Once again, Travel + Leisure has released their survey on the Asia's Best Awards 2022. Naturally, the 10 Best Islands in Southeast Asia to Visit and Explore are on the list this time.
Which one do you prefer?
1. Phuket, Thailand
The most well-known island in the Andaman Sea served as the site of the first Sandbox program in the area, which allowed travelers with the necessary vaccinations to enjoy a more lenient version of quarantine. As a result, the location off the southwest coast of Thailand provided travelers with a viable escape for months when other tropical destinations were either closed to travelers or difficult to reach.
If you're looking for uber-luxury, a beach club party vibe, local hipster, family-friendly, or yoga and detox, Phuket has a wide range of neighborhoods in addition to the postcard-perfect stretches of sand and the bustle of Patong. On Thailand's largest island, there are a variety of interesting lodging options, outdoor pursuits, and tourist sites to discover. Spend a day away from the beach exploring the vibrant restaurants and picturesque Sino-Portuguese architecture.
2. Koh Samui, Thailand
Because of its immaculate beaches and relaxed holiday vibe, Koh Samui has over time earned a reputation among tourists. After Phuket and Koh Chang, Samui is the third-largest island in Thailand. There are several beaches and bays to select from there.
The best months to visit Koh Samui are late December through early April. From December to the end of April, the island experiences comfortable warm temperatures that gradually increase. It's a perfect time to visit the beach and participate in outdoor activities like cycling or watersports because there isn't much rain or humidity right now.
3. Bali, Indonesia
Out of Indonesia's more than 17,000 islands, Bali continues to lead the pack in terms of tourism. Although there are several other tropical vacation spots, millions of travelers choose this interesting island every year.
Bali is far more gorgeous than it appears to be. There are numerous ancient cultural practices still carried out on the island. Curious foreigners can attend several events and festivals held by the Balinese throughout the year, such as the Omed-Omedan kissing festival and the monster procession preceding the day of silence (Nyepi). Bali's culture is also accessible to visitors through its music, dancing, and architecture.
4. Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Phu Quoc is a popular tourist destination with hotels and bars nowadays, but with good cause. It is certainly a perfect vacation for tourists from all over the world, hidden in the heart of Cambodia and only 61 kilometers from the nearest Vietnamese coastline.
The island is a good place to get away from the busy atmosphere of urban Vietnam. More than 10 beaches, including Long beach (Bai Dai) and Star beach (Bai Sao), which are considered to be the most charming, can be found on the 28 small islets and islands that make up Phu Quoc. Consider visiting Mui Ong Doi beach, May Rut Islet, or Ganh Dau beach if you want to go to a beach where there aren't as many people.
We cannot discuss a beach holiday without mentioning water sports. One of the best reasons to go to Phu Quoc is to participate in thrilling and enjoyable activities like kitesurfing, kayaking, and jet skiing at Bai Dai and Bai Sao, in addition to swimming.
5. Langkawi, Malaysia
An archipelago of more than 100 islands situated in the clear waters of the Andaman Sea about 30 km off the west coast of Malaysia's main island. This is the desired Langkawi group of islands, also known as Kedah's Jewel. And tourists of all kinds, including those who enjoy the outdoors, learning about history, seeking adventure, and even hopeless romantics, are sure to find something that suits their interests among the countless Langkawi islands.
The main island of Langkawi itself is renowned for offering fantastic diving possibilities. But there's more! From a sizable Underwater World along the Pantai Cenang to the lofty Cable Car at Pantai Kok, Langkawi never ceases to surprise visitors with a fresh thrill.
Source: TravelAndLeisureAsia.com, Vietnam-Visa.com, TravelTriangle.com, BambooTravel.co.uk, TheCultureTrip.com