Exploring the 11 Countries of Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia is an incredible cultural region that promises adventure. From powdery white sand beaches, ancient temples that hold the secrets of forgotten empires, or bustling metropolitan cities, it’s a place where diverse cultures intertwine, creating a symphony of experiences as rich and colorful as the sunsets over the turquoise waters.
Here are the 11 Southeast Asia countries in alphabetical order:
Brunei Darussalam
Known for its oil industry, Brunei is one of the wealthiest countries in Southeast Asia and one of the most expensive. Brunei is a tiny country on the island of Borneo which it shares with Malaysia and Indonesia. As far as tourism, there’s a couple of incredible things to do in the country before exploring the rest of the island of Borneo.
Cambodia
The awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most visited archeological sites in the world. This country has so much rich history weaving together beauty and tragedy. The welcoming people make this country an essential stop.
Indonesia
Island hop your way through paradise! From the lush rainforests of Sumatra to the vibrant coral reefs of Papua, Indonesia stretches across the width of Southeast Asia. The islands boast rich biodiversity and it’s a hot spot for orangutans, Komodo dragons, and whale sharks.
Laos
Laos is a landlocked nation known for its laid-back charm and breathtaking landscapes. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang creates a perfect scene with saffron-robed monks and colonial architecture. The rivers, waterfalls, and jungles are going to add unforgettable elements of beauty to your trip.
Malaysia
Malaysia is a multicultural melting pot, where Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences blend seamlessly. From the bustling metropolis of Kuala Lumpur to the pristine beaches and emerald rainforests of Langkawi, Malaysia is a fabulous destination for travelers. Since English is one of their official languages, this Southeast Asia country is an easy place to start your adventures.
Myanmar
The captivating beauty of Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, has become obscured with the recent military coup. As a result, it’s not safe to travel to Myanmar at this time, though you can still set foot in this country at the Golden Triangle.
Philippines
An archipelago nation of over 7,000 islands, the vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty of the Philippines is not to be missed. Come to enjoy the rich history, pristine beaches, warm hospitality, delicious food, and friendly smiles of the Filipino people.
Singapore
A global hub for innovation and architecture, Singapore is a futuristic cityscape. While you can spend 24 hours marveling at the airport alone, there’s even more incredible sites to behold past customs. This small country is one of the most expensive countries in Southeast Asia. Your budget will determine how long you’d like to visit!
Thailand
Island hop your way through paradise! From the lush rainforests of Sumatra to the vibrant coral reefs of Papua, Indonesia stretches across the width of Southeast Asia. The islands boast rich biodiversity and it’s a hot spot for orangutans, Komodo dragons, and whale sharks.
Timor-Leste
Most people are unfamiliar with the youngest nation in Southeast Asia, Timor-Leste. An untouched treasure, Timor-Leste gets about 7 tourists a day. The only way to get to Timor-Leste is from Bali or Darwin, or by land from Kupang, Indonesia. The remote location and the incredible beaches make this Southeast Asia country a prized destination.
Vietnam
Delve into the rich history and captivating landscapes of Vietnam. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground passages used during the Vietnam War, cruise down the awe-inspiring Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with towering limestone formations, and lose yourself in the charming city of Hoi An, known for its colorful lanterns and traditional architecture.
While the region of Southeast Asia has a lot of cultural similarities, each country is a distinctive treasure and is worth a visit. We’re happy to help you learn how with helpful guides to each country as well as important things to remember while traveling between the countries of Southeast Asia.