Travel on a Budget Too: 5 Best Southeast Asian Countries for Graduation Trips

Hoi An was once a bustling international trade hub in Southeast Asia, and the entire ancient town feels like a living museum of time. (Photo provided by DACSEE/imaginechina/Shutterstock)

Summer vacation is peak season for students planning graduation trips, and budget-friendly Southeast Asian countries have become popular travel destinations. With relatively affordable food and accommodation, they also offer a taste of exotic local culture. Global travel website TripAdvisor has selected 5 of the best Southeast Asian countries for graduation trips, allowing students to create memorable college-era experiences without breaking the bank.

● Thailand

Thailand is the top choice in Southeast Asia. In Bangkok, a city vibrant with nightlife, you can explore the Chatuchak Market. The restaurants along the market are atmospherically decorated—perfect for a fun night out with friends over drinks. You can also include visits to the majestic Grand Palace and the revered Erawan Shrine in your itinerary to pray for good grades.

If you love sunny beaches and water activities, and want to throw an unforgettable beach graduation party, Phuket—one of the world’s best travel destinations in 2017—is a must. Kata Noi Beach and Nai Harn Beach in Phuket have both been named “Travellers’ Choice – Best Beaches in Asia,” and the area is also rich in natural attractions such as limestone cliffs, caves, and crystal-clear blue waters. Popular spots like Phi Phi Islands, Phang Nga Bay, and Patong Beach offer a wide range of outdoor activities, from diving and snorkeling to sailing and windsurfing for endless water fun.

● Vietnam

The joy of Vietnam’s smaller towns is simple and pure. Wandering through ancient streets paired with a strong cup of filtered coffee is truly refreshing. Recommended cities include Hanoi, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Hoi An—which was also named one of the world’s best travel destinations in 2017—each offering a delightful taste of leisure.

For a deeper experience, consider staying overnight in Hoi An Ancient Town, one of the best-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Asia and a must-visit spot when traveling in Vietnam. You can also sample delicious street food there in the evenings.

Additionally, from March to October each year, Vietnam offers the best conditions for scuba diving, with underwater visibility exceeding 20 meters. The bizarre coral formations and colorful fish create magical underwater memories in Southeast Asia.

● Cambodia

If time and budget allow, you can travel overland from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam to Phnom Penh, or take a bus from Chiang Mai in Thailand to Siem Reap. Neighboring Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, Cambodia serves as an ideal cross-Southeast Asia stop for graduation trips.

The highlight of Cambodia is Siem Reap, ranked second in the 2017 Travellers’ Choice – Best Travel Destinations in Asia. It is home to the world’s largest religious complex, the 1,000-year-old Angkor Wat and the 12th-century Angkor Thom royal city. Surrounded by these ancient structures, you can witness the most serene beauty of the place before sunrise—feeling as though you’ve stepped into a mysterious ancient kingdom, utterly breathtaking.

● Laos

Laos is a land full of legend and historical charm. Travelers can reach it via a propeller plane from Siem Reap or cross the land border through Cambodia. According to TripAdvisor, the most popular destinations in Laos are Vientiane and Luang Prabang.

Vientiane, the capital and largest city of Laos, is home to the magnificent golden stupa Pha That Luang, a national symbol of Laos. Luang Prabang, the former capital, is dotted with colonial French architectural remnants throughout its streets and alleys—a great place for night markets, local cuisine, and sightseeing.

● Philippines

For a carefree graduation trip filled with sunshine and beaches, the islands of the Philippines are a top pick. Whether it's popular spots like Cebu and Boracay, or lesser-known gems like Palawan (ranked 25th in Asia’s Best Travel Destinations 2017) and Panay, you can choose to relax on a single island or island-hop to experience diverse maritime life.

Among them, Boracay combines lively tourist hotspots with natural beauty. The whole island spans just 4.5 miles, perfect for a bike or motorbike island tour. You can also visit White Beach—ranked second among Asia’s Best Beaches in 2017—or try adventure water activities like parasailing, sea walking, and stand-up paddleboarding.