For the longest time, Southeast Asia has been a popular destination for budget-conscious tourists that want to get the most out of their dollar and couple this with a magnificent experience. The region is filled with luxurious and affordable hotels, taste-boggling cuisines, and a wide array of beaches and historical sites. Southeast Asia is it if you want to go to one place that offers you a superstar experience without having to globetrot. Even better is because you would not have to spend as much as you would in some of the other destinations.
Before you pack up and hit the airport, there are some facts that you should be aware of that would come a long way in helping you be a more prepared tourist and make the most of your time down south.
1. Hotels
For most tourists, the greatest challenge that they face is accommodation. This can be superbly expensive in some destinations with very little to offer. Luckily, Southeast Asia is different from most of the other destinations. Accommodation can be as little as $2 a night in a guesthouse with a mattress on the floor if you feel like splashing on better accommodation, start with Traveloka.com, where you can find various options. The best part is that hotels are affordable and give you value for your money.
2. Food
Most people will travel to get a taste of the different cuisines that different regions have to offer. Eating in Southeast Asia is going to be one of the best experiences. You can eat on the streets, in restaurants, and even in hotels. The region has a fantastic array of cuisines, and there are very high chances of getting dining guides written in English because of the frequency of such tourists. This makes your experience here much more lovable and easier, especially in the hospitality industry.
3. Cheap
Want a place where you can stretch your buck? This is it. For about a dollar or two, you can get accommodation. Decent food will set you back below one dollar and getting here is not expensive either. Southeast Asia would be your best bet if you want a low-budget destination that will not see you wipe your bank account to have a good time.
4. Flights
Flights to and within the region are relatively cheap. One of the local flights even offers a pass that you can use to go back and forth up to ten times for just $160. The flights are frequent and you should choose your destination carefully for better planning especially when you intend to visit a bunch of the countries.
5. Border crossings
You will have access to other countries like Thailand, Singapore, Timor-Leste, and many others in the region. The best means to cross from one country to the next is to use the night-time buses that get you across for next to nothing. The roads are decent enough for travel, and even though it might be a long ride, you get to save a lot.
6. Temples
One of the region’s primary attractions is the great and ancient temples, some of which are still inhabited by monks. From Angkor Wat, the largest temple with a mind-blowing history, to the Golden Urn, which houses the remains of a Buddha, Temples in southeast Asia are the best place if you’re hunting for nerve-chilling historical stories and facts.
7. Islands and beaches
Southeast Asia has a great number of beaches and islands. Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago with over 17,000 islands. And that is just one country. Beaches and parties are the main reasons people visit Southeast Asia. Hence, you can rest assured you will have enough of those.
8. Visas
Before visiting, you should know the countries that you intend to visit. Despite them being in the same region, the visa requirements differ. For instance, if you’re staying less than 30 days in Thailand, you can get a 30-day stamp. Countries like Cambodia and Laos will charge you $20 and $35 for the visa. In countries like Vietnam, you have to get a visa beforehand. You can also apply for a visa on arrival before you leave. Just be sure to understand the visa terms in your country of choice.
9. Seasons of travel
Even though the region is the same, the weather patterns are as diverse as the islands and mountains that flock to the region. While it might be a dry season in Phuket, Koh Samui is experiencing monsoons. The travel season will depend on the areas you would like to visit. In most of the areas, January is the best time. For Indonesia and Koh Samui, April to October are great months to visit. You should check on the weather patterns of your desired destination countries to pick out the best time to visit.
10. Buddhism
Buddhism is a large part of the history and presence of most of the countries in the Southeast Asia region. In countries like Thailand, every male is expected to be a Buddhist monk at a certain time. It is not only a religion but also a great piece of the history upon which the great temples and history of the region are built.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a backpacker or a tourist that is looking for a great time, without a doubt, the Southeast region of Asia will be most appealing to you. From the elephant rides to the scenic beauty that is Halong Bay, the white and sandy beaches in Ko Phra Thong, and the biodiverse Borneo Rainforest, the region has an excellent surprise waiting to be discovered neatly tied for every anxious tourist.
Hey, I’m Grace Williams, the voice behind thedaleguild.com – a travel blog that’s all about discovering new destinations and sharing unique experiences. I’m an avid traveler with a passion for adventure and storytelling, and my writing aims to transport readers to far-off places and inspire them to explore the world. Whether I’m backpacking through Europe or sipping coffee in a quaint café, I’m always on the lookout for the next great adventure. Join me on my journey and get inspired to embark on your own at thedaleguild.com.
