Diversity

With many sites and scenes bottled up in to a small island, a traveller could be riding the waves in the dawn and admiring the green carpeted mountains by dusk. Travel destinations in Sri Lanka provide an array of holiday experiences from beach holidays to a marathon of wildlife watching, adrenaline pumping adventure sports and pilgrimage to some of the oldest cities in the world. With so many cultures living next to each other, life in Sri Lanka offers a series of festivities throughout the year.

People

Sri Lanka is a multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multi-cultural society – a reflection of the island’s encounter with successive foreign immigrants.

The main ethnics, Sinhalese and Tamils, both originate from the Indian subcontinent. Muslims settlers reached the island from the time it became an ancient trading centre. Similarly, Malays and Chinese were attracted to the island. The Portuguese and British brought with them Kaffirs from Africa, and the Dutch an assortment of European traders, the Burghers. A fascinating mixture of cultures. And whatever their situation in society – the smiles and the hospitality of Sri Lankans are legendary and worth an experience.

Cultural Heritage

The small island is proud of eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, which can be visited within one week. These include historic Galle in the south of the Island with its famous fort from the Dutch colonial period. In the heart of Sri Lanka, right in the mountainous jungle, Kandy, the hidden kingdom and the religious capital, awaits to be discovered. The gigantic monolith Sigiriya and the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are also worth seeing – as well as the cave temple of Dambulla, the Sinharaja Forest Reserve and the Central Highlands.

Festivals

Nearly all the world’s major religious denominations are represented in Sri Lanka. Add to this a plethora of ethnicities and social groupings, and the result is a crowded festival calendar.

Numerous colorful festivals, giving new life to ancient traditions and spiritual practices of the islanders, are not to be missed. A highlight for all senses is Aluth Avurudda – the Hindu and Buddhist New Year’s festival in April. For two days life takes place on the streets – with music, fireworks and delicious food. The Vesak festival in May is the most important festival of the Buddhists, which marks the first month of the Buddhist calendar year. Roads and houses are decorated with ornate lanterns and all of Sri Lanka looks like a single sea of lights. At the Kandy Festival (July/August) vacationers can immerse themselves into the medieval past of Sri Lanka: ancient costumes, vibrant dances, music and decorated elephants unleash the beauty of the rich tradition of the island.

Spiritual Experiences

Buddhism has become extremely popular in Western countries and in Sri Lanka visitors can experience the pure teachings of Buddha, mix with the local Buddhists at places of pilgrimage and plunge into the popular belief of the Singhalese. One of the most important relics of Buddhism, a holy molar, is preserved in the temple of the Dalada Maligawa in Kandy. Visitors can join the daily poojas (praying ceremonies)and once a year a magnificent procession, is dedicated to the holy relic. Another important place of pilgrimage is Adam’s Peak, a holy mountain to Buddhists, Hindus, Christians and Muslims alike. Visitors can join the walk up to the peak to enjoy the sunset and the spiritual atmosphere.

Ayurveda

 Ayurveda & Spas

Well-being for all senses is part of Sri Lanka’s tradition: Ayurveda, the 2000 year old Indian medicine, is still very popular in Sri Lanka and visitors coming to the island for ayurvedic treatments are very often repeaters. Those who don’t have the time for a two or three weeks stay at one of the health resorts, find Ayurveda massages, meditation, yoga lessons or spas in many hotels. Sri Lanka is definitely a perfect place for relaxation.

Nature & Wildlife

Sri Lanka is a haven for nature lovers: from whale watching on the southernmost point Dondra Head to an elephant encounter in the Minneriya National Park or an expedition through the rainforest of Sinharaja – the biodiversity of the island is stunning and 13% of Sri Lanka are conserved as national parks, reserves, sanctuaries and jungle corridors.

A safari in one of the 14 national parks offers the chance to see some of Sri Lanka’s 91 mammals (16 endemic) – elephant, leopard, sloth bear, sambhur, spotted deer, hog, mouse- and barking-deer, wild boar, porcupine, ant-eater, civet cat, loris, giant squirrel, and monkeys such as the macaque, purple-faced leaf monkey and grey langur. The island is also an ornithologist’s paradise, with over 233 resident species, (33 endemic) – but migratory species stretch the number to an astounding 482. There are 171 reptiles (101 endemic including two crocodile species).

Sports & Adventure

With over 1,600 km of coast, Sri Lanka is an ideal location for wind-surfing, water-skiing, surfing, sailing, scuba-diving (including wreck-diving), snorkeling and more.Sri Lanka possesses over 100 hundred rivers, together with lagoons and ‘tanks’ (irrigation lakes), so there are plentiful opportunities for year-round kayaking and canoeing.

The Kelani Ganga near Kitulgala has fast headwaters and rapids ideal for white-water rafting. Varied landscapes, wildlife, and archaeological sites offer excellent opportunities for hiking and trekking. Nature trails include the Sinharaja rainforest, the cloud-forests of Horton Plains, the Knuckles (mountain range), and Hakgala Strict Natural Reserve.

Beaches

Brilliant white sand and palm-lined: the choice of beaches with the azure-blue Indian Ocean is inexhaustible. Whether well connected trend coasts or lonely bays – Sri Lanka bathes in diversity.

Hotels

The island is generally blessed with impressive hotels usually situated in stunning settings. The coastal areas, especially the west and south, have innumerable resort hotels. Several are designed by Geoffrey Bawa, one of the 20th-century’s foremost Asian architects. His vision encompasses a style referred to as ‘tropical modernism’ in which forms of modernism are beautifully softened and enriched by traditional influences and surrounding landscapes. There are also an increasing number of boutique hotels on the west and south coast, mainly centred at Galle. Hill country towns such as Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Bandarawela feature colonial era hotels, and for those who venture farther afield, perhaps to indulge in adventure sports, there are beautifully converted colonial homes, tea and rubber plantation buildings, jungle cabins, tree-houses and eco-lodges, but also guest houses and home-stays offering economy deals for travellers on a budget.

While it would take years to truly explore every corner of this continent, most travelers begin in Southeast Asia (like me!). Backpacking is the most popular way to travel through the countries of Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Indonesia (hello, Bali!). While these countries attract a large backpacking crowd, there are luxury gems at every corner too.

Bigger cities like Tokyo, Shanghai, and Hong Kong attract travelers from all over the world. And of course, I can’t forget THE FOOD! With so much variety in cuisine, you will have lasting memories of the food, I promise.

Central Asia: Central Asia is made up of Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan. While it’s not as popular as other destinations in the region, more and more travelers have started to explore these countries in recent years. Some of it’s most popular attractions are the gas crater known as the “Gate of Hell” and the cities of Uzbekistan’s ancient Silk Road.

East Asia: East Asia is one of the most traveled regions for international visitors. It’s made up of China, Mongolia, North Korea, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and Macau. It’s home to more than 22% of the global population as well as some of the top city break destinations in the world. It also boasts some of the region’s most impressive natural and human-made wonders like Mount Fuji, Huangshan Mountain and The Great Wall of China.

South Asia: South Asia is the most densely populated area in the world. It’s where you’ll find destinations like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal, and the Maldives. They are most well-known for impressive cultural heritage sites like the Taj Mahal and the Sigiriya Fortress.

Southeast Asia: Southeast Asia is a popular destination for budget travelers. It’s divided into 15 countries with the most popular countries for budget travelers being Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

There’s never a bad time to visit Asia. The region boasts some of the world’s best beaches, lush jungles, beautiful temples, and bustling markets. No matter what the weather is like, there’s always something to see and do!

The only thing you might want to keep in mind when planning a trip to Asia is the monsoon season. It varies from country-to-country, so it’s easy to pick a destination where the rain has yet to hit. Do some research before booking your trip!

That being said, if you’re on a budget, you’ll probably want to follow the monsoon. With most travelers preferring the dry season, you’ll have better luck finding cheap flights and hotel rooms.

1. Pack Light

Pack light, especially if you’ll be traveling around Southeast Asia and taking public transportation. There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to haul heavy luggage around.

Pack light cotton clothing as it is hot and humid in Southeast Asia. In most Southeast Asian countries, you can get your clothes washed and dried in hotels or laundries for just a couple of dollars. Also, it is easy to buy clothes at the street markets for very reasonable prices.

2. Pack Clothes for Temple Visits

If you are planning to visit temples in Southeast Asia, you need to know the dress code. The basic rule is to cover your shoulders and knees.

Therefore, make sure to pack an outfit that will cover your shoulders and knees — a scarf or shawl is very useful when you stumble across a temple that was not included in your plan.

3. Get Travel Insurance

It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance when you travel to Southeast Asia. You might have prepared well but your body may not be prepared for the Asian spices, high temperature, or way of life.

Southeast Asia trips also often include some adventurous activities, such as trekking and scuba diving, so it’s a good idea to have a policy in place.

Recommended Articles

4. Get Vaccinated

It is vital to get vaccinated against diseases and take necessary precautions for your Southeast Asia trip. Mosquito bites, upset stomachs, and malaria are common maladies affecting people residing in the tropics.

Many countries in Southeast Asia require specific vaccinations before you can enter them. Make sure to check their vaccine requirements and get the recommended vaccinations in advance.

See the detailed information about Travel Vaccines and Health Advice for Southeast Asia.

98.8% Positive Customer reviews among 10,000+

Great ExperienceWOW! I’ve traveled Asia some & I must say Sharon & Asia Highlights made this trip so much more enjoyable and easyMoreStephen Hollis, Aug 2023

Alisa has has been great to work withAlisa with Asia Highlights has has been great to work with. Very friendly and responsive.MoreAna Rausch, Aug 2023

Using Sharon right now to book our…Using Sharon right now to book our upcoming trip to Thailand. She has booked everything that we asked for. Has answered all of my inquiries, which has been many! Looking forward to having a great girls trip in ThailandMoreTracy, Aug 2023

Thailand, Singapore, BaliIn Thailand, Tanny and Nori(Suparp), were both incredible! They were both fun, funny, and full of knowledge and made sure we got the full experience. They went the extra mile and always made sure we had cold bottled water and towels to cleanse our hands. In Singapore, Nicole was an absolute gem. She was so kind and knowledgeable and guided us in the right direction to make our day as enjoyable as possible. She helped us choose a top notch local lunch and coffee spot in China Town and taught us so much about the country! In Bali, Emon was an absolute joy. He was very knowledgeable and kind and absolutely made sure we were feeling comfortable and was willing to be flexible with us. He was fun to converse with and made our time traveling between destinations so enjoyable! I cannot recommend Asia Highlights enough! Accommodations, travel arrangements and guided tours were all a breeze.MoreCassi Thunker, Jul 2023

Very supportiveVery supportive ! I have received eticket for Sky Lattern Festival very fastMoreChi?n Nguy?n Ng?c, Jul 2023

My experience in Chang Mai with Asia HighlightsI greatly enjoyed my experience with Asia Highlights for a trip I booked to Thailand.All of my interests were catered too. My guide in Chang Mai Gemma was excellent.I truly felt the soul of Thailand culture and Buddhism.MoreRichard, Jul 2023

A pleasure to plan withWell, this has been a painless and pleasurable process to find such a wonderful company. I had specific dates and places to be and Sharon worked with me diligently to refine the schedule and costs to suit my travel needs and budget. She informed me of a special tour on the dates I am to be in Thailand and I added that to my previous plans.MoreChris Williams, Jul 2023

Large multi-generational holiday in ThailandThe holiday was wonderful. Our guides, Mr Monchai (Bangkok), and Ms Tipagorn (Tippy) (Chiang Mai) were exceptional. Travelling in a large multigenerational group with many children requires patience and our guides truly understood that. Mr Monchai and Ms Tippy shared their extensive knowledge of the many wonderful places we visited, and were flexible to take us to additional places along the way based on discussions. While everyday was busy, having them greet us with patience and a smile truly made this a memorable holiday. The hotels we stayed at were equally wonderful and went above and beyond to celebrate not only my parents 50th anniversary but also celebrate 2 milestone birthdays that occurred. We will cherish this holiday for many years to come. We hope to use Asia Highlights again.MoreCL, Jul 2023

I never used a travel agent in my lifeI never used a travel agent in my life, but Sharon for Asia Highlights did a phenomenal job helping planning and coordination a family vacation. The best part of working with Sharon was that she maintained an open line of communication and provided answers to my question well within 12-24 hours. Additionally, Sharon was flexible and customized our vacation to my families needs. Overall great experience.MoreAntione Barry, Jul 2023

Great company to plan a trip to Southeast Asia!Sharon Haung has been wonderful to work with! Very patient and accommodating. Responds immediately given time change and is prepared, prompt, and professional.MoreDebi Hinerfeld, Jul 2023

We took a 15 days trip (10 days Vietnam and 5 days Thailand …It was an amazing experience the guides and drivers were there awaiting for us at each airoport for a transfer to the hotels also on time for all the tours all the guides were so lovely , very experienced and spoke very good English , one of the days on tour in Thailand I lost my phone in a temple in Bangkok mr chai went out of his way in a middle of thousands of visitors and managed to find an bring it back to me I found that amazing , also while on a trip I contacted Jason li out tour organizer few time via whatup and he replied and helped on the spot I recommend asiahilights 150% The quality of the service hotels the guides the drivers outstanding From start to finish ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT ????MoreSIMO el ghobar, Jun 2023

Wonderful Guides and ExperienceOur large group arrived in Bangkok with Tanni as our guide. She was wonderful! An absolute joy to spend time with. She is knowledgeable, kind, and extremely funny. I don’t know what we would have done without her! After Bangkok, we traveled to Chang Mai, where Indy was our tour guide. She was a delight! She is kind, knowledgeable, and so patient. Our trip to Thailand was an adventure of a lifetime and these two women helped make it memorable. I would definitely use Asia Highlights for any future travel in Asia.MoreJessica Bennett, Jun 2023

Guide – ChaiWe travelled from Vietnam to Bangkok and were blessed to have a guide named Chai. He was a superb guide and it is a pity we couldn’t bottle him and take him home. He was very knowledgeable and an absolute gentleman. He could not have done enough to facilitate us and imparted so much knowledge about the Temples, Buddism and the History of Thailand in general. Not only did he give us a great overview of the past and current ways of living in Thailand but I also feel I came away a much better person having interacting with him. I will carry many of his teachings with me for the rest of my life and know that having met him was a very special blessing in my life.MoreCustomer, Jun 2023

Our guide Tanni was kindOur guide Tanni was kind, knowledgeable, funny and beyond accommodating for our group. We felt like we’d made a friend and it enhanced our trip in the most positive way. Everything was coordinated perfectly which is not easy to do in a large traveling group. Excellent experience!MoreMarissa Manson, Jun 2023

We are only on day 5 of our 15 day trip…Our first stop so far was in Hanoi where our guide Trong was just so awesome! He shared about his culture and family life which showing us sites through a city tour. He was so funny making lots of jokes and always made sure we were having fun while learning about everything! He checked on us frequently even when we were no longer with him since we then went on a cruise in Halong Bay! Halong Bay and the cruise on Paradise Elegance went way above anything I expected. The scenery was breathtaking, the ship was so beautiful and clean with such fresh, good food! And I can’t sing enough praise for the staff who took care of us- especially Anna and Belle! They went above and beyond to make sure we enjoyed every aspect from eating meals with Anna to every other detail with Belle! I highly recommend Asian Highlights to help plan these extraordinary trips! This already has been a trip of a lifetime and we still have so much more to see all thanks to Cathy!!MoreDiane Creitz, Jun 2023

Tanni for the win!14 of my closest friends and family descended upon Bangkok ready to see the town. Asia highlights and Tanni took us on a tour that changed our lives. We experienced so much everyday. Tanni was amazing! She did all the thinking for us, so we all could just be present and enjoy the moment. I can’t recommend this company, and especially Tanni enough.MoreMegan McGlynn, Jun 2023

This isn’t my first trip with Asia…This isn’t my first trip with Asia Highlights. They are great at helping me plan, working my requests into the itinerary, and booking it all. We travel with friends and just got back from a trip to Thailand and Vietnam. Albee did a great job with all the details and we had a wonderful time. We will use them for our next adventure!MoreKatie Potesta, Jun 2023

Amazing serviceAlthough we have not been our trip yet I wanted to still write a review based on customer service and the ease of booking. Alisa has been extremely prompt and responsive with planning our trip to Thailand. She has had great recommendations and guidance to add to our custom itinerary. Highly recommend using Asia highlights! -AlexMoreAlex, May 2023

I have never hear of this company…I have never hear of this company before , and after reading all these reviews ,I decided to give it a try . The professionalism and communicative skill received by one of the agent , Sharon of Asia Highlights , convince me that She was the right travel agent for my trip in Asia . Very quickly she communicated with me and got all the detail of my desire vacation . Sharon made me a great itinerary with great experiences that I am dreaming to experience and I am looking forward to it . Thanks Sharon for been so great and crafting me a dream vacation with great suggestions.Moreorge alvarez, May 2023

Coco Yang worked tirelessly to…From the moment I landed in Bangkok, Ms Noi Ying was there to welcome me and get me settled into my hotel. We enjoyed several days together touring Bangkok and Kanchanaburi. In Chiang Mai, Mr Ekachai took my son snd I on an amazing trip to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and to visit a community Lanna home, gardens and a hands-on cooking class preparing an authentic Thai meal. Lisa arranged a last-minute speedboat tour of 5 breathtaking islands in Phuket. From start to finish, the guides exceeded my expectations!! Thank you, Asia Highlight!! Debbie WoodsMoreDebbie Woods, May 2023

5. Be Smart about Currency Exchange

It is recommended to change your money in airports or banks where you can get a decent exchange rate even though you might need to pay excessive fees. You can also use local ATMs to withdraw the local currency as they will use the banks’ exchange rates.

Be aware that many hotels offer a currency exchange service but they generally offer terrible exchange rates.

Every country in Southeast Asia has a different currency. Calculate how much local money you need so as to avoid having too much money left over that is not accepted in your next destination.

6. Take Some Cash with You

Visa and Mastercard branded credit cards, debit cards, and travel cards are widely accepted in major tourist destinations in Southeast Asia but you will still need some local money. You will need to have cash for street market vendors, taxi drivers, and smaller restaurants.

In rural areas, cards will not be accepted and ATM availability is not guaranteed so make sure you have enough cash to cover your planned expenses.

It is also necessary to carry some US dollars in cash too, as this might be required at the port of entry to pay the fee for your Visa on Arrival.

7. Don’t Be Afraid to Bargain

It is normal to bargain in Southeast Asia. It is a way to engage with the local people and try to get a fair price. You can try to bargain with local street vendors or at the markets. Just remember to barter reasonably and always with a smile on your face.

8. Don’t Drink the Tap Water

Tap water in Southeast Asia is undrinkable so you should buy bottled water, which is cheap. You can always find cold bottles of water available.

9. Expect Squat Toilets in Most Places

Squat toilets are common in Southeast Asian countries. Expect to find these toilets in most places, such as restaurants, tourist attractions, and other public places.

These toilets require a bit of getting used to but don’t worry as most hotels have normal Western-style toilets. 

10. Take Your Own Toilet Paper

Toilet paper is rarely found in public restrooms in Southeast Asia. Carry toilet paper or tissues with you wherever you go.

Recommended Itinerary

8-Day from South Vietnam to North CambodiaHo Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, and Seam Reap Tour

11. Buy a Local SIM Card

If your current cell phone carrier doesn’t offer an affordable service overseas, you can buy a local SIM card that will keep you covered. This could be very helpful for your long trip in Southeast Asia. SIM cards are cheap and the coverage is incredible, even in some remote places.

12. Respect the Local Culture

Southeast Asia is the perfect place for leisure and vacations but be aware that there is a very different culture. It is advisable to learn about the culture before you travel. Here are several common things you should know:

• Cover your arms and legs when you visit temples.
• Don’t stare at people praying.
• Avoid taking pictures of monks unless you have permission.
• Don’t touch anybody on the head. The head is considered to be sacred in some religions.
• Avoid displaying your soles and take your shoes off at temples.

13. Be Wary of Scams

Travel scams exist all over the world and Southeast Asia is no exception. Here are some common scams in Southeast Asia:

• Beggars, monks, or kids walk around and ask you for money. 
• Fares are overpriced when taking taxis or renting motorbikes. Agree on a taxi price before you get in.
• Scams occur when exchanging money with individuals on the street. Always exchange your currency in legal establishments. 
• Scams occur when you’re offered cheap and VIP bus tickets.
• You might be told that an attraction or temple is closed when it actually isn’t. Check it in person.

Recommended Itinerary

14-Day Myanmar and Thailand Essence TourMandalay – Bagan – Inle Lake – Yangon – Bangkok – Phuket

14. Try Street Food

If you want to taste authentic local food, find places where the locals eat. It is easy to find food streets and food stalls in each country in Southeast Asia.

Most of the restaurants won’t look very safe but try to choose restaurants where the local people eat — the more people at a restaurant or food stall the better.

15. Don’t Overplan

It is necessary to have a planned itinerary before your trip but an unexpected challenge is often thrown in midway through the plan, such as a flight delay, a visit to an unplanned attraction, or overstaying at a beach you have particularly enjoyed.

Be sure to leave some unscheduled time in your itinerary for downtime and also for wandering around.

16. Try Local Transportation at Least Once

Trying the local transportation is a great way to experience the local culture. Tuk tuks, motorbike taxis, or tricycles are a great way to get around. They are cheap and they always make for an adventure while traveling in Southeast Asia.

17. Watch Out on the Sidewalk

You might think of it as an adventure as you weave your way across the lanes of motorbikes in some Southeast Asian countries, such as Vietnam.

Sometimes, motorbikes drive on the sidewalks and rarely stop for traffic lights. One trick is to be careful and follow the crowds to get across the roads.

Start to Create Memories Together in This Honeymoon Trip

15-Day Myanmar, Thailand, and Bali HoneymoonCreating Memories Together in the Best Honeymoon Destinations

18. Learn Some Phrases in the Local Language

There are different languages in different Southeast Asian countries. Most locals don’t speak English.

Learning a few phrases of the local language would further enhance your experience in Southeast Asia. Learning how to say ‘hello’ and ‘thank you’ are a good start and the local people will really appreciate it. Everyone loves a foreigner who speaks the local language.

19. Don’t Worry Too Much about the Weather

The best time to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April (the dry and cool season) if you care about the weather. Even if you are traveling in the wet season, you don’t need to worry too much about the weather as the rain often only lasts for several hours in the afternoon or at night.

You can still enjoy a good time as long as you plan well and make the most of your time when it doesn’t rain.

See our detailed information about the Best Time to Visit Southeast Asia and Tips for Traveling in the Monsoon Season.

20. Check Southeast Asia’s Travel Visa Requirements

Most Southeast Asian countries allow visa-free entry or a Visa on Arrival for stays ranging from 2 weeks to 3 months for certain nationalities.

See all things about Visas for Southeast Asian Countries. 

21. Don’t Worry — Southeast Asia Is Safe

Generally speaking, Southeast Asia is a very safe place for travelers. It’s rare to get robbed or mugged.

People are nice, respectful, and friendly. In fact, it’s one of the safest regions in the world for female travelers, solo travelers, and families.

Recommended Itinerary

12-Day Laos to Vietnam TourLuang Prabang – Hanoi -Halong Bay – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta

22. Always Carry Your Passport

If anything should happen to you, it would be essential for you to have your passport, especially if you are unable to get back to your hotel. You never know what could happen and it’s always better to be prepared for anything.

23. Get Off the Beaten Path

The top cities and attractions will definitely be on your must-see list but don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path a bit and explore some alternative destinations and sites around Southeast Asia.

The famous attractions are usually crowded, especially during the peak season. Don’t be afraid to leave the usual tourist routes and try something new and different.

24. Learn about Tipping in Southeast Asia

In most Southeast Asian countries, there is no tipping culture. It is not customary to tip in most situations.

Tips are rarely expected in restaurants and bars but porters or housekeepers in hotels and tourism providers, such as tour guides, are likely to be used to receiving tips.

25. Be a Responsible Traveler

With so many tourists visiting each year, cities are getting more and more crowded but much of Southeast Asia is inherently mired in poverty. You can help the local people when you make the right choices on your trip.

Don’t give money to beggar children near tourist attractions as the money they make is often turned over to a boss or family member. If the children get money continuously, they will never be given a chance at a normal life.

It’s best to avoid orphanage tourism, hill tribe visits, or any activity that exploits children, ethnic groups, or animals. When participating in elephant tourism, make sure to carefully vet the organization and make sure they’re protecting the animals rather than harming them.

26. Book Your Flights Early

You can usually get the best deals for international flights to Southeast Asia and flights between countries in Southeast Asia by booking early. Start keeping an eye out for cheap flights as early as possible.

27. Don’t Underestimate the Jet Lag

Sleeping in a new bed is hard enough but when you add over 10 hours’ time difference once you’re in Southeast Asia, it’s all over! Leave yourself some time to rest and relax on your first or second day when you arrive in Southeast Asia.

28. Don’t Try to See It All

Traveling to Southeast Asia for the first time is very exciting and you’re going to want to see as much as you can. You need to know that Southeast Asia is a huge region filled with many bucket list destinations screaming to be visited.

Unless you’re staying in the region for a year, don’t try to see it all in one trip. See our detailed recommendations about How to spend your time in Southeast Asia: from 2 weeks to 3 months.

29. Get Used to Selfies with the Locals

In some places in Southeast Asia, the locals are not used to seeing foreigners on a daily basis. Do not be taken aback if they stare or ask to take photos with you.

Recommended Itinerary

30. Don’t Expect Anything to Be On Time

People in Southeast Asia are a lot more relaxed and don’t care about time as Westerners do.

Travel in Southeast Asia with Us

Traveling in Southeast Asia is a treat. Plan in advance and keep an open mind and heart. To make your first trip to Southeast Asia a great one, contact us. We’re here to help you tour Southeast Asia your way.