11 Safest Cities in Asia for Travellers
Planning a trip to Asia but have concerns about wellbeing and security? Worry no more! This round-up of the safest cities in Asia will help you pick your next destination!
The Slow Boat from Thailand to Laos [2023 Guide]
If you’re heading from Thailand to Laos and looking for a budget-friendly adventure, the slow boat is the way to go!
Ha Giang Loop, Vietnam: 2023 Adventure Guide for Travellers 🇻🇳🏍️
Layer upon layer of blue-green mountains reaching out as far as the eye can see; jagged black rocks jutting out of the hazy green landscape and sheer cliffs descending dramatically from the edge of narrow mountain roads — these are just some of the views you will encounter during the 320-kilometer Hà Giang motorbike loop, located in the extreme north of Vietnam.
Kellie’s Castle, Ipoh – Malaysia’s Haunted Scottish Castle
Rarely visited by foreign tourists but popular with locals, Kellies Castle offers an insight into Malaysia’s colonial past – look out for ghosts!
Cameron Highlands Hiking Guide – Malaysia
Trekking in the Cameron Highlands is a must-do activity in this part of Malaysia. With a range of trails suitable to all abilities, you’ll find a hike here!
10 Best Hikes in Southeast Asia
If you’re looking at hiking trails in Southeast Asia, you’re in the right place! With so many epic treks across the region, the hardest part is choosing which one you do first!
Mount Fansipan, Vietnam – A Guide for Travellers
Mount Fansipan, also known as the Roof of Indochina, is the tallest mountain in Vietnam. If you’re planning to visit, this article will tell you everything you need to know.
Best Beaches in Southeast Asia – For Surfing, Partying, Relaxing & More!
If you’re a beach bum or water baby looking for Southeast Asia’s best beaches, look no further! This list has something for everyone, from surfers to party animals and those looking to relax on golden sands.
Visiting Kuang Si Waterfall, Laos – Travel Guide
Kuang Si Waterfall (also called Tat Kuang Si) is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Laos. If you’re planning to visit this epic waterfall, this guide will tell you everything you need to know!
My Son Sanctuary, Vietnam – Travel Guide
My Son Sanctuary in Vietnam is a hugely important religious site. If you are planning to visit, this article will tell you everything you need to know!
Vietnam Transportation Guide – How to Get Around for Cheap!
This transportation guide to Vietnam will help you choose the best way to get around the country and save money!
Northern Thai Cuisine – Top Dishes and Where to Try Them!
Heading to Northern Thailand and want to experience the food scene? You’re in the right place! These traditional Northern Thai dishes are sure to get your tastebuds working! Which one will you try first?
The Grand Palace, Bangkok – A Complete Guide
Bangkok’s Grand Palace is a wonder to behold but can be overwhelming to navigate. We break down what you need to know to make your trip as enjoyable as possible!
A Guide to Food in Penang, Malaysia: Top Traditional Dishes!
Much like the gastronomy capital itself, the food in Penang is an exciting blend of different cultures and cuisines. With everything from Chinese inspired dishes to Indian snacks, there is something to suit every type of foodie here!
Angkor Wat, Cambodia: Temples, Tours and Tips!
Breathtaking and awe-inspiring, Angkor Wat astounds even the most unlikely of backpackers. Beer guzzlers are turned into Culture Vulture’s overnight as Chang Vests are replaced with ones that say ‘Angkor Wat is f**ing amazing!’ Hailed as one of the most magnificent examples of architecture ever created, it’s a site all travellers in Southeast Asia should see.
Snorkeling in Gili Trawangan, Indonesia: Turtles and Tips!
Snorkeling in Gili Trawangan is unique because you don’t need to jump on an expensive boat tour to reach the best spots. Discover the best areas for snorkeling in this guide!
Sumatra Itineraries – The Best 10-Day & 2-Week Backpacking Routes
Looking for a Sumatra itinerary so you don’t miss the best attractions on the island? We’ve got you covered with these 10-day and 2-week options!
12 Beautiful Beaches in Bali (+3 You Should Avoid)!
No trip to Bali is complete without a few beach days. However, not all of the beaches in Bali are of the same standard. In fact, some are pretty overrated! This article will help you weed out the good from the bad!
11 Pumping Party Hotspots in Southeast Asia
If you’re looking for the most pumping party destinations in Southeast Asia you’re in the right place! These legendary destinations draw in revellers from across the world!
21 Amazing Places to Visit in Indonesia
If you’re looking for varied and interesting places in Indonesia, then look no further! This epic compilation of destinations offers something for every kind of traveller!
7 Places in Southeast Asia Ruined by Overtourism
Parts of Southeast Asia have long been a victim of overtourism, leading many travellers to claim they have been ‘ruined’. But is this true? And how can these destinations move forward?
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…
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!
Food in Singapore: 10 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!
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!
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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…
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!
Looking for the best Indonesia Itinerary for backpackers? This epic adventure will take in Indonesia’s spectacular natural landscapes and culture!
8 Tips to Avoid Getting Sick When Travelling
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.
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!
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!
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 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.
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!
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!
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…
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)!
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?!
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.
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!
Luang Prabang Cooking Class – Learning to Cook Laos Style!
A cooking class in Luang Prabang is the perfect introduction to Laotian cusine. Make sure you go with an empty stomach, this is an experience that you will need the extra room for!
Guide to Sustainable Jungle Trekking in Bukit Lawang, Indonesia
Sumatra is Indonesia’s largest island and contains three of the country’s national parks; Gunung Leuser National Park, Kerinci Seblat National Park and …
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Singapore Food Tour: A Food Lover’s Dream with Hello Singapore
Are you a foodie looking for a new adventure in Singapore? Consider a small group tour with the Hello Singapore tour company, where you can experience the diverse cuisine under the guidance of a local!
Kuala Lumpur Food Tour! A Taste of Traditional Malaysia
On the hunt for the taste of traditional Malaysia, writers Ellie and Will join A Chef’s Tour – a foodies dream journey through the old markets of Kuala Lumpur. Find out what local delights made their mouths water and most importantly, what they thought about Durian!
Rock Climbing in Vang Vieng, Laos – A Must for Adrenaline Junkies!
Vang Vieng might be most known for its crazy parties but recent years have seen this backpacker Mecca change into an adrenaline junkies paradise! South East Asia Ambassador Will went to check out the rock climbing opportunities with Adam’s Climbing School to see what all the fuss is about.
Koh Samui Muay Thai – An Insider Look at Punch It Gym Training Camp
Interested in training Muay Thai in Koh Samui? We chat with the owner of Punch It Gym to discover everything you need to know before booking that flight!
Kayaking The 4000 Islands, Laos – Rapids, Dolphins and Waterfalls
For travellers visiting the 4000 Islands in Laos, a kayaking trip is an absolute must! Read South East Asia Ambassadors Will and Ellie’s verdict on exploring the winding waterways of the Mekong. They even spotted the rare Irrawaddy Dolphins!
Rock Climbing in Railay, Krabi – A Thailand Bucket List Adventure!
Railay is a world class destination for avid rock climbers and enthusiastic beginners. South East Asia Ambassadors Ellie and Will headed out for the day with Climbing School Real Rocks to see whether this destination is worth the hype!
Trekking Mount Rinjani, Lombok – Everything You Need to Know!
Gunung Rinjani (Mount Rinjani) is an active volcano in Indonesia located on the island of Lombok, near Bali. The volcano is popular with adventure seekers in need of a challenge after relaxing on Bali’s nearby beaches. Are YOU UP FOR the challenge?
Which is the best El Nido Island Hopping tour for you?!
El Nido Island Hooping is the ultimate activity for any backpacker bucket list. With so many tours, it can be hard to know which one to pick. A, B, C or D? We help you decide with our comprehensive guide!
Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour Vs Going It Alone
If you are considering visiting the beautiful Puerto Princesa Underground River in the Philippines and are not sure whether to go for a group tour or DIY it, read on!
The Floating Villages of Tonlé Sap Lake | Siem Reap, Cambodia
Everything you need to know when visiting Siem Reap’s floating villages. Which village is the best one to visit, how to choose an ethical tour & how to avoid travel scams!
Komodo National Park Diving, A Personal Experience
Komodo National Park offers some of the best dive sites on the planet. However, with the growth of tourism in the region, things could soon be changing…
Should you Go Backpacking at 50?
Backpacking is for anyone at any age. I seek to quash the barriers that people may have about backpacking and extol the pleasures of backpacking!
Diving in Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia
Nusa Lembongan, a small idyllic island off Bali, offers some of the world’s best diving opportunities for beginners or advanced divers. Find out the best dive spots for every level and the wildlife you’ll find there.
A Forbidden Boat Ride into North Korea from Dandong, China
A buccaneering tale of entering North Korean waters from the small town of Dandong, North Eastern China. Richard travels along the Yalu River, eventually crossing the border into the world’s most exclusive nation!
Backpacking Java, Indonesia – The Perfect One-Week Itinerary
There’s a standard backpacker route that most people follow when they explore Java. The journey starts in Yogyakarta where travellers come to see the two UNESCO World Heritage Sites Borobudur and Prambanan. Then, the trail leads east, to watch the sun rise over Bromo and Ijen volcanoes. It’s an amazing route that combines the cultural highlights of central Java with the striking beauty of the landscapes of East Java. This journey through Java takes a minimum of seven days…
Bicycle Tour Hanoi – See The City On Two Wheels
Thinking of going on a Hanoi bike tour? Scared to get involved in the traffic chaos of Vietnam’s throbbing capital? So were we! Luckily, with the right guidance, it can be surprisingly stress-free!
Singapore Itinerary – The Best of the City in 3-4 Days!
Your 4 day guide to experiencing the best views, eats, and activities in the Garden City of Southeast Asia!
Want to Quit Your Job to Travel? 10 Tips on Making The Move!
Swapping your current day to day life for travelling can seem pretty intimidating! This year, Katie Finch and her boyfriend, …
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The Ultimate Guide to Responsible Trekking in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai, Thailand is a great base for planning treks into the nearby jungle-clad mountains. Hilltribe villages, waterfalls, hot springs, tropical flora and fauna and more exciting adventures await!
Sunrise SUP Tour, Hoi An, Vietnam – Worth a 4am Wake Up?
When travelling in Vietnam you get used to stumbling in at 4.15am after overindulging on cheap local beer and the …
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Doi Inthanon National Park, Thailand – A Trek To Remember
Doi Inthanon National Park is one of the highlights of Northern Thailand. We tell you when to go, what to pack and review one of the best tours that runs…
25 Best Singapore Hostels – Budget Friendly!
Singapore is not cheap, let’s be honest! But you’ll be surprised to find that there are some great budget hostels & capsule beds – from $10 US per night!
50 Best Travel Movies – Voted By Our Readers!
Sit back, relax and work your way through the 50 best travel movies of all time! Live vicariously through each adventure & get inspiration for your next trip!
Taman Festival: An Abandoned Theme Park in Bali
Abandoned for two decades, Taman Festival is a deserted theme park that’s becoming consumed by mother nature, making it an incredible place for backpackers, photographers and urbex explorers alike. Locals say its haunted and there are rumours of a man-eating crocodile who resides inside…
The Best Phuket Hostels, Thailand – Top Picks For Every Area!
A Fabulous List of the Best Phuket Hostels in Each Area of the Island! From Party Hostels to Instagrammable Vintage Delights + Hostels with Swimming Pools!
Review: The Cheapest Halong Bay Tour For Backpackers
Halong Hideaway is the cheapest Halong Bay Tour, at almost half the price of others! As stingy backpackers, would we regret booking the cheap option? Or…
Baliem Valley, Papua – The Wild Wild West of Asia?
In 1938, an American expeditioner chanced upon Baliem Valley, home of the Dani tribes. He was shocked to see how far removed from the rest of the world they were and compared their lifestyle to what a 21st century stone age would look like…
Hanoi Street Food Tour – Eat Your Way Through Vietnam’s Capital
A Hanoi street food tour is a must-do experience in Vietnam’s crazy capital, especially if you’re only in the city for a few days! A food tour is a fantastic way to sample a variety of Vietnamese street food delights, meet new travel buddies and discover more about Vietnamese culture and traditions along the way.
Abandoned Water Park Hue, Vietnam – Crocodiles and Bribery!
Ho Thuy Tien Abandoned Waterpark, Hue, is a crumbling playground. Locals say it’s cursed. Will you bribe the Security Guard to enter the Dragon’s Lair?
Getting Tattooed in Thailand – A Backpacker Rite of Passage
Backpackers are returning home from Thailand with a new, permanent, souvenir – a tattoo! Be it a traditional Sak Yant or a personal design – it’s adinktive!
Hai Van Pass Vietnam – Motorbiking One of the World’s Best Coastal Roads
What’s the best way to do the Hai Van Pass? Motorbike or Jeep? We look at the options & tell our experience riding pillion on a Hai Van Pass Motorbike Tour!
Homestay & Trekking in Sapa – A Must Do Experience in Vietnam
Sapa, Vietnam has grown notoriously touristy. However, we discovered it’s still possible to go trekking in Sapa & barely see another foreigner!
A 30-Something’s Guide to Surviving Pai, Thailand
‘Pai, Pai, Pai, you should go to Pai.’ Pai is the much hyped corner of Northern Thailand, famed for it’s epic landscapes, fun bars and hippy lifestyle. But how does it hold up under the cynical gaze of this thirty-something…
5 Reasons to Travel Sarawak, Borneo!
Sarawak, Borneo is a place that combines wildlife, beauty and adventure! From orangutans to mouth-watering laksa, this underestimated island packs a punch.
Should You Skip Erawan Waterfall, Kanchanaburi?
If you’re currently researching a visit to Erawan National Park, nearby Kanchanaburi, then read this honest article before making your decision – you just might save yourself few dollars by doing so!
10 Reasons Why I Love The Most Hated Street In Backpacker History: Khao San Road
Khao San Road is the most slagged-off street in SE Asia! One Girl Urges you to look beyond the sleaze & hedonism at this unique slice of backpacker history!
The Best Travel Hammocks for Backpacking
One of the best parts of travelling is the sense of adventure that comes with never knowing quite what’s in …
Meditation Teacher Training: Because The World Needs It
Meditation Teacher Training is becoming more and more popular as people discover the immense benefits of meditation and want to share the magic with others. If you are interested in becoming a meditation teacher, here are some guidelines on how to choose a meditation training…
Surf Sumatra: Perfect Barrels & Bootlegged Beer in Lhoknga Beach, Aceh
Looking for an awesome surf destination in Southeast Asia? Forget Bali! In the remote village of Lhoknga, Northern Sumatra, the surf season runs from November-April with perfect, offshore, shoulder to head high barrels & only a handful of surfers.
Bed Bugs: How To Avoid An Unwelcome Encounter in Southeast Asia!
While not dangerous health-wise, bed bugs whilst backpacking can be extremely annoying! Check out our advice on how to avoid having an encounter with bed bugs while you’re travelling in Southeast Asia & what to do if you suspect you already have them!
The Hidden Trail along Angkor Thom Wall, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Did you know about the hidden 12km Trail along the Angkor Thom Wall, Siem Reap? This historical trail, that can be walked independently, will take you off the beaten track, past ancient gates and moats, far away from the tourists and street sellers.
Climbing Mount Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysian Borneo
After weeks of preparation and excitement, today is the today I will climb Mount Kinabalu! Set in the beautifully luscious Mount …
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Turtle Release: The Buddhist Practice of Building Good Karma
One traveller visits Wat Rakhang (Temple of Bells) in Bangkok and receives a cultural lesson in the Buddhist ritual of animal release. Every day hundreds of creatures; turtles, eels, snails, birds and other animals are captured in cages, purchased by locals and then released back into the wild in order to gain merit.
Readers Poll: The 50 Best Islands in Southeast Asia!
Dreaming of a beachy getaway with white sands & crystal blue seas? This is the ULTIMATE LIST of drop-dead gorgeous paradise islands in Southeast Asia!