cheapest travel southeast asia

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What is the cheapest country in southeast asia travel guide 2024.

Table of Contents

Trying to work out the cheapest country in Southeast Asia for travel in 2024? You’ve come to the best place. In this article we will compare the main Southeast Asian countries in terms of food, accommodation and transport prices. We have traveled all of these counties on a budget to give you accurate, reliable and up to date information. If you can get cheap flights then southeast asia is one of the best choices for a low budget tropical trip. But which country is best?

Southeast Asia is packed with natural beauty, great food, beautiful beaches and adventure. However, prices in southeast asia depend massively on your country, area and your itinerary. The quality also varies massively from country to country. Some countries are cheap and not that nice. Other countries are more expensive and still not very nice. And yet other countries are cheap and amazing. While other countries are expensive and not that nice. Inside knowledge is everything.

Cheapest country in Southeast Asia Disclaimer

The prices are averages to give you a rough feel for the country. The prices in this article reflect an “easy to find” lowest end. Super savvy travellers may be able to find even lower prices. And anyone can find prices higher than these. Also, budget looks very different between countries. Some countries a low budget goes a long way. In other countries you need to be ready to rough it. In this article we will try and give you a feel for what you will get for your money in each country. 

Go light & go budget – Don’t miss our guide on how to travel with just a backpack

We have tried to give you an average for each country. Prices can vary lots within a country. For example, rural Philippines is relatively cheap. But the capital city and tourist spots like El Nido are surprisingly expensive. 

Use BOOKING.COM or AGODA to find cheap hotel deals in Southeast Asia

Comparison – the cheapest country in Southeast Asia

You may be interested in our guide How to Travel Thailand for under £20 per day

The countries earlier in the list are cheaper on average, you get more for your money at the low budget end AND cheap food, accommodation and transport are more readily available. Further down the list average prices are higher, the quality of the low budget end may be lower and it is harder to find cheap food, accommodation and transport. 

A few tips for budget travel in Southeast Asia

If you’re trying to find the cheapest country in Southeast Asia – it all depends on how you travel. Here are some of our top super savvy tips for budget travel in Southeast Asia: 

• Get off the beaten track – try to travel away from the tourist spots and visit some really local towns and villages.
• Eat local street food and snacks – street food is generally cheap, tasty and readily available in Southeast Asia.
• Travel overland – take local buses. Travel around Southeast Asia overland is generally very cheap. Try to buy your tickets at the bus station rather than booking in advance. For local shared buses remember to barter. 
• Find cheap accommodation using an online booking website. Then contact the cheapest hotels directly on Facebook and try to negotiate a deal for booking directly. 
• If you have lots of places to visit use motorbike rental or local buses to get around
• Remember prices are always flexible. Barter to get the best prices – keep it friendly and positive. You can barter for transport, accommodation and also you can barter for products in markets. 
• Research your activities. Work out what you really want to do and then price up the cheapest options. Choose countries that are cheap for your preferred activities. 
• Avoid pre-book tours. These can be quite expensive (with some exceptions). Where possible try to do things independently. If you do need to take a tour book through local travel agents. Always shop around and barter. 

Don’t miss our 10 day Vietnam itinerary

Vietnam may be the cheapest country in Southeast Asia. Cheap food, drinks, accommodation and transport are easy to find. Vietnam is also packed with natural beauty, fascinating culture and adventurous activities. Many travellers love Vietnam and refer to it as one of their favourite destinations. Before we go on, it is worth being aware that there can be a scammy culture in some tourist areas of Vietnam. Vietnamese people are generally very friendly and welcoming. Here is why we think Vietnam may well be the cheapest country in Southeast Asia:

Cheap food in Vietnam

Street food for example typically ranges in price from 20,000 – 60,000 VND (£0.70 – £2.00). The most common cheap street food in Vietnam are Pho Soups – noodle soup with chicken, veggies and stock. Another very popular cheap food in Vietnam is Bahn Mi – french style baguettes packed with pickled veggies, meat, egg and sauces. You can also find rice dishes and BBQ. Pork is very popular. Fresh fruit is widespread and it is easy to find fruit shakes. Oh yeah, and it would be wrong not to mention the amazing Vietnamese coffees too. It’s not just the price of the food that we love in Vietnam. We also love the availability of food. Cheap food is everywhere. Good quality, tasty, healthy and varied. 

Don’t miss our Hanoi streetfood guide

Cheap rooms in Vietnam

It is also very easy to find cheap rooms in Vietnam. If you’re on a really tight budget expect to pay around £5 per night for a simple room (150,000 VND). However, you will need to hunt around for rooms this cheap and may need to compromise a little. If you’re able to budget around £10 – £15 per night you money will go along way in Vietnam. You will often have lots of choice and may be able to find rooms with a lot of character and even features like swimming pools. Some rooms may include breakfast with your room – but we were not super impressed with this. 

Cheap transport in Vietnam

Transport in Vietnam is very cheap and pretty good for the money. You can use Grab and Gojek to book taxis in most of the big towns and cities around Vietnam. These apps allow you to get cheap and convient taxis. Expect to pay aound 30,000 – 90,000VND (£1 – £3) for short taxi rides. There are also good local bus systems in most of the bigger towns and cities. Expect to pay around £10 – £20 for long bus journeys. We we’re very impressed with the price and quality of a VIP sleeper bus in Vietnam. There are private capsules with surprisingly comfortable bedding. There are also sleeper train options too. 

Don’t miss our 10 day Thailand itinerary

In terms of being cheap and amazing Thailand is very similar to Vietnam. Depending how you travel and what you do, Thailand could also lay claim to being the cheapest country in Southeast Asia. Thailand is slightly more developed with more tourist destinations – making it slightly more expensive on average. However, it is very easy to get off the beaten track and find fantastic cheap food, accommodation and transport in Thailand. In general, the north of Thailand is cheaper than the south. So if you’re on a tight budget aim for Chiang Mai and Chaing Rai. On the other hand, Phuket and the islands in the south tend to be more expensive. 

Don’t miss our FULL break down – what is the cost of a budget trip to Thailand ?

Cheap food in Thailand

If you’re looking for the cheapest country in Southeast Asia Thailand may be it. Food in Thailand is readily avaiable all over the place and it is very cheap. Most street food ranges between 50 – 100 baht (£1 – 2). Cheap food in Thailand is tasty, healthy and varied. Whether you want Pad Thai, papaya salad, BBQ chicken and sticky rice. Most street food in Thailand is very fresh and the quality is high. In some destinations it is very easy to find fresh seafood. For example, when we lived in Koh Phangan one of our regular family favourites was a large BBQ fresh fish for around 100 – 150 baht, sufficent to feed our hungry little family. We also love the abundance of Seven Eleven shops in Thailand. These convenience stores provide affordable snacks such as sushi, onigiri, toasted cheese sandwiches and much more. Cheap and readily available food really is one of the massive advantages of travelling Thailand.  

Cheap rooms in Thailand

It is easy to find budget rooms in Thailand. If you are travelling on a very tight budget you can often find rooms for around 250baht (£5) for a simple fan room. However, this can be more challenging in touristy destinations. If you’re in a tourist hotspot, budget rooms generally start around 500 baht (£10). Some budget rooms in Thailand can be pretty rough. For example, it may be a grubby wooden room. Some rooms may lack windows and natural light. In other cases you may see mold. And of course you can always expect some creepy crawlies as fellow roommates. If your able to spend around £10 – £20 for a room in Thailand you money goes quite far. You can normally get a clean A.C. room with comfortable bedding and in a nice location. 

Cheap transport in Thailand

Transport in Thailand is very cheap. In cities like Bangkok you can get taxis using the Grab or Bolt app. Alternatively flag a taxi at the side of the road and ask them to use the meter. Short taxi rides around the city normally cost £1-2. Taxis are actually cheaper than tuk tuks in Thailand.

Many areas of Thailand also have shared buses called songthaws (these normally cost around 10 – 30 baht (less than £1). Always check the price before you jump in. It is also cheap to travel around Thailand. It normally costs around £10 – £30 for long distance buses or trains around the country. If you can, we always recommend booking trains a few days early and spash out for a first class sleeper cabin. 

Deciding between Thailand and Cambodia? – Don’t miss our Full Guide – Which country is best to visit Cambodia or Thailand?

3 Indonesia

Don’t miss our one week Bali itinerary

Indonesia is one of the cheapest countries in the world. Again, depending where you go and how you travel, Indonesia may well be the cheapest country in southeast Asia for travel. It is also a top destination for beaches, islands and diving. Although Indonesia is super cheap, it is quite an intrepid and under-developed country. On the other hand, some of the tourist hubs offer a lot for your money. For example, prices in Bali are higher than other areas of Indonesia but your money goes a long way in Bali. We will come back to that. 

Cheap food in Indonesia

Food in Indonesia is very cheap and readily available. Indonesian street food is very tasty and normally costs around  20,000 – 40,000 IDR (roughly £1 – £2). Cheap food is very easy to find. One of the most popular street food dishes in Indonesia is Nasi Champur (Malay for mixed rice). Nasi Champur is a mix of different curries, veggies, meat served with rice. If you find yourself in a touristy spot in Indonesia you can find an impressive range of international cuisine. The prices for the quality are very impressive. For example, in Bali you can find things like smoothie bowls packed with fresh fruit for around 40,000IDR (roughly £2). You can also find Italian food, middle eastern food and Japanese food. The quality is very high for the price. 

Cheap rooms in Indonesia

Accommodation in Indonesia is very cheap. You can normally find rooms for around 100,000IDR (roughly £5) at the cheapest end. It is easy to find budget rooms in Indonesia. Cheap rooms are pretty basic. Expect strangely hard or spongy bedding, fan rooms and a lack of hyigene. If you are able to pay a little more money for a room in Indonesia you money will go a long way. For example, if you pay around £20 on the touristy Gilli Islands, you can stay in a very nice hotel with outdoor swimming pool and a buffet breakfast on the beach. 

Cheap transport in Indonesia

Transport in Indonesia is also very cheap. You can use the Grab taxi app to book taxis. A short ride is likely to cost 20,000 – 60,000IDR (roughly £1.00 – £3.00). You can also find buses in Indonesia. Alternatively, consider motorbike rental. Something to be aware of if you are travelling further around Indonesia. Boat transfers between the islands could add up if you are travelling a long way. 

Laos is a cheap and lovely country to travel. Being slightly off the beaten track Laos has less options if you are looking to splash out and enjoy luxury hotels and International comforts. However, Laos does offer cheap and tasty food and some amazing activities. And it is still amongst the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia. 

Cheap food in Laos

Like most counties in southeast Asia Laos is packed with an abundance of cheap and affordable street food. Most dishes range between £1 – £2 in price (This is roughly 20,000 LAK – 40,000 LAK in the local currency) Food is cheap and widely available. The quality and variety of food in Laos is pretty good. Typically you can find BBQ food (sausage, chicken and pork) sticky rice, veggies, noodles and soup.

Cheap rooms in Laos

Budget rooms in Laos typically start at around £6 per night (or roughly 130,000 LAK). Budget rooms are basic. Normally you can expect to have fan rooms, and cheap rooms are often constructed from wood and cheap materials. Expect hard beds, rough bedding and the occasional room with mosquito nets. The cheapest rooms are not super easy to find in Laos – not many rooms at the lowest budget end. Around £10 – £15 is more typical for cheap rooms in Laos.

Transport in Laos

Transport in Laos is pretty cheap and consistent with other countries in southeast Asia. For example, you can take local taxi journeys for around £1 – £3. If you’re travelling further it is likely to cost around £10 – £15 for intercity bus journeys (200,000 LAK – 30,000 LAK). Laos is less developed than Thailand so transport is a little less reliable and there is less of an established transportation system.

Cambodia is one of the cheapest countries in the world – but not the cheapest country in southeast Asia to travel. Most people visit Cambodia to see the famous temples near Siem Reap (Angkor Wat), Phnom Pehn (the capital city) or the islands in the south. These areas are more expensive for food, accommodation and transport. However, the rural villages of Cambodia are very cheap. There is a lot of poverty in Cambodia and many ways to help. If you’re travelling on a tight budget Cambodia can be very cheap – but you need to be savvy and shop around. Also budget in Cambodia is rough. 

Cheap food in Cambodia

Street food in Cambodia generally costs between £1 – £2.50. At the cheapest end you can normally find greasy noodles, rice and fish or rice and sausage. Cheap street food in Cambodia is not that tasty compared to other southeast Asian countries. If you’re in one of the tourist spots like Siem Reap, there is plenty of more expensive international food available. Most international dishes in Cambodia cost £3 – £8. The quality of international food in Cambodia is surprisingly good. 

Cheap rooms in Cambodia

Cheap rooms in Cambodia cost £5 – £10 but it is hard to find cheap rooms. Outside of the tourist hotspots there is not a wide variety of accommodation availble. In the tourist areas there are more options to choose from but accommodation is more expensive. If your budget is £10 – £20 per night you can find pretty good rooms with air conditioning. 

Cheap transport in Cambodia

Transport in Cambodia is pretty cheap. Expect to pay around $1 – $3 for short tuk tuk rides around town (£0.7 – £2.50). You can generally hire a tuk tuk driver for $10 – $20 per day depending on the distance.  It normally costs $10 – $20 for long distance bus journeys around the country (roughly £7 – £15).

6 Philippines

We love the Philippines. Beautiful beaches, stunning islands, amazing lagoons, crystal clear waters.This stunning country is packed with adventure and breathtaking beauty. If you get a chance to visit the Philippines we highly recommend it. We love the Philippines but this is definitely not the cheapest country in southeast Asia. The capital city Manila is actually pretty expensive for food, accommodation and transport. Popular tourist spots like El Nido (Palawan) are also very expensive – prices are two or three times higher than other parts of the Philippines. The best way to do the Philippines on a budget is to travel off the beaten track and stay in small villages. Visit places that other people don’t. 

Cheap food in the Philippines

Food in the Philippines is very cheap. You can find street food for around 50 peso – 200 peso 

(£0.70 – £3). Some of the cheapest streetfood in the Philippines is not that nice. The spices tend to be quite mellow and some of the dishes can be quite greasy. Watch out for bakeries. You can often buy fresh cheap baked goods in the Philippines for 30 pesos (around £0.50). Cheap street food is hard to find in tourist areas. In El Nido the cheapest meals cost around 200 pesos (around £3). Many places cost much more. International cuisine is similar to westen prices. Expect to pay 700 pesos (roughly £10) or more for a pizza. One thing is fantastic in the Philippines – Seafood! Make sure you get a seafood platter. You can find amazing fresh seafood platters for around 700 – 1,000 pesos. This may not be cheap but it is amazing value for money. It is rare to find seafood of this quality at such a low price. 

Accommodation in the Philippines

Rooms in the Philippines are more expensive than other countries in southeast Asia. Expect to pay around £10 – £15 for a budget room. In some areas power supply can be an issue – so expect power cuts. If your guest house does not have a generator this can mean some pretty sweaty nights. Even the cheapest rooms are quite expensive and the quality is low at the budget end. Your money doesn’t go very far in the Philippines compared to other southeast Asian countries. 

Transport in the Philippines 

Transportation in the Philippines is very cheap. Expect to pay around £0.30 – £0.50 for jeeps and tuk tuks. Always agree a price before the journey. The jeeps are shared buses that actually look pretty awesome. Alternatively you can get taxis for around £2 – £3 for short journeys. Taxi drivers in Manila seem to charge a lot and are generally unwilling to use the meter. Some drivers may agree to use the meter if you pay an additional 100 pesos. The grab taxi app is also quite expensive in the Philippines. You can get inter-city buses for around 70 peso in the Philippines. 

Don’t miss our 10 day Sabah itinerary – wildlife, mountains & reef. Alternatively we have a One week Penang itinerary packed with nature, adventure & great food

Malaysia is a stunning country well known for its rich and diverse culture, amazing food and natural beauty. Malaysia offers beaches, islands, beautiful waters and wild jungles. We love Malaysia, and highly recommend it. However, it is one of the more expensive countries in Southeast Asia. Malaysia has a dual pricing system. Foreigners are often charged 3 or 4 times more than locals for activities. This can really add up if you’re travelling Malaysia. Also national parks are increasingly charging higher entrance fees. Combined with high price accommodation, this makes Malaysia relatively expensive. Overall Malaysia is definitely not the cheapest country in Southeast Asia.

Cheap food in Malaysia

Malaysia has an abundance of street food. The flavors are amazing – but the food is often fried and not healthy. Also, Malaysia does not have a lot of fresh fruit or salads. Seafood tends to be quite expensive (except for a few places like islands). Food is relatively cheap in Malaysia. The cheapest street food in Malaysia is Nasi Lemak (rice parcels served in Banana leaf). Nasi Lemak is rice boiled in coconut milk and is normally served with fish, chicken, egg and a spicy sambal sauce. You can often find Nasi Lemak for around RM2 (roughly £0.40). You can find some small dishes for around RM5 (or £1) in Malaysia. Most street food costs RM10 – RM20 (approximately £2 – £4).

Find out about the BEST hawkers in Penang

Cheap rooms in Malaysia

Accommodation is relatively expensive in Malaysia. The cheapest rooms in Malaysia typically range between £10 – £15. At these low prices accommodation tends to be pretty basic. Cheap rooms are quite hard to find in Malaysia and the quality is pretty low. Even when you pay more for a room – places are still not great. Overall we have not been very impressed with accommodation in Malaysia. 

Cheap transport in Malaysia

Transport in Malaysia is pretty cheap and good. For example you can use the Grab taxi app to get local taxis. A short local taxi journey normally costs around £2 – £4. Many places in Malaysia also have bus systems offering cheap local transport. Langkawi is an exception. The cheapest way to get around Langkawi is to find a cheap car rental (around RM60 per day roughly £12). Long distance travel in Malaysia is very cheap. Expect to pay around RM30 – RM40 (around £6 – £8) for long bus journeys. 

Although Malaysia is not cheap overall, it may well be the cheapest country in southeast Asia for long distance bus travel.

Brunei is one of the most expensive countries in Southeast Asia. This small oil rich country is sandwiched between the Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah (Borneo Malaysia). Brunei is a small country and most people only visit for a few days. There is a stilt village, large grand mosque and you can take river cruises. In terms of food and culture, Brunei is quite similar to Malaysia.  

Cheap food in Brunei

If you visit a local market in Brunei you can find cheap street food ranging in price from 1.5BND – 5BND (around £1.00 – £3.00). It is hard to find cheaper street food in Brunei. There are lots of mid range cafes – dishes cost around 5BND  – 10BND (around £3 – £6). The food is similar to Malaysia but less variety. 

Cheap rooms in Brunei

The cheapest rooms in Brunei costs 25 – 30 BDN (around £15 – £20). At these prices the accommodation is reasonable quality. Rooms are generally reasonably clean, comfortable and include air conditioning. 

Cheap transport in Brunei

Transport in Brunei is not too expensive. It costs around 3 BND – 10 BND (around £2 – £6) for a short local taxi ride. Long distance bus journeys cost around £10 – £20. Buses and taxis can be hard to get in Brunei. 

9 Singapore

Singapore is the most expensive countries in Southeast Asia. We do recommend a visit if you get a chance. Singapore is a very unique and fascinating country. Singapore is very developed. The entire country is a large city with malls, shops and conveince stores. There is an extensive metro system connecting the entire country. Singapore has some great attractions too. Don’t miss Kampong Glam, the Jewel at Changi Airport and the iconic Super tree Garden at Nibong island. Singapore prides itself of being clean, efficient and unified as a country.   

Cheap food in Singapore

Relative to other countries in southeast Asia there is not a lot of cheap food in Singapore. The best place to find cheap food in Singapore are the hawker centres. Most dishes cost £1.20 – £5.00 at the hawkers in Singapore. You can also find some cheap cafes around town. Expect to pay around 2-3 SGD for a snack (e.g. steamed buns) and 3 – 8 SGD for a street food meals. International cuisine is relatively expensive. 

Cheap rooms in Singapore

There aren’t really any cheap rooms in Singapore. The cheapest accommodation are the Space Pods (capsule hotels) – these are actually a lot of fun so we do recommend a stay – not just for budget. If you’re looking for a room in Singapore expect to pay at least £20 – £30 (most rooms start at 50 SGD per night). Even the cheapest rooms are quite expensive and the quality is low at the budget end. If you’re travelling on a  low budget Singapore isn’t somewhere to stay for long. It is fascianting – but we only recommend 2-3 days for budget travellers. 

Cheap transport in Singapore

Public transport in Singapore is cheap, efficient and very convenient. The metro system connects all of the main attractions in Singapore. Most journeys cost 1 – 3 SGD (roughly £0.60 – £3.00) for the metro system. It is worth being aware that they do not take cash payments for the metro – but if you have a bank card – it may well be accepted at the gates (just tap and go). We found this surprisingly cheap with a good international card. 

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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22 Cheapest Asian Countries to Visit in 2024

If you’re looking for some of the cheapest Asian countries to visit on your next trip, you have come to the right place!

With 48 countries, Asia is the largest continent in the world, and it’s also my favourite one. This continent is home to some of the world’s friendliest people, tons of beautiful landmarks , interesting cultures and delicious food. Although not all Asian countries are cheap (think about Bhutan, Japan or Singapore), Asia has got plenty of budget-friendly destinations too.

This guide contains some of the best budget destinations in Asia, from popular destinations like Thailand and India to more off-the-beaten-path countries like Bangladesh and Kazakhstan.

Although some of the countries on this list may be slightly more expensive than others, they’re all pretty cheap compared to Europe or North America, for example.

I’ve been living in and travelling through Asia for the last couple of years . As I’m updating this post regularly, I’m keeping my eyes open for the cheapest countries in Asia and how much it costs to travel here.

Cheap Countries to Visit in Asia

It’s good to know that the daily budget, hostel prices and meal prices listed in this post are for backpackers travelling on a shoestring budget (staying in dorms, eating in local restaurants, etc).

How much you will spend depends on your travel style and the activities you want to do. It’s also good to know that capital cities tend to be more expensive.

So, let’s dive right into it! Here are the 22 cheapest countries to travel to in Asia.

Cheap destinations in Southeast Asia

Let’s start with Southeast Asia, a popular backpacking destination full of amazing things to see and do. This part of the continent is home to lush green jungles, sandy beaches, majestic temples and exotic wildlife.

1. Indonesia

Indonesia is one of these incredibly varied destinations I just can’t get enough of. With over 17,000 islands , you could easily spend a lifetime exploring this country alone.

Every island is different and there are more than 300 ethnic groups in the country, each with its own culture and traditions.

Apart from that, you will also find lush green forests, picture-perfect beaches, beautiful volcanoes and much more here. And the best part is that Indonesia is one of the most affordable countries in Asia.

It’s good to know, however, that some islands are cheaper than others . Bali, for example – home to the famous digital nomad and party destination Canggu – is one of the most expensive ones. Sumatra and Java, on the other hand, are some of the cheaper islands.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $20 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $3 Meal price: Around $3

With mesmerizing sights like Ha Long Bay, the Ban Gioc Waterfall, the Mekong Delta , Hà Giang and many, many more, Vietnam is one of the top travel destinations in Asia .

This country is known for its delicious food, mesmerizing landscapes, vibrant culture and some of the most beautiful caves in the world . It’s a place where you will be able to visit sacred temples one day, then see the remnants of the Vietnam War and learn more about its history the next.

As Vietnam is also one of the cheapest Asian countries to visit, it’s the perfect place to head to if you’re looking for an affordable destination with an abundance of places to explore. I travelled around Vietnam solo for two months and had a great time.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $20 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $3,50 Meal price : Around $3

3. Cambodia

When mentioning Cambodia, many people will immediately think about Angkor Wat , the largest and oldest religious monument in the world. After all, watching the sunrise at this immense temple complex is one of these bucket list travel experiences you can’t miss when you’re visiting this country.

But there’s more to Cambodia than Angkor Wat alone. This country is also the perfect place to explore vibrant cities, go diving, relax at the beach, try delicious food, visit salt fields and learn more about the country’s culture and history.

Cambodia is cheaper than its neighbours Vietnam and Thailand, making it one of the cheapest exotic destinations in Southeast Asia.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $18 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $2 Meal price : Around $3

Laos is known for being one of Asia’s most relaxed and laid-back destinations . This is an authentic country with colourful temples, French colonial architecture and breathtaking landscapes.

Here, you will truly feel as if you were stepping back in time. You will get to soak up the country’s rich traditions and savour some of the world’s best food.

From Khone Pabeng , Southeast Asia’s largest waterfall to the city of Luang Prabang with its former royal palaces – Laos is a budget-friendly Asian destination that will make sure to astonish you. This is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a cheap Southeast Asian country that isn’t packed with tourists (yet).

Prices here are pretty similar to, yet slightly cheaper than, neighbouring Cambodia.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $16 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $2 Meal price : Around $2

5. Myanmar (Burma)

Ah, Myanmar – this is one of my favourite travel destinations in the world!

This country’s landscapes are filled with temples and gilded pagodas, and the Burmese are some of the most friendly people in the world.

From the beautiful temples of Bagan to the mountains and caves of Hpa An, there are plenty of beautiful places in Myanmar and this is a country that simply doesn’t disappoint.

The thing I love the most about this country is its authenticity . Myanmar has only been opening up to tourists recently and it hasn’t much been influenced by the globalised world yet.

Although Myanmar is one of the cheapest Asian countries to visit, prices here have increased over the years, especially when it comes to accommodation. It’s good to know that this country is more expensive than countries like Cambodia and Vietnam , for example.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $24 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $6 Meal price : Around $3

6. Thailand

Often nicknamed “The Land of Smiles”, Thailand may just be the most popular stop along the Southeast Asia backpacking route.

This country is known for its glorious beaches, glittering temples, lush green jungle and delicious cuisine. On top of all that, Thailand is a great scuba diving destination too.

This country is easy to travel through and has something to offer to nearly any type of traveller , whether you’re looking for a crazy bucket list adventure , a lazy beach holiday or an all-in vacation.

Although Thailand remains one of the cheapest Asian countries to visit, the cost of travelling here has increased over the years and the Kingdom is slightly more expensive than its neighbours Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos. It’s also good to know that the north of Thailand is cheaper than the south of the country.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $26 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $4 Meal price : Around $4

7. The Philippines

If diving, snorkelling and island hopping sound like your kind of holiday, then The Philippines should be on top of your Asian travel bucket list. This country is home to over 7,000 islands full of tropical white-sand beaches, palm trees and blue lagoons.

And there’s more – swimming in waterfalls , climbing volcanoes, admiring the colonial architecture and visiting rice terraces are just a few of the other highlights of The Philippines.

This country is a bit more expensive than other Southeast Asian destinations but still very affordable compared to Western countries.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $26 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $5 Meal price : Around $3

8. Malaysia

Malaysia is one of the most developed countries in Southeast Asia. It’s also a very diverse destination with towering skyscrapers, countless temples and mosques, stunning nature , beautiful beaches and amazing wildlife.

Although a lot of visitors will spend most of their time in Kuala Lumpur, the capital, Malaysia has much more to offer. From scuba diving and jungle trekking to visiting the famous Batu Caves , this country doesn’t lack activities.

On top of that, Malaysia is one of the cheapest Asian countries to visit (except for alcohol, which is pretty expensive) and quite contrary to what many people think, Malaysia is cheaper than Thailand!

It’s also good to know that thanks to its good infrastructure with high-speed internet, Malaysia is a great destination for digital nomads .

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $25 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $4 Meal price : Around $2

Cheapest South Asian countries to visit

South Asia is my favourite part of the world. This part of the continent is home to the majestic Himalayas, thousands of temples, beautiful jungles and fascinating cultures.

I spent over a year travelling through this part of the world and am still here as I’m writing this.

Nepal is one of my favourite destinations in the world and it’s also one of the most affordable Asian countries to travel to.

With its vibrant culture, lush green jungles and stunning Himalayan Mountains (including Mount Everest ), this country has a lot to offer. If you’re an adventurous type of traveller who also enjoys learning about different cultures, you will LOVE Nepal.

Some other reasons to visit Nepal are that the Nepali are renowned for being some of the friendliest people in the world and that country is full of beautiful landmarks and unforgettable adventures.

When visiting Nepal on a budget, it’s good to know that it is possible to hike and trek in the Himalayas without spending a fortune on a guide. However, this is not recommended for all treks, so it’s advisable to do some research in advance.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $16 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $2 Meal price : Around $2,50

With places like the Taj Mahal and the Hawa Mahal, and states like Goa and Rajasthan , India is one of the top travel destinations in the world.

Not only is India packed with incredibly beautiful landmarks, but it also offers a lot of variation. Not every country offers the possibility to combine mountains, deserts, beaches, jungles and cities in one trip, after all. On top of that, India is huge. I spent over 8 months travelling through this country and there are still so many places left to discover.

One of the things India is best known for is its incredibly rich culture. It was here that Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism and other religions were born. So if cultural or spiritual travel is your thing, India should be on top of your list.

When it comes to the cost of travel in India , it’s good to know that the south of the country is a little more expensive than the north. Still, India is one of the cheapest Asian countries on this list.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $20 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $4 Meal price : Around $2,50

11. Sri Lanka

Often nicknamed “The Teardrop of India”, the country island of Sri Lanka is located in the Indian Ocean. This is a very diverse destination with white sand beaches, a rich culture and beautiful Sri Lankan landmarks .

On top of that, with hikes like Littl e Adam’s Peak , Ella Rock and World’s End, Sri Lanka is also a great place for hiking and nature lovers.

Although Sri Lanka might be small, there’s an incredible amount of things to do in this country. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, adventure seeker, history buff or beach lover, Sri Lanka has got something for you.

I spent 6 weeks exploring this country and, although I’m not much of a beach person, this is a place I would love to go back to. Sti Lanka’s lush green jungles, exotic wildlife and friendly locals stole my heart!

Sri Lanka is less expensive than India, so it’s a very budget-friendly destination where you won’t need to worry about spending too much money.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $16 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $2 Meal price : Around $3,50

12. Bangladesh

If you’re looking for a cheap, off-the-beaten-path destination in Asia, then Bangladesh is the place for you. This country, which borders India and Myanmar, is often skipped by tourists, meaning you will probably have all the tourist sites to yourself.

Bangladesh has got a lot to offer, though. With its numerous archaeological sites, large forests, beautiful beaches and friendly locals, it’s a destination that will surely surprise you. This country is also home to the world’s longest sea beach – Cox’s Bazar – which is 120 km (74,5 mi) long.

I spent a month backpacking in Bangladesh and it was an unforgettable experience! Bangladeshi are some of the most hospitable people in the entire world (along with Pakistanis, #13 on this list) and believe me, travelling here will be memorable!

All in all, Bangladesh is one of the most hospitable and cheapest Asian countries to visit and it’s perfect for those who are looking for a more off-the-beaten-path travel destination.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $20 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $3,50 Meal price : Around $2

13. Pakistan

Pakistan might not be the first destination to think of when you’re planning a trip to Asia, but it is one of my favourite destinations in the world.

With some of the highest mountain peaks in the world, beautiful deserts, untouched beaches and historical cities like Lahore , this is a dream destination for both nature lovers as well as history buffs.

Contrary to the country’s reputation, Pakistan is now – relatively – safe to travel to (although it speaks for itself that you should always be cautious and use your common sense) and it is attracting more and more adventurous tourists.

Pakistan is cheaper than India, which makes it one of the cheapest countries on this list.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $18 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $3,50 Meal price : Around 1,50

Cheapest East Asian countries to visit

East Asia is another fascinating part of the world, and although there are very affordable destinations here, some East Asian countries are pretty expensive.

However, if you know which countries to visit, it’s possible to travel here on a budget. You will find the cheapest East Asian countries below.

With fascinating ancient places like the Terracotta Warriors of Xi’An, the Forbidden City of Beijing, and the famous Great Wall, China is one of these countries you could explore for years on end because there’s so much to see.

One striking thing about China is the contrast between ancient and modern . You will find traditional Chinese architecture on one side of the city and hyper-modern buildings on the other side.

Keep in mind that some places are more expensive than others when you’re visiting China. Shanghai, Bejing and the autonomous region of Macau, for example, are some of the pricier destinations in the country. If you avoid these places and do some research in advance, it is possible to travel to China on a shoestring budget though.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $30 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $3,50 Meal price : Around $4

Taiwan may be pretty small, but this island doesn’t lack beautiful places to visit or interesting things to do.

This country (which is officially called the Republic of China) is home to very diverse landscapes consisting of mountains, beaches, hot springs, waterfalls and more.

If you’re more of a city person, you will love Taipei , the vibrant capital which is known for its modern architecture, traditional temples and food markets.

Although Taiwan is one of the more expensive countries on this list, it’s just slightly more expensive than China and still pretty cheap compared to Western standards.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $28 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $8 Meal price : Around $3

16. Mongolia

Mongolia, landlocked between Russia and China, is a mountainous country with unspoilt nature and unique culture . It’s one of these beautiful, off-the-beaten-path destinations where the tourism industry is still in its early stages.

For many travellers, one of the top experiences to have here is to stay with a nomadic family and learn about their way of life. After all, Mongolia is home to one of the last remaining traditional nomad cultures.

While it is possible to visit Mongolia independently, it’s not the easiest country to travel through if you don’t want to hire a guide or take tours. The reason for this is a lack of transportation to tourist sites. It is possible, however, to rent a jeep in Ulaanbaatar.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $20 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $6 Meal price : Around $3

Cheapest Western Asian countries to visit

This part of Asia is home to some of the world’s most beautiful architecture, and it’s not as explored as say, Southeast Asia.

This being said, Western Asia is more expensive than most other parts of Asia, which is why there aren’t so many Western Asian countries on this list.

One of the things Iran is most famous for is its architecture with gorgeous colours and pretty mosaics. But there’s much more to this country!

If you’re interested in Persian culture and history , for example, this destination will surely astonish you. On top of that, Iran is filled with natural wonders, from mountains and deserts to caves and waterfalls. All in all, Iran has got something to offer to any type of traveller, whether you’re into history, culture, art or nature.

Iran is a country that only started attracting more tourists in the last couple of years and it was gaining popularity among travellers quickly. However, due to the current political situation, tourism in Iran has been declining again.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $25 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $8 Meal price : Around $4

Cheapest Central Asian countries

Central Asia is a relatively unexplored part of the continent that’s home to mesmerizing architecture and some amazing landscapes.

Although this part of Asia is more expensive than Southeast Asia and South Asia, it is home to some pretty affordable destinations.

18. Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is another beautiful, off-the-beaten-path destination with plenty of hidden treasures. This former Soviet Republic is the biggest country in Central Asia .

If you enjoy spending time in nature, then this country full of canyons, mountains, lakes and deserts is the one for you!

Apart from that, Kazakhstan will also astonish you if you enjoy visiting more unusual places. From the futuristic capital, Nur-Sultan to the abandoned seaport of Aralsk, this country is full of unique sights.

The best part is that Kazakhstan is one of these affordable destinations where you won’t need to worry about spending tons of money on your travels.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $22 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $6 Meal price : Around $3

19. Kyrgyzstan

Another great country for lovers of nature and the great outdoors is Kyrgyzstan. With its high mountains, undiscovered canyons and beautiful glaciers, this destination has a lot to offer.

Some of the best cultural things to do here are staying in a yurt, learning about the traditional handicrafts of felt-making and eagle hunting, and learning about the country’s Soviet history. Kyrgyzstan is a country that won’t bore you, as there’s so much to see and do here!

Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan share similar traditions, but it’s good to know that the latter is slightly cheaper.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $22 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $6 Meal price : Around $3,50

20. Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan, the last of the Stans featured on this list, is a little bit more expensive than Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, but it’s still pretty affordable.

This country is home to some amazing Islamic architecture and interesting historical sites . The highlights of Uzbekistan are the medieval cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Kiva, where you can immerse yourself in the country’s history and traditions.

With places like the ship graveyard of the Aral Sea and the ghost town of Angren, Uzbekistan is another affordable destination that will delight you if you enjoy exploring more remote and unusual places.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $25 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $6 Meal price : Around $4

21. Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is a mysterious country that’s often nicknamed “The Land of Fire” due to its large amount of natural gas reserves.

Back in the day, gas often leaked to the surface in Azerbaijan, which resulted in spontaneous fires. Today though, most of these fires have been extinguished, but Yanar Dag is one of the few remaining natural gas fires.

Fire isn’t the only thing Azerbaijan is famous for, though. With its ancient temples, modern capital, mud volcanoes and remote mountain villages, this country is quite diverse. It’s a unique destination that you will fall in love with if you enjoy travelling off the beaten path.

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $30 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at 10$ Meal price : Around $5

22. Armenia

If you’re looking for the cheapest Asian countries to visit on your next trip, you might want to consider heading to Armenia, a small country sandwiched between Georgia, Azerbaijan, Turkey and Iran.

This little-visited country is full of stunning monasteries and churches (over 4.000 in total), vibrant cities and incredible hikes . It’s an underrated destination with plenty of things to discover.

It’s good to know that although Armenia may be geographically located in Asia, culturally, this country leans more towards Europe (though it has Asian influences as well).

Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $16 Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $5 Meal price : Around $7

Asian Countries to Avoid if You’re Travelling on a Budget

If you’re planning on heading to Asia and don’t want to spend a fortune, there are some countries that you will want to avoid.

There may be lots of cheap destinations in Asia, but this continent is also home to some of the most expensive cities in the world.

So if you’re on a tight budget, you will want to avoid the following countries, these are the most expensive countries in Asia:

• South Korea

Check out my post about the cost of travelling in Dubai if you’re curious to know how much it costs to travel here.

Tips to Save Money While Travelling in Asia

Apart from the local prices, how much money you will spend also depends on your travel style.

Travelling on a shoestring budget mostly comes down to planning and researching your destination before heading there and avoiding expensive activities . Capital cities tend to be more expensive, for example, so try not to spend too much time there.

You will save a lot of money by staying in dorms , choosing street food or local restaurants over tourist restaurants and using public transportation , for example.

It’s also good to learn how to haggle and avoid restaurants or shops near tourist attractions , as these tend to be way more expensive.

But even if you’re planning on staying in 5-star hotels and eating out every night, you still won’t spend nearly as much money in these cheap Asian countries as you would in most European countries.

Cheapest Asian Countries: Final Thoughts

I hope that you have found exactly what you were looking for in this list and that it inspires you to travel to Asia. After all, this continent is full of beautiful and affordable destinations.

From popular backpacking destinations like Thailand, Vietnam and Nepal to off-the-beaten-path destinations like Azerbaijan and Bangladesh , Asia has something to offer to every type of traveller.

As I’m living/travelling in Asia at the moment and have been doing this for the last couple of years, I’m keeping my eyes open for the price of each country I visit and am updating this post regularly.

Which of the cheapest Asian countries would you like to visit and which ones have you visited already? Let me know in the comments!

Are you curious to find out what the cheapest countries in the EU are too? Check out this post next: 11 Cheapest EU Countries to Live In

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Hey, Laura! My solo backpacking dreams were itching to be released as soon as I saw your post. Now I can finally get a rough estimate on how much a two-month-long trip in Southeast Asia would cost me. This post has truly been insightful and informative. Thank you for sharing!

Hi Dakota, thank you for the lovely comment, I’m happy to hear that 😊 Asia is wonderfull, I can’t wait to return myself 🤩

Hi Laurie – love your blog post on Asia. Obviously, with Covid, trying to work out destinations is difficult. Maybe things will improve in a few months. The other issue is off course, airfares… From Australia, all the cheap airfares to Asia have dried up thanks to Covid and low cost Airline disruptions. (think Air Asia) . with the exception of Bali, which is like a suburb of Australia !

Hi Lawrence, thank you for your comment! 🙂 I sure hope things will improve soon and that the airfares will go back to normal as well. I haven’t been to Bali myself but it must be a nice place to start exploring Indonesia. 🤩

India is indeed an affordable and budget-friendly destination. I am glad that you added it to the list. The best part is India offers both budget-friendly and luxury stays. I mostly travel via train and public transport, which helps me to save more.

So do I, it’s a great way of saving money! 🙂

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Southeast Asia Discovery: Seasides and Street Food

Our guide made the trip so much better by helping us and tell stories about the places we went to but also just made the tour more fun in general

Bangkok to Singapore: Jungle Hikes & Island Nights

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Bali Intro 12 Day

Had such a great time on the Bali Intro tour. It was very well organised from the beginning and was full of great activities. Hendri was a great guide making everyone feel included and was very knowledgable about the places visited!

Vietnam Intro 12 Day

Loved the 12 day Vietnam itinerary. We saw everything and more! Our guide Adam Case is THE best in the game. 12 days of non stop laughs, knowledge and advice. Can not fault the man ????

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Had such a great time! Our tour guide Josh was excellent! I got see everything I wanted to see on my list to see when visiting Bali.

Bali One Life Adventures - 12 Days

I had a great time on this tour. We did a lot of different activities, saw a lot of places & learned much from the guides. It was a good combination between busy days and relaxed days, which was nice. Nice hotels with lovely people that work there. And everything was super well organized. If you needed help with anything, you could ask the guides and they will help you.

Bali & Beyond

Gema was one of my tour guides, we were stuck in the middle of a typhoon but somehow she always was a bundle of energy keeping so positive which really made the group morale amazing. She always found great alternatives to the activities we were unable to do. I also celebrated my birthday on this trip and the things Gema organised made it one of my favourite birthdays ever. This was my first stop for travelling and my first tru travels tour and I can say I will definitely recommend and book more tours around Asia. Gema you are amazing ????????

Cambodia Adventure

This trip was not what I expected - it was SO much MORE!! I was nervous travelling to a non-english speaking country, as a female, with a teenage daughter in tow, but it has become one of the BEST experiences of my entire life!! The trip was well organised and planned, our tour leader Mony was amazing - he shared his culture and knowledge with us, and was approachable. We met amazing people and created great friendships, while we experienced the true culture and people of Cambodia. There is a lot of travel, but the transport was safe and comfortable, and even with the long hours of travel there were plenty of stops and opportunities to experience and interact with locals, and still time to explore/do activities when we reached our destinations. Use the travel time to get to know the other members of your group better, or watch the world go by - there is plenty to look at! The hotels/guesthouses were mostly what we expected for the price we paid, but some were better! Can't wait for our next trip!!

Wanderlands Bali - 8 Days

This has been an amazing trip from the start till the end. Tim has been very good from before the trip to after, helping with any questions or queries and going beyond. His recommendations have been amazing. The hostels,transport and in between have been very good. The itinerary has been brilliant as well. I wouldn’t have asked for a better tour and group

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Essential Vietnam

We had a terrific guide Binh Bui Van who was very thorough and looked after our group of ten 24/7, We did the trip from Hanoi to the Mekong delta and it was an adventure from day one, Binh explained the history and culture of Vietnam as we went along, we did planes,trains,boats,trekking,bikes, motorbikes kayaks,ate delicious foods and mete a lot of very friendly locals all the time watched over by our guide Binh, He organised us from day one so we had no waiting around going from hotel to a bus or taxi to our next destination, I am 71 and my wife 61 and found no problem doing this trip,which included a 14 km walk to a village in the mountains for a homestay, brilliant. Thank you Binh.

31-Day Southeast Asia Circuit: Epic Adventures Across Four Nations

Kompakte Rundreise durch 4 Länder, ideal um sich einen Überblick zu verschaffen. Viele zusätzliche Aktivitäten werden angeboten, gut durchgeplant inkl. allen Transporten.

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Amazing Vietnam Super Save Package In 11 Days

Well organized. Knowledgeable guides. Saw and learnt a lot. Not too rushed. Met very nice travellers from a variety of countries. All hotels were good not too big or too small. All food was amazing.

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Fantastic of Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand in 16 Days - Halong Bay/ Hoi An/ Siem Reap/ Phuket

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Had an amazing time in Thailand. Loved seeing the elephants. However, if you get some sort of cut on yourself do not go into the mud pit. Unless you want an infection. Chiang Mai- The stars you could see at the treehouse were amazing. Saw many shooting stars even though there wasn't a meteor shower that was going on. Zip-lining was great as there were many zip lines to go on. Our group leader, Mai, was amazing. She was so friendly and cared so much about us. Met a lot of amazing people on this trip. Going to Laos was a hassle with what currency the boarder would take. Make sure when you get American dollars they are crisp and absolutely have no writing on them. No rips either! The slow boat should have only been 1 day long, but I heard Feb. is the last month for that. So good. Suggest getting the hot air balloon ride in Laos. I recommend it because I didn't die. Recommend staying an extra day in Vietnam. You can join in on the group activities, but just pay the fees since the tour is over for you. Some of the hostels aren't great, but that's a review for them. Also, when they say biking is easy that's a lie.

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This was my first time ever travelling without family and it was amazing! One of the best months of my life. Our CEO Tong was brilliant and full of knowledge about where we were going and what we would be doing. He made sure to have enough time for anyone and helped in anyway he could to make things run smoothly for everyone on tour including myself. If you go on this tour, make sure you ask for Tong or (Phanet Tep) as your CEO!

Embarking on the "Jungle Hikes & Island Nights" group journey from Bangkok to Singapore was an adventure of a lifetime, magnificently organized and flawlessly executed. From start to finish, the expedition was a resounding success, thanks to impeccable planning and an itinerary that promised—and delivered—an extraordinary experience. The locations we explored were nothing short of spectacular, offering us a diverse palette of experiences that ranged from the serenity of lush jungles to the vibrant nightlife on picturesque islands. The balance between exhilarating hikes and lively parties was just right, ensuring that every day was filled with new adventures and opportunities to create lasting memories. A significant part of this trip's charm was the fantastic group of fellow travelers I had the fortune to journey with. It's rare to find such a harmonious blend of personalities and backgrounds, but we clicked instantly, transforming a group of strangers into lifelong friends. The camaraderie that developed amongst us added a whole new layer of enjoyment to the experience. A special shoutout is deserved for our CEO, Fon, whose expertise, passion, and warm personality made her not just a guide, but a true friend. Her dedication to ensuring that we all had an incredible time was evident in every aspect of the trip. Fon, you are a gem, and your efforts were genuinely appreciated by all of us! However, no adventure is without its lessons. The pace of the tour, while exhilarating, sometimes felt a bit rushed. Extending the itinerary by a day or two could provide a more relaxed pace, allowing for some much-needed rest days amidst the action-packed schedule. For travelers like myself, towering over 185cm, be prepared for a squeeze, especially on the night trains which proved to be quite the challenge. An additional note for future adventurers: consider booking an extra night in Singapore to fully explore the wonders this city has to offer. The tour's conclusion in Singapore feels like just the beginning of another adventure waiting to be discovered. In summary, the "Jungle Hikes & Island Nights" trip from Bangkok to Singapore was an unforgettable journey filled with incredible sights, sounds, and experiences. While there's room for minor adjustments, the overall experience was profoundly impactful, leaving us with memories to cherish for a lifetime. To those seeking adventure, camaraderie, and a touch of magic, this journey comes highly recommended.

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Great crew, decent food Charging plugs were broken on both seats next to me. Only the USB port was available, and that charges, very, very slowly. Seat was also broken, it would not lock into position when reclining.

Korean Air had great service and the Bibimbap dish was the best airplane food I’ve ever had. It was a long flight so in between the two meals they served customers could get Shin ramen. The flight attendants let my children use a pair of nice headphones for the flight and had earbuds and slippers for all the adults. The flight was long but the time passed by relatively quickly because they have many great shows in their entertainment TV. I watched the BTS Love Yourself and Speak Yourself concerts 💜

not too bad but not too great either. Service on all airlines declined ever since covid. Your Delta Stewardess are not that friendly at all. :-(

You did not put me on a Korean Air flight! so I do not have nothing to say

My flight was diverted to Atlanta and I was not given enough time. I paid my travel on April 23, 2023. It was originally Delta from Norfolk to NY, then Korean Air from NY all the way Philippines which is my final stop. Instead from Atlanta to Korea I flew Delta which is okay. Then Korea to Philippines, I flew Asiana Airlines. What I did not like, Ieagle did not sent me an email that my flight was change and so when I went to check in Wednesday the 10th, at 4:30 a.m they told me my flight was delayed at 6;00 p.m and diverted in Atlanta and I am flying Asiana from Korea to Philippines. I do not appreciate that Kayak or Ieagle chenge our flights 5 times and then last minute change again during my day of flight. I hope that you will not make any changes of my flight o Feb 15th because it has to be the same flight with my husband. That is the reason why we made the arrangements early on.

Wonderful cabin crew!!!!! Food was poor, in flight entertainment was just ok. They need to serve more water on a 15 hour flight--we were dehydrated and kept asking for water.

Going through security a third time to get on the next flight was again utterly ridiculous and unnecessary. We were in a International secure area once again and as far as I'm concerned should not have been put through the gears for absolutely no reason. The United States can get all the information they need from the travel itinerary, there was no need to be forced out of a secure area to personally interview everyone on a connecting flight to find out their US immigration status.

Flight arrived early, fantastic, since it is short flight, no food being served

Always fly with Korean Airlines. Best service great food. Nice and clean as always.

Crew was awesome, absolutely the best, Food was excellent also. Movie selection was mostly modern duds. However, I love Korean Airlines

Fast and efficient boarding. Flight was on time. Service was very good for our long flight. First time flying with this airline and I would highly recommend.

Eva Air's Business Class is pretty decent. With the given price, I think that the food can be better.

Pleasant, comfortable, and entertaining. All told, ZERO issues with it. And sadly, so far the flight was WAY more comfortable than the hellhole that is "Lambug Beach Resort" at Badian Beach!

It was a pleasant fly with Eva Air from NYC to Taipei. The crew were friendly and the food was exceeded my expectation.

Eva air is a good airline. The seats on the way to Taipei could have certainly been more comfortable, but all in all it was a pretty good experience.

Overall the flight was what might be expected for a long haul flight to Asia in economy class. The cabin crew was attentive and the food was good. Boarding was fairly fast and easy. The one thing I found frustrating was the EVA app. It is terrible. Trying to do anything on it was almost impossible.

EVA would not help with ticket issue since they were purchased through a travel agency. Even though it was EVA ticket stock. Travel agency Budget Air didn't reissue ticket after airline change which I didn’t learn until trying to checkin on Christmas Day and there was no contact number for the agency to help. I will never use Budget Air to purchase flight again and disappointed in EVA’s refusal to help. Thankfully just under 12 hrs before departure someone from the agency was available to reissue tickets. I was starting to think we would not be flying and the stress trying to resolve was completely unacceptable.

seamless check in/ friendly staff, food is good, always love flying Eva Air

Very uncomfortable and crowded seats in economy. Flight attendant refused request to move to nearby unused seat with more legroom because “It was more money for that seat”. It was also near impossible to reach airline directly by phone. Waits upwards of an hour and not very helpful customer service representatives after long wait. Cannot recommend this airline.

My experience with Eva sir was good except the long walk in LA Lex, that was inconvenient for my age,

The plane was uncomfortable. I paid extra for more legroom but the seat was still uncomfortable. Other seats on the same exact row didn’t have to pay extra but still have extra legroom. I didn’t understand why I needed to pay $170 for. It was Iike China airline just wants to make money off their passengers. It was unfair.

Liked that I could pick my seat and have a special meal without an extra charge. Luggage is reasonable for overseas trip. What could have been better is boarding and leaving on time.

Great flight, although I flew out of ONT and that is where my car is, lol

It felt like a new plane. Decent leg room in economy, food was fine, and the plane didn’t feel super dry and uncomfortable.

Ask flight attendant for water during flight and she was a little rude get the water.

Baggage made it successfully to destination despite short layover. Appreciate that.

Staff were good and nice. There should me 3 meals instead of only 2 and snacks.

Flight was delay almost 2 hours from Hong Kong to Taipei. Last minute gate change from 24 to 66. Long way walk. We need to run in the Taipei airport to catch our next flight from Taipei to Vancouver. That is so suck!

Excellent staff made the boarding process fast and easy. Friendly crews on both flights from Saigon to Taipei and Taipei to Los Angeles. Will fly China Airlines again.

For a long-haul flight, the crew did a very good job of keeping the lavatories clean and the aisles clear.

People were so nice! Economy seats were small and cramped feeling for me. I’m slender and 6 feet tall

The singapore airline now compared before covid, I like the service before covid. SQ was the best of all airlines but now I am going to look for different airline if I am travelling in asia.

Perfect experience from boarding through to leaving the flight, comfortable and personalised service from all staff, highly recommended

Due to the delay of my first flight, my connecting flight with JetBlue was canceled by Singapore Airlines, but the JetBlue crew was very accommodating and rebooked a seat for me. The crew was very nice and had good attitude.

Left hr late & arrived 1hr late luggage was slow to be offloaded! The flight crew & food were good! Movie selection was ok!

We were able to check in 48 hours before departure. The boarding was a breeze. The business' seat is very large with large tv screen. The lunch and dinner were excellent with selection of wines and other drinks. The seat was converted to a totally flat bed for sleeping which was very comfortable as well. We will definitely fly with Singapore Airline again in the future.

Would have been nice to have more variety and less dairy in the Indian Vegetarian special meal. Why do they include Parathas as part of the entree and also on the side (substitute for bread/roll)? Also, no need for so much dairy...don't need milk packet, yogurt and Chobani Greek yogurt in the same meal.

Flight attendants seemed a little more stressed out than in past Singapore flights. Not sure if that was because we had a completely full flight or if it was because it was just before Christmas. Food was decent but someone needs to update their Indian Vegetarian menus to ensure more variety, less duplication of items (Parathas included in2 different formats) and less dairy.

I cancelled my family 2023 international vacation because you guys double booked me with the same date, passengers, airlines and just hours difference and did not want to refund me at the right time and then finally cancelled the extra booking! Cancelling the booking that I personally booked! And you guys kept the unauthorized booking! This experience was really bad! Ruined everything! Never again I will book with kayak , me , my family , my friends and most importantly I will advocate to everyone to make sure not to book with Kayak! None existing customers service! Only 3rd provider that serve only their company and not the travelers!!!!!!

The meals were ok,but we weren't given any beverages with the food, only after everyone was served food, maybe short staffed but that's not proper

Biz class is way below what other airlines offer. The food was mediocre at best. A WiFi was intermittent and movies were dated. Honestly the best part of the trip was that the Mabuhay lounge in SFO was closed and they gave us pass to Air France lounge. My advise, fill up there before boarding plane.

The charges for overweight luggage were not clear, I think I paid twice, I didn’t argue because I was traveling alone & already felt exhausted.

Flight delayed by hour for departure. No real announcements or updates until told to start boarding

The economy class sitting/chairs is tight not spacious enough to sit comfortably but for other matters everything is perfect 👍☺️

Every thing was good except our baggage that wasn’t here when we arrived, we understood the cause but hopefully we will get it soon as possible

Flight was delayed. What’s better is if the flight stay on time.

I am a tall person so the seat was rather small for me lucky for me it was a short flight or i would not have been able to fly long distance in a seat that size.

Seats were very uncomfortable And the tv screens did not work neither did the phone charging ports. The crew was very friendly and the food was very good.

PAL Airlines is always delayed most of the time. Please try to avoid it.

Entertainment system in business class was broken. Not available during the entire trip. WIFI was difficult, kept disconnecting and required new passcode to re-connect (at additional cost, even if yo had already paid for the entire flight). In business class, they gave me free passcode, but I needed 4 of them to keep connected the entire flight.

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7 cheapest countries to visit in southeast asia.

Sep 10, 2022 | Asia | 0 comments

Southeast Asia is well known as an amazing place to visit. From its pristine beaches to friendly locals, there are no shortage of reasons for you to visit. Moreover, Southeast Asian countries carry a reputation for being relatively cheap to visit.

But which Southeast Asian country is actually the cheapest to visit? In this article, we are going to dive into the data and discover the cheapest countries to visit in Southeast Asia.

What is the Cheapest Country to Visit in Southeast Asia?

What may come to a shock to many of our readers was that Thailand, often touted as a cheap place to visit in Southeast Asia, is actually the most expensive country on this list. The cheapest country to visit in Southeast Asia by far is Laos, with an average daily cost of $16 , followed by Cambodia and Indonesia each with an average daily cost of $49 , and then Vietnam with an average daily cost of $51 .

Before you hurry up and book your ticket to Laos, however, be sure to check out how the spending varied between the countries on this list. For instance, while Laos is only $16 a day, it leaves only a few dollars per day to go do things. So, this may not be suitable for many travelers. This is in contrast to the next country on the list, Cambodia, which leaves nearly 40% of the daily budget for entertainment or Thailand which leaves over 50% for entertainment.

Moreover, it is possible that the travelers who have input data for Laos went for a much more minimal approach than travelers in other countries. Due to the nature of this discrepancy, I recommend you read NeverEndingFootsteps.com’s post on a detailed budget breakdown on Laos travel if it is something you are considering.

So, if you are the type of traveler who just wants to take a load off for cheap, be sure to look more closely at the accommodation and food costs, as these costs may be more reflective of the trip you are after.

Also, be sure to keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and do not reflect every traveler. This list serves as a launching pad for finding places to go, but be sure to look ahead in terms of what the experience you want will cost in each country.

1. Laos – $16 per person, per day

From the cost breakdown of Laos, which leaves only a few dollars per person per day of spending money, it is quite clear that Laos is not so much about entertainment and nightlife as the other destinations on this list. By contrast, Laos is a great place to rest, reset, and recover when traveling through Southeast Asia.

There are many places to visit within Laos as well. Some popular destinations in Laos include Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and Tham Kong Lo. Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the temples that reside there, and the city also sits within a set of very lush hills, making for incredible views of the town below. Vientiane is the capital of Laos, from which you can visit many temples temples and learn about Laotian history. Tham Kong Lo is a karst limestone cave that you are able to traverse through, and is considered to be one of Lao’s hidden gems.

Vang Vieng, Laos – $16 Per Person, Per Day

However, if you are looking for a bit more of a nightlife scene within Laos, then you should certainly visit Vang Vieng. The town is meant for tourists, and thus is quite scenic and has a much more lively vibe than other parts of Laos. Moreover, Vang Vieng is in an incredibly beautiful part of Laos, so there is lots for you to explore during the day as well.

When is it best to Visit Laos?

Laos, like many countries in Southeast Asia, does not have four seasons. Instead, they tend to have a wet, hot season and a cooler, dry season. Of course, it is best to visit during the cooler, dry season as you won’t have to worry so much about the rain. This cooler, dry season generally runs from November to April, while the hotter, wet season generally runs from May to October. Thus, you should visit from November to April.

Countries to Visit in Southeast Asia from Laos

Laos is is neighbors with Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand, which all hold other spots on this list and are great countries to visit before or after visiting Laos . So, if you are taking a longer trip through the region, Laos is a great launchpad into other countries as well.

This works especially well as Laos is both more inexpensive and laid back. So, when taking a trip through southeast Asia, Laos can make for a great place to recharge.

2. Cambodia – $49 per person, per day

Cambodia, famous for the Angkor Wat, comes in on second on this list. While it is tied with Indonesia for overall daily average spend, we gave second place to Cambodia due to its lower accommodation costs, which is typically harder to find than cheap food.

Most travelers leave Cambodia after visiting the Angkor Wat, but for the budget conscious traveler there is much to explore in this nation, with a vast array of temples and natural sights to behold. A great example is Prasat Preah Vihear. This temple rests atop a mountain, allowing you to simultaneously experience the culture and history of the temple as well as the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Battambang, Cambodia – $26 Per Person, Per Day

Another great town to travel to in Cambodia is Battambang, which is more in the countryside of Cambodia. There are a number of temples that you can visit from this location, but more than that, it is incredibly rural. This gives it a much more relaxed vibe.

But there are plenty of more conventional travel destinations in Cambodia as well. For instance, Koh Rong Samloem island is a place to visit for those who want a more quiet beach.

Want to know more about great places to visit in Vietnam and Cambodia? Check out our article on the top 10 places to visit in Vietnam and Cambodia .

When is it Best to Visit Cambodia?

Cambodia’s climate is incredibly similar to Laos’s. There is a hot, wet season, and a cool, dry season. It is recommended to visit in the cool, dry season which runs from November to May. Otherwise, you may find yourself caught up in the rain too much to enjoy the great sights Cambodia has to offer.

Countries to Visit in Southeast Asia from Cambodia

Cambodia is quite central on the continental part of Southeast Asia. It shares borders with Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos. Any of these countries are great to pair with a trip to Cambodia. In fact, there are options to take a boat (with a transfer) from Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) to Phnom Penh, the capital and most famous city in Cambodia (from where you can visit the Angkor Wat). The opposite is also possible, taking you from Cambodia to Vietnam. Alternatively, you could go west to Thailand as well.

3. Indonesia – $49 per person, per day

Indonesia, a nation made up of many islands, is up next with a cost of $49 per person, per day. The fact that Indonesia is an archipelago means good news and bad news depending on your goals while traveling. If your goal is to visit the beach, great news, Indonesia has plenty of fantastic beaches and ocean activities.

Bali, Indonesia – $62 Per Person, Per Day

The most famous travel destination in Indonesia is without a doubt Bali, a stunning island in Indonesia, which is often referred to as ‘The Land of the Gods’. There is an astounding amount of natural beauty from the beaches, volcanic, and lush landscapes. Moreover, there is plenty to experience in terms of culture as well, as Bali has a very large number of Hindu temples as well for travelers to visit.

There is, however, one downside to Bali: the number of travelers.

Lombok, Indonesia – $45 Per Person, Per Day

Thus, it is becoming increasingly popular to visit other islands in Indonesia, such as Lombok. Lombok has a lot of the same natural appeal that Bali does, but the tourism sector is not quite as developed. This means less tourists if you’re looking for a quiet, peaceful vacation, but may also mean less amenities.

However, if your goal is to visit a number of nations while visiting Southeast Asia, then unfortunately Indonesia may not be the best choice due to its separation from other nations on this list. The exception to this would be Malaysia, as Indonesia does border Malaysia on one island.

When is it Best to Visit Indonesia?

Unfortunately, it isn’t so clear when it comes to what time is best to visit Indonesia as it varies from region to region as it is made up of so many different islands which are spread apart. However, as a general rule of thumb Indonesia’s dry season runs from April to October, while the wet season runs from November to March. Thus, it is best to visit from April to October as it will be less rainy. This is the opposite of Laos and Cambodia which were previously explored on this list.

4. Vietnam – $51 per person, per day

Vietnam, known for its extensive history, beautiful sights, and world-class food is next on this list. Vietnam has a range of attractions for the curious and adventurous traveler.

Hanoi, Vietnam – $41 Per Person, Per Day

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, serves as a great place to stay for making day trips in North Vietnam. For instance, many trips to Ha Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay are organized as day trips leaving from Hanoi. This provides a great deal of flexibility when staying in Vietnam, as you don’t have to be quite so deterministic in your itinerary beforehand.

Sapa, Vietnam – $30 Per Person, Per Day

Another location you could take a trip to from Hanoi is Sapa. Sapa is a rural town in Vietnam which is much quieter than other towns, and has lush, green fields. But, it is also home to the tallest mountain in Vietnam: Fansipan. After taking a cable ride up to the top you will be able to see the beauty of Sapa down below as you stand in the Bich Van Thien Tu temple. If you want a truly unforgettable experience, a homestay in Sapa is recommended as well.

When is it Best to Visit Vietnam?

Vietnam’s North and South have quite distinct climates from one another. In Southern Vietnam, there is a wet season and a dry season much like Cambodia and Laos. The dry season, which is the best time to visit, runs from December to May. However, the best time to visit Northern Vietnam, is generally October to December while it is sunnier and less cold. But, it is generally best to research the individual areas you would like to go in Vietnam as the climate varies greatly from region to region.

However, you do need to aware of Tet. In this time many Vietnamese people will celebrate by going home to their families, which can leave tourists, well, stranded. Always be sure to check when Tet is to make sure that if you are visiting everything is arranged well in advance. This may be a good time to find a place to relax, but it wouldn’t be the best time to try and go city-hopping. This is especially true as there will be large migration of locals going to see their families as well.

Countries to Visit in Southeast Asia from Vietnam

If you are traveling through Vietnam and looking to move on to somewhere else in the region, your best bets are without a doubt Laos and Cambodia. Located on the western border of Vietnam, it is convenient to travel to either of these countries. However, if you are in the North, such as around Hanoi, it is closer to go to Laos. However, if you are in the South, it is closer to go to Vietnam. In fact, you can ride a boat from Saigon to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia (although it is not nonstop).

5. The Philippines – $52 per person, per day

The Philippines is an archipelago nation much like Indonesia, but the Philippines has one key differentiating factor from Indonesia and every other nation on this list so far: the people of the Philippines speak English relatively well ( the second best in Asia ). So, for any first time travelers looking to ease into international travel or travelers who want to avoid communications issues, the Philippines is a great choice.

Boracay, Philippines – $44 Per Person, Per Day

Moreover, the Philippines has a wide range of beautiful beaches and a well developed tourism industry. If you are looking for a classic getaway experience, Boracay is the answer. It hosts an absolutely stunning white beach which as far as classic beaches go, it is absolutely picturesque.

When is it Best to Visit the Philippines?

The Philippines has a wet and dry season much like many countries in Southeast Asia. So, it is best to visit the Philippines during the dry season in order to avoid the rain, which would really put a hamper in any beach plans. The dry season of the Philippines runs from November to April. However, the coolest months of the dry season are from December to February. However, this also means more tourists, so you must balance your weather tolerance and tourist tolerance accordingly.

6. Malaysia – $67 per person, per day

Similarly to the people of the Philippines, Malaysian people speak English quite well also ( Malaysia is the third best in Asia, right behind the Philippines ). However, Malaysia is most well known for its unique culture and diversity. The three major ethnicities in Malaysia are Malay (Bumiputra), Chinese, and Indian. So, if you are looking for a wide range of cultural experiences all in one country, Malaysia is certainly a great choice!

Malaysia is also home to a number of stunning natural locations such the Batu Caves outside of Kuala Lumpur, or the Cameron Highlands, a set of winding, wavy hills which nearly appear almost as an optical illusion. Indonesia also has many islands and coasts which are home to beautiful beaches as well.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – $49 Per Person, Per Day

However, if nightlife is your thing, Kuala Lumpur is the destination for you. During the day you can take a trip up the Petronas Towers (the tallest set of towers pictured above), and take a view from the observation deck. Then, as nightfall comes you can make your way over to the Golden Triangle. This area is the commercial and shopping hub of Kuala Lumpur, as well as the nightlife hub. You won’t find yourself with a shortage of things to do.

So, if you were looking for a way to ease into your trip to Southeast Asia, one great plan would be to start in Malaysia where you may feel more comfortable due to the prevalence of English, and then move your way through Thailand, and then Cambodia and Laos, and then finally to Vietnam.

When is it Best to Visit Malaysia?

Malaysia, has a number of varied climates depending on where you are in the country at any given time. To understand what time is best, the country needs to be sliced into a few different parts, although you should definitely dig deeper into the specific location you want to go to. For Peninsular Malaysia, you can visit the east coast from June to September or December through February for the west coast.

7. Thailand – $89 per person, per day

Thailand, certainly the most famous of the countries to visit on this list, does also top out as the most expensive at $89 per day. However, should be noted is that over half of that budget was not going to accommodation or food, meaning that the travelers who went to Thailand are spending a lot more on entertainment. But, this also means that any travelers who do want to visit Thailand and keep it cheap just need to keep their entertainment budget in check and they will be good to go.

To those of you newer to travel in Southeast Asia wondering why Thailand is so famous, the answer is quite clear: great scenery, great people (Thailand is also known as ‘the land of smiles’), great food, great beaches, and great partying. If that sounds like what you’re after, look no further with confidence.

Bangkok, Thailand – $58 Per Person, Per Day

The most popular destination in Thailand by a wide margin is Bangkok, the capital. There are a number of cultural and historical sites to visit in addition to fantastic nightlife and incredible food. Another great upside to Bangkok is how central it is to the whole region of Southeast Asia. It makes for convenient travel to Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, or Malaysia.

Chiang Mai, Thailand – $36 Per Person, Per Day

But, if you’re after a more lowkey destination, then Chiang Mai takes the cake. It is further north than Bangkok and known for having stunning natural beauty as well as just being a great place to relax. The only downside to this is that it is much less central than Bangkok, so it may be difficult to reach other destinations from here. But, there is great infrastructure to go between Chiang Mai and Bangkok, which does negate some of the downside.

When is it Best to Visit Thailand?

Thailand, much like Cambodia, Laos, and the South of Vietnam, has a wet and a dry season. The goal is to visit during the dry season when there is a much lower likelihood of your plans being rained out. Generally speaking, the best time to visit is from November to March, although it once again largely depends on where you will go and what you would like to do.

Countries to Visit in Southeast Asia after Thailand

While Thailand is the most expensive country on this list, it also is the most central, which affords it a unique advantage. From Thailand it is incredibly easy to go east to Cambodia and Laos, or continue on to Vietnam. But, it is also just as easy to go South into Malaysia. Moreover, due to the popularity of Thailand, these routes are fairly well developed and you will not have much trouble getting to other major cities in the region, especially from Bangkok.

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

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

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

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

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

Southeast Asia Weather Guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Times for Beaches in Southeast Asia

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

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

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

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

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

Worst Times to Visit Southeast Asia

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

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

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

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

Best Times to Visit Different Countries in Southeast Asia

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

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

Best Times to Visit Thailand

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

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

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

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Best Times to Visit Vietnam

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

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

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

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

Best Times to Visit Singapore

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

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

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

Best Times to Visit Cambodia

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

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

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Best Times to Visit Myanmar (Burma)

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

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

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Best Time to Visit Laos

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

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

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Best Times to Visit Malaysia

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

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

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

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Best Times to Visit Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide by Month

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

January Travel in Southeast Asia

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

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

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

Reveal the top January destinations in Southeast Asia >>>

February Travel in Southeast Asia

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

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

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

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

March Travel in Southeast Asia

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

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

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

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

April Travel in Southeast Asia

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

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

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

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

May Travel in Southeast Asia

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

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

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

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

June Travel in Southeast Asia

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

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

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

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

July Travel in Southeast Asia

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

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

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

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

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

August Travel in Southeast Asia

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

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

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

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

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

September Travel in Southeast Asia

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

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

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

October Travel in Southeast Asia

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

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

November Travel in Southeast Asia

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

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

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

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

December Travel in Southeast Asia

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

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

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

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

For more weather details, check Southeast Asia Weather in December

Travel in Southeast Asia Your Way

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

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Our guide lele is a wealth of information, Lele is very professional and very attentive to our needs. Lele is amazing. Lele got everything spot on. It probably helps that Guilin is a brilliant place to visit so Lele has great material to work with but that doesn't take anything away from how much Lele helped make it a great trip.

Our guide for Beijing was super knowledgeable and experienced and able to help us to achieve as much as we wanted within the time given. We had a fun time guided by him as he is also super humorous and you can see how he interacts with the vendors and people whom he comes by. Thank you for a very enjoyable time in Beijing and accommodating to all our needs!

Our China Highlight guide. Michael, was attentive, thoughtful and knowledgeable. He narrated many interesting historical events about Chengdu while touring around the city and having afternoon tea with us. He was thoughtful to provide us with snacks during long hikes at Leshan or walks around the city.

She was very flexible and added extra time when we needed it and we felt extremely well taken care of. She also chose the best restaurants for us,

Our tour guide Helen, was excellent, she was very kind, professional and passionate for her work and she also loves Pandas! She will take you to take the best panda photos and to know more about Chengdu city. Our tour was great, she took us to all our destinations always with the best spots: Temples, pagodas, famous streets, theaters, pandas...you name it! Everything was great.

He picked up our pre-booked boat/other excursions tickets so we were able to avoid all the long lines and chaos. He is knowledgeable of the places we visited, courteous, fun to travel with and well-versed in Chinese classics.

Tom is the guide that will take you to where no other guide will. We pushed for the experience and Tom and the team delivered more than what we could have ever asked for. His English speaking ability and his Chinese history knowledge is second to none.

Our day trip to Hangzhou was phenomenal. Derek, our guide, was impeccable. By far the best guide we have had so far. He is extremely knowledgeable about the country’s history and geography and was always excited to share his insights.

Xian es encantadora, el hotel Eastern house boutique muy buena elección por parte de la agencia, los desayunos muy completos para complacer todo tipo de gusto, lo recomiendo 100%, el itinerario fue muy acertado fueron 2 días en la ciudad xian, compartimos con la guía Susana, la atención, la amabilidad y sobre todo su profesionalismo fue lo que marcó la diferencia, sus detalles, estaba siempre en el lugar y momento correcto para hacer de xian un lugar inolvidable.

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14 Best Places To Visit In Southeast Asia

W ith its combination of natural beauty, historic sites, exceptional food, and mind-bogglingly affordable prices, Southeast Asia is one of the best areas for travelers to explore. Across this diverse region, there is an adventure waiting for any type of traveler, from beach bums to city slickers. The remote islands and busy cities in Southeast Asia will suck you in and quickly become some of your favorite destinations.

Southeast Asia is also one of the best places in the world for solo travelers thanks to its abundance of hostels, welcoming vibes, and cheap rates. Flights from North America and Europe take a very long time to reach this region of the world, though. That's why you'll want to choose the countries you visit very wisely. Otherwise, you'll need to hop back on a plane for another full day of flights. While the task of choosing a vacation destination can be a little daunting, you can't go wrong with one of the following 14 best places in Southeast Asia to visit.

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is a bustling major city in Southeast Asia that's probably the easiest place to fly into for most people visiting from North America and Europe. It makes sense to use Bangkok as your jumping-off point to a big Southeast Asia trip. While some people choose to get in and out of Bangkok, visitors should opt to spend at least a day or two here getting to know the capital of Thailand. There is a wealth of activities to do and things to see in Bangkok. 

First, you'll want to try all the great restaurants in Bangkok before getting a little more adventurous at the legendary Khao San Road. Here you'll have the chance to put your stomach to the test as you munch on things like fried grasshoppers, crickets, scorpions, and even tarantulas. For travelers who want to stay on the safe side, the famous city offers plenty of regular street food, too. 

Between dining, head over to some of Bangkok's temples, such as Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho. Bangkok's iconic temples are renowned and will leave you humbled by their beauty.

Finally, finish out your days in Bangkok by sipping down drinks at one of the city's many rooftop bars. Some of the best rooftop bars in Bangkok are Sky Bar, Hi-So Rooftop Bar, and Vertigo. All in all, Bangkok is the perfect introduction to Thailand and Southeast Asia in general.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand is one of the most charming and fun destinations in the entire country. Every night, vendors cover the sidewalks with their fare, creating an entertaining maze of street food and markets to dive into. There are actually several different night markets to choose from across the city, like the nightly Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and Tha Phae Walking Street on Sundays. Night markets are something to look forward to and somehow never get boring.

During the day, though, the real adventure in Chiang Mai comes to life. There are intricate, beautiful temples to discover, like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep at the top of a mountain and Wat Phra Singh in the Old City. You can also go on hikes through the jungle to swimmable waterfalls or get one of the most affordable deep tissue massages of your life.

One of the best things to do in Chiang Mai is book a day trip to hang out with rescued elephant families in the wilderness. Just make sure you only book with an ethical elephant sanctuary like Toto's Elephant Sanctuary, which doesn't allow riding. Even if you simply spend all day getting to know Chiang Mai riding around on a motorbike, it will be unlike anything you've experienced before. It's a special Southeast Asia destination that you'll likely fall in love with.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Travelers who prefer days splayed out on the beach will never want to leave Koh Samui island in Thailand. It's a favorite destination in Southeast Asia for romantic honeymoons in paradise. Koh Samui is absolutely covered in luxurious resorts and picturesque beaches that will take your breath away. 

Whether you're searching for a beachside resort that will cater to your every whim or a more intimate, secluded oasis, Koh Samui has you covered. Some of the best beaches across the island include Chaweng, Lamai, and Silver Beach. If you somehow grow bored of lounging the day away and sipping on cocktails, there are plenty of activities around the island, too.

Koh Samui is home to several Buddhist cultural sites, such as Big Buddha Temple and Wat Plai Laem. You can also go shopping or grab a bite to eat at the Fisherman's Village by Bophut Beach. Alternatively, thrill-seekers can take an ATV drive through the jungle on a guided tour. Koh Samui provides the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Koh Rong Sanloem, Cambodia

In Southeast Asia, it's hard to find a cool place that isn't completely overrun by other visitors. Understandably, the region's beauty is a hotbed for travelers who want to catch a glimpse. For travelers who want to visit a peaceful island still relatively untouched by the effects of tourism, head to the island of Koh Rong Sanloem in Cambodia. 

Koh Rong Sanloem has that wild island feel, with immaculate beaches and epic, unspoiled scuba diving spots. It's definitely a laid-back type of island where most of the activities available involve lounging on the shores or taking a dip in the waters. You can sit back with a cocktail or some homemade local food and watch the monkeys swing through the trees. The island will provide all the space you need to fully relax and recharge. 

When the sun goes down, take a boat ride out to the deeper part of the ocean to see the famous bioluminescent plankton . When you move through the water, blue sparks of light will come off the plankton and shimmer in the water. It's quite the trippy sight and makes you realize how much of the world is a mystery.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

When you're visiting Cambodia, there is one activity that's practically required for newcomers -- a visit to Angkor Wat . You don't want to miss this enormous temple complex in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Even if you've never heard of it before now, it should immediately go on your bucket list because it's one of the most impressive sites in Southeast Asia. As the largest religious structure in the world, it's one of the most incredible feats of humankind, period.

Angkor Wat is so huge that visitors need more than just a day to see the entire thing. The whole complex is actually 400 acres. You may even want to hire a guide to provide insight into everything you're seeing.

While Angkor Wat will take up a big chunk of your time in Siem Reap, there are plenty of other things to do in this Cambodian city, too. The Cambodia Cultural Village, Angkor Silk Farm, and Banteay Srey Butterfly Center will all keep you entertained in Siem Reap. When you're finished with your activities for the day, don't forget to go for a stroll along the lively Pub Street for some drinks, grub, and partying.

Kampot, Cambodia

Kampot, Cambodia is home to a wealth of thrilling outdoor activities that will get your heart pumping. Here you can get on the back of a dirt bike and take off on an adventure through the jungle (with a responsible guide, of course). You can hop on a paddleboard or aboard a kayak to explore the lengths of the Kampot River. 

Throughout the area, there are plenty of spots for rock climbing available at the massive Climbodia climbing site. Some of the climbing routes are suitable for newbies and others are better for advanced climbers. Anyone who loves outdoor adventure will get a kick out of this lively Cambodian city. However, if all this activity sounds like it will be too much for you, there are also things to do for tamer travelers. 

You can still experience the beautiful Kampot River on a calmer river cruise at sunset. Rent a motorbike and ride up Bokor Mountain to see the famous Bokor Palace. Visit a pepper plantation to learn about Kampot's long-standing history in the pepper industry. Alternatively, just simply wander around the Kampot Night Market to munch down on local goodies and shop for trinkets.

Hanoi, Vietnam

You can imagine how much good stuff there is to do in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. Now, take that imagined number and triple it. That's a more accurate assessment of how much fun you can have here. Hanoi is over 1,000 years old and there are a few key things to do in the city that every visitor has to check out.

Hanoi is known for its traditional water puppet shows in theaters across the city. It's a fantastic afternoon activity for families with kids, but it's a nice thing to do for really any Vietnam visitor. There are tons of affordable activities for budget travelers, like biking around Turtle Lake or getting an exterior glimpse of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. There are a few stunning temples to check out, including Tran Quoc Pagoda and Ngoc Son Temple. If you're really in need of a dose of excitement, book an overnight cruise that travels along the nearby Ha Long Bay. 

However, the real star of the show in Hanoi is all the scrumptious Vietnamese street food you can get your hands on. Hanoi has plenty of tours to get a deeper sense of the area, including food tours, free walking tours, and even cooking classes to learn how to make all the Hanoi specialties you crave. Plus, Hanoi offers some of the cheapest accommodations you'll find.

Ha Giang Loop, Vietnam

Most people hit all the major cities on a trip to Vietnam, but one of the best places in the entire country to explore is the Ha Giang Loop all the way in the north. Travelers on the hunt for the adventure of a lifetime in Southeast Asia will find it on the Ha Giang Loop. The entire route spans over 217 miles and takes anywhere from two days to five days to complete on motorbike. Taking a motorbike trip around this region of Vietnam will bring you through landscapes that you probably thought could only exist in fiction.

During the day, you'll spend hours on the twisting, winding roads of northern Vietnam. Throughout the entire journey, you'll be completely surrounded by bountiful mountains reaching far up into the sky. Each evening, you'll reach little towns with cozy homestays that will treat you like a member of the family. It's a humbling and eye-opening trip, but you should only attempt to drive it yourself if you're experienced on a motorbike. Otherwise, hire a driver because these roads are no joke.

Describing the experience and showing photographs of the Ha Giang Loop doesn't quite do it justice. You need to see it with your own eyes to believe it. The Ha Giang Loop is easily one of the most beautiful places in Southeast Asia and that's saying a lot for a region that's dripping with beauty.

Nusa Penida, Bali, Indonesia

Bali is a lot of travelers' first destination in Southeast Asia, but little do they know there is a tiny island off the coast of the mainland that's even cooler than the usual tourist spots. One of the most famous places in Indonesia for its natural beauty is Nusa Penida island. This magical island and its jaw-dropping attractions are like something you'd see on a postcard.

You may recognize Nusa Penida's most popular attractions from the social media posts of your favorite influencers. Spots like Kelingking Beach, Angel's Billabong, and Thousand Islands Viewpoints are so scenic that lots of Instagrammers constantly want to capture them. When you're done getting to know all the most photo-worthy tourist attractions, there is still plenty of stuff to do on this multifaceted island. 

Get a sense of the local culture and watch a prayer session at Pura Goa Giri Putri Cave, or test your capacity for vertigo by walking the steep steps down to Peguyangan Waterfall. Every day you're in Nusa Penida, there will be something unbelievably incredible to do. It is truly a work of art by mother nature and it's no surprise that it's one of the coolest places to visit in Southeast Asia.

Luang Prabang, Laos

The enchanting, UNESCO-ranked town of Luang Prabang provides visitors with a truly magical setting in the mountainous region of Laos. The city is optimally located right next to the Mekong River and there is a wide range of things to do in Luang Prabang. Whether you're hungry for the outdoors or want to see man-made wonders, you'll find both in Luang Prabang.

Start by embarking on the hike to the massive Kuang Si Falls. After soaking up Laos' nature and getting plenty of photos of the well-known waterfall, visit one of Luang Prabang's more than 30 different temples. Some of the most enchanting ones are Wat Xieng Thong and Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham. Next, take a river cruise along the Mekong River or just leisurely walk around to check out the city's notoriously beautiful architecture.

If you want a real glimpse into the local culture and spirituality, wake up extra early to catch the Alms Giving Ceremony that starts from the city center and works its way out towards the side avenues. During the ceremony, the city's monks come out to collect offerings that will help take care of the poor. You can participate by offering a piece of fruit or some sweets. When you're done for the day, don't miss the Luang Prabang Night Market with its endless handmade goods, souvenirs, street food, and more.

Langkawi, Malaysia

You'll come to find that Southeast Asia is rich in island paradises. You could visit a new one every year and still have more to see. However, one of the best islands in the whole region is Langkawi located off the coast of Malaysia. 

It's such a top destination in Southeast Asia that Langkawi actually has its own international airport. So, it's possible to fly into Langkawi from another Asian country. Langkawi features pristine, relaxing beaches and some of the country's most expansive, gorgeous landscapes.

Nearby Langkawi, there are actually 104 other fun territories dotted along the sea to explore on a day of island hopping. As a tropical island, there is lots of nature and wildlife to see in Langkawi, and the best way to see it all is by joining a boat tour. The other cool thing about Langkawi is that it's duty-free, meaning that there's no tax on the island. So, make sure you take the opportunity to shop until you drop.

Boracay, Philippines

The archipelagic country of the Philippines consists of over 7,000 islands, so it's easy to understand why it's one of the best vacation destinations in all of Southeast Asia. The only problem is that with so many equally tempting options, it can be hard to pick a place to go in the Philippines. Among all the potential destinations, one of the best choices for any type of traveler is Boracay. 

The island of Boracay provides the ultimate beach vacation. There are several exquisite beaches to choose from and each beach offers a different signature activity. There are thousands of puka shells to find at the family-friendly Puka Beach and White Beach is perfect for sailing or water sports. If you prefer a more private beach experience, Balinghai Beach tucked away in a cove is the right fit. The island also has some of the clearest waters you can imagine, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling or scuba diving.

Bagan, Myanmar

There are lots of ways to take in the eye-catching sites and landscapes of Southeast Asia, but what if you could soar through the air in a basket carried by a giant balloon? It sounds like something out of a dream, but actually, taking a hot air balloon ride is one of the most mystical things to do in the region. You can find this heart-pumping experience in real life when you visit Bagan, Myanmar. 

You'll fly right over the city's 2,000 famous historical monuments and see intricate temples from above. It'll leave you in absolute awe. However, hot air balloon season in Bagan only lasts from October to April, so you'll need to schedule your trip around this period to partake.

After your memorable hot air balloon ride, the fun in Bagan is long from over. Get a different perspective on the sites you flew over by riding a bike to the city's temples or catch the fiery sunset dip down below the Irrawaddy River. Plus, you can never get bored with eating all the Burmese food you can handle. 

Singapore, Singapore

Even though Singapore is a relatively small city, it has built a reputation as one of the most iconic places to visit in Southeast Asia. When you get there, you'll understand why so many people are attracted to Singapore. It's kind of like a city plucked from a totally different world with its futuristic architecture and sites. 

Kick off a trip to Singapore by visiting one of its most recognizable attractions: the enchanting Gardens by the Bay . These magical gardens are signified by their 150-foot-tall "supertrees," which are quite literally gigantic manmade trees that tower over the gardens. The supertrees aren't just for show: They generate solar power and even collect rainwater. You can walk among the supertrees through an elevated pathway; just make sure you go at night to see the garden fully lit up.

After a little hike through the supertrees, get a taste of luxury at the Marina Bay Sands. Some of the city's very best restaurants and bars are located inside this famous building. Alternatively, budget travelers can get an affordable smorgasbord of food at one of Singapore's signature food courts, like Chinatown Complex Food Center or Maxwell Road Hawker Center. These places are a huge step up from the old mall food courts you're familiar with.

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This is officially the cheapest destination in the world in 2024

By Connor Sturges

Despite economic uncertainty and the cost of living causing most of us to tighten our pursestrings recently, there’s one thing few of us are unwilling to give up – travel. A recent study by American Express found that almost half of Brits are more interested in taking a major trip this year than previously, while more than half of those surveyed said they are saving up for a bucket list adventure.

While our wanderlust hasn’t dampened, the way we travel post-pandemic has changed in many ways, and many travellers are more savvy than ever when securing a jet-set deal.

Have no fear; the 18th annual Holiday Money Report from Post Office Travel Money is here, highlighting the global destination where our money goes further.

The Post Office’s report looks at various factors likely to influence holiday decision-making in 2024, from exchange rates to the cost of eating out and visiting each destination's most popular tourist attractions.

According to the study, Vietnam tops the leaderboard for the first time. The former port city of Hội An leads the way for travellers on a budget, thanks to lower restaurant and bar charges and a considerable drop in the value of the Vietnamese dong.

The Post Office’s Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer combines the average local price of eight popular tourist items. The coastal hotspot of Hội An leads the way on three of these – beer (£1.16), Coca-Cola (£0.72), and suncream (£3.70). Lower costs mean the city has leapfrogged from sixth place in 2023.

Hội An is one of Vietnam ’s most charming and atmospheric cities. The commercial hustle and bustle of the bucket list destination’s larger, more metropolitan cities is almost entirely absent. Travellers spend mornings on the pristine beaches, afternoons touring fascinating historical sites, and evenings seeking out the tastiest corners of the Hội An Night Market. Best of all, it’s one of the best places in the world to catch up on quality shuteye , according to the Skyscanner 2024 UK Travel Trends Report, which analysed cities with hotels with the best sleep quality scores.

The 2024 report places Cape Town , last year’s winner, in second place. Local costs have risen, but it’s still the cheapest place for a three-course meal (£34.64) – in contrast, a multi-course feast in Costa Rica’s Tamarindo will set you back an average of £107.38.

Mombasa in Kenya has taken the third spot, Tokyo in Japan fourth, and Portugal’s Algarve fifth. The Algarve is the highest placed of the 15 European destinations surveyed, overtaking Turkey and Bulgaria.

Other major takeaways from the Holiday Money Report include the popularity of the Euro; it’s by far the bestselling currency for Post Office Travel Money, and sales are up eight per cent in 2024 to date. Otherwise, despite Marmaris in Turkey losing its top-five spot on the barometer, the report states that British travellers heading to Turkey will get the best deal due to the collapse of the Turkish Lira, which has continued to fall in the past year. Brits can expect to receive almost 81 per cent more lira for the pounds than a year ago – the equivalent in lira of more than £223 extra on a £500 currency purchase. While local costs have skyrocketed, shoulder season visits and stays outside of the tourist-heavy spots could result in a bargain summer escape.

Below, we round up the ten cheapest, and ten most expensive, destinations in the world. The corresponding price is the combined average price of a local coffee, beer, cola, glass of wine, bottle of water, suncream , insect repellent, and a three-course meal.

The cheapest destinations in the world

1. Hoi An, Vietnam: £51.18 2. Cape Town, South Africa: £54.35 3. Mombasa, Kenya: £54.93 4. Tokyo, Japan: £59.05 5. Algarve, Portugal: £59.69 6. Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt: £61.37 7. Sunny Beach, Bulgaria: £62.49 8. Kuta, Bali: £63.31 9. Marmaris, Turkey: £66.07 10. Paphos, Cyprus: £73.32

The most expensive destinations in the world

1. Tamarindo, Costa Rica: £158.04 2. New York, USA: £143.28 3. St John's, Antigua: £138.42 4. Rodney Bay, St Lucia: £137.40 5. Bridgetown, Barbados: £134.92 6. Downtown Dubai, Dubai: £134.29 7. Scarborough, Tobago: £130.58 8. Cancun, Mexico: £127.10 9. Darwin, Australia: £126.36 10. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: £124.70

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