Maritime Southeast Asia
The islands and archipelagos: Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei. Getting between highlights usually means a short flight or a ferry across bright water.
5 guides, one editorial deskSeasons checked against the national tourism bodiesHow we research these guides
Bali
One island, several trips: Ubud's rice terraces, the surf-and-beach-club south, and temples everywhere. When to visit Bali and how to choose your base.
Singapore
A clean, multicultural city-state and a superb first or last stop, if you know where the hawker food is. When to visit Singapore and what to eat.
Kuala Lumpur
An underrated capital where Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures meet over superb food. When to visit Kuala Lumpur, what to do, and where to eat.
George Town, Penang
Malaysia's food capital wrapped around a UNESCO heritage core of shophouses, murals, and hawker stalls. When to visit George Town, Penang.
El Nido
A rough-and-ready town that opens onto Bacuit Bay's limestone lagoons and island-hopping. When to visit El Nido, Palawan, and what to expect.