However, before you go, there are a few things to consider. Whether you are wandering the temples of Nepal or kicking back in Thailand.

Here are 6 Important Things You Should Do Before Backpacking Across Asia.

1. Research the Weather

Asia is a vast and vastly underestimated landscape. The difference between the Indian Himalayas and Thai sandy beaches can be huge, so always check the temperature before you go. Remember that countries located near to the equator may not have hot versus cold seasons like you are used to, but rather wet versus dry. Research the weather conditions and pack accordingly.

2. Pack Light

Southeast Asia comprises 11 countries clustered together. Combined with cheap transport and accommodation, staying in constant motion is an easy and exciting way to travel. However, for this, you must pack as lightly as possible. Although a relatively safe area of the world, only take valuable items which are absolutely essential in case anything is stolen.

3. Learn About the Different Cultures

Each region of Asia has a unique history and it is useful to understand the culture of the place you are visiting. You don’t need to be an expert, but knowing your Khmer from your Kadazan goes a long way. Be aware of the local religious culture, be it Muslim, Buddhist, or anything else. Being sensitive to this information will ensure you avoid any social faux pas. Being up to date on local laws will also help.

4. Check Visa Requirements

Unlike when traveling throughout the EU or USA, each new country you visit in Southeast Asia will have its own entry requirements. You may have the documents ready for Cambodia, but when you turn up at the Vietnamese border, do you have your passport photos ready?

5. Get Immunized

Much of Asia is covered in dense rainforest, which means there are disease-carrying insects. Some vaccinations are legally required for entry, but you may want to get a few more just to be safe. Pay your nurse a visit for the most up to date advice on what immunizations are recommended.

6. Don’t Plan or Worry Too Much

There is so much to explore in Asia, but don’t overplan. The best adventures you will have will involve discovering new, unbeaten paths. Enjoy the freedom of going with the flow. Be sensible and wary, but just enjoy the journey.

Researching a place beforehand will help you know what to pack and how to legally enter the country, but don’t over plan. Visiting Asia is a chance to relax, unwind and explore. Follow the simple advice above and you are bound to have life-changing adventure.

This article was written and contributed by Lucy Edmunds.

The post 6 Important Things You Should Do Before Backpacking Across Asia appeared first on Fun N' Taste.

When people talk about traveling to Thailand, they often think about 3 popular destinations – Phuket, Krabi and Bangkok. Personally we are not big fans of these 3 places as they are too mainstream and we prefer somewhere lesser known.

Hence we would like to share about Hua Hin, one of the most underrated travel destinations in Southeast Asia. Beautiful beaches, cultural heritage spots, stunning nature sites and delicious food, Hua Hin is a city every Malaysian should visit at least once.

Traveling to Hua Hin

One of the main reasons to visit Hua Hin is the cheap flight ticket. A one way flight from Kuala Lumpur to Hua Hin starts at only RM79, valid from May 18 2018 – Oct 26 2019. Click on this link to book your flight via AirAsia today

There is only one international airport in Hua Hin and it’s roughly 10 minutes away from the popular Anantara Hua Hin Resort.

Getting Around Hua Hin

There are only 2 forms of public transportation in Hua Hin – Taxi and Tuk Tuk. Based on our experience a taxi ride from Hua Hin Night Market to Anantara Hua Hin Resort (6KM) cost THB150. While Tuk Tuks may be perceived as a cheaper alternative, the rates are actually pretty similar.

Accommodation in Hua Hin

There are countless of hotels in Hua Hin with prices as low as RM85 per night. But to fully experience the joy of Hua Hin, staying at the “right” hotel/resort really matters.

Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa

Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa is inarguably the best place to stay in Hua Hin. This resort incorporates traditional Thai elements to its design while maintaining a luxurious experience. Hotel guest can enjoy everything from a private beach, stunning pool, yoga classes, Thai cooking class, fitness centre and more.

Room prices start from THB4,020 ++ (around RM500).

AVANI Hua Hin Resort & Villas

AVANI Hua Hin Resort & Villas is a fairly new resort which opened about 7 months ago. It features chic yet contemporary rooms with stunning beach and pool views. Some rooms even boast its own private pool. Other facilities includes spa, 24-hour fitness centre, multiple swimming pools, large kids’ club, beachside view, and more.

Room prices start from THB3,200 ++ (around RM398).

Things To Do

1# Santorini Park

Perhaps the most photogenic spot in this list, Santorini Park was built inspired by the island of Santorini in Greece. All the buildings in Santorini Park are painted in white and blue, which makes the perfect backdrop if you love photography and Instagramming.

There are also many other fun things to do here such as going on a Ferris Wheel Ride, Merry Go Round, Haunted House and more.

Cost: THB150 (around RM19)
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri, 9.30AM – 6.30PM, Sat-Sun, 9.00AM – 6.30PM
Address: Khao Yai, Cha-am District, Phetchaburi 76120, Thailand

2# Hua Hin Railway Station

At first we thought Hua Hin Railway Station was a place solely for photo and scenery. Turns out, it is an actual train station with real train to convey passengers from Hua Hin to major cities like Bangkok and Surat Thani.

First opened in 1911, the station has a Royal Waiting Room, a room that used to welcome King and his court when they were visiting the Hua Hin town. Overall, it’s a good place to unwind and take memorable pictures for your trip.

Cost: Free
Address: Hua Hin, Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand

3# Monsoon Valley Vineyard

(formerly known as Hua Hin Hills Vineyard)

This is the perfect place to enjoy a sophisticated steak meal with a glass of wine accompanied with a stunning view of mountains and greens. You can dine at the nearby Sala Wine Bar & Bistro which is owned by the Vineyard itself.

Opening Hours: Daily, 9.00AM – 8.00PM

4# Hua Hin International Jazz Festival

Hua Hin International Jazz Festival features everything from jazz performances to booze and irresistible street food. It’s a good place to have a sip of alcohol while enjoying live musical performance. It’s usually held by the ocean, so bring your beach chair or a blanket and enjoy the night.

Hua Hin International Festival is held 2 days annually so keep a look out for it in 2019.

Cost: Free

5# Hua Hin Beaches

One of the biggest reason one should visit Hua Hin is for its magnificent beaches. If you choose to stay in Anantara Hua Hin Resort, you’ll have the luxury to enjoy a private beach. Believe us when we say, the beaches here are truly amazing.

Not a fan of sunbathing? You can opt for other beach activities such as horse riding or kite flying.

Cost: Free

6# Phraya Nakhon Cave

Phraya Nakhon Cave is one of the few caves in Thailand that house a temple. Back then, King Rama IV used this cave to meditate and study Buddhism. Today the monks use this sanctuary as a place for meditation. To get to the cave, you can choose to hike over the hill or take a boat to reach Laem Sala Beach, which is where Phraya Nakhon Cave located.

Do note that this is a super exhausting activity. The uphill path leading to the cave is steep and rough. It is advisable to take the boat ride over to the beach to cut the time by half. Make sure you have enough water with you and be prepared to sweat and get down and dirty.

Cost: THB150 (around RM18) to rent a boat
Opening Hours: Daily, 8.00AM – 4.00PM

7# Chatsila Night Market

There are numbers of night markets scattered across Hua Hin. Chatsila Night Market is perfect for clothes, jewellery, and other souvenirs. We did not include any budget here as it will vary depending on individual tastes. If you really want to go on a shopping spree in Hua Hin, it is advisable to bring extra cash.

Opening Hours: 5.00PM – 11.00PM, Daily
Address: Hua Hin, Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand

8# Hua Hin Night Market

Hua Hin Night Market is home to lots of stalls that specializes in seafood, especially prawns and lobsters. The seafood stalls here are truly epic, filled with the freshest catch such as gigantic lobster, massive prawns, fish, almost all the possible seafood you could think of.

They also have pretty interesting souvenirs, I mean where in Malaysia could you find these masks?!

Address: Soi Hua Hin 72 Dechanuchit Road, Hua Hin 77110 Thailand

Of course this isn’t the COMPLETE guide to discover Hua Hin, as there are lots more things to do such as visiting Hua Hin Floating Market, Swiss Sheep Farm, Camel Republic and more. Nonetheless we hope this could be a useful first timer guide to Hua Hin.

Click on this link to book your tickets now on AirAsia

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Living in Malaysia, we’re spoiled for choice with many holiday destinations. Keep on reading through as we unveil the 7 secret island in Malaysia.

1. Pulau Sibu @ Johor

Pulau Sibu is one of the more popular islands located off the east coast of Johor. To get to this stunning island, you need to drive to Johor Bahru and drive ahead until Kota Tinggi. After about 45 minutes drive, you will arrive Tanjung Leman, which is the jetty for the boat to Pulau Sibu.

The beaches in Pulau Sibu has gently slopping beaches that are perfect for swimming. Aside from that, there are many coral reefs with perfectly clear water, ideal for family fun with activities such as snorkeling, diving, and volleyball.

2. Pulau Kapas @ Terengganu

Set in the South China Sea, this 2KM by 1KM island is a tiny beauty. Pulau Kapas literally means ‘Island Cotton’ and the name is derived from the white and soft sand beaches.

There are a variety of dive spots here, including a World War 2 shipwreck. Pulau Kapas can be reached by taking a ferry from Marang, Terengganu.

3. Pulau Rawa @ Johor

Pulau Rawa is a secluded island which is just a stone’s throw away from Singapore. There are daily ferries from Mersing Jetty to this island and its only an hour away.

On top of that, Pulau Rawa is a perfect alternative for those who prefer a less-touristy spot, therefore you’ll be treated to a peaceful holiday without having to fight the crowds. In other words, going here is all about relaxing.

4. Pulau Tenggol @ Terengganu

To date, Pulau Tenggol is the farthest island from West Malaysia mainland. Located off the coast of Terengganu, this beautiful island can be accessed using a ferry from Dungun. If you are flying across peninsula, then Kuala Terengganu is the nearest airport to Dungun.

Due to its crystal clear water, Pulau Tenggol is famous for famous for its underwater sights, such as sharks and rays making it popular among divers.

5. Pulau Lankayan @ Sabah

Pulau Lankayan is a private island located near Sandakan. To get to the island, one would need to take a speedboat that departs from the Sandakan Yacht Club.

The island has gained recognition as a destination for scuba divers, as the island is bursting with underwater sea life, natural coral and crystal clear water. For those who would like to watch turtle, Pulau Lankayan is also a perfect place to go, in the fact that the island is also a nesting site for green and hawksbill turtles.

6. Pulau Tiga @ Sabah

The fastest way to get to Pulau Tiga is by chartering a speed boat from Kota Kinabalu and cruise to Pulau Tiga. Or otherwise, you could also fly to Labuan and charter a speed boat from Labuan itself to the island.

Pulau had an interesting history way back in 1897. This paradise island formed by eruption of several mud volcanoes hundred years ago. To date, the mud volcano has became a outdoor spa spot you could soak in it for a free health spa in nature.

7. Pulau Gemia (or Gem Island) @ Terengganu

Located at Terengganu, Pulau Gemia is a tiny, privately owned island which is located not far away from Pulau Kapas. The island has virgin forests and a rocky coastline that makes for very interesting photographs. If you are lucky, you might catch sight of colorful sea creatures and even baby turtles.

To get to this island, you will need to head over to the jetty located in Marang, Terengganu, which takes about 15 minutes.

The post 7 Secret Islands To Visit In Malaysia Where You Can Escape The Crowds appeared first on Fun N' Taste.

Despite weakening ringgit, Malaysians love to go on holidays oversea. If you have a passport from Malaysia, you’re allow to travel to these 12 countries without a visa for a period of stay of ninety (90) days or less.

1. Brazil, South America

Brazil is a gateway to Latin America, and a country of the world-famous Carnival of Rio that is popular for its spectacular and colourful parades and lively dance. This festival held every year and considered the biggest carnival in the world with 2 million people per day on the streets.

2. Morocco, North Africa

When one mentions Morocco, the colourful city of Marrackech certainly comes to one’s mind. The vibrant city is full of warmth and charm, filled with spice markets, souks (Arab market), and snake charmers. On top of that, the Moorish architecture and decorative Moroccan tiles have attracted many travellers travel to this country.

3. Spain, Western Europe

While spreading the Spanish language and football culture across the world, you could almost forget that Spanish cuisine is one of the world greatest gift. From delicious tapas to excellent seafood and traditional roasts, you’ve got to head to Spain if you love food like us. Did you know that Spain is the second-largest wine-producing country in the world?

4. Samoa, Oceania

Samoa is located south of the equator, about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand in the Polynesian region of the Pacific Ocean. The two main islands are Savai’i and Upolu. Its capital Apia is situated on Upolu. The Samoans are known throughout Polynesia as the “happy people” because of their enjoyment of life and their good-spirited nature.

5. Albania, Southern Europe 

Albania is a mountainous country located in Southern Europe. Like its famous neighbour Greece to the South, Albania borders the glittering cerulean waters of the Adriatic and Ionian seas. With fresh seafood dinners costing around $5 USD, your wallet will love this Mediterranean destination.

6. Slovenia, Central Europe

Slovenia may be the best-kept secret in Europe, with architecturally grand, cultured cities, and lush pine-forested. When it comes to skiing you’ll find some of Europe’s best ski destinations in Slovenia with some stunning resorts to take care of your every need. Simply put, Slovenia is the must visit destination you never thought of.

7. Turkey, Middle East

Lying partly in Asia and Europe, Turkey has quickly become a bucket list destination for most 20-somethings. Here you’ll find stunning architectures, ancient cities, mind-blowing history, and warm hospitality, not to mention a mix of Turkish delicacies that will have your taste buds dancing.

8. Cuba, Northern Caribbean

Cuba has so much more to offer besides cigar and vintage car. Due to the U.S embargo against Cuba, the country has not been exposed to Americanisation. Both the buildings and vintage cars have been meticulously preserved, thus making this country one of the most authentic places in the world to visit.

9. Ecuador, South America

The second-smallest country in South America, Ecuador is a land of rich cultural and historical attractions, all set within a backdrop of natural wonders, with landscapes that range between lush, tropical rain forests and glaciated volcanoes.

10. Colombia, South America

Based on financial advisory firm Arton Capital’s Global Passport Power Rank 2017, Malaysian passport is sixth best in the world, with a visa-free score of 154.

Despite weakening ringgit, Malaysians love to go on holidays oversea. If you have a passport from Malaysia, you’re allow to travel to these 12 countries without a visa for a period of stay of ninety (90) days or less.

1. Brazil, South America

Brazil is a gateway to Latin America, and a country of the world-famous Carnival of Rio that is popular for its spectacular and colourful parades and lively dance. This festival held every year and considered the biggest carnival in the world with 2 million people per day on the streets.

2. Morocco, North Africa

When one mentions Morocco, the colourful city of Marrackech certainly comes to one’s mind. The vibrant city is full of warmth and charm, filled with spice markets, souks (Arab market), and snake charmers. On top of that, the Moorish architecture and decorative Moroccan tiles have attracted many travellers travel to this country.

3. Spain, Western Europe

While spreading the Spanish language and football culture across the world, you could almost forget that Spanish cuisine is one of the world greatest gift. From delicious tapas to excellent seafood and traditional roasts, you’ve got to head to Spain if you love food like us. Did you know that Spain is the second-largest wine-producing country in the world?

4. Samoa, Oceania

Samoa is located south of the equator, about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand in the Polynesian region of the Pacific Ocean. The two main islands are Savai’i and Upolu. Its capital Apia is situated on Upolu. The Samoans are known throughout Polynesia as the “happy people” because of their enjoyment of life and their good-spirited nature.

5. Albania, Southern Europe 

Albania is a mountainous country located in Southern Europe. Like its famous neighbour Greece to the South, Albania borders the glittering cerulean waters of the Adriatic and Ionian seas. With fresh seafood dinners costing around $5 USD, your wallet will love this Mediterranean destination.

6. Slovenia, Central Europe

Slovenia may be the best-kept secret in Europe, with architecturally grand, cultured cities, and lush pine-forested. When it comes to skiing you’ll find some of Europe’s best ski destinations in Slovenia with some stunning resorts to take care of your every need. Simply put, Slovenia is the must visit destination you never thought of.

7. Turkey, Middle East

Lying partly in Asia and Europe, Turkey has quickly become a bucket list destination for most 20-somethings. Here you’ll find stunning architectures, ancient cities, mind-blowing history, and warm hospitality, not to mention a mix of Turkish delicacies that will have your taste buds dancing.

8. Cuba, Northern Caribbean

Cuba has so much more to offer besides cigar and vintage car. Due to the U.S embargo against Cuba, the country has not been exposed to Americanisation. Both the buildings and vintage cars have been meticulously preserved, thus making this country one of the most authentic places in the world to visit.

9. Ecuador, South America

The second-smallest country in South America, Ecuador is a land of rich cultural and historical attractions, all set within a backdrop of natural wonders, with landscapes that range between lush, tropical rain forests and glaciated volcanoes.

10. Colombia, South America

https://www.instagram.com/p/CSsfiwvsnwP/

Long synonymous with cocaine cartels, the last 20 years have seen Colombia move on from the days of Pablo Escobar into one of South America’s brightest stars. Being renowned for its super green coffee fields, mass production of emeralds, and all-night salsa clubs, a trip to Colombia should be on everyone’s list.

11. Monaco, Europe

If budget doesn’t concern you much, Monaco is just too beautiful to be missed. With its glamorous nightlife, luxury hotel towers and upscale casinos, Monaco is a small independent city-state on France’s Mediterranean coastline known for its yacht-lined harbor and prestigious Grand Prix motor race.

12. Kosovo, Southeastern Europe

A small country in south-eastern Europe, since declaring independence in 2008, Kosovo is still less travelled but it opens your eyes to sights and experiences you couldn’t have elsewhere. Not only that, because the tourism is only just beginning, it’s incredibly cheap to travel with a highly rated hostel costing around RM50 per night.

Long synonymous with cocaine cartels, the last 20 years have seen Colombia move on from the days of Pablo Escobar into one of South America’s brightest stars. Being renowned for its super green coffee fields, mass production of emeralds, and all-night salsa clubs, a trip to Colombia should be on everyone’s list.

11. Monaco, Europe

If budget doesn’t concern you much, Monaco is just too beautiful to be missed. With its glamorous nightlife, luxury hotel towers and upscale casinos, Monaco is a small independent city-state on France’s Mediterranean coastline known for its yacht-lined harbor and prestigious Grand Prix motor race.

12. Kosovo, Southeastern Europe

A small country in south-eastern Europe, since declaring independence in 2008, Kosovo is still less travelled but it opens your eyes to sights and experiences you couldn’t have elsewhere. Not only that, because the tourism is only just beginning, it’s incredibly cheap to travel with a highly rated hostel costing around RM50 per night.

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