The Independent

The best countries to travel to in Southeast Asia

Source: Getty Images

Southeast Asia is a blend of fascinating traditions and cultures, with some of the most incredible temples, palaces and natural sites on the planet.

This region is home to famed attractions, from Angkor Wat to Ha Long Bay, as well as a selection of sprawling cities – including Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore – and miles of pristine coastlines around Indonesia and the Philippines.

And though places such as Bangkok and Singapore have seen high numbers of British tourists for decades, other destinations are starting to attract more people, from lesser-known Laos to the neighbouring backpacker favourite of Cambodia.

Whether you’re looking to throw yourself into exploring a city or hop around a handful of serene tropical islands, your options are pentiful in this corner of the world.

Below are Independent Travel’s picks for the region’s best countries to visit on holiday; read on to start planning your next long-haul getaway.

Thailand

Railey beach is one of the most famous in Thailand (Getty Images)

has long been a tourist (known locally as Krung Thep) was the for several years in a row before Covid and is just a short journey away from the ancient city of .

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