Bandung, Indonesia

The capital of Indonesia’s West Java is a haven for nature lovers.

Explore the picturesque tea plantations, unwind at the many hot springs, or go glamping and see the stars sparkle at night.  

Medan, Indonesia

Being the third largest city in Indonesia, Medan is a port of call for visitors to the island. It is also the base to explore Lake Toba, the world’s largest volcanic lake. 

Visitors to Lake Toba can spend a couple of days in the area to enjoy the rustic environment and hop over to Sipoholon Hot Springs in the proximity to enjoy the spectacular view of Lake Toba itself. 

Surabaya, Indonesia

Located on the eastern side of Java, Surabaya is the second largest city in the country.

While most travellers skip Surabaya in favour of its bigger brother on the western side of Java, Jakarta, do not be so quick to dismiss this historic city filled with interesting nuggets.

A four-hour drive will bring you to Mt Bromo. For nature lovers, be sure to take in the spectacular view at sunrise as you hike up the mountain.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi was first made Vietnam’s capital more than 1,000 years ago by emperor Ly Thai To.

The capital serves as the historic heart of the country with an eye-opening mix of French Colonial architecture and ancient temples.  

Manila, Philippines

The capital of Philippines may be a heaving metropolis but as with any city of about 15 million, you’ll find oases of culture and creativity hidden amid the urban jungle.

To learn more about Manila’s rich cultural heritage, visit Intramuros, a medieval walled city with churches and schools lining its cobblestone streets. You can take a guided tour of the district on a horse-drawn calesa (calash) for a small fee. The city is also home to many top-class museums and galleries.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Once called the ‘Pearl of Asia’, the Cambodian capital is an international master of disguise.

A visit to the Royal Palace is a good experience to learn about the Hindu and Buddhist cultures that shaped modern Cambodia.

Cebu, Philippines

The centre of the Visayas, Cebu City is a fun-loving metropolis within easy reach of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.

Escape to Cebu for the perfect beach holiday. 

Koh Samui, Thailand

One of Thailand’s biggest islands, second only to Phuket, Koh Samui has a multi-cultural population of more than 63,000.

Beach lovers have been flocking here from all over the world - some using it as a base to explore nearby islands, and others falling in love with it and never leaving at all.

Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand. It is so rich in history and cultural diversity that the island offers a suite of experiences for all.  

You can be a backpacker on a tight budget and still enjoy great food and affordable accommodation and activities, or you could be a well-heeled traveller looking for the most glamorous five-star resorts and spas in Southeast Asia.