Cities

Southeast Asia is a prime destination for any urban explorer. The largest cities in the region are Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City, and the chaos of these giant metropolises provides a great opportunity to walk around, immerse yourself in local life, and get utterly lost among the madness. Also massive, Hanoi offers a similar level of mesmerizing activity, but with a distinct Vietnamese feel, and a wonderfully authentic core in the old quarter.
Smaller in size, but by no means lacking in atmosphere or things to do are Vientiane and Phnom Penh, the capitals of Laos and Cambodia respectively. Both cities exhibit a fascinating mix between the past and the future, reflecting peoples eager to embrace their destiny, while also paying homage to their heritage.
As the cities get smaller, the vibe gets more relaxed, and nowhere is more emblematic of this than Battambang. Despite being the second biggest metropolitan area in Cambodia, time seems to run slow here, far from the hectic pace of its larger cousins in the region. Over in Laos, Luang Prabang has a similar carefree atmosphere, but with a distinct sophistication and regality, carried over from its days as a seat of kings.
Finally, Chiang Mai, the largest city in Northern Thailand and primarily known for its role as the trekking hub of Thailand, also has plenty to offer in terms of urban life. The ancient city wall surrounds the old part of the city, which is practically overflowing with temples and monasteries to visit.
Whether you’re looking for somewhere to get lost in the chaos, or ancient streets lined with structures from bygone eras, there is a city to suit your needs in South East Asia.

Best Attractions and Activities in Phnom Penh

During its heyday in the 1920’s, Phnom Penh was considered by many to be the most beautiful city in South East Asia, and indeed Asia as a whole. Sadly, the rest of the 20th century would usher in some incredibly hard times for the city’s population, and it’s only in recent years that it has recovered some of its old glory and reanimated itself as a beautiful, vibrant city once more.

Luang Prabang & Vientiane

Historically the epicentre of Lao culture and history, Northern Laos is centred on the country’s two most significant cities. Sophisticated Luang Prabang has a rich heritage, while Vientiane, by far the largest city in Laos, strides boldly into the future, bridging the gap between traditional Laotian life and cosmopolitan modernity.

What to do in Ho Chi Minh City; A Guide to Vietnam’s Biggest City

While lacking the raw authenticity of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City is the cosmopolitan and financial heart of Vietnam, featuring towering skyscrapers, insane traffic and great food. The city also contains many famous attractions, and probably the most active and lively nightlife anywhere in Vietnam.

The Ultimate Guide to Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is the beating heart of the original Vietnamese homeland. This is a city bursting with life, activity and authenticity. From the chaotic streets and alleys of Old Quarter, to the tranquil shores of West Lake, there is something in the city for every kind of traveller, and your guests sure to lose yourself in this wonderful exhibition of everything Vietnam has to offer.

Best Experiences and Attractions in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has always been the heart of Northern Thailand, and it shows in the extensive list of ancient temples located within the well-preserved old city walls. In modern times it has also emerged as the foremost trekking hub in the whole country, but in this article we focus primarily on activities within the city and its immediate surroundings.

Guide to Bangkok’s Top Attractions

The biggest city in mainland South East Asia, Bangkok has long occupied a special place in traveller’s hearts. Filled to the brim with temples and monasteries, as well as hosting perhaps the liveliest nightlife in all of Asia, it’s a city packed with unique experiences.

Vietnam

Laos

Cambodia

Thailand

Indonesia

Myanmar