Tag: South East Asia

Food & Drink

Thailand’s Culinary Scene Reaches New Heights with Its First-Ever Three MICHELIN Star Restaurant

The MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2025 unveils a record-breaking restaurant selection, highlighting Thailand’s rich and diverse gastronomic landscape with its first Three MICHELIN Star recipient. Thailand’s food scene has officially claimed its place on the global stage. For the first time ever, a Thai restaurant has been awarded the prestigious Three MICHELIN Stars, marking a historic

January 11, 2025

a cruise boat sails along the Mekong River in Laos

Tours

Cruising the Mekong at Sunset: My Magical Evening on the Senglao Boat in Luang Prabang

Experience the charm of Luang Prabang from the water with a sunset cruise on the Senglao boat—where culture, nature, and tradition blend into an unforgettable journey along the Mekong River. There are moments in travel that stay with you forever—and my sunset cruise along the Mekong River in Luang Prabang was one of those moments.

January 11, 2025

Image shows an illustration of the forthcoming Amari Bangsean hotel

Accommodation

Amari The Tide Bangsaen: A New Chapter in Thai Coastal Hospitality

Tucked along the golden sands of Bangsaen Beach in Chonburi Province, Thailand, a new chapter in luxury coastal hospitality is about to unfold. The much-anticipated Amari The Tide Bangsaen is set to make its grand debut in the second quarter of 2025, promising a fresh vision for beachfront getaways while capturing the vibrancy and charm

January 8, 2025

image shows the welcome sign of Weekend Cafe and Camping in Laos

Accommodation

Discovering the Heart of Lao Coffee Culture: A Journey to the Bolaven Plateau

There’s something magical about waking up on the Bolaven Plateau in southern Laos. The air is crisp, the mist rolls gently over the hills, and the scent of freshly roasted coffee beans lingers in the breeze. For anyone who loves coffee—or simply wants to see where some of the world’s finest beans are grown—this highland

January 8, 2025

Image shows a large golden reclining Buddha on a grassy bank in Laos

Travel Tips

Laos Visa Policy Changes: What Travelers Need to Know for 2025

As Visit Laos Year 2024 comes to a close, Laos has officially ended the special visa exemption and extended stay policies introduced to boost tourism. Starting 1 January 2025, tourists must follow the pre-2024 visa regulations when entering the country. Whether you’re dreaming of exploring the serene temples of Luang Prabang, cruising along the Mekong

January 8, 2025

a wide covered wooden boat travels along a lake with floating houses in the background

Eco-tourism

Phat Sanday Ecotourism Community: Cambodia’s Hidden Gem on Tonle Sap Lake

Tucked away in Cambodia’s Kampong Thom Province, Phat Sanday Ecotourism Community is quietly rewriting the narrative of what this region has to offer travellers. Once just a stopover on the way to more established destinations, this lakeside haven is emerging as a must-visit for eco-conscious travellers seeking an authentic Cambodian experience. Spread across 23,000 hectares

January 8, 2025

Nam Phou fountain in central Vientiane, at night being lit up by dazzling coloured spotlights

Tours

Exploring Vientiane’s Heritage Route: My Journey through Laos’ Cultural Capital

The capital’s new heritage route opens up 59 historical buildings and transformed my exploration of Vientiane I had travelled to Vientiane a few times in the past, usually immersing myself in the city’s gentle pace and serene Buddhist temples. However, when I arrived this time, I was lucky to coincide with the launch of the

December 24, 2024

the Angkor Wat temple with trees on a green lawn in the foreground

Travel Tips

Navigating Angkor Wat with Ease: How the New Self-Service Ticketing Machine Simplifies Your Trip

Embrace these tips as part of your journey—less time spent on logistics means more time to appreciate Angkor Wat’s timeless beauty. With just a bit of planning and awareness, you’ll be stepping into ancient temples sooner, fully present and ready to make the most of your Cambodian adventure. I’ve always found Angkor Wat mesmerising—not just

December 19, 2024

Image shows typical immigration paperwork laid over a made of the world

Travel Tips

Thailand’s New E-Visa System: A Game-Changer for Global Travellers

Streamlining the visa application process to enhance travel convenience and boost tourism starting January 2025. Thailand’s new e-visa system is set to redefine the travel experience, making it more accessible and efficient for all types of travellers. Whether you’re planning the holiday of a lifetime in South East Asia, or a backpacker eager to dive

December 19, 2024

picture shows a seated bearded male playing guitar with a female on bongos while another guy look to be praying in the open air

Opinion

AU Op-ed – The Curious Case of Begpacking: Exploring Backpacker Travel in Southeast Asia

Unpacking the evolution of independent travel. The rise of begpacking in Southeast Asia underscores the evolving dynamics of independent travel. As travellers navigate the fine line between exploration and entitlement, fostering understanding and promoting sustainable practices will be key to ensuring that the region remains a welcoming and vibrant destination for all. It wasn’t long

December 16, 2024