Best Countries To Visit in South-East Asia

Vietnam, a country nestled in Eastern Asia is known for its peaceful and serene environment. Once haunted by the bloodshed and strife of Vietnam War, today, the streets of the country abuzz with youthful energy, mopeds zooming through the roads, floating markets and paddy fields adding to its overall charms. Oozing overwhelming natural beauty and rich heritage, the country takes you on a journey through ancient architecture and vibrant culture making it one of the best countries in south-east Asia to visit. Visit the spectacular rocky islands of Ha Long Bay, cruise along the Mekong River, explore caves in Phong Nha, and slurp on some of the best Pho noodles in Ha Noi!

Known For : Gardens by the Bay Sentosa Island Universal Studios Singapore

Representing the spirit of modern Asia, Singapore is a progressive country where one can witness the vibrant fusion of cultures, ethnicity, communities and most importantly, people. Singapore is one of the best countries in south-east Asia and is a complete package full of excitement, surprises and charm, especially for the first time visitors. Expensive as compared to other South-Eastern Asian countries, the city offers a plethora of other options for entertainment such as Sentosa Island, Singapore Zoo, Botanic Garden, Marina Bay Sands, Tiger Balm Garden, Night Market etc.

Best Time: January to November

270 Singapore Attractions

Thailand is a country that has managed to retain its cultural integrity in spite of being one of the best countries in south-east Asia. You can find everything here - pristine beaches, coral reefs, dense forests, ancient monasteries, Buddhist monks, floating markets and food to treat your taste buds. The people of Thailand are some of the most hospitable people you will meet, which only adds to the charm of this place. Thailand is one of the best party destinations in South East Asia. From pub hopping in Bangkok, cruise parties in Phi Phi and insane full moon parties in Ko Pha-Ngan, Thailand has something for everyone.

Made up of over seventeen thousand tiny islands sprawled across the Indian and Pacific Oceans, Indonesia is the world's largest island country. With over 100,000 kms of pristine shoreline, the adrenaline pumping Komodo Islands, spirited cities such as Yogyakarta in Java, to over 400 volcanoes 129 active volcanos), Indonesia is one of the best countries in south-east Asia. Indonesia's most famous island, Bali is the best place for any tourist who needs a week of absolute relaxation, fragrant cuisine, scenic beauty and a galore of culture and tradition. With its elaborate temples, endless coastline, scenic coral reefs, waterfalls and retreats, Bali is indeed, a place of leisure and idyll, and simultaneously, a place for the adventurous and the explorers.

Cambodia is a country steeped in history. In spite of years and years of struggle, the country has emerged today as a nation with an infectious spirit seen in its people and a tourism business that is flourishing. Home of the famous Angkor Wat and numerous other temples, this country is intoxicating in its beauty, to say the least. Apart from the historical and the cultural, Cambodia is also urbane, boasting of beautiful Phnom Penh, its capital, and tonnes of restaurants serving delicious cuisine. Cambodia is an amalgamation of the old and the new and a gentle reminder that the two can indeed co-exist and do it graciously.

Phillipines is one of the least explored countries in South East Asia considering it's rich biodiversity. The Philippines is a paradise for wildlife, nature and adventure lovers. The country offers crystal clear seas along mountainous islands making it ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving. The archipelago of the Philippines consists of about 7,500 islands with endless white sand beaches and extensive national parks. Major tourist attractions include Boracay island with its offshore coral reefs, the mesmerizing El Nido in Palawan island, and Banaue Rice Terraces. Just as the rest of South East Asia, the Philippines enjoys a warm tropical climate and low cost of living making it one of the best countries in south-east Asia to visit.

Malaysia is actually Asia in the true sense. The extremely diverse Malaysia is like two countries clubbed into one separated in half by the South China Sea. While one side if Malaysia is the peninsular region which constitutes of the bustling cities, modern towns, colonial buildings, tea plantations; the other side are the widespread jungles. The only thing that unites everything is the FOOD! Attractions in Malaysia include world-famous The Petronas Towers, Kinabalu Park and Mt. Kinabalu (Borneo's highest mountain), the mighty Kaula Lampur Tower and The Batu Caves. Malaysia is also a great party destination with great nightlife options, shopping malls and casinos.

Sitting cosily in Southeast Asia, the Republic of Laos is a landlocked country with a sparse population. Known for its spectacular landscape, the country comprises of lofty mountains, lush jungles, glistening rice fields and tea leaves covering the mountain surface. The remote tribal villages, ancient Buddhist caves, rich cultural heritage, cafe culture in cosmopolitans, elegant colonial architecture and peaceful stupas adds to the charm of this land of lotus-eaters.

Brunei is a tiny country in South East Asia located on the island of Borneo. If you are looking for adventure tourism or Islamic tourism, Brunei is the perfect place. Tourists can visit the stunning mosques such as Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque and the Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, the Brunei Museum and the Palace and official residence of the Sultan of Brunei, Istana Nurul Iman. Adventure lovers should definitely check out Jerudong Amusement Park. Note that Brunei is an Islamic state so dress conservatively and observe Islamic etiquette.