My favourite continent by far – Asia is a land that spells freedom for me. It was the first place I ever travelled solo. The first step into my new life. I’ve been travelling all my life, but Asia was a place that captivated me like nowhere else had before.
Explore Asia with Absolutely Lucy – from the beaches of Thailand to the temples of Cambodia. Get all the inspiration you need and more for your next big trip. Swim the waterfalls of Laos, dine on the best street food in Vietnam, explore the streets of Kuala Lumpur of swim with sea turtles in Indonesia. Fancy getting off the beaten track? Sri Lanka is the country for you – a little piece of my heart was left behind. Find all my posts on every trip to Asia in this section.
It was rich in culture, full of vibrant colours, spirituality, incredible nature and a gentle, kind people who welcomed me with open arms. I started by taking the classic backpacker Indo-China route of South East Asia. Travelling across Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. The five months I spent travelling this region blew my mind. It only served to fuel my love of travel even more. I later returned on various trips to explore Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Indonesia.
Sri Lanka was like travelling in times gone past. It was like stepping foot in Asia over 10 years ago before tourism took over. It’s authentic and pure in a way that South East Asia has lost. This is where it’s magic lies and why it will always be one of my favourite places I have ever travelled.
Visit Koh Lanta, in Thailand
Visit the temples in Cambodia
Accommodation – Asia is the best for travelling on a budget – your money stretches so far. Particularly in South-East Asia – you can find luxury accommodation for budget prices. If you’re backpacking, expect to pay between £5-15 for a hostel depending on how basic/luxe it is. You can easily find huts on the beach for £10-30 depending on location/luxury. And hotels/Airbnb can start from £10 a night and can range up to the really luxurious 5* hotels. Read: My Top Hostels in South-East Asia
Food – Some of the cheapest and best quality food I have eaten in the world. Asia is the home of amazing street food markets and cheap but great quality eats. Don’t bother with restaurants – you’ll find the freshest and tastiest meals at the cheapest street food shacks and stalls. Follow the locals – if there is a queue, it’s good! Expect plastic chairs and eating in the street. But you’ll pay less than £5 for a full spread!
Transportation – There are internal flights available cheaply across Asia – just watch out for extra charges for luggage. The best way is to use the overnight buses, trains and ferries between the islands. In South-East Asia – enjoy luxury buses for cheap prices and always do your research. Read: Top tips for surviving a sleeper bus in Asia. I also really recommend checking out public transport in places like Sri Lanka – they’re cheapest by far and a great way to travel.
Suggested daily budget – 50 GBP / 60 USD (Note: This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel, eating street food and using local transportation. If you stay in fancier accommodation or eat out more often, expect this to be higher!)
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It really depends where you go – Asia is a huge area of the world and I still have much to explore. Expect huge cultural differences, but don’t be afraid to jump in. The Asian culture and mixture of religions creates a beautiful way of life and a warmth and friendliness that can’t be beaten. I don’t know anyone who ever went to Asia and didn’t like it. In countries like Sri Lanka, India and Myanmar, you’ll find a really authentic travel experience filled with culture, history and amazing nature. In Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia – expect outstanding natural beauty, amazing beaches and delicious food.
Head to Malaysia, China and Japan for amazing shopping and bustling cities, or escape to their stunning national parks and coastline. Over in Indonesia you can expect amazing wildlife, volcanoes and national parks, or go swim with sea turtles in the Gili islands. Everyone falls in love with Bali – and the Philippines are another popular beach option.
*This adventure activities in Thailand post is a collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) You guys know I love to chase adventures, I've spent the last seven years chasing them around the globe. But let's go back to the
*This Sri Lanka 2 week itinerary post is a collaboration with Cathay Pacific There are some countries that truly ignite my passion for travel. Sri Lanka was a place I had been dreaming of for years before I visited. It combined
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February 6, 2020