My Favourite Towns & Cities from Each Country in South Asia where I would like to live.

 

When you’re over a thousand miles away from home it can be difficult to feel comfortable in new environments.

 Not knowing the language, the landmarks, the people, where to eat or what to do can quickly become overwhelming. In these moments it is easy to feel home sick and wish you were back to where you think you belong.

I certainly felt that a few times when I travelled South East Asia with Stray and even contemplated going back to England early.

However, I was lucky enough to across some beautiful towns and cities that put me to ease and made me feel right at home.

These places will always be special to me as I felt like I made a connection with them, and if I could have it my way these are 5 towns and cities where I would like to live.

1.      Bangkok – Thailand

This behemoth of a city often receives a bad reputation, undeservedly in my opinion. Often perceived as loud and chaotic, my experience of the capital city of Thailand was very different.

This was my first city when embarking on my Stray Travel adventure and my first taste of the Asian continent.

Immediately I fell in love with the street food, the stunning temple complex of Wat Pho, and the eclectic mix of people exploring this wonderful city.

In fact, I loved Bangkok so much I decided to go back for a few days after I completed my hop-on-hop-off tour with Stray Travel.

Even if I lived in Bangkok for several years I believe there would still be new places visit and things to see, so justly earns a place on this list.

2.      Don Det – Laos

Situated in the Mekong and contributing as one of the 4000 islands Don Det is a bohemian haven, which comes as a refreshing alternative to many of the busy built-up areas of South East Asia.

Barely even a single car in sight wherever you go, this small island offers you a rare opportunity most places are unable… to simply relax. It comes as no surprise that Don Det is a common hop-off place for many Stray Asia travellers.

The modern fast paced world of the 21^st century has seemingly been unable to have a noticeable effect on this gem of a town.

With the majestic Mekong surrounding the island, there’s plenty of places to go for a quick swim or boat ride.

What makes this place even more special is, because of the lack of tall building, fog and light pollution, the stars prove to be more visible hence seemingly more beautiful and opulent.

If you’re convinced of visiting this hideaway, then see this list of things to do whilst you’re there things-to-do-in-don-det.

3.      Hoi An – Vietnam

There are many places in Vietnam that I would like to live but if I had to pick one it’s Hoi An.

Sitting on the eastern coast of Vietnam, roughly halfway between the north and the south, this beautiful coastal town is steeped with intriguing buildings steeped with history as well as a stunning canal filled with market boats.

The way the streets are lit up with lanterns at night is truly a remarkable sight, and one that would be difficult to get bored of.

The centrepiece of this ancient town is the Japanese Covered Bridge, which is adjoined to small temple on the north end. It must see when exploring this enchanting town.

4.      Siem Reap – Cambodia

 

There is no doubt in my mind when selecting Siem Reap as my City to live in Cambodia for one very special reason, its proximity to the ancient site and UNESCO heritage site of Angkor Wat.

For Stray travellers this is an exciting checkpoint to reach as most have tickets to Angkor Wat pre-booked by Stray Travel, and a quick 12 minute drive from Siem Reap is all it takes.

The experience comes as highly recommended, is built up to be a marvellous experience, and from my personal experience it did not let down.

The city of Siem Reap itself is worthy of a visit though. You won’t go short of beautiful sights, the typical Asian vibrancy and bars and restaurants to visit in the evening.

Housing multiple hostels and hotels, which are commonly frequented by Stray travellers, Siem Reap has been westernised more than most other areas in Cambodia which makes daily life more familiar.

To visit the towns and cities on my list email Stray Asia using their contact form https://blog.straytravel.com/contact-us/ and they will answer any questions you may have.