The Best of Southeast Asia: My Top 10 Picks

Southeast Asia is a wild ride—especially for backpackers. I can say with confidence that it’s by far the best region in the world for comfortable, budget-friendly backpacking, particularly for newer or less experienced travelers.

The countries in Southeast Asia are absolutely incredible, each offering something unique with their rich cultures, stunning nature, and warm hospitality.

There’s so much to explore in this part of the world—and even better, it has one of the most active and welcoming backpacking communities out there. From hidden gems to iconic destinations to massive, bustling cities, Southeast Asia is packed with places that left me in awe.

One of the best things about this region is how much variety you can experience in just a few countries. Whether it’s beaches, mountains, jungles, islands, or vibrant cities, you can have it all here.

Many countries in Southeast Asia are incredibly diverse in their landscapes and adventures, meaning you’re never stuck seeing just one type of scenery.

What also makes Southeast Asia such a great place for long-term travel is how easy it is to navigate. Aside from a few flights to island countries like the Philippines and Indonesia, I was able to travel almost entirely overland.

It’s safe, affordable, and surprisingly convenient to move between countries.

In total, I’ve spent over half a year exploring Southeast Asia, visiting Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and Indonesia. As a younger backpacker, I found it to be the perfect region to get started.

It’s exciting, it’s budget-friendly, and it offers a taste of just about everything.

So keep reading to find out my absolute top 10 favorite places in the region, you won’t want to miss these!

Hoi An, Vietnam

Starting off with the charming and ancient town of Hoi An, located in central Vietnam along the coastline. Just south of Da Nang, Hoi An is easy to reach by plane, overnight bus, or train.

This UNESCO World Heritage town is a favorite among backpackers and travelers alike—and it’s easy to see why.

Hoi An is a beautiful blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French colonial influences, with a rich culture and unique character that sets it apart from other places in Vietnam. It’s most famous for its custom-made tailored clothing—some of the best in the world.

You can get nearly anything made to fit your body perfectly in just 1–3 days, and the quality is incredible.

But tailoring is just the beginning. Hoi An is also known for its well-preserved historic architecture, charming riverside cafes, nearby beaches, immersive cooking classes, and the iconic basket-shaped coconut boats.

Whether you prefer to walk or bike, it’s easy to explore the town, coast, and countryside.

As the sun sets, Hoi A transforms. The city comes alive at night with glowing lanterns lighting up the streets and floating along the river, creating a magical atmosphere. The night market buzzes with life, and there are plenty of great spots to grab dinner or enjoy a drink.

It’s truly one of the most memorable places in Vietnam, and a must-visit on any Southeast Asia itinerary.

Gili Air, Indonesia

Next up is the small, beautiful, and relaxing island of Gili Air, located just off the coast of Lombok in Indonesia. The Gili Islands are made up of three spots—Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. Gili Air offers the perfect middle ground.

It has a peaceful, laid-back vibe but still gives you the option to socialize or enjoy a drink in the evening without feeling overwhelmed.

The pace here is calm and easygoing. With no motorized vehicles on the island, only bicycles and horse carts, Gili Air feels quiet and slow in the best way. It’s an ideal place to unwind.

The island is known for its amazing snorkeling and diving. The waters are full of marine life, and you can often spot sea turtles just off the shore. Whether you’re an experienced diver or just want to float with a snorkel, the underwater world here is unforgettable.

You’ll also find plenty of great places to eat right along the water. It’s perfect for starting your day with a peaceful sunrise coffee or ending it with a sunset cocktail. Gili Air is a great place to disconnect, slow down, and truly relax.

Kuta, Lombok, Indonesia

Next is the surfer’s paradise of Kuta Lombok, located on the southern coast of Indonesia’s Lombok Island. This coastal town has quickly become one of Southeast Asia’s rising gems, especially for those seeking a more laid-back and authentic alternative to Bali.

Kuta offers the perfect mix of development and raw natural beauty. There are plenty of places to stay, eat, and even get remote work done, which makes it a popular choice for digital nomads.

But just beyond the town center, you’ll find peaceful, uncrowded beaches that feel untouched and serene, ideal for surfing or simply soaking in the views.

The surf culture here is thriving. With dozens of surf schools and rental shops, it’s a great place for both beginners and experienced surfers. The nearby coastline is dotted with world-class surf breaks, scenic coves, and lookout points that are perfect for day trips.

Beaches like Tanjung Aan and Selong Belanak offer soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, making them great for swimming, relaxing, or catching the sunset.

What sets Kuta apart is its balance. While the town is growing and attracting more travelers, it still maintains a strong local charm. The streets are filled with friendly faces, family-owned warungs, and a relaxed pace of life that makes you want to stay longer than planned.

If you’re looking for a place to surf, connect with other travelers, enjoy nature, and experience a side of Indonesia that’s a bit more off the radar, Kuta Lombok is the spot.

Siquijor Island, Philippines

Next up is the magical island of Siquijor, located just south of Cebu and Bohol in the Philippines. This small island hasn’t yet been hit by the full wave of mass tourism, making it feel like a peaceful, hidden gem compared to the country’s more popular destinations.

Siquijor is often referred to as “the healing island”, known for its mystical energy, centuries-old folklore, and traditional healing practices. Many locals still perform spiritual rituals and healing ceremonies that are deeply rooted in the island’s cultural identity.

There’s something truly special about the atmosphere here, it feels calm, soulful, and untouched.

But Siquijor isn’t just about mystery and magic. It’s full of natural beauty and adventure. You can spend your days swimming in waterfalls, cliff jumping into turquoise pools, or diving in some of the most pristine coral reefs in the country.

The beaches are peaceful and scenic, often with hardly anyone else around.

The best way to explore the island is by scooter. In just a day or two, you can ride through winding mountain roads, stop by quiet coastal villages, and take in panoramic views of the sea and jungle-covered hills.

Siquijor’s charm lies in its simplicity, laid-back vibes, friendly locals, and nature at its finest.

It’s the kind of place where you come to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect, with nature, with local culture, and maybe even with yourself.