The 20 Cheapest Quarantine Hotels in Cebu, Philippines
If you’re catching an international flight to Cebu, Philippines, then you’ll need to quarantine when you arrive. We check out the cheapest quarantine hotels in Cebu…
A Vegan Travel Guide to Southeast Asia
If you’re heading to Southeast Asia as a vegan, you may be a little concerned. There is no need to worry though! Southeast Asia is one of the most vegan-friendly regions in the world.
Remembering Myanmar: A Traveller’s Tale
Introduction In February 2021, a violent coup gripped the country of Myanmar, plunging the lives of its citizens into turmoil. …
What are the Best Backpacks for Travelling?
We asked 100+ of our readers to tell us which is the best backpack (brand, model & size) for travelling Southeast Asia – and here are the results! So, if you’re looking for a backpack yourself… Sit back, relax, and read some words of wisdom from fellow travellers in Southeast Asia – so that you can find the perfect backpack for you!
Top 10 Quarantine Hotels in Jakarta, Indonesia
We look at the best hotels in Jakarta (from cheapest to most expensive) to do your 8-day mandatory quarantine in Indonesia.
Top 10 Quarantine Hotels in Kuala Lumpur
We look at the best hotels in Kuala Lumpur (from cheapest to most expensive) to do your mandatory quarantine in Malaysia.
Phuket Sandbox: Everything You Need to Know
On 1st July 2021, Thailand is opening up its borders to vaccinated international travellers without the need for quarantine. They’re calling it the “Phuket Sandbox”.
Thailand Reopening “Within 120 Days”: Everything You Need to Know
Starting with Phuket on 1st July, Thailand is reopening the country in stages. In less than two weeks vaccinated travellers will be able to land on Thailand’s shores without having to quarantine. In this article, we’ll look at the Thailand reopening timeline as it stands, and what we know so far about the entry requirements for travellers.
Useful Indonesian (Bahasa) Phrases for Travellers
106 of the most helpful words and phrases in Bahasa Indonesian. These can all that can be used in daily life to make interactions easier.
24 Fun Facts About Thailand!
Thailand is home to almost 70 million people. And every year (pre-COVID), almost 40 million tourists, travellers and backpackers make …
Solo Female Travel: The 15 Best Tips You’ll Read
These tips for solo female travel will give you the confidence to jump on that plane! We’ve got together with our backpacking community to bring you the best tips from ladies around the world.
Top 10 Budget Quarantine Hotels in Manila, Philippines
“Quarantine. It’s more fun in the Philippines!” Or is it? We check out the 10 most recommended budget quarantine hotels in Manila.
Best Sleeping Bag Liners for Travellers
Sleeping bag liners are available in a range of materials and come in different shapes and styles. Whether you’re looking for an extra layer between you and that grotty hostel bed or want some extra protection, these liners have got you covered (literally!).
When is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam?
When is the best time to visit Vietnam? Luckily, there is no bad time! However, to get the most out of your trip, you’re still going to need to know about the different climate zones.
What is Being a Nomadic Family REALLY Like?
Family travel is more popular than ever and it’s no wonder why! But is it as good as everybody says? We caught up with Alyson from World Travel Family to get the lowdown on what being a part of a nomadic family is really like!
13 Unique Indonesian Animals
One of the best parts of travel is undoubtedly spotting the local wildlife. These incredible Indonesian animals are fascinating and unique. How many have you seen?
34 Amazing Places to Visit in Thailand & 6 to Avoid!
Forget all the other bullsh*t lists, if you want the honest truth about the best places to visit in Thailand and the ones to avoid, read this guide before you travel!
The Best Beers in Thailand (Changover Warning!)
If you’ve been to Thailand, you’ll know that the Thai beer market is dominated by three big names: Singha, Chang …
Surviving Southeast Asia with a Peanut Allergy
With peanuts being a common ingredient in Southeast Asian food, travelling through the region with a severe peanut allergy can be a challenge!
99 Useful Thai Phrases For Travellers
99 of the most useful Thai words and phrases that I picked up whilst living in Thailand that can be used in daily life to make interactions easier.
A Beginners Guide to Bikepacking & Cycle Touring
Whether it’s a few days cycling in Cambodia, biking the entire length of Vietnam, or spending months in the saddle …
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Floating Markets in Thailand: The Lowdown
You’ve probably heard that Thailand’s floating markets are a tourist trap… but is that true? We deep dive into the history of floating markets, discuss which ones are the most authentic and top tips for visiting!
The Best Face Masks for Flying
Face masks continue to be essential for use when traveling and flying. This is what you need to know when choosing a mask.
23 Weird Asian Foods: How Many Would You Try?
Asia is home to some of the strangest foods in the world and it’s likely you’ll end up trying some! Check out this list of the good, the bad and the downright ugly!
20 Amazing Facts About Vietnam You May Not Know
Vietnam captures the popular imagination but most of us don’t know much about the country! Check out these astounding facts about Vietnam…
The Abandoned Batman Nightclub of Pattaya, Thailand
The abandoned Batman nightclub in Pattaya is an urban explorer’s dream. This former disco is set in a multi-storey building and lies waiting to be explored…
Thai Chili: If It’s Not Spicy, It’s Not Tasty!
Thai chili is a staple of the cuisine and really packs a punch! There are as many as 79 different types of Thai pepper and all bring a different taste element to a dish.
Cendol: Southeast Asia’s Coolest Dessert
Cendol is a sweet iced dessert which you must try if you are travelling Southeast Asia. Widely available in Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, this famous dish has a long and fascinating history!
Salkan Backpacker – Backpack Review
Made by travellers for travellers, Salkan’s Backpacker could be a game changer for travellers. Find out more in this dedicated review!
Cambodian Food: 19 Delicious Dishes You Must Try!
Cambodian or Khmer cuisine might be lesser known than that of its neighbours but there are still plenty of incredible dishes to try. Which are your favourites?
Thailand Special Tourist Visa – How Do I Get Me One?
IMPORTANT UPDATE: As of 1st July 2021, Thailand is no longer processing Special Tourist Visas. International visitors to Thailand are …
Thailand Special Tourist Visa – How Do I Get Me One? Read More »
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance – Subscription Based Travel Insurance
SafetyWin Nomad Insurance works just like a subscription service (think Netflix), which you can simply pause whenever you stop travelling!
The 10 Cheapest Quarantine Hotels in Bangkok
Desperate to get your hands on the Special Tourist Visa to Thailand? Here are the 10 cheapest quarantine packages offered by hotels in Bangkok.
The Environmental Cost of Palm Oil in Indonesia
Travellers to Indonesia may not be aware what’s happening behind the scenes. The environment is being ravaged for one product; palm oil.
Osprey Farpoint Trek 75 Review – A Hybrid Bag for Travel & Hiking
The Osprey Farpoint Trek 75 claims to be a hybrid bag designed to suit hikers and city travellers alike – but does it live up to both tasks!?
Bia Hoi: The Best Backpacker Beer in the World?
Bia Hoi is a popular Vietnamese beer for locals and backpackers alike. More than just a drink, Bia Hoi junctions represent a cultural institution.
Travelling in Vietnam During COVID-19
Deciding to ride out the lockdown in Vietnam was a hard choice for these backpackers but the experiences they’ve had as a result have made it all worthwhile!
STA Travel Go Bust! Have you been affected?
The famous student travel company, STA Travel, went bust this week leaving thousands of travellers with cancelled trips and no refunds!
Climate Change and Travel – Anonymous Pilot Speaks Out
Can we justify travel in a world that’s facing a climate crisis? Does carbon offsetting actually work? Airline pilot and Extinction Rebellion climate activist speaks out!
Banh Mi: The Vietnamese Sandwich
Banh Mi is one of Vietnam’s best loved street foods. This iconic sandwich is packed with fresh ingredients and has a fascinating history.
31 Travel Books to Help You Escape From the World!
Tired of the same old books populating hostel shelves and circulating ‘best backpacker reads’ lists? Yeah, so are we! Therefore, we took a poll, asking you to tell us your favourite books to read while travelling, and you delivered! Here’s the fresh list we’ve compiled – with your generous help – that’ll easily satisfy all of your travel needs, for both now and in future.
History of Muay Thai – Thailand’s 600 Year Old Sport
Muay Thai, also known as Thai Boxing, is the national sport of Thailand. It has a long standing history, dating back centuries. Learn about where is came from and how it has evolved into the combat sport we know today.
How to Save Money to Travel the World – 10 Tips!
Travel no longer has to be crazy expensive but sadly, it still costs money. Maximise your travel savings by following these 10 actionable tips!
11 Things to do in Kuala Lumpur – The Alternative Guide
There is pretty much always something happening in KL, to suit everyones tastes. Take this short guide as an introduction to the city and its many delights, that you won’t read in any guidebook. If you’re in Kuala Lumpur for more than a couple of days and are looking for an alternative to the major attractions then be sure to check some of these out…
16 Best Travel Vloggers to Watch on YouTube
When times get tough and hopping on a plane just isn’t an option, one has to seek out alternative ways …
Stranded in a Jungle Paradise During COVID-19
Ever wondered what happened to those who were stuck abroad during the COVID-19 outbreak? This is the story about how a couple ended up in the jungle paradise of Bukit Lawang, Sumatra…
30-Day Indonesia Itinerary – The Best Route for Backpackers!
With over 17,500 islands, there’s no end to exploring the intriguing country of Indonesia! But if you’ve only got one …
30-Day Indonesia Itinerary – The Best Route for Backpackers! Read More »
Backpacking on a Shoestring: 28 Budget Travel Tips!
For many newbie backpackers, Southeast Asia is the perfect first-time destination. With beer from 25 cents, meals for a dollar and accommodation for just a few bucks, if you know what your doing you could travel for years on just a few thousand dollars! Read our tips here!
22 Asian Desserts You NEED to Try on Your Next Trip!
Are you looking for something to satsify your sweet tooth whilst travelling in Asia? Check out this list of the best desserts from all over the continent!
Responsible Travel – 15 Small Ways to Make a Big Difference
If you’re new to the world of responsible travel and worried that you may have already made a few ethical …
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8 Amazing & Endangered Animals in Thailand
Thailand is a country of diverse natural environments. Dense wet jungles, lofty mountain peaks, as well as a mix of …
Swimming with Whale Sharks in Asia – The Ethics
Swimming whale sharks can be magical, if it’s done correctly. This post will tell you where you can have the most ethical experience in Asia and which places you NEED to avoid!
Grayl Geopress Review – Clean water, no matter where you end up!
Looking for a water purifier to take on your travels? The Grayl Geopress is often ranked as one of the best! Read our full review…
8 Tips to Avoid Getting Sick When Travelling in 2021
The life of travel can be fast paced and it’s important to look after your body. Getting sick when travelling is miserable so make sure you follow these tips to avoid coming down with something nasty. A healthy backpacking trip is a happy one!
34 Best Street Foods in Asia & How to Find Them!
Asian street food equals foodie heaven! Here are a list the best dishes from across the continent, as well as advice about where to find the best eats.
10 Best Beaches in Thailand – You May Not Have Heard Of!
Search for the best beaches in Thailand and you’ll be inundated with articles aimed at folks on their two-week vacation. …
10 Best Beaches in Thailand – You May Not Have Heard Of! Read More »
7 Best Travel Yoga Mats For Your Adventures!
We compare the top travel yoga mats to find the best one to take on your adventures! Which is the the most durable, lightest, easiest to carry & cheapest?
The 20 Best Filipino Street Food & Snacks
These Filipino snacks will keep your belly from grumbling on those jeepney journeys. Most of them are delicious but there are some choices for only the bravest of travellers!
What Will Travel Look Like in a Post COVID-19 World?
This week, we’ve been looking into our crystal ball* and seeing how travel could change in a Post COVID-19 World. Will things go back to normal? And do we want them to?
22 Asian Drinks – How Many Have You Tried?
From Thailand’s notorious ‘Bucket’ to Malaysia’s beloved ‘Teh Tarik’ we pick the best beverages in Asia. Healthy and refreshing or devilishly alcoholic and mind-blowing! Here are the TOP 22 must try thirst quenchers! How many tipples have you tried?
51 Jobs for Backpackers – Ideas to Make Money Remotely
It’s the ultimate dream: bagging a travel job so you never have to go home! We’ve compiled the ultimate list of jobs you can do whilst travelling!
Teach English Online – Work From Anywhere & Earn up to $3k a month!
Looking for financial freedom without the ties of a regular job? Teaching English online could be perfect for you! We chat to online teacher Jess who tells you everything you need to know about getting started on this career path!
34 Ways to Scratch the Travel Itch – When You Can’t Travel
It’s difficult to keep your spirits up when you can’t travel or do the things you love. Don’t panic! These 33 unique ideas will scratch that travel itch!
Nomadic Matt | On Having COVID-19 & The Future Of Travel
Travel expert Nomadic Matt talks to the Southeast Asia Backpacker team about having coronavirus, the future of backpacking and his favourite places in Southeast Asia!
Tortuga Setout Divide – Backpack Review!
Are you looking for an expandable travel backpack that can be used every day? We examine the Tortuga Setout Divide piece by piece!
Start A Travel Blog In 10 Easy Steps
This easy to follow, step-by-step guide will help you to start a successful travel blog from scratch. Learn how to host your website, produce high-quality content and choose a theme. Start your travel blog today and work your way to location independence!
55 Books About Southeast Asia To Enrich Your Journey
Scratch your travel itch with some of our favourite books about Southeast Asia. No matter if you’re looking for fiction, memoirs or historical texts, we have something for you!
Borneo Itinerary – 3 Weeks Backpacking Eastern Malaysia
This Borneo itinerary has everything you need to fill a three epic weeks in eastern Malaysia. Including everything from Orangutans to turtles, prepare to be wowed by nature!
The 15 Best Travel Podcasts
Feet getting itchy? For your much-needed dose of escapism, travel podcasts hold the answer! Check out our favourites here and get downloading!
Asian Quotes to Guide Us Through Life
The vast continent of Asia gave us such wise characters as Confucius, Gandhi, the Dalai Lama and Lao Tzu… as well as religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Jainism and Taoism. No wonder there are so many wise and inspiring Asian quotations!
The Bum Gun – Beginners’ Guide to the World’s Best Butt Cleaner!
Also called the butt-blaster, butt bomber and ass hose, this hand-held bidet faithfully sits beside the toilets of Asia, freaking out westerners and causing them to stockpile tissue like the world is ending. Introducing the Bum Gun! Your new best friend.
75 Best Travel Quotes For Backpackers!
For all of you daydreaming about your next adventure, check out these travel quotes for inspiration! No matter whether you are looking for profound travel sentiments for your next Instagram caption or something good humoured to get your reminiscing about your last trip, you’re in the right place!
9 Toilet Paper Alternatives Inspired by Asia
Found yourself struggling to get clean after a number 2 in the midst of a loo roll crisis? Check out these Asian inspired toilet paper alternatives!
Mini Kettle For Travel: Making a Cuppa On the Road!
Being English, one thing that I really miss on the road is a good cup of tea! When you’re staying …
Mini Kettle For Travel: Making a Cuppa On the Road! Read More »
Travel During a Pandemic: Should I Stay or Should I Go?
When the news was announced by WHO that Coronavirus had become a global pandemic, an important question was raised: Should you travel at all right now?
Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 40 Backpacks – Why Are They So Popular?
Looking for your next backpack? Osprey’s Farpoint/Fairview 40 are often hailed as the best backpacks around – but are they really as good as everyone claims?
The Best Hostels in Bangkok, Thailand – Voted By Travellers!
Best Bangkok Hostels. Voted By Travellers! Khao San Road Hostels, Party Hostels, Hostels for Solo Travellers, Families, Couples & Hostels with Pools!
30-Day Philippines Itinerary – Explore the Best Bits!
Explore the best bits with this Philippines itinerary! Cebu, Bohol, El Nido, Coron… There is something for every kind of traveller in this 30 day itinerary!
Starling Bank Review – The Best Card for Travellers?
With mobile banking becoming ever easier and accessible, more travellers are switching to online banks. Our travel expert Tim reviews Starling bank. What does he make of it?
Workshops at Genevieve’s Fair Trade Village | Siem Reap, Cambodia
Genevieve’s Fair Trade Village (GFTV) in Siem Reap is a fair trade enterprise that sells beautiful handicrafts, created by local artisans with disabilities. Make sure you stop by if you are in the area!
Southeast Asia’s Burning Season: What You Need to Know
The “burning season” or “haze” of Southeast Asia occurs every year creating terrible air pollution and many health problems. Having experienced this time of year first-hand several times I thought I’d give you a heads up about what it’s really like!
Readers Poll: What’s the Best Daypack for Travel?
A travel daypack is your best friend, with you at all times. Our readers tell us their to recommendations for the best day packs for travelling Southeast Asia.
Girl Gone Wild – My Life in the Sumatran Jungle, Indonesia
When Welsh backpacker Ellie McManus met her Sumatran partner, Teson, she knew that wild adventures were ahead. But she didn’t realise just how wild…
The 14 Best Waterproof Backpacks
A waterproof backpack is a hugely useful item to take travelling. They protect your valuables and electronics from water damage and can be particularly useful if you are doing lots of outdoor activities during your trip! Find out if you need to invest in a waterproof backpack and discover which ones are our favourites!
Thonglor – Bangkok’s Trendiest Hood!
The Thonglor area in Bangkok is quickly becoming the city’s trendiest place to be. This swanky modern hood has everything from hipster coffee shops to speakeasy bars, you’re sure to find somewhere to while away an evening (or two)!
Ban Gioc Waterfall: Vietnam’s Secret Natural Wonder
Ban Gioc Waterfall is surely one of the best natural sights in the whole of Vietnam. However, hardly anyone actually goes there! To make sure you don’t miss out on this wondrous waterfall, plan your visit with our comprehensive guide.
Best Travel Shoes for Backpackers
Deciding which shoes to take on your trip can be overwhelming. How many pairs do you need and what type of travel shoes will suit you best? Our gear guide expert Tim comes to your rescue, armed with the recommendations of our community. Wonder no more, here is the ultimate list of the best shoes for travel!
Koh Tao Snorkeling – Exploring the Island’s Best Spots!
Snorkeling in Koh Tao is often overshadowed by more popular adventure activity, scuba diving. However, for a very backpacker friendly price, how does snorkelling compare in terms of wildlife spotting and overall enjoyability?
Trekking in Luang Namtha, Laos – Deep in the Jungle!
Writers Will and Ellie take on the Nam Oun Wilderness Trail trek in Luang Namtha, Laos with local adventure agency, The Hiker. Did they survive the 40+ degree heat and a night camping in the jungle?!
The Best Packing Cubes for Backpacking
Packing cubes are the latest ‘must-have’ accessory for travellers! We find out why everyone loves them & check out the best options for backpackers!
Canyoning in Dalat, Vietnam: One For The Adrenaline Junkies!
Canyoning in Dalat is a must-do activity for adrenaline seeking backpackers! For those of you planning to embark on your own canyoning adventure, this is what you need to know!
BEES Elephant Sanctuary: A New Kind of Elephant Tourism
Looking for a truly ethical elephant experience? Head to BEES elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai and lead by example to change the animal tourism industry in Thailand! Read about what an average day spent at BEES is like and also more about the great work they are doing to care for retired elephants.
Best Travel Laptops For Backpackers
If you are a backpacker looking for the best travel laptop, you’ll need to think about weight, size, battery life, storage capacity & COST! Deciding whether you need a laptop for your backpacking trip is a personal decision and if you conclude that you do, choosing the best travel laptop can be downright confusing! Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
The Best Apps for Backpackers
Looking for a backpacker app to make your trip easier? Our community recommended some super helpful options! Check out our list of the best backpacker apps and get downloading today!
55 Amazing Gift Ideas For Backpackers
Looking for backpacking gifts? Buy the traveller you love something they will actually value rather than just weigh them down! We delve into the best gifts for backpackers to inspire wanderlust!
10 Best Microfibre Towels for Travelling
A microfibre travel towel is an essential item to add to your packing list for Southeast Asia! We look at the benefits of this quick-dry material and the top 10 choices!
The Thakhek Loop, Laos: A Legendary Motorcycle Adventure!
Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Vientiane. There’s loads more to see in Laos than these three places! Backpacker Michael Alty describes his off the beaten track adventure on ‘the loop’ – a four day motorbike trip starting from the small village of Tha Kaek in Central Laos.
Bangkok Itinerary: How to Spend 1 to 5 Days in Thailand’s Capital
Bangkok is one of Southeast Asia’s craziest cities. With so much to do in the Thai capital and many backpackers debating how long to spend there, planning your visit can be confusing. Never fear, we are here to help you with out with our ultimate Bangkok itinerary for backpackers! Plan your trip today!
Laos Itinerary – 30 Days Backpacking the Highlights!
This 30-day backpacking itinerary for Laos covers the highlights and the hidden gems in this underrated Southeast Asian country! Can be shortened to 1, 2 or 3 weeks!
Do You Need to Take Antimalarials in Southeast Asia?
There is a lot of debate surrounding the use of antimalarials in South East Asia. They nearly all come with horrible side-effects and many travellers say that the risk of catching malaria is so low that the pills aren’t worth the effort. What is the truth though? Do you need to take anti-malaria tablets in South East Asia?