4 week travel south east asia

My 4-Week Southeast Asia Itinerary

Apr 10. 2016.

One thing about Southeast Asia (SEA), it is incredibly affordable, making it a top destination for backpackers and budget travelers.

I have done quite a bit of solo travel, but my jaunt around SEA was the first where I visited multiple cities and countries in a relatively short amount of time.

This is all the time I had to venture across 4 countries. For some people, a definitive plan is a must. They book every flight, bus, hotel, and excursion well in advance. Me, on the other hand, I break out in hives at the thought of concrete plans with no room for flexibility. What if I don’t like a place? What if I want to stay longer in another? What if I wake up one morning and I don’t want to do this (whatever this is), on this particular day at this particular time? It just doesn’t work for me. I need freedom and flexibility. But, unlike my usual methods of preparation or the lack thereof , I couldn’t just “figure it out as I go” for this trip. I actually had to sit down and, roughly, plan out the logistics. So here is my 4-week itinerary of SEA, including where to go, how to get there, and where to/not to stay.

Note: this itinerary does include a quick trip to the Philippines, which is not a part of the Indochina region. So, if the beautiful beaches of Boracay aren’t in your plans shame on you , you can always spend more days in other cities or add in Laos or Myanmar.

Vietnam was the first stop on my journey. This place was simply magical, for the lack of a better word. Everything about this place captivated me; from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi, to the charming, idyllic, town of Hoi An, and everything in between. But what I loved absolute most about Vietnam is the food! Even those with the pickiest palates (me) are sure to find delight in Vietnam’s delectable dishes. It has easily become my favorite international cuisine, hands down.

Hanoi is dizzying and electrifying, all in the same token. If it’s your first stop, as it was mine, this is where you’ll learn how to cross Vietnamese streets without being turned into roadkill, and learn just how many people and how much stuff can be piled onto a motorbike.

Getting to Hanoi :  It is important to note that some people will require a visa in order to enter Vietnam. Check here to see if you fall into that category.  If so, be sure to check out my guide on getting a Vietnam Visa on Arrival . Now, the logistics…since I’m already in Asia, I booked a flight through budget airline, Vietjet . There are tons of budget airlines in Asia. Check out some of my favorite sites such as Expedia and Sky scanner to find the lowest prices. Upon arrival, I had pre-arranged to have the hostel pick me up, and I’m so glad I did. It was one less thing to worry about. But, if you opt to take a taxi make sure you negotiate the price before taking off.

Days Spent : My time in Hanoi was very brief, essentially amounting to a single evening. This allowed me time to wander the streets of Old Quarter and grab dinner and drinks at Greet Restaurant, where I had my first taste of Vietnamese spring rolls. A definite must-try, by the way. If you have more time, I would recommend at least 2 full days.

Where To Stay : Golden Charm Hotel ($7.64 USD for a 4-Bed Female Dorm)

Cheap! Great location Breakfast included

Rock hard beds No hot water

As a Unesco World Heritage site, cruising along Halong Bay was definitely at the top of my list for things to do in Vietnam. It is an impalpable wonder that certainly did not disappoint. I spent the day meeting amazing people, eating delicious foods, taking a joy ride on a bamboo boat, and taking in the incredible sites. Since I knew I only had a narrow window of time to visit Halong, this is actually one (and only) excursion I booked in advance. But, you can definitely book upon your arrival. There are tons of tour companies and your hotel is likely partnered with one of them. Just make sure if you book through the hotel they are not overcharging you in order to get their cut.

Getting to Halong Bay : Your tour company will pick you up from your hotel/stay, and from there you will depart for Halong Bay. It is about a 4-hour ride, so be prepared. Once you arrive you will then board your junk boat and cruise around the bay for your allotted time. Afterward, you will be dropped off at your hotel/stay in Hanoi.

Days Spent : I opted for the Day Trip with V’Spirit Cruises , due to time restraints. However, there are different options available including a 2 Days 1 Night cruise, and a 3 Days 2 Nights cruise. Since the weather was a bit drizzly and chilly the day of my cruise, I found the Day Trip to be sufficient. If weather permits, I would suggest the 2 Days 1 Night cruise , as you will have longer to relax and partake in more activities at your leisure.

If you would like to see more photos and read more about Hanoi and Halong Bay click here .

Ahhh…I could go on and on forever about Hoi An. This is easily one of my top 5 favorite places. Hoi An has it all! Great food, great people, great shopping, and great beaches! Sounds pretty ideal to me, wouldn’t you say?

Getting to Hoi An : You have a couple of options. You can either take an hour and 15-minute flight OR take an overnight train from Hanoi to Da Nang (about a 30-minute taxi ride from Hoi An). There isn’t a huge difference in price, and depending on when you book your flight it may even be cheaper than taking the train, which was $45 one-way. I already knew I would be taking tons of flights for this trip, so opted for the overnight train for the experience alone.

If you do the Halong Bay Day Trip you will return to your hotel around 8:30 pm, which gives you enough time to make the 10:00 pm overnight train (check out seat61. co m  for the most comprehensive guide for train travel). It is a 14-hour train ride, but time passes quickly as you will likely sleep a good bit of the way. Whatever you do, don’t sleep through the last hour or so of the ride. The coastal views between Hue and Da Nang are absolutely breathtaking.

Personally, I would recommend flying. If you’re expecting a nice kempt, modern-ish train (as I, naively, was) you will be HIGHLY disappointed. It was quite old and dirty. You will save yourself time, comfort, and likely money by flying.

Upon your arrival in Da Nang, you can catch a taxi into Hoi An. Do not pay more than 18,000 VND for a taxi.

***Note: If you do opt for the train, be sure to book in advance to ensure you get your preferred choice (upper or lower berth, hard or soft bed), as they tend to book quickly. I ended up being stuck on an upper berth.

Days Spent: Ancient Town, Hoi An is small and quaint, definitely a change of pace for Hanoi, but there is still so much to see and do. I spent 5 days and 4 nights here. I definitely could have stayed longer.

Where to Stay: Golden River Hotel

Initially, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to stay the full 5 days at this hotel so I booked 2 nights in a mixed dorm room ($8.19 USD/night), but I ended up switching to a private room upon arrival for $24/nt. Having my own space was totally worth it. I ended up keeping the private room for the duration.

Great price Nice size rooms with a mini fridge Great location Breakfast included Wonderful staff Comfy bed Offers bicycles and motorbikes to rent Wi-fi

None really

Want to see more amazing photos and read more about Hoi An check out Hoi An : Part 1 , Hoi An: Part 2 , and Off the Beaten Path: Hoi An .

Saigon/Ho Chi Minh City (HCM)

Busy and bustling and one of Southeast Asia’s biggest Metropolises, HCM is a definite contrast compared to the more laid-back Hoi An. Filled with so much rich history, HCM is a definite must. Stop by the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace to take a step back in time. Also, don’t forget to try Vietnam’s famous iced coffee made with condensed milk.

Getting to Ho Chi Minh : You can take a 16-hour train to HCM, but the cheapest and quickest way is flying. It’s a quick hour and 15-minute flight. I nabbed a super cheap flight for only $20.64 USD with budget airline VietJet Air. Bundle and book on Expedia to save money.

Days Spent:  I spent 2 days and 2 nights here. Stretch it to 3 days if you can. It’ll ensure your days are not jam-packed as mine were.

Where to Stay : DDA Hotel District 1 (Private Room $18.65 USD/nt)

Decent price Mini fridge Great location in backpacker district Clean and modern room Wi-fi

Located right above a bar, so noise can be a disturbance Hard beds Small room No window in room

Find Cheap Flights to Vietnam Here!

I have a strong appreciation and admiration for Cambodia. This is a resilient country that withstood the horrors of genocide and famine brought on by its own government. Even still, this country still shines. Its people are kind, and the food is incredible.

As the capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh has a rich culture and a heartbreaking past. I was able to see first-hand the aftermath of the story told by Loung Ung in the harrowing novel First They Killed My Father .

Getting to Phnom Penh: First things first, since you are crossing international borders, you will need to get a visa. There are two options. You can get your visa at the border, or you can apply online for an E-visa. To avoid any hiccups, I opted for the latter. You have a couple of options for getting to Phnom Penh. You can either fly or take a 6-hour bus ride. I chose the bus ride as it was the most cost-efficient route. The 3 most popular bus companies are Mekong Express ($12 USD), Sapaco Tourist ($12 USD), and Giant Ibis ($18 USD). I opted for Sapaco Tourist and booked through bookmebus. com . It was quick and easy and I just showed the e-ticket at the bus terminal. However, I must say I would not take Sapaco ever again. Definitely spend the extra money and go with Giant Ibis (which provides a snack, wifi, and power plugs). Sapaco’s bus was quite old and had the most rancid odor. Also, the ride itself was treacherous. The bus driver was more reckless than most and I swear he would blow the obnoxiously loud horn, long and hard each time he came near a car, which was every 10 seconds. So if you’re hoping to get any sleep on this bus you can forget it. Pay the extra money. Go with Giant Ibis. Trust me on this.

Days Spent:  I only spent 2 days and 2 nights here. It was an adequate amount of time for me, as I didn’t completely fall in love with Phnom Penh. But, if you can squeeze in one more day, then go for it. Definitely set aside one day for the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (also known as the S-21 Prison) and the killing fields. It is a bit emotionally heavy but worth it.

Where to stay :  After doing some research I discovered sex trafficking is a huge problem in Cambodia. I also discovered Daughters of Cambodia which is an organization that helps victims of sex trafficking escape by providing them jobs and health and supportive services. This also led me to discover White Linen Boutique Hotel , which partners with Daughters of Cambodia. They provide jobs to young rescued women and teach them life/job skills to help these women create a sustainable life for themselves. I loved this place; everything about it. I would highly recommend it to anyone.

Supports an incredible cause Bed and Breakfast feel/very homey Clean and beautiful (the photos does it no justice) One breakfast item free (Try the bread of the day with honey butter. I legit still crave this bread everyday) Amazing staff Wi-fi

Price (Standard Lily room $35/nt ). This is a bit pricier compared to other SEA hotels, but still relatively cheap, and totally worth it Location is not terrible, but also not great. It is a bit outside of all the main action

As the home of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is truly a gem. A quaint little city with lots of restaurants to be tried, lots of massages to be had, lots of fruit shakes to be consumed, and lots of temples to venture. I loved it! It definitely gets my vote over Phnom Penh.

How to get to Siem Reap:  From Phnom Penh, I took a 5.5 hour bus with Giant Ibis for only $15 USD. Giant Ibis was pure luxury compared to Sapaco. As previously mentioned, they give you a snack and bottled water, and it comes with wifi and power plugs. ‘Twas amazing!

Days Spent:  I spent 2 days and 2 nights here. I honestly would have liked to have stayed one more day, so if you can…do.

Where {Not} to stay : Admittedly, my hotel in Siem Reap was not the best. I chose the Villa Sok San Square (Private room $23.75/nt).

Great location Friendly staff Wi-fi

DIRTY! If you can’t tell by my previous mentions of dirt, I can’t tolerate anything dirty. This place was just that. Dirty. The walls were dirty, the sheets were stained, the shower curtain was moldy and disgusting. If you can tolerate these things, then go for it. I won’t be returning.

Find Cheap Flights to Cambodia Here!

Philippines.

Boracay was somewhat of a last-minute addition to my vacation plans, but I am so glad I fit it into my schedule. Aside from the breathtaking beaches, Boracay is filled with all sorts of amazing people, incredible restaurants, and a smorgasbord of activities that will satiate the adventure junkie in you.

How to get to Boracay:  First, you have to decide if you want to save on money or time. If money is not a factor, book a flight directly to Caticlan, then it’s around a 10-minute boat ride to Boracay. Me, on the other hand, I chose the most cost-efficient option, but turns out it was definitely not the most time efficient. From Siem Reap I booked a flight to Manila, Philippines (which entailed a 9-hour layover in Kuala Lumpur). Once in Manila, I took a one-hour domestic flight to Kalibo. From Kalibo, I’d pre-arranged door-to-door transportation services through Southwest Tours . At the airport, we boarded a shuttle bus, drove an hour and a half to Jetty Port, where we then took a 10-minute speed boat ride over to Boracay. Once on the island, we were taken to our respective hotels.

Days Spent : I spent 5 days and 4 nights here, but honestly could have stayed forever. I was seriously sad to leave, and even, briefly, contemplated spending the rest of my vacation there. It’s just that awesome!

Where to stay:  MNL Beach Hostel Boracay (6-bed female dorm $16.34/nt). At this point this was the best hostel I’d ever stayed in, in life. Aesthetically, it was fun and super artsy. But, what I loved most was that the rooms were fairly big and the bunks were encapsulated and spacious, so you had privacy and places to keep your things inside with you.

Amazing location! Just a short walk to the beach and tons of restaurants/bars Super friendly staff Breakfast included 2 rooftop desks great for mingling with other travelers Hosted events several nights a week (i.e. yoga, BBQ mixer, etc) Spacious rooms and bunks Clean

Wifi only available in the common area

To read more about That One Time I Went Scuba Diving in Boracay click here.

Find Cheap Flights to the Philippines Here!

You can’t mention Southeast Asia without mentioning Thailand. You just can’t. It is like the epitome of SEA and where everyone flocks to; understandably so. It is something kinda amazing. My original plan was to start in Bangkok and make my way down to Chiang Mai, and then the islands, but by the time I’d reached Thailand I was exhausted! So, things changed (thank goodness for not having set plans, reservations, and flights). Not only did I end my trip in Chiang Mai, I also ended it a few days early.

I was quite surprised by Bangkok. I really didn’t have that great of expectation for it. I presumed it to be just another big city. But, boy was I surprised. I actually LOVED Bangkok. Of all the places I’d visited in SEA, this is the one place where I could actually see myself living long-term, maybe because it reminded me of an Asian version of home (Atlanta). Either way, it’s an incredible city that shouldn’t be slept on.

How to get to Bangkok:  From Boracay I flew back to Manila and then booked a separate flight to Bangkok (with yet again another long layover in Kuala Lumpur).

Days Spent:  Sadly, I only had 2 days and 2 nights in this amazing city. Initially, I’d only planned to stay one night, but I loved it so much I extended it for 2. Had I known that I wasn’t going to make it down to the islands I definitely would have stayed longer, 4 or 5 days at least.

Where to Stay:  Ok, so I know I said MNL Hostel was the best I’d ever stayed in, in life. Well, that was until I stayed at Analog Hostel in Bangkok. For only $12.64/nt it was an absolute steal! This place was super modern, super clean, super spacious, super secure, super EVERYTHING! And the decor is what took the cake. I am obsessed with all things vintage and retro, and that was the entire theme of this hostel. Old mixed with new. It was absolutely perfect! I will say this is definitely not your fun, party, hostel. So, if that’s what you’re looking for, look elsewhere. This place is more relaxed and laid back and people kept to themselves for the most part.

Great location near BTS Station, shopping, and restaurants Huge spacious rooms (even in an 8-person dorm) Clean and modern Amazing staff Great common area Very secure with cameras and badges to unlock all doors Wi-fi

May be a little difficult to find at first, as it is down a small alleyway No elevator

Chiang Mai, the city built around a moat, is also easily in my top 5 favorite cities. Not as busy as Bangkok, but still just as lively. I could spend hours on end walking up and down all the little alleyways discovering all the hidden gems of this city and never tire. Also, Chiang Mai has some of the best markets I’ve ever experienced. It is truly an incredible place.

How to get to Chiang Mai:  From Bangkok I took an hour and 10-minute flight that only set me back about $30 USD. Not too shabby.

Days Spent:  I spent a total of 5 days and 5 nights here. Initially, I was only going to stay 3 days plus 1 day in Pai, but again, things changed. And that’s ok. I loved each and every day I spent here, and will definitely be returning in the near future. One thing that you should definitely do while here is to visit the Elephant Nature Park . Truly an amazing experience with an organization that rescues elephants from the abuse of logging and tour companies. So, no riding the ellies here; only caring for and nurturing them.

Where to stay:  The An Teak Chiang Mai Hotel (4 bed dorm $18.52). This hotel is in an amazing location, in walking distance to everything. It is very modern and clean and zen-like. Like the Analog Hostel, it is very quiet. There weren’t too many people staying when I stayed, in fact, I only shared my 4 person room with one other girl at a time. The owners are incredibly nice, helpful, and accommodating. Initially, I only booked for one night but each day I would advise them, that I decided to stay one more day and it was no problem at all. Also, the cafe attached is absolutely delicious! I ate there just about every day, whether breakfast or a quick snack. I highly recommend this hotel.

Great price Modern and clean Spacious rooms Amazing owners Perfect location Wi-fi

No elevator

Well, there you have it. My 4-Week Southeast Asia Itinerary. A bit ambitious? Yes. Would I have done it any differently? No. 4 weeks was all I had, so I had to make the most out of it, and I loved every minute.

NEED MORE TIPS? HERE’S HOW TO STAY CONNECTED WHILE TRAVELING THROUGH SOUTHEAST ASIA

Planning a trip.

• Here’s a $30 voucher off your next booking!
• Stay connected  with Skyroam portable wifi
• Book your travel insurance  with  SafetyWing  or  World Nomads. You never know when you might need it. Lost luggage, trip cancellation, accidents. Better to be safe than sorry.
• Don’t forget   these packing essentials

Please note: all hotel pricing are listed at the time of my booking. Prices are subject to change. Also, there are some affiliate links on this post, which is just a fine way of directing you straight to the source without a bunch of searching on your part. 

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Bernard Tan

I have never been to Hanoi and Hoi An, But have heard many stories about this places. What do you think is the difference between travelling in HCMC and Hanoi

Hoi An is amazing! Definitely my favorite of the 3. As far as the differences between Hanoi and HCMC, Hanoi is more charming and has a lot more character than HCM. Walking through Hanoi somewhat reminded me of New Orleans with all the French Colonial buildings and such. HCM, was more of just a big city, in my opinion. It still had it’s cultural aspects, but not anything like Hanoi.

Sharmistha | That Girl's Life Stories

Colby! Your pictures are beautiful. This is such a detailed article. I’m bookmarking it for my future trip!

Thanks so much Sharmistha!! 🙂

Yes!! I’m bookmarking this page and coming back for when I plan my SEA tour next year! I love how organized it is too…love the pros and cons list! Also, let’s seriously go back to Philippines! I’m having paradise withdrawal!

Omg! Another trip to the Philippines is a MUST!! Seriously, one of the best trips ever!

Svetoslav Dimitrov

This is a great itinerary – you covered amazing countries. Your pictures are excellent – I love the Cambodian one! I would love to visit all of them!

Thanks so much Svetoslav! All of them were incredible, in their own right. I hope you get to visit them all someday!

Lily Travella

Will definitely be trying the vietnamese iced coffee when i go soon. this is the perfect post for me at the moment, i’m off to south east asia pretty soon and will definitely be referring back to this before i go!

That’s awesome! So glad it will be of help! Let me know if you need any other recommendations 🙂

Just like you, i really dont like planning my journey to the very last bit. I feel like it takes away some form of freedom to do random things.

Nice read. I like your style of writing.

Yes, exactly! I need that freedom for spontaneity and randomness! Glad I’m not the only one :). Thanks so much for your kind words.

Wow! such an adventure, I haven’t been to Asia yet, from your details and pictures it is definitely on my list!

Yay! Southeast Asia is absolutely amazing! I can’t wait to go again.

Tonya Denmark

What an extensive itinerary! These are always good to go off of to get ideas on where to go and what to do. And I agree, sometimes you have to make the most of everything. Now here’s hoping you can sit back and relax!

Ahhh…yes, thank you 🙂 I’ve definitely had a chance to relax, but now I’m itching to go back lol. I still crave the foods so much! Some of the best I’ve ever had.

I haven’t been to any of these places – but definitely inspired now! You did cover a lot in 4 weeks, but this plan does not sound crazy hectic!

Yeah, it was a lot, and not so much hectic as it was tiring from being on the go non-stop. I was actually quite surprised how smoothly everything went considering I did so much in so little time. I hope you get to visit all of these places someday, they are all amazing!

Claire Martin

This is a great itinerary! Hopefully I’ll be putting it to use soon!

Thanks so much Claire!

Thank you for sharing! I have already backpacked Cambodia and the Philippines this spring since I’ve been on exchange in Hong Kong. I leave for my month and a half solo trip this May through Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam! Your blog has been heaps of help and encouragement.

That is amazing!! Glad you found the post useful. Feel free to contact me if you need any other recommendations. Safe travels!

Andreja Jernejčič

Ah, this is great, I have very similar plans for this fall, Phillipines first, and then hopefullv Vietnam and laos, maybe a little bit of thailand!I can´t wait!

How exciting! What part of the Philippines are you going to? Boracay was awesome, but I also hear Palawan is amazing too.

Christine K

I have not been to Vietnam but will be going in May. Loved your article and the photos. You were fortunate to have four weeks and it looks like you took full advantage of your time. Thanks for putting this together, very entertaining and useful.

Thanks so much! I hope you love Vietnam as much as me! What parts will you be visiting?

Elaina O' Brien

Love this – you have dominated SE Asia my friend! I agree the major con about the Philippines was that damn non existent wifi!! Other than that I really couldn’t complain .. thanks for sharing! awesome read! 🙂

Oh my gosh, wifi was horrid! But, I guess it’s good to unplug every now and then and be in the moment. But, still….lol

So much information I love it, I’ve spent a long time in Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam but am dying to visit Phillipines soon!

I hope you get the chance soon! It’s amazing! What parts of Cambodia have you been in? Which places do you prefer?

Wow! Such an amazing trip. I wish to visit these countries one day also, although now I have to plan something closer 🙁 Especially loved Wietnam!

I hope you get to visit soon! They are all amazing places. Vietnam was definitely my favorite!

Safari Junkie

Sounds tempting although have never been attracted to this part of the world, have to admit.

I totally understand. I was the same way prior to moving to Asia. I’d always wanted to visit Thailand, but that’s about it. But, I fell in love with SEA!

Kimberly Erin @ Walkaboot.ca

very informative, I have never been to SEA yet but I am sure I will in the upcoming years….what I am really looking farward to is some scuba diving 🙂

Scuba diving was great! And it’s so cheap to do in the Philippines!

Life, Other Than - - - Shannon

Great informational post about traveling SE Asia. I’m yet to venture to this area of the globe and this post is worth its weight in gold to help give a person her bearings before heading out. I’m curious why you opted for the private room instead of the mixed dorm at the Golden River Hotel. Were there problems with the other guests? Too loud?

Thanks for sharing!

Oh no, nothing like that. The guests were all great. Not rowdy or obnoxious. But, prior to arriving to Hoi An, I’d slept in an airport, slept in a 4 person dorm on a rock hard bed, and shared a 4-person, tiny overnight train cabin with a guy with smelly feet lol. So, by the time I arrived to Hoi An I just wanted/needed my own space.

It is a good few years since my visit to Vietnam – and it looks exactly the same in your pictures, which is very nice to see! So often places become ruined once tourism takes hold. I have to put the Philippines on my wish list.

I totally agree! Hoi An, was a bit touristy, but it still had so much character, charm, and culture.

Asia is a beautiful continent. Cool you enjoyed 4 weeks there. Nice details of trip. Great pic 🙂 I just returned from the Philippines and loved it. I didn’t make it to Boracay.

Ahh nice! What parts did you visit in the Philippines? I definitely want to return and venture to other places.

Wow these pictures are amazing it’s making me want to go right now. I have pinned for future reference as your tips are great

Thanks so much Jenni 🙂

Jacqui Travels

What a brilliant itinerary and great tips! I can’t believe you fit so much in to four weeks. We’ve often thought that four weeks wouldn’t be enough in SEA, but you’ve made me think we could achieve it, too! I’ll be keeping this for later. Thank’s for sharing.

Thanks so much Jacqui! It was definitely a lot to pack in, in that amount of time, but it’s doable. You can easily spend a month or more in any one of these cities and feel like it’s still not enough time. I’ll definitely be returning and staying longer in most of these places.

LIndsay Nieminen

I have been to Malaysia, but have not had the chance yet to visit the rest of SE Asia. When my kids get a big bigger i would love to spend three months traveling here!

That would be awesome! Ideally, I would like to go back for 2-3 months as well!

Definitely an ambitious itinerary, but it looked like it worked out well enough for you! I actually can’t believe how much you managed to see.

If you were to go back to these countries, is there a particular place you would choose to return to for a longer time?

I would absolutely love to spend more time in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Bangkok, because I feel like I didn’t even scratch the surface, but from the short amount of time I was there, it felt like a place I could actually see myself living. And Chiang Mai was just amazing in so many ways.

Kaylene Chadwell

Awesome itinerary – very organized and informative! You make me want to get to Southeast Asia! I’d especially love to get to Vietnam and Thailand.

Thanks Kaylene! They were both amazing!

Love it, Colby! Your photos are absolutely stunning.

Thanks so much Taylor! 🙂

Sophia Reed

Great post. All love international travel and all the places you went to look like there were so full of culture.

They definitely were! I can’t wait to visit SEA again!

really thorough information and fantastic photos! A great guide

Thanks Hannah! 🙂

I thoroughly enjoyed this post… in fact I could’ve heard even more about your adventure. I have yet to make it to SEA, but when I do, I will be keeping your tips in mind. Thanks for sharing your journey

Thanks so much Robbi! I’m so glad you enjoyed the read 🙂

Cephe Paneli

Only wanna state that this is invaluable , Thanks for taking your time to write this.

Thank so much! Glad you found it useful 🙂

This is perfect! I am just starting to plan a pretty last minute trip to SEA, I will have a bit longer than 4 weeks travel time but this is a great starting place for my plans – so thank you!!

You’re so welcome! Glad you found this helpful! Where all are you headed? Hope you have an amazing trip!

Truly enjoyed reading this.

This coming January I am visiting a friend in Korea and after my visit I have 4-6 weeks available to travel. I’ve traveled a bit around Europe but I am intimidated with the language barrier in Asia. Since you stayed in Hostels, where do you leave your belongings? Any tips for first time female solo traveling in Asia? Thank You, -Gen

Hi Gen! Language barriers are hands down the most difficult thing about traveling (for me), and furthermore Korea was by far the most difficult place of them all. But, I managed to live there for a year in an incredibly rural part of Korea (like the only foreigner in the town, kind of rural)…so if I can survive that (with the knowledge of all of 5 words and not being able to read hangul) you´ll be fine. Trust me 🙂

I found that the language barrier really wasn´t that big of a problem in Southeast Asia. Most people I interacted with spoke enough English for me to be able to get by (especially in the touristy areas). Also, I always felt really safe in SEA. So you´ll be fine traveling solo. Of course always use discernment to avoid sketchy situations, but most everyone I met was extremely kind and helpful. The only place I was a little iffy about was Cambodia…mainly because EVERYONE there kept drilling to be safe. The motor drivers, the staff at the hotel, random people on the streets. Them constantly ¨warning¨ definitely made me take more precaution and made me a little on edge. I didn´t venture out after dark and was just always extra careful there.

One thing to be aware of are the taxi scammers. Never ever agree to whatever price they say. They´re ripping you off. Always insist on using the meter. They will tell you it´s broken. It´s a lie. Tell them nevermind and you´ll get another cab. They´ll change their tune.

As far as hostel, they usually come with lockers where you can lock up your belongings. I typically just locked away the valuable stuff.

Overall, I think SEA is an amazing place for solo female travelers. You´ll meet tons of other travelers along the way. Don´t worry about the language barrier, you´ll be fine 🙂

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Charlotte Newman

Thanks so much for sharing your itinerary! I’m always struggle with whether to stay in one country for an extended time or try to hit several, but your itinerary is very tempting 🙂 Would you be willing to share what your budget was (not including flight from the US) for the month? Thank you!

Your trip looks awesome! Chiang Mai sounds amazing!

Thanks so much! Chiang Mai is one of my absolute favorite places I´ve visited.

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Thanks for the great post! I am planning a trip for this May! How was it arranging travel, hotels, etc with the language barrier? Also how did you feel safety wise traveling alone as a woman. I did a solo trip last year for 3 months in South America and did not feel unsafe at all. Thanks for the help!

Actually I was able to read your response above to a similar question. Thanks!

IndiGo Volontärresor

It took me several visits but Pnom Penh has really grown on me. Not too big to feel like the city is drowning you nor so small that it feels, well, too small 🙂 Just like Bangkok was 20 or 30 years ago. A good advice is to check out the Raffles Hotel breakfast buffet, absolutely amazing!

Sofia Snellman

Nice info! How much time should I count on planning my trip for a one month travel in SE Asia?

Thank you really, for I was going nuts about whether 4 weeks are enough to cover it all. I have somewhat similar itinerary in mind but I was discouraged by people’s reaction of “ahhh nah you can’t do it”. It seems you even squeezed Boracay in between. You gave me a real inspiration for my trip. Thank you!

You’re so welcome! I know people will try to discourage you from packing too much into a trip, but the way I look at it is, I can either get a taste of it and return later, or don’t do it at all. I’d rather have just a taste. Sometime you really do have to just make the most out of the time you have. Glad I was able to help. Enjoy your trip!

Psyche Castillon

Hi, Colby! When you get back from the Philippines, try booking flights with Cebu Pacific and/or PAL (Philippine Airlines). They have direct flights from Manila to Siem Reap/Manila to Bangkok.

So good to know! Thanks for the info!

Would it be possible to breakdown the total cost? I’m very much interested in following this. Thank you for a great blog!

Hey love this post! I’m planning on going to most of these countries in the next couple months and have bookmarked this page to remember all your tips! One question: how much did you end up spending over the 4week period?

Did you fly in and out of the same airport at the beginning and end of your trip? I am looking at doing a 4-5 week solo SE trip next summer and I am starting to shop initial flights now.

Hi Maddy! I flew out of Incheon airport in South Korea to Hanoi Vietnam. Then, the last leg of my trip I flew from Bangkok back to Incheon. So, basically, I only booked one way tickets for each leg. Hope that helps 🙂

Best itinerary I have seen by far! So if you had a little longer – say 6-7 weeks what else would you have done? Would you be able to give a rough guesstimate of how much you spent or how much you would recommend to bring?

Thanks so much! If I had longer I would definitely explore more of Vietnam. Add in Sapa, perhaps. I also would’ve made my way to Chiang Rai and at least one of the islands in Thailand.

Tonkin - Travel Vietnam

Oh, welcome to Vietnam! I’m very happy when you love Vietnam. If you want to come back Vietnam once more, please add Hue Imperial City, Mekong Delta or some islands like Phu Quoc or Con Dao in your itinerary.

Hi Colby, I found your blog by accident back in November and I liked your itinerary. I just completed my 21 day solo trip to all the places you went in Vietnam and Cambodia, I added Phuket for 3 days and one day in Beijing since I got my free miles flight from there to NY. Thank you sooooo much for having this information available, it made the difference since I was overwhelmed with the possibilities and I planned this at the last minute. All the best! Cris

Thanks so much Chris! Gotta love those free flights :). I wish I’d gotten the chance to visit Phuket, but I’m thinking about going back later this year. Any recommendations on where to stay?

Steph Brown

Thanks for this post! My boyfriend and I are nearly at the end of our 4 week SEA trip and used your blog as a guide for our trip! We even stayed at the Golden Charm in Hanoi, which was great!

That’s amazing! I hope you guys are loving SEA as much as I did!

Andrea Bojkovska

Hi, thanks for the post, I will certainly use it as a guide! Can you tell me how much money did you spend total for these 4 weeks? Cheers

Fabian Keresztfalvi

Great info. I love SEA too. Might go back again, maybe to Vietnam and Cambodia. Thanks for sharing.

Backyard Travel

As read above i remember my journey that was great time in Asia. As my Thai visa was almost over I needed to cross the Thai border. I was on the island Koh Chang close to Cambodia. I went to the local tourist office and I booked a ticket to Siem Reap by road that was amazing tour ad fit to my pocket.

Thanks for sharing such an amazing & informative blog which will surely be a big help to those travelling to the southeast asia.Out of many amazing places in asia vietnam is quite popular because of the cost of travelling is quite low as compared to other southasian countries. There are many amazing places to visit and out of many the beach resorts in the southern part of the country is very popular among the tourists.There one can find many beautiful beach resorts which provides top class hospitality

Hi John! Thanks so much for reading. I agree, there are so many amazing places in Vietnam. It was my favorite country while traveling through Southeast Asia. I’d love to return and experience a beach resort.

Thanks so much for sharing! I’m starting to plan my month-long SEA adventure for this summer and your guide is super useful for giving me an idea of where to start 🙂 In terms of the flights you took between the various destinations, did you book these in advance/ahead of your trip? Or is it possible to still find cheap deals while you’re out there planning your journey ahead? Also, as a solo traveller, what was your experience with befriending other travellers out there?

Hi Megan! I’m so glad this was helpful! I did a little of both. Some flights I booked ahead of time, others I booked while traveling. I found flights as cheap as like 19 euro, so you can definitely still find really good deals while on the road. Plus, not booking everything in advance gives you the flexibility to change your schedule around. By the time I made it to Chiang Mai. I was exhausted! I was supposed to go down to the islands, but opted to just stay in Chiang Mai longer. I hadn’t booked my flight yet, so I didn’t feel like I was losing money or anything.

As a solo traveler, it is SUPER easy meeting people. I stayed in hostels while doing SEA so I’d hang out with people also staying there, or my roomies. I met people by simply eating breakfast at a café and they would strike up a conversation with me (I’m more of an introvert, so I hardly ever initiate convos, but will happily talk to people who approach me haha). There are so many solo travelers, digital nomads, and just all around friendly people in SEA, I never really felt alone, unless I wanted to be. I hope this helps and I hope you have an amazing trip!!

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Uncover the Secrets of Southeast Asia: A 4-Week Cultural Odyssey

Imagine waking up to the sound of chanting monks, exploring ancient temples lost in time, and savoring exotic flavors that dance on your tongue. Picture yourself cruising through emerald waters dotted with limestone karsts, their jagged silhouettes piercing the mist-shrouded dawn.

Southeast Asia is a land of contrasts, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with vibrant modernity. Our meticulously crafted 4-week journey, “ Temples, Traditions, and Timeless Treasures ,” takes you on an unforgettable adventure through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. This isn’t just a vacation; it’s a deep dive into the heart and soul of a region that has captivated travelers for centuries.

Experience the thrill of:

• Watching the sunrise over the iconic spires of Angkor Wat
• Participating in a traditional alms-giving ceremony with saffron-robed monks in Luang Prabang
• Creating your own lantern and releasing it on the Thu Bon River in Hoi An
• Kayaking through hidden lagoons in the otherworldly landscape of Halong Bay
• Mastering the art of Southeast Asian cuisine in hands-on cooking classes

Immerse yourself in local cultures, uncover hidden gems, and create memories that will last a lifetime. This journey offers a perfect balance of iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path experiences, ensuring you’ll see the best of Southeast Asia while avoiding the tourist traps.

Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Join us on this carefully curated 4-week odyssey through Southeast Asia.

Week 1: Thailand – The Land of Smiles

Your adventure begins in Bangkok, Thailand’s pulsating capital. As you step into the bustling streets, the air thick with the aroma of street food and incense, you’ll immediately feel the energy of this dynamic city. Spend your first day exploring the Grand Palace, a dazzling complex of golden spires and intricate mosaics that has been the official residence of Thai kings since 1782. The adjacent Wat Pho, home to the enormous Reclining Buddha, offers a serene contrast to the grandeur of the palace.

On your second day, rise early to experience the Chatuchak Weekend Market, a labyrinth of over 8,000 stalls selling everything from vintage clothing to exotic pets. For a unique perspective on the city, take an afternoon long-tail boat tour through Bangkok’s hidden canals, or “khlongs,” where you’ll glimpse local life away from the tourist trail.

From Bangkok, journey north to Ayutthaya, the former capital of Siam. Rent a bicycle to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historical Park, where crumbling prangs (reliquary towers) and weather-worn Buddha statues stand as silent witnesses to the city’s former glory. As the sun sets, watch the ruins transform in the golden light – a truly magical experience.

Your Thai adventure concludes in Sukhothai, the birthplace of Thai civilization. The Sukhothai Historical Park is a masterpiece of 13th-century urban planning, with its perfectly symmetrical layout and serene Buddha images. Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in a local pottery workshop, where you can try your hand at creating Sangkhalok ceramics, a craft that has been practiced here for centuries.

Week 2: Laos – The Land of a Million Elephants

Crossing into Laos, you’ll immediately notice a change of pace. In Luang Prabang, the spiritual heart of the country, time seems to slow down. Rise before dawn to witness the daily alms-giving ceremony, where hundreds of saffron-robed monks silently collect offerings from devoted locals. This ancient ritual, set against the backdrop of French colonial architecture, is a profound and moving experience.

Spend your afternoons exploring the town’s many gilded temples, or take a refreshing dip in the turquoise pools of Kuang Si Falls. For a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the mighty Mekong River, climb to the top of Mount Phousi at sunset.

Your journey continues to Vang Vieng, a small town set against a backdrop of karst limestone cliffs. Once known for its wild parties, Vang Vieng has reinvented itself as an eco-tourism destination. Explore the ethereal Tham Phu Kham Cave, home to a reclining Buddha statue, before cooling off in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon.

In Vientiane, Laos’ laid-back capital, visit the golden stupa of Pha That Luang, the national symbol of Laos. For a sobering but important experience, stop by the COPE Visitor Centre to learn about the ongoing impact of unexploded ordnance from the Vietnam War and the inspiring work being done to help victims.

Week 3: Cambodia and Vietnam – Ancient Wonders and Colonial Charm

Flying into Siem Reap, Cambodia, you’ll be on the doorstep of one of the world’s most magnificent archaeological sites: Angkor. Rise early to watch the sun rise over the iconic silhouette of Angkor Wat, its reflection shimmering in the still waters of the moat. Spend the next few days exploring the vast complex, from the enigmatic faces of the Bayon to the jungle-entangled ruins of Ta Prohm.

For a change of pace, take a boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake, where you can observe life in the floating villages. In the evening, be amazed by the incredible acrobatics and storytelling of Phare, the Cambodian Circus, which provides opportunities for disadvantaged youth.

From the ancient to the modern, your next stop is Da Nang, Vietnam’s up-and-coming coastal city. Climb the Marble Mountains for stunning views over My Khe Beach and explore the hidden shrines and grottoes within. As the sun sets, join locals for a seafood feast on the bustling beachfront.

A short drive brings you to Hoi An, a UNESCO-listed ancient town that seems frozen in time. Wander the narrow streets lined with yellow ochre buildings, stopping to admire the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Participate in a lantern-making workshop and release your creation on the Thu Bon River – a beautiful sight as hundreds of colorful lanterns float downstream. For a taste of rural Vietnamese life, cycle through the lush Tra Que Vegetable Village and join a cooking class using freshly harvested ingredients.

Week 4: Vietnam – From Capital City to Natural Wonder

Your journey culminates in Hanoi, Vietnam’s charming capital. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets of the Old Quarter, where each street historically specialized in a specific trade. Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, founded in 1076 to honor Confucius. In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show, an art form unique to northern Vietnam.

For a grand finale, embark on an overnight cruise in Halong Bay. As your boat weaves through the thousands of limestone karsts rising dramatically from the emerald waters, you’ll understand why this is one of Vietnam’s most beloved natural wonders. Kayak through hidden lagoons, explore vast cave systems, and watch the sun set over the bay from the deck of your ship. It’s a fittingly spectacular end to your Southeast Asian odyssey.

Practical Considerations

Best time to visit.

The best time to embark on this journey is between November and February when the weather is generally dry and cooler. However, this is also peak tourist season, so book accommodations in advance, especially in popular destinations like Siem Reap and Hoi An.

Transportation

Transportation will involve a mix of flights, buses, and trains. While flights between countries will save time, overnight trains can be a comfortable and scenic option for some routes, such as between Hanoi and Da Nang.

Expect to spend between $2,800 and $3,800 USD for the entire trip, excluding international flights to and from Southeast Asia. This can vary greatly depending on your accommodation choices and spending habits.

Accommodation

Southeast Asia caters to all budgets:

• Mid-range: Boutique hotels like Little Hoi An Boutique Hotel
• Luxury: Historic hotels like Sofitel Legend Metropole in Hanoi

No trip to Southeast Asia would be complete without indulging in the incredible cuisine. From pad Thai in Bangkok to pho in Hanoi, your taste buds are in for a treat. Don’t miss regional specialties like fish amok in Cambodia or cao lau in Hoi An.

• Thailand: 30-day visa-free entry for many nationalities
• Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam: Visas on arrival or e-visas available for most travelers Always check the latest requirements before your trip.

Health Precautions

• Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A and Typhoid
• Consider Japanese Encephalitis vaccine and malaria prophylaxis for rural areas
• Always consult with a travel doctor before your trip

This journey through Southeast Asia offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from ancient temples to pristine beaches, bustling markets to serene landscapes. It’s a trip that will challenge your perceptions, tantalize your senses, and leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Whether you’re wandering through the ruins of Angkor at dawn, sharing a meal with locals in a Lao village, or watching the limestone karsts of Halong Bay drift by, you’ll find yourself constantly amazed by the beauty, complexity, and warmth of this incredible region.

So pack your bags, open your mind, and prepare for an adventure that will not just show you Southeast Asia, but will allow you to experience it with all your senses. The temples, traditions, and timeless treasures of this remarkable part of the world are waiting to be discovered.

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Ultimate 4-week SE Asia itinerary: Best of Vietnam, Indonesia, Singapore

For those of us living in Europe or America, a trip to SE Asia is not only a top bucket list item but a significant investment of time and money. Considering the airfare prices and time it will take just to reach one of the major transportation hubs such as Bangkok, Singapore of Hong Kong, a visit to SE Asia is best enjoyed if you have time on your side. When my fiancé and I managed to carve a month out of our hectic London lives, we knew that this would be it. Time to make a dream come true. Here’s the 4-week SE Asia itinerary for our incredible trip to Singapore, Vietnam and Indonesia and one of the most extraordinary experiences of our lives.

• GOOGLE MAPS

Total No of days: 26 (excluding transfer time from / to Europe)

Singapore: 4 overnight stays

Vietnam: 8 overnight stays

Indonesia: 14 overnight stays

Who is this itinerary best suited to?

Travellers who love culture, nature and aquatic activities in equal measure.

Backpackers, flashpackers & luxury travellers. You can easily adjust the quality of your accommodation & meals accordingly!

When is the best time for this itinerary?

We took our trip in September which is well within the best time to visit Northern Vietnam, Indonesia & Singapore

OUR 4-WEEK SE ASIA ITINERARY

✈️ 13h direct flight from London

We flew directly from London to Singapore with British Airways. Our 13h flight on the top deck of Airbus A380 in economy class was actually quite comfortable!

Upon hitting the tarmac, I got so excited not only because our adventure began but also because Changi airport is amongst the best in the world ! We didn’t rush to the exit but took a little detour to check out the incredible Rain Vortex, make sure not to miss it!

4 incredible days & nights in Garden City!

The perfect amount of time to get a taste of the incredible sights, experiences and cuisine that Singapore has to offer, especially if this is your first time in the city , as it was for us.

Nevertheless, I really want to visit Singapore again and explore more, so you can definitely spend more days here if you wish. 

✈️ 3.5h direct flight from Singapore

A short and sweet stay to get a glimpse of the capital of Vietnam!

When planning this trip, friends who visited Hanoi told us that one night in Hanoi is enough because most visitors (especially westerners) either love it or hate it, and you don’t know which camp you are going to be in! Indeed, I have not seen anything like this before in my life!

Walking around in Hanoi (especially in the historic centre) can be an incredibly overwhelming experience due to the insane traffic! The photo above was a rare moment of tranquility!  

Despite its chaotic energy (or maybe because of it) we really liked Hanoi and would certainly like to go back and explore more. However, I still believe that one day in Hanoi might be enough for the first time traveller!

🚌 + 🛳️ 2h drive from Hanoi to the coast; the islets of Ha Long Bay are just a stone’s throw away from there

Time for a classic bucket list item, a dreamy two-night cruise in Ha Long Bay!

Visiting Ha Long Bay was one of my most anticipated things for this trip and it certainly did not disappoint. The natural beauty of the area is jaw dropping and the floating villages are really impressive too .

Ha Long Bay is certainly worth the hype and our boat, Paradise Elegance, certainly enhanced the experience. Most people opt for the 1-night cruise but I am glad that we chose the 2-day itinerary . We had enough time to enjoy this magical place and relax in the beautiful boat.

🚕 3h drive from the coast of Ha Long Bay

Another classic Vietnam destination!

Ninh Binh is quite an established stop on the travellers’ trail and its nickname ‘Ha Long Bay on land’, should give you a hint as to what this is about. Nevertheless, it is certainly not redundant to visit Ninh Binh after Ha Long Bay, in fact this was one of favourite places in Vietnam!

Otherworldly boat rides, incredible natural landscapes, serene bike rides in the countryside and Buddhist temples galore , our three days in Ninh Binh were filled to the brim with awe inspiring sights and unique experiences.

🚕 + 🚂 + 🚕 1.5h drive from Ninh Binh to Hanoi + overnight train to Lao Cai + 1h drive to Sapa

A barrage of extraordinary experiences in rural Vietnam…

The charming overnight sleeper train took us to the northern mountains of Vietnam. We hiked through the incredible terraced rice fields guided by one of the lovely ladies of Sapa Sisters , an ethnic minority Hmong trekking group, before having lunch at a local home. That’s just day one! A spectacular cable car ride up to Fansipan , the tallest peak of Vietnam made for a relaxing second, and final day, in Sapa.

🚌 + ✈️ 4h drive from Sapa to Hanoi airport; flight duration to Bali varies (direct flights are quite limited)

Sea, sand, surf and those incredible Bali vibes!

After a long day of travelling, we made it to Bali! We spent 4 days next to the ocean in the dramatic cliffs of Uluwatu while exploring southern Bali and indulging in some serious beach club hopping! (We saved the more cultural endeavours for when we move on to Ubud… )!

✈️ + 🚤 1h flight from Bali + 40min (or so) boat ride from Labuan Bajo

Embrace your inner little mermaid and explore life under the sea!

The coral reefs in Seraya are a lively colourful world that seems like it was taken out of Disney’s ‘Little Mermaid’ and dropped in the shallow waters in front of our lovely bamboo hut! We were absolutely stunned every time we put on our snorkels and swam just a few metres off the shore…

Chatting to other guests and staff over drinks and dinner under the stars was also great fun and, of course, we had a blast exploring Komodo National Park… The Seraya is certainly a hidden Indonesian gem, tell only your best friends…

🚤 20min boat trip from Seraya island (or 1h boat trip from Labuan Bajo)

Yo ho ho, a pirate’s life is certainly for me!

From the little beach shacks that we slept in, to the phenomenal turquoise coloured water that we woke up right next to, this is one of the best Robinson Crusoe experiences you’ll get with a cocktail in hand! We had so much fun!

Le Pirate Island is the perfect destination for those who love a little bit of flashpacking, wonderful snorkelling and friendly chats with other like-minded travellers…

🚤 + ✈️ 1h by boat from Le Pirate Island to Labuan Bajo + 1h flight to Bali

Back in Bali for the second part of our island exploration: Ubud and the centre of the island!

Ubud is such a cool place to have a coffee, relax, explore the temples and walk through the Monkey Forest . Further out, there are incredible waterfalls, rice terraces and Mount Batur volcano to explore!

After spending a total of 9 nine days in Bali, I can certainly attest to the island’s magnetic energy! Bali is certainly beautiful but there is something more about this island that I cannot put my finger on; it certainly leaves you wanting more!

✈️ 2.5 flight from Bali to Singapore + ✈️ 13h flight to London

An epic trip comes to an end . We loved every single minute and feel like we had the experiences of three more lifetimes in the space of a month… SE Asia, we will be back!

If we had even more time, I’d love to have visited central Vietnam (Hoi An and Hue) before heading to Indonesia. Also, I wish we could spend a night or two more in Le Pirate Island as it turned out to be such a fun experience!

HOW DID WE PUT TOGETHER OUR 4-WEEK SE ASIA ITINERARY?

When we first started daydreaming about a trip to SE Asia, my fiancé and I were really keen on visiting Singapore, Vietnam and Cambodia. However, we were also open to seeing what else is out there; SE Asia truly is a vast place filled with wonderful sights and experiences.

In retrospective, being flexible and open to travel ideas actually helped us a lot because the biggest factor that ended up shaping our 4-week SE Asia itinerary was the weather. Travelling off season in tropical destinations is not really our jam . The timings for being able to have a break from work were very specific, so we had to adjust our itinerary to that time of the year. So, we picked places in SE Asia, where September would not suck, and preferably be a good time to visit . This itinerary generally works well when travelling during April, May, September & October (which are the best months for visiting all relevant locations combined).

If you are struggling with when to go where in SE Asia, make sure to check out at my overview of the best time to visit the various countries of SE Asia .

DECIDING ON VISITING SINGAPORE

Singapore was the first and easiest destination that we decided on. This is such an iconic SE Asia destination and it only takes a direct long-haul flight from London to get there. Also, the weather does not change that much throughout the year, so visiting Singapore was a no-brainer!

DECIDING ON VISITING VIETNAM

Things got a bit trickier after that. When I started researching about Vietnam, I realised that September is not a great time to visit the southern part of the country (or the majority of mainland SE Asia). This was a bit disappointing as it made us abandon our original idea for travelling through the whole of Vietnam by train and popping to Cambodia. Strangely though, September is a good time to visit northern and central Vietnam. We really wanted to visit Ha Long Bay, so northern Vietnam became our next stop after Singapore.

DECIDING ON VISITING INDONESIA

For the second half of the trip, we decided to explore Indonesia as September is one of the best months to visit the country . When we started looking into Bali and Flores, we quickly realised that after two weeks of urban and cultural delights in Singapore and northern Vietnam, our trip would now take an exciting turn to more beach time and nature activities! A perfect blend of everything we love doing while travelling! Yeah!

DECIDING ON HOW MANY NIGHTS WE SHOULD STAY IN EACH PLACE

Before putting together this itinerary, I did some research to gauge what would be the main things worth seeing in each place. I then tried to allocate them in a way that we would have one or maximum two activities per day. No more. Trying to do too much in a day has always been a big no no for us, as we want to have enough time and energy to fully appreciate and enjoy our surroundings. For that reason, we also chose to stay for at least two nights in most locations. For the second half of the trip, we extended our stays to 4-5 nights in order to make sure that we didn’t run out of steam after the whirlwind of the first two weeks.

Nevertheless, our itinerary still involved a fair amount of transferring and hotel changing. So, if you are planning a similar (or the same!) itinerary, my advice to you would be to pack light.

FINAL THOUGHTS: HOW DID OUR 4-WEEK SE ASIA TRIP GO?

In retrospective, our trip exceeded even our wildest expectations . When we came back, our friends were asking us which place we liked the best and we honestly could not choose one over the other! I still haven’t really decided which part was my favourite! This itinerary combined culture, nature, beach time and city time and allowed us to have so many wonderful and unique experiences and see so many things while also having time to relax and enjoy! Needless to say, I wouldn’t change a thing…

This is not a sponsored post & I am not affiliated with any of the hotels, restaurants or organisations mentioned.

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The Ultimate Southeast Asia Itinerary

06/17/2018 by Ashley Yap 14 Comments

The parallel universe called Southeast Asia draws me in over and over again. Coming to Southeast Asia feels like coming home. Each time I return, I find comfort in the ease of traveling there, the excitement of new discoveries, and the energy hanging in the sweet, sticky air.

I’ve traveled in Southeast Asia for over 2 cumulative years, going from popular spots to places that do not even have an English name yet. Whether you are a budget backpacker, solo traveler, a couple, family, or a group of friends, Southeast Asia’s bound to have something intriguing for you. This could make planning a trip to Southeast Asia overwhelming – there’s just so much to see and do!

So let’s make it easy. Here are a few amazing Southeast Asia itineraries, customized to different interests, ranging from 2 weeks to 3 months:

Table of Contents

2-Week Southeast Asia Itinerary

While two weeks is simply too short to attempt to see all of Southeast Asia, the good news is that you can still get a delicious taste of Southeast Asia all within 2 weeks.

My advice is to pick fewer places to see, and take travel time into account. Some countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam are easy to get around, whereas countries like Myanmar and the Philippines require much longer travel times to move from one place to another. Here are a few itinerary suggestions for 2 weeks in Southeast Asia that cover 2 countries:

Best of Both Worlds: Philippines + Singapore

Spend about 10 days in the Philippines and maximize your time in nature, be it the beautiful islands , the most stunning rice terraces, or the amazing waterfalls. You can narrow down the specifics by picking your favorites from this itinerary . Then fly over to Singapore and enjoy the metropolitan city, eat all the food, and have the country’s signature drink, Singapore Sling, at one of the many speakeasy cocktail bars before your flight home.

Hiking Adventures: Borneo + Indonesia

Spend about 4 days in Borneo and hike up to the country’s highest peak, Mount Kinabalu , which requires a minimum of 2 days, then check out the orangutans of Sepilok. Next, fly over to East Java, Indonesia, to hike Mount Rinjani , or Mount Bromo . Spend your last few days relaxing in Bali or Lombok before flying home.

Sun, Sea, and Salt: Southern Thailand + Malaysia

Spend a week in each country. Both countries are home to some of the most gorgeous islands I’ve ever been to. Some of my favorite islands are Koh Chang , The Similan Islands, Koh Yao Noi , Langkawi , The Perhentian Islands, and Tioman Island.

A Cultural Experience: Myanmar + Cambodia

Spend about 10 days in Myanmar, not only because there’s  so much to see and do , but also because transportation can be pretty difficult. Expect to spend some nights on bumpy overnight buses. Bagan, Mandalay, and Yangon are awesome for anyone seeking a cultural experience thanks to the beautiful temples and the less touristy feel of Myanmar. Fly over to Cambodia and continue your journey with an awe-inspiring trip to the majestic Angkor Wat (you will need at least 2 full days for that, trust me!), and hang out with the locals before your flight home from Siem Reap.

Overland Travel: Southern Vietnam + Cambodia

Spend a week in each country. There’s a ton of things to do in both southern Vietnam and Cambodia, but it’s also easy to pick and choose based on your interests. My suggestion is to start your trip in Siem Reap and see as much as you can of Angkor Wat in 2 days, and take an overnight bus to Sihanoukville’s Otres Beach for some R&R time, before another bus ride to Ho Chi Minh City. Apart from eating all the food , there’s a lot of history to explore especially for those interested in visiting the Củ Chi tunnels and the War Remnants museum. From there, it’s another bus ride to Mui Ne for some sandboarding fun, and Da Lat to check out some beautiful waterfalls, before flying home from Ho Chi Minh City.

Slow-Paced Travel: Laos + Northern Thailand

Laos is incredibly slow paced and rustic, which is great for relaxation and discovery. Spend about 9 days in Laos and you will find yourself surrounded by the most incredible waterfalls in the northern city of Luang Prabang, floating down the river on a tube, or motorbiking the Bolaven Plateau down south. Then take a slow boat to northern Thailand, and spend the next few days exploring Pai , savoring delicious local food, and temple hopping  in Chiang Mai before flying home.

First Name:

1-Month Southeast Asia Itinerary

If you have a full month, I’d suggest picking 1 country and really doing it justice, or picking 2 countries and spending about 2 weeks each. You can refer to the itineraries above and combine 2 of them, or pick 3 countries and spend about 10 days each. Here are some more adventure possibilities:

Island Fever: Philippines + Indonesia

One could easily spend a full month just in Indonesia or the Philippines, and still feel rushed since both are island nations with so much distance to cover. The good news is both have tons of variety and each one has its own unique luster. The Philippines is known for friendly people and stunning beaches, whereas Indonesia is known for having great food, some of the best diving in the world, and unique culture on each island. The good news is both are pretty cheap to enjoy. I suggest either picking one to explore over the course of one month, or spending half of your time in each. Here’s a Philippines itinerary and an Indonesia itinerary to help you narrow down exactly where you wish to go.

If you’re into diving, after much exploration in all of the best spots in both the Philippines and Indonesia, I can confidently recommend Raja Ampat if traveling in October – April and Komodo if traveling in May-September. Both will blow your mind!

Food and Culture: Singapore + Northern Thailand + Myanmar

Myanmar is not the quickest to travel through, but it’s also one of the best places in Southeast Asia for cultural exploration, gorgeous temples, friendly locals, and an opportunity to head farther off the beaten path than one can find in places like Thailand these days. With three weeks in Myanmar, you should be able to complete this Myanmar itinerary .

Best of both worlds: Vietnam + Cambodia

One of the best trips in Southeast Asia is traveling from tip to tip of Vietnam, either beginning in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City (but don’t forget to include  Sapa, Vietnam !). Give this Vietnam itinerary at least three weeks if you can, then head into Cambodia for Angkor Wat and if you have time, check out the smaller towns like  Kratie in Cambodia or head to the coast.

Off the beaten path: Laos + Myanmar

If you want to get away from the typical tourist route and are at peace with missing the Thai islands, focus on Laos and Myanmar, both of which are stunning countries that get fewer visitors. Either give two weeks to each country, picking your favorites from the Laos and Myanmar itineraries , or give one more weight and spend the bulk of your time in whichever calls to you more. Just make sure that at some point, you’re able to get to a major enough city to fly between the two to save time.

3-Month Southeast Asia Itinerary

You’ve got three months in Southeast Asia? Awesome! You can take your time more and enjoy each place you visit a bit more fully and feel less like you’re rushing around. While it may be tempting to try to blast through every country in Southeast Asia within these three months, as many travelers do, I highly advocate taking this time to more deeply immerse in the local culture and explore further than the well known destinations.

Since you have so much more time than the other itineraries, I’d leave a lot more room for serendipity and just pick a few must-sees to plan your trip around.

Here are the places that I recommend based on different interests to help you build a framework:

If You’re into Local Culture

For me, part of the allure of Southeast Asia is the various cultural sites and temples. Most countries have an interesting mix of different history, religions, and beliefs, resulting in different religious sites, styles of architecture, and cuisines. Here are the go-to places if you want to immerse yourself in the local culture:

Bagan, Myanmar: A UNESCO Heritage site and valley of more than 2,000+ ancient temples built during a golden era of Burma in the 12th century, this place is a must-see if you love temples. The best way to explore Bagan is to rent a bike and roam freely. Chances are you will end up in your own private little temple with no one else around to catch a beautiful sunrise or sunset.

Inle Lake, Myanmar: The floating villages, which are essentially neighborhoods on stilts, where locals live in huts built above a network of marsh and grass waterways, is a beautiful place to take a peek at the locals’ daily life. Take a boat and see what it’s like living on water.

Luang Prabang, Laos: Aside from the popular Kuang Si Waterfalls, Luang Prabang is also known for the early morning alms, where hundreds of monks walk along the streets to collect offerings from the locals. It is quite a sight that is worth setting your alarm for. Just make sure you watch it with distance and respect, and not be one of those tourists who shove their big cameras up in the monks’ faces.

Siam Reap, Cambodia: Angkor Wat is perhaps the most recognizable temple in Southeast Asia. Though the ticket prices have increased steeply over the years, you should still consider visiting it, especially if you are interested in temples and ruins.

Chiang Rai, Thailand:  The north of Thailand is home to some of the most creative temples I’ve seen, and there are hundreds of them. I promise you won’t get templed out if you pick the right ones to visit, though. My personal favorite is the White Temple , an architectural wonder that started in 1997, and is still undergoing construction until 2070.

Borneo: In Sarawak, the local tribes stay together in a longhouse. By together, I mean with the entire extended family. You can arrange a longhouse homestay with the local communities and experience what it’s like to live as a local tribe. Follow the family around as they go about their day, hang out with the children, and chat with the elders for a unique and unforgettable experience. Similar experiences are available in Sapa, northern Vietnam.

If You’re a Foodie

Bangkok, Thailand:  So. Much. Food! Whether it’s a local food market, street food stalls, or the restaurants galore in the giant shopping malls, Bangkok is guaranteed to satisfy your appetite. What’s really cool about Thai food is that you can try the same dish at drastically different price points. Pad Thai is a great example – I’ve had them straight from the wok at a night market for less than $1, at local restaurants for a bit more, and at luxury hotels for 5 times the price. To be honest, the street version is always my favorite! Needless to say, being a foodie in Bangkok is a lot of fun. Here are a few more of my suggestions on how to really fall in love with Bangkok.

Chiang Mai, Thailand : Aside from the delicious northern cuisine, Chiang Mai is also a great place to attend a cooking class and bring new skills home. In Chiang Mai, I went with Basil Cookery school which was pretty healthy and very well-run. You can see more about the cooking class and other Chiang Mai favorites here.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia : The capital city of Malaysia is a foodie’s wonderland, thanks to the country’s multiracial profile. Spoil yourself and indulge in Chinese, Malay, Indian and international cuisine at a reasonable price range. Immerse in the local culture by checking out a mamak (Indian Muslim eatery) for some awesome supper at night. There is a popular mamak within walking distance from the Petronas Twin Towers, in case you are wondering which one to go to!

Hanoi, Vietnam : Vietnamese food is a powerhouse mix of influences from all over the world. French, Chinese, and Japanese flavors blend with Vietnam’s own unique approach to food to create an unforgettable culinary experience. In Hanoi, the best way to sample the food is through a street food tour. Just ask your hostel / hotel for recommendations! Also, don’t forget to try an egg coffee at Cafe Giang! It sounds strange but it’s probably the best coffee I’ve ever had in my life, and that’s coming from a friend.

Singapore : As it’s the most expensive country in Southeast Asia, one would think that eating in Singapore is an expensive affair. I was very pleasantly surprised at how easy it is to find cheap and delicious street food through the hawker stalls, as well as hippie cafes serving western and even vegan food when I felt the need for a change.

If You’re into Beaches

These are not the typical suggestions you probably see that feature Phuket and Koh Samui. I like the places that fly under the radar a bit more, just on the cusp of popularity. They’re amazing because of who they attract, the fact that they aren’t as crowded, but that they offer the same as, or even more than, their more-known counterparts.

El Nido, The Philippines : With beautiful white sand beaches and blue waters, El Nido has everything a beach lover wants. Don’t limit yourself to just the main island, as there are many small islands around it worth exploring. Just search around and book an island hopping tour , and you will find yourself swimming in the crystal clear water, with a chance to encounter whale sharks and manta rays. For a unique experience, you can also camp on the beach.

Siargao, The Philippines : An off the beaten path island that is becoming more popular, but is still a laid-back surf island. Locals will welcome you into their guesthouses with open arms for you to explore powdery, undeveloped nearby islands, local cafes, fish markets, and surf!

The Nusa Islands, Indonesia : You can easily hop from one island to another, which is what makes the Nusa Islands so appealing even for those that are short on time. Each island has a ton of beautiful beaches and things to do. Click here for an awesome Nusa Islands itinerary !

The Gili Islands, Indonesia : Another 3-in-1 package deal, you can hop from Gili Air, to Gili Meno, and to Gili Trawangan . Each island offers a slightly different vibe, but all three islands have one thing in common – gorgeous beaches.

Tonsai Beach, Thailand : Rock climbers, slack liners, and beach bums alike love this hippie paradise. Go there and enjoy, but don’t tell anyone about it, okay?

Koh Chang, Thailand : I love Koh Chang because it’s closer to Bangkok than the southern islands in Thailand, making it a great choice for those low on time, and it’s just as beautiful but less touristy. It’s also lovingly referred to as the ‘last cheap island’ in Thailand. Lonely Beach is the backpacker hangout, though the whole island is worth exploring. It is also, in my opinion, the best island in Thailand for solo backpackers.

Perhentian Islands, Malaysia : These two islands right next to each other are so darn beautiful, and there’s a nice backpacker vibe on the smaller island. Book ahead when heading here, as things fill up quickly. Internet is very limited on the island, which is perfect for those who are seeking for a break from social media and work emails. It’s also great for diving!

If You’re into Hiking

Mount Rinjani, Indonesia : This 3 day/2 night hike was a truly unforgettable experience for me. I recommend showing up on Lombok and booking directly with a tour operator there rather than organizing through a travel agent elsewhere in Indonesia or online. The first two days of the trek are not too challenging, though the last day gets tough, offering a sweeping view from the top of the volcano as a reward. Find the  full guide to hiking Mount Rinjani here . I also highly recommend staying in Lombok and exploring the many waterfalls and beaches. It’s one of my favorites in all of Southeast Asia.

Mount Bromo, Indonesia : Mount Bromo is probably Indonesia’s most famous volcano. It sits at the eastern end of Java between Surabaya and Yogyakarta and is quite often lumped in as part of a tour heading out of one of those two cities. There are tons of tour operators selling Jeep tours to Mount Bromo, which is fun to some, but I did it independently and preferred it that way.

Kawah Ijen, Indonesia : Slightly more off the beaten path compared to Mount Rinjani and Mount Bromo, Mount Ijen is perfect for those who want to see something different (note: blue flames!). The volcano itself  is beautiful but hiking in with the stars, getting up close to the blue flames and viewing the truly stunning sunrise are what makes Mount Ijen so unique and special.

Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia : Why not hike up to the highest mountain in Southeast Asia? I managed to hike to the top in one day , but since the earthquake, it is no longer permitted. Hikers are required to do a minimum of 2D1N compulsory climb these days. The hike is challenging, almost entirely straight up stairs, but the view on top is absolutely stunning. Given the weather conditions, hikers often make it close to the summit and have to turn back. If possible, leave some room for serendipity just in case you need to stay one more night for the bad weather to pass.

Doi Chiang Dao, Thailand : Doi Chiang Dao is Thailand’s third tallest peak, accessible via a fairly easy drive 1.5 hours north of Chiang Mai and surrounded by mountain after mountain in every direction. It’s a lovely hike worth including in your northern Thailand itinerary. Concrete information online was hard to find, so here’s my guide to hiking Doi Chiang Dao that has everything you need to know!

Kalaw, Myanmar : Many people visiting the popular Inle Lake choose to do a 3-day trek from Kalaw to get there. The trek takes you through valleys and small villages where you’ll stay each night, experiencing rural Myanmar life. The cost is cheap, the views are spectacular, and the trek is life-changing. There are no hot showers, no electricity, and no internet, just pure experiences with the nicest people on earth.

If You’re into Diving

Raja Ampat, Indonesia : The liveaboard diving trip I did in Raja Ampat was the hands down best diving trip I’ve ever done in my life, and this is coming from a girl who has done more than 150 dives! The area was largely uninhabited, where I spent afternoons pretending to be a mermaid, and the time spent under water was incredible, with tons of diversity and abundance of sea creatures. If you want to see Manta rays, turtles, Wobbegong sharks, Mobula rays, Spotted rays, Black-Tipped Reef sharks and Groupers, go to Raja Ampat. It’s worth going the distance for.

Sipadan Island, Borneo : It’s called one of the best diving sites in the world for a reason. I love that they limit the area to only 120 divers per day, which really helps sustain the ecosystem and keeps the site beautiful and safe for both the sea creatures and visitors. Make sure you book at least 2 weeks in advance.

Coron, Philippines : This was another liveaboard diving trip I did in the Philippines and enjoyed thoroughly. If you love wreck dives, Coron is the perfect choice for you. I remember clocking around 10 wreck dives in 6 days!

Tioman Island, Malaysia : So underrated, but so good! The island is dreamy and beautiful, yet you won’t have to share it with too many other people. My guess is that since the restaurant choices are very limited, alcohol isn’t widely available, and you can pretty much forget about getting on the Internet, it keeps the crowds away.

Komodo, Indonesia: If Raja Ampat and Sipadan take the #1 spot for the best diving I’ve done, then Komodo is a very, very close second. The soft corals are colorful and gorgeous and it’s full of sea turtles and the occasional Manta ray as well. Plus, most liveaboard trips combine an excursion to see the Komodo dragons as well.

If You’re Seeking Spirituality

Chaiya, Thailand : I did a 10-day silent meditation retreat at Wat Suan Mokkh, Chaiya district, located in Surat Thani province, close to the popular Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. The retreat takes place at a Buddhist monastery in the forest where the attendees don’t speak, use technology, or even read books. They just meditate. Held once a month (from the 1st – 10th), Wat Suan Mokkh is a beautiful place for those who are into spirituality and meditation.

New Life Foundation, Thailand : Though this is more of a place to live and volunteer for a month or longer, particularly for those who are stressed out and just need a little vacation from everyday life, they do hold retreats here from time to time. I attended a silent meditation retreat at the center and found it to be more comfortable and an overall easier experience than Wat Suan Mokkh, though the two are hard to compare as they’re so different. You can read more about New Life here .

Bali, Indonesia : If you’re looking for a yoga retreat, Bali is the epicenter of such things in Southeast Asia. Each month all over the island there are tons of retreats to choose from that focus on wholistic wellness, raw food diets, tantric yoga, and a wealth of other options. You can find them on this booking engine . If you want something a bit more relaxed and remote, look at the Nusa Islands , which are just a 30-minute ferry ride away from Bali.

Siquijor Island, Philippines : The mystical island is full of healers and witches. If you want this experience, the first thing to do is talk to a local if you can. See if you can get him or her to bring you to a legitimate shaman. I spoke with another traveler who did a smoke clearing ritual in the middle of the island with a folk healer, which he gave me a moderately excited review of. You can find them  here  if it interests you.

If You’re into Wildlife

Chiang Mai, Thailand : Elephants are one of the icons of Thailand. Many visitors are excited about interacting with them, but sadly, it has resulted in unethical businesses that involve torturing wild elephants to tame them for entertainment purposes. It’s our responsibility, as tourists, to make sure we’re putting our money into the hands of programs that make their lives better. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai is a highly reputable sanctuary for rehabilitated elephants. If you want to play (feed & bathe only, no riding) with elephants ethically, I recommend checking it out.

Sabah, Borneo:  Borneo is a great place for some adventure time deep in the jungle. Danum Valley Conservation Area is a beautiful place known for its beautiful primary forest and wildlife experience. For an experience that will remind you of the Amazon in Peru , check out Lower Kinabatangan River. Finally, Deramakot Forest Reserve is wonderful for many reasons – it is in accordance with good forestry practices, you will have the opportunities to see Pygmy elephants, bearded pigs and orangutans.

Komodo National Park, Indonesia : I had a close encounter with dragons in Komodo . They are the world’s largest, bloodthirsty lizards that roam freely on Rinca Island. This is also the only place on Earth that you can see them, so if you find yourself in Indonesia, be sure to check them out. Other than the Komodo Dragons, you may also chance upon the manta rays, sharks, turtles, and dolphins if you dive!

Bukit Lawang, Sumatra, Indonesia:  For an even more authentic orangutan experience, head to Sumatra. I just loved the little jungle town of Bukit Lawang, accessible via Medan, for hanging out, tubing down the river, and of course, jungle trekking to see the orangutans.

If You’re an Adrenaline Junkie

Cebu, Philippines : Many people rave about the Kawasan Falls tour, for a good reason! It’s a thrilling day trip around the area with canyoneering, cliff jumping, jungle trekking, and swimming on the docket. Your experience ends at Kawasan Falls, a picturesque waterfall that plummets into the turquoise lagoon below and has quickly become an instagram favorite. When you see it, you’ll understand why!

Vang Vieng, Laos : With strict rules and regulations imposed on the once deadly tubing that was notoriously popular among backpackers, the activity is now safer and just as fun as before. Other than tubing, kayaking and rock climbing are also popular in that area.

Gibbon Experience, Laos:  If trekking and ziplining through a lush jungle and staying in a treehouse is on your radar, check out the Gibbon Experience in Laos. Brochures can be found in almost all hostels, so you just have to ask! It’s also possible to book online .

Country Motorbiking in Vietnam or Laos:  If you are comfortable on a motorbike, take a road trip! You get all the freedom in the world, and it’s a great way to experience Vietnam from north to south  (or visa versa) or to explore Laos’ Bolaven Plateau, which is basically waterfall heaven.

If You’re into Off the Beaten Path Adventures

Myanmar:  Myanmar has only decided to open up its door to tourism a little 6 years ago. The locals are still getting used to seeing foreigners, and traveling around can be quite challenging and confusing. However, this is a paradise for those who are looking for a journey in Southeast Asia that’s off the beaten path. Just look further from the popular spots like Yangon and Inle Lake, talk to the locals (many young locals are receiving linguistic education from volunteers, and they are encouraged to practice their English with tourists! Just be friendly and respectful), who will be happy to show you around, rent a bike if you are comfortable on one and just ride away. Check this itinerary for the best spots .

Nong Khiaw, Laos : Though only a 4 hour bus ride away, Nong Khiaw is often hidden in the shadow of Luang Prabang’s popular waterfalls and backpacker area. It is a quiet, laid-back village with just a few guesthouses lying around. There are a few hills that make for amazing sunrise/sunset spots, and if you want to go even further, take a 2 hour walk to another village, Huay Bo, for a rustic, wholesome overnight stay with the locals. You’ll wake up to the sound of roosters, walk around a small village with kids running around, women making Laos liquor, and men working away in the fields.

Lampang, Thailand : Lampang is a northern province that is fairly popular among the locals, but not so much with the foreigners just yet. When I did a road trip there I found an emerald lake and had it to myself, until a small group of local cyclists came. I also hiked up to Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat, Thailand’s floating pagodas , and again, had the place mostly to myself except for a few local tourists. What’s keeping tourists away from these spots is the accessibility, but if you are considering renting a car, you will not have any problem getting there.

I gotta say it’s not easy putting this together, there’s just so much Southeast Asia has to offer! But I hope the itineraries are helpful to you, and if you need more information about each of the Southeast Asian countries, check out the destination page , where I’ve included the essential information, accommodation guides, transportation tips, top things to do, and all of the blog posts from each country. Enjoy the journey, and comment below if there’s any other places in Southeast Asia that you think I should visit next!

What to Pack for Backpacking in Southeast Asia

Solo female travel in southeast asia: everything you need to know, what 6 months of traveling in southeast asia cost me, about ashley yap.

Ashley is the manager of Be My Travel Muse, one of the biggest solo female travel blogs in the world. She's traveled solo to over 20 countries, spending months in each for an immersive experience.

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06/17/2018 at 9:05 pm

Great overview of traveling in Southeast Asia! I have a questions for you. If you could ONLY go back to one country, which one would you choose?

Kristin says

06/19/2018 at 9:31 pm

In Southeast Asia? I’d pick Indonesia because it’s so huge and diverse.

Renuka Walter says

06/18/2018 at 7:30 am

I’m amazed! I’m always looking for a trip somewhere in Europe, but I think I should think about planning a trip in Southeast Asia. Lovely pictures!

06/18/2018 at 10:06 am

You have clearly put a ton of effort into this post, very impressive. You are to be commended and I will use this for any travel I do one day in SE Asia, I promise. The beauty of it is in my case I might be restricted to a few countries and limited time so this will help me immensely in planning a custom itinerary. You seem to really have covered your bases, tapped into years of past posts, videos and personal experiences. A beautiful, organized collage. The only thing I could possibly add to this for those who, in addition to outdoor, solo adventure, like shopping binges along the way is that Kuala Lumpur is ranked 4th in the world by CNN as the best city to shop :). Three of the 10 biggest malls in the world are there, they say at least. I’ve heard Bangkok is pretty good too. I don’t know if this is really an addition to this, but a side note :). As another interesting side note: There is a ski “resort” inside a megamall in Penang, Malaysia called “Snowland” or “Snowland at Megamall Penang”. It looks like fun. According to one site I found, it is fun for those who have never done it before and drops 46 meters and has 6 snow machines which keep it at -5 degrees C in the indoor arena, so it feels real too. Have you ever heard of it? There’s also “SnowTown Saigon” but I think that is more for kids and there is a small ski slope for training (it is warmer though, 10-15C). I found these when wondering about snow/skiing in SE Asia and found “snow” here :). Keep up the fine work you are doing!

06/19/2018 at 9:30 pm

There’s a ski resort in Malaysia?! Wow! Never heard of it until now!

09/23/2018 at 1:39 am

I love this post! I’m going to be in Southeast Asia with my boyfriend for 1,5 months this November and December. Though we’d be considered typical backpackers, being young, on a budget and traveling with a backpack (obviously), we are less into partying and more into exploring. We thought about following route:

Week 1 Starting in Hanoi and experience it for a few days Heading over to Chiang Mai, exploring Northern Thailand (including Wat Chaloem, Doi Inthanon, maybe Pai and the Elephant Nature Park)

Week 2 Traveling to Cambodia and taking a few days to visit Angkor Wat and maybe Sihanoukville Flying to Bangkok

Week 3 Exploring Bangkok Doing some island hopping in the south of Thailand

Week 4 Heading over to Kuala Lumpur for a few days Flying to Singapore and do some sightseeing

Week 5 (and half of Week 6) Bali Chill-Out (maybe exploring Nusa Penida)

I am afraid this could be to strict and fast-paced, but we don’t want to miss out on something. Would you recommend skipping Taiwan, which we want to visit before starting in Hanoi, to have one extra week in SEA (maybe for a whole 2 weeks in Bali and another few days in Northern Thailand)? Or skipping Kuala Lumpur for a few days extra on the islands in South Thailand?

Thanks and keep up the good work!

09/23/2018 at 5:49 pm

I would recommend spending more time in fewer countries and then having looser plans while you’re there. I tend to burn out when I’m moving so fast.

Rickey Masters says

12/04/2018 at 11:52 am

where can you go as a person with a hip disability. I am unable to backpack but can ride motorbikes. I understand my limitations but am eager to make 1 trip to as many countries as I can. time is not a limitation and money would be subject to a medium budget. Thank you for your knowledge and help

12/04/2018 at 11:48 pm

Anyone here have suggestions? I can’t answer from personal experience but I’d love to find out as well!

07/10/2019 at 2:31 am

George Town, Penang Island ‘s d food capital of Malaysia ! Kuala Lumpur pales in comparison..

Carlos says

11/27/2019 at 6:20 pm

Great article, the only thing I miss… where to go if you love to party!

11/28/2019 at 8:06 am

Pretty much everywhere! I’m not a party person but the Thai islands, Cambodian coast, most of the major cities and tourist towns will all have party options.

Siim Kuusik says

01/17/2020 at 12:41 pm

As for me and my girlfriend Malaysia so far has been the best country in Southeast Asia so far, because they have 50% Malaysians 30% Chinese and 20% Indians living there, which means they have the BEST foods there in ONE country. And it is cheap!

Ava Brown says

02/09/2020 at 8:26 pm

Nice blog you have here with unique and different thoughts!

My 4 Month South East Asia Solo Backpacking Itinerary

• Post author: Kieren
• Post last modified: June 1, 2024
• Post category: South East Asia

As an affiliate I may earn a commission on any qualifying purchases, including those from Amazon, at no extra cost to you.

Quit your job and go travelling. It’s the cliche right? Well I did it and the 4 months I spent travelling around South East Asia were some of the best in my life. It was my first big trip as a solo traveller and after 4 months travelling alone I wonder how the heck I ever travelled with other people before.

Of course, travelling solo never really means travelling alone. I met incredible people, travellers and locals, who made the journey extra special. There were relatively few language barriers and the infrastructure for backpacking in South East Asia (hostels, buses and the like) made it super easy to travel.

With so many incredible places to choose from, deciding upon a travel route is a little daunting at first, but just seems to develop naturally as you move around. Nevertheless, I’ll provide some inspiration by sharing my own South East Asia 4 month itinerary (17½ weeks to be precise).

What is the Banana Pancake Trail?

Solo travel vs tours, northern thailand [2-3 weeks], laos [3-4 weeks], cambodia [3 weeks], vietnam [4 weeks], south of thailand [2 weeks], malaysia + singapore [2-3 weeks], got longer in south east asia, related questions.

Backpacking routes through the region have been dubbed the ‘ Banana Pancake Trail ‘, a reference to the abundance of banana pancakes catering to us westerners. (If you’re a fellow pancake lover reading this, don’t get your hopes up – you’ll soon be returning to the Asian cuisine.)

My itinerary is a very typical journey along the Banana Pancake Trail. I began by heading north from Bangkok, working my way through Northern Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. From Hanoi, I flew back to Bangkok, ready to begin the second leg of my journey, this time heading south until I reached Singapore.

I chose to do this itinerary solo, but there are many organised tours in Thailand , Cambodia, and Vietnam that are perfect if you’re not a confident traveller. By doing a tour, you can take advantage of a pre-made group of friends (plus you don’t have to organise anything yourself!!).

If you choose to travel solo like me, Southeast Asia is one of the easiest and most welcoming destinations to travel alone. You can check my tips for making friends while solo travelling for advice.

Average spend in Northern Thailand: £35/day

Conveniently in the centre of South East Asia, Bangkok provides a great central hub and starting point for your journey. The best part about starting your adventure here is that you’ll meet many like minded travellers doing the same thing. I continued to meet up with friends I had made in Bangkok throughout my trip and even travelled with some of them for a few weeks.

There’s plenty to keep you occupied in this busy capital city, from the temples that line the river to the infamous Koh San Road where backpackers have partied the night away for decades. Check out some of the streets surrounding Koh San Road which have a better atmosphere these days.

Where to stay in Bangkok? I can highly recommend Nap Park hostel , especially for solo travellers. Read my full list of hostel recommendations for Bangkok .

Things to do in Bangkok

• Party on Koh San Road
• Chatuchak weekend market
• Wat Pho and the Grand Palace
• Floating markets
• Day trip to the dragon temple ( Wat Sam Phran )

2. Chiang Mai

With a less traffic jams and more scenery, Chiang Mai is known as Thailand’s ‘Rose of the North’. The central area of the city is surrounded by historic walls and a moat that date back to the city’s origins. Inside the walls lie a trove of temples, massage parlours, bars and restaurants making it the backpacker and expat haven it is today.

Things to do in Chiang Mai

• Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary such as Elephantland
• Grand Canyon water park
• Visit Wat Doi Suthep
• See a Muay Thai flight
• Trekking with a hill tribe

Where to stay in Chiang Mai? I’ve compiled a list of the best hostels for your stay .

About 3 hours drive from Chiang Mai (a twisty journey to say the least), you’ll find the hippy paradise of Pai. A swathe of beautiful nature can be found in the surrounding areas, from stunning mountain backdrops, lush green paddy fields, waterfalls, caves, hot springs and more.

TIP : The region is best explored on a scooter or motorbike. If you can’t yet ride one then now is the best time to learn as it will benefit your entire trip, I’m speaking from experience. The quiet open roads around the area make it the perfect place to practice and most of the rental shops will offer a short lesson to newbies.

Pai also has a buzzing nightlife, from the party atmosphere of the towns main club, Don’t Cry, to the hippie vibes and fire shows at Paradise bar. Many backpackers visit Pai for a few days and have such a great time that they stay for weeks, it’s become known as getting ‘ stuck in the Pai hole ‘, hopefully it won’t happen to you.

Things to do in Pai:

• Pai Grand Canyon
• Bamboo Bridge
• Hot springs
• Bamboo raft through Tham Lod caves
• Paradise bar

4. Chiang Rai

Unfortunately Pai is a little out of the way, so getting anywhere else will usually require a journey back to Chiang Mai and maybe even an overnight stay.

The final destination I recommend in Northern Thailand is Chiang Rai. Whilst many backpackers will use it as a quick stop over on the journey to Laos, I recommend spending a few days to explore this laid-back little city.

It’s most popular attraction is undeniably the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) with it’s majestic design making it a hot spot for Instagram photo shoots. Look out for the pop culture references cleverly hidden in the interior artwork.

Things to do in Chiang Rai

• Night food market
• The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
• Full list of things to do in Chiang Rai

Taking the Slow Boat to Laos

From Chiang Rai, the most scenic way to get to Laos is via the 2 day slow boat. With an overnight stop in Pak Beng (an awful place but you won’t be there long), the boat cruises down the Mekong river through glorious landscapes until arriving just outside Luang Prabang.

Don’t overpay for the journey like I did, follow my slow boat tips to get a good deal.

Average spend in Laos: £21/day

5. Luang Prabang

My first stop during my three weeks in Laos was the country’s cultural capital Luang Prabang. Having spent two days together on the slow boat, I had already met dozens of other tourists that would be in the city for the coming days, making it really easy to visit as a solo traveller.

Whilst in Luang Prabang, you need to see Kuang Si Falls, a stunning waterfall with turquoise blue water and triple tiered splash pools. It’s a tourist trap for sure, but well worth seeing.

Things to do in Luang Prabang

• Kuang Si Falls
• See the monks Giving Alms
• Party at the bowling alley

6. Vang Vieng

From the capital of culture to the adventure capital , Vang Vieng. There are now two roads from Luang Praband to Vang Vieng, one that cuts right over the mountains usually taking 3-4 hours in a minibus (this is the one I took and it’s a guaranteed bumpy ride) or the longer route which is usually favoured by larger buses but will take a few hours longer.

Despite being a small town situated amongst jagged limestone cliffs and beautiful rolling green fields, Vang Vieng still has a good nightlife with backpackers drawn to the open sale of marijuana, magic mushrooms and more at the towns bars. Originally famous for it’s crazy river tubing parties, this is now highly regulated but you can still enjoy the daily tubing trip along with other, more adrenaline-fuelled, activities.

Things to do in Vang Vieng:

• River tubing
• Blue Lagoons and caves
• Kayaking, Zipling or Paramotoring (paragliding with an engine)
• Cheapest hot air balloon ride in the world

7. Vientiane

From the adventure capital to the country’s official capital city, Vientiane. With an unusually relaxed pace of life for a capital city, you’ll notice the distinct remnants from French colonization across the city, including French road names, an abundance of French bakeries and the large ‘Patuxai’ monument which is best described as a ‘mini Arc de triomphe’.

Things to do in Vientiane:

• Vientiane night market
• Buddha Park
• Pha That Luang – Laos’ sacred stupa
• COPE visitor centre

8. Pakse and the Bolaven Plateau

From Vientiane, many backpackers on the Banana Pancake Trail will head up to Hanoi, but you’d be foolish to miss out on the beauty of southern Laos. In my opinion, the south was even better than the north.

Travelling from Vientiane to Pakse requires an overnight bus; an experience in itself. If you’re lucky you won’t have to share your bed!

The small city of Pakse is a relatively quiet affair with little going on. But, rent a scooter and you can see some of the best nature on this South East Asia route, especially if you head out to the Champassak highlands along the Bolaven Plateau motorbike loop.

Things to do in Pakse

• Bolaven Plateau Motorbike Loop
• Wat Phou – Temple ruins built in the same style to those at Angkor Wat

At the southern border of Laos lies Si Phan Don, with a literal translation of 4000 islands. Here the Mekong divulges in to many smaller waterways creating an array of islands. Most are very tiny, but three are inhabited, the most popular one being Don Det where you’ll find restaurants and guesthouses in plentiful supply.

You’ll be able to purchase a combination ticket from Pakse to Don Det, including the bus and a return boat journey across to Don Det. There are no ATMs on Don Det so make sure you stock up on cash at the ATM’s you’ll find before getting on the boat.

The best part of this island is watching the sun set across the Mekong from one of the sun set bars.

Things to do in Don Det

• Island tour with waterfall and kayaking
• Watch the sun setting from the sun set bars

Crossing the Laos-Cambodia border

Watch out for corruption at this border. You can expect to pay a few extra dollars for a ‘stamping charge’ which is pretty much non-negotiable. But, I also noticed someone selling Cambodian visas at the Laos border for an inflated price which many tourists were falling for.

Remember – You’ll stamp out of Laos at the Laos exit border, then walk across to the Cambodian entry border to get your visa and stamps for Cambodia. Don’t get your Cambodian visa at the Laos border.

Also, there are no ATMs here so ensure you have enough dollars for the visa and ‘stamping stamp’ before getting on the bus.

Average spend in Cambodia : £37/day

10. Siem Reap

After the relaxed evenings in Laos, you’ll definitely be ready for the upbeat atmosphere in Siem Reap where it’s ‘Pub Street’ is reminiscent of Bangkok’s Koh San Road. With $0.50 draft beer and clubs open until early hours, you’ll have some unforgettable nights here.

Of course, you’ll need to find time to visit Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s most famous landmark. A 1 day pass should be fine for most people wanting to get a glimpse at the temple ruins but for temple-nerds, a 3 day pass will allow you to explore a wider variety of Temples within the vast complex.

Things to do in Siem Reap:

• Floating Village

TIP: Don’t visit Sihanoukeville – Some older South East Asia itineraries will advise a visit to Sihanoukeville on the way to Koh Rong, but this city is no longer the glorious destination it once was. Enormous Chinese investment has seen hundreds of ugly skyscrapers clogging the skyline, most only catering to package holiday tourists. There are few backpacker hostels, the beaches are flooded with litter and crime is high, it has gained the deserving nickname ‘shits-ville’ amongst travellers. I recommend heading straight for Koh Rong.

11. Koh Rong

By this point I’d spend over 6 weeks travelling in South East Asia and still hadn’t seen a real beach, luckily this is where the islands at the south of Cambodia did not disappoint. With a mix of beautiful white beaches and dense jungle terrain, your time on the island of Koh Rong can’t go wrong. Look out for some epic weekly beach parties at some of the island’s bars.

Things to do on Koh Rong:

• Relax on 4K beach
• Jungle trek to long beach
• Snorkelling boat trip
• Experience the beach parties

12. Koh Rong Samloem

Just a short ferry journey away, the paradise island of Koh Rong Samloem is less developed and a little more easy-going than it’s sister island. There are plenty of resorts scattered around, including a secluded experience at Mad Monkey, but I would recommend staying near the main serendipity pier for easy access to everything you need.

Things to do on Koh Rong Samloem

• Watch the sun set at Lazy beach
• See the luminous plankton
• Full moon party at Jungle Bar

Cambodia has a huge variety of destinations and the sleepy riverside town of Kampot is an altogether different experience. Once the country’s many fishing port, today Kampot is better known for it’s pepper. Flouted by locals as the ‘best pepper in the world’, Kampot pepper was Cambodia’s first ever product to receive Protected Geographical Indication in 2016.

Things to do in Kampot

• Visit a pepper plantation
• Day trip to Kep
• Bokor National Park

14. Phnom Penh

Before leaving Cambodia, you’ll want to make a quick stop in the country’s capital, Phnom Penh. I’d recommend spending a little less time here than the previous destinations, but visiting the Killing Fields and S-21 museum is something you must-do whlst in Cambodia.

On a combined visit to the Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre (Killing Fields) and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21), you’ll learn about Cambodia’s dark and harrowing recent history as it lived through a genocide that wiped out a quarter of the population.

I found it to be quite emotional as we heard the stories of survivors on the audio tour but really interesting and hugely worthwhile to anyone who has even the slightest interest in Cambodian history.

Things to do in Phnom Penh

• Killing Fields and S-21 museum
• Speakeasy and rooftop bars
• Royal Palace

Crossing the Cambodia-Vietnam border

Vietnam is the only country on my South East Asia itinerary that you’ll need to apply for an e-visa in advance of arriving in the country . I recommend doing this about 5 working days before you plan to enter the country to allow enough time to receive it. You’ll be required to give a specific entry date which I recommend you stick to.

Average spend in Vietnam: £30/day

15. Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)

Formerly known as Saigon , the city was renamed after Ho Chi Minh, the former politician who lead Northern Vietnam forces to success during the Vietnam war. Your visit to HCMC will be brimming in history as many of the attractions are dedicated to telling the story of the Vietnamese war.

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

• Cu Chi Tunnels
• War Remnants Museum
• Visit the Mekong Delta
• Ben Thanh street food market

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City? Check out this guide to my favourite hostels

Over 1,500m above sea level, Dalat provides a much needed break from the heat found in the rest of Vietnam. But it’s not just the temperate climate that attracts visitors to this hillside resort, Dalat has stunning waterfalls, beautiful lakes and a city that is oddly charming.

Things to do in Dalat

• The Crazy House
• Alpine Roller Coaster

Here are my best hostel recommendations in Dalat

From Dalat, jump aboard one of Vietnam’s sleeper buses and head north to Hoi An. The sleeper buses in Vietnam are much nicer than neighbouring countries and provided you don’t sit at the back, you’ll be treated to your own individual reclining seat.

The ancient town of Hoi An will capture your heart. With the entire city centre designated a UNESCO world heritage site , it’s traditional architecture and local crafts have been well preserved. It’s become known for it’s lanterns which light up the city’s streets and rivers by night making it one of the most photogenic destinations in Vietnam.

Things to do in Hoi An

• Explore the beautiful old town
• Take a lantern crafting workshop
• Cycle through Tra Que Vegetable village
• An Bang Beach

Hoi An to Hue via the Hai Van Pass

The journey from Hoi An to Hue featured on top gear where the Hai Van Pass was described as ‘o ne of the best coastal roads in the world ‘. I was really keen to make this journey for myself so rented a scooter from a rental shop in Hoi An that allows drop off in Hue, they even transported my backpack for me. The journey took a full day, with many other beautiful landmarks to stop off along the way, I can high recommend doing it.

Hue’s position in the very centre of Vietnam has seen it play a crucial role as capital of the Đàng Trong Kingdom and of the Nguyen Dynasty. It’s important historical role can be observed by the large citadel found in the city, with huge stone walls and a vast surrounding moat. The impressive tombs of former emperors can also be visited, each designed by the emperors’ themselves before they died.

Things to do in Hue

• See the imperial city
• Visit the abandoned water park
• Royal tombs

19. Phong Nha National Park

Phong Nha is an exquisite region that has been blessed with an incredible networks of caves, including the largest cave in the world . However, a visit to this record breaking attraction comes with a 2 year waiting list and a USD $3,000 price tag. Luckily, for us backpackers, Phong Nha also has some great budget caving options , including the Dark cave, Paradise cave and Phong Nha cave.

A trip to Phong Nha would not be complete without a visit to The Duck Stop . Here, you can play with over 100 friendly ducks that will follow you around and give you a ‘foot massage’ with their beak, this is the most I laughed during my trip.

Things to do in Phong Nha

• Kayaking and mud bath at the Dark Cave
• The Duck Stop
• Boat trip through Phong Nha Cave

20. Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is often called ‘ Ha Long Bay on land’ due to the protruding limestone monoliths scattered across the landscape akin to those in Ha Long. One of my highlights of Vietnam was the Trang An boat tour where we took a small rowing boat around these beautiful cliffs and caves.

Things to do in Ninh Binh

• Trang An or Tam Coc boat trip
• Hang Mua caves view point

21. Cat Ba Island

Many budget backpackers, including myself, now decided to skip Ha Long Bay which has become riddled with package tourists. Instead, I headed for neighbouring Lan Ha Bay which is part of the same geographical formations as Ha Long Bay but much more affordable.

Cat Ba Island is the launching destination for Lan Ha Bay cruises but also has a number of other attractions including a vast national park to discover..

Things to do on Cat Ba Island

• Lan Ha Bay cruise
• Hiking in Cat Ba national park
• Sunrise at Canon Fort

With over 1,000 years of history, Hanoi is bursting with culture from every corner. Navigating through the city and weaving between the chaotic traffic presents a challenge in itself.

Originally, there were 36 streets, each dedicated to a certain trade. Some of these streets have remained true to this, it’s baffling to walk down a street where every single shop sells the exact same items. Whilst exploring the city I came across a street for shoes, a street for kitchenware, a street for hand tools, etc.

No visit to Hanoi is complete without a visit to the legendary train street. Here, an array of quirky cafes line the edges of a train track. Twice a day they must rush around to bring their tables and chairs inside as they prepare for the train to speed past. It can become overcrowded when the trains are due to pass so visit earlier on to properly enjoy it.

Things to do in Hanoi

• Train street
• Explore the old quarter
• The Note Cafe
• Friday + Saturday night street market

Also read: The best hostels in Hanoi for solo travellers

Getting from Hanoi to Southern Thailand

From the second part of my South East Asia trip, I’d be heading down the southern peninsular, starting with the south of Thailand . Whilst you could fly straight from Hanoi to the south of Thailand, it works out cheapest to fly to Bangkok and take a sleeper bus to the south.

Average spend in South of Thailand: £42/day

23. Koh Tao

By now you’ll likely be over half way through your 4 months journey and ready for a little more beach action. The first stop in the South of Thailand is Koh Tao. Literally meaning ‘turtle island’, Koh Tao was originally an island for political prisoners.

Nowadays, the island is renowned for diving, it’s the perfect spot for beginners with more diving qualifications awarded here than anywhere else in the world. But the island also caters to more experienced divers with Sail Rock considered one of the best dive sites in the gulf of Thailand. Those looking for a more intimate diving experience may want to consider a Thai liveaboard , these usually depart from Khao Lak and head out in to the Andaman Sea for up to 10 days.

If diving isn’t your thing, it’s also a popular spot for snorkelling where you could end up swimming with baby sharks or turtles just off the shore.

Things to do on Koh Tao

• Get a diving qualification
• John Siwan View Point

24. Koh Samui

Thailand’s second largest island has a raft of activities to keep you occupied in between some good beach time. From a coffee shop suspended up in the jungle to the delicious street food and boxing at Lamai saturday night market.

Tourists also flock in their droves to see Hin Ta and Hin Yai, rocks that are famed for their likeness to male and female genitals. It tickled me to watch some of the photo shoots that were taking place at these rocks.

Things to do on Koh Samui

• Tree Bridge Coffee
• Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks

TIP: Although I visited Phuket on my trip, I wouldn’t recommend it at all. Not only was it crazy expensive but also my least favourite place. There were some nice viewpoints and I met some awesome people, but it generally feels quite tacky and would be better suited for stag/hen parties (aka bachelor parties for my friends across the pond) rather than backpacking.

25. Koh Phi Phi

I’ll warn you now, the little island of Koh Phi Phi will steal your heart. From the extraordinary views straight from a post card, to the vibrant nightlife unlike anything else I’d experience during my 4 months in South East Asia.

Although the infamous Maya Bay, made famous by the movie ‘The Beach’, is closed to tourists, there’s an abundance of other remarkable beaches to explore by foot or by boat. In the evening, head to Reggae bar where amateur tourists are encouraged to try their hand at Muay Thai in return for a bucket of cocktail for their sportsmanship – get in the ring if you dare.

Things to do on Koh Phi Phi

• Take a snorkelling day tour
• Sunset at the viewpoint
• Muay Thai at Reggae bar

Average spend in Malaysia: £30/day and Singapore: £33/day

Note: I could probably have spent less but after being on the road for 3+months I ended up splashing out on a sim card in Malaysia , more upmarket hostels and eating in a few nicer restaurants, even still I thought it was cheap prices.

The narrow streets of Penang’s capital, George town , is a destination famed for it’s multiculturalism. Here, Chinese, Indian and Malay influences come together to form an interesting array of architecture, art and cuisine unlike anywhere else in the region.

Look out for the creative Banksy-style murals found on streets throughout the city, some incorporating objects such as bicycles or swings making the art come to life.

Things to do in Penang:

• Street art tour
• Penang Hill
• Batu Ferringhi beach and night market

27. Cameron Highlands

If you love the great outdoors then a few days in the Cameron Highlands will be right up your street. The beautiful Cameron Highlands is a resort made up of a few small towns in the hills of Pahang district, the centre being Tanah Rata.

From here you can take one of the 13 hiking routes of varying difficulties or visit the numerous tea plantations that flourish under the warm climate with heavy rainfall.

Things to do in the Cameron Highlands

• Tea plantations
• Pick-your-own strawberry farms
• Time tunnel museum

28. Kuala Lumpur

In Kuala Lumpur, an eclectic mix of culture, architecture and cuisine fuse together to form the country’s capital city. Whilst you won’t want to spend too much time here, a visit to the capital with give you an insight in to the diversity of Malaysia. The city is in a seemingly endless battle to keep up with the rapid development of neighbouring Singapore which gained independence from Malaysia just 50 years ago.

Things to do in Kuala Lumpur

• See the Petronas towers
• Cocktails on a helipad at Heli-bar
• KL Forest Eco Park – small jungle within the city

29. Malacca

Once the capital of the Malay kingdom and an important trading port, Malacca has been through many regime changes including Portuguese, Dutch and subsequently British colonial rule which saw the demise of Malacca’s influence.

Things to do in Melacca

• Visit Jonker Street weekend market
• Sunset at the floating mosque
• St Paul’s Church ruins

30. Singapore

The final stop on my epic 4 month South East Asia itinerary is Singapore. This modern city at the southernmost point of continental Asia is a massive contrast to some of the other destinations in the region. Clean, green and full of incredible architecture, Singapore would almost blend in better in the west than it does in South East Asia.

Although generally more expensive than neighbouring countries, if you follow my Singapore on a budget recommendations it’s still possible to have a good time at an affordable price. I’d recommend spending 3-4 nights here to fully appreciate it.

Things to do in Singapore

• Marina Bay Sands Light Show
• Gardens by the Bay
• Eat at one of the Hawker Centres

If you move around quicker than me or have longer than 4 months in South East Asia, then you may want to consider these additional destinations:

Phillipines

Unlike the other destinations which can all be reached via land, you’ll need to fly to the Philippines which lies East of Vietnam, but there are plenty of cheap flights from most airports in the region.

Whilst you’ll probably begin your adventure in the capital of Manilla, the country is made up of thousands of islands to explore. Palawan and Cebu are some of the most popular spots to visit in the Philipines where you’ll also find some of the best diving in the world.

Bali, Indonesia

One of the most popular destinations in SE Asia is Bali which is known for its backpacker and digital nomad scene. An interesting fact about Bali is that many people wrongly assume Bali is a separate country whereas it’s actually the name of four islands (the main island of Bali plus 3 smaller islands) in Indonesia.

It’s full of temples, caves, museums, and waterfalls, with the top attraction being the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel South East Asia for 4 Months?

During my 4 months backpacking in South East Asia, I averaged £32 per day (equivalent to USD $40 or €36) whilst living reasonably well. I stayed in mid-range hostels, ate street food or in average priced restaurants, didn’t hold back on the touristy stuff and got wasted alot experienced the nightlife culture.

My spending varied significantly between countries, from an average of £21 per day in Laos up to £42 per day in the south of Thailand, I’ve included my average spend for each country below which doesn’t include inbound/outbound flights, travel insurance or visas.

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Destinations // Long Term Travel

Southeast Asia Travel Itinerary: 9 Options For a 3-4 Week Trip

• Date Updated: January 11, 2024
• By: Alicia Walter

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Discover the perfect Southeast Asia travel itinerary for you with a unique blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences.

If you’re planning a trip to this enchanting region, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we will provide you with nine exciting options for exploring Southeast Asia, each offering a unique blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences.

As avid travelers, we have visited 8 out of the 11 countries in Southeast Asia. We can’t get enough of this incredible destination. The friendly locals, mouthwatering cuisine, affordable costs, and breathtaking scenery keep drawing us back year after year.

We’ll cover an ideal Southeast Asia travel itinerary, transportation in Southeast Asia, and more!

This post is all about finding the best Southeast Asia Travel Itinerary for your trip!

Don’t forget to get travel insurance for every trip to cover medical emergencies, cancellations, and even lost luggage! Check out SafetyWing for our go-to travel insurance !

Transportation in Southeast Asia

When traveling through Southeast Asia, you’ll find a wide range of transportation options to navigate this diverse region. From budget-friendly choices to more luxurious modes of travel, each form of transportation offers its own unique experience. Here are some popular modes of transportation in Southeast Asia:

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Flights are a convenient option for covering long distances between countries or major cities in Southeast Asia. Budget airlines such as AirAsia and Jetstar offer affordable fares, but be sure to check baggage restrictions and additional fees. You can use booking in advance to help secure better deals, and it’s best to compare prices across different airlines and travel search engines. We personally use Google Flights to search for our flights and then book directly through the airline for the best deals and customer service. However, beware, there is absolutely no customer service through AirAsia. They are so cheap for a reason.

Train travel in Southeast Asia can be a scenic and enjoyable way to explore the region. Countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, and Vietnam have well-established train networks. Overnight sleeper trains are available on certain routes, providing a comfortable and cost-effective option for longer journeys. It’s recommended to book train tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure preferred seats or sleeping berths.

• Get all the best prices and routes in Southeast Asia with 12Go!

Buses or smaller shuttle vans are a popular and affordable mode of transportation for both short and long distances in Southeast Asia. Local buses are inexpensive and often the primary means of transport within cities and towns. Long-distance buses, such as VIP or express buses, provide more comfort and amenities for intercity travel. It’s best for you to research reputable bus companies and book tickets in advance, especially for popular routes.

• Find a Shuttle Transfer for your Route!

Tuk-tuks, three-wheeled motorized vehicles, are a common mode of transportation in countries like Thailand and Cambodia. Negotiating fares is customary, so it’s advisable to agree on a price before starting the journey. While tuk-tuks can be a convenient way to explore cities and shorter distances, it’s important to ensure your safety by choosing licensed and reputable drivers.

With its countless islands and coastal destinations, ferries are essential for traveling between islands in Southeast Asia. Popular ferry routes include those between Bali and the Gili Islands in Indonesia or between the islands in the Philippines. Ferry schedules and availability can vary, so it’s recommended to check and book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Find a Ferry Route for your Southeast Asia Itinerary!

For convenient and reliable ride-share options in Southeast Asia, the main app to use is Grab. Grab operates in several countries in the region, including Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and more. With Grab, you can easily book rides, whether you’re traveling within a city or between different destinations. Just download the Grab app , set up an account, and enjoy the convenience of booking rides with a trusted service provider.

Motorbike Rental

Renting motorbikes in Southeast Asia is a popular and affordable option for exploring the region. It provides travelers with the freedom to navigate through cities, towns, and scenic landscapes at their own pace. However, it is important to have the necessary skills and documents, such as an international driver’s permit with a motorcycle license, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the roads.

11 Important Tips for Renting a Scooter in Thailand

The best way to explore Thailand is by motor scooter. We’re sharing all the top tips for renting a scooter in Thailand! Thailand is a beautiful country with a lot of tourist

Renting cars in Southeast Asia can be a convenient option for exploring the region, but it comes with its challenges. Driving on the opposite side of the road and navigating unfamiliar traffic laws and customs can be daunting for many travelers. It’s important to familiarize yourself with local driving regulations and consider your comfort level before deciding to rent a car in Southeast Asia.

• Find the best deals on your car rental!

Southeast Asia Travel Itinerary:

1. popular highlights.

• Destinations: Bangkok, Thailand → Siem Reap, Cambodia → Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam → Singapore → Bali, Indonesia
• Countries: 5

This Popular Highlights route through Southeast Asia will get you to some of the most popular and memorable stops in this area. You’ll have the opportunity to explore five diverse countries, each offering its own unique experiences and attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or an adventure seeker, this popular highlights itinerary will allow you to discover the best of Southeast Asia’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Start your Southeast Asia adventure in Bangkok, Thailand, where you can explore vibrant markets, visit stunning temples, and indulge in delicious street food . From Bangkok, head to Siem Reap, Cambodia, to witness the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat complex, known for its ancient temples and intricate carvings. You can continue your journey to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and immerse yourself in its fascinating history, vibrant culture, and bustling markets.

Next, make your way to the modern city-state of Singapore, where you can experience a blend of cultures, enjoy world-class dining, and explore iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands . Conclude your popular highlights itinerary in Bali, Indonesia, a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, and vibrant arts scene.

Top Activities in Southeast Asia

2. hidden gems.

• Destinations: Chiang Mai, Thailand → Luang Prabang, Laos → Vang Vieng, Laos → Hoi An, Vietnam → Kampot, Cambodia → Georgetown, Malaysia → East Java, Indonesia
• Countries: 6

The Hidden Gems of Southeast Asia travel itinerary takes you on a journey through some of the lesser-known but equally enchanting destinations in the region. There is so much to see throughout the region, so you can easily get off the beaten path. These are enough off the beaten path that most people won’t have heard of, but there is still a general tourism industry built up for accommodations and tours.  

Begin your adventure in Chiang Mai, Thailand, where you can immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage and explore its vibrant night markets. Continue to Luang Prabang, Laos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning temples and serene natural beauty. From there, make your way to Vang Vieng, Laos, where you can go tubing along the Nam Song River and marvel at the limestone karst landscapes.

Explore the charming town of Hoi An, Vietnam, famed for its well-preserved ancient buildings and lantern-lit streets. Journey to Kampot, Cambodia , and enjoy its laid-back riverside atmosphere and picturesque countryside. Discover the colonial charm of Georgetown, Malaysia, with its vibrant street art and diverse culinary scene. Finally, venture to East Java, Indonesia, where you can witness the mesmerizing beauty of Mount Bromo and explore the stunning landscapes of the Ijen Crater. 

Purchase and download your e-sim  before you even land in a new country.  Check out Airalo for all your travel data needs  starting at just $4.50. 

3. Island Hopping

• Destinations: Coron, Philippines → El Nido, Philippines → Cebu, Philippines → Phuket, Thailand → Phi Phi Islands, Thailand → Bali, Indonesia → Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia
• Countries: 3

When you think of a tropical (and affordable) vacation, Southeast Asia is the place for you. The Island Hopping itinerary takes you on a breathtaking journey through some of the most stunning islands in Southeast Asia. 

Begin your adventure in Coron, Philippines , where you can explore crystal-clear lagoons and vibrant coral reefs. Continue to El Nido, Philippines, known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons. From there, head to Cebu, Philippines, and indulge in its pristine white sand beaches and world-class diving spots.

Next, travel to Phuket, Thailand, and immerse yourself in its vibrant nightlife and picturesque beaches. Explore the famous Phi Phi Islands , Thailand, with their turquoise waters and stunning rock formations. 

No island hopping trip is complete without Bali, Indonesia, a tropical paradise offering a blend of lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and stunning sunsets. Finish your itinerary with one last gorgeous island, Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia, where you can relax on pristine beaches, go snorkeling or diving, and witness breathtaking coastal views. 

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4. City Lovers

• Destinations: Bangkok, Thailand → Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia → Singapore → Jakarta, Indonesia → Manila, Philippines → Hanoi, Vietnam

If you’re a city lover and want to experience the vibrant energy of Southeast Asia’s urban hubs, the City Lovers is the perfect Southeast Asia travel itinerary for you. This itinerary will hit all the major cities in Southeast Asia, giving you rooftop views, night markets, shopping, and the steady buzz of city life.

Start your journey in Bangkok, Thailand, where you can immerse yourself in the bustling markets, visit stunning temples, and indulge in delicious street food. From there, head to Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia, and explore its modern skyscrapers, diverse culinary scene, and vibrant street markets. 

Continue your city adventure in Singapore, where you can experience a fusion of cultures, enjoy world-class dining, and explore iconic landmarks like Gardens By the Bay . Next, venture to Jakarta, Indonesia, and discover its vibrant nightlife, historical sites, and vibrant arts scene. Fly to Manila, Philippines, and explore its lively markets, colonial architecture, and cultural attractions. 

Finally, end your city exploration in Hanoi, Vietnam, and immerse yourself in its rich history, vibrant street life, and mouthwatering cuisine. 

5. All the countries

• Destinations: Bangkok, Thailand → Old Bagan, Myanmar → Luang Prabang, Laos → Hanoi, Vietnam → Siem Reap, Cambodia → El Nido, Philippines → Brunei → Kuala Lumpur, Malysia → Singapore → Bali, Indonesia → Timor-Leste
• Countries: 11

The “All the Countries” itinerary takes you on an epic journey through Southeast Asia, exploring the diverse cultures and natural wonders of eleven countries. 

Begin your adventure in Bangkok, Thailand, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant street markets and visit stunning temples. Travel to Old Bagan, Myanmar, and witness the awe-inspiring ancient temples that dot the landscape. Continue your journey to Luang Prabang, Laos, for its serene beauty and stunning temples. From there, head to Hanoi, Vietnam, and experience the bustling streets, delicious street food, and rich history. 

Explore the magnificent Angkor Wat complex in Siem Reap, Cambodia, and marvel at its intricate carvings and ancient ruins. Discover the pristine beauty of El Nido, Philippines , with its crystal-clear waters and stunning limestone cliffs. 

Visit the small nation of Brunei and explore its rich cultural heritage and beautiful mosques. Journey to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and experience the vibrant mix of modern skyscrapers and charming historic sites. Explore the multicultural city-state of Singapore and be captivated by its blend of cultures and world-class attractions. 

End your trip in Bali, Indonesia , where you can unwind on stunning beaches, explore lush rice terraces, and immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene. 

>> Dive into more of our destination guides, itineraries, and cost breakdowns! 

6. Mixing Pot

• Destinations: Singapore → El Nido, Philippines → Hoi An, Vietnam → Vang Vieng, Laos → Chiang Mai, Thailand → Siem Reap, Cambodia

The Mixing Pot itinerary takes you on a captivating journey through six diverse countries in Southeast Asia. Begin your adventure in the modern city-state of Singapore, where you can experience a fusion of cultures, indulge in world-class cuisine, and explore iconic landmarks. From there, travel to El Nido, Philippines, and be mesmerized by its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs. 

Continue your exploration in Hoi An, Vietnam , a town renowned for its well-preserved ancient buildings and vibrant lantern-lit streets. Immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere of Vang Vieng, Laos, where you can go tubing along the Nam Song River and marvel at the breathtaking limestone karst landscapes. 

Discover the rich cultural heritage and vibrant street markets of Chiang Mai, Thailand , before concluding your journey in Siem Reap, Cambodia, where the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat complex awaits with its intricate carvings and ancient ruins. 

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7. Explore Borneo

• Destinations: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia → Mt. Kinabalu → Danum Valley, Malaysia → Brunei → Kuching, Malaysia → Balikapan, Indonesia

Explore Borneo, a captivating destination that promises adventure and natural beauty at every turn. 

Begin your journey in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere and explore the bustling markets.  Embark on a thrilling climb up Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia, and be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Dive into the depths of Danum Valley, Malaysia, and immerse yourself in the pristine rainforests teeming with wildlife . 

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Brunei as you explore its majestic mosques and historic sites. This will add a unique country to your list that not many have been to. 

Make your way to Kuching, Malaysia, and experience the charm of this riverside city, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant food scene. Conclude your Borneo adventure in Balikpapan, Indonesia, where you can relax on picturesque beaches and explore the diverse marine life. 

8. North Route

• Destinations: Hanoi, Vietnam → Luang Prabang, Laos → Vang Vieng, Laos → Bangkok, Thailand → Siem Reap, Cambodia → Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Countries: 4

The North Route itinerary takes you on a captivating journey through four countries in Southeast Asia, offering a perfect blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty. 

Begin your adventure in Hanoi, Vietnam, where you can immerse yourself in the bustling streets, sample delicious street food, and explore the city’s rich history. From there, travel to Luang Prabang, Laos, for its serene natural beauty and incredible temples. Experience the laid-back atmosphere of Vang Vieng, Laos , where you can go tubing along the Nam Song River and admire the stunning limestone karst landscapes.

Continue your journey to Bangkok, Thailand, and indulge in the city’s vibrant street markets, visit awe-inspiring temples, and savor the mouthwatering cuisine. Discover the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat complex in Siem Reap, Cambodia, and marvel at its intricate carvings and ancient ruins. To end, the North Route adventure stops in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, where you can delve into the city’s fascinating history , explore bustling markets, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. 

9. South Route

• Destinations: Singapore → Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia → Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia → Jakarta, Indonesia → Bali, Indonesia → Timor-Leste

The South Route itinerary takes you on an incredible journey through four captivating countries in Southeast Asia. Flying between stops will be your best bet since there are so many islands in the south. 

Begin your adventure in the modern city-state of Singapore , where you can immerse yourself in a melting pot of cultures, indulge in diverse culinary delights, and explore iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands. From there, travel to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and be captivated by its impressive skyscrapers, vibrant street markets, and rich cultural heritage. Continue your exploration in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, where you can soak in the beauty of pristine beaches, embark on thrilling jungle treks, and discover the rich marine life in its crystal-clear waters.

Next, venture to Jakarta, Indonesia , and experience the dynamic energy of this bustling metropolis, with its vibrant street scenes, historical sites, and vibrant arts scene. Continue your journey to Bali, a paradise known for its stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, and vibrant arts and culture. Finally, conclude your South Route itinerary in Timor-Leste, a lesser-known gem offering breathtaking landscapes, secluded beaches, and a fascinating blend of Portuguese and Indonesian influences.

This post was all about picking the perfect Southeast Asia travel itinerary for your 3-4 week trip! Happy Travels!

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 28, 2024

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur , with its glorious temples and incredible street food scene (this is the best place for Indian food outside of India) is not to be missed. The Petronas Twin Towers are a must-see, and if you don’t mind heights, you should walk across the bridge connecting the two. They stand an awesome 1,500 feet (451 meters) tall! One of my favorite day trips here in KL was to the karst landform 400 million-year-old Batu Caves and temples that house Hindu statues and paintings. For something more down to earth, the Butterfly Park in the Perdana Botanical Garden is the serene home to an incredible 5,000 butterflies, plants, ferns, and flowers and is a beautiful retreat from the bustle of the city.

Other Things to See and Do in Southeast Asia

1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.

For more information on specific cities in Southeast Asia, check out these guides:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

For more places to stay, check out our countries guides to each country: Thailand , Laos , Vietnam , Singapore , Malaysia , Cambodia , and Indonesia .

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel Dorms – $6-12 USD per night (double that in Singapore)
• Hostel private rooms – $15-30 USD per night (triple in Singapore)
• Budget hotels – $15-35 USD per night ($100 USD in Singapore)
• Airbnb private rooms – $15-30 USD per night (more in the larger/popular cities)
• Airbnb apartments – $40-80 USD per night (again, more in the larger/popular cities)
• Campsite – Camping is the same price as hostels.
• Street food – $2-5 USD
• Casual restaurants – $3-6 USD
• Western meals – $5-10 USD
• Sit-down restaurants – $10-20 USD
• Fast food (think McDonald’s) – $5 USD
• Beer – $1-3 USD
• Glass of wine – $3-6 USD
• Cappuccino/latte- $2-3 USD
• Bottled water – $1 USD
• Groceries for a week – It’s cheaper to eat out in this region, so skip the groceries.

Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – $50 usd per day.

This gets you hostel dorms, street food, buses to get around, a few drinks, and mostly free (or cheap) activities like temple visits and enjoying the beach.

If you splurge on nicer meals or drink more, you’ll want $60 USD per day.

Midrange – $100 USD Per Day

This budget gets you private hotel rooms or bungalows, nicer meals out (including more Western meals), more drinks, some taxis, and generally more wiggle room. You can live pretty large on this amount!

Upscale – $200 USD Per Day

On this budget you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want!

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

How to Get Around in Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. Its’ my go-to choice. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Bus costs vary between $5-8 USD for a five-to six-hour journey. Overnight buses cost $10-15 USD, depending on distance.

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $20-27 USD for a sleeper seat. The Bangkok to Vientiane (Laos) train takes 11-13 hours and costs around $30 USD.

In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $40 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. For a soft sleeper bed with air conditioning, expect to pay around $44 USD for the journey from Hanoi to Hue. For the same bed on the train from HCMC to Nha Trang, expect to pay around $30 USD.

In Cambodia, there is a new train from Phnom Penh to Battenberg but it’s not that comfortable. There is also a train from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville. Tickets cost $5-7 USD, though departures are not very common so you’ll need to plan ahead. The journey takes about six hours.

In Indonesia, the cities of Java are well linked by train. Economy class from Jakarta to Surabaya takes 11 hours and costs about $42 USD, while an 8-hour executive class trip costs $96 USD.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Generally speaking, fares are around to $30 USD per one-way trip. Last-minute fares can cost more than $100 USD.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

This post discusses getting around Southeast Asia in-depth if you want more information.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

How to Get Around Southeast Asia on the Cheap

Southeast Asia Itineraries: From 2 Weeks to 3 Months

9 Things to Do in Thailand

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

The 6 Best Hostels in Hanoi

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How to Plan a Trip to Southeast Asia 2024 (First-Timers' Guide)

Longing for an exotic couple's/family vacation? A 10–30-day trip to Southeast Asia will fulfill your dreams for a tropical travel experience with its sunny beaches, verdant jungles, adorable elephants, charming old towns, dynamic metropolises, diverse tasty foods, traditional floating markets, and mysterious temple complexes.

Southeast Asia consists of 11 countries. They're conveniently connected to each other by 1–3-hour flights. More than 95% of couples and families choose to visit 2–3 SE Asian countries in one trip.

The five most popular destinations for the SE Asia first-timer are Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Singapore, and Indonesia (mainly Bali). For a deeper cultural exploration and a longer trip, Myanmar and Laos come onto the list most frequently.

Spend 5–10 minutes on the following 6 steps to get an instant overview of how to plan a worry-free trip to Southeast Asia.

• 1. Where to Go
• 2. How Many Days to Stay
• 3. The Best Times to Travel

4. Plan Your Budget

5. transportation to/within southeast asia.

• 6. Visa Requirements

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

1. Choose Where to Go

Among all our couples' and family clients' choices, the best-selling itineraries cover the Southeast Asia travel hubs of Thailand (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket / Koh Samui), Vietnam (Halong Bay, Hanoi, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh) and Cambodia (Angkor Wat). >> How to Plan a 3-Week Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour

Bali in Indonesia, known locally as 'the Island of the Gods', is one of the best choices if you love the thought of sun-soaked beaches, volcano trekking, and scenic countryside with terraced rice fields.

Singapore , a clean and modern city, is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia. It is favored by families due to its arts, fashion, food, culture, and big-name events.

Luang Prabang in Laos and Bagan in Myanmar are favored choices for couples who love charming romantic old towns, fascinatingly-designed temples, and Buddhist culture.

1) Thailand: Temples, Elephants, Beaches

Thailand is the travel hub of Southeast Asia. Within its borders are sunny beaches, ornate temples, and lush national parks and jungles. There is so much to do in Thailand, whether you want to explore and have fun with kids, or enjoy romantic moments with your significant other.

Whether traveling as a family or couple, meeting elephants in a jungle, taking a Thai cooking class , and exploring Bangkok's classic temples, amazing food, and floating markets are all must-dos.

For your choice of islands, Koh Samui is more recommended for couples due to its quiet and romantic vibe. While Phuket is more suitable for families with kids, as it's known for its abundant water sports and activities.

Yi Peng Festival in Chiang Mai is definitely not to be missed, where you can see the romantic scene of countless flying lanterns released into the sky.

For a special experience, you could spend an amazing evening with your spouse/partner (and kids) in Kanchanaburi's floating house or a tree house in Khao Sok National Park.

2) Vietnam: Outdoor Adventures, Scenic Wonders, Countryside Relaxation

Hanoi and Hoi An represent traditional Vietnam, Halong Bay represents scenic Vietnam, while Ho Chi Minh epitomizes modern Vietnam with many great museums.

Hanoi is a must because of the incredible, buzzing Old Quarter, displaying history at every turn.

A luxury Halong Bay cruise is recommended for both couples and families. Spend 1–2 nights boating around the numerous islands and admiring the karst formations rising from the sea.

There are many exciting activities in Halong Bay, like kayaking, swimming, and cycling. If your plan to celebrate a big event, we can help arrange a more private cruise only for you as a couple or just your family members.

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's most fashionable city, known for its amazing food, skyscrapers, and sleepless bars. It is also a must-visit for everyone with an interest in history due to its many museums!

After 2–3 hours' driving from Ho Chi Minh, you can transit from city's dynamism to the primitive simplicity of the Mekong Delta. Get to see how the local Vietnamese keep their traditional lifestyle: trading in the floating markets , making sugar in a family workshop , living in a boat house , etc.

Further reading:  Itinerary options for 2 weeks in Vietnam and Cambodia

3) Cambodia: Culture Immersion

Angkor Wat, without a doubt, is the biggest attraction in Cambodia. It is a place where children can experience the culture's charms as well as adults. It was once the capital of the Khmer kingdom — the most powerful in Southeast Asian history. There, you can walk through the ruins of once-glorious buildings and discover their history.

Further reading:

• Itinerary options for 2 weeks in Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia

4) Bali: Luxury Beach Resorts

For those who like all the fun close together, Bali is a one-stop enjoyment island with incredible beach resorts, beautiful beaches, water sports, yoga, a wild nightlife, friendly people, and enough shops to shop until you drop.

It is one of the most popular destinations in SE Asia, and once you get there you will instantly understand why.

There you can embrace your loved one(s) in a cruise under the sunset, relax at a spa surrounded by nature, cycle through the rice terraces, take cooking classes, go on a volcano sunrise trek ...

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

5) Singapore: Convenience, Quality, Universal Studios…

Singapore is extremely family friendly with its convenient amenities, widely-spoken English, various cuisines, Universal Studios, and big events, like the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix.

Tour recommendation : 13-Day Private Singapore and Bali Journey of Discovery

6) Laos: Slow-Paced Vibe, Buddhist Heritage

Heading somewhat off the Southeast Asia beaten track, Laos is a beautiful and tranquil nation offering UNESCO World Heritage sites, charming old towns, stunning natural scenery, tribal villages, diverse ethnic arts, adventure, outdoor activities, and amazing food.

Luang Prabang is its most popular destination as a result of the many beautiful historical sites, the unique surrounding scenery, the pure alms-giving ceremony, as well as its elephant sanctuary with well-preserved habitat.

Tour recommendation : 14-Day Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos Tour

7) Myanmar: A Romantic Way to See Temple Relics

There's nothing more romantic in Myanmar than taking a hot air balloon ride in Bagan over 2,000 pagodas and temples to watch the sunrise from the sky.

Bagan is enthusiastically loved by photographers, couples, and people who are sympathetic to Buddhism.

Visit Bagan before it's overwhelmed by tourists!

Tour recommendation : 17-day Private tour to Myanmar, Vietnam, and Laos

2. Decide How Many Days to Stay

According to our data, most visitors spend 13–18 days on their first Southeast Asia trip to explore Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

1. 10–12 Days (time-efficient):

For a shorter excursion, focus on one country or a maximum of two to avoid the hassles of frequent hotel changes and rushing to airports. Consider popular combinations like Thailand and Cambodia , Thailand and Vietnam , Vietnam and Cambodia , or Singapore and Thailand .

With our expertly crafted itinerary, it is also possible to effortlessly visit three countries , such as our 12-Day Essential Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour , which covers the highlights of these captivating destinations.

Here is a sample itinerary to visit Thailand and Cambodia  (with the map below). 

2. 15–18 Days (for highlights):

With a bit more time, you can comfortably explore two or three countries . This allows for a deeper immersion into the local culture and a more relaxed pace. Consider combinations like Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, or select two among the three countries.

See our private tour 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour  (with the map below).

3. 20–30 Days (in-depth):

For an extended holiday, ranging from 20 to 30 days, you can embark on a thorough exploration of the entire peninsula . This duration is ideal for covering countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos. Devote time to immerse yourself in the unique offerings of each destination.

Get some inspiration from our crafted itinerary: 19-Day In-Depth Tour of Southeast Asia (with the map below) .

Suggested reading:

• 2 Weeks in Southeast Asia: Top 5 Trip Itineraries
• 3 Weeks in Southeast Asia: Top 3 Trip Itineraries
• 4 Weeks in Southeast Asia: The Ultimate Itinerary for You! (Expert Advice)

3. Consider the Best Times to Travel

Lying within the tropics with southern areas very close to the equator, most of Southeast Asia is warm all year round.

• 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). One of the busiest times is around Christmas and New Year. Hotels in popular cities/islands and flights between popular destinations are likely to be sold out in advance. Be sure to plan and make reservations in advance.
• Wet-season monsoon rains fall from June to October in most SE Asian countries (Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar). The brief, intense rain showers during the wet season are unlikely to disrupt your plans.
• April to May are the hottest months with daytime temperatures reaching 37–40°C (99–104°F).

However, Indonesia (Bali) and Singapore are exceptions .

• The dry seasons in these two countries are from April to September.
• The rainy season (usually downpours in the afternoon) falls from October to March.

The rainy season and the hottest months usually reward you with less crowding and the best deals for flights and hotels. Take your outdoor activities mainly in the morning time during the rainy season.

Check out more on our Best Times to Visit Southeast Asia .

Traveling in Southeast Asia is way cheaper than in Europe and North America. A private tour in this region becomes an affordable indulgence , promising a luxurious experience without breaking the bank.

Hotels here won't break the bank. A 3-star hotel in Thailand is around 50-70 USD, and a 4-star one is 80-100 USD. Even luxury hotels cost as much as budget ones in the UK or US. You can go fancy or save big by staying in a hostel.

Eating is super affordable, thanks to awesome street food. Street vendors and small restaurants are cheap, and even fancy international meals in good restaurants won't cost more than a regular dinner in the UK or US. Imagine paying just 10 bucks for lunch and 20 to 50 USD for a nice dinner.

Activities are a steal too. Entry fees to temples and tourist spots are generally low, and adventurous experiences such as elephant trekking, snorkeling, and boat trips seldom exceed 20 USD.

Booking a trip to Thailand with Asia Highlights is excellent value for money!

In a region full of choices and potential tourist traps, we're here to reveal authentic Southeast Asia. Crafted by travel experts, our trips focus on culture, genuine experiences, and creating unforgettable memories together.

Costs vary with travel times. During the peak season, the cost for a private guided tour plus 4-star level hotels and flight connections within Southeast Asia normally ranges from US$200–250 per person per day . Kids under 10 get 30 to 50 percent off . Traveling in a bigger group or during shoulder season usually means less cost.

Book early (at least 3 months before departure) for better prices.

Flights from major U.S. cities to Southeast Asia require transfers. It takes less time to transfer via Taipei, Hong Kong, Singapore, or Seoul.

As popular tourist destinations and large cities in Southeast Asia, Thailand's Bangkok and Vietnam's Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh are usually visited as a first point of entry.

Air travel is the best way to travel between countries in Southeast Asia. Almost all capitals and popular tourist destinations have direct regional flights.

Booking a private tour with us, we will arrange your transportation within Southeast Asia. Our travel consultant will search the flight schedules, arrange the best connections, and book the air tickets.

6. Check Visa Requirements

Getting visas is generally an easy thing when touring Southeast Asia. Most countries offer visa-free entry, e-visas, or visas-on-arrival.

If you come from the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, or Switzerland, the following are available:

Tailor-Make Your Southeast Asia Tour with Us

Our private tours are the hassle-free solution to making family/couple trip arrangements. You would have a one-to-one travel consultant that you can always contact to communicate your tour ideas whenever it is convenient for you.

We would design your itinerary based on your interests, hotel preferences, dietary considerations, and other requirements.

• 11-Day Best of Thailand and Cambodia Tour
• 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour
• 19-Day In-Depth Tour of Southeast Asia
• 28-Day Grand Indochina Tour

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

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Your Southeast Asia itinerary: 8 ideas for exploring the region

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 05.06.2024

You can’t expect to fit everything Southeast Asia has to offer into one trip – or two or three or four, to be fair – and we don’t suggest you try. So, to help you start planning, we’ve put together eight ideas for your Southeast Asia itinerary from The Rough Guide to Southeast Asia on a Budget .

3. Laos and Cambodia

4. bangkok and northern thailand, 5. thailand’s beaches and islands, 6. singapore and malaysia, 7. indonesia, 8. the philippines.

For those taking a big, extended trip around the continent you could join a few together, but remember that the distances you’ll be covering can be vast. Plus, there’s lots to discover off the beaten track.

For a complete guide to exploring the region and up-to-date recommendations of the best hotels, hostels, activities and more, buy the full guide here .

Start in colonial streets of Hanoi (1), the country’s historical, political and cultural capital. Go for a sail around the famed natural wonders of Ha Long Bay (2), before heading to the northern hills to the ethnic minority villages orbiting Sa Pa (3).

Take the train down to imperial architecture of Hué (4), make a day-trip to the DMZ , then move south to charming Hoi An (5). Nha Trang (6) is Vietnam 's pre-eminent beach party town, whereas Mui Ne (7) offers great water-sports and sandy coasts with a more laid-back vibe.

Da Lat (8) is your gateway to the Central Highlands , and from here you can strike southwest to reach bustling Ho Chi Minh City (9). Once you've explored the city, travel to the Mekong Delta (10) where you can visit one of the region's floating markets, before finishing your trip on the island of Phu Quoc (11), a restful place perfect for beach bums and divers.

Make sure to add Ninh Binh to your Vietnam itinerary

Kick-off in Yangon (1) for street markets and the glorious Shwedagon Paya , then go to Mawlamyine (2), Myanmar 's third largest city. Catch a boat to Hpa-an (3) before visiting one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the country, Kyaiktiyo (4).

Kalaw (5) is a perfect base for treks to ethnic-minority villages, and traditional life at Inle Lake (6) shouldn’t be missed either. Watch the sunset over Mandalay (7), then head northeast to stroll the botanical gardens at Pyin Oo Lwin (8).

Take the train across the Goteik viaduct to Hsipaw (9), an increasingly popular trekking base and finish with a hot-air-balloon ride over the awe-inspiring temples of Bagan (10).

Bagan, Mandalay, Myanmar

Begin with the unmissable two-day trip down the Mekong River from Houayxai to Luang Prabang (1), the city of golden spires. Then its off to the stunning natural playground of Vang Vieng (2), before venturing to the country’s quaint capital, Vientiane (3).

Enjoy the pretty French-colonial lanes of Savannakhet (4) and explore the Khmer ruins of Wat Phou near Champasak (5). Set course towards Si Phan Don (6) to chill out for a few days in one of the four thousand islands scattered across the Mekong River. Catch a mini-bus to Cambodia for river dolphin watching in Kratie (7).

An easy bus ride takes you from Phnom Penh (8) to Siem Reap , where the world-famous temples of Angkor (9) beg to be explored. But if you’re feeling a little travel-worn afterwards kick back on the beach resort and offshore islands of Sihanoukville (10) or laze riverside in relaxed Kampot (11).

Turquoise water of Kuang Si waterfall, Luang Prabang, Laos © Ana Flasker/Shutterstock

The Royal Palace, Phnom Penh © mrmichaelangelo/Shutterstock

After immersing yourself in Bangkok (1), Thailand ’s frenetic and thriving capital, chill-out among the rafthouses and waterfalls of Kanchanaburi (2).

Rent a bicycle to explore the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya (3) and then make for the elegant temple remains in Sukhothai (4). To break free of the tourist route head to isolated Umphang (5), where the surrounding mountains are perfect for trekking.

Chaing Mai (6) is always a backpacking favourite, but an amble through the arty night markets and excellent live-music bars of Pai (7) shouldn’t be missed either.

Thinking of travelling to Thailand? Start planning by learning about how to get there .

Lumpini Park, Bangkok, Thailand @ Shutterstock

Commence among the old-world charms of Thailand 's Phetchaburi (1), then take a trip to the paradisiacal islands of Ko Tao (2) and Ko Pha Ngan (3) for raging moon parties or a detox.

Trek through the jungle in Khao Sok National Park (4) ­– one of the most bio-diverse places on the planet – and as you move further south, consider a stop in the slightly ugly tourist village of Ko Phi Phi (5) for undeniably fun all-night parties, snorkelling and diving.

Continue south to the relaxed island getaway of Ko Lanta (6), before winding this itinerary down in the pockets of paradise still remaining in Ko Lipe (7) and the stunning Ko Tarutai National Marine Park nearby.

Seascape of Thailand, Lipe Island © Shutterstock

Singapore (1) is an easy introduction to Southeast Asia with its array of tourist-friendly pleasures. But move on to Melaka (2) for a fascinating mix of cultures and an ideal first stop in Malaysia .

Kuala Lumpur (3) is a must, as is former-colonial George Town (4), with its thriving food and arts scenes. Next, make some time to relax on the beaches of the Perhentian Islands (5) before heading to the rainforests of Taman Negara National Park (6), before catching a ride on the jungle railway to Kota Bharu .

Attractive Kuching (7) is an ideal base for visits to the Iban longhouses , and a journey along the 560km Batang Rajang (8) river into the heart of Sarawak is unforgettable.

Nature and adventure buffs alike will love Gunung Mulu National Park (9), Kinabalu National Park (10) and the wildlife outside of Sandakan (11). Finish this itinerary among the teeming marine life of Pulau Sipadan (12), one of the top dive sites in the world.

Chinatown, Singapore @ Shutterstock

Tea plantation Cameron highlands, Malaysia

There’s plenty to discover by starting in Sumatra ’s Bukit Lawang and Danau Toba (1), the famous orang-utan centre, soaring volcanoes and island retreats among them.

Take time to explore Indonesia ’s capital, Jakarta (2), before moving on to Java cultural heart: Yogyakarta (3), the best base for the temples of Borobudur and Prambanan . Take a pre-dawn hike up to the crater rim of still-smoking Gunung Bromo (4), adventure the many wonders of Hindu Bali and hop over the Lombok (6) and the Gili Islands for adventures in paradise.

Enjoy close encouters with Komodo dragons in Komodo and Rinca (7) before heading to the mountainous landscapes of fertile Flores (8). Finish up on Sulawesi , immersed in the flamboyant festivals and fascinating culture of Tanah Toraja (9).

Taman Ayun Temple - Bali, Indonesia © Shutterstock

Start by soaking up the compelling energy of Manila (1), a convenient gateway to some of the country’s more inaccessible areas.

Check out the shipwrecks and prehistoric landscapes of Palawan (2), before you pass through Cebu city (3) on your way to Camiguin (4), a small volcanic island home to a bohemian arts scene and some amazing adventure activities.

Surfers flock to the acclaimed reef breaks of Siargao (5), while the captivating sunsets and limited electricity at both Malapascua and Bantayan (6) typifies island living at its best.

Boracay (7) also shouldn’t be missed, home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and nightlife rivalling Manila . Conclude this itinerary in the cool mountain villages of the Igorot tribes in the Cordillera (8), nestled among jaw-dropping rice-terrace scenery.

Bantayan island, Philippines © Shutterstock

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Itineraries for Southeast Asia

• Suggested itineraries

More itineraries

Where to go, how long to stay there, where to go next, east or west, north or south? How long have you got? How long do you need? Itinerary planning can be almost as maddening as it is fun and here are some outlines to help you get started. Remember, don't over plan !

Quick links

Burma lends itself to a short fast trip with frequent flights thrown in or a longer, slower trip where you don't leave the ground. There isn't much of a middle ground. Ground transport remains relatively slow, so be wary about trying to fit too much in.

A week in and around Yangon

Exploring Mon and Karen States

How much time to allow for a visit to Burma?

Two weeks in Burma

Two weeks in southern Burma

Yangon to Pyay and Bagan

Roughly apple-shaped, you'd think Cambodia would be ideal for circular routes, but the road network isn't really laid out that way. This means you'll most likely find yourself through some towns more than once, so work them into your plans.

A week around Siem Reap

Northwest Cambodia by motorbike

One month in Cambodia

One week in Cambodia

Two weeks in Cambodia

How long have you got? That's not long enough. Really. You'd need a few lifetimes to do this sprawling archipelago justice. Be wary of trying to cover too much ground - the going in Indonesia can be slow.

Bali: Drive around the island

Bali: One week

Bali: Two weeks

Flores: 18 days

Java: Highlights

Java: One week

Java: Two weeks

Java: Two weeks in Central Java

Java: Two weeks in East Java

Java: Two weeks in West Java

Lombok: One month

Our favourite beaches

Sulawesi: A quick loop

Sumatra: Two weeks in North Sumatra

Sumba: Four days

Sumba: Two weeks

Sumbawa: Four weeks

Sumbawa: One week

Sumbawa: Two weeks

North or south or both? Laos is relatively small and transport is getting better and better. Those visiting multiple countries can pass through here a few times making for some interesting trips.

A week around Luang Prabang

North or south?

One week in Laos

Three weeks in northern Laos

Two weeks in Southern Laos

The peninsula is easy, with affordable buses, trains and planes and relatively short distances. Sabah and Sarawak are also relatively easy to get around.The vast majority of visitors stick to the peninsula but Borneo is well worth the time and money to reach.

Classic Sabah in two weeks

Four weeks in Sabah

How long should I spend in Sarawak?

So much to see, so much to do. Thailand boasts some of the better public transport in the region so getting around can be fast and affordable. If time is limited, stick to one part of the country.

3 weeks on Thailand’s northern Andaman coast

Bangkok to Chiang Mai the slow way

Bangkok to the islands the slow way

Four weeks along the Mekong in Northeast Thailand

Four weeks in Eastern Thailand

Four weeks in Far Southern Thailand

Four weeks in Southern Thailand

Four weeks on Thailand’s southwest islands

Island hopping in Thailand

Mae Salong Loop

Northern Thailand loop

One week in Thailand

Phuket to Krabi the slow way

Thailand Eastern Island Explorer

Thailand highlights in two weeks

The Mae Hong Son Loop

Two weeks in Northeast Thailand

Two weeks in northern Thailand

Long and thin, Vietnam looks straightforward, but the going is slow and the distances getting from A to B can really bite into a tight trip plan. If you’re not on an open-ended trip, plan carefully and don’t try to do too much. If you are visiting for a relatively short amount of time, strongly consider spending it in just one region of the country—north, central or south.

Ha Long Bay or Sapa?

Hà Nội or Hồ Chí Minh City (Saigon)

How to do the Dien Bien Phu loop

Mekong Delta primer

Motorbike Vietnam's Central Highlands

Sapa or Bac Ha?

Two weeks in Southern Vietnam

Two weeks in Vietnam

This is where itinerary planning really becomes fun. Be sure to check up on our visa, border crossing and visa sections to make sure you're not trying to do the impossible. Also, remember you're planning a holiday -- not a military expedition.

A year's worth of travel

Four weeks in Northern Laos & Northern Vietnam

Great river trips in Southeast Asia

Ko Chang to Phu Quoc Island

Southern Cambodia, Laos & Vietnam

Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam explorer

Travel in Southeast Asia during Ramadan

Three Awesome Southeast Asia Travel Routes For An Unforgettable Trip

Ready for an epic southeast Asia road trip? Here are three unmissable itineraries for the trip of a lifetime.

Southeast Asia. The land of majestic views, awesome beaches and unimaginable adventures. 

So… You’ve decided on your dream trip and now you’re wondering what’s the best Southeast Asia travel route to take. 

From Angkor Wat and Siem Reap to Krabi and Vang Vieng, we don’t want to hype ourselves up too much, but boyyyy we have put together a killer trio of itineraries. You’ll struggle to decide which Asia trip itinerary to choose (sorry, not sorry).

Whether you’re a beach lover, a culture addict, an adventurer or someone who’s just keen to see a little bit of everything, here are three one-month Southeast Asia travelling routes to help you rock your trip.

Ready? Pack your bags and book those flights, let’s get going…

South East Asia Travelling Routes: At A Glance

• The Beach Lover’s Dream: Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia
• The Cultural Odyssey: Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Myanmar
• Adventure and Adrenaline: Vietnam, Laos, Thailand

Travelling Southeast Asia Route 1: The Beach Lovers’ Dream

Southeast Asia has more beaches than you could ever visit, even if you were travelling for a year. It’s a beach bum’s paradise. 

But which beaches do you choose? Here’s a Southeast Asia 1 month itinerary with the best beaches on the subcontinent. 

Day 1-3: Ho Coc Beach, Vietnam

Why go to Ho Coc?

*Checks watch* How long have we got? Ho Coc is a haven for rest and relaxation. We’d wager a bet that Ho Coc Beach is the most beautiful beach on the southern coast of Vietnam, with golden sands and crystal clear blue waters. 

Tip: Try to visit in the middle of the week when it’s much quieter and you will have the beach to yourself.

How to get to Ho Coc from Ho Chi Minh City?

Fly into Ho Chi Minh City, and make your way to Ho Coc Beach Resort. The cheapest way of doing this is to hire a car, which will take around 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Suggested Stay: Melia Ho Tram Beach Resort

Day 4-6: Phú Quốc

Why go to Phú Quốc?

Alright, I know we hyped up Ho Coc, but you should go to Phú Quốc as the island has some of the best beaches that Vietnam has to offer. Including its most popular beaches, Long Beach and Star Beach. 

Sink down into the golden sand and admire the swaying coconut palms (maybe accompanied by the delectable martinis from the beach bar). 

Make sure that you stay on the beach for sunset at least one day- Phú Quốc is famous for the dazzling light show it puts on every evening.

Suggested Stay: The Shells Resort & Spa

How to get to Phú Quốc from Ho Coc

It’s an early start today and drive your car back up to Ho Chi Minh City. You then need to take a bus or taxi to Ho Chi Minh Mien Tay, and then jump on the Kumho Samco Bus to Rach Gia. 

Once there, take the ferry to Phú Quốc and head onwards to your hotel. This route will take you a little over 9 hours, if you time things right. 

Day 7-10: Koh Rong Samolem and Pineapple Island, Cambodia

Why go to Koh Rong Samloem?

Koh Rong Samolem, only 9km long and 4km wide, is one of the main beach destinations in Cambodia . This spot is part of a tiny cluster of islands and, don’t tell the others, but this one is our fave.

There are great places to snorkel, kayak, mountain bike and even jungle-trek all over the island. Not to mention sun-bathing on the island’s beautiful beaches. 

They also hold Full Moon parties at Good Vibz Camp on the island during the high season. If you have more time, spend at least a few more days exploring the cool things to do in Cambodia.

Suggested Stay: Sok San Beach Resort

How to get from Phú Quốc to Koh Rong Samolem

Catch the ferry from Phú Quốc to Hà Tiên, and then take a taxi to Kampot. From Kampot, take a bus to Sihanoukville, and then a ferry to Koh Rong Samloem. This route should take about 9 and a half hours.

Day 11-14: Ko Samui and Koh Pha Ngan, Thailand

Why go to Koh Samui?

This Southeast Asia travel route is all about the beaches – and there’s no way we could miss Koh Samui off the list.

It’s been a long day of travelling, we’ll give you that. But Koh Samui is more than ready to reward you for your efforts with some spectacular beaches.

Our favourites are Choeng Mon, Taling Ngam (which is the best for the sunset), and Bang Po. The latter has a reputation for being the most laid-back beach in Northern Samui – and I don’t disagree.

By now, after spending pretty much two weeks travelling Southeast Asia on a quest for the best beaches, you should be pretty relaxed. While there’s plenty of scope for more of the same in Koh Samui, take one of your three days to catch the 20 minute ferry ride to Koh PhaNgan. 

Pha Ngan doesn’t really need an introduction: the beautiful island is renowned for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and of course its huge full-moon party .

If you have more time, take a detour to Koh Tao, the diver’s mecca and one of the cheapest places to get your PADI qualification in the world. 

Is this the best south east Asia travel route? Hells yeah.

Suggested Stay: Moon Cottage, Choeng Mon Beach

How to get from Koh Rong Samolem to Koh Samui

First things first, get up early – you’ve got a long day of travelling to do! Although the distances when you are travelling Southeast Asia are relatively small, this is one that involves a lot of connections.

Catch the ferry back to Sihanoukville and get a taxi to the airport, and then get a flight from Sihanoukville Airport to Bangkok Airport. From there, then take a flight to Koh Samui Airport, and then a taxi to your hotel. 

This could take up to 12 hours, after waiting for your connecting flight.

Day 15-16: Railay Beach, Thailand

Why go to Railay?

You are NOT ready for Railay. Though it’s increasingly on the tourist radar, Railay has lost none of the chilled-out vibe and friendly atmosphere that attracted travellers in the first place. 

This paradise is surrounded by warm blue sea, golden sand and lush jungle – not to mention all of the karst rocks rising from the sea and in the surrounding areas. 

The area is a rock-climber’s dream and a great place to test your vertical skills if you can peel yourself off of your beach towel.

Suggested Stay: Sand Sea Resort

How to get from Koh Samui to Railay

From Koh Samui, take a ferry to Don Sak Pier. Grab a taxi to the Lomprayah Donsak Pier, and then get a bus to Krabi. Walk 9 minutes to the Krabi Town Pier, and then get a ferry to Railay Beach. 

This journey should take about 6 and a half hours. Once there, if you’re not too tired, head straight to the beach!

Day 17-19: Ko Phi Phi, Thailand

Why go to Koh Phi Phi?

You didn’t really think we could make a beach lover’s South East Asia travel route without including THE Beach did you?! 

The Phi Phi island group is made up of 6 islands, but the two main ones are Phi Phi Don and the uninhabited Phi Phi Leh. Not heard of Phi Phi Leh? How about Maya Bay, where Leonardo DiCaprio’s ‘ The Beach ’ was filmed? Thought so.

These picture-perfect islands, with their tropical beaches, amazing rock formations and colourful marine life are pretty close to paradise on earth. Just don’t blame us if you don’t want to leave.

Suggested Stay: P.P. Blue Sky Resort

How to get from Railay to Koh Phi Phi?

Take the ferry from Ao Nang Pier to Phi Phi Island, which takes about an hour and a half.

Day 20-21: Ko Lanta, Thailand

Why go to Koh Lanta?

For the beaches, DUH. There are plenty of beaches on Koh Lanta (which is actually several islands), but we recommend checking out Long Beach and Klong Dao Beach, on the north of Ko Lanta Yai.  

Both have huge stretches of beautiful white sand with clear water, which make them perfect for swimming. Koh Lanta’s got a really cool vibe overall, just one of the reasons we’ve named it one of the top places to go in Thailand.

Long Beach has got something of a reputation as the island’s trendiest beach: head there for a (slightly) more upmarket vibe and lots of people spotting.  

Suggested Stay: Lanta Pearl Beach Resort

How to get from Koh Phi Phi to Koh Lanta

Take the ferry from Koh Phi Phi to Koh Lanta, and then take a taxi to your hotel. This journey should take around 2 and a half hours. Now it’s time for you to explore…

Day 22-23: Ko Lipe, Thailand

Why go to Koh Lipe?

Koh Lipe is what everyone thinks of when they think of travelling Southeast Asia.

The island has 3 beaches: Sunrise Beach (our personal favourite with great views of the sunrise of course). There’s also Sunset Beach, a quieter beach with views of the sunset, and Pattaya Beach, the liveliest beach on the island, with great bars, restaurants and nightlife to entertain you. 

Guess where we spent most of our time? Answer: Pattaya.

That said, we recommend staying at Sunrise Beach, because it has got all the best bits of Pattaya without the crowds! And a tip – if you go to the top of Sunrise Beach, you can see the sunrise and also the sunset from the same spot – it’s out of this world.

Suggested Stay: Salisa Resort

How to get from Ko Lanta to Koh Lipe?

Take a taxi to the Ko Lanta Port, and then jump on a ferry to Koh Lipe, which should roughly take around 3 and a half hours.

Looking for more inspiration for a beach holiday? Our beach destination guides and tips are filled with ideas galore.

Day 24-26: Perhentian Islands, Malaysia

Why go to the Perhentian Islands?

After a few days in more popular spots, head to these islands to simply get away from it all. 

There are 2 main Perhentian Islands, Kecil, which is popular among the backpacking crowd, and Besar, which is more relaxed, full of blindingly white sand and crystal clear water.

While not as party-orientated as their Thai neighbours, you can usually find a beach party on the Perhentian Islands, and there’s always a bonfire. They’re like the Thai islands 20 years ago – all beauty and chill.

Suggested Stay: Perhentian Island Resort

How to get from Koh Lipe to the Perhentian Islands

You’ll spend most of the day travelling but it will be worth it. First take a ferry to the Pakbara Pier from Koh Lipe, and then take a taxi to Padang Besar. 

From there, get the train down to Sungai Kolok. Take a taxi or rent a car to Kota Bharu, and then take a bus to Kuala Besut. From there get the ferry to Malaysia’s stunning Perhentian Islands. 

Although this route is long, taking about 12 hours, it is by far the cheapest.

Day 27-29: Tioman Island, Malaysia

Why go to Tioman Island?

Shhhh… Tioman Island is still something of a hidden gem and you should put it onto your Southeast Asia travel route before everyone else does. It’s only 20km long by 11km wide, and the surrounding emerald sea is a perfect place to swim, snorkel and even dive. 

And it doesn’t stop there – there are cascading waterfalls, thrilling jungle hikes and laid-back island villages to bring out your adventurous side. You’ll never want to leave… Unfortunately though, your Southeast Asia travel adventure is almost over. 

On Day 30, head to Singapore Changi Airport to depart for home.

Suggested Stay: Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort

How to get from the Perhentian Islands to Tioman Island

From the Perhentian Besar, take a ferry back to Kuala Besut. From there, take a bus to Mersing, change at Kota Bharu, and then take a ferry from Mersing Jetty to Tioman Island. 

This route will take about 13 hours, so make sure you get up early.

Want more Southeast Asia travel ideas? Check out my collection of Southeast Asia travel guides to help you plan your trip.

Travelling Southeast Asia Route 2: A Cultural Odyssey

Southeast Asia has incredible architecture, ruins and monuments, all oozing with culture (not to mention the perfect Instagram opportunity or two). 

Love culture and looking for the best Southeast Asia route for your trip? This backpacking Southeast Asia route will take you to the best of them. You can thank me later.

Day 1-3: Hué Monuments, Vietnam

Why go to Hué?

If the impressive visuals alone don’t convince you, the fact that the complex of Hué Monuments is a UNESCO world heritage site and it is located in and around the city of Hué, really should. 

History buffs will adore Hué. Designated as the capital of unified Vietnam in 1802, the huge complex features a number of monuments and ruins, such as the Imperial City, the Forbidden Purple City, and royal tombs, pagodas and temples. 

Rich in architecture and with a beautiful landscape surrounding, a visit to the Hué Monuments is definitely worth a visit if you’re on the lookout for some of the best cultural sites in Southeast Asia.

Suggested Stay: Cherish Hué Hotel

How to get to Hué from Hanoi?

Start your Southeast Asia 1 month itinerary by flying into Hanoi (if you have time – spend a day or two here checking out the best things to do in Hanoi, which has more than a few cultural sites of its own), and then get a 1 hour flight to Hué. 

Alternatively, you can take the (much slower but more panoramic) train from Hanoi to Hué. It’s one of the classic Southeast Asia travel experiences and worth it if you have the time.

Day 4-5: Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary, Vietnam

Why go to Mỹ Sơn?

The Mỹ Sơn Hindu Sanctuary is a cluster of more than 70 partially ruined Hindu temples, devoted to Hindu Gods and Goddesses, especially the God Shiva.

The intricate temples contain grand stone sculptures and towers in lush, tropical jungle settings. 

Learn from our mistakes, people. We recommend getting there in the morning, before it gets too hot and before the crowds arrive, and then returning to Hoi An in the afternoon/evening, so you can explore its Ancient Town. 

An increasing number of those travelling Southeast Asia visit the temples, but they’re still a relatively quiet spot.

Suggested Stay: Mỹ Sơn Hội An Resort and Spa

How to get from Hue to Mỹ Sơn

From Hué, take a bus to Da Nang, and then take a taxi to Mỹ Sơn. This should take about an hour and 40 minutes, but it’s best to stay in Hội An, as it is the closest big town to Mỹ Sơn.

Day 6-7: Temple of Preah Vihear, Cambodia

Why go to Preah Vihear?

This is where history nerds will really come into their own – bring your A-Level History knowledge with you. Dating back to 11BC, the site’s architecture and carved stone ornamentation is very high quality, and so well preserved for its remote location. 

Stay in a hotel in Preah Vihear for the night and then carry on exploring in the morning, before heading back to Siem Reap for night seven.

Suggested Stay in Preah Vihear: Sokha Home

How to get from Mỹ Sơn to Preah Vihear?

Take a taxi to Danang Airport and then take a flight to Siem Reap, which should take around 2 hours in total. 

In order to get to Preah Vihear, the easiest method is to rent a car, which should take about 3 hours. Preah Vihear is a temple situated on the top of a 525m cliff in the Dângrêk Mountains, dedicated to the God Shiva.

Day 8-10: Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, Cambodia

Having spent the night in Siem Reap, head into Angkor Wat, a 5 minute taxi ride away. We recommend hiring a tuk tuk or bike to get around between the temples as some of the distances between the less visited ones are quite far.

Why go to Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom?

Because it’s one of the most fascinating architectural complexes on the planet – ‘nuff said.

But seriously, Angkor Wat is a complex of temples which also happens to be the largest religious monument in the world. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, this huge and incredibly detailed temple is awe-inspiring.

Angkor Thom was the last capital of the Khmer Empire, and was a city with the residences of palace officials, military and priests inside, enclosed by a 12km high wall and a moat. 

Some of the best attractions and most important monuments in Angkor Thom to check out are the Royal Enclosure, Baphuon, Bayon and the Terrace of Elephants. 

We recommend spending about 3 days in the Angkor complex to see everything in depth.

Suggested Stay: Lotus Blanc Resort

Day 11-13: Grand Palace Bangkok, Thailand

Why go to the Grand Palace in Bangkok?

Seriously… just look at that photo! The Grand Palace is a huge complex of ornate buildings that have been the official residence of the Kings of Thailand since it was built in 1782.

There are 35 sights to see in the Grand Palace Complex, including the Phra Maha Monthian and Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall, the two oldest, and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which contains a Buddha Statue over 2000 years old. 

The beautiful complex of buildings is a must-see on your cultural sites itinerary.

The Grand Palace also features in our pick of the best things to do in Thailand – here’s why .

Suggested Stay: Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok

How to get from Siem Reap to Bangkok?

From Siem Reap, get a bus to the Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal. This will take about 7 hours, so after arriving, head to your hotel and then explore Bangkok for the evening.

The next morning, take a short taxi ride to the Grand Palace Bangkok, located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in the old city.

Day 14-15: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Why go to Ayutthaya?

Who doesn’t want to walk among these beautiful ruins? Founded in 1350, Ayutthaya was the second capital of the Siamese Kingdom, after Sukhothai, and is an island at the meeting of the Lopburi River, the Chao Phraya River, and the Pa Sak River.

The ancient city continued to flourish until it was attacked in 1767 by the Burmese Army, and today the site boasts incredible ruins, such as the Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the largest temple in Ayutthaya, and the Phra Chedi Suriyothai, a white and gold chedi built in memory of a past queen.

Suggested Stay: iuDia Hotel

How to get from Bangkok to Ayutthaya?

Get the train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya Station, taking only about 1 hour, and then get a short taxi ride to Ayutthaya.

Day 16-18: Sukhothai Historical Park, Thailand

Why go to Sukhothai?

Sukhothai Historical Park contains 193 ruins of Sukhothai, the capital of the Kingdom in the 13th-14th century. The entire area smacks you in the face with impressive temples and ruins.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, inside the park sits the remains of the Noen Prasad (the Royal Palace), Wat Mahathat (the most impressive and important temple in the park), and our favourite, Wat Sa Si, which is beautifully situated in the middle of the Traphang-Trakuan Lake.

Suggested Stay: Sawasdee Sukhothai Resort

How to get from Ayutthaya to Sukhothai?

From Ayutthaya, get a 6 hour bus journey to Sukhothai, and then get a short taxi ride to the Sukhothai Historical Park.

Day 19-21: Luang Prabang, Laos

Why go to Luang Prabang?

We could ramble on about our love of Laos for hours, but Luang Prabang might just be our fave spot. This is an ancient town in Northern Laos , which lies between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. 

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town is well known for its beautiful and ornate Buddhist temples and monasteries, including the Wat Xiang Kong Temple, and also for its natural sites, such as Mount Phou Si and the Kuang Si Falls.

Suggested Stay: Indigo House Hotel

How to get from Sukhothai to Luang Prabang?

Get up early because you’ve got a whole day of travelling to do! Get a bus from Sukhothai to Phitsanulok, and then a bus to Loei. 

All in all this should take about 15 hours, so we recommend heading straight to your hotel and resting before you start exploring tomorrow.

Laos is also one of the cheapest countries in the world and the perfect destination to help your cash go further. Check out the full list of affordable holiday destinations for a luxury trip .

Day 22-24: Chiang Rai, Thailand

Why go to Chiang Rai?

Views, views, and more views. This south east Asia route is a killer.

Chiang Rai is a big city in Northern Thailand, and it is home to some of the best sights in the country, such as Wat Ming Meuang, Wat Phra Singh and White Temple. 

But one of our favourite things was going up to the top of Buffalo Horn Hill – the views over the city were incredible. 

Suggested Stay: Maryo Resort

How to get from Luang Prabang to Chiang Rai?

From Luang Prabang, get a bus to Chiang Kong, and then another bus to Chiang Rai. This in total will take about 13 hours, so head to your hotel when you get there. 

The other option is to take a two-day slowboat from Luang Prabang up the Mekong river to the Thai border, cross into Thailand and then get another bus to Chiang Rai from there.

Day 25-27: Chiang Mai, Thailand

Why go to Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is the largest city in Northern Thailand – it’s comparable to Bangkok, but with far fewer people. Which makes for a far more pleasant experience, if you ask us. 

There’s a vast array of things to see in the city, including Wat Phra That Doi Kham, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep. If you want a more relaxed day, it’s also the kind of place where you can just leisurely walk and take in the Thai atmosphere, sampling scoffing some of the local cuisine. 

And if nature is more your thing, take a short scooter or Tuk Tuk ride out of the town into the rain-forested countryside, which is interspersed with beautiful waterfalls.

Suggested Stay: Anantara Chiang Mai

How to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?

Get a bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, which takes about 3 hours.

Day 28-30: Bagan, Myanmar

Why go to Bagan?

It’s a hidden gem! Bagan is an ancient city in Myanmar, known as the temple town, and home to 2,229 temples and pagodas. Trust us, Bagan is guaranteed to be one of the highlights on your cultural Southeast Asia travel route.

We recommend seeing the Ananda Temple and the Shwesandaw Temple, also known as the ‘sunset temple’ – head here in the evening to see the fantastic Bagan sunset.

On your last day, head to Mandalay Airport to get a connecting flight home.

Suggested Stay: Royal Bagan Hotel

How to get from Chiang Mai to Bagan?

Fly from Chiang Mai to Yangon, the Myanmar capital where you will connect onto another flight to Nyaung-U and get a taxi from there to Bagan.

Travelling Southeast Asia Route 3: Adrenaline + Adventure

Adventure opportunities abound when you travel Southeast Asia, so if you’re an adrenaline-seeker, this is the place to go. 

Whether you’re into diving, hiking or climbing, this continent’s got it all. This is your backpacking Southeast Asia route for ultimate thrills.

Day 1-2: Sandboarding at Mũi Né, Vietnam

Why go to Mũi Né?

Not that you’ll ever be bored on this trip, but this is the place where thrillseekers will thrive.

Mũi Né is a beach resort town in Southern Vietnam, famous for its Saharan-like white and red sand dunes, which are perfect for sandboarding down. And if you want something even more upbeat, try the quad bikes or the dune buggies.

Suggested Stay: The Cliff Resort and Residences

How to get to Mũi Né

Start your Southeast Asia 1 month itinerary by flying into Ho Chi Minh City, and then from there take a bus to Phan Thiet, and then a bus from there to Mũi Né. This all in all should take around 4 hours. 

On your first day, I suggest heading to your hotel for an early night before your month of adventure begins. Of course, it’s completely up to you whether you take that advice or not and you could start your Southeast Asia travel itinerary with a bang.

Day 3-5: Spelunking (Caving) at Hang Sơn Đoòng, Vietnam

Why Visit Hang Sơn Đoòng?

Nature lovers will adore this beautiful Vietnamese spot.

Located in the middle of the Vietnamese jungle in the Quang Binh Province, Hang Sơn Đoòng is the world’s largest cave – it’s 3 sizes of Wembley Stadium! And inside there is even a fast-flowing subterranean river. 

One of nature’s most incredible natural marvels, you can’t miss this on your Southeast Asia travel route.

Suggested Stay: Riverside Hotel – Quang Binh

How to get from Mũi Né to Hang Sơn Đoòng

Get up early, as you have a long travel day ahead. From Mũi Né, take a bus back to Phan Thiet, and then take another bus to Nha Trang Dien Thuan. 

Take one more bus from there to Dong Hoi Quang Binh, and then take a taxi to your hotel.

Day 6-8: Rock Climbing in Vang Vieng, Laos

Why go to Vang Vieng?

Vang Vieng is a tourist-oriented town in Laos. Originally, it’s known for its bars, partying and tubing, it’s a cool destination in itself. 

Rock-climbing is Vang Vieng’s hidden gem. The small town is surrounded by beautiful cliffs overlooking idyllic greenery and rice paddies. So clip on your gear and hold on to your ropes – there are cliffs for you to climb!

Check out our guide to rock climbing in Vang Vieng.

Suggested stay: Silver Naga Hotel

How to get from Hang Son Dong to Vang Vieng

Get the bus to Dong Hoi airport, fly to Luang Prabang and then get the bus from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng.

Day 9-11: Hiking from Luang Prabang to Ban Hadkhor, Laos

Why hike from luang prabang to ban hadkor.

This two day hike starts at Luang Prabang, passing through Ban Hadkhang, Pha Theung, and finishing in Ban Had Khor. We love this route because you get to see a massive area of jungle landscape, as well as walk through local villages and trek across rice paddies. 

Camp on the riverbank overnight and then kayak to the Holy Pak Ou Cave on the second day, before heading back to Luang Prabang. It’s fabulous.

Green Discovery Tour from Luang Prabang to Ban Hadkhor

How to get to Luang Prabang from Vang Vieng?

Catch a direct bus from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang, which takes around 6 hours. Then it’s time to get your hiking boots on.

Day 12-17: Hiking, Ziplining and Waterfall Abseiling in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is filled with an abundance of things to do.

First off, head into the jungle for a three-day hike. This trek allows visitors to hike all over the landscapes of Chiang Mai, swim in waterfalls and walk in the jungle. 

We’ll level with you – we don’t recommend taking a tour that visits the Karen Hill tribes, thanks to the questions of exploitation and ethics that surround these, nor do we advocate any treks that involve elephant riding. 

We think that hiking through the Chiang Mai jungle is an adventure enough though, so you should definitely do it.

Next up is ziplining. Nothing says adventure like zipping through the sky at fast speed. Chiang Mai’s ‘Flight of the Gibbon’ zip-line is not only the first in Chiang Mai, but the first in all of Asia! It features 5km of zip lines with 33 platforms, as well as abseiling and sky bridges.

If you’re not exhausted from your days of thrills, it’s time to go waterfall abseiling . After trekking in the forest and jungle, you can abseil down a 100m rocky waterfall in the middle of the jungle. 

If you want an adrenaline rush paired with some beautiful scenery, this is the one for you.

Suggested Stay: Wing Bed

How to get from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai?

The easiest way to travel from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai is to take a direct flight. The much slower and more scenic way is to take a two-day slow boat from Luang Prabang to Chiang Khong and then get the bus from Chiang Khong to Chiang Mai.

Day 18-20: Scuba Diving in Koh Tao

Why go to Koh Tao?

We’re sure you’ve heard plenty of tales about Koh Tao – but mainly, Koh Tao is a fabulous place to scuba dive. With over 20 different dive sites, and we recommend using Crystal Dive as your guides. 

If you’ve ever thought about getting your PADI diving qualification, Koh Tao is the place to do it. 

There aren’t many places where your first dives will be in such spectacular sites. Crystal Dive offers normal dives and also wreck dives for the more adventurous among you, with all sites boasting stunning reefs.

Suggested Stay: Mango Bay Boutique Resort

How to get from Chiang Mai to Koh Tao?

From Chiang Mai Airport, fly to Koh Samui. From there, take the ferry to Koh Tao. All in all, this should take around 6 hours.

Day 21-23: Rock Climbing at Railay Beach, Thailand

Why go to railay beach.

Around Railay Beach is a rock climber’s paradise – all of the rock is limestone and part of the world’s largest coral reef. With over 700 routes around Railay Beach, ranging from beginner to extreme, there’s something for everyone. 

And if that’s not enticing enough, the views of the beautiful beaches should have you hooked. We recommend climbing with Real Rocks Climbing School .

How to get from Koh Tao to Railay?

From Koh Tao, take a 2 hour ferry to Koh Samui, and then take a bus to Krabi. Take a short walk to the Krabi Town Pier, and then get a ferry to Railay Beach. This journey should take about 6 and a half hours.

Day 24-26: Scuba Diving in Andaman Islands

Why go to the Andaman Islands?

Because who doesn’t dream of spending a couple of days on what feels like a private island? The islands are very remote and so have excellent areas for diving with stunning turquoise waters. 

In fact, diving in the Andaman Islands is some of the best in the world. That’s why it deserves its place on this epic southeast Asia itinerary.

There are hundreds of deserted islands to explore, a chance to snorkel with swimming elephants, and a dive site at a live volcano with beautiful marine life, near Barren Island. What more could you want?! 

We recommend diving with Original Diving . After you’ve finished your scuba diving, fly to Delhi, where you will make your trip home, until next time.

Suggested Stay: Advhasaha Resort

How to get from Railay to the Andaman Islands?

The last stop on your adventurous trip is probably the longest to get to, but it is probably also the best – so don’t stop now! Go to Krabi Airport and then get a flight to Port Blair, stopping at Bangkok and Madras, taking a total of about 17 hours.

Useful Resources

Travel currency.

UK travellers can take advantage of the fee-free Monzo prepaid card. Spend your money on cocktails and hotels, not on bank charges.

The Lonely Planet and Rough Guides are go-to reliable books for your Southeast Asia trip.

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Sophie Ritchie is a writer for The Discoveries Of. She’s had a passion for travelling since a young age, and loves to visit new places every year. If she had to pick a favourite place it would be Cuba. Her ultimate dream? To travel to every country in South America.

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If you have more time you could add Da Nang at the beginning of the trip and then to Nha Trang to go to Cam Ranh Bay. At the other end of the trip you could add the Mentawai islands and then the Gili Islands.

Thanks for the suggestions – totally agree. Although there’s a lot you can add in if you are going to Indonesia as well as SE Asia.

Thailand looks insane!! It has been on my mind for a while and after reading this, I know its my next destination!! Great guide and options for different types of travelers!

Hey Aaren – it’s really cool and I love it. In fact, heading back later this year. I hope you have a brilliant time!

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2 Week South East Asia Tours & Trips

• Choose from 850+ South East Asia tours
• 14,200+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
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10 best South East Asia 14 Days tour packages

Compiled by

Nadine South East Asia travel expert at TourRadar

Authentic Of Vietnam & Cambodia - 14 Days

Thailand island hopper, vietnam signature in 14 days by realistic asia, northern thailand adventure, journey through vietnam 14-day, 14 days vietnam & cambodia, best of vietnam in 14 days, vietnam off the beaten path journey in 14 days - private tour, thailand and laos adventure, incredible thailand and laos by train.

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year
• Learn Vietnamese cooking on a boat
• Cruise through Trang An's river caves
• Explore the ancient Bai Dinh Pagoda

• Island Hopping
• Snorkel in crystal waters and swim beneath waterfalls
• Sleep in floating bungalows surrounded by the rainforest
• See Bangkok from the deck of a traditional Thai boat

“Everything was always sorted and running smoothly. I would 100% recommend them both to anyone.”

• Hiking & Trekking
• Bask in the view of mountains and rice terraces in Sapa
• Tickle your tastebuds with a traditional Hanoi food tour
• Board a sampan and cruise down the Mekong Delta River

“Great trip and excellent customer service!”

• Experience a Thai cooking class
• Shop at Taling Chan floating markets
• Explore the Wat Pra Maha Doi Sutthep temple

“The tour was an amazing experience. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment.”

• Tour the historic sites of Hue City
• Explore the ancient Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi
• Visit the iconic My Son Sanctuary

“We are Vietnamese who have been living in the US for a while, so it was nice to see our culture in full again.”

• Taste delicious dishes on a foodie tour through Hoi An
• Explore Siem Reap and catch sunrise over Angkor Wat
• Wave to the locals at the Cai Be floating markets

“Very well organised, a careful balance of guided sightseeing and free time.”

• Embark on an overnight cruise on the UNESCO Halong Bay
• Discover the bustling "Pearl of the Orient" in Ho Chi Minh
• Trek through rice terraces and explore the colorful culture

“I liked having my own free time in all places in addition to joining up with groups for excursions.”

• Navigate Halong Bay on an overnight cruise
• Trek through lush landscapes in Mai Chau
• Discover local life and culture in Pu Luong

“With all the places, the local experience me and my son experiences. We will be back soon!”

• Cruise down the Mekong River to Luang Prabang
• Explore Bangkok's klongs by longboat
• Discover the White Temple in Chiang Rai

“Great sights and good mix of activities.”

• Train & Rail
• Embark on a two-day cruise along the Mekong River
• Explore Bangkok with a Local Insider
• See the atmospheric ruins of the Khmer city of Sukhothai

“Many great experiences and comfortable accommodations, but some differences between itinerary information and expectations.”

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Travel, Hiking, Food

2 Week Southeast Asia Itinerary – 4 Itineraries and Routes

Have 2 weeks in Southeast Asia and not sure where to go? I’ve spent a lot of time in Southeast Asia so I am giving you 4 different Southeast Asia itineraries to choose from!

Southeast Asia is a vast and diverse region located in the south eastern region of Asia. Countries such as Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam are in Southeast Asia.

Although these countries are collectively called Southeast Asia, I found vastly different history, culture, climates, terrain, religion, customs and food in each country, and even within each country!

After all my time there, I found it impossible to have one itinerary for Southeast Asia especially if you are just there for two weeks. Therefore in this blog I will give you 4 different Southeast Asia itineraries and routes depending on what type of things you want to do and see.

This blog contains occasional affiliate links, where I receive a small commission on sales of the products/hotels that are linked at no additional cost to you. In addition, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .

Some Facts About Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is probably one of the most diverse and interesting regions in the world. It has about 680m people in the region, about 8.5% of the world’s population. There are about 1000 languages spoken in Southeast Asia and a number of different religions being practiced in Southeast Asia (Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and others).

Since each country in Southeast Asia has its own history, religion, culture and lifestyle, you can expect to have a vastly unique experience in every country that you visit.

In terms of terrain, you will find lush rainforest, golden rice terrace, powerful waterfalls, awe-inspiring mountains and volcanoes, world renowned beaches and diving sites in Southeast Asia.

If you like food, you will have the opportunity to try different regional food in Southeast Asia. Rice is still the staple food in Asia, but that’s where similarity between each Southeast Asian country’s cuisine ends. Every country (and even provinces within the same country) has their own dishes, ingredients, cooking style and flavor.

If you like history and religion, then you are in luck. You will find ruins of ancient civilizations such as the Pyu civilization in Myanmar, the Khmer kingdoms in Cambodia, the ancient kingdoms in Thailand and Vietnam.

Therefore regardless of what you like to do and want to experience, you will find them in Southeast Asia.

Where to go for two weeks in Southeast Asia?

Southeast Asia Itinerary #1 : First time in Southeast Asia (Thailand & Singapore) Southeast Asia Itinerary #2 : Explore Malaysia & Singapore Southeast Asia Itinerary #3 : Off the Beaten Path (Laos & Northern Vietnam) Southeast Asia Itinerary #4 : Flavor of Everything (Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam)

Since Southeast Asia is a huge region, you cannot see everything in Southeast Asia because that would mean 1-2 days per country!

I think it’s best to spend time in 1-2 countries during at a time so you can get the most out of it (and not spend all your time flying around).

I will highly 4 different Southeast Asia itineraries to best fit your need. Keep in mind that these 4 itineraries mostly cover the part of Southeast Asia that’s on the Mainland.

Southeast Asia Itinerary #1 First time in Southeast Asia itinerary (Thailand & Singapore)

Day 1 – 3 : Bangkok, Thailand Day 4 – 8 : Chiang Mai, Thailand Day 9 – 12 : Thai Islands Day 13 – 14 : Singapore

If you are planning to visit Southeast Asia for the first time, then I would recommend going to the most popular Southeast Asian countries: Singapore and Thailand.

The reason I recommend Singapore is because the population speaks English, everything is very easy to navigate and it is extremely safe.

I also recommend going to Thailand if it’s your first time in Southeast Asia because Thailand has a very well established tourist infrastructure and there are many foreigner visitors and backpackers. Thailand also has a variety of things for you to do, including modern cities, beautiful temples and mountain areas as well as incredible beaches. It is very easy to travel around in Thailand so it’s a great first-time-in-SEA destination.

Day 1 – 3: Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand and it is one of the most visited cities in Southeast Asia.

Bangkok is a very exciting city, it is a city where you will find historical sites, religious monuments, vibrant night life, interesting street markets, and much much more. It is also a great base for day trips to nearby towns and historical sites.

During your 3 days in Bangkok, there are plenty you can do! Also, just in case you are curious on how to save money on attractions, the Bangkok Explorer Pass covers most of the things you’d be interested in doing in Bangkok.

Start off exploring the most famous sites in Bangkok, including the beautiful golden Grand Palace , walk to the nearby Wat Pho (golden leaning buddha), enjoy a river cruise down Chao Phraya River and explore Wat Arun for sunet.

Read Next : 2 Day Bangkok Itinerary and Travel Guide

You need to be dressed conservatively to visit Grand Palace and the religious sites, so your knees and shoulder must be covered. There are places to rent traditional clothing if you don’t have long pants or dress (I get it, it’s hot there!).

You can always book this tour to explore the Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha Temple, Wat Pho, markets and Wat Arun together and save yourself the trouble of having to find ways to get to Wat Arun by yourself.

For evening activities, you can check out Chinatown and the famous pedestrian street Khaosan Road , You can find tons of street food vendors, shops, bars and restaurant in both areas.

Watching Muay Thai match is also something to do at night, or you can simply get a Thai massage and relax (or get a massage everything!).

You can also check out fancy rooftop bars in Bangkok, such as Sky Bar at Lebua Hotel where they filmed Hangover 2 . Other nice rooftop bars include Moon Bar , Red Sky restaurant, Octave , SEEN , etc.

There are wonderful day trips from Bangkok to the world renowned Floating Market , or to visit temples in Ayutthaya or explore Samut Prakan Ancient City . The great thing is all of these day trips are covered by the Bangkok Explorer Pass !

Other exciting things to do in Bangkok including doing a food tour to try all the street food as well as going to a cooking class to learn how to cook Thai food.

Most tours and cooking classes are included on the Bangkok Explorer Pass .

Day 4 – 8: Chiang Mai, Thailand

You can either take an 1 hour flight or a 13 hour train (or sleeper train) from Bangkok to Chiangmai, one of travelers’ favorite regions in Thailand.

Located in the mountainous region in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is the second largest city in Thailand. It was the capital city of the Lanna Kingdom, which is why you will find moats and city walls in Chiang Mai even today.

Chiang Mai may not be as modern and vibrant like Bangkok, but its slower pace, beautiful temples and its proximity to nature actually make it very unique and appealing for visitors.

With 3 to 4 days in Chiang Mai, you can do a lot both in Chiang Mai and nearby places.

You can start by visiting the old city, that is where you will find temples, museums, and interesting sites within the ancient city walls.

Since there are over 3000 temples in Chiang Mai, you can’t see them all. But you can see the best ones such as Wat Chiang Man , Wat Chedi Luang , Wat Lok Moli , Wat Sri Suphan , Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan , etc.

Continue your evening adventure to check out the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar , the night market at Wua Lai Walking Street , or even the Chang Phuak Gate Night Market for authentic street food or if you just want to buy clothing and souvenirs. Just be sure to use a lot of bug spray as the mosquitoes can be aggressive.

Outside of Chiang Mai city center, there are even more things to see. You can take the Monk’s trail to the famous Wat Pha Lat , visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep , see the city from the observation deck, continue up to visit Doi Suthep , Hmong Doi Pui Village . Or take a taxi or a tour if you do not want to hike up or ride a scooter up yourself.

If you like nature, you can do visit Doi Inthanon National Park or hike and bike in Doi Suthep Pui National Park .

If you enjoy adventure, then be sure to not miss zip lining adventure and white water rafting .

If you like animals, you can visit Tiger Kingdom , elephant sanctuary where you can bathe and feed elephants or a night safari in Chiang Mai. You can even stay at Chai Lai Orchid Eco Lodge where you can have elephant visit your room.

Lastly, if you really want to visit the iconic white temple in Chiang Rai, you can do a day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.

Day 9 – 12: Thai Islands

When you think of white sand beach, crystal clear water, wonderful snorkeling and vibrant night life, islands in Thailand check all the boxes.

From Chiang Mai, fly down to Phuket, the gateway to the islands in Thailand.

If you want, you can spend all 3 days in Phuket and do day trips to Phi Phi Island, the famous “ the Beach ” and James Bond Island or do a snorkeling tour to Similan Islands .

Phuket is where most people stay, since it is cheaper than staying on some of the islands, easy to get to from the airport, has a ton of hotels, restaurants, bars and night time entertainment.

But I actually would advise you to stay on some of the islands for a nicer and quieter experience. Islands like Phi Phi, Krabi, Koh Lanta offer a different experience and there are budget to 5 star hotels on these islands.

These islands are also not far from Phuket by boat, so you can easily travel there from Phuket. I particularly loved Phi Phi island and its view point hike, where you can get a postcard perfect view from above.

If you want both beach and nature, then Krabi is a wonderful choice, where you can enjoy the beautiful beach and hike the famous Monkey Trail and Dragon’s Crest. Of course you can also take boat tours from Krabi to visit other beautiful islands, sand bars, islets, etc.

Day 13 – 14 : Singapore

Last but not least, Singapore! Singapore is only a short flight away from Phuket, and it is well connected to large international airports around the world, making it the perfect last stop of your 2 week Southeast Asia itinerary.

Singapore is a small city-state at the tip of Southeast Asia mainland. Although it’s very small in size, it is the third most dense in population in the world (after Macau and Monaco).

Some people say Singapore is an adult’s Disneyland; it is beautiful, modern, clean, safe and just amazing in general. It gives you a very different vibe than what you get in Thailand and any other Southeast Asian country.

Although Singapore is small, there is a lot to do. If you have watched the movie Crazy Rich Asians , you may be familiar with some of the iconic places in Singapore. But if you haven’t, don’t worry, you will find out the famous places in the next few paragraphs.

With only 2 days in Singapore, you will have to prioritize what you want to see and experience.

The most famous sites in Singapore include the Merlion Statue (the symbol of Singapore), Marina Bay Sands (casino + famous Infinity Pool for guests), Gardens by the Bay , Singapore Botanic Gardens , Singapore Flyer (Giant ferris wheel), Singapore Zoo , Cable Car and Sentosa (Island resort with beach, waterpark, Universal Studios), Chinese Garden .

If you are into Museums, Singapore has the National Museum of Singapore, National Gallery Singapore, Asian Civilisations Museum.

Important religious sites include the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple, Thian Hock Keng Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple, Sultan Mosque

Of course don’t forget the Instagram spots in Singapore such as Fort Canning Park, Lory Loft at Jurong Birdpark, the colorful Little India, the Peranakan Houses, and the Jewel Changi Airport itself!

You also cannot leave Singapore without having eaten at a hawker center, open-air complexes with food stalls and don’t forget to grab a beer at Clarke Quay and enjoy the night scene there. Overwhelmed by all the food choices or simply not sure what to eat? Don’t worry, this food tour will take you to the best spots in Singapore!

There are also many fun tours you can take in Singapore, like biking tours , kayaking tour, Singapore River Cruise , hop on hop off bus, and the round trip cable car experience.

The great news is that many attractions and tours in Singapore are Covered by the Singapore attraction pass so you can save a lot of money!

Southeast Asia Itinerary #2: Explore Malaysia & Singapore

Day 1 – 2 : Singapore Day 3 – 5 : Kuala Lumpur Day 6 – 7: Cameron Highlands Day 8 – 10 : Penang Day 11 – 14 : Redang Island or Langkawi

If you have already been to Thailand before or you prefer somewhere different, then I would highly recommend exploring Malaysia.

Malaysia is a large country with a lot of history, culture and different landscape. In Malaysia you will find delicious food, white sand beaches, beautiful tea terraces and mountains as well as modern cities.

Day 1 – 2: Singapore

Start your 2 week Southeast Asia adventure in Singapore and follow Itinerary #1 to explore the highlights of Singapore.

Day 3 – 5: Kuala Lumpur

It is quite easy to get to Kuala Lumpur from Singapore. You can either take a 5 hour bus or take an 1 hour flight. Buses are more frequent and cheaper if you are on a budget, but note that sometimes bus arrives 1-2 hours later than expected, which could cut into your travel time.

Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia. It is where you will find a mixture of tradition and modernity. Kuala Lumpur has some of the most famous sights in Malaysia, such as Petronas Towers , which was featured in the blockbuster movie Entrapment.

In addition, KL is culturally rich with multiple religions. Although the official religion of Malaysia is Islam, but you will find Buddhist, Christian and Hindu communities in KL.

With 2-3 days in KL (depending on when you arrive if you are taking the bus), you can see a lot. Explore the beautiful central KLCC area , where you will find upscale shopping malls, restaurants, gardens, Aquaria KLCC (Aquarium) and the famous Petronas Towers. You can also go up Menara Kuala Lumpur observation deck to have a sweeping view of the city.

Be sure to check out Merdeka Square , where the first Malaysia Flag raising took place on August 31, 1957. Then move onto Central Market and Chinatown and Petaling Street Market for local shopping and food.

One of the best things you can do if you like food is to take a street food tour . This tour lets you sample over 15 dishes and snacks in KL so you don’t have to wonder what’s the best thing to eat!

Other important landmarks in Kuala Lumpur include the National Mosque , Perdana Botanical Garden, Thean Hou Temple, Bukit Bintang (and Jalan Alor street for food), and various museums . You can easily explore KL with a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus .

You may also be interested in day trips to the famous Batu Caves that is all over social media.

Day 6 – 7: Cameron Highlands

If you want to get away from the busy (and often times hot) KL, then Cameron Highlands would be the perfect escape.

Located only about 3-4 hours by bus, Cameron Highlands is located in the mountainous region in central Malaysia. Cameron Highlands was “discovered” by British geologist William Cameron during the British rule and became an agricultural area. Nowadays, Cameron Highlands is one of the most popular tourist spots in Malaysia.

Given its location in the mountains, Cameron Highlands experience cooler weather and is known for its tea plantations, hiking trails, waterfalls, lakes, mossy forests, etc.

The main town in Cameron Highlands is Tanah Rata, your bus will drop you off here and you will find a ton of hotels and restaurant in Tanah Rata.

Some of the best things in Cameron Highlands include hiking the Jungle Trails , visiting Boh Tea Estate and strawberry farms , walking through the Mossy Forest , visiting local tribe villages , butterfly farms and lavender gardens .

You can ask your hotel to book you a taxi, hike around, or take a tour (and explore other parts by taxi or walking) to explore Cameron Highlands. I really loved the tea plantation and Cameron Highlands is probably my favorite area in Malaysia.

Day 8 – 10: Penang

From Cameron Highlands, you can take a 4-5 hour bus ride to the food capital of Malaysia, Penang.

Penang is the birthplace of Malaysian Street Food and is one of the best places to eat in Malaysia. Therefore you can bet there will be a lot of eating, cooking classes and food tours you can do in Penang.

But food is not the only thing you will find in Penang, you will also find arts, temples, historical houses, national park and beach.

Start your Panang journey exploring the UNESCO old town of George Town . You may have seen beautiful murals of George Town all over Instagram, and here is where you will find them. Wander around the old town of George Town is one of the best ways to discover beautiful street arts and murals.

As you explore George Town, don’t forget to check out Chew Jetty , the colorful Penang Little India , Pinang Peranakan Mansion , Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower , Fort Cornwallis , and Chulia St , known for its street food and hawker stalls.

If you have time, go up the TOP Penang to enjoy a bird’s eye view of Penang Island.

Another popular destination in Penang is Penang Hill , where you can enjoy some hiking (or taking the funicular) up to the 360 degree observation deck for an amazing view of Penang and the surrounding sceneries.

There are restaurants, a gallery, eco-tourism discovery center, temple and other attractions to check out at Penang Hill.

Near Penang Hill is Kek Lok Si Temple , a colorful hilltop Buddhist temple. It is one of the most important temples to visit in Penang. You also get beautiful view of the city from this temple. You can also visit Penang Botanic Gardens if you have time.

Other things to do in Penang include visiting Fruit Farms or spend a day in Penang National Park for some hiking, canopy walk and beach.

Day 11 – 14: Redang Island or Langkawi

When you are done with urban and forest and nature, it is time to move to the beach. Malaysia has really amazing beach and I dare say the best beach I have ever been to was in Malaysia.

For beach you have two options. If you want to minimize travel time then you can visit the famous Langkawi , an archipelago off Malaysia’s northwest coast.

If you want to avoid the crowd and go somewhere different (and perhaps more pristine), then make your way across Malaysia to the west side of the country to go to Redang Island .

Langkawi is easy to reach from Penang, you can take an one hour flight or 3 hour ferry from Georgetown.

Redang Island requires either a flight (via KL) or a long distance bus and ferry which pretty much takes the entire day.

You can’t really go wrong with either option but I really do think Redang Island has a much more pristine beach . Redang Island is a lot smaller than Langkawi so Langkawi has more variety in terms of accommodations, restaurants and things to do. But if you just want to relax on an amazing beach and do some snorkeling then Redang Island is the obvious winner.

Southeast Asia Itinerary #3: Off the Beaten Path (Laos & Northern Vietnam)

Day 1 – 3 : Luang Prabang Day 4 : Vientiane Day 5 : Hanoi Day 6- 7 : Halong Bay Day 8 – 10 : Ha Giang or Sapa Day 11 – 13 : Cao Bang Day 14 : Hanoi

If you want to explore places that are not as frequented by visitors, then Laos and Northern Vietnam would be a good choice.

You will be able to to enjoy some unspoiled nature and have a more authentic experience.

Day 1 – 3: Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is the ancient capital of Laos and later became a French colony. In Luang Prabang you will find a mixture of traditional Lao and French influenced architecture.

Ever since its opening up for tourism in 1989, Luang Prabang has become an unique destination in Southeast Asia. It is not as famous or popular as many other Southeast Asian cities but you will find an even more interesting experience.

Luang Prabang is now an UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the old town, you will find beautiful temples such as Wat Xiengthong , Wat Mai , Wat Sensoukharam , visit the Royal Palace museum , participate in an Alms Giving Ceremony (starting at 5:30am), chill at a cafe by the Mekong River, check out food in the Night Market , and ride a Mekong River cruise to enjoy the sunset.

Without leaving Luang Prabang, you should also pay a visit to Mount Phousi . You can climb up for sunset or simply just to enjoy the view from the top.

One of the most famous sites near Luang Prabang is the 3 tiered waterfall, Kuang Si Waterfalls . It is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists and you can take a dip in the turquoise pool.

Other places to visit near Luang Prabang include Tad Sae Waterfall (+ Kayaking tour ), Pak Ou Caves (over 4000 Buddha statues), Nahm Dong Park (nature reserve with zip line and cooking class).

Day 4: Vientiane

Vientiane is the capital city of Laos and similar to Luang Prabang, you will find a mix of French colonial architecture with traditional Laos architecture and temples.

I only suggest one day in Vientiane as a transit center before you go to Vietnam and see some of the best sights.

Since you only have one day in Vientiane, I would suggest checking out the famous gold-covered Buddhist stupa Pha That Luang , followed by a visit to Patuxai Victory Monument , the arc de triomphe of Vientiane.

Other things to check out in Vientiane include the Talat Sao Morning Market , Wat Sisaket , Ho Phrakeo Museum , Wat Si Muang , Chao Anouvong Park and end the night in Vientiane Night Market .

You can take a short evening flight from Vientiane to Hanoi to start your Vietnam adventure next.

Day 5: Hanoi

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and it is probably one of the most charming cities in Vietnam.

You will most likely stay at and explore the Old Quarter of Hanoi. You can certainly spend longer than a day in Hanoi if you decide to skip on some of the other items on the itinerary.

I do find that although there is a lot to see in Hanoi, I personally prefer to simply walk around Old Quarter, find a cute cafe to try Vietnamese coffee, people watch and try local food.

However, if you do want to take advantage of your first full day in Hanoi, you can certainly check out some of the most famous sites, such as the Train Street , Temple of Literature , Hoan Kiem Lake (and Ngoc Son Temple ), the night market , Ta Hien Beer Street (super lively at night).

Again, I think the charm of Hanoi is really to relax, enjoy coffee and food and people watch!

Best Tours to Take in Hanoi Given your limited time in Hanoi, if you want to experience Hanoi in an authentic way, there are a few tours you should take! Food Tour is something you simply cannot miss when visiting Hanoi! Want to try all the local food and fruits? This is the best tour for foodies. If you want to see the major sites in Hanoi and don’t want to bother with taking a Grab, then you would really enjoy this half day tour of Hanoi to visit all the famous sites I mentioned above.

Day 6- 7: Halong Bay

If this is your time in Vietnam, then one of the must-do activities near Hanoi is to do a Halong Bay cruise.

There are day cruises, 2 day 1 night cruises as well as 3 day 2 night cruises. If you just want a taste of Halong Bay while enjoying a relaxing holiday after the hustling and bustling of Hanoi, then 2 day 1 night Halong Bay cruise is the perfect choice.

There are cruises for every budget, some can be as cheap as $100 and some are as expensive as $1000+ a room per night.

Some of the most luxurious Halong Bay cruises now include  Emperor Cruise ,  Orchid Cruise ,  Stellar of the Sea Cruise ,  Heritage Cruise . These cruises have spacious rooms, balconies, beautiful bathtub with floor to ceiling windows, and incredible service and food.

A typical 2 day 1 night Halong Bay Cruise itinerary include the following:

Day 1 of Halong Bay Cruise

• 8am: pick up from Hanoi
• 12pm: boarding the cruise
• 1-2pm: lunch
• 2-4pm: activities (kayaking, cave, small hike, swimming, etc – every cruise is slightly different)
• 4-6pm: happy hours
• 6pm: Dinner
• 7-9pm: Squid fishing

Day 2 of Halong Bay Cruise

• 6-7am: Tai Chi & Cooking class
• 8am: Breakfast
• 9am: Kayaking
• 10:30am: back on shore to check out
• 3pm: Back in Hanoi

Once you are back in Hanoi, you can continue your sightseeing before taking a sleeper bus to Ha Giang.

See my complete Halong Bay Cruise Guide to decide if it’s worth taking a Halong Bay cruise.

Day 8 – 10: Ha Giang or Sapa

You may have seen photos of beautiful rice terraces in Vietnam, in fact they are the main reason why I decided to go to Northern Vietnam!

Most people may have heard of Sapa, known for its rice terrace, but did you know that there are other places in Northern Vietnam that have beautiful rice terrace without the crowd? Ha Giang is one of the off the beaten track places in Northern Vietnam that is known for its dramatic landscape and rice terrace.

If you prefer to go to a place that has a more established tourist infrastructure , then you probably will like Sapa . But if you prefer a more quiet, less touristy but still beautiful place to see rice terrace, then I would highly recommend Ha Giang .

Both Sapa and Ha Giang require you to depart from Hanoi. For Sapa you can take an overnight train or sleeper bus from Hanoi. To get to Ha Giang you will need to take a bus (day time or overnight). You can book transportation from Hanoi to Sapa or Ha Giang on 12go .

If you decide to go to Ha Giang, the most famous thing to do there is the Ha Giang Loop (best done on the back of a motorbike) , which requires 3 days minimum.

During the 3-5 days you spend on the Ha Giang Loop, you will come across many different villages, rice paddies, tea fields, waterfalls, caves and view points. You will most likely be staying at homestay at different villages during your Ha Giang Loop ride.

If this does not sound appealing to you or you cannot ride a motorbike or just don’t have the time, then Sapa may be a better option for you than Ha Giang.

Sapa has gained its popularity among tourists in the recent years. It has developed so fast that you will find many tour groups (and individual tourists) everywhere in Sapa.

3 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Sapa if you are thinking about trekking.

If you are taking an overnight train or sleeper bus from Hanoi, you will arrive early in the morning in Lao Cai (train station) or Sapa town. You can spend the first day visiting Cat Cat Village and Fansipan , the highest peak Vietnam. I recommend visiting Fansipan later in the day as it is more likely to become clear but check the weather forecast before you go.

On the 2nd day of your Sapa trip, you can do two day one night trekking with a guide . During trekking you will have an opportunity to trek in the rice terrace, visit Hmong villages, do an overnight stay at a homestay, visit bamboo forest and waterfalls before coming back to Sapa on the third day.

Or alternatively you can do a one day trekking and spend day 3 explore the various photo spots in Sapa Town .

Take an afternoon bus back to Hanoi on the third day.

Day 11 – 13: Cao Bang

Cao Bang is located in northern Vietnam, on the border of Vietnam and China. It is most famous for the Ban Gioc Waterfall, a tiered waterfall that is located within both Vietnam and China.

If you visited Ha Giang, you can travel from Ha Giang directly to Cao Bang by motorcycle albeit it is a long ride.

If you went to Sapa, then you will have to return to Hanoi first and then travel by bus or taxi from Hanoi to Cao Bang. It is about a 6-8 hour drive from Hanoi to Cao Bang and best done on an overnight sleeper bus (this means you can explore Hanoi during the day!).

Some of the best things to do in Cao Bang include Ban Gioc Waterfall , Nguom Ngao Cave (Tiger Cave), drive or hike to see the Me Pia Pass , check out Cao Bang city center , go to other smaller waterfalls and visit Mat Than Mountain .

If you prefer the convenience of having a tour instead of taking sleeper buses, you can book a 2 day one night tour to Cao Bang from Hanoi and not have to worry about transportation.

Day 14: Hanoi or Ninh Binh

Depending on how long you spend in Cao Bang, on your last day of this 14 day Southeast Asia itinerary, you can either spend the day in Hanoi or do a day trip to Ninh Binh (assuming you do not have a flight to catch).

If you decide to stay and explore Hanoi, you can check out the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum , Quan Thanh Temple , Imperial Citadel , One Pillar Pagoda and Hanoi Opera House .

If you are really ambitious, you can do a day trip to Ninh Binh, one of the most beautiful places in Northern Vietnam in my opinion.

Ninh Binh is known as Ha Long Bay on land and it is not hard to see why people have Ninh Binh high on their list. You will find limestone peaks, rice paddies, river valleys and ancient pagodas in Ninh Binh.

Like this dress? You can purchase it on Etsy .

Some of the best places to see in Ninh Binh in one day include Mua Cave , Bich Dong Pagoda , Tam Coc Boat Ride . If you have more time, you can check out Bai Dinh Pagoda and the 3 hour Trang An Boat Ride but you won’t be able to do everything I mentioned here in one day.

If you decide to go to Ninh Binh without a tour, you can take an early morning bus or luxury van and rent a scooter or a private taxi to get around Ninh Binh.

Alternatively, you can take this tour to see Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Mua Cave, Bich Dong Pagoda and take the Tam Coc boat ride.

Or if you want something different, this tour  will take you to Bai Dinh Pagoda, Mua Cave and Trang An Boat Ride.

No matter what you choose, you will be blown away by the beauty of Northern Vietnam.

Southeast Asia Itinerary #4: Flavor of Everything (Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam)

Day 1 – 3 : Bangkok Day 4 – 6 : Phuket & Islands Day 7 – 9 : Angkor Wat Day 10 – 12 : Hoi An Day 12 – 14 : Hue

If you really cannot decide where to go in Southeast Asia for 2 weeks, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. We will do everything.

Day 1 – 3: Bangkok

Fly into Thailand and start your 14 day Southeast Asia adventure in Bangkok.

Some of the best temples to check out in Bangkok include Wat Pho , the Temple of Emerald Buddha , Golden Mount Temple (Wat Saket), Wat Traimit , Wat Arun and Wat Paknam (featuring a towering stupa).

Other sites not to be missed in Bangkok is the Grand Palace , river cruise , China Town , Lhong 1919 , Khao San Road . Checking out fancy shopping centers like ICON Siam and Siam Paragon , grabbing a drink at rooftop bars and getting a Thai Massage are all unforgettable experiences to have in Bangkok.

You can also do day trips outside of Bangkok to the floating market (or combine with Maeklong Railway Market ), Ancient City , Bubble in the Forest Cafe if you want the instagram shot, and visit temples in Ayutthaya .

Most tours and day trips from Bangkok are included in the Bangkok Explorer Pass .

Day 4 – 6: Phuket & Islands

After visiting the lively Bangkok, it is time to fly to the islands and relax.

Whether you spend all 3 days in Phuket and do day trips to Maya Bay and James Bond Island or stay on Phi Phi or Krabi, you will have a good time.

Day 7-9: Angkor Wat

You really cannot go to Southeast Asia without stopping by Angkor Wat, one of the most famous archaeological remains in Southeast Asia.

Angkor Wat is a large temple complex built by King Suryavarman II in the 12th Century. In fact it is the largest religious monument in the world as it occupies more than 400 acres.

It is the top tourist attraction in Cambodia and it’s not hard to see why. Its historical and religious significance, beautiful architecture and the intricate stone carving are all reasons to visit.

You will need to fly into Siem Reap in order to access Angkor Wat.

Although Angkor Wat is the main attraction in Siem Reap, there are other things to do before your big day in Angkor Wat. The day before you can do a cooking class , stop by Angkor National Museum , visit one of the temples for sunsets (I recommend Pre Rup or Phnom Bakheng ) and grab a drink on Pub Street and get a masage.

You will need entrance ticket for Angkor Wat , and they are either 1 day ($37), 3 days ($62) or 7 days ticket ($72). Unless you plan to see Angkor Wat 3 days in a row, I think 1 day ticket is enough. You can even visit Phnom Bakheng for sunset the day before without having to buy another Angkor Wat ticket.

Angkor Wat will take the whole day to visit and sunrise at Angkor Wat is spectacular. You will need to go super early to get the best spot. Be sure to buy the Angkor Wat ticket ahead of time before your visit if you want to go for sunrise.

You can visit Angkor Wat by yourself or get a guide . We got a guide and it was very useful to hear the stories and histories of the various spots in Angkor Wat and we saw other temples in the complex as well.

Besides Angkor Wat, other things you can do in and near Siem Reap include visiting a floating village , Kulen Mountain National Park , Kok Ker & Beng Mealea temple , and watch a Cambodian circus.

Day 10 – 12: Hoi An

After visiting Angkor Wat, you will head to Da Nang, Vietnam.

Da Nang is the gateway to Central Vietnam and given the time restraint, you will visit two of the most famous cities in Central Vietnam.

First stop is Hoi An, an UNESCO World Heritage Old Town about an hour by car from Da Nang.

Hoi An is a well preserved ancient town and in the old town, you will find streets lined with lanterns, historical monuments, museums, shops, restaurants and most importantly, tailors!

With only 2 days in Hoi An, you will have plenty of time to explore the old town center; some of the best things to do and see in Hoi An ancient town include Japanese Covered Bridge , Old Houses of Tan Ky , Ba Mu Temple , Cantoneses Assembly Hall , Phac Hat Pagoda , Hoi Quan Phuoc Kien , Hoi An night market.

Hoi An is known for their tailors , so you can literally get a dress custom made for you within 24 hours. At night it is also really nice to walk around to see all the lanterns lit up or take a 20 minute boat ride on Thu Bon River.

If you do end up with more time in Hoi An, you can visit the beach, do a coconut boat tour , visit historical monument in My Son , do a day trip to Ba Na Hills for the Golden Bridge or take a day trip to Cham Islands .

Read Next : My complete Hoi An Itinerary and Travel Guide

Day 12 – 14: Hue

Another important city to visit in central Vietnam is Huế, the ancient Imperial City of Vietnam. So you can expect to find imperial palaces and emperors’ tombs in Hue.

You can take a bus or private taxi from Hoi An to Hue.

With 1.5 to 2 days in Hue, you can actually see all the best Hue tourist attractions.

Start your Hue adventure at the Imperial Citadel , the former residence of the imperial family. If there is time, stop by Thien Mu Pagoda and check out Dong Ba Market by Perfume River.

The next day you can start early to first visit the Thuy Tien Lake Abandoned Water Park if you want to grab a quick Instagram worthy photo.

Then you can go tomb hopping as there are numerous tombs all around Hue. The 3 best ones that I’d recommend visiting are tombs of Emperor Khai Dinh , Emperor Minh Mang , and Emperor Tu Duc . If you have time, you can also see the tomb of Emperor Gia Long .

If you want to save money on entrance fee, there are combo tickets you can buy at each of the location instead of buying individual tickets.

It’s best to rent a scooter to ride around Hue or hire a private taxi. Most of the tombs are located outside of the city itself so it would be difficult to try to use Grab to get a car when you are out there.

See my detailed 2 day Hue itinerary on what to do and eat in Hue , Vietnam.

Useful Resources to Plan Southeast Asia Itinerary

For transportation within Southeast Asia

• 12go for train and bus booking
• Grab app for getting taxis

For hotel booking within Southeast Asia

• Booking.com or Agoda are the best resources for booking hotels
• Hostelworld is great for booking hostels

For booking tours within Southeast Asia

• Klook : Singapore based tour booking website with the most number of tours and budget prices
• Getyourguide and Viator are also good websites to book tours

Other Practical Things to Know Before You Go to Southeast Asia

• Be sure to check visa requirements for the different countries in Southeast Asia, such as Vietnam (read my guide on how to get a Vietnam E-Visa )
• It is best to take a no-fee ATM card (like the ones from Charles Schwab if you are American or Wise Card or Revolut no fee ATM cards for non-Americans) and take out cash from local ATMs to get the best exchange rate
• Cash is king; even though most hotels take credit cards, many restaurants, vendors and attractions only take cash
• Download and set up Grab app before you leave, it is the Uber of Southeast Asia
• Download Whatsapp, it is the primary way to communicate with hotels, train/ cruise companies in Southeast Asia
• You can buy sim cards at the airports for very cheap, but most may have a daily limit of how much data you can use
• Be sure to have Plug Adapter when you go to Southeast Asia
• You can buy most necessities in Southeast Asia (like toiletry, clothes, bug spray, etc) to save luggage space
• You should definitely get an external battery for your phone especially if you take photos and videos on your phone.
• Food poisoning could happen so be sure to eat at clean and legit restaurants and well cooked food; avoid ice if possible and buy bottled water (no tap water!)
• Have bug spray with you at all times, the mosquitoes can be vicious if you go outside of winter months
• Even though Southeast Asia is generally hot, if you are going to mountainous region, be sure to have layers with you

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