Travel to Southeast Asia: complete guide and essential tips

Southeast Asia is one of the most popular destinations for those who want to explore rich cultures, exotic landscapes and incredible cuisine. If you're planning your trip to Southeast Asia, this guide offers the best tips, unmissable destinations and a travel itinerary that you can adapt to suit your duration.

What you'll find here:

Why travel to Southeast Asia?

7 must-see destinations for your trip to Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia travel itinerary: 20 to 30 days

Tips for a trip to Southeast Asia

Frequently asked questions about traveling to Southeast Asia

Why travel to Southeast Asia?

• Rich and diverse culture: Southeast Asia is known for its fascinating history, Buddhist temples and a huge variety of cultures and religions.
  
  
• Affordability: One of the biggest advantages of traveling to this region is the economy. The cost of living is lower, which makes the trip very affordable.
  
  
• Idyllic landscapes: Tropical beaches, exotic islands, mountains and vibrant cities make Southeast Asia a dream destination for nature and adventure lovers.

7 must-see destinations for your trip to Southeast Asia

1. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is the gateway to Southeast Asia. Visit Buddhist temples such as Wat Pho and Wat Arun, explore the local markets and enjoy Thai cuisine. A city full of life and energy!

2. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap is the starting point for exploring the Angkor complex, home to the famous Angkor Wat, the largest religious temple in the world. This is one of the most emblematic destinations in Southeast Asia.

3. Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi offers a unique combination of culture, history and gastronomy. Be sure to visit Hoan Kiem Lake, the Museum of Ethnology and explore the city's old streets.

4. Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An is a small, picturesque town, famous for its colorful streets and old houses. It's the perfect place for those who want a more peaceful experience in Vietnam, while enjoying the beaches and local cuisine.

5. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur is a cosmopolitan city that mixes modernity with Malaysian tradition. Explore the Petronas Towers, visit markets and get to know the city's vibrant life.

6. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is synonymous with tropical beaches, Buddhist temples and a rich culture. An ideal destination for relaxing and exploring its diverse landscapes, from the rice paddies of Ubud to the beaches of Kuta and Seminyak.

7. Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang is a peaceful and charming destination, where you can explore Buddhist temples, take boat trips and live the quiet life on the banks of the Mekong River.

Southeast Asia travel itinerary: 20 to 30 days

20-day itinerary

If you have 20 days for your trip to Southeast Asia, you can divide your time between Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos, taking the opportunity to explore the big cities, historic temples and exotic beaches.

• Bangkok (4 days)
• Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai (3 days)
• Siem Reap (3 days)
• Hanoi and Halong Bay (5 days)
• Vientiane and Luang Prabang (5 days)

30-day itinerary

With 30 days, you can explore more destinations and dedicate more time to each location, allowing for a deeper and more relaxing experience.

• Bangkok (4 days)
• Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai (4 days)
• Siem Reap (3 days)
• Phnom Penh (2 days)
• Hanoi and Halong Bay (5 days)
• Hoi An and Hue (4 days)
• Kuala Lumpur (4 days)
• Bali (4 days)

Tips for a trip to Southeast Asia

• Stay in hostels and guesthouses: Southeast Asia has a huge range of affordable accommodation suitable for backpackers.
  
  
• Eat like a local: Take the opportunity to try the street food, which is delicious and cheap.
  
  
• Travel cheaply: Use public transport or buses to get between cities. It's a cheap and authentic way to see Southeast Asia.
  
  
  

Frequently asked questions about traveling to Southeast Asia:

🔹 How much does a trip to Southeast Asia cost?
A trip to Southeast Asia can vary depending on the style of travel.

🔹 When is the best time to travel to Southeast Asia?
The best time is between November and February, when the climate is milder and drier, especially in Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia.

🔹 Do I need a visa to travel to Southeast Asia?
Depending on the country, you may need a visa, but many countries offer visas on arrival or visa-free travel for tourists.

We've put together some tips to make the most of your Southeast Asian adventure, whether it's a short 20-day trip or a longer 30-day itinerary. Now is the time to start preparing for your trip and make sure you have the protection you need for each stage. With Just in Case, you can easily take out travel insurance, create checklists so you don't forget anything and find useful tips in our webapp to help you find your way around your destinations. Take a Just in Case and set off with peace of mind to discover the temples, beaches and vibrant cities of this fascinating region!