The pandemic has disrupted the tourism industry as well as travel plans globally. Being at the bleeding edge of storm has intensely thrown us from a predictable risk environment into the deep uncertainty of uncharted waters.
All eyes are now on the tourism industry’s next steps, whether and how it will be proactive in attracting anxious travelers. In consideration of the current situation, it is predicted that more remote setting would be preferred post the pandemic due and personal space becomes essential.
Southeast Asia has countless of wonderful places to discover from pristine beaches, thick lush jungle and breathtaking dive sites. It is only natural that people will get bored of seeing the same old locations featured in those magazine, therefore here are the list of fabulous hidden gems that you’ve got to explore on your next trip to this amazing part of the globe. In addition, you don’t have to share with a million other tourists fighting for the best photo. This way you get a unique experience as well as get to really enjoy the destination with its locals.
- Bokeo Nature Reserve, Laos
Laos is a charmer sandwiched between five countries in the heart of South-East Asia. If you are an animal-lover who adores being surrounded by nature, this place must be on your bucket list. Initially, the reserve was set up to protect the black-crested gibbon, a species that was previously thought to be extinct but now is listed as critically endangered. Visitors will be involved in a true ecotourism trip where travelers can stay in some of the tallest treehouses in the world, amongst the wildlife of the jungle and can travel by zip line through the forest in search of the gibbon. It will definitely be an unforgettable experience and a place you don’t want to miss.
- Mrauk U, Myanmar
If you are looking for an authentic cultural experience with limited tourism infrastructure, this spot has been hidden for too long. Bagan tend to be one of the top destination in Myanmar, however people rarely know Mrauk U in consideration of its remote location. The archeological site hosts hundreds of temples which sprawl across hills and valleys and there is almost no tourist around to bump into. It is an area of great natural beauty set amidst rolling hills.
- Jomalig Island, the Philliphines
Jomalig is an unpopular island municipality in Quenzon Province. It boasts of gold and white beaches, the reason why people tend to refer the place as a desert paradise in the middle of the ocean and often is the epitome of “off the beaten path.” The island offers the exotic seafood such as lobster, shrimps, crab and Surahan fishes, considered by people in Polillo Islands as the world’s most delightful.
- Banteay Chhmar
Forget the swarms at Angkor, the recent years allow the former Khmer Kingdom to shape Cambodia into one of Southeast Asia’s most tempting destination. Though the temples are jaw-droppingly beautiful, Cambodia offers so much more. Banteay Chhmar is Cambodia’s best kept secret. It is massive but hidden temple complex and is the perfect spot to live out the Indiana Jones fantasies. It is also the 4th largest Angkorian temple surrounded by a vast moat, it boasts gallery walls carved with bas-reliefs and face towers similar to those Angkor complex.
When we are finally able to travel again, never has out wanderlust been stronger. So why not fantasize about your next travel plans by taking a pick from these five worthy contenders?