Phuket Thailand and Kuta in Bali were some of the destinations sought after for many years on Southeast Asian travel bucket lists. Nowadays, however, many travellers are stuck in lengthy traffic jams, overcrowded beaches and the touristy yet commercial, feel-good attractions.
This “Silent Travel” trend, also dubbed “Raw Geography,” is an invitation to explorers to explore beyond throngs of tourists and traditional tourist attractions. These unoccupied places are soon becoming the region’s hottest getaways, from islands that sleuth skeletons discover long before the rest of the world to slip in between the clouds, to mountains blanketed in fog.
You can find four spots that are gaining popularity among the TikTok generation that are not in Southeast Asia to get on a fully-crowded tour bus and have a great time.
Koh Kood, Thailand
Koh Kood is a quiet island, close to the Cambodian border with an abundance of nature splendidly maintained by the strict implementation of measures to limit large scale tourism development.
Phuket’s side are blocks of towering buildings, vibrant nightlife districts and a fleet of cruising jet skis roaring the waves to the backs of hotel buildings. Rather, Koh Kood boasts pure and clean waters, quiet beaches and lush tropical forest, all of which seem far removed from the hustle and bustle of human activity.
Soft white sand soaks up the sun and calms the waters of Klong Chao beach, the island’s flagship. Inland visits to hidden waterfalls like Huang Nam Keaw are also undertaken, surrounded by verdant rainforest.
Visitors looking to unwind and relax will find Koh Kood offers true island tranquility which is hardly found among the other Southeast Asian islands.
Da Nang, Vietnam
Da Nang has traditionally been a tourist hotspot, well-known for tourist beaches. The mesmerizing and captivating part of the trip takes on the rugged coast, heading towards the legendary Hai Van Pass, and the Son Tra Peninsula.
This is a spectacular and spectacular area as emerald mountains drop in the sea directly. Curved streets offer up lone coves, fishing villages and panoramic vantage points that have few tourists visiting them.
This is partly because of one of the most hidden beaches, called Bai Chuoi, which is quite difficult to access, yet has beautiful scenery and hardly any people. All along, though, the Hai Van Pass offers some of the most stunning Southeast vistas imaginable.
This area is a favorite of road-trippers and photographers alike, and is an ideal combination of adventure and natural beauty.
Kuta town, Bali
Although Bali is one of the world’s most visited holiday destinations, it seems like more and more visitors are now hoisting the crowded vibe around Kuta and visiting Canggu for its quieter vibe to visit Uluwatu.
Faced opposing cliffs on the south side of Bali, Uluwatu is an experience on a completely different level. Huge limestone structures gaze down at the ocean of the Indian Ocean, and produce the most wonderful vistas on the island.
With many hidden beaches, steep footpaths and pathways to caves Kuta Town is becoming a popular destination for international tourists. Thomas Beach, Uluwatu Beach and other beaches offer a less touristy option than the tourist hot spots in Bali.
The County’s reputation for surf culture, its gorgeous sunsets and its spectacular higher elevated views have made Uluwatu one of the quickest growing tourist spots for those looking for a more tranquil Bali vacation.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai’s highlands are a popular destination for travellers who value serene nature and are very much in-sync with the online trend in nature hikes, popularized by the app TikTok’s “Mountain Calm” initiative.
Rocks, mountains, moisture and grass greet his or her arrival, rather than beaches and humidity. The area is truly an escape that’s all about wellness, hiking and culture.
Mae Kampong, a beautiful mountain village with its traditional life and coffee culture is a popular tourist spot. Nature enthusiasts also venture to Thailand’s highest point at Doi Inthanon National Park with great forest views.
Chiang Mai can give tranquillity which few crowded beach destinations can offer, when it comes to its detach-ability from all screens and its ability to provide a different experience for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore the wonders of the natural world that don’t involve a screen.
FAQs
What is the best alternate place to Phuket?
Koh Kood is regarded as one of the best ways to escape the frenzy without compromising on stunning beaches, strict conservation laws and serene sleeping environment.
Does Kuta have more visitors than Uluwatu?
Yes. Compared to Kuta, Uluwatu is less crowded and offers a more relaxed and laid-back ambiance with easily accessible areas around the cliffs, natural beauty, and surfing.
Is Da Nang good for backpackers?
Yes. Da Nang and the surrounding coastal region are safe and have a decent amount of people who enjoy taking solo trips to take photographs, drive a motor bike and enjoy the outside.
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