Southeast Asia is the best option for you if you are looking for a culturally enriched, vibrant, and welcoming country to visit. As a backpacker, our concerns mostly include our budget and all the work related to getting a visa. If you are an extra budget-conscious adventurer too, you should read till the end!
Countries that have the option for e-visa or visa on arrival have become the most sought-after destinations in recent years. Southeast Asia is a diverse region and here is how you can embark on a journey to the most popular destinations in your budget.
VISA ki chinta? NAKKO!:
Navigating visa requirements is one of the main concerns of every Indian backpacker. Fortunately, most of the countries in Southeast Asia have e-visa to offer to their tourists. Countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Cambodia are among those that provide online visa applications. In fact, Thailand and Malaysia fall under the cheapest visa countries for Indian citizens. Visa requirements are easy and cheaper in Southeast Asia countries making them ideal destinations for Indian travellers.
Chale gaye ab rahe kaha?
When we are looking for both budget-friendly and cheaper options for accommodations, Southeast Asia might just top our list of destinations. In Thailand, Bangkok’s Khao San Road is a hotspot for backpackers. This road is known for its lively guesthouses and hostels with local food and foreign backpackers who come with great stories of their travels and an open mind. Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur offers affordable accommodations in the bustling Bukit Bintang area, providing delicious local food and nearby attractions within walkable distances.
Khana kya khana?
If you love eating, your time in Southeast Asia will be a heavenly experience. There will be so much to try, so much to love, repeat, and never forget! Dishes like Pad Thai and Mango Sticky Rice are some of the must-try street food in Thailand. Vietnam’s bustling markets and sidewalk food stalls in Ho Chi Minh City offer dishes such as Pho (noodle soup) and Banh Mi (baguette sandwiches) which have become iconic food in famous food vlogging content too.
These street foods are cheap and deliciously authentic too! You may also try some of the fusion delicacies that people of Southeast Asia have come up with in recent years. If you get tired of all the new cuisines, you can even find Indian restaurants in most of these countries which will take your tastebuds right back to India!
Ghumne chale?
Just like in India, traveling in Southeast Asian countries is a cakewalk. Thanks to their intense local transportation facilities, getting around the cities is not teeth-grinding at all. Thailand is very well connected with train and bus networks that can take you to most of the famous destinations with ease. From the fun Bangkok nightclubs to the serene mountains of Chiang Mai, these transportation facilities can take you anywhere!
Vietnam has its traditional cyclo (“Guess what we call them in our country?”, is always an icebreaker convo when you are there!) just like in India. These might be similar to our rickshaws but to find Desi fun in a foreign land is an epic experience in itself!
Kyun aur kaha ghume?
Southeast Asia’s Vietnam has been awarded the “Asia's Leading Destination - World Travel Award” for three consecutive years since 2021. All the culturally rich destinations of Southeast Asia destination are must-see attractions, each promising an unforgettable experience.
Their architecture, local customs, food, beaches, nightlife, infrastructure, languages, and religion all of these will be of interest to you. Understanding how different these countries are yet so similar to India in diversity. Once you set foot in one of the Southeast Asian countries, you will realize how it's never enough time to see it all.
Culturally same hein!
Our cultural etiquette is similar to theirs in many aspects. In Thailand, removing your shoes before entering temples and dressing modestly are signs of respect for Buddhist customs and traditions. Just as we do in our religious customs. Paying respect to elders and greeting one another foster positive and friendly interactions.
Try saying "Selamat Pagi" (Good morning) or "Terima kasih" (Thank you) to the locals when in Malaysia. “Khop Khun” (Thank you) or “Mai pen rai” (You're welcome) when in Thailand. It is always interesting to watch the foreign locals see you speak some of their language!
Budget mein rehne ka!
There is always an option to eat in a fine-dining restaurant or to eat at local eateries or roadside stalls. In fact, Jai Fai, a roadside restaurant that specializes in Thai food like Khai Jeaw Poo, or crab omelet, a hot and sour soup called tom yum, and pad kee mao, is Thailand’s only Michelin Starred roadside stall.
Budget is not a concern if you are a backpacker looking for affordable food, accommodation, and transportation in Southeast Asian countries. Exchange currencies before you head to these destinations. However, in case you run out, there are currency exchange centers in major cities or you can also use ATMs that offer competitive exchange rates. You can take advantage of free walking tours available in some tourist attractions without exceeding your budget and still have a lot of fun sightseeing and roaming around.
TripMaza pe booking ka mazza!
Affordability meets adventure in all of the Southeast Asian countries. Whether you’re savoring street food in Vietnam, exploring ancient ruins in Cambodia, or immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Malaysia, Southeast Asia promises a variety of experiences that every budget-conscious Indian traveler can afford without burning huge amounts on food and accommodations.
At TripMaza, we are dedicated to making your travel dreams a reality. We are always working towards meeting your needs and are ever ready to cater to personalized travel experiences for you and your family. From booking flights and accommodations to providing real-time updates on flight timings and delays, we are committed to ensuring a seamless and stress-free travel experience. Let us guide you with curated itineraries and insider tips, making every moment of your journey memorable and worry-free.
Start planning your budget-friendly backpacking adventure with TripMaza today and discover the magic of Southeast Asia like never before!
