#southeastasia

#summervacay Southeast Asia's summer truly never stops, and my recent trip to Lombok's Kuta (which seems to show up as "Koeta" on Google Maps) was a perfect example! I originally planned for just one day, but I loved it so much that I extended my stay by another day and a half, which caused a bit of a scramble with accommodation (as I mentioned in a previous post). Kuta Lombok is a very typical Western tourist hub, Southeast Asian style. The streets are full of sun-kissed European and American young people, either surfing or diving, alongside older European and American couples simply relaxing at their resorts. You'll find relatively fewer Asian tourists here. Prices are about 2-3 times higher than typical Indonesian local rates, set to a "Western standard." This means you'll find everything from Japanese to Italian restaurants, professional diving gear, surfboards, and more. What to Do: There are tons of shops eager to offer surfing and diving lessons or tours. If you're interested, it's worth shopping around and comparing prices to get the best deal. Beaches: My Top Recommendations! Kuta Beach (Not Recommended): I don't recommend Kuta Beach itself. I found the sand to be quite dirty, and there were too many boats. Mawun Beach & Tanjung Aan Beach (Highly Recommended!): These are absolute gems! They're less crowded, the water is incredibly clean, and they're perfect for swimming. The sea is so exceptionally blue – it truly feels like paradise, I absolutely loved them! #Lombok #KutaLombok #Indonesia #SoutheastAsia

#summervacay I genuinely fell in love with Vietnam in mid-to-late May. The mornings and evenings offered a pleasant coolness, while the days were mildly warm. The air felt fresh, and the occasional light rain only added to the serene and quiet atmosphere. My Stay at Ana Mandara Villas Dalat Resort & Spa I chose to stay at Ana Mandara Villas Dalat Resort & Spa, which turned out to be a fantastic choice for a relaxing trip. Getting to Da Lat: A Bit of a Journey Getting to Da Lat can be a little inconvenient. The quickest and most time-efficient way I found was to arrange a private car transfer directly from Nha Trang Airport. A round trip cost about 1,000 RMB, with each one-way journey taking around 3.5 hours. Da Lat: Perfect for a Relaxed Stay Da Lat itself is quite small, and there aren't a huge number of major attractions. However, visiting during this particular season (mid-to-late May) is absolutely ideal for a "lie flat" and relaxed holiday. Plus, it's the season for hydrangeas and daisies to bloom, making the scenery even more beautiful! I'd recommend having a bit more time and combining Da Lat with a visit to Hoi An if you can, to make the most of your trip to Vietnam. #DaLat #VietnamTravel #AnaMandaraVillas #NhaTrang #TravelVietnam #HiddenGem #ResortLife #RelaxingVacation #FlowerSeason #HoiAn #SoutheastAsia #SlowTravel #MayTravel #DalatHotels #MyTravels

#summervacay Continuing my Vietnam journey, I want to share my experience at another incredible hotel, widely regarded as Southeast Asia's most beautiful Aman property: Amanoi. After two nights at Zannier, we headed to Amanoi. Both hotels aren't strictly within Quy Nhon or Nha Trang but are nestled in the mountains close to these cities. Amanoi, in particular, is located within a national park. Before arriving, you need to communicate your arrival time and license plate number with the hotel, as non-guests aren't permitted into the resort grounds. This strict policy certainly enhances the sense of privacy for guests, which is a big plus! The Amanoi property is vast, so getting around requires calling for a buggy, which the staff promptly provides. I'd describe Amanoi as a standard of excellence in luxury hotels, both in its elegant design and impeccable service. While it might lack some of the unique character or "soul" that Zannier offered, it makes up for it with its consistent high standards. Our room faced the beautiful pavilion shown in Photo 6, which is part of the SPA area. We started our mornings there with a yoga class, and I later indulged in a facial treatment, which was perfectly fine and followed a standard Western procedure. One of the most memorable highlights was a private hiking excursion we arranged with the hotel. A dedicated guide led us on an hour-long trek, providing a wonderful opportunity to explore the surrounding nature. If you're seeking a consistently excellent and private luxury experience amidst stunning natural beauty, Amanoi is an exceptional choice. #Amanoi #NhaTrang #Vietnam #LuxuryHotel #AmanResorts #TravelVietnam #SoutheastAsia #HiddenGem #ResortLife #SpaRetreat #PrivateEscape #NatureLover #LuxuryTravel 🇻🇳✨

#summervacay Day two of my Laos tour led me from the serene rice field cafes straight to the breathtaking Kuang Si Falls This hidden gem, often dubbed "Southeast Asia's Mini Jiuzhaigou," truly lives up to its name. The falls are a mesmerizing cascade of milky-blue travertine pools, layering one after another as the water tumbles down. It's an incredibly picturesque sight! Kuang Si Falls is actually made up of multiple tiers of waterfalls. Locals believe the water here, rich in minerals, possesses magical healing properties, earning it the affectionate nickname "Fairy Bathing Pool." It's easy to see why – the vibrant turquoise water invites you to take a refreshing dip. If you're in Laos, Kuang Si Falls is an absolute must-visit for its stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere! #Laos #KuangSiFalls #SoutheastAsia #Waterfall #TravelLaos #HiddenGem #NatureLover #LuangPrabang #MiniJiuzhaigou 🇱🇦✨

#summervacay When it comes to Indonesian islands, many might be more familiar with Bali and Komodo, but very few know about the stunning archipelago of Karimunjawa, located near Semarang. This hidden gem is absolutely worth discovering! Karimunjawa offers a truly authentic Indonesian island experience, boasting pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, all without the overwhelming crowds often found in more famous destinations. It's an ideal spot for those looking to explore untouched natural beauty, dive into diverse coral reefs, or simply relax in a serene, peaceful environment. If you're seeking an Indonesian island adventure that feels off the beaten path, Karimunjawa is a fantastic choice that promises an equally (if not more) rewarding experience! #Karimunjawa #Indonesia #HiddenGem #IslandLife #TravelIndonesia #OffTheBeatenPath #BeachParadise #CrystalClearWater #MarineLife #ExploreIndonesia #SoutheastAsia

Ha Long Bay is not just beautiful but has a long history. Our tour guide told us all about the history between the shapes of the islands and folklore of dragons. Check it out for yourself #halongbay #halongbaycruise #hanoi #vietnam#historicallandmarks #worldheritage #island #southeastasia

Skip Tanah Lot Temple unless you love crowds, overpriced tickets (75K/person), and souvenir stalls blocking your path. The iconic temple? **Hidden by vegetation**—only visible from a distance, and **tourists can’t even enter** (locals only). After 10 days in Bali, I realized most temples are forbidden to foreigners but still charge steep fees to enter the surrounding area. For a remote location with terrible traffic near Canggu, it’s **not worth the hassle**. Save your time and money! #Bali #TanahLot #TouristTrap #BaliTemples #TravelTips #SoutheastAsia

Have dinner or supper at the Chulalongkorn University area transformed into a Thai street food filled with local favorites and affordable Michelin eats. This is my first time hanging out at the popular Chulalongkorn University food street and the nearby night market…super love the vibes❤️ #travel #bangkok #bangkokfoodscene #hello_thailand #chulalongkornfood #southeastasia

#cityplaybook Hoi An Hoi An is a beautiful old town in Vietnam. It was a trading hub. It has become tourism town now. Must visit place : 1️⃣ The Street I walked around history town. I saw many building style of chinese, european and Japanese design. 2️⃣ Japanese Covered Bridge This is iconic landmark of Hoi An Old Town. It is also a great place to take picture. 3️⃣ Shop for souvernir The shops sold handicraft, clothes , bags, etc. I could saw many beautiful laterns here. It was insteresting to walk around here. Ho Chi Minh Suoi Theme Park This is a theme park based on Vietnam and Chinese style. It has many statues and unique building to take picture. It is big enough to walk around. That is my experience trip to Vietnam. I hope you like It. Follow me to find more adventure! #vietnam #trip #historicallandmarks #localguides #vietnamtrip #citydaytours #citywalk #abroad #southeastasia

#cityplaybook Singapore isn’t just a city—it’s a playground for explorers! 🚀 From futuristic skylines to lush indoor jungles, this modern oasis blends convenience and wonder. Here’s how I made the most of my day (without melting in the heat!) 🔥❄️ 🚆 Low Budget Hack: Ride the MRT! Singapore’s MRT is cheap, punctual, and connects EVERYWHERE. Skip pricey taxis—this underground train is your golden ticket! Pro tip: Use Google Maps for real-time directions. 🚇🗺️ 🌟Morning : Universal Studio 🎡 Best place for playing and taking picture is Universal Studio Singapore. It has terminator, dinasour, rollercoaster, european style palace, etc. It has fantastic landscape and attraction. 🌞 Afternoon Escape: SEA Aquarium 🐠 When the sun hits 30°C-40°C (🔥 yikes!), I fled to Sentosa’s SEA Aquarium. Cool air, mesmerising marine life, and a chance to learn about sharks, stingrays, and neon-colored fish. Perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers! 🦈💙 🌙 Evening Magic: Marina Bay Sands ✨ As the sun dipped, I raced to Marina Bay Sands. The skyline lit up like a glittering postcard! 📸✨ Snap epic photos by the infinity pool (or just admire the view). Don’t miss the light shows—pure Instagram gold! 🌃🌟 📝 Pro Tips for Your Trip: ✅ Start EARLY: Theme parks turn into saunas by noon! Hit rides in the morning. ✅ Aquarium = AC Heaven: Use it as a midday cool-down retreat. ✅ Comfy Shoes + Water: Trust me, you’ll walk a lot. 📍Highlights: Sentosa Island’s thrills 🎢 Marina Bay’s iconic skyline 🏙️ SEA Aquarium’s underwater wonderland 🌊 Singapore is a family-friendly, couple-approved, adventure-ready paradise. Ready to explore? Drop a ❤️ if you’re adding this to your bucket list! 👇 Tag someone who needs a Singapore escape! 🌍✈️ #postandearn #singaporetrip #singaporeguide #southeastasia #play #localguides #familytrip #highlyrecommended #summerholiday

Tucked away from the busy tourist routes of Luang Prabang, Wat Sop Sickharam offers a serene escape that touches the heart and soul. During my travels through Laos, I stumbled upon this modest yet deeply spiritual temple, and it quickly became one of the most memorable parts of my journey. Unlike the grander temples filled with crowds and camera flashes, Wat Sop Sickharam felt like a sacred whisper among louder voices. The peaceful ambiance was what struck me first. As I walked through the temple grounds early in the morning, the gentle rustling of trees and distant chanting of monks created an atmosphere of deep tranquility. This is a place not just to observe, but to feel. What mattered most to me was the authenticity of the experience. I watched young novice monks sweep the courtyard while older monks offered blessings and quiet smiles. The temple architecture, though less ornate than some of Luang Prabang’s more famous sites, held a timeless charm. Weathered carvings, gold-leafed details, and the smell of incense in the air reminded me that this place is not just a historical site—it is still very much alive. Best Time to Visit: If you're looking for peace and a truly immersive experience, I recommend visiting early in the morning—ideally between 6:00–7:30 AM. Not only is the weather cooler, but you may also witness the monks' morning alms ceremony, a humbling and beautiful tradition. Helpful Tip: Wat Sop Sickharam is located along Sakkaline Road, near the Mekong River. It’s easy to miss, so keep your eyes open for the understated entrance. It's walkable from most guesthouses in central Luang Prabang. Take your time here. Sit in the shade, breathe in the quiet, and let the calm of Wat Sop Sickharam settle into your spirit. #WatSopSickharam #LuangPrabang #HiddenGems #LaosTravel #MindfulTravel #TempleHopping #SoutheastAsia #CulturalJourney #MorningInLuangPrabang #TravelFromTheHeart

i would never forget being literally in the sky! 🪂Above Laos serene landscapes, my heart overflows with joy. #laos #vangvieng #paramotor #asia #blessed #travel #laostravel #SouthEastAsia

💞Reasons to Recommend: ✨Breathtaking Views – Nestled among rice paddies with stunning limestone mountains in the background! ✨Instagram-Worthy Location – Perfect for sunrise or sunset photos with unbeatable natural lighting and landscape. ✨Walkable to Town – While it feels remote and peaceful, it’s still just a short walk or bike ride to downtown Vang Vieng. ✨Dining with a View – The restaurant overlooks the fields and mountains—perfect for slow breakfasts or romantic dinners. ✨Warm Hospitality – The staff are friendly and helpful, often going above and beyond to make your stay memorable. #laos #laostravel #vangvieng #southeastasia #asiatrip #asia #restaurant #travel

Step back in time to the ancient capital of Vietnam, Ninh Bình 🏯✨ Where history, culture, and nature collide in the most stunning way #ninhbinh #vietnam #vietnamtravel #nature #southeastasia

MAMTOM 📍Shop 1-6 and 45-46, G/F, Wing On Plaza, 62 Mo Ti Road, Tsim Sha Tsui It's not easy to find good Southeast Asian cuisine in Hong Kong. When I came to Wing On in Tsim Sha Tsui, I found this one such good Southeast Asian restaurant! ✨ Malaysian Satay Mix $158 Beef, chicken, lamb satay, very plain pairing but may make you feel what is called a good Malay skewers satay. Each string will not be dry, the meat is rich, obviously made with fresh ingredients instead of factory goods ✌🏻 The tender taste is really hard not to feel, very good ❗️ ✨ Thai Beef Salad $158 It was purely a beef salad but I really thought it was done well! Pan-fried beef, green onions, tomatoes, dried onion chili with lime juice. Seemingly ordinary salad 🥗 but the beef fried three to five percent cooked, like going to a high-end Western restaurant, is unimaginable just a simple salad can be so delicate 🫶🏻 beef tender and tender, and salad sour and sweet, is refreshing and slightly spicy and not overheated ✨ Beef Rendang $168 Badong beef is delicious, mostly because the meat is soft and fragrant, but their Badong beef is not just that simple😏 It is fried with wagyu beef, plus Thai basil, chili and black sauce, the whole flavor comes out, it can really be said that even the beef is very fragrant and good 👍🏻 ✨ Bendi Belacan $68 Stir-fried okra with sambala margarine sauce is probably the most served dish, rich and delicious👅 The okra is cut into pieces, friends who don't eat okra will not be afraid, the slippery liquid inside has been fried away ✨ Durian Sticky Rice & Coconut Sundae $118 Durian glutinous rice coconut ice cream, there are two ice cream balls of durian and coconut on top, and glutinous rice underneath 🍚 The durian heavy flavor has finished eating the durian the coconut ice cream immediately lost its taste, remember to eat a coconut ice cream first ~ Before leaving, the waiter asked me which dish I thought was the best, I really couldn't choose 🤣 because really every dish is handled very well every dish has its unique flavor ☺️ Will come back to us! ◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇ #mamtom #tstfood #southeastasia #March Good Places 2025

Chef Pom Phatchara has been the rising star in Bangkok’s dining scene. Seafood is the star of the show in Thai cuisine and it is certainly so at Chef Pom Phatchara’s kitchen. Chef Pom Phatchara greeted us thirteen times with her creative dishes. As far as fine dining goes, she has delivered each of these dishes with brilliance and perfection. She was brilliant with the way that she used traditional ingredients in creative new forms. Our dishes featured an incredible array of cooking techniques that brought forth the very best of the ingredients chosen. There were endless highlights throughout the meal. For seafood only, we had multiple kinds of fish, scallops, prawns, shrimps and they were from the seas of southern Thailand or a river catch. Be it presentation, texture or flavors, Chef Pom Phatchara exhibited a keen attention to details that lies front and center in her dishes. The thoroughness in matching the ingredients, herbs, and sauces was never lost on the appreciative diner. Her food inspired intrigue – I wondered often what gave the dish its aroma and taste. In this explosive repertoire of flavors I sensed the spirit of a young chef who has dedicated an unwavering commitment to Thailand. Her food bespoke the passion for a cuisine that bears limitless potential for fusing tradition with contemporary savviness. Each morsel represented the best of Thai cuisine in one aspect or another, bearing a mark of excellence that impressed the mind beyond the immediate gratification within the palate. The dining ambience was serene and classy at Baan Phraya. A building of the early 19th century, Baan Phraya’s original owner was Phraya Mahai Savanya, a high-ranking government official. The last office that he held was the Minister of Commerce. Baan Phraya was beloved as a venue that hosted top government officials and esteemed foreign guests. Phraya Mahai Savanya’s wife Khunying Loearn Mhai Savanya would set up simple tables with the best of cuisine for her guests. Phraya Mahai Savanya would play Thai music with his band, named “Noom Noi” (it means young men), by the treelined riverscape, celebrating a good ole merry time with the dignitaries. #foodie #thaifood #finedining #thaiheritage #thailand #southeastasia #gulfofthailand #seafood #mandarinoriental #baanphraya #chaoprayariver

#favouriteitinerary THAILAND was made for this colorful trend! - This reel is making me want to return to Thailand once again! It is certainly one of my top Asian countries. ) " + How about you? Comment down your favorite Asian country! #thailand #bangkok #phuket #pattaya #travelthailand #thai #temple #travelasia #phuketist #thailandista #thailandexplore #southeastasia #asiancountry #padthai #mangostickyrice

#favouriteitinerary Life is too short to have small croissants! Here's to the biggest croissant in Malaysia! Can you believe that this one is 6X bigger than their usual croissant?! Would you like to try it? ° Blackbixon Cafe 17 Jalan Inai, Jin Imbi 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia #kualalumpur #malaysia #giantcroissant #croissant #klcafes #visitmalaysia #asia #southeastasia #coffee #blackbixoncafe #travelasia #damestravel #sheisnotlost

#favouriteitinerary Chào buối sáng, Saigon! Landed to the home of 7 million motorbikes! I'm super excited to share all the fun and excitement of my adventure here! What do you know about Vietnam? Tell me in the comments below babes! #vietnam #saigon #hochiminh #southeastasia #cuchitunnels #mekongriver #travel #asia #travelasia #asiaexplore #hanoi #hoian #ninhbinh

We touched down in Bangkok on a slightly overcast day. It was a Saturday but we were told to expect a bit of traffic from the airport to the Grand Hyatt Erawan. And true to the word, we were stuck in traffic in one end of the street for 20 minutes before making it to the other end of the street. We arrived at the dazzling world of the Erawan group as the hotel enveloped its visitors with endless Christmas charm. Christmas was maybe two weeks away, but the Buddhist country spared no effort in propping up the lavish appearances of a celebratory spirit that would appeal to visitors of the western world. The Erawan Group runs a host of businesses in hotels, resorts, restaurants, retail and office rental in Thailand. As a leader of the hospitality business in Thailand, Erawan offers the full range of hotel options for visitors, from the luxury line to the very basic budget choices. The Grand Hyatt is considered a luxury option under the Erawan Group. It does have a reputation for being haunted, however. The group of six businessmen that were murdered by poison (including the murderer’s own suicide) died in one of the villas in the Grand Hyatt in 2024. This made international news. The famous and much frequented Erawan Shrine is right next door to the Grand Hyatt Erawan. But people are naturally forgetful. When we checked in the hotel, we sensed in this festive atmosphere a business-as-usual vibe. We were not staying at the villas either, so I eagerly checked into a standard hotel room and enjoyed the comfort throughout my stay there. The hotel offers housekeeping twice a day, and everything is dong specklessly clean and perfect. I have tried four restaurants in the hotel and they were fantastic. The breakfast was scrumptious every day. #grandhyatterawan #grandhyatterawanbangkok #bangkok #hotel #hotelstay #staycation #thailand #southeastasia #luxuryhotel #staycation#familytravel

Between the 2nd to the 10th centuries, Hoi An was a bustling seaport of the Champa Kingdom. Both My Son and Hoi An within its bounds, the Quang Nam province once belonged to the Champa King. A dispute arose between the Champa kingdom and Vietnam broke out, and between the 14th and 15th centuries Hoi An was the bone of contention. Vietnam claimed that a former Champa King has granted this area to Vietnam as gift for his marrying of a Vietnamese princess. His successor refused to honor the terms, thus causing a century-long fight. Peace finally came. Beginning in the 15th century, Hoi An became an international trading port that thrived by the Thu Bon River. This encouraged the presence of the world’s trading nations in Hoi An, including the Japanese, Chinese, Dutch, Portuguese, Spanish, Indians, British, French, American and more. The Chinese and Japanese traders were particularly prominent in Hoi An. They have left a presence by the many beautiful structures that stand to this day. Ancestral halls, temples, traders’ assembly, and all kinds of infrastructures are testaments to the city’s roots as a trading port and the international character that followed. Indeed, these structures are well-preserved as the UNESCO has decreed some eight hundred historical buildings in Hoi An as protected heritage. he Thu Bon River was Hoi An’s life line. Until the late 19th century, when it silted. Hoi An’s fate thus turned upside down as the sea and river entries to trading closed. Danang then rose in its place as the preeminent trading port. #hoian #vietnam #southeastasia #hoianoldtown #ancienttown #vietnamhistory #historicallandmarks#历史古迹#世界遗产

Koh Rong Sanloem is the perfect escape for those seeking tranquility away from the party scene of Koh Rong. With its pristine beaches, untouched nature, and peaceful vibes, it feels like an undiscovered paradise. Lazy Beach and Sunset Beach are some of the most beautiful, often nearly empty, making them ideal for relaxation. Hiking between beaches offers breathtaking trails and hidden gems along the way. If you want an idyllic island experience with crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and no crowds, this is the place to be! 😍🏝 #southeastasia #goldenhour #sunset #travel #couplestrip #cambodia #beachlife #seascapes #kohrongsamleom

+ port charges will be around S$108/pax 😱🤯 📣 Last Min Cruise Sale! Only from S$108/pax incl. port fees! 2-night Southeast Asia Cruise: Melaka 🛳️ Genting Dream 📅 Sailing date Sun 16 Feb 2025 🛌 Oceanview Stateroom 🏷️ Only from S$108/person incl. port fees That’s not all - apply “RWCTRIP2025” to get S$60 OFF (min spend of $800) with any Resorts World Cruises bookings. Limited-time sale only!⏰ Hurry up! Book your spontaneous voyage now ➡️ https://sg.trip.com/cruises/line-99079/?departure=2025-02-16 #southeastasia #cruise #sale #cruisesupersale #gentingdream

Disney Adventure Season 2 sailing itineraries just release!! 📅Key Season 2 details - Sailing period：April- September 2026 - Sailing itineraries：3-Night departs Mon, 4-Night departs Thu -On-Sale date: 17 Feb, 9pm SGT ⏰Mark your calendar!!! Book the Disney Adventure with Trip.com now to enjoy a complimentary transfer to Marina Bay Cruise Center🚢 #cruise #disneyadventure #southeastasia

THE EASTER OFFENSIVE OF MARCH 1972 Quang Tri lies 57km northwest of Hue and 40km from the DMZ. After the 1954 Geneva Accords, Vietnam was divided into North Vietnam and South Vietnam. This division resulted in Quang Tri being in South Vietnam. Further northwest, Dong Ha became the northernmost town of South Vietnam, closest to the 17th parallel, which is the border between North and South Vietnam. In March 1972, the North Vietnamese army, known as PAVN (People’s Army of Vietnam), launched the Easter Offensive against the South. In this offensive the PAVN attacked and captured both Dong Ha and Quang Tri. The PAVN captured Dong Ha in late April, 1972. Quang Tri came under PAVN control by May 2, 1972. Highway 1, officially National Route 1A, runs through the major cities of Vietnam from the Huu Nghi Quan Border Gate near the China-Vietnam border. It extends all the way to the very southern tip of Ca Mau Province. The French colonists constructed this highway in the early 20th century. During the Easter Offensive of 1972, the PAVN launched serious shelling at Quang Tri in order to gain control of the city. The section of Highway 1 between Quang Tri and Hue became the only escape route for the 20,000 residents of Quang Tri. Almost the entire population attempted to flee the city. Between the few days in late April and early May, both the civilians and the ARVN military jammed this section of Highway 1, both on-foot and in vehicles, and bumper-to-bumper. The majority of the vehicles were ARVN fleets, consisting of “flatbeds, takers, small trucks, jeeps and ambulances.” When this convoy had gone 6 miles south, the PAVN attacked. Because the ARVN 3rd Division failed to organize flank security, the attack caused serious casualties to both civilians and the ARVN military. The Catholic Long Hung Church was built in 1955. Standing in ruins, it is the living testament to the horrifying few days of killing on Highway 1. People were trapped on this road and did not have any other escape routes or cover. #highwahofhorror #hue #vietnam #americanwar #vietnamwar #highway1 #southeastasia #vietnamhistory #travel#thingstodo

I went to Bao Vinh because I wanted to see a fishing village in Hue. Once upon a time, Bao Vinh was a bustling port besides having a vibrant fishing community. Its rise as a trading port originated from the Chinese merchants’ commerce in this area during the 17th century. They traded much sought-after goods: rice, salt, seafood, and fish sauce. The workmen of Bao Vinh made coffins, inlaid pearl crafts, bricks, tiles and woven handcrafts. There were 39 century-old houses from this era of prosperity, but only about 15 remain and they are in ruins. When Hue no longer served as the capital of Vietnam, Bao Vinh’s booming commerce slowly declined. Today, there are still traditional craftsmen here, as some of the old craftsmanship has been revived, such as the making of conical hats, incense, carpentry and blacksmiths. When I got there, I decided that it would serve all my purposes if I just walked through the main street. The main street that runs through this riverside community is named Bao Vinh. It was very busy. Vendors, pedestrians, bicyclists, vehicles – every bit of cacophony bespoke a vibrant community. I did not look very hard for the century-old buildings in Bao Vinh. I would rather just relax and enjoy the vibe. The colors all along its main thoroughfare came with lots of natural and man-made flavours. They were of the native fruits grown locally, of the handicrafts on sale, of the machine-made household goods. The sights were every bit aged as they were every bit youthful. #baovinh #hue #vietnam #southeastasia #fishingvillage #travel#thingstodo#familytravel

#mountainhike Is this the ultimate backpacker’s/hiker’s DREAM? Kuang Si Waterfall, which is situated very close to Luang Prabang (30 min drive) is a MARVELOUS natural gem that still enchants me. What’s so special about this place is that it features turquoise pools and flowing tiers, so it’s ideal for swimming and unwinding in a tranquil setting. And don’t get fooled by the photos, it’s not just one waterfall, but a series of many pools and waterfalls in the area! The verdant forest nearby enhances the beauty, offering a tranquil retreat from routine life 🌿. A 1-hour mountain hike takes you to the upper falls, allowing you to appreciate stunning views and the noise of flowing water. Kuang Si Waterfall is an essential spot for those who adore nature and seek adventure! 🌞 #southeastasia #adventure

#getgoing2025 Hội An is a well-preserved ancient town with vibrant French colonial architecture. Although it’s dominated by French colonial buildings, you can also find a mix of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese influences in its architecture. No wonder it’s become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s indeed a very beautiful place. This city is one of the most romantic places I’ve ever been. The city’s lantern-lit streets at night are straight out of a dream. Walking along the river, with the warm glow of the lanterns reflecting off the water, was pure magic. It’s a place where time feels slower, and you can just soak in the beauty of old town charm and the peaceful riverside. 📍 Hội An, Vietnam #vietnamtrip #hoian #ancienttown #southeastasia #travel

#getgoing2025 After a sudden downpour in Jakarta, there’s a calm that blankets the city. I remember walking along the streets as the rainwater formed little rivers on the roads, washing away the day’s chaos. The usual traffic noise seemed muted, and even the honking seemed quieter. The scent of wet earth filled the air, and the cool breeze made the bustling city feel peaceful and almost refreshing. #jakarta #travel #indonesiatrip #rain #capitalcity #southeastasia

#getgoing2025 Located at the back of Petaling Street, still in the Chinatown area, this newly revitalized place is a small alley filled with murals and shops. Inside the alley are six murals painted by local artists depicting the daily activities of early Chinese settlers in the area during the 1960s. Entrance to Kwai Chai Hong might be a little bit tricky. Do you think you can find the hidden entrance of this place? 📍Kwai Chai Hong 鬼仔巷, Kuala Lumpur #kwaichaihong #petalingstreet #chinatown #kualalumpur #malaysia #southeastasia #travel