SOUTHEAST  ASIA

Ever since the 1970s backpackers have been flocking to Southeast Asia to enjoy the beaches and jungles on a low accommodation, food, and beer budget.  Some people who arrive never leave.  The backpacking trail that originally focused on Thailand expanded East and South (and now even west to Myanmar) as war torn countries recovered and opened to Western travelers.  There is a wide range of temples and arguably two of the World's Great Archaeological sites at Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Bagan in Myanmar.

While it may be difficult to get off the beaten track, and certain areas heavily cater to tourists, the region still seems to retain it's original charm and vibe even as it quickly modernizes.

BRUNEI

I spent one day in the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB) - perhaps there is more to do in the rest of Brunei but one day was enough for BSB.

CAMBODIA

This is another country that always seems to appear on the "Next Destination" lists.  The country still lacks highways connecting the major attractions, however, distances apart are typically less than six hours.  Once those times are reduced the flood gates will open as the country will not be limited to backpackers with time to spare.  Instantly Cambodia with it's famous Angkor Wat site, French Colonial capital, and beaches will be a must visit country.

LAOS

Laos unfortunately holds the distinction as a great country to backpack through but much more difficult to reach and travel through for those on a limited budget. 

The paradox with Laos is it's worth visiting because of it's sleepy, laidback vibe...thus the more people who visit the less sleep and laidback it will remain.

MALAYSIA

This is a difficult country to get your head around - it has two parts: Peninsular and Borneo.  It also has one of the strictest Muslim enclaves and one of the glitziest modern cities in Kuala Lumpur.

MYANMAR

If you are looking for a sleepy, quiet, isolated, remote place go to Laos - I think most people think that is what they will find in Myanmar, however, Myanmar has had some recent infrastructure improvements and it's major cities of Yangon and Mandalay are as modern as any India city other than Delhi or Mumbai.  That said, if you want to see the other side of Myanmar, you need to venture out a bit off the main track.

PHILIPPINES

There is more to the Philippines' islands than just beaches.   There are some amazing geographical features around Palawan and Bohol and also a diverse range of animals from whale sharks to tarsars.

SINGAPORE

The modern city / state is a model of the Free Market but also blends multiple cultures: English, Malay, Chinese, and Indian.  That's four languages, four religions, and four different types of cuisines.   Part of what makes this work is the enforcement of strict laws, however, that also makes Singapore less fun than it's neighbors.  A beer here is more expensive than it's Muslim neighbor Malaysia.

THAILAND

Out of all the Southeast Asia countries this seems to be the one that most people are aware of and the first one they visit.  I don't know if it's any better of a destination than Malaysia, Cambodia, or a Vietnam, but it certainly has a better tourist "infrastructure".  The country is everything you'd expect it to be and everything you've heard about it is probably true.