Abdul AsyrafDo you often find yourself dreaming of faraway lands and exhilarating new experiences? But after checking your bank balance, reality hits and your wanderlust fades. The combined cost of flight tickets, accommodation, entrance fees to attractions, food expenses and miscellaneous costs per vacation can amount to quite a substantial sum.
To get you inspired, here are some FUN and FREE things to do in Southeast Asia, Japan, Taiwan and Korea without breaking the bank.
Bali: Feel the refreshing spray of the Nusa Dua Water Blow Beach
Image credit: Jnzl’s photos
Alluring coastal views are abound in Bali. But If you want to get close to some of Bali’s most magnificent coastal structures, head on to the Water Blow Beach at Nusa Dua. The limestone formations naturally create a blow pool, and give rise to an explosive burst of ocean water. Get your dose of the refreshing, salty spray for a Balinese experience unlike any other. But be careful not to stand too close, because you might end up completely drenched instead!
Bangkok: Catch the sunset at Wat Arun
Image credit: Mark Fischer
Also known as the Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun is one of the most beautiful temples in all of Thailand. Its majestic towers, boasting intricate mosaic tiles, overlook the Chao Phraya River. If you’re not keen on paying the 50 Baht entrance fee to enter the temple, you can simply find a good spot across the river to enjoy the magnificent views of the temple as the sun sets.
Cebu: Go on a walking tour and visit Cebu’s landmarks
Image credit: Raschid Salting
Aside from the natural beauty that Cebu has to offer, the city is also brimming with an abundance of art, heritage and culture. Different municipalities in the Philippines have their own historic structures dating back to the Spanish colonial era. Cebu City houses numerous landmarks such as Magellan’s Cross, Cebu Capitol Building, Colon Street and Fort San Pedro which are all walking distance from each other.
Phnom Penh: Participate in a meditation class at Wat Langka
Image credit: Marcin Konsek
Wat Langka is a prominent Buddhist Temple located in the heart of Phnom Penh city, near the Independence Monument. It offers free meditation classes four days a week, and sessions last for an hour. Alleviate your stress and worries by seeking inner peace and tranquillity at the heart of Cambodian hospitality. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and cover your knees and shoulders before entering the temple.
Hanoi: Join in old school games at Hoan Kiem Lake
Image credit: Anthony Tong Lee
A scenic oasis right smack in the middle of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the most visited and photographed attractions in the city. From the early hours of the morning till late at night, this park is a hotspot for both locals and tourists. Join the locals in a tai chi session or join the teenagers in a game of old-school jump rope or hopscotch. You simply must experience the endless hive of activity at Hoan Kiem Lake first-hand!
Taiwan: Take in panoramic city views from Elephant Mountain
Image credit: Marek Kubica
Elephant Mountain, also known as Xiangshan, is a popular hiking trail among locals and tourists alike. Located not far from the capital’s centre, the mountain allows you to marvel at the view of the Taipei skyline while enjoying nature at the same time. It is best to hike during late afternoon, where you can enjoy the view in three different lighting modes: daytime, sunset, and night time. Reaching the top will take you only about 20 to 30 minutes!
Kyoto: Walk through the toriis at the Fushimi Inari Shrine
Japan is notoriously known to be an expensive destination, but there are loads of things to do that won’t cost you a single yen! Be mesmerized the the sea of striking vermillion at the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. This world renowned attraction is most famous for thousands of shrines dedicated to Inari, the Shinto God of Rice. The higher up you go, the easier it will be to take a stunning picture without anyone ruining your shot!
Tokyo: Explore the lesser-known Golden Gai area
Image credit: Catherine Shyu
The apparent secrecy and lack of foreigners in this part of Shinjuku make visitors realise that they have stumbled upon one of Tokyo’s hidden gems. This tiny section of Golden Gai consists of about 6 narrow alleyways, and is home to over 200 tiny bars that are plastered with an eclectic range of posters, artwork and obscure logos. It is no wonder that Golden Gai is up and coming as an Insta-worthy location! Take in the sights and atmosphere as the area comes alive at night, and maybe head into one of the bars for a refreshing pint once you get thirsty.
Seoul: Collect free cosmetic samples in Myeongdong
Image credit: el_ave
Beauty buffs on a budget, Myeongdong is an absolute paradise! Well, we know cosmetics aren’t cheap. So if you’re up for some adventure, go on a treasure hunt in Seoul’s primary shopping neighbourhood. Myeongdong is chock-full of beauty-focused skincare and cosmetic stores that are generous with samples like free face masks! You might end up with a pocketful of items to last you the entire trip. Here’s a pro tip: if you’re travelling with a friend, enter the shop separately to increase the chances of getting more samples.
Seoul: Transform your Instagram feed at Ihwa Mural Village
Image credit: (bottom left) Wei-Te Wong, (top and bottom right) travel oriented
Located atop Mount Naksan is the Ihwa Mural Village, one of Seoul’s most unique attractions. In an area that was once scheduled for demolition, you will find numerous narrow laneways covered with colourful and captivating murals. Be sure to also spot the painted staircases and metal sculptures as you explore. The vibrant art scene in the neighbourhood has helped to inject life into the area, and is a paradise for avid Instagrammers!
So there you have it! You certainly don’t have to spend a bomb to have a great vacation. For those looking to travel on a budget, Asia is brimming with a multitude of FUN and FREE activities that are sure to give you the authentic experience you crave.
