Originally known as Kampong Som, the small town was renamed Sihanoukville in 1959 in honor of Cambodia’s King Norodom Sihanouk.

It wasn’t until later, in the early 2000s, that foreign investment turned it into the country’s premier resort city.

While Sihanoukville has evolved from a backwater into a city teeming with hotels and casinos, it still reels travelers looking to explore its lush wetlands, endless shoreline, and many islands.

Chill out at the beach

Soak up Sihanoukville’s laid-back vibes on the city’s best beaches – Ochheuteal, Otres, and Sokha.

These narrow, tree-lined beaches facing the Gulf of Thailand are blanketed by soft, white sand.

You’ll find a slew of excellent restaurants, cafes, bars, and hotels at Ochheuteal Beach, but for quieter, less-crowded escapades with equally beautiful waters, head to Sokha’s shores farther up north.

The inviting, relaxed atmosphere along these beaches attracts tourists and locals who enjoy taking a dip in the warm waters, riding jet skis, or unwinding with a tipple while watching the sunset.

Admire Cambodia’s giant copper statues

Standing on a 6-meter high pedestal at a roundabout near Ream Beach is a statue of Preah Thong and Neang Neak, two symbolic figures in Khmer culture.

The depiction of the ceremonial lifting of the veil between Indian prince Preah Thong and his naga bride – co-founders of the pre-Angkorian state of Funan – signifies the birth of Khmer culture and Cambodia’s rich heritage.

At a whopping 21 meters tall, these sculptures, erected in April 2022, are the most significant copper statues in the country.

Cambodian sculptor Sok Chamroeun and his team took a year to complete the piece, which is replete with beautifully detailed, historically accurate clothing and jewelry.

Visit a hilltop temple.

Nestled on a hill overlooking the city and its scenic coast, Wat Leu is one of Sihanoukville’s five main temples.

Its exterior, with tiered roofs decorated with gold-hued finials of the naga or mythical serpent, is one of its most visually striking elements.

Inside, the space is adorned with vibrant, colorful paintings of the Buddha’s life, and it’s where you can see locals offering food to the monks.

The area surrounding Wat Leu is also worth a look, with ancient stupas and golden statues of Buddha dotting the grounds.

Enjoy the waterfalls

If you want to relax in a serene, natural setting, go to the beautiful cascades of Kbal Chhay, just 16 kilometers from the city center.

This horizontal, multi-tiered waterfall, with drops of up to 5 meters, is surrounded by dense tropical forests and is one of Cambodia’s most picturesque.

You can cool off in the waist-deep waters, set up a picnic or hammock along the rocky banks, or tuck into local delights from nearby stalls while enjoying the splendid scenery.

Trek a national park

Ream National Park is just 18 kilometers from Sihanoukville city, a 14,700-hectare protected area encompassing forests, wetlands, rivers, reefs, and islands.

Established in 1993, the park boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including various species of marine life, and is also home to 30,000 people who live in small communes.

Choose from several guided tours at the park, or, for the more adventurous, you can explore the sprawling area.

There’s plenty to do here. Highlights include birdwatching in the mangroves, trekking desolate beaches to view diverse flora, and taking a boat out to sea to spot dolphins, dugongs, and turtles.

Go island-hopping

One of the best ways to take in Sihanoukville’s beauty is by exploring the many islands that dot its coast.

Koh Rong, with pristine waters and powdery, white sand, is the closest island to the mainland and by far one of the most popular.

There are many beaches to check out here, from the vibrant Kaoh Touch with its array of restaurants and bars to the quieter, tranquil Long Set Beach, where you can soak up the sun.

From Koh Rong, head out to the idyllic Koh Ta Kiev, an excellent spot for a digital detox. The island is void of power and telephone lines, and most resorts use solar panels or generators.

Koh Thmei, an island part of Ream National Park, is lined with unspoiled beaches and mangrove forests. This paradise pocket is a favorite among nature lovers who like spotting birds and other wildlife.

Explore marine life

Sihanoukville abounds with multiple diving spots off the coast of the city.

Novice divers would be thrilled with the sight of seahorses, shoals of fish, and coral life skirting Koh Rong Sanloem, the sister island of Koh Rong, and a 45-minute ferry ride from the city.

Another top pick is Koh Tang which lies 52 kilometers from the mainland, a journey that takes 1.5 hours by speed boat. This island is surrounded by more than a dozen dive sites teeming with marine life, from beautiful coral reefs and barracudas to octopuses and pipefish.

More experienced divers may enjoy the less explored waters of Koh Prins, where they can feast their eyes on larger underwater creatures like whales, giant barracuda, and marlins.

A self-professed hopeless romantic, the Indonesian-Singaporean singer-songwriter’s relatable lyrics and catchy melodies have struck a chord with listeners, making him one of Singapore’s most-streamed English-language artists.

With his first major label single, “Shortcut to Heaven,” released by RedRecords, the lullaby is poised to take his meditations on love and vulnerability to a broader audience.

What do you like most about Singapore?

I like how everything is so close by. After spending a lot of time overseas, in Singapore, I never say anywhere is too far away.

What’s your favorite Singaporean dish? And the best spot for it?

My favorite dish is char kway teow, and my search for the best one is ongoing. But I’m not a good judge because they’re all good to me.

Where do you go to get your Indonesian food fixed?

For Indo food, I’m a big fan of this Indonesian barbecue chicken paired with curry rice and an omelet. I’ve never even had this in Indonesia, but you can find this around Orchard Road in the food courts.

What is your favorite music venue in the city?

Esplanade is always a unique experience. There are many different stages, but one time, I watched Ingrid Michaelson in the big concert hall and felt like I was in another dimension because of the fantastic acoustics. I’d love to perform there one day.

Where do you go when you’re looking for inspiration?

Aside from my own experiences, I love hearing other people’s stories and putting myself in their shoes. Everyone is the main character of their life and has a story to tell. You all inspire me.

If you could collaborate with any Singaporean artist, who would it be?

I think a cute duet with Shye could be fantastic.

Which neighborhoods would you recommend people check out?

I am so essential, but Orchard Road! It’s constantly changing with so many new pop-ups, attractions, and restaurants, so I’m never bored.

What’s the most underrated attraction in Singapore?

My favorite attraction is Gardens by the Bay. To me, it is the only tourist attraction that I could keep visiting forever. Every Singaporean feels like a tourist because we are all transported to a different world.

Describe your ideal first date.

Picking her up from her house.
Exploring a carnival together.
Winning her a prize.
Taking her to dinner.
Going for a walk to look for ice cream.
Sending her home.
NO KISSING ON THE FIRST DATE.

Best place to confess your feelings to someone?

The best place is online through a song you wrote them

Despite its reputation as Vietnam’s financial powerhouse, the city formerly known as Saigon manages to remain fun, friendly, and easy on the wallet, making it an ideal outpost for digital nomads.

Whether it’s a hip cafe or chic collaborative space, you’ll find something that suits your needs in the city on the Saigon River.

Soo Kafe

Located in downtown Ben Thanh ward, Soo Kafe is known for its wide selection of specialty coffees and quiet ambiance amid the hustle and bustle.

Perched on a second-floor walk-up opposite Ben Thanh Market, this cozy exposed brick and wood space boasts high ceilings and two lovely balconies where you can take a break from work.

Dominating the space are floor-to-ceiling shelves stacked with hundreds of books – a leftover from the previous tenants, the Hidden Elephant Book Cafe – which you can peruse to your heart’s content amid the aroma of freshly-brewed java.

The Workshop

Situated on the top floor of a heritage building in the historic Ben Nghe ward, The Workshop is a spacious coffee bar with distinctive large glass windows that let in cool breezes and plenty of natural light.

Besides a rotating cast of single-origin brews, their kitchen also serves up all-day breakfast and nourishing salads to keep you going.

Here you can expect soft jazz bathing the space in relaxing vibes throughout the day – if you manage to locate their nondescript ground floor entrance, of course.

Dreamplex Nguyen Trung Ngan

The flagship outlet of a homegrown co-working empire, Dreamplex Nguyen Trung Ngan in District 1, offers a flexible, open-concept office environment spread across three floors.

There’s also a full-service cafe on site, serving hand-crafted beverages and an assortment of snacks and pastries to visitors and members alike.

As one of Ho Chi Minh City’s pioneering co-working spaces, it has even hosted visiting US president Barack Obama, cementing its status as an institution.

Toong Pham Ngoc Thach

Located a skip and a hop away from the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, Toong’s Pham Ngoc Thach outpost is a stylish co-working space perfect for creative professionals.

Formerly the ornate residence of Vietnamese royalty designed by famed architect Ngo Viet Thu of Independence Palace fame, this five-story building also has a rooftop garden if you prefer a workstation under the sun.

The space also often hosts contemporary art exhibitions on top of regular networking sessions for regulars, so there’s always something to do when you visit.

Work Not Work

Work Not Work boasts eight floors of workspaces, private offices, and event rooms for hire in the Binh Thanh district.

This playfully named place has a cafeteria, private lockers, meeting rooms, and a graffitied rooftop balcony with enviable views.

Billed as a place for work that doesn’t feel like work, its well-traveled founders strive to create an inclusive, collaborative environment perfect for making new connections or simply working away on your laptop.

This imposing mansion – replete with columns, symmetrical balusters, and porticos – was built in the 1840s for the Ramsden family, one of Britain’s wealthiest.

The clan, renowned sugar tycoons in Port Wellesley (now Seberang Perai), first set up the estate as a sugar plantation before turning it into a rubber estate in the early 20th century.

This double-story bungalow with a dance hall, balcony, and ten rooms – each with five or six doors – earned it the moniker “The 99-Door Mansion”.

Business flourished until World War II when the manor was used as the headquarters of the Japanese army during their occupation of Malaya.

John St. Maur Ramsden, the baronet’s eldest son who owned it, returned to the home after the war, but three years later, things started taking a dark turn.

In June 1948, Ramsden was shot twice in the back of his head as he walked up the grand staircase of Caledonia House.

Suggested motives ranged from political violence during the postwar period to suspects such as Ramsden’s local assistant and jealous competitors.

A series of arrests and court trials transpired, but the murder remains unsolved to this day.

After Ramsden’s death, ownership of the plantation changed hands with local business people. By the 1960s, oil palm replaced rubber, but for unknown reasons, the house was left abandoned.

Rumors swirled around the dilapidated house, from reports of tortured screams to stories of a bomoh (witch doctor) who had opened the manor’s “100th door” into the supernatural world.

Today, the house – which mysteriously caught on fire in July 2020 – still stands with much of the original structure in place.

Time has ravaged the manor, with grime-covered walls, overgrown weeds, algae, and branches clawing at its facade.

Calls have been made to restore Caledonia House, but much like the manor, the whereabouts of the current owner seem to be a mystery.

Walking through the streets of Shanghai, some roads in the city center have returned to traffic, especially those close to residential areas, and large shopping malls are the busiest.

To ensure passenger safety, Shanghai net taxi drivers enforce nucleic acid once every 24 hours, along with additional antigen testing. Passengers are also required to scan the car’s place code for registration once they get on board.

First day of dine-in in Shanghai: even high-end restaurants with thousands of dollars per person are full!

On the first day of the orderly resumption of dine-in in Shanghai, some restaurants were fully booked, including Haidilao, which was following the usual Friday dosage for the day’s stocking. “Dozens of calls had come in before the doors opened for business to book dine-in meals for today.” Lu Peipei, the shop manager of the shop, was introduced.

Not only regular restaurants but also some high-end restaurants with a per capita cost of $1,000 have seen a wave of “bookings” after the resumption of dine-in dining.

Some businesses started preparing more than 20 days ago

No one is more excited about the resumption of dine-in food in Shanghai than caterers.

“We have been preparing for the resumption of work at all times for a long time!” Lu Pei Pei introduced that since June 1, shops will be disinfected and cleaned every two to three days. Every day, the shop manager, lobby manager, and food safety officer will take turns to introduce new products and activities to staff, consolidate food safety operating rules and familiarise themselves with the newly issued company system.

Lu Pei Pei said that on the 26th, Shanghai issued a notice for the orderly resumption of dine-in, and early on the 27th, she organized the entire staff to re-wash and disinfect the shop’s tableware at high temperatures, adding up to thousands of pieces of all cups, plates, and dishes, material boxes and pots and pans. “After a whole morning of washing, everyone had a quick lunch and started to disinfect the shop environment thoroughly. Our uniforms were also re-sanitized and ironed one by one, and we were all very excited to hear that we could resume dine-in.”

Before and after video of the Shanghai outbreak

It also sits on the Ring of Fire, where 75 per cent of the world’s volcanoes are located and where most earthquakes occur.

Because of this, the country is blessed with incredible natural wonders, sublime in its beauty and potential destructiveness.

Follow us as we travel across the 17,000 islands that make up Indonesia, a journey that stretches across three time zones and over a distance more comprehensive than the contiguous US.

Kawah Ijen, the electrifying blue crater

Volcanoes are common in Indonesia, but Kawah Ijen is particularly popular for its mystifying API Biru (blue lava), which occurs due to the presence of a volcanic steam vent.

Emitting potent sulphuric gasses ignite into soaring blue flames, and when the gasses condense, they create the illusion of blue lava flowing.

While this phenomenon occurs during the day, the fire is only visible when darkness falls, as the crater comes alive with electric blue flames that seemingly cascade down the rocky volcano wall.

Witnessing this at 2 am will make you feel like you’re on a different planet altogether.

Tumpak Sewu, the thousand waterfalls

The movement of the Earth’s crust can significantly change the landscape, as plates butt up against each other, creating dramatic landscapes.

It’s no wonder that some of Indonesia’s most majestic waterfalls can be found near volcanoes.

One such waterfall is Tumpak Sewu, a waterfall that flows from its headwaters in Mount Semeru, which, at 3,676 metres, is the highest peak in Java.

The many cascades of the towering waterfall create a beautiful mist curtain among the lush green surroundings.

Mount Bromo, the majestic elevation

Of the 141 volcanoes in Indonesia, the largest cluster is Java, the most populous island.

At 2,329 metres, Mount Bromo is not the tallest volcano, but it is iconic. Bromo’s postcard-perfect image of the mountain surrounded by a sea of clouds has attracted many travellers.

But its crater also continuously spews sulphurous smoke, reminding that beneath the active volcano’s serene majesty lies the potential for catastrophic eruptions.

Tenau Hills, the spellbinding savannah

Separating Borneo from Sulawesi and Bali from Lombok Right is the Wallace Line, an imaginary line that separates the biogeographical realms of Asia and Oceania.

Compared to the lush, wooded islands of western Indonesia, the landscape east of the line is arid and relatively barren, influenced by Australia’s hot and dry winds.

Sumba, an island not far from the northwestern coast of Australia, is a sight to behold, with its rugged limestone hills and the undulating savannahs of Tenau Hills.

With its hilltop villages and megalithic tombs, the local culture also marks the meeting point of Asia and Oceania, seemingly foreign even for people from western Indonesia.

Padar Island, the multicoloured spectacle

As one moves east of the Wallace Line, animal species resemble Australia’s, with marsupials occupying Indonesia’s easternmost islands.

But at Komodo National Park, covering the islands of Komodo, Padar and Rinca, komodo dragons sit comfortably at the top of the food chain with their venomous bite.

While the giant reptiles roam free in Komodo and Rinca, the smaller Padar is more famous for its fantastic lookout point, overlooking crescent-shaped beaches with uniquely coloured sand – pearly white, rosy pink and coal black.

Toba, the largest volcanic lake

Over 300 million years of seismic and volcanic activity formed much of Indonesia’s landscape.

A perfect example of this is Lake Toba, formed by a supervolcanic eruption that occurred 69,000 to 77,000 years ago.

At over 1,145 square kilometres, Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake globally, nearly three times the size of Singapore.

The mighty lake is so large that you’ll be forgiven for thinking that you’re out on the sea while crossing its calm waters.

Maros Pangkep Geopark, the rugged landscape

A part of Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park, Maros Pangkep Geopark covers 43,750 hectares and features a distinctive karst formation known as tower karst.

This vast karst landscape is home to around 286 caves, with over 30 prehistoric caves.

Hidden among them is a secret location with 45,500-year old cave art, the oldest-known figurative painting of an animal in the world that surprised researchers as European rock art was previously believed to be the most ancient.

Raja Ampat, the rich enclave

Indonesia’s easternmost island of Papua has some of the country’s most unique fauna, including tree kangaroos and birds of paradise, but most visitors come for the underwater attractions.

Due to its location at biological crossroads, the waters around Raja Ampat are home to most of the world’s coral and reef fish species, a lavishly rich “species factory” that has no equal.

But it is also beautiful above the water’s surface, like a seascape of conical karst islands in between the famed diving spots that top the image results when you search “Raja Ampat”.

Wayag Island, in particular, is famous for its hilltop lookout that provides visitors with a perfect view of the conical karst islands amid sapphire seas.

Carstensz Pyramid, the tropical glacier

Despite having the most significant number of active volcanoes globally, Indonesia doesn’t have the distinction of having Southeast Asia’s tallest mountain. Myanmar’s 5,881-metre tall Hkakabo Razi claims that title.

But as a transcontinental country, Indonesia has a saving grace in the form of Oceania’s tallest – Carstensz Pyramid.

Known as Nemangkawi in the local language, the Papuan mountain is 4,884 metres high and one of the few tropical mountains with glaciers.

Kapuas, the longest island river

Borneo is an island comprising the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, the independent Sultanate of Brunei and five provinces of Indonesia.

Around three-quarters of the island falls within Indonesian territory, an area larger than Malaysia and Brunei put together.

Shrouded by mystery, the island is blessed with ancient rainforests and crisscrossed with many rivers, earning it the moniker “Amazon of Asia”.

The longest river in West Kalimantan’s Kapuas River is also the world’s longest island river.

To help you get travel-inspired and pick out the perfect vacation spot, we’ve curated this list of 22 must-see destinations in Southeast Asia.

Whether you’re planning to go solo or spend time with friends and family, the region has something for everyone, so you won’t have to go far to enjoy a break.

BEST FOR ADVENTURE SEEKERS

Mount Bromo, Indonesia

Rising 2,330 meters from the center of an expansive plain, Mount Bromo’s barren landscape makes it look like it’s from another planet, and it consistently ranks as one of Indonesia’s most beautiful nature spots.

It’s possible to hike and spend a night camping here, marveling at the starry sky, or you can book your accommodation at Cemoro Lawang village just a stone’s throw away.

You might have to brave the crowds to find your sunrise spot, but you’ll be rewarded with a surreal scene of Mount Bromo emerging from a sea of clouds, smoke slowly rising from its active volcanic crater.

Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a small town fronting the Mekong River that blends French colonial architecture and ancient Buddhist temples.

More than just a heritage destination, Luang Prabang also offers easy access to nearby nature spots, such as the three-tiered Kuang Si or Tad Sae with its beautiful limestone formations.

If you don’t want to venture out of town, you can put your climbing skills to the test with the 100 meter-high Mount Phousi, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of Luang Prabang’s surroundings.

Banaue, the Philippines

Located at the foot of the Cordillera mountain range, the Banaue Rice Terraces that adorn the terrain boast postcard-perfect beauty.

It’s no wonder that the terraces were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.

It’s mind-blowing to think that this vast network of rice terraces, sustained by an elaborate irrigation system, was created more than 2,000 years ago by the Ifugao people using only the most straightforward tools.

Kaeng Krachan, Thailand

The Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex is Thailand’s latest UNESCO World Heritage list.

Rich in biodiversity, the lush forest complex teems with wildlife, including endangered species such as the Siamese crocodile, dhole, and Asian elephant.

Out of the four official parks within the complex, three are open to the public.

Day-trippers can hike to several waterfalls or explore the many limestone caves within the parks. There’s also the option of pitching your tent at one of the camping spots to soak in the great outdoors.

BEST FOR URBAN EXPLORERS

Bangkok, Thailand

The Thai capital needs no introduction. This bustling city is always exciting with its fascinating blend of old and new.

From ancient temples to rooftop bars, Bangkok has something to offer everyone. Visitors can explore hidden treasures seemingly on every corner, including trendy neighborhoods like Charoenkrung.

Parallel to the Chao Phraya river, Charoenkrung is a hipster haunt where chic bars and cozy cafes abound amid old shophouses and Neoclassical European architecture. This is also where you can get your art fixed at the many excellent galleries that dot the neighborhood.

Kampong Glam, Singapore

After signing the 1819 treaty with Stamford Raffles that led to the founding of modern Singapore, Sultan Hussein Shah of Johor was allocated a plot of land in Kampong Glam, an area Raffles had set aside for the Malays, Arabs, and Bugis in his 1822 town plan.

Fast forward to today, Kampong Glam and its mural-covered streets have been transformed into a buzzing neighborhood with ample shopping opportunities, round-the-clock food, and fashionable watering holes.

Here, one can find excellent cafes, modern bars, and cultural spots like Sultan Mosque and the Malay Heritage Centre, housed in Istana Kampong Glam, once the royal seat of the Malay sultans in Singapore.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Tucked within Phnom Penh’s must-visit Royal Palace, temples, and museums in the bustling Phsar Toul Tom Poung, known among locals as the Russian Market due to its popularity with Russian ex-pats up until the 1980s.

But the historic Market, which first welcomed visitors in 1937, is not the only draw here, as the neighborhood has experienced gentrification over the past decade.

Now a lively area to visit after dark, the quaint, narrow lanes are dotted with trendy cafes and rooftop bars that cater to the city’s burgeoning ex-pat community.

Bandung, Indonesia

Bandung is proud of its architectural legacy from the Dutch colonial era, especially since the city is home to the best tropical Art Deco design examples from the 1920s and 1930s.

But as part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, Bandung’s artists are the real gem.

Several art galleries up in the hills like Selasar Sunaryo and Lawangwangi Creative Space allow visitors to appreciate the creative flair of local artists while sipping a cuppa and enjoying the view.

BEST FOR HISTORY BUFFS

Bagan, Myanmar

Bagan is not known as the “Land of Ten Thousand Temples” for nothing. Its 104-square kilometer area is home to around 2,200 Buddhist temples, regarded by Venetian explorer Marco Polo as “one of the finest sights in the world.”

There’s an endless list of temples to choose from, the most famous being Ananda, Shwesandaw, Thatbyinnyu Sulamani, and Dhammayangyi, an imposing 55-meter pyramidal structure.

Taking a cruise down the Irrawaddy River is also a good idea if you want a different view of the array of temples that stretch into the horizon, with side excursions to villages, markets, and other historic sites.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Out of all the independent countries globally, Cambodia is the only one that features a building on its flag.

This is Angkor Wat; a massive temple built initially in the first half of the 12th century. It’s an awe-inspiring sight, with its five towers that rise 65 meters into the air.

Although it’s just one of the hundreds of temples and structures within the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Wat is the most outstanding due to the incredible feats of engineering undertaken to complete the massive project.

Borobudur, Indonesia

Borobudur, built in the 8th and 9th centuries, is the largest Buddhist monument in the world.

Visitors to this extensive temple complex will appreciate an overwhelming number of bas-reliefs depicting the life of the Buddha. Seen from above, the monument is laid out in the form of a mandala.

Although it’s a popular tourist attraction, it’s still a pilgrimage site for Buddhists, for whom climbing up the temple’s various levels symbolizes the attainment of nirvana.

Vigan, the Philippines

With its cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages, Vigan is like taking a step into a different era.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is a prime example of a well-preserved Spanish colonial town. Lined with ancestral homes from the era, Vigan is proof that the Philippines is not just about the beaches and the volcanoes.

If you still want to check out the seaside, Mindoro Beach is only 15 minutes from Vigan and an excellent place to watch the sunset.

BEST FOR BEACH BUMS

Koh Tao, Thailand

Smaller than Koh Phangan and Koh Samui, Koh Tao is more suited to backpackers than Prada-toting vacationers.

With its turquoise waters and lush jungles, there’s much to love about this tiny island in the Gulf of Thailand.

With over 20 dive sites nearby, it’s no wonder Koh Tao certifies more divers than anywhere else in the world. Visitors can also head to the island’s more laid-back south to explore fishing villages and restaurants on stilts over the water.

Lombok, Indonesia

Located next to Bali, Lombok often plays second fiddle to its far more famous neighbor.

Even when visitors from Bali venture over, it’s limited to the three famous Gili islands of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, located northwest of mainland Lombok.

It’s a shame as Lombok is blessed with uncrowded beaches, world-class surf breaks, refreshing waterfalls, and the majestic Mount Rinjani.

Palawan, the Philippines

Palawan regularly features on lists of the world’s most beautiful islands and was named the best island in the world in a 2020 survey by Travel + Leisure.

Anyone who’s been to this paradise of pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and colorful reefs will gladly confirm this sentiment.

But more than just a vacation spot, Palawan is also home to impressive biodiversity both on land and sea, with dolphins in the waters, sea turtles nesting on its beaches, and hundreds of species of butterflies.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Phu Quoc is an island that has it all, from idyllic beaches to lush forests. It’s no wonder that it’s Vietnam’s top island destination.

It’s also a convenient destination that caters to everyone from couples to families looking for a relaxing beach holiday without too much hassle.

Children will be pleased with attractions such as the water park, while couples can enjoy snorkeling trips and romantic sunsets. There are also pearl farms and fish sauce producers that are especially popular with locals.

BEST FOR CULTURE VULTURES

Ubud, Indonesia

Perched in the highlands of Bali, Ubud has always attracted yogis and well-being practitioners even before Eat, Pray, Love became a global sensation.

A popular destination for those who want to get away from the island’s more touristy southern coastal areas, this laid-back town is a place to enjoy verdant rice terraces and forests.

Ubud is also Bali’s art and culture capital. It is home to the Ubud Royal Palace, temples like Pura Saraswati, and other attractions like the stone-carved cave of Goa Gajah and Tirta Empul water temple. A mere 10 kilometers away is Batuan, famed for its iconic artwork and handicraft.

Hue, Vietnam

Hue is a UNESCO World Heritage Site best known for royal mausoleums, ancient pagodas, and the Imperial City, which occupies the north side of the Perfume River.

But unbeknownst to many, the last imperial capital of Vietnam holds other precious gems outside of the Imperial City.

There’s also a collection of temples, tombs, French buildings, and garden houses connected to the old royal court, some of which have been left untouched by mass tourism and are waiting to be explored.

Mukah, Malaysia

If you’re looking to explore Sarawak’s best-hidden gems, look no further than Mukah, the cultural heartland of the Melanau people.

The best time to visit is during the Pesta Kaul; a festival held to appease the spirits of the sea, which can be observed at the water village of Kampung Telian near the Mukah River estuary.

Other attractions include the Chinese Tua Pek Kong Temple, St Bernard’s Church, and Setia Raja Mosque, dome-shaped like a terendak, a Melanau traditional hat.

BEST FOR FOODIES

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Mention Thai food, and most people will think of dishes like tom yum, pad Thai, and green curry, which are popular in central Thailand.

But Chiang Mai is famous for its northern Thai cuisine, which bears influences from neighboring countries like Laos, Myanmar, China, and local ethnic minorities.

Locals prefer some bitterness in their food, which usually comes from raw bile. Due to its location in the highlands, meat and not seafood is the star in Chiang Mai. There’s much to try here, from khao soi (curry noodle soup) to sai ua (spiced sausage).

Singapore

Due to its strategic location at the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore is a melting pot of diverse cultures.

This has resulted in an abundance of delicious food melded together from various influences, including Chinese, Malay, Indian and European.

And while the affluent city-state has no shortage of Michelin-starred fine dining spots, its hawker centers – recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO – are where local cuisine comes to the fore.

Hanoi

Like other regions of Vietnam, the north is known for its particular cuisine, characterized by strong French and Chinese influences that result in hearty yet straightforward flavors.

The best place to savor all that the north has to offer is the capital of Hanoi, known among locals as a food mecca.

Foodies can follow the footsteps of the late chef and TV host Anthony Bourdain, who savored the city’s bun cha (grilled pork with rice vermicelli), Banh Cuon (steamed rice rolls), and bun oc (snail noodle soup), washing it all down with bia hoi or local draught beer.

Its beautiful beaches, in particular, have long been a draw for travelers looking for their slice of paradise.

Whether you prefer to hang loose in Kuta or sink your toes in the fashionable sands of Seminyak, you’ll find a beach that is perfect just for you on the Island of the Gods.

Nusa Dua Beach

Developed as Bali’s premier resort destination in the 1970s, Nusa Dua is predominantly an enclave of 5-star hotels.

Don’t let this put you off, though. Thanks to the luxury hotels in the area, Nusa Dua Beach is impeccably clean.

The pristine beach, combined with calm waters, makes Nusa Dua Beach a wonderful playground for families with young children.

Just like at Sanur, you’ll find a beachfront promenade that hugs the beach and plenty of dining options for the entire family to indulge in.

And there’s entertainment, too. A top pick at Bali Nusa Dua Theatre is Devdan, a spectacular stage performance that showcases Indonesia’s cultural diversity through acrobatic dance routines.

Amed Beach

The volcanic sands of this black beauty may not be your typical picnic spot, but it’s the base for some of the best dive sites on Bali’s eastern coast.

Hop on a jukung or wooden outrigger canoe and explore the rich underwater world teeming with marine life.

The waters off Amed Beach are great for macro and muck diving and, if you’re lucky, you may be able to spot rare marine species like the ghost pipefish, pygmy seahorse, and mimic octopus.

A must-see is a Japanese Shipwreck, the ruins of a rusting sunken vessel that is now a coral garden teeming with life – a paradise for divers and snorkellers.

Sanur Beach

This 5-kilometer stretch in Bali’s southeast still feels a little like the sleepy fishing village it once was, despite the addition of big-name hotels lining its beachfront.

Adding to the cozy vibe of Sanur Beach is its leafy coastal promenade that curves past hotels, restaurants, and little boutiques, great for romantic strolls or to poke into holes-in-the-wall for beer and bargains.

Art fans will be delighted to know that Sanur has long captured the imagination of artists, including Belgian painter Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur de Merpres, whose former home is now the nearby Museum Le Mayeur.

Famed for its breathtaking sunrises, Sanur is also the jumping-off point to the incredibly scenic Nusa Penida, an island rife with mystique and dotted with spellbinding beaches.

Jimbaran Beach

Facing the Bali Strait on the island’s isthmus, Jimbaran Bay is a sweeping curve from the south of Ngurah Rai International Airport to Bukit Peninsula, Garuda Wisnu Kencana, one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic statues.

Close to fishing villages, the 3-kilometer long Jimbaran Beach is where you can savor fresh catch for your dinner, served up at the many barbeque restaurants along the beach.

Tables are set out on the beach every evening, so all you have to do is pick a restaurant, order your seafood of choice, sink your feet into the sand and enjoy the glorious sunset.

And if you love plane spotting, this is a great place to do it while you indulge in a sumptuous grilled seafood spread.

There’s also plenty of accommodation close by, including the gorgeous Kayumanis Jimbaran Private Estate & Spa, which foodies should have on their list.

Padang Padang Beach

This sandy cove was pretty much a local secret until its alluring beauty was captured on film in the Hollywood blockbuster Eat, Pray, Love.

The cliffs and rock formations of Padang Padang Beach were the backdrops for a particularly tear-jerking scene in the movie where Julia Roberts’s Liz parts ways with Felipe, played by Javier Bardem.

While the beach attracts movie fans on the location trail, Padang Padang is a favorite spot for worldwide surfers.

Known for long, hollow, and steep waves that break over a shallow reef, this surf spot promises plenty of barrelling fun.

The beach is also close to Pura Luhur Uluwatu, one of Bali’s most spiritual sites and the venue of a nightly Kecak performance.

Kuta Beach

Owing to Kuta’s popularity on the backpacker trail, this beach in Bali’s southwest is possibly the island’s most famous stretch.

Close to myriad shopping, dining, and entertainment options, the Kuta strip can get pretty busy, but its strategic location is a big plus.

After a round of shopping, park yourself in a chair on the beach, order a frosty Bintang beer from a seaside peddler and watch the sun go down – it doesn’t get any more authentic than that.

Kuta Beach is also where you can indulge in all manner of watersports, from banana boating to parasailing.

Seminyak Beach

Just north of the hubbub of Kuta is upscale Seminyak, home to a sandy sweep dotted with beach bars and classy restaurants.

Seminyak Beach also boasts gorgeous sunsets, which you can catch with a sundowner in hand at some of Bali’s top beachfront venues, like KU DE TA, WOOBAR at W Bali-Seminyak, and Potato Head Beach Club.

Be sure to bring your A-game to the beach, though – this is the place to see and be seen.

It’s also handy that Pura Petitenget, a centuries-old red brick and sandstone temple, is close by should you find yourself in need of a little morning-after soul cleansing.

Echo Beach

This black sand beach may not be the prettiest, but if you’re a surfer, this is where you want to be.

Located in laidback Canggu – home to several beaches and picturesque rice fields – Echo Beach is one of the island’s top surfing spots.

Featuring lefties, waves that break from right to left, and a rocky reef, this beach is a favorite with intermediate and advanced level surfers who love a challenge.

It’s a good thing, too, that there are several surf schools in the area to help you improve your technique so you can ride the waves like a pro.

The best time to surf is from May to September during the dry season but anytime’s excellent to take in the stunning seascape.

And while its beaches are a huge draw with holidaymakers, Phuket is also home to lush national parks, colourful markets and vibrant nightlife.

For a taste of culture and history, a spin around Phuket Old Town – where you’ll find heritage mansions turned restaurants and hotels – is a must.

With so much to offer, the possibilities for fun and adventure on this island are endless.

Bliss out at the beach

In Phuket, there are plenty of sandy, palm-shaded stretches to suit every type of beach bum, starting with Patong Beach, a bustling beach town famous for its heaving nightspots.

If you’re looking for more family-friendly fun, the 5-kilometre long Karon Beach is great for activities like beach volleyball, kayaking and parasailing.

Neighbouring Kata Beach and its tinier twin, Kata Noi – reputed to be one of the gorgeous stretches of sand on the island – are equally lovely for a day with the family.

If secluded bliss is what you’re looking for, Banana Rock Beach – a tiny cove flanked by towering palm trees – on the island’s northwestern coast has your name on it.

A few minutes south of Patong is the picturesque Freedom Beach, a 300-metre sandy crescent sheltered by jungle-clad hills. This hidden beach is only accessible via long-tail boat between December and June.

Find your Zen

Phuket is home to some of Thailand’s most stunning Buddhist monuments and temples in serene settings that inspire spirituality.

The most famous of these is The Big Buddha, a majestic, 45-metre tall seated Buddha statue perched atop Nakkerd Hill.

With its white jade marble exterior, the statue – visible anywhere in southern Phuket – is a sight to behold, especially when the Buddha’s face sparkles in the sunshine.

Another oasis of calm is Wat Chalong, a temple complex famed for its 60-metre tall stupa, which is said to house a fragment of the Buddha’s bone.

Make merit the Thai way by offering lotus flowers, lighting joss sticks, or setting off firecrackers if a wish has been granted.

Walk down memory lane

Phuket prospered from the tin mining boom of the 19th century, and Old Town is a stunning architectural testament to the era’s wealth.

In the heart of Old Town is Soi Romanee, a quiet street of century-old Sino-Portuguese shophouses – once home to brothels and opium dens – which now house cool cafes, bars and guesthouses.

A little farther afield at the edge of Old Town is where you’ll discover sprawling Sino-Colonial heritage properties, including one of Phuket’s best boutique accommodations, Little Nyonya Hotel.

You can also visit Baan Chinpracha, a two-storey Thai Peranakan mansion built-in 1903 by tin tycoon Phra Pitak Chinpracha. The Thai Peranakan, known locally as Phuket Baba, is the island’s Peranakan Chinese community, descended from Chinese immigrants and local women.

For more insight into Thai Peranakan heritage, make a stop at the museum on the mansion’s ground floor, which showcases antiques like carved teak furniture, decorative ceramics and enamel tiffins.

Take a hike

Miss the gym? Put on your sneakers and head for the hills, where you’ll be guaranteed a workout with incredible views.

Top among the trails is a 1-kilometre trek to Black Rock Viewpoint, a little-known lookout close to Nui Beach that promises stunning vistas of Promthep Cape on the island’s southern tip.

If you push on another 2.5 kilometres from there, you will reach Laem Krating, a cape with glorious sunset views.

Equally arresting and only a two-hour drive from Phuket city is the Samet Nangshe Trail, a 20-minute climb that ends at the Samet Nangshe Viewpoint overlooking the ethereal limestone crags of Phang Nga Bay.

Indulge your appetite

While Phuket’s many night markets are the best spots for quick eats like banana pancakes, barbecued seafood and deep-fried insects, there’s one style of cooking that sets the island apart from the rest of Thailand – Thai Peranakan cuisine.

The Peranakan Chinese legacy makes the cuisine a delicious medley of Chinese and southern Thai flavours.

Popular dishes include moo hong (stewed pork belly), gang moo supported (pork and pineapple curry), Khanom chin Kang poo, or fermented rice noodle balls served with yellow crab curry.

Book a table at Phuket’s best Thai Peranakan restaurants, such as The Charm Dining Gallery or One Chun Restaurant and Cafe, to savour these specialities.

Shop for souvenirs

The best deals can be found at Phuket’s many night markets for souvenirs at bargain prices.

Encompassing 30,000 square metres, Phuket Weekend Market or Talad Tai Rod is the place to score those Chang Beer T-shirts, cheap jeans, bags, perfume and even second-hand shoes.

If you prefer handcrafted gifts like soap flowers and various bric-a-brac, you’ll find them at the Walking Street Night Market that takes over Thalang Road in Old Town on Sundays.

And if you’re willing to splurge, you can’t go wrong with Thai silk scarves, linen shirts and kaftans at one of three Jim Thompson outlets on the island.

You can also purchase strings of cultured South Sea, Akoya and Mabe pearls at Phuket Pearl.

Get wet and wild

If you’re travelling with kids, you’re in luck. Phuket’s theme parks have thrilling rides that will keep children and the young at heart entertained for hours on end.

At Splash Jungle Water Park Phuket on Mai Khao Beach, thrills include the 335-metre Lazy River, the reverse freefall Boomerango water slide that culminates in a splashdown pool, and Superbowl, a spinning funnel.

Want to ride the waves like a pro? With outlets in Patong and Kata, Surf House Phuket is a surf venue that provides excellent options, including kid-friendly bodyboarding.

A must-try is the FlowRider which whips up between 240 and 480 rides per hour – don’t worry, instructors will keep an eye on the kids as they learn to take on the waves.

Museums today offer full sensory experiences for visitors, with interactive, immersive galleries that will leave you engaged and enlightened.

Whether you’re into history, art, science, or design, Singapore’s outstanding museums – some of the best in Asia – will leave you in awe.

National Museum of Singapore

If you want to delve into Lion City’s fascinating history, then the National Museum of Singapore should be at the top of your list.

Founded in 1887 as the Raffles Library and Museum, this museum, now housed in a stately neoclassical building, spans 18,400 square meters and boasts six cutting-edge galleries.

A popular draw is the Singapore History Gallery, where visitors are taken on an immersive journey through the nation’s history, starting from the 14th century.

There’s also the Story of the Forest, a mesmerizing installation that transforms the natural history drawings of Singapore’s first British resident William Farquhar into 3D animations.

The Living Galleries, which feature everything from Singapore’s fashion and film through the eras, are equally as fun.

But don’t leave without visiting the Moving Memories. This section lets you experience old Singapore sights, sounds, and scents through animated life-size murals, digital projections, and real-life soundscapes.

ArtScience Museum

Set within the integrated resort of Marina Bay Sands, the ArtScience Museum, a modern structure that mimics a welcoming hand, is one of Singapore’s most iconic architectural wonders.

Its exterior is as impressive as its interior, which features three stories of installations that inspire imagination by merging art, science, culture, and technology.

There are 21 galleries with touring exhibits from museums worldwide, but Future World is the museum’s only permanent exhibit – and one you shouldn’t skip.

This section is a collaborative installation with award-winning Japanese art collective teamLab; this section is filled with whimsical digital art and engaging, interactive installations, perfect for kids and grown-ups alike.

There’s plenty to see and do, from navigating your way through the trippy Crystal Universe that sparkles with 170,000 LED lights to areas where visitors’ drawings are digitally rendered onto large screens.

Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum

The Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum officially opened in 2015, but its collection dates 1878.

Today, the museum – housed in a seven-story green building on the National University of Singapore grounds – has amassed over a million specimens of flora and fauna from across Southeast Asia, with more than 2,000 specimens on display.

With 15 zones dedicated to Mother Earth’s many life forms, you won’t run out of things to marvel at.

Feast your eyes on the 10.6-meter sperm whale that washed ashore Jurong Island in 2015, the leatherback turtle found in Singapore 138 years ago, or the big highlight – three dinosaur fossils from Wyoming, USA.

The museum’s beautifully landscaped phylogenetic gardens, furnished with all kinds of native plants, are also worth visiting.

Asian Civilisations Museum

The first and only museum in the region dedicated to Asia’s rich cultural diversity, the Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM), sits in the former Empress Place Building, a 154-year-old neoclassical beauty.

The collection spans three levels which you can explore with daily guided tours or if you like going solo, audio tours.

The first level is devoted to Asia’s long trade history, from treasures discovered in a Tang dynasty Chinese shipwreck to relics of furniture and decorative arts from centuries-old maritime routes.

If you want to get acquainted with the roots of the region’s myriad faiths, rituals, and a host of beautiful religious sculptures, level two is the go-to.

However, one of the museum’s best collections is the newly minted space on the third floor. Opened in 2020, it features three galleries dedicated to decorative arts such as ceramics and jewelry and the centuries-old evolution of fashion and textiles in Asia.

Singapore Art Museum

The Singapore Art Museum (SAM), the country’s very first museum of its kind, is home to some of the most celebrated contemporary artworks in Southeast Asia and Asia.

The primary wing, opened in 1996, is housed in the beautifully restored former St Joseph’s Institution, a European Renaissance-style building constructed in 1867.

There’s a spectrum of art forms from across the region lined up here, from photography and paintings to sound and light installations, videos, and sculptures.

In 2015, the 86-year-old Catholic High School across the road was converted into SAM at 8Q, a fantastic art gallery and incubator space dedicated to the work of up-and-coming young artists.

NUS Museum

The NUS Museum has an astounding collection of over 8,000 artifacts and artworks divided into four galleries, three of which are located on the National University of Singapore grounds.

Check out the Ng Eng Teng Collection – 1,200 sculptures, sketches, and paintings by this celebrated Singaporean artist – and the Lee Kong Chian Collection, featuring ancient Chinese pottery, jade, and classical ink paintings.

The South and Southeast Asian Collection includes some contemporary works but mainly draws on the ancient aspects of Indian scriptures from the 9th century and textiles and ceramics from 18th century Singapore and Malaya.

To appreciate the museum’s fourth gallery – the incredible Straits Chinese Collection – make your way to the NUS Baba House on Neil Road, where the artifacts are showcased in a real-life Peranakan Chinese home.

Science Centre Singapore

The Science Centre Singapore is highly engaging, enjoyable, and educational. With such a wide variety of awesome interactive activities, you’ll need a whole day to enjoy it fully.

Seven spacious halls explore the wonders of science, from physics and chemistry to Earth science and astronomy, plus expansive outdoor spaces that include a kinetic garden and an observatory.

Some standouts include Asia’s most giant mirror maze filled with a dizzying number of mirrors and hallways, Phobia Square, a journey into the science of fear, as well as Butterflies Up Close, where you can witness the winged insect’s metamorphosis.

Another must-see is the Omni Theatre – Southeast Asia’s first 8K 3D digital dome theatre – where you can enjoy an immersive, experiential tour of the galaxy.

Stop by the Curiosity Shop to snap up a couple of educational kits, science gadgets, and toys as souvenirs on your way out.

Red Dot Design Museum

Named after one of the world’s most prestigious international design awards, the Red Dot Design Museum is a haven for anyone seeking creative inspiration.

The boutique space, a sister of the Red Dot Design Museum in Essen, Germany, is the only museum in Asia.

The geometrical, glass, and steel building sits along the Waterfront Promenade in Marina Bay and features a collection of Red Dot-winning designs.

Browse through thousands of innovative, aesthetically-pleasing, whimsical, and even whacky creations that range from sleek furniture and book lamps to 3D-printed backpacks and funky paperweights.

You can also get yourself some excellent, locally designed products at the Design Museum Shop, or sip coffee and enjoy local desserts at the museum’s cafe bar, furnished entirely with Red Dot award-winning pieces.

Temporarily closed until 8 April 2022.