Top places and experiences in South East Asia

TH, MY, SG, LA, KH, PH, ID, VN – ’22-’25

Bangkok: the megacity is a place you love or hate. I personally enjoyed it a lot. Hostel rec: Time Sabai 32 Hostel

Khao Sok National Park

Chiang Dao for off the beaten track

Kuala Lumpur (KL): Petronas Towers, Petaling Street Market, Chow Kit Road Market

Malakka: Jonker Street Night Market, Malacca River Walk, Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum, Masjid Selat Melaka

While this is definitely the most expensive destination in the region, it can be done on a budget: check this post for an in-depth guide.

My highlights: Gardens by the bay, Merlion, Sky Garden at Capita Spring

Eateries: Hawker Centres & food courts like “Lau Pa Sat”

Vientiane: Mekong River Banks, Patuxai, Kung’s Cafe Lao, (French Medical Center for good doctors!)

Luang Prabang: Night market, cafes and day trips to waterfalls.

Nong Khiaw & Muang Ngoy: exploring the real countryside.

Pakse & Bolaven Plateau: pleasant weather and friendly locals.

Don Det: paradise in the middle of the Mekong.

Kratie: Mekong River Walk. **there are no river dolphins anymore!

Phnom Penh: Tuol-Sleng-Genocide Museum + Killing fields (well-made, but hard to digest!)

Siem Reap: Angkor Wat, Phnom Kulen National Park, rent a tuktuk for a day to visit temples in the area.

Battambang: Bat Cave + Bamboo train day trip, Romcheik 5 Artspace & Café

Koh Rong Sanloem: M-Pai Bay (The Cliff Hostel). Get there via Sihanoukville, no need to stay in the city.

Night Trains are a great option in Thailand. Second class sleeper berths are reasonably priced. Book online or buy a ticket at the major stations.
In Malaysia, inland flights and overland buses are preferred modes of transport.
Overland crossing from Malaysia to Singapore is relatively hassle-free. Singapore has great metro + bus system.
Laos is less developed than neighbouring countries. Read this post for an example of transportation available.
Cambodia: only cross overland borders if you have plenty of time and patience. Night buses in the country are comfortable. Ferries to the island may not run due to bad weather.
Cebu (PH) is relatively easily accessible by public transportation & Grab. If you’re on a budget make sure to avoid tourist vans.
In Bali Grab is a good option if you don’t drive. For Lombok renting a scooter is definitely advisable. Pick up services from airport and ferry terminals exist but are pricey.
Vietnamese sleeper night busses are probably the most comfortable I ever took. Too explore rural areas like Ha Giang, Cao Bang & Sa Pa renting a scooter is highly recommended.