UNESCO Heritage sites in South-east Asia:

UNESCO has a total of 37 heritage sites in the South-east Asia region and these are all scattered throughout various countries and locations. These sites are established to preserve the history and culture of the locations and it is an important asset to the country and the world as a whole as it documents lifestyle and culture. The countries that are included are Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Cambodia.

In this list, we'll be covering one heritage sites from the each of the various countries starting with:

Indonesia: Komodo National park

Indonesia is the one country that is known to be the native land of the world's largest giant lizards. The Komodo dragons aren't actual dragons but lizards of massive size. Their native birthplace is this island which is now turned into a national park in order to preserve them.

Vietnam: Hoi An

Hoi An is an important trading port where trade was centered in the 15th to 19th century. The town has traces of numerous local and foreign influence. However, the history, culture and infrastructure is well preserved and seeps through the ages till today.

Malaysia: Kinabalu Park

All of Malaysia's 13 states has a unique quality that each state is best known for and towards the East, on the state of Sabah is one of the highest mountains in the Asian region. Mount Kinabalu is one of the mountains with a peak so high that plenty of climbers challenge.

Philippines: Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

Divers would love this site as the pristine and clear waters reveal some of the world's hidden treasure under the depths of the waves. The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park hosts a variety of coral reefs and marine wildlife.

Singapore: Singapore Botanic Gardens

Reminiscent of a European-style botanic garden of plants established under British rule in 1859. From then onwards, it stands as a landmark representative of Singaporean history and culture while relative and significant of science, education and the importance of conservation.

Laos: Town of Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang, a town filled with the history and splendour that presents itself as the ancient capital of the old kingdom of Laos. Luang Prabang's buildings blends and combines those of Asian and European cultures that comes together to create the uniqueness that is Luang Prabang.

Myanmar: Pyu ancient cities

The three ancient cities of Halin, Beikthano and Sri Ksetra remains from the Pyu Kingdom that lasted for eleven centuries from 200 BC to 900 AD. The ruins breathe of a rich Buddhist culture left behind from royal, religious structures and an irrigation system.

Thailand: Historic city of Ayutthaya

Nestled in the Ayutthaya province, this historic city was once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam. The remains of the destruction of the Burmese in the 18th century speak aloud of the religious and administrative buildings that once stood proud; hinting towards the city's majestic history.

Cambodia: Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is infamous amongst the South-east region as a major archaeological site filled with the beauty of ancient remains of the Khmer Empire. The site includes the famous temple of Angkor Wat, the Bayon Temple, and the jungle covered Ta Phrom Temple being part of the arsenal.

Here area few of the different UNESCO heritage sites around the South East Asia region. We hope that you have a great time if you happen to come across these amazing sites. Till the next post, safe travels everyone!

Phuket: An over-commercialized “heaven” for tourists?

Like some other conservative travelers who enjoy a relaxing beach sunset while sipping a bottle of coke, some of us may enjoy the serenity or tranquility which we may find on islands and beaches. Upon Google search on where to go in Southeast Asia for these beaches, Phuket comes out in the list.

    

For first-time travelers in Phuket, most of them will either straight away head to the famous Patong beach or Kata beach once landed from the airport. Dreaming of a serene view overlooking the sea, you may find yourself in shock. Crowded beaches with Russians and Chinese will be the first thing you will see.

After strolling down the beach sometime, you may want to find a place to just sit down or hang out. Once you sit down, you will “bombarded” by mat sellers or just some random umbrella vendors. Some of them will be rather rough when you try to bargain. The dream of enjoying a serene sunset by the beach? Busted.!

Nightlife around the main beaches in Phuket may also be a mess. Loud booming EDM , drunkards, and hookers. The worst case scenario for travelers who enjoys calm, serene environment.

What we recommend is spend minimum time to explore these over-commercialized spots in Phuket such as Patong or Kata beach. Spend some time staying in condotels of Phuket town enjoying the real local livelihood of Phuket islanders or go to some underrated beaches such as Yan Nui beach which is situated not far from the Promethep Cape.

Some detailed planning will help you from dropping in just another tourist trap in Phuket.

Haze: An annual "norm" in Southeast Asia?

From the annual “plantation burning ritual” in Indonesian grounds to the uncontrollable forest fire in the north of Indochina, Haze has already becoming a more and more serious issue in this part of this world.

Southeast Asia not only offers the great convenience of an international hub, but also is blessed by the abundance of beautiful natural resources. From the sandy beaches in Koh Samui of Thailand to the mountains in Crocker Range of Malaysia, southeast Asia attracts millions of visitors around the world annually.

However, haze problems has been dramatically growing during these past few years. With hazardous PSI levels heading up to nearly 250 in Singapore, it has severely affect the good tourism reputation of most countries in Southeast Asia.

Although the ASEAN governments has “dramatically” come up with new partnerships to cope with the severe haze, the haze problems had not been resolved in these past few years. Recent haze which strike Chiang Rai of Thailand and also parts of East Malaysia has is becoming an annual norm for people living there. 

What strikes us is till when the ASEAN community can come up with a haze remedy not only to protect our natural resources but also to protect our own Southeast Asians? 

What to bring for trips in Tropical Climates?

Most parts of Southeast Asia are under tropical climate regions and a visit to there may be a disaster if one do not prepare well. Here are some items to keep a traveller checked when visiting Southeast Asia:

1. Mosquito repellent/Bug repellent:

Tropical climate regions are the best breeding ground for bugs and mosquitoes. Mosquito or bug repellents is a must to prepare before heading to tropical regions such as Southeast Asia

2. Foldable Umbrella:
 

Simply a shield for rain or shine. Make sure it is foldable which is more convenient to fit in backpacks.

3. Light-material backpacks:

A useful item to keep your stuff on the go. Canvas backpacks or other light-weighted material backpacks will not only be waterproof, but also will not be a hassle to bring during trips.

4. Slippers/Sandals:
 

This item will be of good use when going to the beach or when you simply just don't want to step on the carpet with your bare feet at the hotel.

5. Straw Hats:
 

A good alternative to bringing an umbrella. Plus, straw hats are light too.

6. Sunscreen:

The sunlight can be quite strong even during mornings in tropical climates. Applying sunscreen before heading out will minimize the damage done to your skin.

7. Sunglasses:

Not only to keep your coolness, but also to protect your eyes from the sunlight from time to time.

8. Small first-aid kit: 

An open wound or simply just a scratch may get worst or even attract unwanted diseases in tropical climates. First-aid kits which contain antiseptics, cotton and bandages will go a long way preventing you from being infected by tropical diseases.

9. A small packet of salt:

Especially useful for jungle travellers. Leeches and bugs of commonly found in the jungles of tropical climate regions. Salt can easily remove leeches from skin without doing any damage.