New Discoveries in Southeast Asia

Koror, the commercial capital of Palau, is the gateway to the UNESCO-listed Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, home to over 700 coral species, the legendary Blue Corner dive site, and the unique stingless Jellyfish Lake. Must-dos include diving or snorkelling the Rock Islands, visiting the Belau National Museum's carved storyboards, and tasting freshest tuna sashimi. November through May offers the driest weather and peak underwater visibility exceeding 30 metres.

Bohol in the Philippines is famed for its otherworldly Chocolate Hills, the tiny Philippine tarsier, and four centuries of Spanish colonial heritage epitomised by the historic Sandugo blood compact. Must-dos include the Loboc River cruise, snorkelling Balicasag Island's coral walls, and sampling kinilaw fresh fish at Tagbilaran's markets. February through May offers the driest weather for exploring this Visayan gem.

El Nido and Puerto Princesa are the twin gateways to Palawan's extraordinary landscapes of limestone karst islands, hidden lagoons, and the UNESCO-listed Underground River. Must-dos include kayaking into the Big and Small Lagoons of Bacuit Bay, snorkelling with sea turtles, and feasting on grilled seafood and kinilaw Philippine ceviche. November through May for the driest conditions, with January-April ideal for island-hopping in this consistently top-ranked destination.

Still whispered as Saigon by its ten million residents, Ho Chi Minh City pulses with an energy that outlasted every empire and every war. The French colonial grandeur of Notre-Dame Cathedral and Gustave Eiffel's Central Post Office stands in vivid counterpoint to the city's kinetic street life — an endless river of motorbikes, fragrant with pho broth and charcoal-grilled meats. Do not miss the Reunification Palace, a time capsule of Cold War modernism, or a dawn bowl of bánh mì from a sidewalk vendor. The dry season, November through April, offers the most comfortable conditions for exploration.

Da Nang is a dynamic Vietnamese coastal city where pristine My Khe Beach, the cave-studded Marble Mountains, and bold central Vietnamese cuisine create one of Southeast Asia's most exciting destinations. Must-dos include climbing the Marble Mountains' Buddha-filled grottoes, savouring turmeric-tinted mi Quang noodles, and taking a day trip to UNESCO-listed Hoi An. February through August offers the driest, most pleasant weather.

Founded on a dragon's auspice in 1010 AD, Hanoi is Southeast Asia's most historically layered capital — a city where French colonial boulevards wrap around ancient temple islands and where the morning ritual of phở bò at a pavement stall carries the weight of a thousand years of tradition. Venture to Halong Bay's limestone karst seascape or explore the lantern-lit lanes of Hội An via nearby Chan May. October through April brings dry, pleasant weather ideal for exploring Vietnam's storied north.

Hong Kong's port is a vibrant gateway to a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures, characterized by its stunning skyline and bustling atmosphere. Must-do experiences include savoring local dim sum and exploring the lively markets. The best season to visit is during the autumn months, when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor adventures.