Exploring the Wonders of South East Asia: A Must-Visit for All Ages
- Chris Colston
- Feb 8, 2024
- 7 min read
I must preface this blog by acknowledging a slight bias, as South East Asia (SEA) holds a very special place in my heart. However, I truly believe everything I say is accurate, stemming from the stories and experiences I've had during my multiple trips there, as well as from the perspectives I've heard from others.
In this blog, I will share the reasons why SEA is a must-visit for travellers and explorers of all ages. If you haven't been yet, you'll want to after reading this!
South East Asia
South East Asia, nestled in the South Eastern region of Asia, lies between India, Sri Lanka, China, and Australia. This area comprises eleven countries, each with its own diverse history, culture, and religion: Brunei, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Timor-Leste, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
I consider myself very fortunate to have travelled extensively across most of these SEA regions at different times. My initial journey began right after school, embarking on a 10-month adventure that took me to Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.
As a young, eager 19-year-old, I dived into a variety of activities and experiences. Since then, I've returned to Thailand on two more occasions, once with family and another time with a friend. Thus, my broad range of experiences gives me a solid grasp of what the majority of SEA has to offer.
Reflecting on my personal moments, I'll share why I believe SEA isn't just for young travellers seeking an affordable holiday, but also a must-visit paradise for people of all ages.
Affordability
Regardless of age, whether you're a solo traveller or part of a large family, budget plays a crucial role in choosing a destination. While not the only draw, the affordability of Southeast Asia (SEA) is a major appeal, especially when compared to the UK and other Western nations. The cost-effectiveness of SEA can offset the initial flight expense through its lower cost of living. To illustrate, in 2016, I spent around £300 for a one-way flight to Bangkok. By 2023, the price for a round trip had risen to approximately £850, which covered my month-long remote working stint on the quaint island of Koh Tao.
Such pricing is on par with other long-haul destinations, with potential for great deals depending on the season. It's worth noting that SEA experiences peak times around the New Year, influenced by its tropical climate. South America is often paralleled with SEA in terms of flight and living expenses. The distinction lies in the high cost of living in other destinations like the Caribbean, the USA, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, which, unlike SEA, doesn't offset the flight cost, making extended stays more financially viable. For example, my earnings during a month's remote work in Koh Tao covered my flight costs.
Beyond flights, SEA offers affordable options for accommodations, local transportation, and everyday expenses. The region boasts a variety of budget-friendly transport methods, including domestic flights, boats, and overnight sleeper trains and buses. For instance, I enjoyed a sleeper train journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and a sleeper bus ride in Vietnam, both economical and unique experiences. Although less appealing to older travellers or families, domestic flights remain inexpensive, emphasising the ease of travel once in SEA.
Accommodation prices in SEA are significantly lower than those in more renowned destinations, with options ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. During my travels, I managed to stretch approximately £3,000 over four months, spending an average of £7-£10 per night on clean, modern, social yet private hostels. Street food, another highlight, offered incredible freshness and flavour for as little as 50p to £3. This affordability contrasts sharply with my experience in Australia, where accommodation and dining were considerably more expensive. SEA's affordability, therefore, stands out as a key reason it's a must-visit destination for travellers of all ages.
Language Barrier
The language barrier in Southeast Asia (SEA) is minimal, which is particularly advantageous for English speakers, including those from the UK. During my travels across various SEA countries, I was pleasantly surprised by the widespread proficiency in English among the locals. This made communication easy, whether I needed directions, wanted to learn about their culture, or had questions about local customs.
In contrast, other regions, such as South America, don't offer this convenience. There, a grasp of Spanish is almost essential, as English is not as commonly spoken. This stark difference makes SEA an attractive destination for those of us who are not fluent in Spanish.
I encountered situations where I needed assistance or found myself lost, particularly in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Bali. In every instance, the locals were incredibly supportive and accommodating. Their ability to communicate in English significantly eased navigation, making Tuk-Tuks a convenient transport option, thanks largely to the local people's language skills.
Planning a trip to South America, Central America, Africa, or other parts of Asia might present challenges without knowledge of the local languages and customs. While making an effort to speak the local language is both helpful and respectful, SEA locals are generally eager to communicate in English and offer help when needed. This accessibility is a major factor in making travel in SEA a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
Diverse Activities
SEA offers an abundance of activities, from adventurous to serene, all made more accessible by the region's affordability. My adventures there included trekking through Northern Thailand's hill tribes, bathing and feeding elephants at a sanctuary in Chiang Mai, taking a slow boat across the Mekong River, marvelling at Halong Bay's beauty, and island hopping in the south, all on a budget.
The diversity of landscapes ensures there's always something new to explore, from the tranquillity of the south to the bustling urban jungles of the north, appealing to travellers of any age.
In SEA, you'll experience a sense of freedom where not all rules are strictly followed, and personal decisions shape your adventure. Whether it's daringly crossing Hanoi's busy roads amid agile bikers or exploring an island on a scooter, these experiences built my confidence and enriched my travels.
Laos and Cambodia, often overshadowed by their more well-known neighbours like Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali, are true hidden gems. The serene beauty of the Mekong River in Laos and the warm, welcoming nature of the Cambodian people, despite their country's difficult history, offer profound and peaceful experiences. From tubing in Vang Vieng to exploring the ancient ruins and picturesque landscapes of Cambodia, SEA's diverse activities cater to every traveller's desire for exploration and discovery.
Cultural Richness and History
Continuing with the theme of cultural immersion, Cambodia offered profound historical insights, especially regarding the tragic era under Pol Pot's Khmer Rouge dictatorship. My visit to the capital, Phnom Penh, was eye-opening, where I witnessed the remnants of jails and torture sites, and the haunting Killing Fields where mass executions occurred. Despite its painful past, Cambodia is also a land of rich history and beauty, as seen in my journey north to Siem Reap to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Angkor Wat temples, a testament to Cambodia's ancient architectural marvel.
Vietnam presented a similar blend of beauty and historical gravity. In Ho Chi Minh City, I delved into the Vietnam War's complex history, learning about the nation's resilience against both communism and foreign intervention. The Cu Chi tunnels, a network of underground paths used by Viet Cong soldiers, offered a tangible connection to the war's guerrilla warfare tactics.
Thailand's contribution to cultural richness is epitomised in its Buddhist temples. From the majestic Wat Arun in Bangkok to the serene Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai, these sacred sites are not just architectural wonders but also hubs of spiritual life, offering insight into Thailand's religious practices and the daily lives of its monks.
The culinary landscape of Southeast Asia is another highlight, with local cuisines that are a riot of flavours. Street food in Thailand, such as Pad Thai, offers a delicious introduction to the region's food culture. For the more adventurous, sampling a scorpion or tarantula becomes a memorable experience. Vietnam's Pho and fresh spring rolls, costing as little as 50p, exemplify the region's ability to deliver gourmet experiences at a fraction of the cost.
These dishes, rich in history and flavour, are indispensable to understanding Southeast Asia's cultural identity.
Warmth of the Locals
In conclusion, the people of Southeast Asia truly deserve the highest praise. Despite the adversities faced in countries like Cambodia and Vietnam, the locals' welcoming spirit and joy for life are unmistakable. This genuine warmth and friendliness make a visit to Southeast Asia uniquely special.
Their eagerness for visitors to immerse in their culture and enjoy their homeland is precisely why I opted to spend a month there, working amidst the laid-back lifestyle and amiable locals. My travels through Southeast Asia saw me fall ill a few times; in Malaysia, fearing I had contracted dengue fever, I was touched by the kindness of a hostel owner who cared for me with fresh coconuts. Similarly, in Thailand, the medical care I received was compassionate and thorough.
My experience teaching English to children in Cambodia was heart warming, witnessing first hand the happiness and gratitude of the young learners. Such experiences underscore the importance of respecting local customs and traditions.
Whether it's knowing when to wear a sarong or the best time to visit a temple, embracing the region's diversity with an open heart and mind enriches the journey. Avoid overplanning to let serendipitous recommendations guide your next adventure. Embrace the variety of transportation options to experience the landscape from multiple perspectives.
Southeast Asia's slightly different set of rules, where almost anything goes, offers a refreshing departure from the consumer-driven lifestyle back home, drawing you into a more authentic way of living. It's raw, invigorating, and a breath of fresh air, making Southeast Asia a transformative destination for travellers of any age or budget.
This is why Southeast Asia stands out as an essential exploration, revealing a life enriched by simplicity, warmth, and a deep connection to the land and its people.
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