Take China Group Tours in 2025 to enjoy a 30% discount compared to a private tour. Same Experience & Lowest Price!
1 Southeast Asia Where to Go | 1st Step for Easy Trip Planning
| Country | Island | Vibe | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thailand | Phuket | Lively | Bustling beaches, nightlife, water sports |
| Phi Phi Islands | Dramatic | Stunning scenery, Maya Bay (from "The Beach"), diving | |
| Koh Samui | Intimate | Upscale resorts, family-friendly beaches, nightlife | |
| Railay Beach | Secluded | Towering cliffs, white sand, clear waters | |
| Vietnam | Phu Quoc | Up-and-coming | Pristine beaches, nightlife, historical sites |
| Cat Ba Island | Off-the-beaten-path | National Park with halls & caves, beaches |
When it comes to island destinations in Southeast Asia, Thailand ranks number one without a doubt. These beautiful Thailand Islands offer an all-rounded travel experience catering to every travel interest because there are just so many great islands, each with its distinct charms. And that's one of the main reasons to visit Thailand! And let's also decide How Many Days in Thailand you should spend.
Vietnam can also be a great choice for islands, with upcoming destinations like Phu Quoc.
Where to Go in Southeast Asia to Admire History Relics
| Country | Relic | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Cambodia | Angkor Wat, Siem Reap | Khmer Empire's architectural crown jewel |
| Bayon Temple, Siem Reap | Compassionate Buddhist faces | |
| Banteay Srei, Siem Reap | Delicate Hindu masterpiece | |
| Laos | Luang Prabang | Preserved Laotian architecture & temples |
| Vat Phou, Champassak | Khmer & Laotian architectural blend | |
| Vietnam | My Son Sanctuary, Quang Nam Province | Cham civilization's legacy |
| Hoi An Ancient Town | Blend of Vietnamese, Chinese & Japanese influences | |
| Thailand | Ayutthaya Historical Park | Ruins of Siamese kingdom's grandeur |
| Sukhothai Historical Park | Early Thai architecture with Khmer & Sinhalese influences |
Cambodia History Trip Plan:
Planning Your Trip to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap: Aim for the Best Time to Visit, dry season (November-March) for comfortable exploration. Purchase Angkor Wat passes in advance and consider hiring a guide for a deeper historical perspective.
Planning Your Visit Bayon Temple, Siem Reap: Combine Bayon with your Angkor Wat exploration.
Planning Your Trip to Banteay Srei, Siem Reap: Combine Banteay Srei with your Angkor Wat or Bayon exploration for a full day of temple hopping.
Laos History Trip Plan:
Planning Your Trip to Luang Prabang: Aim for the cool season (November-February) for comfortable exploration. Luang Prabang is walkable, but consider tuk-tuks for longer distances.
Planning Your Trip to Vat Phou, Champassak: Combine Vat Phou with a visit to the nearby Bolaven Plateau for a nature and history blend. Public transportation is limited, so consider renting a motorbike or hiring a driver.
History Trip Plan for Vietnam:
Trip Planning for My Son Sanctuary, Quang Nam Province: My Son is a half-day trip from Hoi An. Guided tours are available and recommended for a richer historical understanding.
Trip Planning for Hoi An Ancient Town: Hoi An is best explored on foot. Aim for the shoulder seasons (March-May, September-November) to avoid peak crowds.
History Trip Plan for Thailand:
Trip Planning for Ayutthaya Historical Park: Ayutthaya is easily accessible by day trip from Bangkok. Rent a bicycle or hire a driver to explore the vast park efficiently. Do consider a side trip to Erawan Water Falls to admire the serene nature, which is located in Kanchanaburi, not far from Ayutthaya.
Sukhothai Historical Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site further north of Ayutthaya showcases the ruins of palaces, temples, and wats (monasteries) from the first Siamese kingdom. Explore the early Thai architecture with Khmer and Sinhalese influences.
Where to Go in Southeast Asia to Live the Local Lifestyle
| Country | City | Experience | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thailand | Chiang Mai | Cooking Class & Bustling Markets | Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, take a Thai cooking class |
| Throughout Thailand | Celebrate Songkran (Thai New Year), Street food | Water fights, parades (annually in April) | |
| Vietnam | Hoi An | Explore & Savor | Wander through colorful shophouses, cycle through rice paddies, indulge in street food |
| Hoi An | Witness Hoi An Lantern Festival | Massive glowing lanterns display, boats lit with candles on Thu Bon River (14th day of each lunar month) | |
| Laos | Luang Prabang | Culture & History | Witness the alms-giving ceremony, explore the night market |
| Laos | Throughout Laos | Celebrate Bun Pha Vet (Boat Racing Festival) | Witness thrilling races, parades, traditional performances (annually in September or October) |
| Cambodia | Siem Reap | Local Life Beyond Angkor Wat | Explore Psare Chas (Old Market), take a Khmer cooking class |
| Cambodia | Throughout Cambodia | Celebrate Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) | Witness boat races, parades, festive atmosphere along the Mekong River (Held annually in November) |
To have an authentic immersion with your Southeast Asia trip, planning is the key! There are so many Things to Do in Southeast Asia region, especially with festivals dotted throughout the year, how to choose among those great things to do is paramount.
The chart above is just the tip of the iceberg of the iconic experiences in Southeast Asia. To find out more and come up with a trip plan according to your own preferences, simply Contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel and follow our seasoned local guides through Southeast Asia!
Where to Go in Southeast Asia as a Nature Lover
| Country | Highlight | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Thailand | Krabi | Limestone cliffs, emerald lagoons, hidden coves (Railay Beach) |
| Erawan National Park | Seven tiers of cascading waterfalls | |
| Vietnam | Ha Long Bay | Emerald waters amidst towering limestone pillars (UNESCO World Heritage Site) |
| Mekong River Cruise (Delta) | Cruise through waterways, past floating markets, rice paddies, and villages | |
| Laos | Vang Vieng | Dramatic limestone karst formations, kayaking, caves, rock climbing |
| Kuang Si Falls | Multi-tiered waterfall cascading into turquoise pools | |
| Cambodia | Tonle Sap Cruise | Experience the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia |
| Cardamom Mountains | Hike through rainforests, spot wildlife (gibbons, elephants) |
Also worth mentioning are the ethical animal sanctuaries. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai and Elephant Jungle Sanctuary operate in many popular tourist destinations in Thailand. In Laos, Elephant Sanctuaries provide open spaces for the giants to roam. Wanna meet some baby bears? Cover the Bear Sanctuary at Kuangsi Waterfall in Laos with your Southeast Asia Trip Plan as well.
Hiking and trekking are becoming increasingly popular in Southeast Asia. If you appreciate the beauty of nature, consider adding an all-levels friendly trek in Sapa to your Southeast Asia trip plan in Vietnam. This trek not only showcases gorgeous terraces but also allows you to visit local villages inhabited by the Hmong people.
2 How to Choose the Most Ideal Time for Your Southeast Asia Trip
Let's start with a straightforward ballpark figure answer: the general best time for a Southeast Asia trip is from November to early April when the weather is relatively cool and dry, with abundant sunshine in most parts of Southeast Asia.
However, we have observed that the temperature in popular destinations like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai in Thailand is getting higher in April. Therefore, at Asia Odyssey Travel, we recommend that the best time to visit tropical destinations in Southeast Asia is from November to March for those who prefer cooler weather. Yet, even during the supposed rainy and hot period from May to August, we still have plenty of visitors to tropical paradises like Phuket and Ho Chi Minh.
There are also some pleasant exceptions for year-round visits in your Southeast Asia trip plan:
Koh Samui, Thailand: This island boasts good weather year-round with less rain than the mainland during the wet season (May-October). You can visit Koh Samui anytime, but May to September offers a good balance of sunshine and fewer crowds.
Northern Vietnam (Sapa, Ha Giang, Hanoi): The north experiences cooler temperatures from November to February, making it ideal for those who dislike hot weather. December and January can even be a bit refreshingly chilly, especially in mountainous areas, which is even more ideal for trekking!
Check out the Packing List for Southeast Asia Trip for different weather conditions, courtesy by Asia Odyssey Travel.
3 How Long to Spend in Southeast Asia for a Grand Tour
Thailand and Vietnam are the destinations that deserve the most time during your Southeast Asia trip. Meanwhile, Laos offers unique serene charms similar to Bhutan, being a devout Buddhist country. And of course, Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia, alone deserves a prominent place in your Southeast Asia trip planning.
In short, we at Asia Odyssey Travel suggest to spend 7-13 days in Vietnam, 5-10 days in Thailand, 3-5 days in Laos, and 3-5 days in Cambodia. With other optional extensions, expect to spend 14 to 21 days for your Southeast Asia Trip in total.
Southeast Asia Trip Planning for Vietnam (7-13 days): French Flare, Old Town Charms, Culture Dive
Hanoi (2-3 days): Get a taste of Hanoi's French colonial charm along with a cup of Vietnamese coffee to start with. Explore the bustling Old Quarter, bargain at Dong Xuan Market, and savor iconic street food like Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and Banh Mi (Vietnamese baguette). Witness the captivating dawn ritual of the One Pillar Pagoda and witness the serene beauty of Temple of Literature.
Ha Long Bay (2-3 days): Set sail on a magical cruise through Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the towering emerald green limestone pillars rising from the ocean.
Hoi An (2-3 days): Wander through Hoi An's enchanting streets adorned with colorful lanterns. Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge, a historic landmark, and get pampered with custom-made clothing at a local tailor. Take a boat trip on the Thu Bon River and witness the magic of the Hoi An Lantern Festival (held on the 14th day of each lunar month).
Ho Chi Minh City (2-3 days): Delve into Ho Chi Minh City's dynamic energy. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office, remnants of French colonial influence. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground passages used by the Viet Cong during the war. Savor delicious street Vietnamese food like Pho (noodle soup) and Banh Xeo (crispy rice pancakes).
Southeast Asia Trip Planning for Thailand (5-10 days): Foodie Delights, Island Hop
Bangkok (2-3 days): Plan your Bangkok trip with caution! Because with so many fun things to do in Bangkok, you can easily lose track of time! If so, simply add more days to your Southeast Asia trip! Visit the awe-inspiring Grand Palace, a complex of royal buildings, and Wat Pho, home to the Reclining Buddha statue. Explore the bustling Chatuchak Weekend Market and bargain for souvenirs.
Ayutthaya (1 day): Journey back in time to explore the ruins of Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Siam. Marvel at the architectural grandeur of Wat Mahathat, where a Buddha head rests entwined in the roots of a banyan tree. Take a boat trip on the Chao Phraya River and soak in the historical ambience.
Thai Cooking Class (Half-day): Learn the secrets of authentic Thai cuisine in a local cooking class, preferably in Chiang Mai, where there are the most established cooking schools in Southeast Asia. Master the art of preparing dishes like Pad Thai (stir-fried noodles) and Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup).
Beach & Island Destination (3-5 days): Choose between the bustling nightlife and vibrant beach scene of Pattaya or the stunning natural beauty and luxurious resorts of Phuket. Relax on pristine beaches, indulge in water sports like snorkeling or diving, and explore nearby islands.
Southeast Asia Trip Planning for Laos (3-5 days): Admire Devotion, Simplicity, Down-to-earth Spirit of Laotians
Luang Prabang (2-3 days): Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this UNESCO site. Explore beautiful temples, witness monks' morning alms procession, and visit Kuang Si Falls for refreshing swimming spots. How about a field trip to learn about Eco-agriculture? Living Land Farm would be your choice.
Vientiane (1-2 days): Explore the charming capital of Laos, Vientiane. Visit the Pha That Luang, a revered golden stupa, and explore the serene Wat Si Saket, the oldest temple in the city.
Vang Vieng (Optional - 1-2 days): For the adventurous, Vang Vieng offers breathtaking landscapes for rock climbing, kayaking down the Nam Song River, and exploring hidden caves like the Blue Lagoon.
Cambodia (3-5 days): Angkor Wat, A Must-visit for Your Southeast Asia Trip
Angkor Wat (2 days): Witness the architectural marvel of Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious complex. Explore the intricately carved sculptures, sprawling courtyards, and towering spires. Witness the magical sunrise or sunset views over the temple complex for an unforgettable experience.
Phnom Penh (1-2 days): Explore the Royal Palace, a symbol of Cambodian royalty. Learn about the dark history of the Khmer Rouge regime at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Central Market, a haven for souvenirs and local crafts.
For more travel inspirations, check out our curated Southeast Asia Itineraries.
4 Check Visa Policy: Not Much to Worry about for Southeast Asia Trip Planning
Visa policies won't be too much of a worry for your Southeast Asia trip, especially as a tourist. Usually, you don't need to stay in these countries for longer than the maximum length of the visa, which can be from 15 days and up to 30 days in most cases.
| Country | Visa-Free Entry | VOA | Maximum Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thailand | Up to 30 days (most nationalities) | Yes (certain nationalities) | 30 days (Visa-Free) |
| Vietnam | Up to 15 days (specific nationalities) | Yes (most nationalities) | Varies based on visa type |
| Laos | Up to 30 days (specific nationalities) | Yes (many nationalities) | Varies based on visa type |
| Cambodia | Up to 30 days (specific nationalities) | Yes (most nationalities) | 30 days |
Note: Visa requirements can change frequently. It's always best to double-check the specific requirements for your nationality and planned duration of stay.
Simply leave it all to us, the dedicated team of Asia Odyssey Travel, so you can just enjoy a grand trip through Southeast Asia! Contact us now.
5 Plan Your Transportation to & around Southeast Asia
When planning your Southeast Asia trip, consider starting and ending in Thailand or Vietnam.
These Southeast Asia countries are ideal due to their extensive international flight connections. They also boast visa-friendly policies. Additionally, their well-developed travel infrastructure ensures ease of exploration once you've arrived.
Transplantation Options within Southeast Asia for your Trip
Flights: Ideal for longer distances or tight timelines. Budget airlines like AirAsia, Viet Jet Air, and Scoot offer affordable connections within the region.
Trains: A scenic and comfortable option for some routes, particularly in Vietnam and Thailand (Bangkok to Chiang Mai).
Buses: The most affordable option, offering extensive coverage across the region. However, journeys can be long and crowded, especially on overnight routes. And there are potential bus interchanges if you take a long-distance overland bus trip.
Ferries and Boats: Perfect for island hopping and coastal travel. Popular for destinations like Ha Long Bay in Vietnam and Phi Phi Islands in Thailand.
As charming as it can get traveling within Southeast Asia can be daunting sometimes when there's no ideal direct flights or when you just need to be a bit adventurous but still concerned about the challenge in somewhat remote destinations in Southeast Asia.
Worry not, Asia Odyssey Travel can take care of it all for you. For seamless transportation and a smooth journey, simply Contact your travel expert and plan your Southeast Asia Trip.
6 Plan Your Budget for Southeast Asia: Affordable Luxury Like Nowhere Else!
One of the greatest things about Southeast Asia for travelers is that it's all budget-friendly! Whether you prefer to travel in a basic backpacker style and save money, or opt for an upscale experience where boutique ocean view villas await, you can find options not only in Thailand but also across Southeast Asia. Regardless of whether you are a budget-conscious traveler or not, you can always expect on-par service accompanied by friendly smiles.
When planning your trip to Southeast Asia, consider different budget options for your travel style. How you plan your trip will depend on your preferences and budget. Here are some suggestions:
Shoestring Backpacker (Under $40/day): This option is ideal for experienced travelers who prioritize affordability. How you plan your trip as a shoestring backpacker involves staying in hostels, enjoying mostly street food, and utilizing local transportation such as buses and overnight trains.
Mid-Range Traveler ($50-$150/day): This choice offers a good balance between affordability and comfort. How you plan your trip as a mid-range traveler allows you to stay in guesthouses or budget hotels, enjoy a mix of street food and restaurant meals, and occasionally take taxis or participate in paid activities.
Comfort Seeker (from $150/daily): If you're seeking a more relaxed and comfortable experience, this option is for you. How you plan your trip as a comfort seeker involves staying in mid-range or boutique hotels, enjoying a wider variety of dining options, participating in more tours and activities, and opting for faster transportation options like flights.
Note: These are just estimates, and your actual costs may vary depending on your Southeast Asia itinerary, choices, and time of your visit. Travel costs for high season and low season may vary greatly.
To make the most of your travel spending simply Contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel, get the exclusive insider package deals, and enjoy a smooth journey all the way in Southeast Asia!
7 Pack Accordingly for Your Southeast Asia Trip
Southeast Asia is a vast region with diverse climates and various things to do. Packing essentials may vary according to your travel plan.
Here are things to consider for your packing list:
- Light & Breathable Clothing: Pack for hot weather (cotton, linen). Opt for loose-fitting clothes.
- Rain Gear (Optional): Light rain jacket or poncho for rainy season (May-Oct).
- Essentials: T-shirts, shorts, pants, sarong, underwear, socks, swimsuit, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, quick-dry towel, first-aid kit.
- Electronics: Portable charger, adapters, consider offline maps and travel apps.
- Documents: Copies of passport, travel insurance, important documents.
- Research Destination: Adjust packing list for specific locations, hiking boots for mountains, beach outfits for tropical islands.
Find out more detailed Packing list Packing List for Southeast Asia.
8 How to Travel Ethically with Your Southeast Asia Trip?
Keep Ethical Travel in Mind When Planning Your Southeast Asia Tour
Choose Responsible Animal Tourism: Instead of supporting exploitative activities, such as elephant rides, choose to visit ethical elephant sanctuaries and conservation parks that prioritize the well-being of the animals.
Show Respect for Cultural and Religious Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and always seek permission before taking photographs of people.
Contribute to the Local Economy: Support the local community by patronizing family-owned accommodations, street-food vendors, and local artisans. This ensures that your travel expenditures directly benefit the local economy.
Minimize Environmental Impact: Reduce the use of single-use plastics whenever possible. Carry a reusable water bottle and consider using a metal or bamboo straw during your travels.
Volunteer Responsibly: If you decide to volunteer, choose organizations that have transparent and positive impacts on the community. Avoid those that exploit vulnerable populations for profit.
At Asia Odyssey Travel, we don't offer tours with elephant rides. Instead, we specialize in tours to ethical animal sanctuaries. With our well-established network, we collaborate with our local team and businesses to promote sustainable and responsible tourism in Southeast Asia. Join us for an epic and ethical Southeast Asia trip. Get in touch with travel expert now!
Asia Odyssey Travel, Your Best Travel Mate in Southeast Asia
Your journey through Southeast Asia can be truly epic, enriched with endless possibilities and filled with Best Things to Do!
Stand in awe in front of the splendor of Bangkok's jewel-encrusted temple, Wat Phra Kaew, in Thailand, a radiant testament to religious faith. Traverse the verdant rice terraces near Sapa in Vietnam, a UNESCO wonder shaped by countless generations of farmers. In Laos, observe the daily alms-giving ceremony in Luang Prabang, a lively custom that offers insight into Buddhist principles. Discover the magnificent Angkor Wat complex in Cambodia, the world's most expansive religious monument, and tread where ancient civilizations once stood.
Southeast Asia Fun, Worry-free Tour with Asia Odyssey Travel!
- Authentic Experience: Full Southeast Asia experience with local guides
- Genuine Service: Crafted itinerary by seasoned travel experts
- Travel Made Easy: Flights, hotels, activities - all taken care of!
- 24/7 Support: Peace of mind throughout your trip
Contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel, start your Southeast Asia Tour!
If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.
Data in submission...
