03/27/2024
Fun facts about SE Asia before visiting this beautiful region...
- 11 Countries are included in SE Asia:
Comprised of 11 countries squeezed between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. They are Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, East Timor, Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, and Vietnam.
- The climate in SE Asia is tropical all year round:
Due to its location on and around the equator, SE Asia stays warm throughout the year, with midday temperatures of 27°C on most days. Most countries have two seasons: wet and dry.
- Great for travelling on a budget:
Compared to traveling in Europe or North America, SE Asia is extremely cheap for travel. You can live on an average daily budget of about $60–70/day for two people (about $45–60/day for solo travelers).
- There are over 20,000 islands in SE Asia:
SE Asia includes over 20,000 islands scattered through the Pacific and Indian oceans. Indonesia alone has over 13,500 islands!
No matter whether you are seeking islands for scuba diving, snorkeling, breathtaking beaches with luxury resorts, or amazing sunsets, you will find one.
- The land of temples:
One must-do activity when traveling around SE Asia is visiting ancient temples. Blessed with a deep history and unique culture, this region is home to some of the most impressive temples in the world. There are about 35,000 temples in Thailand alone.
You should not miss the world's largest religious monument, Angkor Wat, in Cambodia.
- SE Asia is extremely diverse in religion:
Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam are generally Buddhist countries while Indonesia and Brunei are mostly Muslim countries.
The Philippines and East Timor are two predominantly Catholic countries.
- SE Asia is a perfect region for coffee lovers:
Coffee has been grown and consumed in SE Asia since the late 17th century. You can taste a different type of coffee in each country in the region.
Laos is said to be home to the best coffee in SE Asia. In fact, coffee is its biggest export.
- Vietnam is the country of motorbikes:
When you visit Vietnam, you will find that the roads are filled with motorbikes.
There are more than 50 million registered motorbikes in the country, which means that almost half of the population owns one... they're everywhere!
- Most countries in SE Asia have relaxed visa policies:
Visa requirements differ for every country depending on where you're from. Generally, it is not a problem to get a visa. Most countries in SE Asia allow fairly easy visa-free entry, or a visa upon arrival, for stays ranging from 2 weeks to 3 months.
- No McD's in Cambodia:
Cambodia is one of the few countries in the world where McDonald’s hasn’t laid down roots. Until now, there are many well-known fast food chains in Cambodia including KFC, Burger King, Pizza Hut, but no golden arches.
