Backpacking can be overwhelming when it comes to where to go and what to do. However, from my own experience of backpacking, I will let you know where to go and where not to go, depending on how you want your backpacking experience to be like.  

If you are looking for an inbetween of a relaxing and cultural experience, and the fast-paced hostel night life, this is perfect for you. To learn more about your next backpacking adventure in South-East Asia, continue reading this insightful guide.

The Go-To Backpacking Spots Around South-East Asia

 

Thailand

Places to Go: Phuket, Phi Phi Island, Ko Tao, Ko Pha Ngan , Khao Sok, Pai

Thailand is the hub of South-East Asia, which makes it the first place you will go to. As it is the most popular, you will have no problem with it being a ghost town, tourists from all over the world go to Thailand. Land in Bangkok, have a couple of nights there, go to Khao San Road, regret it, then get a flight to Phuket.

Phuket

Phuket is one of those places that is very touristy, which will be perfect for your first place to go to for settling into the country. With lovely beaches, great nightlife, a lot of english speaking areas and the famous Maya Bay where The Beach was filmed, it makes it great for your first place.

Phi Phi Island

The next location is the party island next to Phuket: Phi Phi Island. One you will not forget with lovely beaches that are perfect for snorkelling in the day and getting drunk with cheap cocktails in the night. You can also watch other tourists box each other at the famous bar called Reggae Boxing Bar.

Ko Tao, Ko Pha Ngan

Koh Tao and Ko Pha Ngan are right next to each other, with similar vibes as the Phi Phi Island such as nice beaches and scenery. If you time it right, you will be able to experience the full moon party on Koh Pha Ngan, which is a fun event on the beachfront of the island with live music.

Khao Sok, Pai

When travelling north to go to Pai, stop off at Khao Sok if you want to experience a more remote rainforest town. Getting to Pai is hard, as it is right at the top left of the country in the mountains, but they do not call it Pai hole for no reason. You will not want to leave, the nature, the nightlife, the endless things to do in the little town, it is one to not miss.

 

Vietnam

Places to Go: Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Giang Loop, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City

Hanoi

Vietnam, rich with history, culture and great food is the next place to go to. Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam which is great for sight seeing and its famous beer street (the best part of backpacking for me). Other interesting things to do in this city is visit the French quarter, visit the train street and try traditional Pho that came from Hanoi itself.

Sapa

Sapa is near Hanoi and it is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. The nature and the rice fields were great. The town is quite small, but I stayed outside the town which I recommend if you want to take things slow after Hanoi.

Ha Giang Loop

This is actually a motorbike tour around the rural parts of north Vietnam which is one to not miss. You can either drive your own bike or get an easy driver who drives you around. The views you will see are unforgettable, it is perfect to socialise as it is a popular place for tourists to go to. The hosts are very easy to get along with who even join in on the drinking and partying.

Hoi An

This town is known to be the lantern town, with its stunning lantern lights all around the town to see at night. This can either be a slower and relaxing part of your travels, or a party hostel area, it is up to you, but it definitely is beautiful to walk around at night.

Ho Chi Minh City

The former capital, Ho Chi Minh City, is a great place to go if you like city breaks as there is a lot to explore in this city. Ho Chi Minh City is known for its war museums that show the shocking side of what the Americans did to the Vietnamese.

 

Final Thoughts on Go-To Backpacking Spots in South-East Asia

Some final thoughts are that you do need to prepare for visas in these countries. However, if you do hold a British Citizenship and a British passport you automatically get 60 days in Thailand and 45 days visa-free. This will save you some money during your travels to spend on all of the exciting activities you will come across, as well as beer.

 

After completing a University degree in Journalism, Darcy Fowler has dedicated a lot of time to travelling around the world and experiencing a variety of cultures. Darcy is determined to provide interesting and insightful content with the hope of inspiring others.