Things to Do

South East Asia is renowned for its stunning islands, each offering unique experiences. In Thailand, island hopping around the Phi Phi Islands is a must, with stops at Maya Bay, famous for its turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. Indonesia’s Gili Islands offer a more laid-back vibe, where you can snorkel with turtles and relax on white sandy beaches. The Philippines’ Palawan region is home to El Nido and Coron, where you can explore hidden lagoons, limestone cliffs, and some of the world’s clearest waters. Island hopping allows you to escape the crowds and find secluded spots to relax and take in the natural beauty.

A trip to South East Asia wouldn’t be complete without exploring its diverse and flavorful cuisine. In Thailand, take a street food tour in Bangkok, where you can sample everything from spicy Som Tum (papaya salad) to savory Pad Thai. Vietnam offers vibrant food tours where you can enjoy dishes like Pho and Banh Mi in bustling markets and cozy cafes. In Malaysia, the island of Penang is known for its culinary diversity, offering a mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian flavors in dishes like Laksa and Char Kway Teow. Indonesian food tours let you try local specialties like Nasi Goreng and Satay, with cooking classes available to learn how to make these dishes yourself. Each tour is a delicious journey into the region’s food culture, allowing you to taste and learn about local ingredients and cooking techniques.

Cultural tours in South East Asia offer a unique glimpse into the region’s diverse heritage. In Cambodia, explore the ancient temples of Angkor, where you can learn about Khmer history and architecture. In Vietnam, walk through Hanoi’s Old Quarter and visit traditional water puppet theaters to experience local folklore. Thailand offers the chance to participate in a monk’s alms-giving ceremony in Chiang Mai or explore the vibrant markets and traditional houses in Bangkok. In Indonesia, visit local villages in Bali to learn about traditional crafts, music, and dances that have been passed down through generations. These cultural experiences provide a deeper understanding of the people and traditions that shape each country.

For nature lovers and adventurers, South East Asia has a wealth of trekking options. In Vietnam, trek through the misty hills of Sapa, where terraced rice fields and colorful ethnic minority villages offer stunning views. Indonesia’s Mount Rinjani on Lombok is a challenging but rewarding trek, where you can camp by the crater lake and watch the sunrise from the summit. Malaysia’s Borneo is ideal for jungle treks, where you might encounter orangutans and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Thailand’s Chiang Mai region offers lush trails that lead to waterfalls, hill tribe villages, and panoramic mountain views. Each trek offers a chance to connect with nature and experience breathtaking landscapes.

South East Asia is a haven for wellness retreats, where you can unwind and recharge in serene environments. Bali, Indonesia, is particularly famous for its yoga and meditation retreats, often set amidst rice paddies or by the ocean. Thailand offers luxurious spa resorts in places like Phuket and Koh Samui, where you can indulge in traditional Thai massages and holistic healing treatments. In Malaysia, the island of Langkawi has world-class wellness resorts that provide a tranquil escape with therapies inspired by local traditions. Wellness retreats here go beyond relaxation, offering experiences that nurture both the body and mind, from detox programs to mindfulness workshops.