Top 10 Things to Know While Backpacking Across Southeast Asia
Known for its beautiful beaches, mesmerizing historical sites, and a touch of adventure, Southeast Asia has become one of the favorite destinations for travelers from around the world. The diversity of the region will never fail to captivate you, and there's so much to see that, no matter how much time you spend, you'll still feel like you're missing out on something!While many backpackers and globetrotters are setting out to explore Southeast Asia, they often experience culture shock, as this part of the world is vastly different from the West. Therefore, it's always good to do a bit of research before setting out.
Here are 10 useful tips to help you if you're planning to go backpacking across Southeast Asia.
When backpacking, you'll likely have only a rucksack with you, so it must be packed efficiently to avoid missing anything essential. All of Southeast Asia falls under the tropical climatic zone, experiencing hot and humid weather throughout the year, except during the monsoon months.
Pack comfortable, airy cotton clothes, and don't forget a raincoat or umbrella. Carry sunscreen and sunglasses, as they will be very helpful. Remember, the people in this region are somewhat conservative, and over-exposed clothes aren't well accepted. While you can wear shorts and swimwear near the beach, it's not suitable everywhere. Bring clothes that will cover you properly. Also, get a pair of comfortable shoes, as you might have to walk a lot!
Almost everything is negotiable in this region. Bargaining in Southeast Asian countries can be more beneficial than anywhere else in the world! Whether it's related to the prices of goods at a market or the cost of a ride in local transport, you can haggle for almost everything.
Shopkeepers, vendors, and cab drivers tend to charge more from Westerners (they'll easily understand from your accent), so you have to show your bargaining brilliance almost everywhere. You'll find several vendors selling similar products, so don't hesitate to ask for a lower price. Someone will surely give it to you.
You don't need to spend a lot of money and go to high-end restaurants for good food. Southeast Asia is a paradise for foodies, with each country offering different cuisines. If you want amazing cheap food, stroll down the night markets where people usually gather for some food and drink after the day's work.
Whether it's the delicious Pho in Vietnamese markets or the fried insects in Bangkok, your platter will always be full of surprises!
Knowing how to say Hello and Thank you, as well as a couple of other words in the local languages, will surely help you while traveling across different countries. This will help break the ice and connect you with the locals.
While English is largely used in this part of the world, there's no need to worry! There are several tribal groups around Sa Pa in Vietnam, the Torajans of Sulawesi in Indonesia, and others who are unique and mingling with them will make your journey more beautiful.
Taking local transport is essential for backpackers. In Southeast Asian countries, traveling in local modes is cheap and comfortable. You'll get to travel with the natives, who can tell you more about where to go and what to see, information that websites and guidebooks might never provide.
Often, the driver will take on the role of a de facto guide and tell you about the history of the place you are heading towards. The journeys in local transport can be one of the highlights of your trip.
Your journey will take on a new meaning when you engage in philanthropic work for the locals. Although the region is developing, certain sections of society still need help, and you can contribute meaningfully to improving their lives. Organizations like Volunteering Solutions, Love Volunteers, GoEco, Volunteer World, We Are Bamboo, and others offer amazing volunteering projects in different Southeast Asian countries.
This will not only add enriching experiences to your trip but also count in the days ahead. You'll get to broaden your network by connecting with people from all across the world.
It is advisable not to exchange your money at the airport, as it might turn out to be expensive. You can exchange money at authorized foreign exchange merchants or banks in urban areas. Make sure to count the money on the spot and demand the full amount if anything is missing, as people often return less than they should.
Also, carry enough cash because your cards might not work everywhere. In rural areas, it's better to avoid depending on cards.
The entire Southeast Asian region will open up a world of fine architecture with Hindu temples and Buddhist monasteries existing side by side. From the Wats of Thailand to Angkor in Cambodia and Borobudur in Indonesia, you can't miss these grand establishments that are hundreds of years old and still hold on to their charm and aura.
The entire stretch has some amazing beaches with golden sand and azure waters, with coconut and palm trees adding color to the view. You can spend hours sitting there with a bottle of chilled beer or a book and relax your muscles. You can also try water sports like scuba diving, parasailing, and snorkeling.
It's very important to stay healthy while you are on the go. The climate of Southeast Asia is sultry, so you need to drink a lot of water to keep yourself hydrated. Some places have many mosquitoes, so carry mosquito and insect repellents.
Also, when eating out, make sure you don't get any stomach infections. Consult your doctor before you set out on your journey and make sure to get the necessary vaccinations. Being healthy is the prime need for a happy journey.
Hope you'll have a great time exploring the Southeast Asian countries.
Happy journey!