Exploring the mesmerizing Indochinese peninsula is like stepping into a vibrant tapestry of cultures, each part uniquely fascinating and teeming with life.

As a haven for travelers seeking the thrill of the unfamiliar, this Southeast Asian region boasts breathtaking landscapes and cities where ancient cultures and modernity blend seamlessly. From my own journeys, the sheer variety can be overwhelming—whether you’re weaving through the bustling streets of Bangkok or standing in awe beneath the sprawling temple complexes of Angkor Wat.

If you’re plotting an escape to Asia and know your travel dates but can't decide on a destination, you're not alone. Choosing between Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar is tough, especially for a first-time visitor to Southeast Asia. While places like Bangkok and Bali attract most of the spotlight, there are hidden gems slowly gaining the world’s attention.

Although all these countries boast fabulous natural sites, gorgeous beaches, awe-inspiring Buddhist temples, and warm, welcoming local populations, their lifestyles, as well as their customs and traditions, are distinctly different.

So, which country will ultimately be your choice for your next visit to the Indochinese Peninsula?

Tonkin Voyage Travel, local agency in Indochina, provides a comparison of these countries based on six different characteristics in this article to help you better decide which destination suits you best.

I- Vietnam - A "Three-in-One" Country

Fringed by the South China Sea along about 2,000 miles of coastline, Vietnam stretches long and narrow, often rightly described as a "three-in-one" destination. Indeed, one can marvel at varied landscapes and experience different climates whether in:

The North, with its mountainous regions, a playground for adventurers fond of hiking through rice terrace fields, getting up close with ethnic minorities. In the Central part, where you can relax in stunning beach resorts with white sand beaches. Or in the South, during a cruise on the legendary waters of the Mekong Delta amidst lush tropical vegetation.

1 - Culture

Vietnam's history roots back over 4,000 years on the banks of the Red River. Its culture, one of the oldest in Asia, is deeply imbued with age-old traditions and practices, animated by a succession of ancestral celebrations.

The doctrines of this rice-farming civilization, devoutly worshipping the "ancestors," primarily stem from Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism.

Vietnam prides itself on having preserved, despite its tumultuous modern history, traces of its millennia-old past, thanks to numerous ancient texts, a multitude of religious monuments, ancient temples, pagodas, feudal tombs, and even visible ancient historical relics. Oral tradition, telling tales and popular legends, also plays a significant role in transmitting this shared past.

The Vietnamese society is a multicultural community, enriched by a mosaic of 54 different ethnic groups, each strongly attached to their respective customs, which they strive to coexist within a vast combination of cultures forming the Vietnamese identity.

Vietnam's cultural identity is also significantly impacted by nearly a thousand years of Chinese occupation and a controversial French colonial past, which has decidedly influenced the country's architectural landscape.

In recent years, tourists visit Vietnam not only to discover its magnificent landscapes but also to better understand the history of this endearing people.

2 - The Beauty of the Landscapes

Vietnam, unsurprisingly, regularly features in various rankings of the world's most coveted destinations. The country is a condensation of spectacular landscapes with varied reliefs.

The North is conducive to adventure, serving as Vietnam's green lung. Between karstic landscapes, steep mountains, national parks with exceptional panoramas, fans of hiking, kayaking, photography, and ethnic encounters will be satisfied. Notably, you'll find the impressive region of Sapa and the famous Halong Bay.

The Central part of the country is renowned for housing several historical jewels, such as the cities of Hue and Hoi-An, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which will leave no one indifferent. The landscapes of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park with its caves, rice fields, temples, and watercourses are sure to enchant you!

The Southern part of Vietnam is ideal for relaxing on one of the many beaches along the Southeast coast and for enjoying the nightlife and history of the bustling southern metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City. The mountainous hinterland also boasts some of the country's most beautiful national parks.

3 - The Vietnamese

The Vietnamese population, like other Southeast Asian peoples, is known for its kindness and conviviality. In each region, you will be warmly welcomed by joyful locals, happy to assist or inform you.

Here are some national stereotypes: People from Hue are famous for their elegance, while those from Hoi An are known for their honesty. If you're lucky enough to visit the Mekong Delta, you'll be impressed by the sincerity and enthusiasm of the villagers.

Vietnamese society comprises 54 ethnic groups, each with their own distinct characteristics, all assimilated into a larger whole forming the country's identity. The Vietnamese culture is "unity in cultural diversity."

Aside from the dominant Viet-Muong culture, there are many other cultural peculiarities such as those of the Tay-Nung, Thai, Cham, Mon-Khmer, H'Mong, or Dao.

4 - Cuisine

When mentioning Vietnamese cuisine, one immediately thinks of typical dishes such as Tonkinese soups, shrimp stir-fries, spring rolls, and summer rolls… but there's so much more to discover.

Fine, light, low in fat, and featuring a plethora of vegetables and aromatic herbs, this healthy and balanced cuisine won't spike your sugar or cholesterol levels.

A true medley of flavors that will delight the taste buds of fine gourmets, through numerous regional specialties each possessing their culinary specificities.

5 - Climate of Vietnam

The elongated territory of Vietnam is divided into three distinct climatic zones: the North, the Center, and the South, deeply influenced by the monsoon, which brings different meteorological characteristics to each region.

The North of Vietnam features a four-season alternation, with a winter lasting from December to February, accompanied by low temperatures and low humidity. A hot and rainy summer occurs from May to August. The rest of the year is marked by a spring and autumn with mild and pleasant climates.

The Central part of Vietnam is subject to a humid tropical or coastal monsoon climate. The temperature is warm almost all year round. The driest months are from November to April, while from August to November, the central regions suffer from many storms and floods.

The South of Vietnam has only two seasons: the dry and the wet seasons, with high temperatures throughout the year. The dry season lasts from November to April followed by the wet season from May to October.

Check out our article on the climate in Vietnam month by month.

6 - Entry Formalities to Vietnam

Applying for a visa to Vietnam is quite simple and quick:

Besides the visa exemptions granted to French nationals for stays up to 45 days, you can also make your request at a local embassy.

The visa for Vietnam can also be granted upon arrival. All you need to do is apply online to obtain an approval letter through online travel agencies or directly via the official government site: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/home

The letter will be sent to you within 6 business days following your request.

For more information: check out our article Vietnam Visa Exemption 2023.

II - CAMBODIA

Cambodia, one of the smaller countries in Southeast Asia, is gradually turning away from its painful past and opening up with evident enthusiasm to international tourism.

Despite a troubled history that has shaped the country's current face and whose memory duty can still be felt, a trip to Cambodia inevitably brings to mind for most visitors the ancient architectural monuments, sacred pagodas, and Khmer culture, a true echo of a unique and prestigious civilization in Indochina.

1 - Culture

Cambodia enjoys a millennia-old culture that has left a mark on human history through the radiance of its Khmer civilization, symbolized by the iconic temples of Angkor.

The Buddhist temples of Battambang, as well as the Khmer Temple of Prasat Preah Vihear, are also among the main cultural attractions of the country.

However, it is essential not to reduce this culture to mere architectural feats. Its richness is also appreciated through its ancestral customs, complex language, and traditional music and dances still perpetuated today by the Royal Ballet of Cambodia.

Although the overwhelming majority of Cambodians are fervent practitioners of Theravada Buddhism, they coexist with small Muslim Cham minorities and some Christian or animist mountain communities.

2 - The Beauty of the Landscapes

Cambodia is an exciting Asian destination for the still wild beauty of its landscapes:

The eastern half of the country is traversed from north to south by the legendary Mekong River, bordered by a hinterland of ochre earth and lush vegetation.

The hilly provinces of Ratanakiri and Mondolkiri in the Northeast, home to the Virachey National Park, shelter isolated tribes living in a somewhat "primitive" world.

In the Northwest, the spectacle of the Angkor temples surrounded by jungle, as well as the Tonlé Sap lake biosphere reserve, are truly worth the visit.

The magnificent beaches and islands of the southwest coast around Sihanoukville, and the Ream National Park, are genuine postcard settings.

In the South, the region of Kâmpôt with its pepper farms, as well as the Bokor National Park, offer vast natural spaces as far as the eye can see.

3 - The Cambodians

Deeply Buddhist, the Cambodian people, still marked by the dramatic episode of the Khmer Rouge, show remarkable human resilience, based on kindness and discretion.

Naturally modest, Cambodians often dress from top to bottom, sometimes even wearing socks under their sandals and wool hats to protect themselves from the sun.

Thus, the rules for tourists are quite strict: it is proper to walk around in decent clothing and utterly unthinkable to visit temples or sacred ruins with knees or shoulders uncovered.

Fiercely superstitious, the inhabitants of Cambodia live in fear of spirits, and local ceremonies are always accompanied by deafening music intended to ward off evil spirits!

Cambodians live at their own pace: nonchalance, calmness, and peacefulness characterize them and are both striking and charming. One thing at a time, take it slow, have a nap in a hammock in the shade... these are the precepts of the local life philosophy.

4 - Cuisine

Cambodian cuisine is a sweet mix of Indian, Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Khmer, and even French cuisines. The basic ingredients are mainly rice from the numerous rice fields of the country and fish from the Tonlé Sap River and the Mekong.

Do not miss the typical dishes:

Samla chapek, a delicious pork soup that serves as a snack, which can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Lok lak, a classic of Khmer cuisine, consists of marinated beef stir-fried and served with rice and fresh vegetables, much to the delight of food lovers.

Amok, the national dish par excellence, is an oven-baked fish curry recipe, flavored with lemongrass, chili, and coconut, a must-try for all fine gourmets.

The succulent blue crab from Kep, stewed with vegetables and infused with Kampot pepper, will tantalize your taste buds for sure.

For the more adventurous, portions of "street-food" on local night markets offer noodles garnished with unusual ingredients such as insects or tarantulas.

5 - Climate of Cambodia

Like any respectable tropical country, Cambodia is subject to two main seasons alternated by the monsoon:

The dry season, from November to March with temperatures ranging around 25 to 30°C and the wet season, from April to October, recording averages of about 35°C.

April and May are particularly sweltering, and it can be said easily that it is very hot all year round. January is the period of the year with the least rainfall.

It is best to travel to Cambodia during the dry season, i.e., between November and March.

6 - Entry Formalities to Cambodia

No procedures are necessary before your departure; the visa for Cambodia is easily obtained upon your arrival at the airport.

Just be sure to prepare 30 dollars (perhaps a bit more in case of an opportune tax) and a passport photo.

III - LAOS, Rich in Authenticity

Laos, a still secret destination in Southeast Asia, is a landlocked strip of territory at the heart of the Indochinese peninsula, devoid of the paradisiacal beaches that bring prestige to its Asian neighbors.

This country, unfortunately the poorest in Indochina, nonetheless retains a palpable authenticity that 30 years of intensified communism have not managed to erase.

Less frequented than Thailand, less sensational than Cambodia and its Angkor temples, less publicized than Myanmar, and far less attractive than Vietnam, Laos is still far from having revealed all its mysteries.

Known as the land of a million elephants, this rural, mountainous territory, abundant with natural reserves, boasts lush nature teeming with life.

Apart from Vientiane, its provincial-looking capital, the country primarily consists of small picturesque villages inhabited by sincere minority ethnic groups.

Undoubtedly, Laos fulfills all the promises of an intense and emotionally charged journey through fabulous landscapes still preserved from mass tourism, in contact with an authentic and welcoming population.

1 - Culture

Despite the communist government's futile efforts to curtail the role of religion among the populace, Buddhism significantly influences life in this little corner of Asia where time seems to have stood still for about fifty years.

This religion, practiced by the vast majority of the country, governs all daily activities.

For instance, Laotians customarily give alms to monks each morning.

The early morning is a solemn moment when monks leave their monasteries, barefoot, silent, dressed in orange, bowl in hand, to parade through the streets to collect food from the residents. Laotians firmly believe in the meritorious virtues of this act of grace, ensuring them future reincarnations.

The majority of the country's inhabitants have preserved a rural lifestyle based on handicrafts and agriculture, deeply imbued with ethnic customs and rituals that perpetuate traditional songs and music.

Most villages in Laos have at least one temple, which, besides being places of worship, also serve as centers of social life where village meetings, religious ceremonies, and festivals are held.

2 - The Beauty of the Landscapes

Despite having no maritime access, this territory still spared from the grandiose projects of property developers, features sublime pristine landscapes made up of majestic mountains, breathtaking waterfalls and cascades, as well as rivers, caves, and splendid countrysides.

The mountains, ideal for hiking, are a refuge for surprising endemic species such as flying squirrels, the red panda, macaques, and elephants.

The multi-tiered Kuang Si Falls in Luang Prabang and the tumultuous Khone Phapheng Falls near the 4000 islands on the border with Cambodia are impressive sights. Swimming in the pools, trekking through the jungles, and reveling in the beauty of these natural wonders will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience!

3 - The Laotians

Smiling, friendly, and very relaxed, really very relaxed... Laotians particularly enjoy eating throughout the day and relishing moments of relaxation with friends.

"Bô penh yang" ("no worries") perfectly embodies the Lao philosophy.

Time is a relatively fluid concept here, and it is difficult to plan things strictly. It is better to arm yourself with patience and cultivate flexibility to fully enjoy the leisurely pace of life of the inhabitants.

Naturally shy and discreet at first, Laotians remain endearing, gentle, and open if you make the first move.

They are a tremendously charming and incredibly welcoming people. It is not uncommon, during a walk, to be invited to a wedding, a meal, a birthday, or simply into a classroom. These are unique and unforgettable moments.

4 - Cuisine

Laotian cuisine is a fabulous mix of Thai, Vietnamese, and French influences.

Based on sticky rice, served at every meal, this healthy and balanced cuisine, usually very spicy, is garnished with meats such as pork, beef, poultry, or freshwater fish, accompanied by a variety of vegetables.

A legacy of the French colonial past, bread is an integral part of Laotian dietary habits. A trip to Laos is undoubtedly a great opportunity to taste fantastic local typical dishes, as well as rediscover Western dishes, reinterpreted by Lao standards, that you won't find anywhere else!

Do not hesitate to try the Larb, an emblematic dish of Laotian cuisine. It is a meat tartare mixed with lemon juice, fish sauce, chili, aromatic herbs, and spices. This traditional dish is enjoyed with sticky rice, cucumber, small eggplants, and green beans. Simply delicious.

5 - Climate of Laos

In the lower plains regions, Laos has a tropical climate, while the extreme northern mountainous areas experience a subtropical climate.

The country is affected by an irregular monsoon phenomenon, which never manifests with the same intensity or at exactly the same time each year.

However, one can distinguish winter from November to February, with dry and sunny weather, albeit with rather cool nights, and summer from March to October, hot and stifling, bringing its share of rain and humidity.

The months of March, April, and May, just before the arrival of the monsoon rains, are the hottest of the year with temperatures around 35°C throughout the country, even reaching peaks of 45°C in the North in April. Although still dry, this time of year can sometimes see heat storms. In May, temperatures decrease as the arrival of the monsoon, which is later in the northern part of the country, approaches.

6 - Entry Formalities to Laos

To travel to Laos, EU citizens need to apply for a visa.

All visa procedures for Laos can be carried out on site, upon your arrival at the airport. Just prepare 30 dollars and a passport photo.

You can also contact a local embassy in your country of residence to begin the procedure from outside Laos.

IV - THAILAND, The Quintessential Classic

Thailand, an indispensable classic of the peninsula, is undeniably one of the most beautiful countries in Asia. Nestled at the heart of Indochina, the "Land of Smiles" shares borders with four distinct countries: Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. This unique geographical feature makes it a crossroads of culture and civilization, resulting in the ethnic diversity that characterizes it.

Praised for its dreamy beaches, as well as its notorious and vibrant nightlife, Thailand remains a country of contrasting aspects, offering visitors much more than a superficial journey devoid of any real authenticity.

A stay in Thailand is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a plethora of paradisiacal islands in the south, observe elephants in the northern natural parks, visit ancient royal cities, and pay respects in the myriad of temples throughout the kingdom, before getting lost in the colorful hustle and bustle of Bangkok, the capital.

All these are compelling reasons to choose this well-tested destination for a first trip to Southeast Asia.

1 - Culture

Buddhism dominates the moral values and social cohesion of Thai society, with 95% of the population adhering to Theravada Buddhism, coexisting with a Muslim minority in the southern part of the country.

As devout religious practitioners, temples are naturally abundant in Thailand, and monks, who have taken vows of chastity, hold a high rank within the social hierarchy.

This ancient culture, forever influenced by migratory flows from neighboring countries like China, Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia, shares striking similarities with other Asian Buddhist societies: There is a very strong social and family hierarchy.

Thais are extremely patriotic and devoutly respect the royal family. This reverence for the country is evident through numerous flags displayed on public buildings, as well as the presence of photos depicting the monarchy inside every home.

Muay Thai, the national sport, is practiced by everyone from primary school and enjoys a popularity comparable to soccer in Western countries.

The most important celebration is the Thai New Year or Songkran, held from April 13 to 15, marking the start of summer in Thailand, where people joyously engage in the ritual of splashing water on passersby.

2 - The Beauty of the Landscapes

Bordered by the Andaman Sea to the west and the Gulf of Siam to the south, Thailand boasts exceptional islands with warm turquoise waters, the main ones being Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Koh Chang. All these coastal landscapes feature white sandy beaches framed by lush jungles.

The central plains, crossed by the estuaries of the Chao Phraya and numerous other rivers, are dotted with verdant rice paddies, giving a more rural aspect to the country.

In the northern part of the kingdom, the mountainous region of the fortified city of Chiang Mai with its numerous pagodas, as well as the verdant Pai valley housing multiple waterfalls and rivers, are true paradises for nature lovers.

3 - The Thais

The Thai people, the main ethnic group in Thailand, originated in South China in the 1st century AD before settling in what is now Thailand by the 11th century.

Thais are known for their displayed smiles, a sign of respect and politeness. Naturally quite proud, it is better to avoid causing a scene in the event of a disagreement to prevent them from losing face, which could be taken as an offense. Nevertheless, they are joyful, warm, and extremely welcoming people.

The crown of the head is considered a noble part of the body, so it is impolite to touch someone’s head, even in a friendly manner.

4 - Cuisine

Thai cuisine, with influences from Chinese, Indian, and even Burmese cuisines, is not uniform throughout the country. It offers a wide variety of tasty and healthy dishes, as well as many fried recipes for the delight of food lovers. Different dishes are often seasoned with sauces or fish essences, available on every table.

This highly spiced cuisine, with exquisite flavors of curry, coriander, lemongrass, mint, red basil, or coconut milk, enjoys increasing international popularity.

A harmonious diet with multiple influences, combining delicious ingredients at the heart of must-try dishes:

Pad Thai, a traditional dish of stir-fried noodles in a wok accompanied by beef or shrimp, small vegetables, and peanut powder.

Tom kha gai, a globally famous soup made from chicken, coconut milk, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, lemongrass, chili, and coriander.

Green curry, an explosion of flavors, consisting of chicken or beef immersed in coconut milk, flavored with kaffir lime leaves and fresh chilies.

Som tam, a spicy green papaya salad, thinly sliced and seasoned with garlic and fresh lime.

5 - Climate of Thailand

Thailand's climate is predominantly tropical, governed by the monsoon, except for the extreme southern part of the country along the Malaysian border, where it is equatorial.

There are mainly two seasons: the dry season from December to April and the rainy season from May to October, each subject to local variations due to the large extent of the territory and the diversity of its landscapes. March, April, and May are the hottest months with maximum temperatures reaching 36°C. The heat is less stifling from May to November during the rainy season. Despite the rain and storms, there are many hours of sunshine during the day. The ideal season undoubtedly extends from mid-November to mid-February, with mild temperatures, warm seas, and sunny skies.

6 - Entry Formalities to Thailand

Thailand allows citizens from 53 different countries, including France, Belgium, Switzerland, and Canada, visa-free access to its kingdom for a tourist stay of 30 days. Citizens eligible for this visa exemption must ensure that their passports remain valid for 6 months beyond their entry date into the country.

Due to the improvement of the health situation and in order to boost international tourism, Thai authorities have decided to extend the duration of the visa-free stay from 30 days to 45 days, from October 1, 2022, until March 31, 2023.

For tourist stays longer than those allowed by the exemption, it is necessary to apply for a tourist visa, either directly through the official government website: https://www.thaievisa.go.th/, allowing you to obtain an electronic visa online, or by approaching a local Thai embassy in your country of residence.

V - MYANMAR, A Hidden Treasure

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, has been under the rule of a Marxist dictatorship wielded by a military junta for several decades now.

Away from the usual tourist trails, this country remains relatively unknown to Western travelers, due in part to the recent opening of its borders.

A new Asian destination that attracts attention, Myanmar also raises many doubts and questions on various fronts. Yet, it is an extraordinary land of a thousand wonders, with the incomparable kindness of its people, making it truly worth visiting.

Characterized by the beauty of its varied landscapes and beautiful sandy beaches along warm sea waters, Myanmar holds hidden artistic treasures and exceptional Buddhist sites, previously concealed. Its rich cultural heritage, full of splendor, is not to be missed!

1 - Culture

Myanmar is a country steeped in traditions, strongly attached to its ancestral customs, where religion plays a predominant role in a puritanical and conservative society.

Today, about 90% of the population are Buddhists who believe in reincarnation and Karma, fervent practitioners of meditation and prayer. Although Myanmar theoretically recognizes the freedom of worship of Christian and Muslim religious minorities, these groups often face discrimination, especially in rural areas.

With one hundred thirty-five officially recognized ethnic groups, Myanmar displays a unique cultural diversity and richness. The major communities include the Karen, Shan, Bamar, Karenni, Mon, Kachin, Chin, and Rakhine.

Besides its official language, Burmese, Myanmar encompasses a mosaic of dialects influenced by Indo-European or Tibeto-Burman languages, spoken throughout the country. The Burmese writing style is derived from Indian characters mixed with ancient Burmese calligraphies.

Handicrafts constitute one of the most significant sources of income for the population, making it relatively easy to purchase a variety of handmade products such as clothing, adornments, jewelry, and decorative items.

However, it is advisable to avoid large markets frequented by most tourists. Opt instead for smaller shops off the beaten path, where you can find much more authentic items.

2 - The Beauty of the Landscapes

Still shrouded in mystery, Myanmar remains a land of untouched beauty and charm, offering a condensed version of the best landscapes Southeast Asia has to offer in one territory: virgin forests, snow-capped mountains, sublime beaches, as well as monuments and ancient cities, amazing relics of vibrant civilizations.

An adventure-scented journey awaits, discover the beaches of Chuang Thar or the golden pagodas of Bagan.

Inle Lake, nestled in the mountains and bordered by more than 70 villages, home to the Intha people, is undoubtedly one of the most authentic and stunning destinations in Asia.

Mount Popa, a volcano dormant for 1500 years rising over 1500 meters above sea level and overlooking the Mandalay region, is a popular destination in Myanmar. This lush province, with no fewer than 200 streams, is a sacred site for the local population and also a pilgrimage site.

3 - The Burmese

The Burmese are generally gentle and welcoming by nature, curious about interacting with foreigners, whom they are not yet accustomed to encountering in their country.

The 130 minorities sharing the territory, each with their own linguistic and cultural peculiarities, offer visitors a unique opportunity to discover a plethora of customs and traditions in one country during a single trip.

A common trait characterizes these diverse communities: the respect for elders and the strict observance of protocol.

4 - Cuisine

Burmese cuisine is influenced by Indian, Chinese, Thai cuisines, and reinterpreted by the culinary habits of local ethnic groups.

Typically based on rice and enhanced with curry, a traditional Burmese meal also includes poultry, lamb, shrimp, or fish, along with a light broth and several small vegetable dishes.

Beef is rarely found on plates, as it is forbidden for consumption, as is pork, which is considered unclean.

Ngapi, a salty fish or shrimp paste, is a common ingredient in Burmese cuisine, serving as a seasoning in most dishes.

Among the typical dishes to try during a trip to Myanmar are:

Laphet thoke, a tea leaf salad garnished with fried garlic cloves, soybeans, dried shrimp, tomatoes, peanuts, and roasted sesame seeds.

Shan noodles, one of the most popular dishes in Myanmar, a noodle soup made from wheat or rice noodles, accompanied by chicken and roasted peanut powder.

Mohinga, the national dish of Burma, a thick curry soup garnished with rice vermicelli, fish, eggs, crunchy peas, and flavored with garlic, onions, ginger, and lemongrass.

5 - Climate of Myanmar

In Myanmar, the tropical climate is characterized by two seasons:

The dry season, from October to February, offers sunny weather and pleasant temperatures. The period from February to May is generally the hottest across the country.

The rainy season, from May to October, experiences monsoon episodes from the Southwest. Heavy rains sometimes make certain sites inaccessible due to poor road conditions.

Regions around the river deltas record the highest annual precipitation rates, while the central regions are the driest in the country.

The northern part of the country is the coolest, with average temperatures around 21°C, while the coastal and delta provinces experience much hotter averages, around 32°C.

6 - Entry Formalities into Myanmar

To enter Myanmar, it is essential to have a visa and present a passport still valid for 6 months after your arrival, containing at least three blank pages.

The tourist visa for Myanmar is generally limited to a 28-day visit and remains valid for 3 months after its issue date.

You can either apply for an e-visa directly through the official Myanmar government website: https://evisa.moip.gov.mm/, which will guarantee access to the territory from the international airports of Yangon, Mandalay, and Naypyidaw, as well as certain land border posts.

Or, you can simply contact a local Myanmar embassy in your country of residence to start the visa application process.

We sincerely hope this information proves relevant and sparks your desire to discover all these fabulous countries, which, as you can see, despite their subtle differences, cultivate common values filled with humanity, promising warm welcomes, sincere smiles, kindness, and benevolence.

No matter which country you choose to explore first, it will undoubtedly captivate you and inspire you to return to visit the others. Southeast Asia awaits you eagerly, and we are delighted to organize the journey of your dreams!

For those still undecided, Tonkin Voyage Travel offers combined tours leading across the borders of the region.