What have tourists traveling around Southeast Asia for the past 15 years written about Ho Chi Minh City?

Andre Neveling, a South African traveler, has been traveling solo across Southeast Asia for the past 15 years, and these are three cities he would always want to introduce to the world, and one city he would absolutely say no to.

In an article in the American newspaper Business Insider , Andre Neveling shared: "My first trip to Southeast Asia in 2010 was a completely new experience. It sparked a desire to explore the world , and 15 years later, having visited 38 countries, I've come to a simple conclusion: Nowhere else offers such fascinating diversity and appeal as Southeast Asia. I've returned many times, often alone."

Through years of solo travel , I've realized that every country has its own unique charm, but some destinations become lifelong loves, while others gradually lose their appeal. Based on my experience, here are three cities I'd recommend to fellow travelers, and one that, sadly, I now advise you to skip.

Andre Neveling bathes elephants in Phuket.

PHOTO: PROVIDED BY THE SUBJECT

Phuket, Thailand: An ideal destination for both tranquility and vibrancy.

Bangkok may boast being the most visited city in the world, but Phuket offers the quintessential Thai experience. It was my first Asian destination, and it left such a profound impression that I eventually called it home.

Despite its reputation as a popular tourist destination, I never get tired of it. For a solo traveler, Phuket's diversity is what makes it special. You can find peace in the villages nestled in the Kamala jungle, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Patong, wander through the colorful Sino-Portuguese-style shophouses of the old town, or explore the nearby Koh Phi Phi island.

Over the years, Phuket has become my haven. Whenever I needed to relax – including during the final stages of the pandemic, when my mental health suffered – this was where I went to be alone.

The turquoise waters of Kuang Si Falls, a series of pools cascading deep within the Luang Prabang jungle.

Luang Prabang, Laos: A spiritual retreat

Luang Prabang had long been on my wish list, and when I finally visited, it exceeded all expectations. This UNESCO World Heritage town, situated at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, offers the perfect balance of serenity, natural beauty, and rich culture.

As a solo traveler, I found much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town's café scene makes it an ideal spot for digital nomads to work and connect. One of my most memorable moments was taking a leisurely boat ride on the Mekong River.

During my visit in 2018, I woke up before dawn to witness the sacred Alms-Giving Ceremony. Hundreds of monks in saffron robes silently paraded through the streets as locals and tourists donated food. This ritual is believed to create good karma for this life and the next.

Andre Neveling looked down at downtown Ho Chi Minh City through the window.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Vibrant energy and unexpected perks.

Vietnam is rapidly becoming a popular tourist destination, even surpassing Thailand for the first time this year in attracting visitors from the Chinese market. Vietnam's largest city, Ho Chi Minh City, is a bustling yet charming metropolis that instantly captured my heart.

In a city as vibrant as this, I've never felt lonely. On my first visit, I took a street food tour, which included stalls where I cooked my own food. I even learned how to make banh xeo – a savory crepe filled with shrimp or meat and bean sprouts, then wrapped in fresh herbs.

This city also offers practical benefits for long-stay tourists. Vietnamese medical clinics operate to high standards but at a fraction of the prices in the West. I had dental work done, specialist checkups, and even Botox injections there. Everything was very affordable and excellent.

The author under the Kuala Lumpur Twin Towers

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: A city that has lost its vitality.

My first trip to Kuala Lumpur, on my first trip to Southeast Asia, left me captivated by its vibrant yet sophisticated energy. I explored the city on foot, shopping and partying to the point of almost missing my flight. So, when I returned in 2023, I was shocked. The Kuala Lumpur I knew was a mere shadow of its former self.

Recently, Malaysia has been trending towards greater conservatism, tightening regulations on concerts and nightlife to align with cultural and religious values. Several international shows have been canceled, and bars face stricter restrictions on serving alcoholic beverages and late opening hours.

I respect local customs, but I didn't expect things to have changed so much. After five years living in the Middle East, I actually find Kuala Lumpur more restrictive than Dubai or Abu Dhabi – something I never expected.

I am grateful for having experienced this city, but now it is just an empty echo of a vibrant past – a past I have no intention of returning to anytime soon.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/du-khach-vong-quanh-dong-nam-a-suot-15-nam-viet-gi-ve-tphcm-185251024133610404.htm