Looking for a summer travel experience?
Here are some ideas:
If extreme adventure beckons, consider Southeast Asia. Your vacation can range from tanning on a white sand beach, to exploring a friendly inland village and eating more pineapple than you ever thought possible, all at a cost that is a fraction of an European vacation.
Traveling around Southeast Asia tends to be easy and cheap, and it fosters personal growth.
Thailand, the land of smiles, fully lives up to its name. The locals love Western culture, and the Westerners love local prices. Thailand offers the best of both worlds: vibrant Bangkok culture and untouched miles of white sand beaches.
Another Southeast Asia gem is Laos. A bit quieter than neighboring Thailand, Laos is a country of traditional tribal wear and the mighty Mekong. If archaeology is your weakness, visit the Plain of Jars, a field scattered with thousands of stone jars whose purpose and origin remains a mystery.
Vietnam isn’t one to miss. The war is long over, but observing socialist propaganda while zipping around on a motor bike still brings with it the value of cultural observation. With one of the fastest growing economies in Asia, Vietnam is an up-and-comer – don’t miss the chance to see the birth of a developing nation.
Complete the loop by visiting Cambodia. Because they rely on interaction with tourists, children in Cambodia most likely speak better English than adults, and the ATMs spit out American dollars. Angkor Wat, one of the most incredible architectural sites on earth, lies in the heart of Cambodia. Exploring ruins of an ancient empire overgrown with jungle will leave you breathless.
Care to share? Each country in Southeast Asia is looking for English teachers. The influence of Westernization has created a vast interest for in learning English.
Several volunteer English teaching programs coordinate students and institutions in Asia. Cross Cultural Solutions, an excellent volunteer network, will place you in the country of your choice.
As a volunteer, you can make a difference by supporting and contributing to a sustainable solution designed by professionals.
The possibilities in Southeast Asia really are endless. For the traveling student seeking adventure or for the growing philanthropist looking to make a difference, Asia is the place.
What’s next? Pick up a copy of Lonely Planet’s Southeast Asia on a Shoestring and start exploring. Assure mom you’ll be safe and go East!
