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.
Articles in the 'Southeast Asia' Category
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.
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.
Catherine Garrett explores how it is possible to experience Cambodia’s wonderful temples and escape the crowds.
Nick Ghosh and Sid Davis find plenty to recommend a self-drive road trip from Singapore to Penang in Malaysia.
Simon Fransham shares his passion for Thailand, and recounts some of his experiences while living and working in this beautiful country.
Unrivalled comfort in your own private villa in Southeast Asia.
Mark Hotham discovers a road truly less travelled in northern Vietnam.
Kate Dicks discovers a birdwatcher’s paradise in Thailand’s national parks.
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.
Natalie Lewis discusses the plight of the Asian Elephant.
Natalie Lewis explains where to stay, what to eat and what to do in Bangkok.
The best island escapes are considered by our Southeast Asia.
From the deck of a boat view Southeast Asia’s traditional waterborne ways of life, which have remained unchanged for centuries.
Natalie Lewis recommends some of the destinations featured in our Southeast Asia brochure.
Charlie Read from our Southeast Asia team recounts his travel experiences in the region.
The luxuries of train travel, from South Africa to Southeast Asia.
Jo Poole remembers how she fell for Southeast Asia.
A wealth of underwater experiences for the snorkeller and scuba diver.
Despite common links, the countries of Southeast Asia have developed distinct national dishes.
Our specialist highlight two regions that were hit by the Tsunami and how their economies rely of tourism.
Vicky Nagle recounts her travels in Latin America.
Audley’s Southeast Asia specialists profile the magnificent religious sites of the region.
The best of Southeast Asia’s small hotels.
Some of the highlights of Southeast Asia.
Natalie Lewis recently travelled to the Philippines to research this often overlooked destination.
The most spectacular river journeys Southeast Asia has to offer.
Sustainable tourism is thriving in the rainforests of Borneo.
How to experience the best this fascinating country has to offer.
The peaceful charms of the Land of a Million Elephants.
An introduction to Thailand’s less well-known attractions.
Cambodia’s best and least-known sights.
Audley’s Indochina specialists explains why one particular hotel group has become a firm favourite with our clients.
How Audley, and you, can help a very special school in Saigon.
Audley’s Mekong river journey follows the river from the fertile delta region in Vietnam, via Cambodia to the mountains of northern Laos.
The changing face of Burma.
Our specialist visits Tanjong Jara, a luxury hideaway on the east coast of Malaysia.
Perfect resort hotels on the paradise island of Bali.
A two week trip to the glorious highlands and beautiful beaches of Malaysia.
Chris Orme reflects on the spectacular wildlife of Borneo.
Our Southeast Asia specialists run-down the region’s top tourist attractions.
We highlight four of our favourite resorts in China and Southeast Asia, offering an idyllic end to your journey…
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.
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.
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
