When Will The Laos China Railway Open?
The Laos China Railway will connect Vientiane with Kunming in China. But when will it open? We dive into everything you need to know if this train journey is on your bucket list!
Vietnamese Phở: The Nation’s Best Loved Soup
Eating phở in Vietnam is a traveller rite of passage. The country’s national dish is an aromatic noodle soup with a vibrant history. Learn all about it, including where to eat it, in this complete guide.
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.
42 Amazing Gifts For Backpackers (That They’ll Actually Use!)
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!
Cool Travel Gadgets & Hard to Resist Travel Accessories For 2022
Travel gadgets aren’t strictly necessary but they can make your time on the road just a tad easier. Check out this list of the top travel accessories!
What Size Backpack Do I Need For Travel?
If you’re not a gear expert, choosing what size backpack to buy for travel can be confusing. After all, you want to fit in everything you need but don’t want to be nursing a sore back every day! Our gear expert helps you decide which size backpack suits you best.
Food in Laos: 10 Must-Try Delicious Dishes!
Even though the food from Laos is often overlooked, the country offers a unique and exciting cuisine. Don’t miss these exciting Laotian dishes…
A Guide to Cambodia’s Sihanoukville Sandbox
Cambodia has announced that it will begin to restart tourism with the launch of the Sihanoukville Sandbox. Incorporating popular destination Koh Rong and the resort of Dara Sakor in Koh Kong province too.
When Can I Travel to Bali in 2021?
After a recent surge in COVID-19 cases, Bali’s planned reopening has been pushed back again. So when can you travel to Bali? We look at everything revealed so far about the current plans to reopen Bali.
Osprey Farpoint 40 – A Review of Osprey’s Most Popular Travel Backpack
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?
Osprey Fairview 40 Review: For Globetrottin’ Gals!
The Osprey Fairview 40 is one of the most popular travel backpacks for women. But is it as good as everyone says?
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.
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.
Essential Backpacking Travel Gear — No Bull$h*t Packing List for Backpacking
Have you ever noticed how much junk is on a ‘normal’ packing list? We remedy that by diving into the backpacking essentials you need for travel!
Top 11 Quarantine Hotels in Bali, Indonesia
We look at the best hotels in Bali to do your 5-day mandatory quarantine. We compare prices, food and balcony options, giving you options all over the island!
Top 10 Quarantine Hotels in Singapore
We look at the best hotels in Singapore to complete your SHN (Stay Home Notice), also known as the two week mandatory quarantine. Pay extra for a suite to pick your quarantine hotel.
21 Spellbinding Facts About Singapore You May Not Know!
These wacky facts about Singapore will make you want to jump on a plane there right now!
Balut Eggs: Introducing The Philippines’ Strangest Snack
Balut is a fertilised duck egg regularly eaten as a snack in the Philippines and other countries across Southeast Asia. Here, we unpick the history and the cultural importance of this controversial delicacy.
Head Torches for Travel | Shedding Light on The Top 5 Options!
Rechargeable head torches for travel come in all shapes and sizes. In this article, we break down what to look for and review our five favourites!
Phuket Sandbox: Everything You Need to Know
On 1st July 2021, Thailand opened up its borders to vaccinated international travellers without the need for quarantine. They call it the “Phuket Sandbox”.
Samui Plus, Thailand: A Traveller’s Guide
Are you interested in Thailand’s Samui Plus scheme? This allows fully vaccinated, international travellers to visit the three most popular islands without needing to complete a lengthy state quarantine!
How To Choose The Perfect Face Mask For Travel
Face masks continue to be essential for use when traveling and flying. This is what you need to know when choosing a mask.
19 Pandemic Travel Essentials To Keep You Safe & Happy
Are you jumping back on a plane soon? Then you’ll need to invest in these pandemic travel essentials! With everything from transit items to ways to keep yourself occupied in quarantine, this list has got you covered!
49 Amazing Facts about Asia
The continent of Asia will blow your mind in more ways than you can ever imagine! Here are some amazing facts about Asia that you can share around the campfire on your next backpacking trip…
Top 12 Traditional Indonesian Drinks
We always talk about the food but what about the drinks in Indonesia? This sprawling country is home to some mouth-watering beverages that you’ll want to try on your next trip!
Tropicfeel Canyons – Do They Live Up to the Hype?
Tropicfeel claim to have created the ‘Ultimate Travel Shoe’. In this article we break down that claim to see if the Canyon shoes are all their cracked up to be!
Fish Amok: Cambodia’s National Dish
Fish amok is commonly said to be Cambodia’s national dish. This creamy curry dish can be made with a variety of ingredients, however, fish is the most common. Check out this post to learn more about one of Cambodia’s most popular dishes!
Phu Quoc Island Opening – Vietnam’s Plan to Restart Tourism
The Phu Quoc Sandbox is a new scheme that aims to attract fully vaccinated international tourists to the resort island in the south of Vietnam. If successful, it will kickstart a much-needed revival of tourism in the country.
The Cheapest Quarantine Hotels in Hong Kong
We look at the 15 cheapest quarantine hotels in Hong Kong for travellers returning to the country on a budget.
Food in Singapore: Must-Try Dishes and Cheap Eats!
Singaporean food might not be Asia’s most well known cuisine but it is some of the best! A melting pot of cultures contributes to an exciting cuisine, making Singapore a destination that foodies will love. Here are some of the best dishes for those on a budget!
All 12 Samui Extra Plus Hotels: Thailand Sandbox
Are you heading to Thailand on the Samui Plus Scheme? If so, you’ll be required to stay in a Samui Extra Plus hotel for the first week. In this article we delve into the 12 designated hotels to help you choose!
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!
Indonesian Food: 18 Must-Try Dishes!
Indonesian food may not be the most famous of all Southeast Asia’s cuisines but it is surely one of the best. Add these must-try dishes to your list!
Universal Travel Adaptor: A Backpacking Necessity
Save yourself hours of research and check out our top picks for the best universal travel adaptors!
Coffee in Vietnam: Drink Like a Local!
As the world’s second-largest coffee producer, Vietnam is a country that knows a bit about coffee. The drip coffee method has become famous world over and is directly responsible for some of Asia’s best caffeinated drinks, including egg coffee! This article covers everything you need to know about the history of coffee culture in Vietnam.
Asia Travel News | Where to Get Up to Date Info
We share our best resources for keeping bang up to date with the latest Travel News from Asia! Newspapers, blogs, newsletters, podcasts and more…
Backpacks with Wheels: Pros & Cons + The 7 Best Rolling Backpacks
These days, no longer do you have to decide between having a backpack or taking a wheelie suitcase. You can have everything in one! In our recent Readers Poll about the best luggage to take to Southeast Asia, we were given some excellent recommendations for the best roller backpacks out there. Here are your top recommendations!
Harem Pants AKA Elephant Pants – Every Traveller’s Favourite Pants!
Every traveller agrees that harem pants (AKA elephant pants or hippie pants) are legs-down THE comfiest trews on the planet! Perfect for travel, yoga and lazy days…
The Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel
A filtered water bottle is an essential item for the responsible traveller in Southeast Asia. Not only will it ensure that you can drink purified water from any water source, but it also means that you will be protecting the environment from unnecessary plastic waste. Read our pick of the best options for filtered travel bottles for your journey!
Top 10 Digital Nomad Hotspots in Southeast Asia
With its cheap lifestyle, varied landscape and fantastic accommodation options, Southeast Asia is one of the major global magnets for digital nomads! We take a look at some of the most popular places to be a digital nomad in the region…
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
For the traveller, Myanmar may as well be on the moon at this point. The dream of exploring this historical, rich and beautiful place has quickly faded as the country has been plunged into death, violence and instability. Myanmar is facing an uncertain future, to say the least.
The Best Travel Backpacks
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!
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.
The Best 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 …
A Beginners Guide to Bikepacking & Cycle Touring Read More »
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!
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 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 …
Responsible Travel – 15 Small Ways to Make a Big Difference Read More »
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!