Looking For A Getaway During CNY? Here Are 7 Hidden Gems To Explore In Southeast Asia
It's never too early to make your travel plans. ;)
Published for CIMB, 01 Dec 2022, 04:00 PM
With Chinese New Year coming up in January, you know what that means — time to start planning that long overdue vacay!
After all, it's never too early to make your travel plans, amiright? From planning your itinerary to ensuring your passport is renewed six months in advance, there's just so much to do before you hop on a plane and unleash that pent-up wanderlust. :D
But, instead of heading to popularised destinations around the world, why not take a look at the more hidden travel destinations that are just as enriching?
1. You'll have much to do in the quiet village of Nong Khiaw in Laos, such as exploring the beautiful limestone mountains
Visiting this region of Southeast Asia will definitely be worth it, as adventure seekers will be able to hike through the 100 Waterfalls Trek, limestone mountains, and Nong Kiaw Viewpoint (Phadeng Peak). Other thrilling activities include zip-lining through the surrounding forest, exploring the Pha Tok caves, bamboo rafting on the Nam Ou river, and so much more!
Plus, you'll be able to experience great weather conditions in January as Laos will have cool and dry weather between November to April.
2. Enjoy a bird's eye view of Indonesia's Kelingking Beach, also home to a one-of-a-kind cliff peninsula in the shape of a T-Rex
Kelingking Beach is found on Penida Island, which is part of three islands that together comprise Nusa Islands. One of the most beautiful spots here the viewpoint of the beach and its T-Rex shaped peninsula from above.
You can sit down on a ledge to take in these views, or traverse down the stairs (be careful!) to arrive at the beach itself and experience its pounding waves up close.
Interestingly, Penida Island is also one of four islands in Indonesia that is home to the manta ray, where you can dive with these gentle, magnificent creatures.
3. Looking for a less touristy island? Head over to Koh Yao Yai in Thailand so you can relax on white sandy beaches!
Islands such as Krabi and Phi Phi are usually swarmed with crowds, seeing as they boast stunning natural scenery. If you wanna escape all that noise, this hidden gem will give you peace of mind, as this island located offshore of Phuket is less known to tourists. With many locally-owned restaurants, it retains a rural Thai atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy beaches such as Laem Haad, which stretches out far into the ocean.
You can even rent a motorcycle to explore the island even further, and dine on local Thai cuisine. Just be sure to buy street food from roadside stalls if you're on a budget!
4. Unwind amidst the serene rice terrace hills of Sa Pa in Vietnam
Located in northwestern Vietnam, Sa Pa is a remote town known for its pristine rice terraces, cool weather, and unique culture of ethnic minorities.
Escape from the busyness of city life and give yourself time to unwind, while taking in the scenic views of some of the most beautiful rice terraces in the world.
For those who enjoy trekking and culture, there are many picturesque hillsides as well as small ethnic villages to explore.
5. Be transported to the mighty sand dunes of Mui Ne in Vietnam
The interesting thing about Mui Ne is that it is a seaside town in Vietnam, famous for being the home of fish sauce.
Yet, just 25km away, you'll find a geographical wonder in the White Sand Dunes of Mui Ne.
Giving off Sahara Desert vibes, these sand dunes transport you into a whole other world. Once there, feel free to ride on a quad bike, dune buggy, or sled down tall sandy slopes, before watching the sun set on the dunes in its glorious golden hues.
6. Delve deep into the cave systems within Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park to discover natural wonders you never could imagine
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Vietnam offers various hiking trails, countryside lanes, and rivers you can kayak in. But the true wonder is its cave system, the largest in the world!
This UNESCO World Heritage Site features epic caves with underground rivers, mesmerising stone formations, and unexpected natural beauty hidden under the earth.
Son Doong Cave, for instance, is in the heart of the national park, and contains unique underground rainforests, gigantic ceiling cave collapses, as well as an emerald lagoon.
7. Get a glimpse into Thailand's wildlife in their natural habitat at Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary
Covering 5,775 square kilometres, Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest connected conserved forest in Thailand and Southeast Asia. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring five types of tropical forests and various endangered species.
It is one of the best destinations for wildlife watching, and there are many trails and waterfalls to explore. And if you're lucky, you may even spot tigers, leopards, elephants, and other wildlife.
So, do you know where you're headed for next year's CNY holidays yet? :P
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Haa, so whatchu waiting for? Hurry up and book your dream holiday at these hidden destinations with CIMB OctoTravel!
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