While traveling is a passion for many, the reason for traveling may not be the same for all. Some travel to rest and rewind, while there are others who seek adventure during their travel. Viewing dramatic landscapes is something that some people enjoy, whereas others travel to meet new people and learn about new cultures. There are also people who love to travel to taste different types of cuisines. As a citizen or resident of Dubai or UAE, you may be someone who would want to experience a few of these. If you want a change from the hustle and bustle of Dubai and want to take a break from the dry climate of the city, a holiday in Southeast Asia would be a good idea.
Why Travel to Southeast Asia?
Southeast Asia is a group of 11 countries that is located on eastern side of the Asian continent, south of China and east of India. It is a mix of mainland countries and island nations that are known for their beautiful and dramatic landscapes, gorgeous beaches, warm hospitality, and deep rooted culture. The countries of Southeast Asia would not disappoint people who are looking for both adventure and leisure. From bustling cities to serene remote locations, the Southeast Asian countries are full of surprises and wonder. The landscapes of Southeast Asia are a far cry from that of Dubai, making it the perfect holiday location if you are seeking a change for a few days. Here we present to you 10 best Southeast Asian countries to visit and the reasons to visit them.
Top 10 Southeast Asian Countries to Visit for Every Type of Traveler
1. Thailand
Why to Visit: From vibrant cities to serene beaches, Thailand is the ideal destination for those who want to have fun and at the same time relax. Most people go for Bangkok packages that include all the popular attractions of this bustling city. While Bangkok will not fail to entertain you, there is much more to Thailand than its capital. The pristine beaches of Krabi, Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Samui will not fail to awe you. Apart from admiring the beauty of the places, you can also indulge in numerous water adventures, especially scuba diving and snorkeling. To know more about the culture of the country, a visit to Chiang Mai and Ayutthaya is a must.
Flight Time from Dubai: 6+hours
Visa Information: UAE residents are eligible for e-visa in Thailand
Currency: Thai Baht
Best Time to Visit: November to February – when the weather is cool and dry
Insider Tip: Respecting the royalty, the monks, and the national anthem is of immense importance in Thailand. Moreover, it is necessary to follow the temple etiquette.
Budget for a Day: AED 300-AED 600
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Featured 2 . Malaysia
Why to Visit: The unique blend of Chinese, Indian, Malay, and numerous indigenous cultures is what make Malaysia one of the best countries to visit in Southeast Asia. The capital is quite popular tourist destination, and picking one of the Kuala Lumpur tour packages will let you explore all the important attractions in the city, including the Petronas Towers, Batu Caves, and more. Malaysia is also known for its natural beauty, as the country is endowed with verdant rainforests and gorgeous beaches with emerald green waters. Adventurous activities are available in the form of white-water rafting, rock climbing, jungle trekking, etc. Moreover, Malaysia is quite affordable.
Flight Time from Dubai: 7+ hours
Visa Information: UAE residents are eligible for Malaysia e-visa
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit
Best Time to Visit: December to March (West Coast) and April to October (East Coast)
Insider Tip: Malaysia has a warm weather throughout the year, so pack comfortable cotton clothes. Dress modestly, especially while visiting religious places.
Budget for a Day: AED 370
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Featured 3. Indonesia
Why to Visit: A large archipelago with thousands of islands, Indonesia is another interesting Southeast Asian countries to visit. The first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of Indonesia is its finest island, Bali. A popular honeymoon destination, Bali is known for its lush rice paddy fields, splendid ancient temples, beautiful beaches, and amazing nightlife. Watersports are also quite popular in Bali. If you are visiting Bali, Ubud, Kuta, Nusa Dua, and Sanur are some of the places that will be included in your Bali tour packages. Some other places that you can include in Indonesian itinerary are Jakarta, Mount Bromo, Borneo, Lombok, Flores, Gili Islands, and more.
Flight Time from Dubai: 8+ hours
Visa Information: UAE residents can apply for Indonesia e-visa
Currency: Indonesian Rupiah
Best Time to Visit: May to September
Insider Tip: Bargaining is accepted in Indonesia while shopping. But it is important to be kind and respectful while bargaining. Moreover, carry cash, as not all places (especially remote areas) accept credit cards.
Budget for a Day: AED 250-AED 700
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Featured 4. Singapore
Why Visit: Although it is the smallest country in the region, Singapore is one of the most popular countries in Southeast Asia. Although tiny, the city-state is brimming with attractions. Singapore is home to some amazing landmarks, Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay being the most popular ones. But you cannot define Singapore as a concrete jungle. The city has some of the most amazing green spaces, including the Singapore Botanic Gardens, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Apart from all this, Singapore’s ethnic pockets like Little India, Chinatown, and Arab Street talk about its multicultural heritage. The culinary scene of Singapore is also worth exploring. Booking Singapore holiday packages would help you plan your itinerary.
Flight Time from Dubai: 7+ hours
Visa Information: To get a Singapore visa from Dubai, you need to apply through the Singapore Consulate or visa center in Dubai. A reputed visa agent can also help you with this.
Currency: Singapore Dollar
Best Time to Visit: February to April
Insider Tip: Singapore public transportation is easy, affordable, and efficient. Hence, use it to explore the city. Also, be prepared for rain, as it is can rain anytime in the city-state.
Budget for a Day: AED 999 to AED 2700
5. Cambodia
Why to Visit: Ancient history, antique temples, deep-rooted culture, and a rich history are what await you in Cambodia. If there is only one thing you can visit in Cambodia, it has to be Angkor Wat, a huge temple complex with temples that have been declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some other temples to visit in this country are Ta Prohm, Bayon, Banteay Srei, etc. Apart from temples, Cambodia is also known for its wonderful beaches, beautiful lakes and rivers, lush green forests, and diverse wildlife. Adventure activities like kayaking, camping, and hiking are also available in Cambodia.
Flight Time from Dubai: 13+ hours (no direct flights)
Visa Information: Dubai residents are eligible for Cambodia e-visa
Currency: Cambodian Riel
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Insider Tip: It is best to carry US dollars in cash, as most establishment accepts the currency. However, carrying the local currency is also a good idea for small purchases.
Budget for a Day: AED 360 to AED 550
6 . Vietnam
Why to Visit: Dramatic limestone karsts, picturesque beaches, beautiful rice terraces, and stunning emerald green waters are a few things that come to mind when we think of Vietnam. A must visit place here is the capital of the country, Hanoi. The Hanoi packages will cover the most crucial spots like Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature, the Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Museum, Water Puppet Theatre, and more. The city is also known for its beaches, night markets, street food, etc. Apart from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Ninh Binh, Hue, Da Nang, Mekong Delta, etc., are some other places to visit here.
Flight Time from Dubai: 6.5+ hours
Visa Information: Visa on arrival (with pre-approval) and e-visa are available for Dubai residents visiting Vietnam.
Currency: Vietnamese Dong
Best Time to Visit: March to April (Northern and Central Vietnam) and November to April (Southern Vietnam)
Insider Tip: Vietnam has an amazing street food life, and you must definitely try it. Also, do try the egg coffee, which is a combination of coffee and dessert.
Budget for a Day: AED 238 to AED 670
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Featured 7 . Laos
Why to Visit: The only land-locked country in Southeast Asia, Laos is known for its tranquil and peaceful environment. The unspoiled natural beauty is what attracts people to Laos. Be it its jungles, mountains, waterfalls, or rivers, the landscapes of Laos are nothing less than awe-inspiring. Luang Prabang with its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Vang Vieng with its limestone caves and cliffs, Vientiane with its historical sites and temples, Si Phan Don with its group of islands on the Mekong River, Bolaven Plateau with beautiful waterfalls and vast coffee plantations are some of the places you can visit here. Apart from sightseeing, Laos is also known for its adventure activities like trekking, rock climbing, kayaking, tubing, cave exploration, and more.
Flight Time from Dubai: 9+ hours
Visa Information: E-visa is available for UAE residents. Laos visa on arrival is also available when entering through few of the entry ports.
Currency: Laotian Kip
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Insider Tip: It is important to wear modest clothes in Laos, especially while visiting religious places. Haggling or bargaining is a norm in the country.
Budget for a Day: AED 150 – AED 300
8 . Myanmar
Why Visit: The largest country in Southeast Asia after Indonesia is Myanmar. Also known as Burma, Myanmar is steeped in history, culture, and heritage. The Buddhist temples here, especially in Bagan, are the star attractions of Myanmar. A hot air balloon ride over the city is one of the most breathtaking ways to enjoy the view of these temples. Apart from this, the floating villages of Inle Lake, the beautiful surroundings of Ngpali Beach, the colonial architecture and vibrant markets of Yangon, and the historical sites of Mandalay are some of the places you must visit in Myanmar. Riding the Yangon Circular Train is an activity that you should not miss when visiting this country.
Flight Time from Dubai: 6+ hours
Visa Information: Myanmar e-visa is available for all UAE residents
Currency: Myanmar Kyat
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Insider Tip: It is important to carry cash when traveling in Myanmar, as not many establishments in the country accept credit cards.
Budget for a Day: AED 100
9. Brunei
Why Visit: Although Brunei is not as popular as Southeast Asian holiday destinations, it is worth visiting. A relatively small country, Brunei is endowed with natural beauty that can be enjoyed and admired with a visit to its numerous national parks, which include lush green forests. The country is also known for its architectural marvels, especially mosques. Omar Ali Saifudieen Mosque, Istana Narul Iman (the Sultan’s Palace), and Jame’ Asr Hassani Bolkiah Mosque are some of the must visit attractions here. Brunei is also where you can enjoy some thrilling water sports like windsurfing, jet skiing, etc. But apart from everything else, Brunei is a place where you must go when you want to relax, rejuvenate, and unwind.
Flight Time from Dubai: 8+ hours
Visa Information: UAE or Dubai residents can apply for Brunei visa as per their nationality
Currency: Brunei Dollar
Best Time to Visit: January to May and October to December
Insider Tip: Alcohol is banned in Brunei, although tourists can bring a limited amount of alcohol into the country for consumption. However, alcohol can be consumed privately only.
Budget for a Day: AED 220 to AED 370
10 . Philippines
Why Visit: The country with 7000 islands, Philippines is a dream destination for those looking forward to a beach holiday. With the beaches are endowed with fine white sand and crystal-clear, turquoise waters, Philippines also has a rich underwater life. This is one of the best places for snorkeling and scuba diving. Other than this, you can enjoy the beautiful sights of hidden waterfalls, underground rivers, lush rice terraces, majestic volcanoes, and more. Philippines also has rich culture, which you can enjoy through its numerous religious and harvest festivals. Some of the best places to visit Philippines include Boracay, Palawan, Ceby, Manila, etc.
Flight Time from Dubai: 9+ hours
Visa Information: Dubai residents can visit Philippines with an e-visa
Currency: Philippine Peso
Best Time to Visit: December to May
Insider Tip: If you are going island hopping, book early morning tours to avoid the crowds and explore the islands in peace.
Budget for a Day: AED 280 to AED 720
Travel Tips for Southeast Asia
- It is best to visit Southeast Asia during the dry season, which is mostly the same for all the countries.
- Pack breathable clothes, as the weather is warm and humid in most of these countries.
- Do not try to cramp all the Southeast Asian countries in one visit. Stick to one or maximum two countries at a time.
- It is important to check the visa regulations for UAE residents and different nations and apply for the visa accordingly.
- Do not forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and inspect repellent while traveling to Southeast Asia.
- Do not forget to keep drinking water while exploring the countries.
- Avoid drinking tap water in Southeast Asian countries. Stick to bottled water. It is best to avoid ice in places you think are unsafe.
- While traveling between cities of the same country, it is best to opt for flights, as domestic flights are cheaper in these countries.
- Most of these countries are rooted in tradition and religion. Hence, it is best to be respectful. Wear modest clothes while traveling to religious places.
- While most of these countries are safe, petty crimes are rampant, especially in crowded areas. Hence, be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings safe at all times.
Conclusion
Now that you know where to go in Southeast Asia, it is time to select the place that appeals to you the most and start planning your holiday. Whichever place you choose, you are sure to have a memorable time during your Southeast Asian holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
