Articles in the 'Southeast Asia' Category

Traditions Worth Keeping

Southeast Asia is home to many minority groups and tribes, but visiting them can make westerners feel uncomfortable. The difference between the material wealth of the traveller and the poverty of the villagers is on stark display, and it can be difficult to come to terms with the disparity of living standards. The last thing you want is to feel like a voyeur, so we have found some ways for you to get involved with the local people, allowing you to feel more like a guest. Here some of our Southeast Asia specialists talk about their own experiences and how you can ensure that your visit gives something back to the areas that you spend time in.

Responsible travel

Responsible travel is not only about minimising the environmental impact of travel, but also about improving the social and economic infrastructures of host destinations. Ultimately, we strive to ensure that a visit from Audley clients leaves a destination better rather than worse off. The nature of our ground operations lends itself to the ethos of responsible travel – we use, wherever possible, locally owned accommodation options, locally managed grounds agents and local guides and drivers. One of the vital parts of our country specialists’ research trips is to unearth new initiatives. Here are a few of our favourites.

Indonesia: Beyond Bali

Mention Indonesia and people instantly think of Bali, but this vast archipelago has far more to offer than just the beautiful beaches and cultural heart of this tiny island. Here, our Indonesia specialists discuss some of the other, lesser known islands and why they are special to them.

Serenity of Cambodia’s Temples

Catherine Garrett explores how it is possible to experience Cambodia’s wonderful temples and escape the crowds.

The road from Singapore

Nick Ghosh and Sid Davis find plenty to recommend a self-drive road trip from Singapore to Penang in Malaysia.

Tales from the Kingdom

Simon Fransham shares his passion for Thailand, and recounts some of his experiences while living and working in this beautiful country.

A Little Piece of Home

Unrivalled comfort in your own private villa in Southeast Asia.

A Journey Through Ha Giang

Mark Hotham discovers a road truly less travelled in northern Vietnam.

On the Wing

Kate Dicks discovers a birdwatcher’s paradise in Thailand’s national parks.

Citizens of the Forest

Malaysia and the less developed islands of Indonesia are home to some of the most elusive and threatened primates in the world. Joanne Poole discusses the various species and where to find them.

Protection of the Asian Elephant

Natalie Lewis discusses the plight of the Asian Elephant.

Two Nights in Bangkok

Natalie Lewis explains where to stay, what to eat and what to do in Bangkok.

Season’s in the Sun

The best island escapes are considered by our Southeast Asia.

Asia Afloat

From the deck of a boat view Southeast Asia’s traditional waterborne ways of life, which have remained unchanged for centuries.

Southeast Asia: Our Specialists’ Choices

Natalie Lewis recommends some of the destinations featured in our Southeast Asia brochure.

Eastern Promise

Charlie Read from our Southeast Asia team recounts his travel experiences in the region.

Comfort and Splendour

The luxuries of train travel, from South Africa to Southeast Asia.

An Asian Affair

Jo Poole remembers how she fell for Southeast Asia.

Underwater Southeast Asia

A wealth of underwater experiences for the snorkeller and scuba diver.

Same, Same but Different

Despite common links, the countries of Southeast Asia have developed distinct national dishes.

After the Tsunami

Our specialist highlight two regions that were hit by the Tsunami and how their economies rely of tourism.

Latin Afficionada

Vicky Nagle recounts her travels in Latin America.

Spiritual Enlightenment

Audley’s Southeast Asia specialists profile the magnificent religious sites of the region.

Pearls of the Orient

The best of Southeast Asia’s small hotels.

Journey East

Some of the highlights of Southeast Asia.

Country Profile: The Philippines

Natalie Lewis recently travelled to the Philippines to research this often overlooked destination.

Go with the Flow

The most spectacular river journeys Southeast Asia has to offer.

Greener than Green

Sustainable tourism is thriving in the rainforests of Borneo.

Audley’s Vietnam

How to experience the best this fascinating country has to offer.

The Jewel of Laos

The peaceful charms of the Land of a Million Elephants.

Asia’s Best Kept Secret

An introduction South Korea.

Thailand Uncovered

An introduction to Thailand’s less well-known attractions.

Angkor… and beyond

Cambodia’s best and least-known sights.

Victoria’s Secrets

Audley’s Indochina specialists explains why one particular hotel group has become a firm favourite with our clients.

The 15th May School

How Audley, and you, can help a very special school in Saigon.

Mekong Journey

Audley’s Mekong river journey follows the river from the fertile delta region in Vietnam, via Cambodia to the mountains of northern Laos.

Discovering the Golden Land

The changing face of Burma.

A Room with a View

Our specialist visits Tanjong Jara, a luxury hideaway on the east coast of Malaysia.

The Waka Experience

Perfect resort hotels on the paradise island of Bali.

Malaysia Contrasts

A two week trip to the glorious highlands and beautiful beaches of Malaysia.

Taking a Walk on the Wild Side

Chris Orme reflects on the spectacular wildlife of Borneo.

Top Ten Sights in Indochina

Our Southeast Asia specialists run-down the region’s top tourist attractions.

Beaches & Retreats

We highlight four of our favourite resorts in China and Southeast Asia, offering an idyllic end to your journey…

River Journeys

Asia’s mighty rivers offer a handful of classic river cruises, here we focus on two of the most famous: the Yangtse in China and Burma’s great Irrawaddy.

Autumn & Winter in Focus

Travelling to Asia in Autumn and Winter gives you a chance to experience the colours of autumnal Japan, the clear skies of Laos and Southern India’s delightful backwaters.

On Track in Asia

Rail travel is a memorable way to discover Asia. Our specialists compare two contrasting styles: the fun nostalgia of India’s toy trains, and the absolute luxury of the Eastern and Oriental Express train from Singapore to Bangkok