Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is one of the most established backpacking regions in the world, with hostels in almost every traveller hub from Bangkok and Hanoi to Bali and Palawan.

For decades Southeast Asia has been where many people take their first long trip. Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam link up into a mainland circuit of temples, mountain towns and coastline, while Indonesia and the Philippines add volcanoes, rice terraces and island hopping. Distances can be long, but overnight trains and buses, ferries and short regional flights make it practical to move on every few days.

Hostels here range from simple guesthouse-style dorms to purpose-built social hostels with pools, bars and organised trips. That variety means it is worth reading listings closely: two hostels in the same street can feel completely different, one built around nightlife and the other around quiet hammocks and early starts.

Why stay in hostels in Southeast Asia?

• Traveller hubs such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hanoi and Bali have a wide choice of dorms and private rooms.
• Many hostels run tour desks that help arrange buses, ferries, treks and day trips.
• Shared common areas make it easy to find people heading the same way on the circuit.
• Private rooms in hostels are a useful middle ground for couples or anyone wanting a few nights of privacy.