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These are some of the most instagrammable places worldwide that showcase Southeast Asia's stunning diversity. From ancient temples to tropical beaches, these 10 photography hotspots offer picture-perfect moments that capture millions of likes and showcase the region's natural beauty.
South East Asia is a paradise, it's as simple as that. If you're looking for a destination that will tick every box on your never-ending list. South East Asia is it. Whether you're the ultimate Insta influencer with 5 million followers or you're just looking to snap some shots to show the grandkids. We've got you. We've rounded up the best destinations to visit to get the ultimate 100+ likes on ya pics. IF YOU DIDN'T POST IT, IT DIDN'T HAPPEN, RIGHT?
10. Halong Bay, Vietnam - The natural UNESCO beauty
First up to the East of Hanoi, in the north of Vietnam, lies Halong Bay. Halong BAE. We like to call it. If you haven't been, book your flight now. A UNESCO World Heritage Site which is more beautiful than a young Leonardo DiCaprio holding a puppy. Take the exhilarating trek up to Bai Tho and Titop mountain to get your snap, and the likes will be rolling in faster than the sweat dripping down your face. An absolute must-visit.
Best time to visit Halong Bay?
October-April. Vietnam is FULL of micro-climates, so there's never really a bad time to go, but if you fancy a good chance of clear skys and dry weather October-April is a good time to!
Top Tips for visiting Halong Bay:
1. Make sure you book an overnight cruise! That way, you can get sunrise and sunset shots.
2. If you can, bring a drone! Or even better - befriend someone on the boat who has one!
3. Be aware of the Vietnam National holidays, as the area will be super busy during this time.
NO.9 UBUD, BALI - Rice Terraces and Jungle Swings
Next up. Ubud! Bali, It has to be on your bucket list. Bali is well known for its beauty, head to the rice terraces, look out until the distance and pretend someone isn't taking your photo. BOOM you've got it. Caption 'RICE, RICE BABY ;) ' You're welcome.If you've got a little more adrenaline in your blood swing away on the famous Bali Swing. Filming content whilst feeling content. What a combo.
Best time to visit Ubud?
April to October will give you the best chance of great weather and lush green fields!
Top tips when visiting the rice terraces:
1. Get there early to avoid the crowds and to get the best lighting for photos
2. If you fancy it, wear an outfit that's going to look super flowing in the wind, we'd suggest floating skirts/dress or even Harlem pants look cool!
3. Remember, most of the terraces are still working farms, so make sure to respect the paths and be friendly to the farmers.
NO.8 KOH TAO, THAILAND - Sunset Paradise
Forget about the busy backpacker streets full of travellers off their face, Thailand has got plenty of Insta hotspots. One of our favourites is Koh Tao so make sure you head there if you really wanna really spark up your feed. Found in the Southwest of Thailand, there is so much more to Koh Tao than just a popular diving destination. Take a sunset stroll along the beach (stop off at a few beach bars cos why not), and you might be lucky to get that golden shot. Insta GOALS!
Best time to visit Koh Tao?
December to April. This is the dry season, and this time of year will give you the best chance of clear seas and 10/10 photos.
Top tips for visiting Koh Tao:
1. The John-Suwan Viewpoint has the most amazing views over the island - it only takes about 20 minutes to climb.
2. Make sure you have good comfy shoes for the hiking around this island, you don't want blisters ruining your fun!
NO.7 ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP - The ultimate sunrise spot!
Travelling in Cambodia is like stepping back in time, thanks to the insane ancient history that fills the country. In particular, Angkor Wat temple which has to be one of the TOP places to capture those snaps on your adventure here, prepare for lots of envious friends. It's even better when you head there for sunrise so make sure you don't have too much of a heavy one the night before cos it is so worth it. Unless you can handle your hangovers of course, then you do you boo. If you are not an early riser then don't worry as the sunset is just as impressive.
Best time to visit Angkor Wat?
November to February. It is cooler and quieter and you'll have more fun exploring all the temples within the complex as a result.
Top tips for visiting Angkor Wat:
1. Go as early as you can; it gets super busy, and if you go early, you will be able to get the perfect Insta shot!
2. Hire a local tuk-tuk driver to get around the temples fast, learn about their culture and the cool stories they will have about the temples.
3. Remember to dress correctly. Cover your knees and shoulders!
NO.6 ELLA, SRI LANKA - A mountainous paradise
Sri Lanka is one dreamy destination with its fair share of Insta hot spots, but this one, in particular, is one of our favourites. Ella is home to 'the most scenic train journey' in Sri Lanka, and we can confirm, they are right. All aboard the blue train! The journey is 7 hours from Kandy to Ella, going through lush tea plantations, rice fields and endless mountain views, how tea-riffic (see what we did there)! So make sure your cameras are all charged up and you're ready to be papped because you'll definitely want these on the 'gram, trust us, there are SO many photo opportunities. Your friends and fam are for sure going to be envious. Make sure you take in these unreal views because although 7 hours sounds like a long while, ya know, time flies when your having fun.
Best time to visit Ella in Sri Lanka?
January to March. This time of year, there are clearer skies, less rain and smaller crowds.
Top tips for visiting Ella:
1. Wait at the Nine Arch Bridge until you see a train cross!
2. Hike Little Adam's Peak in the morning or evening to get the best shots!
3. Visit a local tea plantation to try the best tea ever and get some cute candid shots in the fields.
NO.5 PADAR, INDONESIA - The most epic Indonesian view
Another one of our top 10 Instagram-worthy hotspots is Padar viewpoint in Indonesia. Boyyyy it's a real show-stopper to brighten up your news feed. Head off the beaten track in Indonesia to get a slightly different experience than just your everyday classic traveller to find this impressive view. It's a bit more difficult to get to, but the bumpy boat rides and sweaty walks will be WELL worth it when you get there. Go on, treat yo' self to a well-deserved beer afterwards.
NO.4 HOI AN, VIETNAM - Lanterns for days
Hoi An is nothing but a cute and colourful little town with SO much character to it. Try not to get too tipsy on the local rice wine while you're here so you can take a cycle ride around the streets cos we can't promise we won't laugh if you fall. Line your stomach with some of the local street food, and then you can get back on the drinks again. It's also quite fun to get your very own tailor-made suit or to have a traditional lantern-making class if you're feelin' like doing something a bit different. Oh, and if you hadn't guessed, it's a great place to snap up some colourful pics too (duh!).
Best time to visit Hoi An?
Vietnam is great all year round, but February-April would be our top pick for a trip there due to the cooler weather and dryer skies.
Top tips for visiting Hoi An:
1. Go for a walk and a boat ride along the river at night
2. Make sure to get some clothes tailored whilst in Vietnam
NO.3 KOH RONG SAMLOEM, CAMBODIA - Sandy paradise
IMAGINE waking up to the sound of waves on your own private beach and spending your days swinging in sea hammocks. Sounds bliss, right? Get yourself to Koh Rong in Cambodia and you will honestly feel like you are in paradise. Home is where the hammock is, ya know! The seawater is so clear if you opened your eyes underwater you'd be able to perfectly see the colourful fish everywhere, and the surrounding white sandy beaches will make your photography skills look like you're a professional. well, you can at least pretend, hey. Relax on the swings in the sea and sip on ice-cold cocktails and enjoy yooo self.
Best time to visit Koh Rong?
June to September. This is during the dry season and is a great time for clear snorkelling pics!
Top tips for visiting Koh Rong Samloem:
1. Power is limited here, so make sure to pack power banks when coming here.
2. Bring mosquito repellent!
3. If you get a chance, head out for a boat ride with the bioluminescent plankton!
NO.2 GILI TRAWANGAN, INDONESIA - Where party meets beauty
We all know of the famous swing pics right? Well, this is where that all started.. in Gili T! An incredible island that is basically paradise. Crystal clear blue waters, sunny skies, sandy beaches and get this.. the island has no motorised vehicles! We told you it is paradise. Anyway, when at Gili T, you cannot leave without taking a pic on the swings for the 'gram. It's a must! So get yourself up on those swings, practice your poses and make sure the cameras are at the ready! Your insta is waiting to be spammed with Gili T swing pics. Go on!
Best time of year to visit Gili T:
June to September. This time period has less rain, great weather and fewer crowds!
Top tips for visiting Gili T:
1. Grab a bike and cycle all around the island - there are no cars here so it's the best way to get around
2. Get up early and go snorkelling with the turtles!
3. Head for a movie on the beach in the evening.
NO.1 KAWASAN WATERFALLS, PHILIPPINES - Asia's underrated gem
For the first time canyoners and waterfall lovers, the Kawasan Falls will be just up your street. Located in Badian, the falls are home to 3 natural waterfalls, which are found within a luscious green jungle. At 65 feet tall, canyoneering here is not for the faint-hearted, but if you’ve always wanted to cure your fear of heights, there’s no better way to do it. Or if you're like Aggie, pop on your swimsuit and hang out in the trees. Anything goes!
Best time to visit Kawasan Falls in the Philippines?
December to May. The weather is great this time of the year, as it is during the dry season.
Top tips for visiting Kawasan Falls in the Philippines:
1. Make sure you are booked on a tour when going canyoneering! It is the best way to explore safely, get great shots and have fun!
2. Go out early for the best photos and fewer photobombers
3. If you have room - pack aqua shoes or hire them from the tour company - rocks are slippery!
For more inspo on how you can brighten up your Instagram feed, check out our Instagram and prepare to get a real urge to jet away to paradise.
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