Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Where to Stay and Go!

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Where to Stay and Go!

If cultural diversity, amazing natural attractions and modern sights are your jam, then Southeast Asia is the region to visit!

Mention Southeast Asia (SEA), and what comes to mind immediately is the myriad of experiences it offers, from the sun-kissed beaches of Bali to the sprawling metropolis that is Singapore. SEA is also home to diverse cultures and cuisines; no matter which country you visit, an exciting vacation awaits!

When it comes to accommodation, you can trust Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to provide a quality-assured stay not just in the region, but worldwide as well, being a reputable brand with an international presence. This means that you can literally check in, leave your luggage in your room and embark on your tour immediately with a peace of mind, and return to rest and recharge for another day of exploration.

Now that we’ve got your accommodation sorted, here is a travel guide to five SEA destinations to kickstart your adventures!

1. Bali, Indonesia

Image credit: Harry Kessell

Bali is known as an island paradise. Other than its pristine beaches, take in the breathtaking views of Bali’s iconic rice paddies at the Tegallalang Rice Terraces. A trip to the Island of the Gods won’t be complete without visiting religious Hindu sites, such as the cliffside Uluwatu Temple.

Image credit: WATERBOM BALI

Although Bali is known for its luxurious spas and yoga retreats, adrenaline junkies can still get their fill of thrills. Get your heart pumping on an exhilarating white water rafting adventure at Ayung River, the longest river in Bali. For a splashing good time, bring the whole family down to Waterbom Bali, where there are water rides of varying thrill levels that cater to everybody.

Image credit: Jihan

For shopping fiends, head to Seminyak, where there’s a smorgasbord of small shops selling the usual Balinese suspects like yoga attire and surf wear, to health food and organic produce. We particularly like Bali Boat Shed, a one-stop shop showcasing the island’s best brands!

Image credit: Wyndham Dreamland Resort Bali

After enjoying the sights and thrills of Bali, Wyndham Dreamland Resort Bali is the perfect place to unplug and unwind as the resort is located in a secluded area of Pecatu. The resort’s rooms and suites offer spectacular ocean views you can wake up to every morning. If the views are beckoning you to the beach, Bingin Beach – a popular surfing spot – is only a short stroll away. Want a break from salty waters? You can choose to take a dip in one of the resort’s three sparkling pools.

Address: Kawasan Pecatu Indah JI Pantai Dreamland Pecatu, 80364, Bali Indonesia
Phone: (+62) 361 4463900

If you’re more of a city explorer, Wyndham accommodations are also available in Indonesian cities of Jakarta and Surabaya such as the Wyndham Casablanca Jakarta and Wyndham Surabaya City Centre.

2. Manila, The Philippines

Image credit: Jhong Dizon

Being Asia’s only former Spanish colony, Manila boasts a mix of Spanish colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers. Explore its past at Intramuros, the Walled City, the centre of Spanish life in Manila. Then, drop by and be amazed at the architecture of the Coconut Palace. Most of the materials that make this unique building is derived from, you’ve guessed it, the coconut palm tree. In the evening, immerse yourself in a popular Filipino pastime by hitting up a videoke (karaoke) bar and belt out to your favourite songs with the locals.

Image credit: Enchanted Kingdom

For the kids, and kids at heart, a thrilling journey awaits you at Enchanted Kingdom, the Philippines’ first and only theme park. With seven themed zones and over 20 attractions, be prepared to have a magical time. Another of the Philippines’ first is the Manila Ocean Park. Dive in and marvel at variety of colourful marine creatures such as sharks, fishes and even penguins.

Image credit: Ed Puno

Seafood lovers should not miss a visit to Seaside Dampa Macapagal, where the ocean’s harvest is at its freshest! Take your time to peruse the many stalls selling all kinds of seafood – don’t forget to hassle, for it’s half the fun and may even halve your bill! After taking your pick, simply bring your freshly purchased produce to one of the many restaurants next to the market, where they’ll cook your dinner for you.

Image credit: TRYP by Wyndham Mall of Asia Manila

After the singing and screaming, give your vocal cords a break and check into TRYP by Wyndham Mall of Asia Manila. If you are coming with your little ones, the family rooms are equipped with kid-friendly bunk beds. A stone’s throw away is the famed SM Mall of Asia, a shopaholic’s haven. In the evening, wind down by taking a refreshing dip in the hotel’s rooftop pool. Then head over to the hotel’s Encarmada Rooftop Bar, where you can enjoy the stunning, panoramic views of Manila bay.

Address: Seaside Boulevard, Corner J.W. Diokno Blvd, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay, 1308 Metro Manila, Philippines
Phone: +63 2 840 8000

If you want to explore one of Philippines’ beautiful islands instead, check out other Wyndham accommodations such as the Days Hotel by Wyndham Iloilo and the Microtel by Wyndham Boracay.

3. Phuket, Thailand

Image credit: Arek Socha

When you think about beach holidays, Phuket is definitely one of the first destinations that come to mind. Sprawl on the glistening sand of Patong Beach or take a dip in the azure waters. Instead of hitting up nightclubs in the evening, check out Phuket FantaSea. The cultural theme park offers elephant shows, shopping and Asia’s largest buffet restaurant!

Image credit: Didier Baertschiger

If you have the time, a day trip to one of the many islands near Phuket is a must! We recommend checking out Coral Island, a quick 15 minutes away on speedboat. While it offers the usual water activities such as parasailing, the biggest highlight of this visit would be getting away from the crowds on Phuket, and almost having the entire stretch of pristine beach to yourself. Bring a picnic basket and mat!

Image credit: Flying Hanuman Phuket

Other than the sun, sea and sand, Phuket is also home to luxuriant tropical forests. The best way to enjoy this other side of Phuket is by an invigorating zipline experience at Flying Hanuman Phuket! Round up your Thailand trip by paying a visit to Thailand’s national animals at the ethical Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket. You can even get up close and personal with these gentle giants!

Image credit: Wyndham Sea Pearl Resort Phuket

Then, treat yourself to a good night’s sleep at Wyndham Sea Pearl Resort Phuket. Nestled within lush tropical landscapes, noise from nearby Patong gets muffled; all that serenades you will be the gentle sounds of nature. Reach the pinnacle of relaxation and let your worries melt away with the resort’s full-service spa. Wake up to stunning sea or pool views from the wooden deck terrace. If you want a feel of the high life, treat yourself and upgrade to a suite with an infinity pool! When you’re ready to rejoin the party, Wyndham Sea Pearl Resort Phuket is within easy access to Patong Beach, Paradise Beach and Bangla Road.

Address: 12 Prabaramee Road Patong Beach Phuket, 83150 TH
Phone: +66 76 303500

Explore other Wyndham accommodations on the island of Phuket such as Ramada by Wyndham Phuket South Sea and Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay

4. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Image credit: Pexels

Kuala Lumpur is famous for its iconic skyscrapers and rich culture. Visit the Petronas Twin Towers, the world’s tallest twin skyscrapers, where you can take in a bird’s eye view of the city from its observation deck on the 86th floor. If you can’t get enough of the gorgeous city views, feast on a three-course meal at Dinner In The Sky Kuala Lumpur while being suspended 50 meters off the ground! Now that’s how you rise to the occasion. When you’re back down on land, head over to KLCC Park and watch the wonderful Lake Symphony fountain shows.

Image credit: Dennis Sylvester Hurd

While being a modern metropolis, Kuala Lumpur still embraces its past. Marvel at the unique architecture of Jamek Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Kuala Lumpur. Its architecture has a combination of Moorish, Islamic and Magul influences. The colourful Batu Caves, which is over 400 million years old, is also another must-see attraction.

Image credit: Breakfast Thieves

For a dose of everything hip and delicious, Bangsar is the place to be. Teeming with trendy food establishments, it is impossible to go hungry here. Since it is also the unofficial cafe capital of Kuala Lumpur, there are also plenty of places to get coffee and a snap or two for the ‘gram. Breakfast Thieves, with its wood and glass facade, is a good place to start your Bangsar excursion at.

Image credit: Days Hotel and Suites by Wyndham Business Park Kuala Lumpur

After a day of exploring, wind down at Days Hotel and Suites by Wyndham Fraser Business Park Kuala Lumpur. Grab a light bite or sit down for a meal at one of the hotel’s three eateries in the hotel, namely Atrium Garden Café, Days Deli and The Atrium @ 8 Lounge Bar, before you head to your comfortable room. Located within walking distance of the Chan Sow Lin rapid transit station, you have easy access to any destination in Kuala Lumpur. The hotel is also a 10-minute drive to Bukit Bintang district, the city’s shopping, fashion and entertainment epicentre.

Address: Kompleks Metro Pudu 1 Jalan Metro Pudu 2 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 55200
Phone: +60 3 92327888

If you’re looking to venture into other states of Malaysia, consider other Wyndham accommodations such as the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Melaka and the Ramada by Wyndham Meridin Johor Bahru Malaysia.

5. Singapore

Image credit: Sasin Tipchai

From world-class attractions to cultural landmarks, there is something for everyone in Singapore. Take a scenic walk around the Marina Bay area, where you can see iconic attractions such as Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Flyer. You also must head down to the island of Sentosa, home to Southeast Asia’s first and only Universal Studios theme park!

Image credit: Zervas

To experience Singapore’s Indian, Malay and Chinese local culture, walk down the vibrant streets of Little India, Kampung Glam or Chinatown, which are all located close to one another. While immersing yourself in local culture, don’t forget to taste the tantalizing food from different ethnicities in a local hawker centre setting at Lau Pa Sat.

Image credit: Thanakorn Lao

One simply does not go to Singapore and not do some shopping! Apart from the glam and glitz of Orchard Road where luxury boutiques are a dime a dozen, there are also other shopping enclaves such as Tiong Bahru and Haji Lane, the latter which ticks all the boxes for the trigger-happy trendsetter: Colourful shop fronts? Check! Street art? Check! Cafes? Check!

Image credit: Days Hotel by Wyndham Singapore Zhongshan Park

Need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city? Settle down at Days Hotel by Wyndham Singapore Zhongshan Park, the hotel-by-the-park development that allows you to enjoy the tranquillity of Zhongshan Park just beside the hotel. The rooms in the hotel are decorated vibrantly for a refreshing stay. Enjoy Mediterranean and local Asian cuisines at the colourful 21 On Rajah restaurant, located near the hotel, before starting your day. With your tummies full, hop on the hotel’s shuttle bus services to Novena, Little India or Orchard to explore more of the city.

Address: 1 Jalan Rajah Singapore, Singapore 329133
Phone: +65 6808 6868

Looking for an alternative accommodation that’s also next to verdant surroundings? Do consider Ramada by Wyndham Singapore at Zhongshan Park, which is located right next to Days Hotel!

Image credit: Ramada Resort by Wyndham Golden Beach

Go forth and discover the beauty and diversity of SEA for yourself this year with the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Super Vacation Sale! Interested in travelling to other countries such as Australia, Fiji, Guam, New Zealand or South Korea? Head on over to Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to find the right hotel for you anywhere on the globe.

About Author

Sara Amira
Sara Amira

Sara’s passions in life are travelling, writing and eating. When she’s not in a window seat of a plane, she’s either cafe-hunting or exploring new neighbourhoods

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