Of our two year long around the world trip, we have spent almost half of it here in Southeast Asia. There is just something about this area of the world that always seems to draw us back.
Some of our favorite places in the world can be found in this corner of the universe. Here is a short list of my favorite places in Southeast Asia.
El Nido, Palawan Island Philippines
El Nido will always be at the top of my list of favorite places in the world. The landscape is absolutely stunning. Crystal clear water with jagged limestone cliffs springing up out of the sea.
El Nido is a truly unique place in the world. It still has a very remote feeling to it. It’s a place that’s not easy to get to, but definitely worth the trip. Could spend a week here as there are tons of things to do in El Nido.
Hoi An, Vietnam
If I were to travel anywhere in the world solely to eat, it would be Hoi An, Vietnam. This small central Vietnamese town packs a culinary punch. They serve up dishes here that you just can’t find anywhere else. Plus, they have their own twist on Vietnamese classics like the Bahn Mi that are worth the trip alone.
The ancient city lights up beautifully at night, and paper lanterns float down the river. During the day grab a bike cruise through the bright green rice fields and see a peaceful rural side of Vietnam. Bartering is a big part of Vietnamese culture, it can be overwhelming, but be prepared, and it’s kind of fun when you get the hang of it.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap is world-famous for this view. Daily, the sunrises over this 9th-century wonder of the world. Siem Reap and the city of Angkor is much more than a single temple but the ruins of an entire city spread out over a huge area.
The grounds are scattered with intricate temples from a time long ago. Hire a Tuk Tuk Driver and cruise around the ancient city.
Bangkok, Thailand
A trip to Southeast Asia without visiting Bangkok can hardly count as a trip to the area. Bangkok is always one of our first stops when we visit Southeast Asia. I think it’s best to have three days in Bangkok to truly explore the city.
It’s busy, it’s a little crazy, but it’s also beautiful. It may take a few trips to truly appreciate it, but check out our guide to Bangkok to get the most out of the city.
Koh Lipe, Thailand
Koh Lipe has it all: beautiful beaches, great food, and a relaxed vibe. This is for sure one of our favorite islands in the world. We came here by accident and never wanted to leave.
The turquoise waters are some of the prettiest we have seen. Longtail boats bob up and down just a few feet from the white sands. This place is paradise. Throw in some top-notch spicy Thai curry, and you may never get me to leave.
Planning a southern Thailand trip, check out our guide to Koh Lipe, including how to get to Koh Lipe and all the details.
There you have it, and after a year of living in Southeast Asia, these are our top 5 places to visit.
Where is your favorite place in Southeast Asia?
Alex Sexton
Monday 1st of August 2016
I would love to go back to South East Asia! I need to give Bangkok another try. We went from a calming beach weekend in Rawaii to the chaos of this major metropolis. Ash and I plan on going back with in the next couple years and truly spend some significant time in the region.
Hannah
Tuesday 2nd of August 2016
Bangkok is a city you either love or hate. We fell in love with it on our first visit, and we have been back 7 times since. It is our favorite city in the world. Your first few hours in Bangkok will set the tone for your opinion on Bangkok, if something bad happened to you or you maybe just got rubbed the wrong way...what part of town did you stay in?
Ruth Sheffer
Saturday 30th of July 2016
Love Luang Prabang and Nong Mhiaw in Laos both were hard to leave.
Steve
Thursday 28th of January 2016
I have to agree that Koh Rong should be well within the top 5 locations. Most likely because of the same sentiments you have with El nido. An untouched paradise is likely to expand into a tourist hotspot (if the cambodian government have their way). Hopefully El Nido will be crossed off my list this year!
Wes
Friday 19th of June 2015
I haven't been to the Philippines yet, but it's on my list, especially after reading this. But I think your list is certainly on the mark for "must see" places when visiting Southeast Asia. These are all great places!
Ceri
Tuesday 19th of May 2015
I've been living in Korea for over a year now and still haven't managed to get down south-east. I've only been to Japan so far. Am going to have to bookmark this for when I finally travel down there. :D