Feeling Malays? Vacationing In Southeast Asia

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Travel-Chispa MagazineMalaise: a general feeling of discomfort or unease whose exact source is difficult to identify. Many of us find ourselves feeling this way and struggle to work out why. Most of the time, it’s the result of boredom or frustration with your personal, professional or social life. There doesn’t even necessarily have to be something wrong in our lives to experience this feeling. But how do we shift it? Well, a temporary get away could be a good place to start. Experiencing new places and climates, tasting new foods, hearing new languages and generally immersing yourself in a new and different culture can give you the energy boost you need.

Malaysia
Malaysia could be a good place to start. Why? Well, it’ll give you a complete culture shock. This Southeast Asian country is best known for its beautiful beaches and tropical rainforests. A nice change from dreary rain and chilly temperatures. It also has a wonderful mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European cultural influences. If you want to experience alternative cultures, there aren’t many places that will offer you such a diverse combination. Try local dishes and speak with locals. Visit Borneo’s wild jungles. Give diving a go. Visit a tea plantation. Whatever takes your fancy, try it out. This is a once in a lifetime trip, so make the most of it. For a real treat, explore luxury 5-star hotels in Kuala Lumpur.

Laos
Laos is a landlocked country. It resides between Cambodia, China, Vietnam, Thailand and Myanmar. It is an ideal spot for those who aren’t so fond of the sea. It is a mountainous country, so proves popular with the backpacking and hiking communities. If you visit this country, check out Luang Prabang. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features former royal palaces.

The Philippines
The Philippines plays host to the largest Christian community in Southeast Asia. Its culture combines ancient Asian traditions with Spanish ideas of romance. Thus, it’s the perfect place to take a romantic break. Take a trip to Bohol to see The Chocolate Hills and scuba dive in stunning waters.

Indonesia
Indonesia: over 18,000 islands that cross over three different time zones. You’ll have your pick of plenty of places to visit here. Wherever you visit, try to spot a Komodo dragon. They’re truly a sight to behold. See volcanos, visit Buddhist temples and relax on picturesque beaches.

Thailand
Thailand draws all sorts of people. From gap year students to those searching out Thai brides. But it’s so much more than the mere stereotypes. Beautiful beaches abound, the national park is host to cascading waterfalls and temples give you a taste of cultural history.

Vietnam
Vietnam has all sorts of historical and cultural associations. It’s rapidly rising in the ranks of popular tourist destinations and the tourism industry is offering more excursions and sightseeing tours. Watch the sunset at Halong Bay, thrive in the bustling atmosphere of the Old Quarter and take a day to explore Hoi An Ancient Town.

Photo by Joanne Caselyn Suarez

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Mia Guerra

Mia Guerra

Executive Editor at Chispa Magazine
Executive Editor at Chispa Magazine, Mia Guerra is a writer at heart. Regardless the topic, she loves to investigate, encourage, and ruminate on topics that can make us better people. Aiming to live a Proverbs 31 life, Mia is ecstatic to be following her calling with Chispa. At home she is her husband's sidekick and together they are raising a God-fearing family in Atlanta.

Mia Guerra

Executive Editor at Chispa Magazine, Mia Guerra is a writer at heart. Regardless the topic, she loves to investigate, encourage, and ruminate on topics that can make us better people. Aiming to live a Proverbs 31 life, Mia is ecstatic to be following her calling with Chispa. At home she is her husband's sidekick and together they are raising a God-fearing family in Atlanta.