Brunei Darussalam: Cultural & Heritage Tourism
Both Islam and Malay heritage intertwined provide the basis for Brunei’s culture; see both up close in the country’s museums and mosques. 1.1. Urban Heritage Tourism The collections in Brunei’s museums reveal the nation’s long and storied past, as told through regalia, traditional instruments, and Malay technology. 1.1.1. Brunei Museum The Brunei Museum contains five […]
Living Local: 5 Unforgettable Homestay Experiences in Southeast Asia
In parts of Southeast Asia, you’ll find few hotels but plenty of homestays, where locals open their own homes for travelers to stay in. Guests at these homestays experience the “local” lifestyle and culture intimately; the accommodations tend to be basic (no air conditioning; squat toilets located far from the rooms; sometimes no electricity) but […]
3 Top Cultural & Spiritual Activities in Southeast Asia
Take it slow in Southeast Asia, and you’ll be amazed at the cultural and spiritual activities around you that you’ll suddenly have time to enjoy. The region’s well-developed local cultures reward visitors who take the time to learn their ins and outs: invest in Southeast Asia’s cooking classes, wellness retreats and art workshops, and by […]
Eight Southeast Asia Cities with History
When tourists experience the delicious food and the gentle culture of Southeast Asia’s cities, they unconsciously plug into Southeast Asia’s history. The region’s cuisine and culture are, after all, the results of thousands of years of cultures growing and intermingling across borders, absorbing outside influences and remaking them into something totally unique to Southeast Asia. […]
Cruises in Southeast Asia for Seniors
The nations of Southeast Asia have always looked to the sea. Historically part of maritime empires, the islands and coastlines that make up the best part of the region have long cultivated cities and cultures that respected oceangoing trade, and welcomed the visitors that came with it. A growing number of cruise companies now do […]
Five Cultural Festivals in Southeast Asia You Shouldn’t Miss
Schedule your visit to Southeast Asia right, and you’ll arrive just in time for a festival – the best occasion to encounter the region’s many cultures face-to-face. From Cambodia to Vietnam, every country in Southeast Asia celebrates a festival (or more than one) that best encapsulates their respective history, beliefs and values. These festivals draw […]
How to Stay Safe while Traveling in Southeast Asia
Is Southeast Asia safe for travelers? The answer to that should be – is any place in the world safe for travelers? While travelers in the region are relatively free from crime, disaster and armed violence, some parts must necessarily be riskier than others. “There are a few small regions I would probably avoid because […]
Cambodia: Community-Based Tourism
Don’t just visit a Cambodia community – be part of it, by sleeping in a local homestay and participating in local activities. 1.1. Chi Phat Community-based Ecotourism in Koh Kong Province Chi Phat in Koh Kong province is one of Southeast Asia’s largest tracts of rainforest, and combines both natural and cultural treasures in a […]
Shopping in Southeast Asia’s Traditional Markets
Malls may be taking over Southeast Asia’s cities, but don’t count traditional markets out yet. Markets are still going strong, even in the region’s increasingly air-conditioned shopping landscape. That’s because old habits die hard: families in Asia still prefer to get their fresh produce, traditional crafts and household items from open-air (and very aromatic) traditional […]
Top Senior-Friendly Destinations in Southeast Asia
“Baby boomers” – today’s traveling seniors – practically discovered Southeast Asia travel for the West. Boomers discovered Bali’s surfing. Boomers opened up Indochina. And boomers invented the backpacker hostels that now crop up at every top Southeast Asia city. Now that boomers are retired with spending money to spare, they’re coming back to Southeast Asia […]