Road, a country filled with absolutely jaw-dropping mosques, shrines and old cities.

However, if you thought the Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are the only reason to travel to Uzbekistan you would be very wrong, because here you also find some off the beaten track gems, ranging from the dried-out Aral Sea to the less-visited Fergana Valley.

I loved Uzbekistan but, to be honest with you, it’s my least favorite country to travel in Central Asia but this is just my very subjective opinion, as when I travel, I prefer mountains and rural life over visiting cities.

Top 5 experiences in Uzbekistan

Checking out the mind-blowing mosques and madrassas – They are absolutely stunning, and the reason number one to come to Uzbekistan.

Traveling back to the Silk Road times – Bukhara, Samarkand and Khiva were some of the 3 most important cities on the Silk Road.

Visit the Aral Sea – The planet’s worst environmental disaster and you can visit a city with a harbor and no sea named Moynaq.

Visiting the Fergana Valley – A real off the beaten track region and the heart of Islam in Central Asia.

Walking among Soviet buildings in Tashkent – The capital of Uzbekistan is an old Soviet-planned city and a fun place to wander around for a few days.

Uzbekistan is good for:

Silk Road monuments & architecture

The best bazaars

A bit of off the beaten track stuff

• Travel tips for Uzbekistan
• Uzbekistan backpacking itinerary
• A guide to visit the Aral Sea in Uzbekistan

Visa for Kazakhstan – Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival valid for 30 days.

If you like visiting weird things and, at the same time, visiting the most Westernized city in Asia or checking out some drop-dead mountains, you are going to love Kazakhstan.

On the one hand, Kazakhstan is a huge country, the 9th largest country in the world and, in order to feel this vastness, I strongly recommend you cross the whole country on a Soviet train, from west to east.

On the other hand, this is home to some of the most off the beaten track attractions in Central Asia, ranging from the forbidden city of Baikonur to a former testing place for atomic bombs, the main city in the dried-out Aral Sea and Nur-Sultan (former Astana), the capital and a city that has quite a few peculiar and extravagant buildings to check out.

Moreover, the old capital Almaty is the most European-like city in all Asia and the mountains in the southeastern part of the country are just gorgeous, even though I couldn’t really enjoy them because I was there in November, but I did enjoy a lot traveling by train, the traditional Kazakh life in Shymkient, the Aral Sea and Baikonur.

Top experiences in Kazakhstan

Travel in a Soviet train through the steppe – Epic multi-day journeys through endless Kazakh steppe.

Discover the gorgeous mountains of southeastern Kazakhstan – Unbelievable scenery filled with alpine lakes and canyons.

Hang out in Almaty – The most European city in Asia, a city where I would not mind living for a while.

Visit the Aral Sea – The worst environmental disaster caused by humans and in Kazakhstan, you find the largest city, today mainly composed of a harbor without a sea.

Kazakhstan is good for:

Trekking (all types)

Train travel

Best city (Almaty)

Weird, offbeat stuff

• Kazakhstan travel tips
• Kazakhstan, 1-month itinerary
• Train travel in Kazakhstan

Visa – There are two types of visa: 1 ) Transit visa , which is a 5-day visa that you can only apply for if you enter overland and exit overland through two different countries. For example, Uzbekistan -> Turkmenistan -> Iran – 2) Tourist visa : You can get a longer, normal visa if you book a full tour with a valid tour operator.

Welcome to one of the most secretive countries in the world .

Along with Eritrea and North Korea, Turkmenistan is, sadly, one of the most repressive countries on Earth, the reason why this is also the most difficult destination to travel to in Central Asia (in fact, the only difficult one).

Actually, this is the only country in Central Asia I haven’t visited, basically because they denied me a visa when I applied from Tashkent . It is very high on my list and I am sure I will travel there soon.

Infamous for being ruled by an egocentric leader who spends billions in building nonsensical, and absolutely strange buildings to worship himself, Turkmenistan is the offbeat capital of Central Asia, but these weird things are not the only reason for visiting the country, but this is also home to some Silk Road wonders such as the city of Merv, and wonderful desert landscapes.

5 Top experiences in Turkmenistan

Exploring Ashgabat – A city made of marble and ridiculous monuments built with the sole purpose of satisfying the leader’s needless caprices.

Visiting Konye-Urgench – Minarets and turquoise-tiled mosques, like in Uzbekistan, but without souvenir shops.

Camping next to Darvaza crater – A living gas crater that has been burning for ages in the middle of the desert.

Checking out Merv – Probably, the most famous archeological site in Central Asia.

Wandering around Yangykala Canyon – Unique shapes, patterns, and colors, this desert is definitely worth to pay a visit.

Turkmenistan is good for:

Silk Road archaeological sites, cities and monuments

Desert landscapes

• Turkmenistan, 1 week itinerary
• Turkmenistan travel tips

📚 Best books about Central Asia and the Silk Road

These are just my top 5 books.

For more options, read: Best books on the Silk Road

Sovietistan, by Erika Fatland

A solo female traveler who travels across the 5 Stans, unveiling and discovering the darkest and most offbeat secrets in Central Asia.

Dictators without borders, by Alexander A. Cooley Ph.D. and John Heathershaw

International politics and the influence of Central Asia in the Western world, and how Western Governments have been involved in plenty of dirty businesses with Central Asian dictators.

Turkestan solo, by Ella Maillart

A solo female traveler who traveled in Central Asia in the 30s, so this travelogue will help you understand what was it like to travel in Central Asia during the Soviet Union times.

The Silent steppe, by Mukhamet Shayakhmetov

The story about the forced displacement that millions of Kazakh nomads suffered during Stalin’s regime, and the author is a survivor who tells the struggles that he and his family had to go through.

Murder in Samarkand, by Craig Murray

The human rights abuse in Uzbekistan during the regime from the previous president Islam Karimov, who ruled the country from its independence until 2016.

❗ More resources for traveling in the Stans

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

For everything related to visas, updated information on border crossings, etc., your best source is going to be Caravanistan .

Guidebooks for backpacking in Central Asia

Central asia travel guide by lonely planet.

If you are traveling to several countries in the region, you may want to get the LP, the most complete travel guide to Central Asia. Since they talk about 5 countries in one single book, however, the information is a bit limited.

Central Asia travel guides by Bradt

If you want to get deeper in each one of the countries, I strongly recommend you get Bradt guides, as they have one separate book for each country.

Bradt is my favorite brand when it comes to guidebooks because their information is always so insightful and they put a focus on off-the-beaten-track places.

• Kyrgyzstan Bradt Guide
• Tajikistan Bradt Guide
• Kazakhstan Bradt Guide
• Uzbekistan Bradt Guide
• Turkmenistan Bradt Guide

You may also want to get a Kindle, so you don’t carry so many books with you.

Hi Joan i read your interview on superblogging.com. It was very insightful. I am looking at starting a blog in 2 languages, I am just a bit confused, so you create the same post in 2 languages, but how do you add the flag feature that changes the language. Thanks Devyani

Hi Devyani, The ”flag” feature is just an option available in WPML, and it’s optional. The reason I have it is that it can be good for SEO purposes, since you are directly telling Google that there’s a translation available for that specific post.

I was disappointed to read your article. If you didn’t want to travel to Uzbekistan, why did you come? What you write is your right. but it is necessary to treat that country and its people with a little respect

what are you talking about dude

Hi Joan I am thinking on travelling to Central Asia this summer, in August or September, for 3 weeks. At the beginning I was thinking on visiting Uzbekistan but then, because maybe it will be hot, and also because I have read many articles here, I am thinking on Kyrgyzstan (and possibly Tajikistan too, or probably not). My doubt is, if I do it as a solo traveller, I think that maybe all the hiking alone could be boring and even dangerous. I am learning a bit of Russian and I think I will be able to communicate with locals, but not too much. So probably Uzbekistan being more a city travel will be better for a solo trip. I would like to know your opinion, thank you so much in advance.

Hello Antonio! I like traveling to countries during the right season and basically, August is not a good season for Uzbekistan, with temperatures in cities being over 40ºC. On the other hand, August is the best season for hiking in Kyrgyzstan. Go to Karakol and do stay in a hostel. Many people go there just for trekking, and you’re likely to meet other travelers you could share the hike with, not to mention that some trails might be busy with other travelers too.

Thank you so much for your answer Joan!!

Central Asia is a captivating region to explore, and this comprehensive guide provides valuable insights for travelers. The author’s personal experience and recommendations make it even more enticing. The information on visas, best times to visit, transportation options, and safety is particularly helpful. The description of Kyrgyzstan as a paradise for mountain lovers and adventurous travelers adds to the allure. Overall, this guide is a fantastic resource for anyone planning a trip to Central Asia.

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Home » Itineraries » Southeast Asia Backpacking Itinerary: A 6 Month Route

Southeast Asia Backpacking Itinerary: A 6 Month Route

This Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary is designed to help you plan a great trip around the region. It covers the typical backpacking route of Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. It then moves onto Peninsular Malaysia and Indonesia, with Singapore to finish. These are great diverse countries with lots to do and see. I have also included Myanmar at the end, should you wish to visit, however this is dependant on the political situation in the country.

This route is by no means rigid and you can amend it as you see fit. Its purpose is to inspire you, to help you decide where to visit, should you visit the region. Use this as a guide to plan to your trip to see what appeals to you. Of course if you want to follow the entire route I think it really does cover the area well.

This Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary should take around 6 months to complete if you are travelling at a ‘standard’ pace. This means where you can spend a few days here and a few days there. Do as feels right without any need to rush.

It covers a wide variety of places and is designed to show you not only the highlights of each country but some real local gems to. It is based on staying in hostels or guesthouses, and generally taking buses or minivans as the method of transport. Though you could also catch trains in parts of Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia.

Start and end points

Bangkok is selected as the starting point as it’s a major transport hub. It’s an easy city to introduce you into the Southeast Asian way of life. From here you can start exploring the rest of Thailand. The country receives millions of tourists each year and is well set up for backpackers. This is great as you can settle into your rhythm and find out what works for you.

Singapore makes a natural end point, though Bali in Indonesia might be a better option. As with Bangkok, Singapore is a major transport hub, from which you can continue your travels elsewhere or head home. 

If you decide to visit Indonesia then I would still recommend Singapore as your last destination. You can always head straight from Malaysia to Indonesia, or go via Singapore and then head back. This is unless you are heading to Australia, New Zealand or surrounding countries. In that case you are probably best to fly out from Bali. This is based on the idea that generally you can get cheap flights from Bali to Singapore, though of course you might find a better deal going from Bali elsewhere.

They key is to be flexible and check your options before you commit.

I haven’t covered The Philippines or Borneo in this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary. I intend to visit them in the future and add them as extensions.

The route this Southeast Asian backpacking itinerary takes goes like this:

• North Thailand
• South Thailand
• Peninsular Malaysia

If your starting point is Australia or New Zealand, I would recommend doing this route in reverse, beginning with Indonesia and then moving onto Singapore, then onto Malaysia etc.

You can also find Myanmar (as an option, please check the political situation) at the end of this post. If you do visit Myanmar, it make sense to fly there from either Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur. So for the above 6 month route insert it between/around South Thailand and Malaysia. You can check current UK government travel advice for Myanmar here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/myanmar

Have a play around with the map to look at the route and the destinations. Hopefully you will feel inspired and it will help with planning your ultimate 6 month Southeast Asian backpacking itinerary!

Thailand (Round 1 – The North)

Lets begin!

Start your journey by flying into Bangkok   and taking a couple of days to explores its temples and acclimatise yourself to the region. It’s a great city to start any Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary as it’s well set up for backpackers. The Grand Palace and Wat Pho can be done together in a day. They make for a nice introduction to Buddhist culture. Khao San Road is big backpacker area so you can easily find people in hostels to go out there with. It’s a great place to make some new friends right away.

Before you head north go westwards, pop over by bus or minivan to Kanchanaburi . Here you can see some World War 2 history in the form of the infamous Bridge Over The River Kwai and the Death Railway. Take a day trip to the beautiful Erawan Waterfalls and view its 7 layers. Go early so you can bus it back into town as they stop running late afternoon.

Then it’s time to start your path up the country. It’s incredibly cheap to catch a train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya   and only takes a couple of hours. It and Sukhothai   (you can take a train to Phitsanulok then bus it there) are both home to UNESCO world heritage sites. These are ancient ruined Thai cities and are well worth 3 or so days between them to explore. Both are former capitals of kingdoms that preceded Siam (which in turn became Thailand).

Embrace culture in Northern Thailand

Then it’s onto Chiang Mai   with its many attractions. Spend up to a week in the area visiting temples, enjoying great food, trekking in Doi Inthanon National Park and visiting the Elephants at the Elephant Nature Park , a sanctuary which seeks to help and protect them. Take a minivan to Pai which is a backpacker town in the mountains. Chill out for a few days, visiting waterfalls, hot springs, caves and backpacker bars! Pai is a big hub for backpackers, and many stay quite awhile. When I visited I planned on 3 days and stayed for 6!

Next up is Chiang Rai , home to the famous Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple) and its effective counterpart Baan Dam (Black House). Since I visited a ‘Blue Temple’ has now also opened and comes highly recommended.

Last stop for now in Thailand is the border town of Chiang Kong. It’s easily reached by local bus where you can stay the night before crossing the border to Laos. Whilst it may not have the big attractions of the above places, it’s nice to see what life is alike in a small border town.

Northern Laos

Once you’ve got your visa and headed into Houay Xay and secure your place on the 2 day, 1 night Slow Boat journey along the Mekong. It’s a fun way to enjoy the slow-paced river life and make new backpacker friends aboard the boat. You’ll stop for the night in Pak Beng where there will be a scramble for guesthouse rooms.

Once you arrive in Luang Prabang take your time to explore the laid back city and be sure to famous the famous Kuang Si waterfalls, renown for their natural beauty.  

Then head north to Nong Khiaw . You can spend some time in the town if you like it, it’s very scenic, and then head by boat along to Muang Ngoi Neua   where you can chill for a while and then do some trekking with a local guide to stay with a hill tribe.

Central Laos

Head back to Luang Parabang then onwards to the backpacker town of Vang Vieng , known for tubing and parties but also a nice place to chill out and appreciate life. Just pick your accommodation carefully if you want to be able to sleep! You can also spend hours just sat in a cafe watching Friends! The 90’s TV show is a popular one here with bars/cafes based around its viewing!

Then it’s onto Vientiane which is a good place to sort your visa for Vietnam, though you will have to know the dates of your visit. Whilst it is the capital of Laos I don’t think it’s that great for backpackers. So don’t plan to dwell long! I’d advise to get the visa sorted asap. However do be sure to stop by the COPE museum. Here you will learn about the horrors inflicted on the Laos people in the ‘secret war’. This was an American bombing campaign inflicted upon Laos in the Vietnam war.

Then it’s time to head off the beaten track again, and Konglor is a great place to get away from the traditional route as it has very few overnight tourists, just handful each day, though there is a steady stream to visit Konglor Cave. Some people also choose to do the (Motor) Bike Loop from Thakhek (which includes Konglor) and everyone I know who’s done it has enjoyed it.

Southern Laos

Heading down the country will require at least passing through Savannakhet and given the sheer amount of time the bus journeys take it’s wise to stay in Pakse for the night, even though the town itself is nothing special. Although very backpackers go there I really recommend a day in Champasak as it has the largest Khmer ruins outside of Cambodia which are fun to explore for the afternoon, and you can spend the evening relaxing by the riverside in what is a very quiet peaceful little town.

The 4000 Islands are a wonderful place to spend a few days doing not a lot. Don Det is the main backpacker island here, turn up and grab yourself a bungalow (I recommend West facing for great views of sunset) and chill out in a hammock for a while. You can also head over to Don Khon to see the beautiful Somphamit Waterfalls. Consider a boat trip too around the islands for sunset. It’s a great spot on this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary to recharge before journeying on. 

Then it’s decision time – Vietnam or Cambodia?

It’s easier to get to Cambodia from the 4000 islands, but personally when I made this trip I went for Vietnam. This required me to head back up to Savannakhet and then across to Dansavan. I crossed the border and somehow flagged down a minivan. They took me to Đông Hà and then put me onto another van which took me to my goal – Huế.

It wasn’t easy and if I had to do it again I would do it differently. I’d take a night bus from the 4000 islands back to Vientiane. Then I would either fly or long distance bus it to Hanoi from there.  

Why Vietnam first? Because you can work your way from top to bottom of the country. Then head into Cambodia and from there into Thailand again with relative ease.  You can see from the map points how it makes logistical sense once you’ve got from the 4000 islands to Hanoi.  Of course you could skip the 4000 islands all together. Though they are an awesome place to relax for a few days! Do what feels right for you.

But if you want to visit Cambodia before Vietnam simply swap the 2 countries around here. Then do Vietnam in reverse order, flying from Hanoi to Bangkok at the end.

Northern Vietnam

The capital Hanoi is a great base for backpackers and there are plenty of museums to keep you occupied when you’re not wandering the streets of the old quarter dodging motorbikes or hanging out in backpacker bars.  

Take the bus to SaPa  and go trekking with a local hill tribe guide. The mountain scenery is superb and the area is famous for its rice terraces. You can stay overnight in a home stay which is a really worthwhile experience.

After passing back through Hanoi over to Cat Ba Island from which you can also take a tour of the scenic Halong Bay .  If you’re feeling active Cat Ba is a good place to go rock climbing or Kayaking. The local operators will take you out to their own private islands which is very cool!

The Middle Bit

Phong Nah has only opened up to tourists in the past few years. Its home to the largest cave in the world, Hang Sơn Đoòng. Whilst you won’t be able to see that (only 400 people per year and a few thousand dollars in price) there are plenty of other caves to explore. Phong Nah Cave and Tien Son Cave are 2 you can reach by river boat. Join a tour of the park where you can do the longest zipline in Vietnam and experience the Paradise Cave and Dark Cave. Bring swimwear – to say it’s muddy is understatement of epic proportions! Don’t worry they have lockers.

Huế is home to the Imperial City. Whilst it was badly damaged by French bombing and fighting in the Vietnam-American war it’s still worth checking out. There are also some cool Pagoda’s and a good backpacking scene.

As you head downwards next stop is Hội An , with its beautiful old city which served as a trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries and has an interesting blend of cultural influence including Japanese and Chinese. Its also famous for its tailors and pretty shop fronts. Be sure to stay out by the beach for a day or 2 as well for some relaxation. An Bang has some good accommodation options right by the beach. This includes the wonderful ‘Under The Coconut Tree’ which has dorms and private bungalows.

Southern Vietnam

There is a lot to see and do in and around Da Lat , and be sure to check out the 100 Roofs Café which blends a bar with a maze with a haunted house. Sound fun? It is! The designer also built the Crazy House which has to be experienced to be believed. Outside the city you will find the Dalanta Waterfall complete with one of the coolest roller coaster experiences. Then head to the mountains where you can get great views from LangBiang. Plus my all time favourite hostel, Cozy Nook, is located here!

When in Mui Ne   take a tour of the fairy stream, fishing village and sand dunes (white and red), they are cheap and it’s worth it. The chill out on the beach, which has many kite surfers to watch (or join in if you fancy it!)

The frantic Ho Chi Minh City (aka Saigon) can be a bit much at times. Loads of traffic and people hassling you in the street (in the backpacking district). But still a trip to the Củ Chi tunnels used by the Viet Cong and a visit to the War Remnants museum will really hit home the horrors of war.

The Mekong Delta – heading to Cambodia

Be picky when choosing a tour of the Mekong Delta , go for one which has good reviews online as they can be a bit hit and miss but are worth it for their look at local life on the waterways. Plus you can take one that includes border crossing by boat into Cambodia.  Which is a lot quicker and easier than the bus routes!

The capital

Start your time here with a trip to the royal palace grounds in Phnom Penh before preparing yourself to learn about the genocide of the Khmer Rouge with visits to the S21 Prison and the Killing Fields. It is a harrowing experience.

Pop up to Kratie to see the endangered Irrawaddy river dolphins in the Mekong river.

Take note that a lot of travel in Cambodia will require passing through Phnom Penh whichever way you’re going.  The infrastructure here is understandably lacking given what happened under the Khmer Rouge.

Those famous ruins

Siem Reap is the base from which to see The Temples Of Angkor , including of course Angkor Wat and many others. You can buy a 3 day pass to the Temple zones. Unless you’re on a flying visit this is advised as there is a lot to see! Siem Reap itself is a bit of  party town, its main street is named ‘Pub Street’ after all.

Head on over to Battambang where you can watch over a million Bats leave their cave in a stream that lasts for over half an hour, as they head out hunting for the night. Visit the killing caves to learn more about the horrors of the past.

The south coast

The riverside town of Kampot is a nice place to relax for a couple of days. Be sure to head up into the mountains to see the ruins of Bokor, a French colonial mansion and church. Kep is only 45 minutes drive away, with a pleasant beach and a national park you can wander around in. If you fancy it you can visit the secluded Rabbit island from here. 

Sihanoukville is somewhat overrun with tourists whose main purpose is to drink, but venture away from town to the Otres beaches for some quiet and to be rewarded by beautiful sunsets. It’s also the gateway to the islands of  Koh Rong , Koh Rong Sanloem and Koh Ta Kiev . Koh Rong’s main beach isn’t that pleasant but the others on the island are superb. Sok San’s white beach in particular where you can rent a bungalow for a while! Koh Rong Sanloem’s M’Pai Bay is a chilled out backpacker village.

Many people choose to cross back in Thailand at Poipet but this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary recommends going via Koh Kong . You can take a night or 2 town and take a tour to visit the uninhabited island.  It’s owned by the military and overnight stay is forbidden, which means empty beaches! The border crossing itself is easy. Take a Tuk Tuk to the border. Then once you’ve sorted your Thai entry you can take a minivan to Trat.

Thailand (Round 2 – The Islands)

Island life

Trat.  Whether you stay a night here or not is up to you. There’s not a lot to see in truth, it’s really just a transit point. Go by ferry to get to the nearby islands, or head by road to Bangkok. The main island nearby is Koh Chang (Big) which has multiple beaches. Lonely beach is the popular party spot so you might want to stay elsewhere then head there in the evening. Pyjamas hostel is right by Klong Prao beach so is a good backpacker option. If you fancy it you can always visit the islands of Koh Mak or Koh Kut whilst here too.

Then it’s time to head back through Bangkok before you head down south. Take your time to get supplies if you need them. Bangkok is also a great place to do things like go to the cinema or browse shopping malls, so if you need a small time out from backpacking consider staying a few days.

Next up take the train to Chumphon as it’s pretty cheap. From here you can take the ferry to 3 of Thailand’s most famous islands. Koh Tao , famous for its diving and scenic viewpoint, Koh Phangan which hosts the Full Moon Party so is the big party spot once a month, but quieter other times, and Koh Samui which has both quiet and loud spots. The ferry’s tend to go early in the morning, so you’ll probably need a night in Chumphon before catching them.

If you want to do a Full Moon party, check here for dates .

Once you’ve finished visiting these islands you can then take a ferry to Surat Thani on the mainland. From here where you can catch a bus or mini van to your next stop on this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary. 

Stop for a night or two in Krabi Town and visit the Tiger Cave Temple (no actual Tigers).  Here you can climb up a long flight of steps (1,237 steps to the summit) to get a great view of the surrounding area. Krabi is on the mainland but still has parts that can only be reached by boat. This is due to the area’s dense jungle. Head to Ao Nang to catch a boat to Tonsai   which is backpacker village in the jungle, a haven for hippies and rock climbers. You can walk across the beach or through a small part of the jungle to reach Railay which has beautiful beaches (West Railay and Phranang) and is a very popular destination. Stay here if you don’t fancy a jungle bungalow, though the prices are significantly more.

More Islands!

Head back to Krabi town before deciding where to head next. If you’re enjoying the popular islands then Koh Lanta , Koh Phi Phi and Phuket are all nearby. The latter is the largest island in Thailand and a very popular holiday destination. Koh Phi Phi’s popularity soared after the film ‘The Beach’ was filmed there. If you fancy something more quiet, head up to Ranong and take a ferry to Koh Phayam . It’s a quiet paradise island with beautiful beaches and very few people on them. Nearby is the smaller Koh Chang which is of the same theme. Both are ideal for a few days away from it all!

Moving on Thailand you could either head south and cross by land or return to Bangkok and take a flight.

This segment of the Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary covers Peninsular Malaysia .  Many backpackers explore what Kuala Lumpur has to offer in a couple of days, the Batu Caves and the Petronas Twin Towers are the 2 big ones here. Though invest some more time in the city and you can discover much more. Highlight include the amazing Islamic Arts Museum and the view from the KL Tower. From here take a bus to Cameron Highlands and see the impressive tea plantations, stay in Tanah Rata which is the biggest of the towns in this old British Colonial Hill Station. The take a bus and boat trip to the village of Kuala Tahan . From here you can explore the oldest rainforest in the world, Taman Negara !

Colonial History

This Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary now move onto with the British Straits Settlements. Explore the streets of  Georgetown on the island of Penang . Here you will find street art and Chinese temples, and can take a bus Penang Hill too for great views over the city. Then Malacca which has interesting blend of history and culture from in Chinese influences as a trading port. It also has some great street art to check out. It’s easy to get a bus from here to Singapore to continue this 6 month Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary. Stop at Johor Bahru if you want one more night in Malaysia and experience life in a border city. Or alternatively head back to Kuala Lumpur for a flight to Indonesia.

Singapore and Indonesia

At this part of your Southeast Asia backpacking trip it would be wise to have a plan in action regarding flights. It could work out best for you to go next to Indonesia, either straight from Malaysia or via Singapore. Or it might make sense to visit Singapore first and then end this route by flying out of Bali.

For the purpose of this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary I’ve decided to go with Indonesia first, and end with Singapore. But it could also work the other way around, have a good look at flights and figure out what gives you best value (in both time and money).

The listed countries in this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary cover around 6 months worth of travel. If you want to extend this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary then Indonesia is a great choice to spend more time in. It is of course a huge country, comprising of 17,508 islands. What I’ve listed here for this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary covers around 3 to 4 weeks worth of travelling. You could add places like Sumatra and Sulawesi and really explore the country. Be sure to check visa requirements though, generally a visa on arrival grants you up to 30 days. So you would need to get a visa in advance if you’re thinking of doing much more.

Culture and Nature 

Yogyakarta  is great place to start, you can fly here direct from Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. It’s a cultural hub and you can visit the amazing temples of Borobudur and Prambanan from the city. Then head to Mount Bromo and take a look into an active volcano! Crossing over to Bali you can experience Balinese culture and religion in Ubud . The beautiful rice fields are a great thing to see here too. Then check out some of the beaches. You also have the opportunity to visit another active Volcano. A trek up Mount Batur for sunrise is a popular excursion here.

Sunsets and Dragons

From Bali you take a boat over to the Gili Islands . Gili Trawangan is the party island here. The other 2 are more relaxed. Gili Air is the best for backpackers who want a social vibe without the party pressure. Flying from Bali (or taking a boat via Lombok) you can reach Flores. From here you can take a boat tour to explore the Komodo National Park . The major highlight for many here is the opportunity to see the Komodo Dragons who live in the islands. Afterwards head back to Bali for your flight out of the country.

The city-state is major transport hub and therefore a natural end point for this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary. A good stop whether you are planning to continue to Borneo or The Philippines, head home or go on elsewhere. But lets not focus just on the end of the journey here, Singapore is worthy addition to any Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary in it’s own right. There’s plenty of attractions to keep you busy for a couple of days (or longer) before you do.

The Gardens By The Bay are awe inspiring modern construction, with an amazing light show every evening. China Town and Little India are well worth explore, especially for the food! And there are many museums including the Asian Civilisations Museum which has a huge detailed collection covering the region. Singapore really has a lot to offer and if it’s your last stop on your Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary then it’s a good one to end with.

Visiting Myanmar

The political situation in Myanmar has changed a lot over the last decade. When I visited it was before the 2021 military coup and this will obviously have an effect on travel to the country going forward. I really recommend checking the political situation before you and checking what travel restrictions are in place. I strongly advise not visiting until democracy is restored. The country is in a civil war at present. If you do decide to visit Myanmar be sure to have sorted an e-visa online before you head there. It’s probably best to fly into Yangon from Bangkok, and out via Mandalay.

Starting out

Fly into Yangon   and spend a couple of days here. There’s plenty of Buddhist sites here including the huge Shwedagon Paya. The downtown area is full of interesting colonial buildings and local life. 

Myanmar’s central plains are home to the magnificent temples of Bagan . Over 2000 temples constructed between the 9th and 13th centuries still remain here, marking its legacy as the capital of the Kingdom Of Pagan.

The 3 day trek from Kalaw to Inle Lake is a popular highlight and it’s easy to see why, you stay with locals and get a really good insight into life in the area as well as trekking through its amazing scenery. Sort the trek when you arrive in Kalaw. Be sure to meet your guide beforehand and check other options if you’re not keen on them. There are usually groups going so you can join one (if you don’t have one yourself). It makes the journey more fun as you have people to chat with.

When you arrive at Inle stay in Nyaungshwe where the wonderful Song Of Travel hostel caters for backpackers, along with numerous guesthouses. You can take a boat tour of the lake to see local life on it.

Getting off the beaten track

If you’re feeling adventurous head down Loikaw . Not visited by many backpackers, you can take a guide to see local villages and the tribes that inhabit them. It may be worth trying to arrange this whilst in Nyaungshwe. These villages have only just opened up to tourists and there’s little infrastructure in place.

The bus journey to Hsipaw is a long and windy one but it’s worth it as it’s a friendly town with good trekking options to stay with local villages. Mr Charles is the big guesthouse in town and has good options but i’d recommend Lily The Home as the trek I did with them was great.

Afterwards take the train across the Gokteik Viaduct, it’s a really scenic ride and crossing the viaduct is an experience you’ll remember! Get off at  Pyin Oo Lwin and enjoy the beautiful National Kandawgyi Botanical Gardens for the afternoon.

Take a shared taxi to   Mandalay where you can explore the religious sites and visit the famous U-Bein Bridge before your flight out of the country.

This brings the destination part of this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary to an end. Now for some advice about how to organise your trip.

Planning the details.

Before you head off there are of course somethings you need to consider.

When to go?

November is the ideal month to begin this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary, should you be able to pick as you please. This is so you can avoid ‘rainy season’ and acclimatize yourself to the heat. It won’t all be sun, you will come across some colder conditions in Northern Vietnam in December and January time. And should you choose to visit, Myanmar does get very hot in April. But on the whole, starting your 6 months in November should give you a good balance.

Of course this date might not be practical, so as a guide for planning bear in mind the following. March to August is generally going to be very hot in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. Rainy season generally starts around May, and the storms can be very big. There can be flooding, for example Bangkok has suffered much with this in the past. September and October are when raining season is at it’s most wettest.

Take note that this is different in Malaysia and Indonesia. Malaysia’s west coast experience’s its rainy season from around April to October. East coast Malaysia then gets its rainy season from November to March. Indonesia generally experiences its dry season from May to September.

Air pollution is also a factor to consider. I would advise against travelling to Northern Thailand between January and March as air quality can become very low and hazardous. This is because of ‘smoky season’ where the farmers burn the land to prepare it for crops.

Budgeting for this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary

Generally South East Asia is very cheap to travel, especially when compared to Europe or North America. Of course how much you spend will vary depending on how many activities you wish to participate in. Things like rock climbing and kayaking are great fun but do add a big chunk to your daily spend. You don’t want to miss out though so always have some extra cash for activities.  And of course alcohol adds a big chuck to your budget to, if you’re a big drinker! This Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary covers many spots where it’s easy to meet other backpackers. And whilst partying isn’t the focus on this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary, there is plenty of opportunity to do so if you wish.

Treks however are great value for money when overnight accommodation and meals are included. Don’t forget that when negotiating a price, it might seem expensive but don’t forget about these 2 things.

In general i’d say plan for around 1000$ a month. This is including everything apart from your flights to and from the region. And your immunizations before you go of course! Don’t forget them.

Cultural considerations

You may be packing for many beach days but don’t forget that you will need to ‘cover up’ when you visit temples. This means covering your shoulders and your legs to below the knee. If you don’t you will cause offence in Buddhist temples and other holy sites. You would likely not be allowed entry if they have staff working there. Usually there are clothes available to rent to cover up but it’s better to wear your own.

You can read my specific advice on Buddhism here .

Note that this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary covers several predominantly Buddhist countries but you will encounter various religions over the region. Especially in Malaysia, which is a Muslim country also home to many Hindus as well as Buddhists. And also Indonesia, which is Muslim with a significant Hindu population in Bali and Christian populations dotted around.

Visas 

Make sure you check the visa requirements for your nationality before you enter a country. Whist many countries in South East Asia do offer ‘visa on arrival’ make sure you qualify for it. Check how much you will need to pay so you have the currency ready at the border post.  It will be time limited too. Vietnam for example offers 14 days for some nationalities. I personally don’t think this enough time to really explore the country, so I got a visa in advance in Laos. Also before you fly out check your airline’s requirements. Sometimes ‘visa on arrival’ technically requires you to have outbound travel booked. Often airlines are much more concerned with this than border officials.

If you are planning to get visas in advance at embassies remember to check public holidays and visa process times. You don’t want to get stuck somewhere for longer than intended because you are waiting for a visa. For example during the Buddhist celebrations of Songkran in Thailand and Thingyan in Myanmar you will find their embassies closed. Make sure you check the dates first.

Going alone?

There are loads of people who travel solo and Southeast Asia is a popular place for it. Don’t worry about meeting people, you will come across loads who want to hang out. Staying in hostels is a good way to do this. Use hostel booking sites to read reviews before you go, so you can find an atmosphere you will like. For example to check whether it’s a party hostel or not, you may or may not want that so find out beforehand. For some more tips check out my Solo Travel Advice.

Making your own Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary

This Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary is of course not rigid. I have made it to help people plan their own journeys, not for it to be stuck to precisely. If you have your own particular interests then you will want to focus more on them. Research is of course fun but don’t be afraid to figure stuff out as you go. Other backpackers are a great source of information. The key is to be flexible, don’t book stuff too far in advance unless you absolutely you have to. Give yourself room to amend plans and you will be happier for it.

I also recommend using this post in conjunction with my Southeast Asia Highlights to help build your bucket list. It features a collection of my favourite experiences in the region.

Yes, it is relatively safe. Violent crime is low. Your main concern should be petty theft, which means always keeping your stuff safe. But this goes for travel anywhere, I wouldn’t say Southeast Asia was ‘worse’ than anywhere else. In fact, it’s safer than many western countries.

These are of course real concerns, and I advise taking precautions. In terms of malaria you should check with your medical provider before you go. If you’re planning to enter any high risk zones, it’s definitely advised to take antimalarials. In terms of dengue, there is currently no specific treatment available. You should do what you can to prevent yourself being bitten by mosquito’s. Put on bug spray that is 50% DEET (children use 15% to 30%). Try to cover to your wrists and ankles. Wearing loose fitting clothes as they can bite through tight clothes. If you can sleep under a mosquito net.

Yes. I really recommend that you get everything you can. Plan in advance as some courses take months to administer.

I wrote this itinerary based on six months as that is generally regarded as a decent amount of time to backpack the region. I have certainly met many people doing six months here either before or after working in Australia, for example. Personally though I say if you can do longer than six, then do longer.

Want more Southeast Asia backpacking tips? Click here to check them out.

More detailed itineraries:

As well as this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary I have also developed more detailed itineraries that cover the areas mentioned here. Click the relevant link below to go to the itinerary:

I hope you found this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary useful and are inspired to go on your own trip! If you enjoyed this article feel free to connect with me on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram !

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Solo female travel anywhere and everywhere.

I traveled the world for one year for less than $10,000

How much does one year of travel in Asia cost? Here’s how much I spent during one year of backpacking in Asia (Eurasia, to be precise), plus some tips on how you, too, can travel long-term on a budget.

Holy sh*t, I’ve been on the road for more than a year.

It seems like a crazy long time… but it doesn’t feel like it. The only indicators I have of my time on the road are my deteriorating English skills, woefully stained clothes, and of course, depleted bank account.

… BUT. My bank account is far less painful to look at than I thought it might be.

I expected to spend about €10,000 each in one year of travel, and I’d saved around €12,000 before leaving. However, I ended up spending about €8,000 after 12 months of travel in Eurasia.

Chill, right?

Table of contents

• How much does one year of travel in Eurasia cost?
• My backpacker spending habits
• Backpacking isn’t as expensive as you think

Tips for backpacking on a budget

• Resources for saving and funding travel

2020 note: When I wrote this post back in 2017, I was traveling with my then-boyfriend. We since split up —oops!—so read this knowing we were sharing costs. Traveling solo is slightly more expensive, though traveling solo on the same budget is absolutely possible. I do it now!

How much does one year of backpacking in Eurasia cost?

I spent exactly €8,026 ($8,909) after 12 months of traveling in Eurasia. On average, I spent €22 ($24.50) per day.

In that time, I traveled to 10 countries:

Afghanistan

These countries were chosen primarily because they’re awesome, but also because they’re relatively affordable since I hold strong currencies . A month of backpacking in Armenia is going to be a lot cheaper than a month in Argentina. Just sayin’

To get an idea of just how budget-friendly these places are, here’s how much I spent in each country:

A monk walking into the mountains in Kazbegi

• Time: 21 days (3 weeks)
• Total spent: €413 / $438
• Average daily costs:  €20 / $22 per day
• Full breakdown: Georgia budget report

The epic spires of Goris, Armenia

• Time:  19 days
• Total spent:  €440 / $488
• Average daily costs:  €23 / $26 per day
• Full breakdown:  Armenia budget report

River next to the epic Dorud-Andimeshk train line in Iran

• Time:  55 days (~2 months)
• Amount spent: €1,376 / $1,528
• Average daily costs:  €25 / $28 per day
• Full breakdown:   Iran budget report

A sunny afternoon on the beaches of Karachi

• Days spent in Pakistan: 44 days (1.5 months)
• Total spent:  €813 / $903
• Average daily costs:  €19 / $21 per day
• Full breakdown:   Pakistan budget report

Karakul Lake in Xinjiang, Western China

China (Xinjiang province)

• Time:  22 days
• Total spent:  €393 / $436
• Average daily costs:  €18 / $20 per day
• Full breakdown:   Xinjiang, China budget report

The pristine Kolsai lakes near Almaty

Kazakhstan (Almaty region)

• Time:  14 days
• Total spent:  €377 / $419
• Average daily costs:  €27 / $30 per day
• Full breakdown:   Kazakhstan budget report

Typical Kyrgyz scenery on the way to Song Kul lake

• Time:  26 days
• Total spent:  €716 / $795 per person
• Average daily costs:  €28 / $31 per person
• Full breakdown:   Kyrgyzstan budget report

Sunrise in Samarkand

• Total spent:  €450 / $500
• Average daily costs:  €24 / $26 per day
• Full breakdown:   Uzbekistan budget report

Dara-e-Azdahar, the Dragon Valley, near Bamiyan

• Time: 20 days
• Total spent:  €1071 / $1,189
• Average daily costs:  €54 / $60 per day
• Full breakdown:   Afghanistan budget report

Celebrating Diwali in Chennai

(South) India

• Time:  125 days (4 months… at the time of writing)
• Total spent:  €1,975 / $2,193
• Average daily costs:  €15 / $17 per day
• Full report:   South India budget report

Pitching a tent to save on accommodation for the night in Kazakhstan

A little bit on my backpacker spending habits

As you can see, I tried to stick to a budget of €25 per day. Less in India.

For some travelers that’s a lot… but for many travelers from wealthy countries it’s definitely not.

I’m budget-oriented—hello, backpacker—but there were times when I spent more than I intended to on things like clothing and electronics. These expenses bumped up averages for some countries, but if you’re planning on long-term travel, they’re inevitable.

(Unless you’re a magician who never breaks anything nor destroys clothes, which, alas, I am not.)

Since I’ve been on the road for a while, I’m also more willing to skip out on sights I find too expensive. Many a traditional house in Iran was skipped, and I’ve walked away from plenty of sights in India out of frustration at the not-always-logical dual pricing system .

If you’re on a short holiday these sights are worth the extra buck, but I’d rather have a few more days in India than see seven traditional houses.

The traditional houses of Kashan, Iran were costly for me… but I did cough up to see the bath house!

Finally, I have my vices. Every long-term traveler has their little comforts they’re willing to splurge on. Personally, I’m an antisocial cave troll who can only sporadically handle the socializing necessary for Couchsurfing.

If you’re willing to use Couchsurfing more often, you could spend a hell of a lot less money than I have. Do consider it if you’re on a tight budget… or just like meeting local travelers!

Roaming around in Palangan, Iran

The point: backpacking isn’t as expensive as you’d think

Long-term backpacking really doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg, especially compared to your cost of living. While living in the Netherlands, I was spending almost €2,000 a month. That’s four months of travel in India !

For me, a privileged traveler coming from the West, traveling is much cheaper than living in one place. Of course, that’s not true for everyone, especially those from developing countries with lower wages.

However, regardless of where you’re from, if you’re willing to put in some effort traveling can still be relatively cheap. Many people from countries all over the world can afford travel IF they prioritize and plan accordingly.

If you’re trying to up your backpacking game and travel on a budget more in the future, here’s my advice to you:

Bazaars of bread in Andijan, Uzbekistan

Visit cheap countries.  Your dreams of wining and dining in Paris will have to wait until you’re old and rich. Hopefully.

Set a daily budget… and stick to it.  Like I said, I stuck to €25/day, less in India. Once you have the number in your mind, it’s easier to make sure you stay under.

Plentiful cheap pastries in Tbilisi, Georgia made it exceptionally easy to stick to our budget

Track your expenses.  Try writing down ever. single. cent. you spend. It can be eye opening (and slightly disturbing at times). Being careful with spending is easier when you can see exactly where your money is going.

Travel domestically.  All around the world, I meet people who  say they can’t travel because they can’t get visas… except yo. FYI dudes and dudettes: your home countries are awesome. Why not explore them, first?

Hitchhike and use Couchsurfing .  They’re the greatest ways to save money  and  meet people at the same time.

My friend Ismat, whom I met in Kabul, Afghanistan via Couchsurfing

Take photos, not souvenirs.  We don’t buy stuff. It weighs us down. Photos on the other hand…

Use public transport.  Forget taxis and drivers. Public transport is more interesting, anyway! Make an effort to buy the tickets yourself at stations rather than through travel agents to save more money… and have more adventures as a result.

Don’t fly.  Flying is the same everywhere,  and  it’s costly,  and  bad for the environment it’s . That’s no fun.

Use sites like Trusted Housesitters .  If you’re on the road for a while, it’s a great way to find yourself a “luxurious” home base in which you can save money and lie low for a bit.

Get a tent.  Once you have one, you can sleep for free virtually anywhere!

Camping for free at Fairy Meadows in Pakistan

Be nice to people. You never know when you’ll meet a friendly soul willing to host your sorry backpacker ass.

Eat (too much) bread. It’s filling and cheap. Don’t blame me when you get scurvy, though.

The inside of a marshrutka minibus in Kyrgyzstan . One ride costs less than $0.25!

More on saving, spending, and funding long-term travel

• How the f**k do I pay for all this long-term travel?
• 5 steps to save money for travel
• How to make extra cash and save money for travel

Want to know more about my epic journey? Here’s what Lost With Purpose is all about .

Alex Reynolds

32 thoughts on “ i traveled the world for one year for less than $10,000 ”.

Wow thanks! Your posts are really inspiring! Love the photos. Definitely gonna see more of Central Asia. I’m going to Iran in a couple of days from now!

Hi Reyhan, thanks for letting us know. Iran is great, we’re sure you’ll love it. Let us know if you have any questions. Cheers!

Hey Sebastiaan, dam good man, One year in Asia for less than $10,000!! its unbelievable. I had gone through your blog and saw that you have also gone to Iran, well that’s my place. What a superb description you have given on your spending for each place, really amazing. Really other people can get good information about planning their next trip. Well best of luck to you too for your next trip.

Hi there, great to hear you liked the article. One of the things that annoyed me when researching this trip was the lack of info on costs. Hope this an help other people with their budget planning.

P.S. I have deleted the second part of your comment, as we don’t allow advertisement like that in the comment section.

Nice post and great picks. Here in South Asia $10000 is too big amount actually.

Thanks a lot!

Can I just say it is all amazing and i encourage all that.. HOWEVER when you are on your own, and a lonely female ie. safety matters too, these costs may double – a room for a couple often costs the same as for one person.. so sadly when you – like me – have no choice but to go to these places on my own (or not to go) then costs are a bit different :/

Update to my comment – sorry not managed to look through your amazing blog in full just yet! – you say Iran prices are per room! Yes at least Iran has some single vs coupled equality.. 😀

Hi Alex, I’ve just “found” you. Thank you for all the tips. Am thinking of travelling with 2 other friends once allowed to (due to the COVID-19 madness). Am the eldest of the 3 (60 yrs old come June 2021). Am saving up and planning to visit Beijing again (went in 2010 but didn’t have enough of it) and from there, thinking of taking the train to Inner Mongolia, Russia (St. Petersburg) and probably to Italy (Rome). I guess I can probably be thrifty when in Beijing and Inner Mongolia..but I suppose not so in Russia and Italy… I wonder. Any tips?

Hi Neti, I’m glad you found the tips useful! Sounds like quite the trip you have planned 🙂 How thrifty you can be kind of depends on how comfortable you want to be. China can be (relatively) costly when it comes to trains and hotels, and in my experience it was comparable to Russia in terms of cost. St. Petersburg might be a different story – I haven’t been there in quite some time. But certainly more “remote” (as in… not Moscow and St. Petersburg!) parts of Russia should be on par with parts of China. I would actually expect remote parts of Inner Mongolia to be more expensive than Russia as it will cost more to get around (my speculation, I don’t know for sure as I’ve never visited Inner Mongolia itself, only Mongolia and southern Sibera).

You can save a lot of money by buying train tickets yourself or buying them once in the country already – many of the sites used to book tickets from abroad charge higher prices or large commissions. You should also make an effort to take overnight trains if you’re comfortable with that – saves on accommodation for a night! One more general tip I would recommend is making sure your priorities are clear, both with yourself and your friends, as to what is worth money to you in each place. Is it accommodation? Unique tours? Comfortable transport? Fancier food? Once you know what is and isn’t worth it, it’s easier to manage your budget… as opposed to spending on everything and everything without concern at the start because you’re in holiday mode.

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The A to Z of 26 Affordable Ways to Travel Asia

Home » Destinations » Asia » The A to Z of 26 Affordable Ways to Travel Asia

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Updated: 29th September 2015

When you find yourself squished into a single 5ft by 3ft bed, with a complete stranger, for the second time in a week, wide awake on another night bus… You know you have accepted the best ways to travel to Asia on the cheap!

If you are like me and the journey is as important as the destination, then some of these will/have formed an integral part of your trip through this amazing continent. If you are more about the destination than the journey, you might want the heads up on what to avoid at all costs!

A:  Air Asia

Love it or hate it, you will probably find yourself on one of their flights at some point. The biggest budget airline in the continent. If you are in the USA, imagine Spirit or Europe, let’s say Ryanair. It’s cheap and cheerful, and as long as you watch out for the added fee, you’ll be just fine. You could even just head off with hand luggage (trust me, it’s possible – I’ve been rotating four outfits for my whole trip). Rumour has it they are just about to start an all in number of flights option for travelling the continent, keep your eyes out for it.

B:  Bemo

Bemo’s can be found all over Indonesia and similarly across Southeast Asia. If luxury is your thing, Bemo’s, therefore, are not! For under $1, I have got well and truly off the beaten track in Java on these babies. I’ve taught school kids English, shared fruit with old ladies, hung out with chickens (dead and alive), and managed to make myself smaller than I knew possible to squeeze in. The chances of seeing another tourist are slim; the journey will be long and bumpy, but like I said, I’m all about those journeys!

My favourite way to explore (bar by foot). I’ve picked up bikes for under $1 in some cities. From cycling to finding a silent beach in Gili T to enjoying a blissful morning of cycling away from everyone else in Inle Lake, get yourself two wheels and skip the hotel gym.

So, I guess the point here is you actually end up back at A again (we hope). I’ve added scuba diving in as taking a PADI course is becoming one of the ‘must do’ things on a backpacker’s list. Be safe, I have seen first hand too many dodgy shops, bad equipment and poor instructors. Some of the currents around Asia are crazy (Komodo in Indonesia, for example). Good dive schools won’t let you go there until you are safe, but a little research can go a long. Remember, if an instructor won’t sign you off at the end of your course, it’s probably because they are a good instructor, and you just aren’t ready to be a ‘qualified diver’ yet .

E:  Elephant

At the risk of sounding judgemental, don’t . On my first Asia trip years ago, I did this in Thailand, but within seconds of getting on that poor animal, I knew something wasn’t right. Visit sanctuaries, wash them, feed them and love them from afar in the wild. They are not, I repeat, just there for a selfie.

The sad fact is supply and demand means more of these beautiful creatures are being trapped in animal tourism. I get it’s a two-sided argument and can detract from certain tribes’ income, but perhaps if we pay to visit and admire rather than ride, then eventually, the methods of how they are kept/trained will change.

F: FireFly Air

FireFly Airlines is, apparently, ‘the world’s cheapest full-service airline’ (which I find pretty impressive; hence, they make the list). They are bright yellow and cheesy and fly turbo-props, but if you are island hopping around Malaysia and Thailand, this is a good place to hunt some bargain flights.

G: Grabbing On

In any shape, form or way. Get used to this. There’s no space left in that converted vehicle? Not a problem, you are going on the roof or at best clinging on to the side for dear life. Just think of it as a movie scene, the free wind in your air, the dust in your lungs. You get the picture, it’s great!

H: Hot Air Balloon

As a man with an insane fear of heights, I took the challenge in Bagan, Myanmar, to tick off a bucket list. It’s a splurge, and many pot noodles counteracted the cost, but it was an epic splurge I will never forget! Chiang Mai is another popular version, or head to the Philippines in February for their International Hot Air Balloon Festival.

I: Insurance

At the risk of sounding like your folks.  Get it. Which, of course, most people have done. But then check it!

Does it cover you for diving (a visit to a decompression chamber, potentially in another country is not cheap). How about driving abroad (In some countries, without an international license, you’re not getting a dime from them). I have a friend who, after dropping 5k on a hospital bill because they got pulled off their bike, ended up flying home broke and putting an end to their trip. Spend a few minutes reading and a few more bucks, and you can be safe in the knowledge your parents will stop nagging!

J: Junk boat

If you are heading to Halong Bay, you are going to come face to face with these bad boys. I wasn’t really sure why they were called ‘Junk’ because, to me, they looked pretty awesome. It basically comes from an Old Chinese name for them, but hey. They do the job.

Love! Nothing beats getting as close to the water as possible and exploring. The top places are above Halong Bay, Around Koh Phi Phi (Thailand) and in Borneo. But if you are like me, you will happily jump on one, wherever it may be.

L: Longtail Boat

These awesome boats, which are long(!), are native to Southeast Asia, so they are a must-do on your trip. If the tides are low, it may be a no-go, but getting one of these along the Mekong is a relaxing and beautiful way to spend a day (spoiler alert: you’re not getting anywhere in a hurry).

Whether you drive, don’t drive, have a license or don’t, you may well find yourself hiring a Moped at some point. I’m NOT going to say this is part of the world to learn to drive. I have seen a lot of accidents and, sadly, one death on my trip. See: Insurance above, check out the laws for where you are driving and make sure you know what you are doing. Some places say you don’t need a license; others say you will get off with a ‘fine’ for not having the right one. Whatever you decide to do, be safe and use your brain! (Get an international license before you come, and in some countries, you can even retest for one when you get there if you plan on sticking around for a while).

N: Night Train

I’ve completely skipped trains (mainly using buses) on my travels through Asia. Thailand’s are pretty good, but the general issue is many are slower and more expensive than busses. The Jungle Railway through Malaysia is something I wish I had done, as was the circular railway around Yangon. Night trains, however, sure beat ‘sleeper’ buses for comfort, as far as I am guessing. There are usually lots of different classes and the choice of beds, hard seats, soft seats and private cabins. Seat61 is a great resource to research your train travels.

Walking, trekking, climbing. Get out there on foot and explore. With mopeds being the go-to transport across this continent, so much gets missed when you are not doing it on your own. It’s better for the environment, easier to take pictures and a lot easier to get lost. My favourite walks are usually those involving a mountain or volcano for sunrise, which, luckily, you are going to be spoilt for choice with here.

Pelini is an Indonesian shipping company where you can find dirt-cheap trips to remote parts of the country that I have generally heard great things about. The fact some routes are once a month put a bit of a stick in my plans to use them, though.

I’m going to go a bit broader here and talk about Boats in general. I love you SEAsia, but your boats have a pretty shitty safety record. Fast boats especially have taken more than a couple of lives in the past few years, and life jackets, etc, are sometimes lacking. Ask lots of questions, check their track record and be sure they are safe. Only a few weeks ago, I saw one catch fire doing the popular Bali – Lombok route. I love being on the water, but sometimes not in it. Homework, kids, is essential!

Q: Quad Bike

These four-wheel beasts are where it’s at. Especially in Cambodia. I’ve got to admit, thanks to falling in love with Laos, this trip has been pushed back to 2015, BUT it’s on my list. If you like picking up speed, it’s worthwhile to inquire beforehand, as some groups tend to go more at a ‘comfortable’ pace. Southern Thailand is another great spot for taking one for a spin.

R: Rickshaw

The famous Tuk Tuk. From a one-man show peddling you along casually seeing the sights to a motorised version that can squeeze a few more in, you can’t escape these. From Khaosan Road to the famous colourful, music and glitzy ones of Malacca in Malaysia (pictured), at some point, you will find your bum bouncing around on one of these.

S: Sleeper Bus

Like the VIP busses, Sleeper may be an over-exaggeration. Sometimes, they are the same thing (see below). Other times, you get a nice bed. In Laos, I had to share a bed with a complete stranger. Which doesn’t sound that bad unless you are 6 feet tall, don’t actually fit, and the air con unit drips water on you like Chinese torture all night. But they get you from A to B, and all the air con in the world usually comes with it!

Ah, Laos. I’m sat here drinking a beer right now not feeling too bad I skipped this ‘OMG its amazing’ moment in Vang Vieng to soak up the South. Now it’s such a feature on the ‘Banana pancake trail’, though I couldn’t miss it out. You basically sit in a tyre like an object (yeah, think water park slides) and bob down a river, maybe with currents, maybe with beer, maybe stopping at a bar. I feel a bit sad I skipped it typing that.

U: Ultralight Aircraft

If you are obsessed with aerial photography (yeah, that’s me), then this is an expensive must-do. I’m holding out till I hit up the Philippines, but not only can you passenger in these two-seat planes, you can also learn to fly them. Sometimes, there is one seat, and they come in different shapes and sizes (the price, not so much), but if you are intrigued, check out some models on Wiki.

V.I.P. – I think it has a different meaning. From luxury reclining individual seats with snacks and attendants to rattling windows and freezing air conditioning. It might be more ‘VIP’ than the local bus, but seriously, don’t go getting your hopes up!

So, it’s not really a transport option. But it is usually the only option involved with getting transport. From boats to planes, a good book becomes your best friend. Over schedule for a journey, and if you make it on time, it’s a pleasant surprise. If you are expecting ‘updates’ on the situation, don’t; you will just end up getting more annoyed.

As they are called in Vietnam, or just a cart bike will do. Get in the back with the driver, usually cheaper and faster than a taxi. It’s the thing to do in these parts, don’t you know. Just don’t get ripped off!

If you have the cash, then get onboard a liveaboard yacht (I sure wish I did). The mother of boats is, without a doubt, somewhere on my ‘when I get rich’ to-do list. My best recommendation of where to take one would be Raja Ampat , Indonesia.

Yeah, Z wasn’t an easy one. But this sure will do! If you want to get invoked, then the ‘longest zipline in Southeast Asia’ is in Pattaya, Thailand and looks pretty damn awesome.

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