Traveling Across Southeast Asia: 3 Favorite Cities — and 1 to Skip

My first trip to Southeast Asia in 2010 was a revelation. As a young South African, my global travels were just beginning, but the vibrant cultures of Thailand and Malaysia left a lasting impression.

That journey sparked a desire to see the world, and 15 years and 38 countries later, I’ve come to a simple conclusion: Nowhere else offers the same exotic, compelling diversity as Southeast Asia. I returned to this part of the world again and again, often on my own, and eventually, last year, made Thailand home.

Through years of solo travel, I’ve learned that every country has its highlights, but some destinations become lifelong loves while others lose their spark. Based on my experiences, here are three cities I recommend to fellow travelers, and one that, sadly, I now suggest skipping.

Phuket, Thailand: My go-to for serenity and excitement

Bangkok may claim the title of the world’s most visited city, but Phuket offers the most quintessential Thai experience. It was the first Asian destination I visited, and it left a lasting impression that ultimately led me to call it home.

Despite its reputation as a tourist magnet, I’ve never tired of it. For a solo traveler, Phuket’s variety is what makes it special. You can find peace in the sleepy jungle villages of Kamala, dive into the electric nightlife of Patong, wander the colorful Sino-Portuguese shophouses of Phuket Old Town, or island-hop to nearby Koh Phi Phi.

Over the years, Phuket became my sanctuary. During times when I needed a reset — including the tail end of the pandemic, when my mental health was in shambles — it was my solo go-to. I found peace and serenity here without sacrificing Thai culture, cuisine, or entertainment.

Luang Prabang, Laos: A spiritual respite

Luang Prabang had long been on my bucket list, and when I finally visited, it exceeded all my expectations. This UNESCO World Heritage town, where the intersection of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet, offers a perfect balance of spiritual serenity, natural beauty, and cultural richness.

As a solo traveler, I found a much-needed break from my manic city life. The town’s café scene makes it an ideal spot for digital nomads to work and connect. One of my most memorable moments was taking a slow boat on the Mekong.

During my 2018 visit, I woke before dawn to witness the sacred Alms Giving Ceremony. Hundreds of saffron-robed monks silently processed through the streets as locals and visitors donated food. The ritual is believed to generate positive karma for this and future lives.

My highlight, though, was swimming in the turquoise waters of Kuang Si Falls, a series of cascading pools deep in the jungle and one of the most stunning natural sites I’ve ever seen.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Bustling energy and unexpected perks

Vietnam is rapidly gaining popularity as a travel destination, even surpassing Thailand for the first time this year in attracting the lucrative Chinese tourism market. Its southern capital, Ho Chi Minh City, is a chaotic, charming metropolis that won my heart instantly.

In a city this lively, I’ve never felt alone. On my first visit, I joined a street food walking tour that included stalls where I got to cook my own dishes. I even learned to make bánh xèo — a savory crepe filled with shrimp or pork and bean sprouts, then wrapped with fresh herbs.

The city also offered practical perks for long-term travelers. Vietnamese medical clinics operate at a high standard for a fraction of Western prices. I had dental work, saw specialists, and even got Botox there. It was all affordable and excellent.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: A city that lost its spark

When I first visited Kuala Lumpur, as part of my first trip to Southeast Asia, I fell in love with its gritty yet luxurious energy. I explored the city alone on foot, shopped, and partied so hard I almost missed my flight. So when I returned in 2023, I was shocked. The KL I knew felt like a shell of its former self.

Lately, Malaysia has been leaning more conservative, tightening rules around concerts and nightlife in line with cultural and religious values. Some international shows have been canceled, and bars face stricter limits on serving alcohol and late-night hours.

I respect local customs, but I wasn’t prepared for how much things had changed. After five years living in the Middle East, I actually found Kuala Lumpur to feel more restrictive than Dubai or Abu Dhabi — something I never expected.

The gay clubs I remembered were gone. I found one remaining drag bar, but the atmosphere was subdued. Venturing out alone, I felt bored and disconnected, as if I were on a different continent.

I’m grateful I experienced the city when I did, but today it feels like a hollow echo of its vibrant past — one I don’t plan to revisit anytime soon.

Do you have a story to share about living in Asia? Contact the editor at akarplus@businessinsider.com.