Best Time to Travel to Southeast Asia
You ask, what is the best time to travel to Southeast Asia? First let’s discuss a little background about Southeast Asia. It is a part of the world that has had a troubled past but has grown significantly over the last 40-50 years. Driven in part by the relative peace these countries have faced for the past thirty years, the impact of technology making the world smaller and fueled by a high birth rate, the population and the economy is expanding rapidly. Southeast Asia is composed of eleven countries of impressive diversity in religion, culture and history: Brunei, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Timor-Leste, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
Best Time to Visit Southeast Asia
The ideal time to travel to Southeast Asia varies by which country you want to visit. Here is a summary of the best time to visit some of the most popular countries in Southeast Asia:
- Thailand: November to February
- Vietnam: November to April
- Cambodia: November to February
- Laos: November to February
- Myanmar: November to February
- Indonesia: May to September
It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before you go. Please note that these are general guidelines and weather patterns can vary from year to year. They can also vary significantly by different regions in each country. For example, when we were in Vietnam, we noticed a very significant weather differences between Northern Vietnam, Southern Vietnam, Central Vietnam, the Mekong River Region and the Mekong Delta. In addition, in Thailand you will notice very different conditions between Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand and Phuket in southern Thailand.
We definitely agree with the guidelines published above. We were in Southeast Asia in March and April of 2023. It was hot as hades in Cambodia during the first week of April and in Bangkok later in the month. Vietnam, on the other hand was still fine in both March and April.
Avoiding the Wettest Months and the Hottest Months
The monsoon season in Southeast Asia is primarily associated with the southwest monsoon. During this time, prevailing winds blow from the warm, wet equatorial seas, bringing in rains and storms.The rainy season in Southwest Asia varies by country, but it generally occurs during specific months. If you wish to avoid the rainy season or the wet season, then here are the times to definitely avoid:
- The southwest monsoon typically starts in May or June, intensifies between August and October (which coincides with the typhoon season in Vietnam and the Philippines), and then tapers off by November.
- Throughout the monsoon season, expect rain and overcast skies. Some areas experience a few days of sunshine, but continuously rainy days are common.
- In Indonesia, Malaysia, southern Philippines, and Singapore, which are closest to the equator, the climate remains uniformly humid and wet throughout the year. These countries do not have distinct dry seasons or extended cool periods.
- However, other parts of Southeast Asia feel the monsoon’s effects more significantly. For example:
- Thailand’s beach destinations like Phuket and Koh Chang face dangerous rip currents during the rainy season.
- Vietnam’s historic town of Hoi An experiences yearly flooding.
- Cambodia’s Angkor temples are at their aesthetic best during the wet season, with lush surroundings and vibrant colors.
- In the Philippines, the southwest winds impact Boracay, rendering White Beach unsafe for swimmers.
- In Myanmar the summer monsoon starts earlier in April and goes to September.
- In Malaysia, Indonesia (Bali) and Singapore the hot season is March to May and the heavy rains occur in June to October.
Remember that local variations exist, so it’s essential to check specific country forecasts when planning your travels during the monsoon season. Stay informed and pack accordingly!
Average Temperatures Ranges by Country
The average temperature ranges in Southeast Asia can vary by country, but overall, this region enjoys warm and tropical weather throughout the year. Let’s explore the temperatures in some of the countries:
Thailand
- Dry Season (November to May): Expect temperatures around 86°F (30°C) in Bangkok during this time. Northern areas like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai experience hot and sticky weather with less rainfall.
- Rainy Season (May to November): Cloudy and humid conditions prevail, but the rainfall is generally less than in southern destinations1.
Laos
Laos has a pleasant climate year-round. The temperatures stay fairly consistent, averaging around 81°F (27°C). Scorching afternoons can occasionally reach over 86°F (30°C).
Vietnam
- Northern Vietnam: The weather varies with distinct seasons. Expect temperatures between 25°C and 35°C throughout the year.
- Southern Vietnam: The climate remains warm and tropical, with average temperatures around 27°C (80°F). The rainy season typically runs from June to October.
Indonesia
Bali: Warm temperatures persist year-round, ranging from 25°C to 35°C. Coastal areas experience consistent warmth due to their proximity to the equator3.
Cambodia, Myanmar and Other SE Asian Countries.
These regions generally have warm and tropical climates, with average temperatures hovering around 27°C (80°F). Coastal areas close to the equator remain warm throughout the year.
Best Time to Travel to Southeast Asia – People and Culture
While understanding the best time to go visit Southeast Asia and to avoid as much as possible the heavy rains, we believe it is more important to have a good time by visiting the best places and meeting the friendly people of the region. Therefore, the primary purpose of this post is to discuss the culture and the people of Southeast Asia. People were friendly in all the countries we visited. It didn’t really matter when we visited. The people are much more accustomed to the heat than we were.
We have tried to show the similarities and the differences of the countries and the cities that we visited. Please visit the following posts for more specific information and pictures of the individual countries:
During our 2023 90-day tour through Asia-Pacific, we visited five of the eleven countries: Cambodia, Indonesia, Singapore (see below), Thailand and Vietnam. We also transited through Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia which we didn’t count. Also, Cos had previously visited the Philippines on a business trip in the late 1980s.
It is not easy to get to Southeast Asia. We recommend that you check out Trip Advisor and use a good travel search engine, such as WayAway to find your best options.
Best Time to Travel to and Meet the People of Southeast Asia
What impressed us the most about the region are the people. In every country we visited, the people were friendly and kind to us. In fact, there were many times they made a point to thank us for visiting which we found charming. While we were in one city in Vietnam, a group of four young ladies approached us, asking if we would mind answering a few of their questions. Clearly this was a homework assignment as the questions were well developed and written on a piece of paper. Frankly, given the role of the United States during the Vietnam war, we were not sure what the reception would be and were delighted with the warm reception. For more on this topic see our post on Vietnam.
The Hairdresser
In addition to meeting some very friendly tour guides (all were great), we were also impressed with some of the other great people we met along the way. Robin had her hair done in the Luxe Salon in Saigon, a rather brave move. She was nervous. However, we really got to know Mrs. Thuy, the lovely young woman owner who loves to play golf. She also wasn’t a bad hairdresser. Her quote, which became a highlight of the trip, was “don’t be nervous, I trained in Japan.” Here is the before and after, what do you think? Clearly, no matter what you chose as the best time to travel to Southeast Asia, Brown will be the best hairdresser color.
The Receptionist
Another wonderful person we met was the receptionist at the Sarai Hotel in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Cos was having a lot of trouble with the Cambodian currency, since he only had big bills. (We were not successful in converting US bills, with the excuse that there was a mark on the bill or a small tear). We were leaving for a trip downtown where we would take a Tuk-Tuk taxi for $2. Cos asked her if they would break down one of his larger bills since he figured the driver would not have the change. Unfortunately, she said they did not have enough smaller bills. Instead, she lent him, from her own purse, the $2 in Cambodian money to take the ride.
Best Time to Travel to Southeast Asia: Indochina
Indochina is a region in Southeast Asia that is comprised of three countries: Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. It is a region with a rich and diverse history, and each of its countries has its own unique culture. We spent most of our time here in Vietnam and Cambodia. As a result, our two favorite countries became Vietnam and Cambodia, truly enjoying the beauty of the land, the food and the people we met over the three weeks we were there. We would go back again. It’s no wonder Vietnam was Anthony Bourdain’s favorite place.
The Indochina region has been inhabited for thousands of years and is home to many ancient civilizations. Its earliest inhabitants were the Austroasiatic people, who were followed by the Mon-Khmer and the Tai-Kadai people. Over the centuries, the region was influenced by the Indian and Chinese cultures, as well as by the French and American civilizations.
Throughout its history, Indochina has been a region of great conflict. In the 19th century, the French colonized the region, and during World War II, the Japanese occupied it. The region then became a battleground during the Vietnam War, which lasted from 1954 to 1975.
Indochina Culture
Each of the countries in Indochina has its own unique culture. Vietnam is a country that is heavily influenced by Chinese culture, and its people are known for their strong work ethic and their hospitality. Laos is a landlocked country that is known for its stunning landscape and its laid-back lifestyle. Cambodia is a country with a long and turbulent history, and its people are known for their resilience and strength as well as their magnificant temples.
Indochina is a region of great beauty and diversity. Its three countries have distinct cultures and histories, and each has its own unique way of life. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil villages of Laos, Indochina is a region that is sure to captivate and inspire.
Indigenous People of Southeast Asia
As part of Cos and Robin’s study of Indigenous First Peoples in all the countries we visited, we asked this question: Despite all the different countries that have claimed the Southeast Asia Countries over the years (Japan, China, Khmer Regime, and France in Indochina, Netherlands in Indonesia, British in Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar, Portugal in Thailand and Timor-Leste, Spain in the Philippines and Brunei) how have these countries stayed independent? We’ll try to give an explanation in the Indigenous First Peoples Post. Perhaps the answer is in the next paragraph on religion, or please read each of our individual country posts ( Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Bali, Indonesia) ,
Religion in Southeast Asia
Religion has always been an integral part of Southeast Asian culture, and the region is known for its diverse religious beliefs. The most widespread religions in Southeast Asia are Buddhism, Hinduism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Islam. Each religion has its own unique characteristics and practices, and these differences have helped shape the cultural identity of Southeast Asia. We will describe the differences between these various religions and compare them with Shintoism in Japan.
Buddhism
Buddhism is the most widely practiced religion in Southeast Asia, with over 200 million adherents. It originated in India and was introduced to Southeast Asia around the 3rd century BCE. Buddhism emphasizes the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path to enlightenment. Buddhists believe in reincarnation, karma, and the concept of nirvana, which is the state of ultimate enlightenment. In Southeast Asia, Buddhism is practiced in various forms, including Theravada Buddhism in Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia, and Mahayana Buddhism in Vietnam and Indonesia.
Hinduism
Hinduism is another prominent religion in Southeast Asia, with its roots in India. It is practiced in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. It was also practiced widely in Cambodia prior to the Khmer Regime. Hinduism is characterized by its belief in multiple gods and goddesses, with the supreme being known as Brahman. Hindus also believe in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, and the concept of karma. In Southeast Asia, Hinduism is often blended with local animalist beliefs and practices.
Confucianism and Taoism
These are two Chinese religions that have also influenced Southeast Asian culture. Confucianism is based on the teachings of Confucius and emphasizes the importance of social order, respect for authority, and education. Taoism, on the other hand, focuses on the pursuit of harmony and balance in life. Both religions have had a significant impact on Southeast Asian culture, particularly in Vietnam.
Islam
Islam is also a major religion in Southeast Asia, with significant populations in Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, and the Philippines. It was introduced to the region in the 13th century and has since become an important part of the culture. Muslims in Southeast Asia practice a form of Islam that is influenced by local traditions and beliefs.
Shintoism
Unlike the countries in Southeast Asia, Japanese traditionally celebrated Shintoism before being introduced to Buddhism. As the traditional religion of Japan, Shintoism is characterized by its belief in kami, or spirits, that are present in nature. Shintoism is often blended with Buddhism in Japan, and the two religions have coexisted for centuries.
Unique Foods of Southeast Asia
The few times that Cos has been to Southeast Asia he has always been amazed by the unique foods of the region. Dragon fruit, jack fruit, and lotus flowers in particular are three of the unique foods. There are many others that we didn’t even learn their names. Mangos are widely available, and the oranges have a green skin color but are brilliant orange inside. Bananas, both regular and short size, are very plentiful. and delicious meats are also special: pigs’ ears anyone? The vegetables and herbs are always fresh and are used liberally. Lotus fruit and dragon fruit (first two pictures below) were very much available in all the countries. However, the one that really threw us were the fried spiders, in this case tarantulas. We discovered them on the road between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap and politely declined.
Major Southeast Asia Cities Comparison: Ho Chi Minh (Saigon), Hanoi, Phnom Penh, Bangkok, and Singapore
Southeast Asia is a diverse region with a rich history and culture, and its major cities reflect this diversity in different ways. Here we will explore five major cities in Southeast Asia: Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, Phnom Penh, Bangkok, and Singapore.
Best Time to Travel to Southeast Asia -Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and home to over 8.6 million people. It is the economic hub of the country and has experienced rapid growth and development in recent years. The city’s economy is driven by industries such as manufacturing, tourism, and finance. Ho Chi Minh City has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Vietnamese and French influences. The city is home to many museums and historical sites, such as the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace.
Robin and Cos made their first stop in Vietnam in Saigon. We were surprised by two things:
Okay, maybe we are overstating this situation. But clearly, Saigon is growing significantly and is the economic hub of the country. There are a few problems. One is that it is still a very corrupt place, and that will not allow the city to be truly what the people wish it to be. The other is the complete lack of a public transportation system. A subway is being developed by Japan, but it is hard to believe it will solve the cities’ critical transit challenges caused by many Vietnamese owning more than one motorbike per person. We were amazed to see entire families on one motorbike with helmets used only by one or two on the bike. Children were often sandwiched between their parents, a frightening sight.
Best Time to Travel to Southeast Asia – Hanoi
Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and the second-largest city in the country, with a population of over 7.5 million people. It is further North than Saigon, and therefore the temperature is a little more moderate. You can travel there as late as April.
The city is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It is home to many historical sites, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature. The city’s economy is driven by industries such as manufacturing, construction, and tourism. Hanoi is also known for its vibrant street food scene and traditional arts such as water puppets.
We really enjoyed our time in Hanoi. We stayed at the Intercontinental Hotel at Westlake, which is an upscale area of the city and a gorgeous water view. Our guide insisted that we see the “father of the country” Ho Chi Mihn, and we stood in line for well over an hour for a brief glimpse of his embalmed body. It seemed as if every school child was in line to witness his body along with the modest home he stayed. While some of the tourist places (e.g., Ho Chi Minh’s Complex) has a clear propaganda agenda, we didn’t find the propaganda agenda in Hanoi as strong as in the South. That made the visit to Hanoi very pleasant.
Ha Long Bay
A wonderful thing to do when in Hanoi is to visit Halong Bay. This is truly an amazing place. The best way to do it is to take a cruise overnight and really enjoy the bay. You can book some great two-day cruises on Viator.
(All Inclusive 5-STAR) Amanda Cruise 2 Days 1 Night - Ha Long Bay
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia and home to over 2.3 million people. The city has a rich history and culture, with many historical sites such as the Royal Palace and, unfortunately, the Killing Fields. Phnom Penh’s economy is driven by industries such as garment manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture. The city has also seen rapid development in recent years, with new high-rise buildings and modern infrastructure.
There is a large amount of foreign investment being made in the city, mostly by China. While the country has made an attempt to become more democratic, the capital city is clearly still being impacted by its Chinese ties. It wasn’t clear how all these investments will pay out.
Best time to travel to Southeast Asia – Bangkok
Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and the largest city in the country, with a population of over 10 million people. The city is known for its vibrant street life, modern shopping malls, and rich cultural heritage. The city’s economy is driven by industries such as tourism, manufacturing, and finance. It is also home to many historical sites such as the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew.
We spent only two nights in Bangkok during our Spring 2023 Tour, which was not enough to really see the city. Bangkok is a much more developed city than Saigon, which has a bigger size and population. Cos had also been here on a business trip in the early 1990s. It was obvious to him how much this city has grown and changed during these thirty years. We were there during the Thai Water Festival and the traditional festivities of Songkran. It seems that everyone tries to pour or hurl water on others; even our upscale St. Regis Hotel sold water guns in various colors in the lobby. With the intense heat, frankly we were hoping to be soaked for some relief.
Singapore
Singapore is a city-state and island country in Southeast Asia, with a population of over 5.8 million people. It is known for its highly developed economy and modern infrastructure. The city-state is a major financial center, with a highly skilled workforce and a business-friendly environment. It is also known for its cleanliness, safety, and efficiency. In fact, there are stringent fines for littering and chewing gum was strictly forbidden! It was surprising that we found Singapore, Tokyo and Kyoto to be the cleanest places we visited in our Asian-Pacific 2023 tour, significantly different from most of the other Southeast Asia cities on our trip.
We only did one overnight stay in this city-state, so we had less time here than in the other major cities. We stayed at the Conrad Hotel and had a great local traditional dinner at the True-Blue Restaurant. They served time honored Peranakan cuisine, from Chinese settlers in maritime Southeast Asia (including Singapore, Phuket and Malaysia). We very much enjoyed our meal and the kind guidance provided by the host.
Our Favorite Southeast Asia Party Cities: Can Tho and Hoi An in Vietnam, and Siem Reap in Cambodia
Best time to travel to Southeast Asia – Can Tho
First, Can Tho. Neither of us had heard of Can Tho. Nevertheless, we were totally charmed by the use of festive lighting, creating a fun-filled nighttime atmosphere. Whether it was the neon lit streets, the pedestrian bridges or the dinner party boats, there was music and a joyful atmosphere. Entire families participated in the evening with all joining in.
Best time to travel to Southeast Asia – Hoi An
Hoi An is located on a serene river through the middle of town. Each evening couples and friends board small rowboats complete with floating candles and handmade lanterns. There is a vibrant night market with much fun and good products. Tourists also enjoy Hoi An’s night life as the city is aglow with lanterns and its festive atmosphere.
Best Time to Travel to Southeast Asia – Siem Reap
In visiting Siem Reap, we were surprised by the honky tonk atmosphere on Pub Street. There was live music everywhere, young people starting their evening with fun restaurants and street food nearby. Western music does not mean “country western” but rather non-Asian music. We heard rock, jazz and popular music everywhere. As the night progresses the crowds get bigger, more rowdy and dance in the streets.
Our Favorite Southeast Asia Beach Resorts: Phuket, Thailand and Bali, Indonesia
Phuket, Thailand and Bali, Indonesia are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. Both offer a unique blend of culture, religion, economy, infrastructure, and numbers of tourist visitors, making them ideal for travelers looking for a unique and memorable experience.
Best time to travel to Southeast Asia – Culture
When it comes to culture, Phuket is heavily influenced by its Thai roots, with a strong Buddhist presence and a focus on traditional values. Bali, on the other hand, is heavily Hindu and is known for its vibrant and colorful culture, with a focus on art, music, and dance. Both cultures are welcoming and friendly to tourists, though Bali is more relaxed and laidback, while Phuket has a more formal atmosphere.
Religion is also a major part of both cultures. Phuket is home to a large number of Buddhist temples, while Bali is home to many Hindu temples and shrines. Both cultures share a deep reverence for their respective religions, and visitors are expected to show respect when visiting temples and shrines.
The economy of both Phuket and Bali is heavily dependent on tourism. Phuket has a strong tourism industry, with a number of luxury resorts and hotels, as well as a variety of attractions and activities. Bali, on the other hand, is more focused on eco-tourism, with a focus on sustainable and responsible tourism. Both destinations offer a variety of shopping and dining options, as well as a range of activities to suit all tastes. We found Phuket to have a better selection of Michelin grade restaurants, while we did not visit any highly ranked restaurants in Bali. More about that later.
Southeast Asia – Phuket vs Bali Infrastructure
The infrastructure of both destinations is reasonably well-developed, with good roads, limited public bus transportation, and a range of accommodation options. However, Phuket is more developed than Bali, with a larger selection of hotels and resorts, much better roads, and a more modern infrastructure. Bali, on the other hand, is more rural, with a more laidback atmosphere.
The local population in both countries are heavily dependent on motorbikes to get around. In Bali, they tend to take over the roads and it is not unusual to see a family of four on a single bike. In Phuket they have modified some of the motorbikes with a sidecar type device. They are used to carry goods and people which appears a little safer than the four on a scooter approach in Bali. It was only a few years ago that Phuket was able to rely on roads and not just long boats to get around. They still use the long boats and kayaks to move people.
Tourist Numbers and Travel Seasons
The travel seasons in Southeast Asia vary by country and understanding them can help you plan your trip effectively. Let’s delve into the details:
- Dry Season (Peak Travel):
- November to February is the peak season for most of Southeast Asia.
- During this time, the weather is generally mild, and nights can be cooler. There is little rain.
- Popular destinations like Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and the Philippines experience pleasant temperatures, ranging from 20°C (68°F) to the low 30s°C (86+°F).
- It’s a perfect time for beach lovers to enjoy the beautiful beaches and other outdoor activities.
- Hot Season (High Travel):
- March to May constitutes the hot season in many Southeast Asian countries.
- Temperatures soar, and humidity levels rise.
- If you can handle the heat, this season offers fewer crowds and lower prices.
- Bangkok and other cities can get scorching, so staying hydrated and seeking shade are essential.
- Wet Season (Low Travel):
- June to October marks the rainy season in most SE Asian countries.
- Monsoon rains are common during this period.
- While it’s considered the low season, some travelers still visit because of reduced prices and fewer tourists.
- Malaysia, Indonesia (Bali), and Singapore experience their rainy season during this time.
- Off-Peak Considerations:
- November to February is also a great time to visit the Philippines, with cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall.
- If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind occasional showers, consider traveling during the rainy season.
- November through February is also the peak season for tourists from the western hemisphere, coinciding with their winter.
Summary
Remember that each country has its unique weather patterns, so it’s essential to check specific destinations when planning your Southeast Asia adventure. Whether you’re chasing sunsets on pristine beaches or exploring ancient temples, there’s a season for every traveler.
Finally, the number of tourist visitors to a specific destination in a country an vary. For example, in Thailand Phuket receives around 14 million visitors per year, while Bali receives around 6 million. Both destinations are popular with tourists, though Phuket is slightly more popular due to its larger selection of attractions and activities.
In conclusion, all places in Southeast Asia are fun to visit. Please visit our posts, with lots of pictures: especially, Bali, Indonesia and Phuket, Thailand.
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