Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia for First Timers

Southeast Asia is one of our favourite world regions here at Gap 360 (just don’t tell the others 🤫). We bet if you asked most backpackers where their wanderlust began, Southeast Asia is the answer they would give. 

This is the dream destination for first-timers. Exciting and exhilarating, bound to keep you on your toes with epic nights out, jaw-dropping viewpoints and unique cultural experiences. Yet with trustworthy routes, a thriving travel community and reliable tourism infrastructure, there’s no question about it – you’re in great hands.

So where do you begin? We’ve put together this guide to navigating Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations as a first timer, giving you a taste of what’s possible inside this legendary region of the world. Let’s go! ✈️

Southeast Asia: At a Glance

Best for nightlife: Thailand or Bali (Indonesia)

Best for island-hopping: Indonesia or the Philippines

Best for city vibes: Vietnam or Singapore

Best for food: Thailand, Vietnam or Malaysia

1. Thailand

Some places are so iconic that it feels as if you know them already. Thailand is the ultimate destination for backpackers, famed for its insane natural beauty, crazy beach parties and warm culture to make you feel at home (but with a tropical twist 🥥). Expectations are sky-high for Thailand. From elephant sanctuaries and jungle treks to island hopping, Thailand delivers in every way.

Where To Go in Thailand?

Bangkok 🌇

There are cities – and then there’s Bangkok. Get ready for a next-level experience inside Thailand’s electric capital, enticing you in with golden temples, rooftop views and buzzing streets. Spend your days exploring Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Then at night, get a taste of Khao San Road’s pure chaos. Easy to see why this is Asia’s most famous nightlife strip!

Koh Phi Phi 🏝️

Koh Phi Phi is like something out of a dream. Nothing will take your breath away quite like this island’s famous viewpoints. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters on a boat trip to Koh Phi Phi Lee or soak up the sunshine on powder-white beaches. When sunset falls, the island comes alive with bar crawls and fire shows.

Chiang Mai 🐘

Chiang Mai is like a fairytale (and not just because its Yi Peng Lantern Festival will remind you of Tangled 🏮). Enchanting temples and gardens backed by mountain views make it one for the books. The only reason you’ll ever want to leave is to experience all the nature right outside the city.

Planning a trip to Thailand? Check out our definitive guide to the Best Places to Visit in Thailand for First-Time Travellers, or reach out to one of our friendly travel experts, and we can do everything for you.

2. Indonesia

You cannot help but fall in love with Indonesia. This country is impossibly stunning; as the world’s biggest island nation, all your wildest adventures can become a reality here. Sunrise volcano treks, rare tropical wildlife, surfing breaks… take your pick. With over 17,000 islands to choose from, “spoiled for choice” doesn’t ever cover it.

Where To Go in Indonesia?

Bali 🏄

Bali embodies paradise. This island has you chasing ocean waves by day, then partying at the beach clubs until dawn. Have your cameras ready, because Bali is spoiled for choice with iconic viewpoints, from the Tegalalang rice terraces to Kelingking Beach, and Mount Batur at sunrise.

Can’t stop thinking about Bali? We have just the thing. Our Best Places to Visit in Bali for First Timers guidebook is your new go-to for navigating this backpacker paradise, for both independent travel and our group adventure tours.

Komodo Islands 🐲

Did you know that Indonesia has dragons? Okay, not *those* type of dragons who can breathe fire (phew 😮‍💨). Still, spotting a Komodo Dragon out in the wild is a serious pinch-me moment. Speaking of surreal, the Komodo Islands are famous for their pink beaches – no rose-tinted glasses necessary.

Sumatra 🦧

Sumatra is a dream come true for adventurous travellers. For local culture and jungle treks, nothing can beat Indonesia’s best-kept island. Catching a glimpse of orangutans swinging through the treetops is easily Sumatra’s biggest draw, plus secret paradise beaches.

3. Vietnam

Adventure calls in Vietnam, home to limestone cliffs, lush emerald valleys and winding rivers. More than a natural paradise, Vietnam is where bustling backstreets, traditional culture and sensational nightlife collide, all under a lantern-lit sky. Vietnam encompasses so many kinds of adventure, but one thing’s for sure: the memories you make stay with you long after you’ve left.

Where To Go in Vietnam?

Ha Giang Loop 🏞️

Only the most iconic road trip in all of Southeast Asia! The Ha Giang Loop takes you through the best of north Vietnam’s unspoilt landscapes in 3 or 4 days. Stop at famous viewpoints like Heaven’s Gate, climb through the mountains, and experience the country’s rich indigenous cultures at a homestay.

Hanoi 🍜

Sparks fly in Hanoi. Get lost inside the endless maze of tiny streets in the Old Quarter, with local temples and fragrant street food right around the corner. Make new memories with like-minded travellers long into the night, hopping from bar to bar inside Vietnam’s vibrant capital – plus photos at Train Street to celebrate!

Ha Long Bay 🛳️

If Ha Long Bay isn’t at the top of your Vietnam bucket list, it needs to be. Set sail on an overnight cruise along its jade waters, soaking in the endless views of islands dotted throughout the sea. From floating villages to secret caves and golden sandy stretches, Ha Long Bay is impossible to forget.

Wondering where else you should go in Vietnam? The 10 Best Places to Vietnam for First-Timers is here to help you plan out that adventure of a lifetime, plus give you an idea of all the places you can go on our group trips.

4. Cambodia

Cambodia is even dreamier than all the pictures suggest. Explore the sprawling ancient ruins of Angkor Wat: the world’s biggest religious site, famed for its lotus-shaped pagodas that bloom under a sunrise glow. Find paradise on the shores of Koh Rong and its sister island, Koh Rong Sanloem, for the softest white sand you’ve ever felt between your toes. Ready for it?

Where To Go in Cambodia?

Angkor Wat 🌄

Angkor Wat at sunrise is an unmissable moment on Southeast Asia’s backpacking trail. Get ready for one of the most jaw-dropping views of your life. Plus, you’ll have time to explore some of the temples inside the complex, including Bayon and Ta Phrom (otherwise known as the Tomb Raider temple!)

Koh Rong 🌴

Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem are Cambodia’s answer to paradise. Dip into crystal-clear waters, seasonally illuminated at night by a sapphire glow of bioluminescent plankton. Kick back under the shade of palm trees, coconut in hand. After sunset, the beachside bars await.

Phnom Penh 🏙️

Phnom Penh is an essential experience on any backpacking loop around Southeast Asia, providing insight into Cambodian culture and history. From historical sightseeing to nightlife, this capital is not one to miss.

5. Philippines

Fancy the island life? The Philippines is pure paradise, inviting you to explore bright turquoise lagoons and sandy stretches, with palm trees swaying to the ocean breeze. Go snorkelling alongside sea turtles, sail to secret islands and play a couple of rounds of beach volleyball. Pack your bags!

Where To Go in the Philippines?

El Nido ☀️

El Nido is like something straight out of a dream. Picture rugged limestone cliffs dotted along the sea, revealing hidden coves and milky white sand. After sunset, those beachside bars come alive, promising epic nights out.

Kawasan Falls 🌊

Add some adventure to your Philippines getaway by visiting Kawasan Falls. Perfect for canyoneering, enjoy the natural waterslides as you climb through the stunning scenery, swimming in “Gatorade-blue” waters.

Port Barton 🍹

For sleepy island vibes, Port Barton is an unrivalled getaway. Kick back in a hammock, listen to some live music or explore this paradise beach village from coast to coast.

6. Laos

Laos is one of Southeast Asia’s quietly celebrated destinations. From beautiful temples to tropical riverside towns, wild mountains to cascading waterfall pools in the heart of the jungle, Laos has you spoiled for choice when it comes to activities. Who knows, maybe Laos could become one of your future travel favourites…

Where To Go in Laos?

Vang Vieng 🍻

This is the go-to destination for backpacking in Laos. Fill your days with adrenaline activities and scenic hiking trails, then spend your nights enjoying bar crawls with new mates.

Kuang Si Falls 🌊

Kuang Si Falls is arguably the most iconic destination in Laos – and for good reason. Take your pictures by the famous bridge, hike in the surrounding rainforest, or take a dip in the refreshing waters.

Luang Prabang 🙏

Looking to experience the local culture of Laos? Luang Prabang invites you to slow down and soak in the peaceful city atmosphere, from the local markets to the golden temples and scenic Old Town. Don’t miss out the Buddhist tradition of Almsgiving every morning at dawn!

7. Malaysia

Malaysia is Southeast Asia’s ultimate melting pot, where cultures have collided to create a destination that feels unique. Discover stunning contrasts here, from tropical rainforests to heavenly beaches, bustling night markets and rainbow temples. It’s a kaleidoscope of adventure.

Where To Go in Malaysia?

Kuala Lumpur 🌃

If there is one destination you need to visit in Malaysia, it’s Kuala Lumpur. This futuristic capital knows how to keep travellers on their toes, from skyscrapers to street food crawls. 

Cameron Highlands 🥾

Fancy a nature escape? The Cameron Highlands is famous for its emerald tea plantations and cool, breezy temperatures. Enjoy days of hiking through mossy forest trails or kicking back to take in the views.

George Town 🍲

This is the dream destination for foodies. Whilst you’ll be amazed by the hawker stalls dotted throughout Malaysia, an essential part of the culture, George Town just has that extra edge with local specialities. You’ll be blown away by the flavours – and how budget-friendly it is!

8. Singapore

Many travellers come to Singapore on a stopover, yet if you can stay for longer, take the opportunity to explore its biggest highlights in more depth. Efficient public transport makes navigating this destination a dream, so it’s easy for you to hop between vibrant neighbourhoods and famous landmarks.

Where To Go in Singapore?

Chinatown 🏮

Get to know Singapore’s history better inside Chinatown, as you uncover the local markets and lantern-lit backstreets filled with artsy murals. The hawker food here is also pretty legendary!

Gardens by the Bay 🌟

Let’s face it: no trip to Singapore is ever really complete without checking out Singapore’s famously futuristic garden. Our top suggestion is to stay around for the light show at night, as the Supertrees come to life with dazzling colours and music.

Jewel Changi Airport 🛍️

Honestly, you could spend hours exploring this airport without ever getting bored. Aside from shopping and dining, you can climb across walking nets, get lost inside mazes and marvel at the Jewel Rain Vortex waterfall surrounded by lush indoor vegetation.

Southeast Asia Travel Tips

Check Entry Requirements

Staying updated on FCDO advice before you go travelling is essential. This includes checking the entry requirements for all the countries you plan to visit, including any additional countries where you may have a layover. Even if you are only staying at the airport, some countries will still require you to have a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA).

Pack Light

Trust us on this one! Whilst it may seem tempting to pack all your favourite clothes and items, we can guarantee that you’ll pretty much end up wearing rotations of the same thing. Southeast Asia is known for its hot and humid weather year-round, so breathable layers are key. Having a few longer pieces of clothing, or a shawl, can also be super handy for any temples or sacred sites you plan on visiting.

One of the most common questions we get asked is whether you should bring a backpack or a suitcase. For Southeast Asia, we highly recommend that you go for a backpack, as it’s more lightweight and easier for transportation.

Southeast Asia is known for its budget-friendly shopping, so if you find yourself wishing you had brought an extra swimsuit, it’s usually possible to buy what you need when you’re out there. Some items that you will want to stock up on, however, are sunscreen and mosquito repellent. 

Wondering what else you may need for your trip? What to Take Travelling is our ultimate checklist covering all the essentials, so tick off the items as you read along!

Bring a Filtered Water Bottle

Tap water is generally not safe to drink in most Southeast Asian countries. Purchasing a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter can help you to stay hydrated and safe, or opt for bottled water instead. 

Get Some Cash

Although more destinations are accepting cards these days, getting some cash before you go is always handy. Alongside the local currency, USD is also accepted by some countries.

Some countries, such as Cambodia and Laos, have closed currencies. All this means is that cash cannot be exchanged outside of the country, so you can pick some up at the airport or at an ATM. On our Southeast Asia tours, your trip leader can assist you with this.

Gap 360 Travel Hack: Register for an international debit card. This allows you to save money on exchange rate fees by storing different currencies on one card (so it’s perfect for ticking off multiple countries on a single trip!). Wise is super easy to use and can even be set up for Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Ready for Southeast Asia?

Now that you know where to go in Southeast Asia for your first time, let’s make it happen. Our friendly travel experts can help plan your perfect adventure, plus answer any more questions you may have before you go.

It’s super easy to get in touch; simply send us a message on live chat, call into our Tunbridge Wells office, or book a 1-to-1 travel advice session today. Our Contact Us page has everything you need to get started in just a few clicks.

After more inspiration? We have 200+ trips and group tours that tick iconic countries from all across the globe off your bucket list, Southeast Asia and beyond. 🗺️