Exploring Southeast Asia’s Diverse Societies and Economies: A Traveler’s Guide

Exploring Southeast Asia’s Diverse Societies and Economies: A Traveler’s Guide

No other place on earth offers such a striking melange of cultures and raw diversity as does the economies of Southeast Asia – part of the largest continent by population and bridging east and west with some truly stunning visages. Between Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, the Philippines, Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and East Timor is a 4.5-million-square-kilometre swath of globe unequalled in economic and societal cross-currents. That makes this part of the world an agreeable and alluring place for the armchair traveler interested in the actual cultures left behind by the information overwhelmed and superficial business traveler. Southeast Asia also enjoys a great and very decent deal for the perennially cost-conscious backpacker. Often travellers to countries in this region are not as interested in each country’s economy as they are in enjoying the nation’s culture and cuisines. Understanding the economies of the 10 countries that make up Southeast Asia, or ‘sea’ as it is sometimes called (Indonesia today a resident, which of course makes it just one country), might pique the interest of some, but for many, not at all.

Myanmar: An Emerging Economy

Myanmar’s economy is still developing, with most people working in agriculture and extractive industries. Opening its doors to tourism and international trade in recent years has made the country’s cities such as Yangon charge full steam ahead in development, while the countryside retains its traditional roots. For travellers hoping to enjoy its history and epic temples, the costs are surprisingly low, but it is a slower pace of life in terms of infrastructure and services.

Travel Tip: Bring enough cash, as ATMs are less common, especially in rural areas.

Laos: Land of Tranquility

Life here is slow and relaxed, and everything carries a relaxed pace that makes it a hell of a place for those on a budget. Agriculture is the backbone of the economy with rice fishing as the top money earner, followed by hydro power exports, but rates of exports are on the rise as the country follows an example set by its neighbours. Being one of the countries in the region with the least developed economy also means cheap prices of accommodations and activities, but also translates the escapism into the welcoming people and relaxed natural landscapes.

Travel Tip: Stay in eco-lodges and local guesthouses. Doing so supports local and Indigenous communities — plus, eco-lodges are usually the most affordable digs.

Vietnam: Economic Star on the Rise

In recent years, the Communist nation of Vietnam has become one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia. Its export-driven rise has been fuelled in particular by manufacturing, electronics and agriculture, and is reflected in its two largest cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh. Skyscrapers mixed with traditional markets together, and the economic boom has also improved Vietnam’s infrastructure when it comes to tourism as well. Travel in the country has also become much more comfortable than a generation ago, while most of it still affords a budget-friendly experience for all types of visitors. It has a vast, interesting history, great street food and incredible countryside.

Travel Tip: Cheap and cheerful, Vietnam has an easily navigated railway and bus network (don’t miss the street food for which it’s renowned).

Thailand: The Tourist Hub

Next-door, Thailand has long been the region’s tourism leader, and the first stop for most visitors travelling in Southeast Asia. Thailand draws heavily on tourism and its manufacturing and agricultural sectors to prop up its economy, and it is a place where you feel you can truly ‘do’ Asia. From the labyrinthine cityscapes to the idyllic, postcard-perfect islands, Thailand offers something for everyone, at every price. A well-developed tourist infrastructure provides opportunities for the backpacker but also caters to the luxury tourist.

Travel Tip: For a more genuinely ‘Thai’ experience – and for lower prices – move beyond typical tourist hotspots such as Phuket and Bangkok.

Cambodia: Steeped in History

The architecture and historical aspects that Cambodia is known for, especially the ruins at Angkor Wat, are the mainstay. The economy also revolves around tourism, (explaining the popularity of the temple sites), garment manufacturing (however, not the land mines), and agriculture. Since Cambodia is still developing, travel there is cheap – especially if you are a history buff. History – check. Great culture – check. Affordable? You bet.

Top Places To Stay: To keep expenses in check, it’s safer to stay in local sapha raed (guesthouses) or a hostel; tuk-tuks are affordable forms of travel.

The Philippines: Islands and Innovation

Comprised of more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines has a service-driven economy built on business process outsourcing and remittances from its many workers abroad. But it is also one of the world’s most beautiful countries – from its vast stretches of white sand to its lush jungles – made for travellers enamoured with island hopping and the outdoors. While the capital Manila is home to nearly 15 million residents, and Cebu is a city in itself, most travellers flock to the islands and the culture – equal parts modern and traditional.

Top tip: fly – or ferry – between islands, and stay in a homestay for local charm.

Brunei: Wealthy and Serene

High oil and gas exports give Brunei one of the highest per capita GDPs in Southeast Asia, but the mainland has long been a backwater by comparison to its neon-filled neighbours. Islamic culture forms the central pillar of Bruneian life and society, but thanks to its strict reputation and higher prices compared with much of Southeast Asia, tourism here remains behind the curve. Visitors can investigate sweeping, virgin rainforests, opulent mosques, and a palatial architectural style that’s all its own.

Tip for Travellers: Plan ahead, because options for accommodation can be scarce and more expensive than you’d think.

Singapore: The Financial Giant

Enterprise goes hand in hand with signature attractions and iconic structures. From Circular Road to Orchard Road, Singapore is a rapidly developing, highly developed and recently universally hailed metropolis and a leading global financial centre. As with any of the world’s truly international cities, the cost of living in Singapore compared with those of its neighbours is markedly higher – but quality amenities, modern infrastructure and a unique blend of cultures make it an enticing destination and one of the world’s safest metropolises for travel. It might not be your first voyage, but a trip to Singapore is a smooth one, with all arrival and departure formalities running without incident, and timescales that are enviably easy to navigate. No matter whether you explore its five high-end shopping districts, or its culturally nostalgic neighbourhoods, nowhere else does old meet new with quite such contrast as Singapore.

Travel Tip: Use public transport, which is affordable and extremely efficient, to get around.

Malaysia: A Blend of Cultures

Malaysia enjoys general prosperity thanks to a broad-based economy with strong elements in manufacturing, tourism and the natural resources sector Typically divided between peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo, its cities have a reputation for being cut-price versions of other modern Asian metropolises like Bangkok and Singapore. But Malaysia is far more than just cities and commerce – it could just as easily be called peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo. The incredible biological diversity of the jungles and life outside the major cities make it feel significantly different to Southeast Asia’s other urban powerhouses. Kuala Lumpur is a busy city with an abundance of well-priced hostels and quite mild yet monsoon-drenched city weather, but get out to the islands or head higher into the mountains, and you’ll find a digital nomad’s paradise of simple organic food, hot springs, rainforest treks and laid-back ambience. Malaysia is still one of the most affordable backpacking destinations on Earth, but that doesn’t mean you should stick to the beaten track. Incredible scenery and the diversity of the landscapes mean that there’s enough variety on offer here to keep you busy for years.

Traveller’s Tip: Street meat’s the best bargain in cities such as Penang and Kuala Lumpur.

Indonesia: The Giant of Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia’s largest economy, Indonesia is a collection of disparate islands with a melting-pot culture and beautiful countryside. Spread across a sprawling archipelago, it is best known for the capital Jakarta, the surfing mecca of the Bukit peninsula in Bali, and the cultural epicentre of Yogyakarta, but has much more to offer. Whatever your tastes, Indonesia can make for a great getaway.

Travel Tip: Travel by budget airlines between islands and venture off the beaten track for unique experiences for a fraction of the cost of Bali’s accommodation.

East Timor: Untouched and Unspoiled

East Timor, known since 2002 as Timor-Leste after it won independence from Indonesia, is still one of south-east Asia’s poorest economies. Oil and coffee exports are the main economic drivers, while tourism is still in its infancy. For the adventurous traveller, this unspoilt beauty is still free from the crowds that flock to countries such as Bali. You can still explore wild and rugged mountains, rocky rainforest-clad coasts, or pristine beaches to make your own.

Travelling Tip: Schedule ahead. Many infrastructure developments are ongoing, so plan accordingly. Also, get ready to travel in … rustic style.

Final Thoughts

The contrasts encountered in this diverse region – economically, culturally, geographically – are no less evident. Starting from the bargain of the century when visiting certain destinations, to being mesmerised by the pace of development in some of the glittering economic powerhouses across the region, there is much to choose from Southeast Asia for the traveller. Experiencing the diversity of a place and relating it to the way people live, work and celebrate their lives, is all part of the experience of seeing how these economies function.