B.E.A.C.H. - Best Escape Anyone Can Have
When one thinks about affordable tropical vacations, Asia usually comes to mind. There are many destinations on this vast continent which are synonymous with warm, balmy weather, palm trees, sunshine and water sports – at an affordable price. Here are 6 of the best destinations for an affordable tropical vacation in Asia.
With over 7000 islands, it can be challenging to find the best beach destination in the Philippines. The idyllic El Nido is a popular destination on Palawan Island, known for its unspoilt white beaches, rich coral reefs, towering limestone cliffs and pre-historic caves. Known as the Gateway to Adventure, it is the main base for exploring Palawan’s biggest attraction, the Bacuit Archipelago, a beautiful bay comprising 45 limestone outcrops. El Nido is easily accessible via Philippine Airlines flights.
Goa is India’s most famous beach destination, renowned for its wide stretch of beach, delicious seafood, abundant biodiversity and vibrant nightlife. India’s smallest state, Goa was colonized by the Portuguese until 1961, and their influence can still be seen in the colonial architecture, Euro-Indian cuisine, local language and traditions. The coconut trees, adorable beach huts, warm Arabian Sea, and laid-back ambience tend to attract repeat as well as new visitors. Air India express tickets can be easily booked to get to Goa.
Phuket has a well-deserved reputation as one of the world’s most popular tropical beach resort destinations. The easy-going beach atmosphere, friendly locals and affordable hotels and activities add to its popularity. There are over 30 beaches with different types of scenery, vibes, facilities and even sand textures. When you’re tired of the beaches, you can discover the historic, cultural and culinary attractions that Phuket has.
Langkawi is an archipelago on the West Coast of Malaysia, made up of 99 islands. The main island is surrounded by turquoise waters while its interior consists of rice paddies and rolling rainforest-covered hills. Langkawi boasts picturesque beaches fringed with swaying coconut trees, blue lagoons and waterfalls. There are beaches for everyone here, whether you prefer lively water sports, sheltered quiet coves, stunning sunsets or family picnics.
Hoi An is one of the most beautiful towns in South East Asia. The historic Old Town dates back to the 15th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage site with its traditional canals, silk lanterns, colonial trading houses and Japanese covered bridge. A short drive or cycle ride from Hoi An will take you to stunning beaches where you can indulge in surfing, swimming, sunbathing and scuba diving. An Bang Beach is the most popular beach in Hoi An.
Cua Dai Beach is another beautiful beach known for its soft, white sand, crystal clear waters, and gentle waves. However it has been suffering from a lot of erosion recently. Hoi An is located on the east coast of Vietnam, making it a great place to catch fabulous sunrises.
Lombok is one of the most attractive islands in Indonesia, and a nature lover’s paradise with its lush rainforests, diverse marine life and overland adventures. Its incredible beaches present stiff competition to those in Bali. Here, you will also get white sandy beaches and azure blue waters but minus the crowds. Lombok is also renowned for having some of the best surfing and snorkelling in Indonesia. There is a wide range of beaches to choose from depending on what you want to do, including the unique pink beach also known as Tangsi Beach.
Some of these beaches have been listed amongst the best beaches in the world. Which one would you choose? What is your favourite destination for an affordable tropical vacation in Asia?
Pin this image:
Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.