Why Everyone is Booking Trips to Southeast Asia

Asia has seen the largest increase in US travelers than any other region besides Australia when comparing the percentage growth from 2022 to 2023. This region of the world comprises various countries with incredible culture, history, and diversity.

Learn why many travelers are flocking to Southeast Asia to experience all that it has to offer and you can do it on a budget. Whether you are backpacking, traveling on a budget, or looking to splurge on that next trip, Southeast Asia offers something for everyone and every budget.

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Japan

Japan offers unique travel experiences, and the best times to travel here include between March and May and also September and November. The Japanese culture thrives on festivals, so plan to immerse yourself in one, such as the Gion Matsuri or the famous Cherry Blossom Festival. You can also explore the culture of this vibrant country by participating in a Japanese Tea Ceremony, learning to make sushi, or watching a Sumo wrestling match.

Top foods to try include:

• Unagi, grilled river eel
• Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake
• Yakitori, a grilled chicken skewer

Top places to visit include:

• Kyoto’s Kinkaku-ji temple pavilion
• Tokyo’s Imperial Palace and Ghibli Museum
• Osaka Castle

If you’re feeling on the adventurous side, you might like to:

• Go scuba diving around Ishigaki Island
• Ski the mountainous slopes
• Kayak around Yambaru National Park
• Take a cycling route in the Inland Sea area

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South Korea

South Korea is another unique and exciting Southeast Asia destination. The best time to travel here is during the Spring months, including April through June, and also September through November.

The culture of South Korea centers on group harmony and the value of family, friends, tradition, and ancestors. A few ways you can immerse yourself in the culture include bowing whenever you greet elderly South Koreans, removing shoes prior to entering a home, and dressing up for activities and festivals in the cities. 

Top foods to try include:

• Bulgogi
• Japchae
• Kimchi
• Hoeddeok 

The top sites to see include:

• Sinheungsa Temple on Mount Seorak
• Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul
• Hwaseong Fortress
• Deoksugung Palace 

For your adventurous side, you might like to:

• Kayak the Han River
• Zipline to Nami Island
• Go hiking in the mountainous regions
• Paraglide in Danyang 

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Thailand

The best times to travel to Thailand are between November and February. Thai culture focuses on serenity and warmly welcomes travelers everywhere. To immerse yourself in their culture, schedule a Thai massage, visit the Night Bazaar, share meals with locals, and eat street food. You may also want to take a cooking class, many of which include a trip to the local market beforehand for ingredients.

Top foods to try include:

• Spicy Shrimp Soup (Tom Yum Goong)
• Spicy Green Papaya Salad (Som Tam)
• Green Chicken Curry (Gaeng Keow Wan Kai)

Top sites to see here include the many temples found in Chiang Mai. Also, schedule time to attend festivals, such as the full moon party and the Songkran Festival (the Thai New Year celebration).

For your adventurous side, you might like to:

• Go scuba diving at Ko Tao
• Take jungle treks in the north
• Interact with elephants near Chiang Mai
• Hike in Khao Sok National Park

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Malaysia

For the best climate, head to Malaysia between April and September during the dry season. As a multi-cultural society, you will find diverse cultural activities on offer throughout this country. Immerse yourself by trying various Malaysian cuisines, attending festivals, and haggling with local market vendors.

Top foods to try include:

• Banana leaf rice with vegetables, curried meat or fish, and pickles
• Nasi Dagang
• Kimchi
• Hokkien mee 

Sites to see include:

• The temples of Kuala Lumper, including the Sri Maha Mariamman
• Petronas Twin Towers
• Fort Cornwallis in Penang

If you’re feeling on the adventurous side, you’ll find plenty to do here, including zip lining, wake boarding, whitewater rafting, scuba diving, cave exploring, rock climbing, hiking, and even surfing. 

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