If you're travelling every other day, you're travelling too much. Less is more. Stick this mantra on the top of your computer screen. Less is more This is often a difficult concept to impress upon first-time travellers to the region, but you really are far better off seeing fewer places for a longer stretch than many places for shorter individual stretches. Southeast Asia does not lend itself to quick-hopping tourism; getting between destinations can be time consuming. While it is true that every destination is different and possesses its own set of charms, particularly on shorter trips it makes sense to be choosey. Every time you pack up and move is a day that you could have used to chill at the beach or see a sought-after sight. This is especially the case with islands. If you're in Thai

By and large, with the application of some common sense, Southeast Asia is a safe region for travel. It isn't perfect though. Here's what to keep in mind to up the chances of a trouble-free trip. Burma Southwestern Burma, along the border with Bangladesh, as of 2017 is the site of what most people consider to be a genocide occurring against the Rohingya people, some half of a million of whom have fled to Bangladesh. Keep abreast of regional news and developments. Generally if an area is off limits, tourists will not be able to travel there. Fighting continues between regional armies and the state army in parts of Shan State in Burma's north. Foreign tourists have been recently (in 2016) injured by landmines in the same state. Travel to Kalaw and Hsipaw is considered safe, but travellers sh

Ancient ruins While today the borders of Southeast Asia are relatively clear-cut, historically they were somewhat more flowing, as power shifted from one empire to another. These shifts can be explored by incorporating visits to some of the stunning historical monuments that dot the region while on your trip--serious history lovers sometimes plan their entire trips around attractions like Bagan, Angkor Wat, Borobudur and Wat Phu, among others. Cambodia The maritime trading empire of Funan was dominant in this region for around the first six centuries CE, with trading links to China and India. Funan was located in southeastern Cambodia and the Mekong Delta with its main port corresponding to the present-day ruins at Oc Eo in Vietnam's An Giang province. The capital Vyadhapura is considered

South East Asia has plenty of kid-friendly destinations, with loads of pretty and safe beaches, fun activities and lovely natural attractions. We've selected a few of our favourites below, but plenty more are around. Almost anywhere you head in the region will be adaptable for kids, particularly if they're slightly older, and you'll find people, from your guesthouse or hotel staff to locals on the street, highly obliging when it comes to helping out with children. Vietnam Vietnam's World Heritage-listed Hoi An is a stunning historical port town with plenty to do. Take an eco-tour to visit Cham Island , check out Tra Que veggie farm to prove to your kids that veggies don't come wrapped in plastic and hire some bikes and head out to the nearby beaches. Budding chefs can take a cooking class-

Beaches and islands One of the top appeals of Southeast Asia are its excellent array of islands and beaches. Where should a beach bum head? Vietnam Vietnam is no slouch on the beach and island front, though the country's best known island, Phu Quoc , is reeling under the weight of vast and fast development. Other nearby islands show promise for independent travellers, but the Vietnamese government's on-again, off-again attitude towards access complicates the matter. A short flight from Ho Chi Minh City lie the Con Dao Islands , which are growing in popularity and have much to offer. Up the coast, Cham Island out from Hoi An remains a popular destination both for its beaches and diving. Vietnam's mainland beaches, like Indonesia's, are often working beaches first and trash can be a big prob

All the countries in Southeast Asia have established art scenes, but each have a few destinations that really stand out, and they can form a highlight for culture-vultures. Some of these towns, especially those with UNESCO World Heritage listing, may have a certain Disneyland-esque feel to them, thanks to gentrification: Boutique hotels and cafes have moved in as the residents have moved out, but the appeal still remains. We'd rather have this as the price to pay for the heritage listing than have had the charming buildings all demolished for gleaming glass and brass. In high season, some of these towns can be extremely busy with tourists. A trio of World Heritage favourites are Luang Prabang in Laos, Hoi An in Vietnam and Georgetown in Malaysia. All three boast excellent colonial and trad

Southeast Asia offers some of the most spectacular diving in the world. The region traverses where the Indian and Pacific oceans meet, with much of its eastern reaches encapsulated by the stunning and largely pristine Coral Triangle. Divers can undertake a wide variety of dives and there are sites that will impress, and are suited to, all skill levels. Costs by international standards are very reasonable, though those looking for more creature comforts can spend more if they'd like to--fancypants liveaboards can be world class. Learning to dive If you're looking at getting underwater for the first time, Southeast Asia is a great place to learn. Introductory PADI and SSI courses are offered in loads of locations and you'll most likely be able to step into a course shortly after arrival. Pop