Get a comprehensive insight into Southeast Asia. How to do this, you may ask? One such method is to visit its capitals. Not only is it a great way to experience each country’s culture but you’ll also get to live it up in each country’s biggest cities and most yearned sites. So, pack up and bring yourself to some of Southeast Asia’s capitals, both present and past.

First, we’ll jet you off to Bangkok, the hub for your Southeast Asia travel adventure. It is also a great place to start as the city is one of the world’s great metros, combining tall shimmering skyscrapers and glittering temples. You’ll visit the country’s most famous structures at the Grand Palace, a network of temples and traditional buildings which serves as the official residences of the Royal Family since the 18^th century. Nearby Wat Pho, the birthplace of traditional Thai massage and home of a large reclining Buddha image will also be visited. The city is also open for recreational time. Be sure to enjoy Bangkok at leisure as well.

Prepare for a complete change of scenery! Let the laid back Lao atmosphere soothe you at Luang Prabang, Laos’ former capital. This UNESCO Heritage Town is known for its beautiful mix of temples, colonial structures, tree-lined streets and overall cleanliness. See it all on Phousi Hill during sunset before individually inspecting the town yourself. Yes, Luang Prabang feels more like a town than a city. While here, you’ll have the opportunity to cruise the Mekong and experience the Buddha-filled caves of Pak Ou and the majestic falls of Kuang Si.

From past to present, head to Vientiane, the current capital of Laos. Again, another town-like Lao city with the renowned Lao laid-backness sprinkled in. Stroll along the river and just soothe in the environment. Learn about the city’s history at the famed temples of Wat Sisaket and That Luang as well as through the capital’s quiet neighborhoods and local markets. You’ll also partake in a special Lao ceremony called the baci, which is deeply rooted in Lao history and culture (it was around even before Buddhism arrived in the country), giving you luck on your travels.

From capital to capital, you fly onwards to Phnom Penh for the Cambodian section of your Southeast Asia tour. Once called the Pearl of the East, you will venture through the tree-lined streets, explore temples and visit the Royal Palace, Wat Phnom and the National Museum.

A Cambodia trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Siem Reap and its Angkor temples. Yes, in case you were wondering, this is where Angkor Wat is. But this is just one many temples you’ll see. Some are even covered in jungle, just like how explorers first saw them. Vary your touring experience a little bit with an optional helicopter flight over Angkor Thom. We promise a spectacular and breathtaking experience.

So, now you know a lot more about Southeast Asia with a tour through some of its current and past capitals. If you can’t get enough of the region, check out our multi-country tours page. You can always contact us if you need questions or further assistance.

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