Best Things to Do in Thailand

Best Things to Do in Thailand

Thailand is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations. If you ever get the opportunity to visit Thailand, a beautiful tropical paradise, you will understand why Thailand is a great place to travel. There are many memorable things to do in Thailand. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), over 7 million people have visited the country through October 2022, an amazing accomplishment considering the huge impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism worldwide.

According to TAT, as of October 2022, Thailand is now fully re-open to international tourism with no requirements to show proof of vaccination.

I remember arriving in Bangkok for my first visit there in 2006. I was immediately taken in by the friendliness of the people, the excitement in the air, and the multitude of sights, sounds, and smells that filled the air. I have been back to visit Thailand numerous times, sometimes for business, sometimes for traveling, and I always enjoy my time there.

What Are the Best Things to do in Thailand?

But what are the best things to do in Thailand? The answers are many and are different for different people. However, let’s take a look at some of the more common ones for first-time visitors to the “land of smiles.”

Enjoy Delicious Thai Food

Bangkok Street Food

Serving up some great Thai street food in Bangkok

There is something magical about Thai food. It’s another reason why Thailand is a great place to travel!

It’s hard to explain until you have had the luxury of enjoying the delicious tastes that characterize this exquisite cuisine.

From simple favorites such as Pad Thai (noodles stir-fried in a special sauce with shrimp, pork, or chicken) to the multitude of curry dishes and fresh seafood, there is little in life that is more enjoyable that enjoying a freshly cooked Thai meal.

Thai food often has the reputation of being extremely spicy. This is a false impression. Yes, it’s true that it CAN be spicy, but it doesn’t have to be. You can order it to suit your taste and it can even not be spicy at all. I know some Thai people who don’t even like spicy food.

Whatever you do, don’t miss sampling Thai street food. You can find it everywhere and know you are in an area that sells it by the unmistakable food carts or stalls with the food for sale visible through the cart’s glass windows.

You can ask your server to spice your food as you like, or you can ask for it to be served mild and simply add the amount of chili pepper to suit your spicy level.

Whatever you do, don’t miss sampling Thai street food. You can find it everywhere and know you are in an area that sells it by the unmistakable food carts or stalls with the food for sale visible through the cart’s glass windows. There are also certain parts of town that are known as “street food centers.” It’s worth getting to know where those are when visiting different cities in Thailand.

For example, in Bangkok, there are a lot of good choices along Silom Road and Surawong Road (the street that parallels Silom Road near the Sala Daeng Skytrain station) and a very well known one on Sukhumvit Soi 38, near the Ton Lo Skytrain station.

There is such a wide variety and you can just stroll along the rows of vendors and pick out what looks good.

If you are new to Thai cuisine, please see my post on Thai street food here.

Explore the Impressive Shopping Malls

Things to do in Bangkok

Bangkok’s Terminal 21 shopping center with a replica of the Golden Gate Bridge

If you like shopping, you just cannot beat the venues Bangkok has to offer. Shopping is truly one of the most popular things to do in Bangkok. There is something for everyone, no matter your interest.

You could literally spend days in the gigantic shopping malls in the Siam area of the city. You can easily get to this area by taking either the Sukhumvit or the Silom Skytrain (BTS) lines to Siam, also known as “Central.” You can exit the station and enter directly into Siam Paragon, for example. This mall is gigantic and you could spend hours in this one alone. There is every kind of shop you could imagine, including one of the best bookstores I have in for years. It’s called Kinokuniya Bookstore and it is the largest bookstore in Thailand.

But Siam Paragon is only one of several large malls in the Siam (Central) area. There is also CentralWorld and Siam Discovery, all within walking distance of the BTS station.

These malls tend to be on the higher end of the price range, but you can certainly find some great bargains without too much effort. And even the regular price is much cheaper than what you could find in large cities back home.

If you are truly looking for bargains, Bangkok has some great places you should check out. Mahboonkrong, more commonly known as MBK, is a huge 8-story center full of everything you could imagine. There is every type of clothing, including a great collection of shoe shops, fashion accessories, and jewelry. You will find all kinds of Thai souvenirs and collectible items for sale here as well. There are also many food courts for you to eat or to have a refreshing drink.

If you are truly looking for bargains, Bangkok has some great places you should check out.

This mall draws a more international crowd and you will see merchants from other countries here to purchase wholesale for selling in their own shops. You could spend an entire day in MBK alone. It’s only one more Skytrain stop from Siam (Central), called National Stadium. From the station exit, it’s only about a two-minute walk to entrance of MBK.

For a more local flavor, venture out to Platinum Fashion Mall (Thais pronounce it “pratunam”), where you will see how Thais really shop. It’s mostly clothing and accessories. This one is a bit more of a walk, as it’s not really close to a Skytrain stop. But if you’re ok with walking about 20 minutes, it’s worth checking out. Take either the Sukhumvit or Silom Skytrain to Siam (Central) but don’t exit the station. Just ask one of the friendly and helpful clerks in the ticket booth how to get to the Platinum Fashion Mall and they will happily assist you.

Along the way to Platinum Fashion Mall, you can also check out CentralWorld, another great mall in Bangkok. You can walk a good part of the way to Platinum through CentralWorld to avoid some of the heat.

For an authentic Thai experience, don’t miss the famous Jatujak (also spelled “Chatuchak”) weekend market. It’s HUGE and you can find just about anything you can imagine there.

It’s easy to get to. You can take the BTS Sukhumvit line to the Mo Chit station or the MRT (underground) to the Jatuchak station and you will be right at it. Some sections of the market are open all week long, but the best time to visit is on Saturdays or Sundays, when the entire market is open.

If you find yourself in Chiang Mai, likewise, don’t miss the Night Bazaar, open from about the time it gets dark until midnight. This is considered one of Chiang Mai’s most popular attractions.

Have Fun in the Sun at Thailand’s Awesome Beaches

Thailand has some of the world’s most beautiful and famous beaches and spending time at them may be one of the best things to do in Thailand. If you like the beach, you won’t want to miss the many opportunities you can have to lie on the soft white sand of a Thai beach and chill out with a book, or take a refreshing dip in the clear blue waters.

There are many options for stellar beaches on the Thai islands. From Phuket to Koh Samui, there is something that will suit your needs. My favorite island in Thailand would have to be Koh Phi Phi. It has no airport, so the only way to get there is by boat. The trip was over two hours long but spending time on this small island was one of my more memorable adventures in Thailand.

Many travelers consider Koh Phi Phi to be the most beautiful set of islands in the world and would rank it as one of the best islands in Thailand. The movie, The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, was filmed at Maya Bay.

It’s 31 miles (50 km) from Phuket and many travelers consider it to be the most beautiful set of islands in the world and would rank it as one of the best islands in Thailand. The movie, The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, was filmed at Maya Bay, on the coast of one of the other islands near the main island of Koh Phi Phi Don. Don is the only Phi Phi island that is currently inhabited.

I would recommend highly that you research locations when choosing where to stay on the island. The areas near Ton Sai Village and Loh Dalum are where most of the nightlife takes place, and where all the noise is.

If you’re needing a quick and easy getaway, a good option would be Koh Samet. It’s moderately easy to get to. You can take a clean and efficient bus from Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal, located just outside the Ekkamai Skytrain Station on the Sukhumvit Line to Sri Ban Phe Pier in Rayong, a coastal city. The trip takes about three hours. This bus will drop you off directly at the ferry depot.

Be sure to take the bus to the Sri Ban Phe Pier, not to the Central Station.

From the pier, it’s just either a 20-minute speed boat ride or a 45-minute ferry ride to the island. Prices will be clearly indicated on a sign at the ticket counter. The high-speed option is more expensive.

Koh Samet is a great place to get a great foot massage right on the beach while enjoying your favorite drink. If you’re the adventurous type, you can hire a guide to take you out on a boat for snorkeling or diving.

The sea life in Thailand is unbelievably beautiful!

When returning from Koh Samet, just take the next ferry from the Ko Samet pier to either the Nuan Thip or Sri Ban Phe piers. They are only a short walk away from each other, so it doesn’t matter which one you take.

Soak Up the Tropical Weather

Yes, this is one of the easiest things to do in Thailand! Thailand can be somewhat on the warm side for those unaccustomed to tropical weather. But it’s so nice to be in a place that rarely gets cold!

And it’s amazing not only how quickly you will get used to the higher temps, but come to appreciate them. The warm Thailand weather makes for a great excuse to go to the beach, spend the afternoon under a shady tree in a park, and just getting outdoors and enjoying a balmy evening.

The warm weather makes Thailand an “outdoor culture,” which makes it more fun, friendly, and enjoyable.

If you tend to be cold-natured (as I am) be aware that if you are visiting the northern part of the country, around Chiang Mai, for example, it can get a little cool (50°F, 10°C) in the morning.

Also, it’s always a good idea to take a light jacket or sweater with you when you travel, as you never know what either the weather or the interiors of buildings will be like. I was once in a nice hotel in Bangkok for a professional conference and I thought I was going to be frozen to my seat it was so cold in there.

Get to Know the Friendly Thai People

Thailand didn’t earn it’s nickname for no reason. It’s amazing how freely people will smile, say hello, and even walk up and start talking to expat travelers whom they have never even met. I have always been treated like a welcome visitor when I’ve asked locals for directions or how to find a particular place.

When entering a shop, restaurant, department store, pub, or tourist attraction, you will almost always be greeted with a very sincere “sawatdee” (“hello” in Thai) and a genuine smile by someone, or maybe even several people.

Even walking down the sidewalk, you will receive smiles from total strangers. This is perfectly normal in Thailand and you should always smile and nod as a greeting back.

I always feel very welcome when I am in Thailand and am totally at ease being places, even crowded ones, where I am the only farang (the Thai word for expat) in the entire area. I never feel that the people are wondering why I am there, what I am doing, etc. Thailand is an easy place to be, primarily because of the warmth of the people.

Party, Eat, and Shop Day and Night

Pagodas to visit in Thailand

Thailand has many beautiful pagodas to visit.

There is always something fun to do in Thailand. You never have to look far to find excitement.

In the larger cities, at any time of day, you can always entertain yourself simply by walking down the thumping streets and take in the local scene.

You are never too far from a place a sit down and have a great meal or to enjoy a relaxing drink.

By night, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the islands become a whirl of activity that you can take part in, or not, depending on your mood. Restaurants are abuzz serving up the delicious Thai food on offer there.

There are numerous world-class clubs and pubs in Bangkok. The city has much to offer, and is one of the best places to visit in Thailand. It has everything you could possibly want, helping make Thailand the wonderful place to visit that it is.

Best Time to Visit Thailand

You may ask, “When is the best time to visit Thailand?” Well, Thailand is always warm, so there is no concern there. Thailand is in the tropical climate zone. In fact, during the months of April and May, it is quite hot and muggy. Temperatures hit highs over 105°F (40°C). I would recommend avoiding those two months, if possible.

From June through November, most of Thailand receives quite a bit of precipitation. Almost daily rains cool the temperature down a bit. Sometimes rains are strong and come and go quickly. Others are light but may last most of the day. If you travel to Thailand during these months, be sure to bring light wet-weather gear and always have a plastic bag to put your mobile phones, cameras, and wallets in so they don’t get water damaged.

From November through March, the temperatures are very pleasant throughout most of Thailand, and rainfall is very rare. These months are the best time to visit Thailand.

From November through March, the temperatures are very pleasant throughout most of Thailand, and rainfall is very rare. These months are the best time to visit Thailand. In addition, hotel rates tend to be cheaper during these months. I would recommend that you book your accommodations well in advance of your arrival date, using a booking service such as Agoda, where you can often find the lowest prices for hotels.

If you found this post on the best things to do in Thailand helpful, and would like to learn more about the wonders of travel to Thailand and other places in Southeast Asia, please take a look at my book, Southeast Asia: Travel with Confidence to Lands of New Adventure, available through Amazon.

What Are the Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia?

What Are the Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia?

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Southeast Asia?

One of my favorite places to travel is Southeast Asia. Two things I love to do when traveling is photography and eating! So, Southeast Asia is a great destination for enjoying delicious food and learning about fascinating new cultures.

Many people planning their first trip ask which are the best places to visit in Southeast Asia, how they should get there, and how they should book their trip.

There are a variety of options. Due to the distance from both North America, Europe, and Australia, one thing for sure is that you will want to visit more than just one or two countries.

Southeast Asian nations are not very large, so getting from one to the next is often only a one-hour flight or a seven-hour bus ride.

Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

You will see a lot of lion dances during the Tet season in Vietnam.

If this is your first time traveling this far from home, I recommend keeping it to the most well traveled and known destinations. A good, well rounded first visit to the region could include, for example, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, and Singapore.

I recommend these destinations for the following reasons:

  1. They are centrally located in Southeast Asia
  2. They are fascinating and exciting places to visit
  3. They are excellent places to take photographs
  4. It is pretty easy and inexpensive to travel in these countries
  5. Border crossings are not too complicated

All of these countries are used to tourists and their tourism industries are pretty well established. Violent crimes against tourists is very low and these are very safe places to visit. Stay on the beaten paths in Cambodia, as land mines are still active in highly forested areas and around temple ruins.

Do be cautious against handbag, wallet, and electronics snatching, as it is common, except in Singapore. Keep all valuables well protected at all times.

These countries really are great start to your travels in Southeast Asia.

Vietnam Travel

Vietnam travel

A beach bar on the charming island of Phu Quoc in Vietnam

Vietnam is a country with a rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. As you plan your next Southeast Asian adventure, Vietnam should be at the top of your list. Here are just a few reasons why.

First, the country’s cities are a traveler’s dream. The hustle and bustle of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with its narrow streets and chaotic traffic, will transport you to another world. Meanwhile, Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is a modern metropolis that seamlessly blends the past with the present.

One of the most breathtaking sights is the sand dunes of Mui Ne, where the wind has sculpted the sand into towering peaks and valleys.

Both cities offer unique experiences, from sampling street food to visiting historical sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum or the War Remnants Museum.

Vietnam’s natural beauty is another reason to visit. From the towering limestone cliffs of Halong Bay to the serene rice paddies of Sapa, the country has no shortage of awe-inspiring landscapes.

One of the most breathtaking sights is the sand dunes of Mui Ne, where the wind has sculpted the sand into towering peaks and valleys.

Places to visit in Vietnam

Boys selling peanuts on a bridge in Hue, Vietnam

Of course, no trip to Vietnam would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls are just a few of the dishes you must try. But there’s so much more to Vietnamese food than these popular dishes.

Each region has its own specialties, from the spicy Hue-style noodles to the seafood of the Mekong Delta. And don’t forget to wash it all down with a cup of strong, sweet Vietnamese coffee.

Vietnam’s history is both fascinating and tragic, and there are many historical sites that offer a glimpse into the past. The ancient city of Hue was once the capital of Vietnam and is home to the Imperial City, a complex of palaces and temples that date back to the Nguyen Dynasty.

Vietnam is a great place to meet locals and learn about the country’s culture. Whether you’re chatting with a street vendor, taking a cooking class, or exploring a village, you’ll find that Vietnamese people are friendly, hospitable, and proud of their heritage.

The Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, and a visit there is a sobering reminder of the country’s past.

Finally, Vietnam is a great place to meet locals and learn about the country’s culture. Whether you’re chatting with a street vendor, taking a cooking class, or exploring a village, you’ll find that Vietnamese people are friendly, hospitable, and proud of their heritage.

In summary, Vietnam is a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia. With its cities, natural beauty, cuisine, history, and culture, there’s something for every traveler. So what are you waiting for? Book your ticket and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.

Travel to Thailand

Travel to Bangkok

Traditional Thai dancers performing in Bangkok

Thailand is a gem of a country and a land of glittering temples, tropical beaches, bustling cities, and delicious food. As you plan your next Southeast Asian adventure, Thailand should definitely not be missed. Here are just a few reasons why.

Thailand is very much a traveler’s paradise. Bangkok, the capital, is a vibrant metropolis that never sleeps. The city truly mixes old and new like no other, with ancient temples and modern skyscrapers standing side by side.

You can explore the Grand Palace, home to the Emerald Buddha, or wander through the lively street markets. And if you’re a foodie, Bangkok is a culinary mecca with endless street food options.

Thailand is also famous for its temples, and for good reason. The country is home to some of the most magnificent Buddhist temples in the world.

But Thailand isn’t just about cities. The country boasts some of the world’s most stunning beaches and islands. From the crystal-clear waters of Phuket to the secluded beaches of Krabi, there’s something for everyone. You can swim, snorkel, or scuba dive in the warm waters or simply relax on the sand and soak up the sun.

Thailand is also famous for its temples, and for good reason. The country is home to some of the most magnificent Buddhist temples in the world. One of the most impressive is Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok, which houses the revered Emerald Buddha.

Another must-see is Wat Arun, also in Bangkok, with its stunning spires that light up at night.

Things to do in Bangkok

A building in the Royal Palace Complex in Bangkok

But perhaps one of the best reasons to visit Thailand is the food. Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors, fragrant spices, and fresh ingredients. From the spicy tom yum soup to the tangy som tam salad, every dish is a taste explosion.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, try some of the more exotic dishes like fried insects or durian, the infamous fruit with a strong odor.

In addition, Thailand’s people are warm, friendly, and welcoming. Whether you’re in the city or on the beach, you’ll find that Thai people are always happy to chat and share their culture with visitors.

Perhaps one of the best reasons to visit Thailand is the food. Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors, fragrant spices, and fresh ingredients.

Thailand is a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia. With its cities, beaches, temples, cuisine, and people, there’s something for every traveler.

Cambodia Travel

Places to visit in Cambodia

A monk walks peacefully through temple ruins near Angkor Wat.

Cambodia is a land of enchanting temples, exotic wildlife, and a rich cultural heritage that draws travelers from all over the world. From the bustling cities to the serene countryside, Cambodia is a place that never fails to captivate its visitors. Here are just a few reasons why Cambodia should be at the top of your Southeast Asia travel list.

First and foremost, Cambodia is home to the incredible Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most breathtaking ancient temples in the world. This 12th-century temple complex is the largest religious monument in the world and a true wonder of human achievement.

The intricate carvings, stunning architecture, and awe-inspiring scale of Angkor Wat make it an absolute must-see for anyone traveling to Cambodia.

First and foremost, Cambodia is home to the incredible Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most breathtaking ancient temples in the world.

In addition to Angkor Wat, Cambodia is also home to a number of other impressive temples, such as Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei. These temples offer a glimpse into Cambodia’s rich cultural and religious history and are sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler.

Beyond the temples, Cambodia also offers a wealth of natural beauty and wildlife. From the lush green rice paddies to the stunning beaches, Cambodia is a country of stunning natural landscapes.

And for those interested in wildlife, Cambodia is home to a number of rare and endangered species, such as the Indochinese tiger, the Asian elephant, and the Irrawaddy dolphin.

Cambodian food

Spicy pork and noodle dish in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Of course, no trip to Cambodia would be complete without trying the local cuisine. Cambodian food is a fusion of flavors from its neighboring countries, with influences from Thailand, Vietnam, and China.

From the spicy and sour flavors of fish amok to the sweet and savory taste of beef lok lak, Cambodian food is sure to delight any foodie.

Additionally, Cambodia is a country that is incredibly welcoming to visitors. The locals are friendly, hospitable, and eager to share their culture with travelers. Whether you’re exploring the temples, lounging on the beach, or trying the local cuisine, you’ll find that Cambodians are eager to help you make the most of your trip.

All in all, Cambodia is a country that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, you’re sure to find something to love in this enchanting Southeast Asian country.

Include a Trip to Singapore

Travel to Singapore

The lovely Singapore skyline by night

If you’re looking for a unique and exciting destination in Southeast Asia, look no further than Singapore. This small island city-state may be small in size, but it’s big on attractions, experiences, and culture.

One of the first things you’ll notice about Singapore is its stunning skyline. From the Marina Bay Sands hotel to the iconic Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay, there’s no shortage of impressive architecture and design to admire. You can even take a trip to the top of the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark for panoramic views of the city.

If you’re interested in culture and history, Singapore has plenty to offer as well. The city-state is a melting pot of different ethnicities and cultures.

But Singapore is more than just pretty buildings. It’s a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of cuisines and dishes to sample. From hawker centers to Michelin-starred restaurants, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to try some of the local specialties, such as chili crab, laksa, and chicken rice.

If you’re interested in culture and history, Singapore has plenty to offer as well. The city-state is a melting pot of different ethnicities and cultures, and this is reflected in its museums, temples, and neighborhoods.

You can visit the colorful streets of Chinatown, explore the historic district of Kampong Glam, or learn about the city-state’s past at the National Museum of Singapore.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

The serene and scenic Singapore Botanic Gardens

For nature lovers, there’s also plenty to see and do in Singapore. The city-state may be urban, but it’s also home to a number of beautiful parks and nature reserves.

You can visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the only tropical garden to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or go on a hike through the lush greenery of the MacRitchie Reservoir Park.

Finally, Singapore is also a shopper’s paradise. From luxury brands to local designers, you’ll find everything you could want in the city’s malls and boutiques. Don’t miss out on the vibrant street markets either, where you can pick up souvenirs and snacks to take home.

Overall, Singapore is a great place to visit in Southeast Asia. With its mix of modernity and tradition, food and culture, and urban and natural landscapes, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic city-state.

For How Long Should You Visit Southeast Asia?

If possible, again due to the distance from your home, I would recommend at least four weeks, about a month, to see enough of Southeast Asia without feeling rushed. You can certainly book two-week tours, but I have traveled a few times where the number of places we went to was too many for the time available to enjoy everything.

It seemed there was not enough time to do everything we wanted to do.

It’s best to see fewer places but see them better, in more detail, enjoying the culture, than it is to rush through seeing more places. Start out with no more than four countries on your first trip. You’ll be happy you did.

Should You Take a Tour or Go on Your Own?

This is a good question. Generally, prefer the freedom to go where, when, and for how long I want to do so. I have taken some good tours that were informative and convenient. So, if it’s the first time you have visited Southeast Asia, it may be advisable to go with a tour.

This will give you the peace of mind to do what you came to do…enjoy your holiday!

You can always come back and explore on your own once you get to know a few countries.

Taking a Tour to Southeast Asia

Best places to travel in Southeast Asia

Lion dance being performed during Tet celebrations in Saigon

Tours make traveling convenient and will help you get acquainted with the countries you want to visit.

Not all tours are the same. I have visited some places where the agents and guides plan EVERYTHING for you, from accommodations, to meals, to entertainment. These tended to be places that would have been challenging to go on my own the first time (China and Laos, for example.)

The advantage of this type of tour is that the guides will take care of all of your paperwork for visas, handle all transportation needs (buses, boats, flights, etc.), and know which hotels are in the best areas for travelers as well as which attractions are popular and which to avoid.

They really know the best places to visit in Southeast Asia.

However, you are at the mercy of the guides, are on a very tight schedule, and there is little you can do if you want to spend more time at a particular attraction or don’t want to have lunch at that particular time.

The advantage of this type of tour is that the guides will take care of all of your paperwork for visas, handle all transportation needs (buses, boats, flights, etc.), and know which hotels are in the best areas for travelers.

The good news is there are flexible tours that will let you pick and choose what you want from them. This allows you more of an option for you to decide what to do and when. They will handle say the flights, accommodations and visits to a few places of interest.

They will make recommendations and address any questions or concerns that you may have. However, you can choose whether to take part in a particular activity, meal, attraction visit, or entertainment.

The best part about using a tour service the first time you visit a new country is that if you go back for a second visit, you will find it much easier to travel there, as you will already know the place from your previous tour.

Planning Your Own Trip to Southeast Asia

Travel to Southeast Asia

A monk walks peacefully down a road in Chiang Mai, Thailand

If you do decide to plan your own trip to Southeast Asia, consider flying into Bangkok, as it is THE major air hub in the region. Also, Thailand would be a great place to start and to get used to the area. Thailand is very much set up for tourism.

But also look at flights into Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), as they are often cheaper than ones into Bangkok by a significant margin. It will depend on the time of year, days of the week you plan to fly, etc. Vietnam is also a great place to visit.

Accommodations are abundant in the large cities, so there is not really to need to book hotels too far in advance.

Accommodations are abundant in the large cities, so there is not really to need to book hotels too far in advance. For booking hotels, I always use Agoda to get the best prices and availability. I have been very happy with their service over the past years.

You can find some incredible deals on rooms, saving you a lot of money on accommodations throughout the best places to visit in Southeast Asia.