If exploring the unknown fuels your wanderlust, secret getaways, and hidden gems are definitely more of your thing. It’s fair to say that the most exciting and inspiring experiences are the ones that aren’t found on travel books.

Whether you have Hua Hin on your mind or Sapa in your must-visit destination, there are plenty of secret Southeast Asian getaways you can explore. Just remember to keep this secret between the two of us.

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1. Hua Hin, Thailand

Hua Hin is so fascinating that you will fall in love easily with this destination.  While some say that Hua Hin is the place where the city mingles with the sea, we prefer to call this city an exciting secret that is home to bustling markets, delectable Thai food, and cosmopolitan vibe. Its close proximity to other secret hideaways such as Cha-Am, Pranburi, and Khao Takiab also makes it a win-win.

 

2. Sapa, Vietnam

Travel guides might sway you to the popular cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, but we encourage you to take the road less taken and go to Sapa instead. Trekking amid a landscape of terraced rice fields is what everyone loves to do here. The mountainous surrounding will also soothe your heart and soul, so leave your emotional baggage at home.

 

3. Luang Prabang, Laos

If you ever need a reason to visit Laos, come to Luang Prabang and stay for their charm and culture. Situated on the northern side of Laos, this secret getaway has plenty of historical landmarks that will entice anyone who appreciates architecture. When you’re here, swing by the Golden City Temple, Old Quarter and the Royal Palace Museum.

 

4. Bagan, Myanmar

For those who find Angkor Wat in Cambodia to be touristy, we recommend that you visit the beautiful Bagan in Myanmar. Dubbed as the ancient capital of Myanmar, there are over 2,000 Buddhist monuments scattered across the vast landscape. Our favourite thing to do is to catch the sunrise that momentarily clouds the entire field with a shade of orange.

 

5. Kundasang, Malaysia

If you’re looking for a secret getaway that is close to home, our travel compass points towards Kundasang in Sabah. Everyone calls it the ‘New Zealand of Malaysia’ and for good reason, which is their cool mountainous landscape. Do spend a few hours at the Desa Cattle Dairy Farm that cares for the Friesian cattle that grazes the grassy field. The Dairy Farm even serves delicious ice cream and fresh milk too.

 

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Header credits: @malaysia.now & @andrejakobsson7