While Thailand and Vietnam are incredible travel destinations, there are many lesser-explored places in Southeast Asia that offer equally exciting adventures, unique cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a guide to some alternative Southeast Asian destinations to consider for your next trip.
These destinations deliver the magic of Southeast Asia while offering something fresh and less explored.
Why Visit These Alternatives?
Unique Experiences: Escape the crowds and explore authentic cultures and lesser-known attractions.
Affordable Travel: These destinations often offer better value compared to more tourist-heavy spots.
Natural Beauty: From waterfalls to mountains and beaches, these places showcase Southeast Asia’s incredible landscapes.
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Alternatives To Travel Thailand And Vietnam
1. Luang Prabang, Laos
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Luang Prabang is a serene town that combines stunning natural beauty with rich Buddhist traditions.
What to Do:
Visit the Kuang Si Waterfalls, known for their turquoise pools.
Take part in the morning alms-giving ceremony with Buddhist monks.
Explore ancient temples like Wat Xieng Thong.
Cruise the Mekong River and visit the Pak Ou Caves, filled with thousands of Buddha statues.
What to Eat:
Laap (Larb): A traditional minced meat salad with herbs.
Khao Soi: A Laotian noodle soup (different from the Thai version).
Sticky rice served with spicy jeow (chili dip).
2. Bagan, Myanmar
Bagan is home to one of the world’s most awe-inspiring archaeological sites, with over 2,000 ancient temples scattered across its plains.
What to Do:
Watch the sunrise over the temples from a hot air balloon.
Visit iconic temples like Ananda Temple and Shwezigon Pagoda.
Explore the countryside on an e-bike or horse cart.
Visit the local markets for handicrafts and traditional lacquerware.
What to Eat:
Mohinga: A fish-based noodle soup, Myanmar’s national dish.
Tea leaf salad: A tangy and crunchy mix of fermented tea leaves and nuts.
Burmese curry served with rice and side dishes.
3. Siquijor Island, Philippines
Known for its mystical charm and unspoiled natural beauty, Siquijor is a quiet escape filled with pristine beaches and waterfalls.
What to Do:
Swim in the Cambugahay Falls and explore the Lugnason Falls.
Relax on Salagdoong Beach, famous for its turquoise waters and cliff jumping spots.
Visit local healers for traditional herbal remedies.
Explore the Enchanted Balete Tree, surrounded by fish spas.
What to Eat:
Adobo: A savory meat dish marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic.
Lechon Kawali: Crispy fried pork belly.
Fresh seafood like grilled squid and kinilaw (Filipino ceviche).
4. Kampot, Cambodia
Why Visit:
This laid-back riverside town is famous for its pepper plantations, French colonial architecture, and stunning natural surroundings.
What to Do:
Visit a pepper farm to learn about Kampot’s world-famous spice.
Take a sunset boat ride along the Kampot River.
Explore Bokor National Park with its eerie abandoned buildings and panoramic views.
Discover the salt fields and local fishing villages.
What to Eat:
Amok trey: A traditional fish curry steamed in banana leaves.
Kampot pepper crab, a local specialty.
Fresh tropical fruits like durian and mangosteen.
5. Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Why Visit:
Dubbed the “Last Paradise,” Raja Ampat is a diver’s dream with crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life.
What to Do:
Go diving or snorkeling to see manta rays, turtles, and colorful fish.
Hike to Pianemo Viewpoint for breathtaking island views.
Explore hidden lagoons and caves by kayak.
Visit local villages to learn about the culture of the Papuan people.
What to Eat:
Ikan Bakar: Grilled fish served with sambal (chili sauce).
Papeda: A sago-based porridge often eaten with fish curry.
Fresh coconuts and tropical seafood dishes.
6. Vang Vieng, Laos
Why Visit:
Once a backpacker party hub, Vang Vieng has transformed into a destination for outdoor adventures and stunning karst landscapes.
What to Do:
Go tubing or kayaking on the Nam Song River.
Explore caves like Tham Chang and Tham Phu Kham.
Take a hot air balloon ride over the limestone mountains.
Hike or bike through rice fields and villages.
What to Eat:
Fried riverweed: A crunchy snack served with a sesame dipping sauce.
Khao jee: Laotian-style baguette sandwiches.
Grilled skewers from local night markets.
7. Flores Island, Indonesia
Why Visit:
Flores is a stunning island where you can explore volcanoes, pristine beaches, and the Komodo National Park.
What to Do:
Visit the Komodo Islands to see Komodo dragons in the wild.
Snorkel at Pink Beach, one of the world’s few pink sand beaches.
Hike to Kelimutu Crater Lakes, which change color due to volcanic activity.
Relax in the natural hot springs of Bajawa.
What to Eat:
Arak: A local alcoholic drink made from palm sap.
Ikan kuah asam: A sour fish soup with tamarind and spices.
Grilled seafood and fresh tropical fruits.
8. Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
Why Visit:
The capital of Brunei offers a mix of Islamic architecture, pristine nature, and a slower pace of life.
What to Do:
Visit the opulent Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.
Explore the floating village of Kampong Ayer.
Take a river safari to see proboscis monkeys in the mangroves.
What to Eat:
Ambuyat: A starchy dish made from sago palm served with various dips.
Nasi Katok: Rice with fried chicken and spicy sambal.
Bruneian desserts like kuih cincin (fried palm sugar cookies).
9. Bohol, Philippines
Bohol offers natural wonders and unique wildlife, making it an excellent off-the-beaten-path destination.
What to Do:
See the Chocolate Hills, a geological formation of over 1,200 cone-shaped hills.
Visit the Tarsier Sanctuary to see one of the world’s smallest primates.
Go snorkeling or diving in Balicasag Island.
Take a river cruise along the Loboc River.
What to Eat:
Peanut Kisses: A local sweet made from peanuts and egg whites.
Sikwate: A traditional hot chocolate made from cacao tablets.
Grilled seafood, especially on Panglao Island.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.