Your 20s is probably the best time to be adventurous and spontaneous—to set off on your own, see the world, discover new things, and maybe make a new friend or two along the way. But going on a journey of self-growth and love doesn’t have to be a huge ordeal that takes you thousands of miles away from home for several months. It can be as simple as taking a three- to four-hour flight to a nearby destination that has just as much to offer your soul as it does your Instagram feed. Explore places you haven’t seen on everyone’s #wanderlust posts, and check out these beautiful, underrated places around Asia.
HO CHI MINH, VIETNAM
i.d Cafe
i.d Cafe offers a peaceful and IG-worthy environment right in the middle of the bustling capital. Start the day with a fresh cup of hot cà phê, or cool down with a cup of cà phê Ä‘á. Either way, your coffee-loving millennial heart will be satisfied!
Saigon Outcast
Nestled beside the Saigon River, this art-centric venue holds live music gigs, art exhibits, flea markets, and outdoor movie screenings. There’s always something worthwhile to see here, so pay a visit if you want to be surprised!
JAKARTA, INDONESIA
Sangiang Island
Do you want to go on an underwater adventure? It doesn’t matter whether you’re an avid diver or a first-timer; you’ll enjoy diving in Sangiang Island. Go for a swim with sea turtles and exotic fish. Though it’s technically not in Jakarta, the island is just a two-hour drive or a one-hour boat ride from the capital.
Jaya Pub
The Jaya Pub is one of Jakarta’s oldest bars, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less hip. There are live performances every night, and you can even take the stage and sing your heart out if you’re up to it. It’s time to let loose, CGs!
BALI, INDONESIA
Ambar Ashram
If you’ve been curious to try laughter yoga, this might be your chance to finally experience it yourself. With lush rice terraces as your view, you’ll be able to unwind and clear your mind. And it’s best to try it while you can still do all those stretches!
Warung Nasi Bali Men Weti
A local breakfast favorite, Nasi Bali Men Weti is a small, streetside restaurant that offers authentic Balinese dishes. Try the local favorite nasi campur ayam, a mixed rice dish with chicken. Don’t fret if you have a limited budget since most meal options cost just around P150 for two people.
Convinced to fly to one of these cities? AirAsia now flies to and from Ho Chi Minh, and will start offering flights to and from Jakarta starting January 9, 2018, and Bali beginning January 19, 2018! The Malaysian carrier offers some of the most ideal fares online, which means you won’t have to spend a bulk of your budget on your airfare. Check the flight schedules below, get planning, and set off on your own journey!
MANILA-SAIGON
Route | Flight No. | Time | Frequency |
MNLSGN | Z2 294 | 23:25 to 1:05 +1 | Tues, Fri, Sun |
SGNMNL | Z2 295 | 1:35 to 5:15 | Mon, Wed, Sat |
Inaugural Flight: November 17, 2017.
MANILA-BALI
Route | Flight No. | Time | Frequency |
MNLDPS | Z2 231 | 18:40 - 22:55 | Daily |
DPSMNL | Z2 232 | 23:20 - 3:25 +1 | Daily |
Inaugural Flight: January 19, 2018.
MANILA-JAKARTA
Route | Flight No. | Time | Frequency |
MNLCGK | Z2 235 | 8:00 - 11:00 | Daily |
CGKMNL | Z2 236 | 11:30 - 16:45 | Daily |
Inaugural Flight: January 9, 2018.
For more information, visit AirAsia.com or visit their Facebook page.
*Main image photo credit to April Duran