There are so many attractions offered by countries in Southeast Asia. Apart from the enchanting natural beauty, the hospitality of the people, and the cheap cost of living are main reasons for people to spend holidays in Southeast Asia. Of course, explorers are familiar with destinations such as Bali, Siem Reap, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, or other famous cities. But actually, Southeast Asia is much more beautiful than that. It’s no wonder that many tourists from Europe and America liken Southeast Asia to heaven. The natural beauty and the endemic fruits of Southeast Asia never stop them to be amazed.
If you want to get to know the real Southeast Asia, then this article is the right reading for you. We have presented various hidden paradises that you will only find in Southeast Asia.
- Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Ha Long Bay is a beautiful bay located in Vietnam. Ha Long Bay consists of a group of islands and limestone karst which have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In fact, there are many islands that are actually high monolithic impassable cliffs, covered in lush green forest.
One of the interesting places here is the Dau Go Cave, a large cave that has three main chambers, colorful stalagmites, and rock paintings. Apart from that, there are also many islands that have their own closed lakes.
There are about 2,000 islands in Ha Long Bay, but no more than 40 people have permanent residency permits. They live in floating houses and work as fishermen.
The largest island in Ha Long Bay is named Cat Ba. This island is the place to stay the night most often occupied by tourists. Kayaking in the turquoise waters is one of the top activities here, plus exploring the bay by traditional boat is a must!
- Boracay Island, Phillipines
This small island called Boracay is right across from Panay Island, one of the largest islands in the Philippines. The size of this island is only 10 square kilometers, but don’t be surprised, Boracay Island can attract thousands of visitors every year! They come there to enjoy the four kilometers long beach and its fine white sand. In addition, tourists can ride a sailboat while rocking with the waves.
Activities that are no less exciting on Boracay Island are scuba diving and snorkeling. The underwater scenery is guaranteed to make you grateful that you have lived on Earth. Boracay Island is also famous for its parasailing, kiteboarding and swimming – and, perhaps more unexpectedly, cliff diving. Of course, there will be guides and lifeguards who are ready to take care of your safety while on vacation on Boracay Island.
- Komodo Island, Indonesia
Komodo Island is one of the more than 17,000 islands that make up Indonesia. This rugged island measuring only about 400 square kilometers is the original home for the world’s largest lizard, the Komodo dragon. In fact, the Komodo dragon population on the island is estimated to be twice as large as its permanent population. When you walk through the hills and forests on this island, don’t be surprised if you will find lots of Komodo dragons.
Apart from being the habitat of the Komodo dragons, Komodo Island is also home to a variety of wet ecosystems, namely coral reefs and mangroves, both of which are also an attraction for tourists who wish to explore, dive or kayak around the island.
It is not enough to stop there, there is also the attraction of this island, namely the Red Beach. This unique beach is one of only seven pink sand beaches in the world. The sand, which resembles cotton candy, is the result of an interesting natural phenomenon, where there is a microorganism called foraminifera, which lives on dead coral, its pink shell washed onto the beach and mixed with white sand, creating a unique sight that spoils the eye.
- Koh Samui, Thailand
Sunset and snorkeling lovers are no stranger to the name Koh Samui. In its time, Koh Samui was a favorite destination for backpackers. Before it was famous as it is now, the number of visitors was not as busy as it is now. However, over time, change after change began to be experienced by Koh Samui. Gradually, various luxurious entertainment began to be built here, such as upscale resorts and luxury spas. This makes more and more tourists come to Koh Samui.
Most of the tourists who come to Koh Samui are to enjoy its beaches. Chaweng and Lamai Beach are two of the most popular beaches. On this beach, there are many activities that visitors can do, for example sailing, scuba diving, and swimming.
If you visit here, you won’t be satisfied if you haven’t visited Ang Thong National Marine Park. In this park, you can explore mangrove forests and hidden lakes which are incredibly beautiful. Visitors can also enjoy the view of the 12 meter high golden Buddha statue at the Big Buddha temple which is located at the top of the hill. If you hike through the tropical forest, you will also be rewarded with a stunning view of the Na Muang waterfall.
- Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Raja Ampat is an archipelago which consists of many corals and is widespread throughout its territory. However, of the many islands there, Raja Ampat has 4 main islands, namely Waigeo Island, Batanta Island, Salawati Island, and Misool Island which are also the 4 largest islands there. These four large islands are also the starting point for the distribution of the entire population of Raja Ampat, who mostly work as fishermen. This is also the beginning of the name “Raja Ampat” which also means four kings.
The Raja Ampat waters are the main attraction here, because of its beauty, Raja Ampat waters have been selected as one of the 10 best waters in the world. This is based on various studies on environmental sustainability and also the richness of flora and fauna in the Raja Ampat sea.
The tropical climate and cool temperatures all year round, means that anyone can dive in Raja Ampat all year round. The surrounding natural landscape which consists of green rainforest contrasts sharply with the white sandy beaches and blue sea. Naturally, anyone would want to take pictures here.
