Jeju Island is surrounded by a rich local culture quite distinct from the mainland. Here you can see statues made from
volcanic rock called dol hareubang – the name dol hareubang derives from the Korean word for “stone”, plus the Jeju dialect word hareubang, meaning “grandfather” or “senior” in Standard Korean, was coined in the mid-20th century.

Covering an area of 1833.2 kilometers Jeju Island is South Korea’s largest island. This popular island in South Korea is called the Hawaii of Korea. The island has many beautiful beaches, stunning places and plenty to do, and breathtaking scenery for relaxation.

One of the best islands in Southeast Asia, Jeju Island is stunning and has several beautiful landmarks you should not miss.

 

 

How to get to Jeju Island

Travel By Plane

Most travelers choose to get to the island by plane and you can get there from a few different airports in Korea, you just
have to figure out which airport is closest to you. Here are the airports that have an available trip to Jeju Island.

  • Gimpo Airport
  • Wonju Airport
  • Cheongju Airport
  • Gimhae Airport (Busan)

 

Travel By Ferry

It’s easy enough to get to on a ferry especially if you live down south. There are lots of options to choose from. You can book tickets before departure online. After booking a ticket online you need to check in at the ticketing booths to check your IDs.

Ticket booths close 10 minutes before departure even if you’ve reserved seats so make sure you’re there in time.
Walk-in passengers, they require to arrive at the passenger terminal at least 40 minutes before departure.
Passengers taking a car are asked to arrive 1-2 hours before departure.

Related: Cat Ba Island – Vietnam

 

Getting around the island

It’s easy to get to the island but once you’re there, you’ll probably want to rent a car if you want to see more and do
more of the adventure. If you don’t know how to drive or don’t plan on renting a car, just make sure you stay near
the sites you want to explore because buses are few and far between, you could potentially spend a ton of time waiting.

Here are some options if you want to get around the island:

  • Airport transfer
  • Rent a car
  • Private Car
  • Tour Services
  • Jeju City bus

 

Jeju City

Not so similar to other cities in Korea, Jeju City offers extremely inspiring and beautiful scenery. It is a convenient
place to stay as it’s near the airport and other attractions. Jeju City is a hub for transportation on the island and every bus will likely get to the city. The city has a ton of the best restaurants and cafes and pretty much everything you could want for an easy stay.

 

Jeju City Attractions

  • Yongduam Rock & Coastal Walk
  • Jeolmul Natural Recreation Forest
  • Jeju Horse Pastureland
  • Jeju Loveland
  • Jeju Museum of Art
  • Gwaneumsa Buddhist Temple

 

 

Where To Stay In Jeju City

  • Hotel Regentmarine The Blue
  • Maison Glad Jeju
  • Ramada Plaza Jeju Ocean Front
  • Hotel Nanta Jeju
  • Shilla Stay Jeju
  • LOTTE City Hotel Jeju

 

 

Where To Stay In Northwest Jeju

 

  • Jeju Marevo Resort
  • Aguila Hotel Jeju
  •  Jeju Sorang N Farms Village
  • Best Western Hotel Jeju=
  • Ramada by Wyndham Jeju City Hall

 

 

Things to do in Jeju Island South Korea

  • Visit Jeongbang Waterfalls
  • Experience cart riding at Wind 1947 Jeju Extreme Circuit
  • Discover the Oedolgae
  • Explore Jusangjeolli Hexagon Lava Cliff
  • Visit Jeju Folk Village
  • Enjoy Jeju Woman diver show\
  • Trek Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak
  • Explore Jeju Venice
  • Visit Teddy Bear Museum
  • Trek Mount Halla
  • Visit Hallim Park
  • Enjoy Play K-Pop Museum
  • Try Jeju Horseback Riding
  • Wander along Gwangchigi Beach
  • Try Korean Food
  • Discover Jeju Loveland

Belitung Island

 

Located in Indonesia, Southeast Asia, Bangka Belitung Island is a province situated off the southeastern coast of Sumatra, the province comprises two main islands, Belitung and Bangka, and numerous smaller ones. Bangka Belitung is bordered by the Bangka Strait to the west, the Natuna Sea to the north, the Java Sea is to the south, and the Karimata Strait to the east.

The highest point in the province and in the island of Bangka is Mount Maras, with a height of 699 meters. Several rivers can also be found on the island such as Sebuku River, Mendo River, and Baturusa River. The province is ethnically, culturally, and linguistically diverse major ethnic groups including Malays, Javanese, and Chinese.

 

Weather and Climate in Bangka Belitung Island

 

The moisture in Bangka Islands ranged from 77.4% to 87.3% with an average monthly reach of 83% in 2007. Rainfall measured around 58.3 to 476.3 mm (2.30 to 18.75 in) and air pressure is approximately 1010.1 MBS. The average temperature in the province reached 26.7°C (80.1 °F) with an average maximum temperature of 29.9°C (85.8 °F) in 2007. The maximum air temperature was highest in October.

The island has tropical climate influenced monsoons that are experiencing a wet month for seven months throughout the year and dry months for five months continuously.

 

 

How to get to the island

 

The Bangka Belitung Island can be reached by ferry or by air. The easiest way is to take a direct flight to Tanjung Pandan via air flights such as AirAsia and Sriwijaya Air. Flights are available from Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur with one-way prices for as low ask USD 30. Flight duration will take only 1-2 hours.

 

 

Getting around Bangka Belitung Island

 

Like the many other places and countries in Southeast Asia, the best way to get around Bangka Belitung Island is to
rent a scooter or hire a private car with a driver. The roads in Belitung are great for driving a motorbike and the
traffic is very light.

Street Taxi in Belitung is the only licensed taxi service on the island with a meter and is the only taxi you should
take. Airport taxis are also available, these are operated by local driers and will charge you a lot more. If you need
an airport pickup service, you need to call Street Taxi for booking before your arrival. Charges are between $5.70 to
$6, it’s a lot cheaper compared to an airport taxi.

 

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Where to stay in Belitung

  • Hotel Havana Mutiara
  • Swiss-Belresort Belitung
  • Hotel Fairfield By Mariott
  • Hotel Santika Premiere Beach Resort
  • Rahat Icon Hotel
  • BW Suite Belitung
  • Bukit Berahu Resort
  • Billiton Hotel and Klub

 

Must Visit Places in Bangka Belitung Island

  • Danau Kaolin
  • Pulau Lengkuas
  • Museum Kata Andrea Hirata\
  • Palau Batu Berlayar
  • Palau Batu Garuda
  • Pulau Kepayang
  • Pulau Pasir
  • Open Pit Kelapa Kampit
  • Bukit Berahu Beach
  • Serdang Beach
  • Penyabong Beach
  • Bukit Peramun
  • Kaolin Lake
  • Batu Baginda
  • Tanjung Pendam Beach
  • Tanjung Tinggi Beach

 

 

Where to eat in Belitung Island

  • What’s Up Cafe
  • Warung Bizza
  • Kamping Dedau
  • La Terase
  • Tarsius Coffee
  • Mutiara Resto
  • Pantai Teluk Gembira

 

Is Bangka Belitung Safe?

The answer is YES! Many tourists spent their vacations here and claim that Bangka Belitung is one of the safest places
to stay in Asia. Indonesia is a low-crime country in general.

 

Other helpful information

Cell Service: Local SIM cards have good signal or reception in Tanjung Pandan and anywhere on the island

WiFi: Most places on the island have decent WiFi, especially in most hotels

Credit Cards: Most restaurants and hotels on the island accept cards

ATM: There are plenty of ATM machine in Tanjung Pandan. Foreign cards work fine.

 

Sipadan Island Travel Guide - Malaysia

 

Located in Southeast Asia, Sipadan is the only oceanic island in Malaysia, rising 600 meters from the seabed. Sipadan is located in the Celebes Sea off the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia. The iconic Sipadan Island is home to many species of marine life.

Formed by living corals on top of an extinct volcanic cone that looks thousands of years to develop. It is home to more than 400 species of fish and hundreds of corals species classified in this ecosystem.

Sipadan Island is one of the top destinations for divers around the world. The island is a home of the beautiful species like green and hawksbill turtles, enormous schools of barracuda, bumphead parrotfish, and many more.

 

 

Weather Condition

 

 

Sipadan Island is known for its paradise-like nature for divers. The weather is great year-round, especially for divers
but conditions vary with the time of the year.

Conditions are best between Mid-February and July or September until November when the visibility is best and conditions are settled. Visibility during these months ranges between 12 and 30 meters.

The days are usually sunny and hot and the seas are usually calm. Experienced Sipadan tourists and divers claim that March through June are the best months for diving.

 

Suggested Article:
Malaysia Backpacking Guide 2022

 

 

How to Get to Sipadan Island

 

Sipadan is reachable only by boat at the end of a journey involving air, land, and sea. The nearest airport from the Sipadan Island is the Tawau Airport in Sabah, Malaysia, and the other airport is Kota Kinabalu International Airport.

From either of these two airports, you have to travel to Semporna Island. You can take buses, minivans, and personal cabs waiting at the airports, a drive from Tawau Airport to Semporna Island will take up to 90 minutes. And from Semporna Island, you have a changeover to ferry boats that will get you to Mabul Island.

 

 

Where to Stay?

Staying comfortably in a resort is a great experience during your stay in Sipadan Island. Here is the list of resorts which
you can pick one that offers great service and hospitality.

 

1. Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort

Occupying chalets in wood stilts built over the best view of the sea, this laid-bak resort with a dive center sits on the
edge of the sandbar of Kapalai. A breakfast buffet is served in a rustic open-air restaurant. There’s also a furnished
sundeck. The on-site dive center offers trips, gear, and courses.

 

2. Sipadan Water Village

The luxurious beds and private spa pools, the resort is one of the best resorts on Sipadan Island. Spending someday in
Sipadan Water Village will leave you the best memories, the best place to chill and unwind.

 

3. Sipadan Mabul Resort

The iconic resort has provisions of water bungalows and chalets. Well equipped to give tourists the best satisfaction while on the island. The resort has an eye-catching ambiance and decors in beautiful surroundings. The wooden bungalows are a bit wider than the duplex chalets with a great view.

 

 

Things to do in Sipadan Island

Sipadan Island will bring you an unforgettable experience of adventure activities like water sports that you can indulge in. Here are the things you can do during your stay at Sipadan Island

  1. Scuba Diving

  2. Sipadan Liveaboard

  3. Snorkeling

  4. Bird watching

  5. Swimming

 

Asia is a continent that is home to beautiful natural landscapes, unique cultures, ancient architecture, and food. If you are looking for an island getaway, Asia is the perfect choice for you. Here is our list of the Best Islands in Asia.

 

Top 10  Most Beautiful Islands in Asia

Top 10 Beautiful Islands in Asia

 

 

Want to travel on budget? Checkout!

CHEAPEST PLACES TO TRAVEL TO IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

 

1. Sipadan Island, Malaysia

 

Sipadan Island is located on the northeast coast of Malaysia Borneo, Sabah. When you visit Sipadan Island, scuba diving is one of the things that you must not miss. It is described as one of the ideal and top rankings for scuba diving spots. Sipadan Island is well-known for its incredible marine life.

In 1933, this island was declared as a bird sanctuary by the government of North Borneo. You simply should not miss spotting amazing birds, such as Sunbirds, Sea Eagles, colorful Kingfishers, and many other exotic birds. You will find it fun to enjoy a snorkeling experience in the fascinating deep-sea waters of this amazing island. 

Best Time To Visit: March to October
Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, bird-watching.

 

 

2. Similan Islands, Thailand

 

Similan Islands are also known as Koh Similan is one of the largest archipelago islands in Asia. Similan Islands are made up of 9 granite islands located Northwest of Phuket in the Andaman Sea. The islands were declared as Mu Ko Similan National Park in 1982 and ranked as one of the best scuba diving destinations in Asia.

It is a paradise for scuba divers and beach lovers with its turquoise clear water, fine white sand, breathtaking marine life, and impressive rock formations. You may spot various amazing marine species like small sharks, sea turtles, Nemo fishes, or sea snakes. If you wish to stay longer in Similan Islands, you can book an overnight liveaboard trip.

You can also hike various nature trails that lead you to a stunning view over the island, bay, and sea. Relaxing on the fine white sand beach while observing the wildlife like monkeys, bats, squirrels, and a large variety of birds.

Best time to visit: October to May
Activities: Snorkelling, deep-sea diving, trekking, liveaboard, relaxing on the beach.

 

 

3. Cat Ba Island, Vietnam

 

Cat Ba Island is the largest of the 367 islands of the Cat Ba Archipelago in Hai Phong city. Lan Ha Bay is still less popular among tourists, you can go kayak or hop on the public ferry while enjoying the unspoiled nature and exploring the breathtaking landscape.

Another favorite thing to do is make a stop at the Monkey Island or known as Cat Dua Island. Cat Ba National Park is a must-visit place when traveling to Cat Ba Island, the home to a wide range of flora and fauna. You can also enjoy the beauty of the vast landscapes and seascapes.

If you are interested in Vietnamese history, you should visit the Hospital Cave which is the underground bomb-proof hospital, and as a hideout during the war.

Cannon Fort was built as a naval defense and has now become the best place to witness the view of Lan Ha Bay. Viet Hai fishing village and Cai Beo Floating Village it’s definitely a must-see spot to see around Cat Ba.

Best time to visit: February to April
Activities: Rock climbing, trekking, kayak, visit the national park, explore floating villages, enjoy eating seafood.

 

 

4. Siargao Island, the Philippines

 

Siargao Island is one of the most popular destinations in the Philippines and is well-known for being the Philippiness’ surfing destination. Cloud 9 is the most famous spot and is considered one of the best surf spots in the world.

The boardwalk is the perfect place to watch pro surfers and to watch the sunset. You should not miss out on the island hopping tours to Naked Island, Guyam Island, and Daku Island. Siargao Island is home to many unspoiled islands that has powdery white sand beaches, stunning islands, and crystal clear water.

Sugba Lagoon’s crystal clear water became a popular spot for diving, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and cliff jumping. Magpupungko Rock Pools is another attraction you shouldn’t leave out of your Siargao trip.

Best time to visit: March to May / July and November (surfing season).
Activities: Surfing, island hopping, diving, paddle boarding, snorkeling, cliff jumping.

 

 

5. Bangka Belitung Island, Indonesia

 

Belitung island is located east coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. It’s surrounded by lots of tiny islands and granite rock formations. The islands are blessed with beautiful white sand beaches, crystal clear water, incredible marine life, and colorful coral reefs.

Danau Kaolin is an abandoned kaoline or white clay mine with bright blue water with white sandy dunes that have become a photogenic hotspot for travelers and photographers. Spend your time relaxing on yachts or cruise ships while enjoying local cuisine and drinks at Tanjung Kelayang.

There is an iconic ancient Dutch lighthouse on Lengkuas Island, you can climb up to the tower to enjoy the panoramic view of the island or go for a snorkeling swim alongside all kinds of fish. Hop onto the next island, Batu Berlayar Island known for its granite rocks which can be reached by boat in just 10 minutes from Lengkuas Island.

It is well known for its resembled sailing ship granite rocks. When you visit Belitung, do not miss to try their famous Manggar Coffee that is not only loved by tourists but also locals.

Best time to visit: April to October
Activities: Snorkelling, diving, islands hopping, enjoy local cuisines, hop on yacht or cruise ship, enjoy Manggar Coffee.

 

 

6. Orchid Island, Taiwan

 

Orchid Island is also known as Lanyu is located off the southeastern coast of the main island of Taiwan. The island is the home of the Yami people which are also known as Tao indigenous tribes. For those interested in seeing the indigenous tribes’ culture of Taiwan, there’s no better place than Orchid Island where the Tao has lived for hundreds of years.

If you visit at the right time, you can witness the Flying Fish Festival, the Millet Harvest Festival, or the Boat Launching Festival. The underwater beauty of corals and marine life have made Orchid Island the best scuba diving spot.

If you are lucky, you will encounter humpback whales and green sea turtles. You can rent and ride a scooter around the island to check out the amazing rock formations sights and caves along the coast. It definitely offers a unique experience in Taiwan.

Best time to visit: April to October
Activities: Snorkelling, diving, riding around the island, admiring rock formations and caves, exploring caves, enjoying local cuisines, seeing and experiencing the indigenous tribe culture.

 

 

7. Jeju Island, South Korea

 

Jeju Island, Korea’s favorite domestic holiday destination for local and international travelers. Jeju is a place full of stunning nature, scenic landscapes, museums, parks, and great food. A trip to Jeju isn’t complete without hiking up to Seongsan Ilchulbong or “Sunrise Peak” to watch the sunrise over the sea. Hiking Hallasan Mountain is an experience that adventure lovers won’t regret.

The UNESCO-listed Manjanggul Lava-Tube Cave is one of the most visited landmarks. You can watch the Haeneyo (female free-diver who mostly are over 60) that make a living by catching abalone, sea urchin, sea cucumber, or octopus.

Jeju Loveland is a sex-themed sculpture outdoor park that provides a proper approach to sex culture and it is decorated with a lot of beautiful artworks. You are recommended to visit the park when the weather is good. Jeju Natural Stone Art Museum is one of the must-visit museums in Jeju Island. If you are a foodie, you must try the authentic food and local specialties when you visit Jeju Island.

Best time to visit: November to May
Activities: Snorkelling, diving, trekking, watching sunrise or sunset, exploring caves, enjoying local cuisines, visiting museums and parks, enjoying local food.

 

 

8. Havelock Island, India

 

White sands, crystal clear waters, serene mangroves – these are words that one would often associate with beaches in Havelock Island. Havelock Island or Swaraj Dweep is located about 70 km north of the capital city, Port Blair.

The rich and diverse marine life of Havelock Island has always been one of the major factors to attract people who love snorkeling, scuba diving, and beach lovers. Paddle through a mangrove forest in a kayak to observe local flora and fauna.

You can hop on a seaplane or ferry to witness the only active volcano in India at Barren Island. For those who are looking for rest and relaxation, the trip must not miss visiting Neil Island which is known as the “Vegetable Bowl” of Andamans because the rich ecosystem has numerous species of fishes, sea creatures, and coral reefs, and pristine beaches.

Long Island is a perfect destination for nature lovers who might love to do forest camping, beach camping, trekking, and exploring the local art and culture. Visit the beaches on Havelock Island to watch the magnificent sunrise or sunset views be an ideal choice for newlyweds or couples.

Best time to visit: March to May
Activities: Snorkelling, scuba diving, kayak, witnessing the active volcano, exploring and relaxing on beaches, watching sunrise or sunset, camping, trekking.

 

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9. Ubin Island, Singapore

 

Ubin Island or Pulau Ubin is a hotspot for those who want to escape from the bustle of urban life in Singapore. Pulau Ubin is one of the last remaining villages or kampung and an abandoned quarry that offer lush greenery and abundant wildlife.

You will spot some wild animals like monkeys, hornbills, bats, owls, wild boars when going on a bike tour around the island. If you love kayaking, go on a kayak tour to explore the mangrove forest. If you are lucky, you will get to spot some wild animals such as otters, monitor lizards, kingfishers, and even dolphins.

Chek Jawa is one of Singapore’s richest natural ecosystems, filled with all kinds of flora and fauna across six different habitats. You can walk through the boardwalk and explore the marine wildlife along the trails. Climb up the 20-meter tall Jejawi Tower for panoramic views. There’re plenty of other things to do in the area as well

Best time to visit: January to October
Activities: Kayak, go for a bike tour, explore the marine animals, camping, trekking.

 

 

10. Koh Rong Island, Cambodia

 

Koh Rong Island is the largest in Ream National Park, Cambodia. The national park is a biodiversity hotspot, there are thousands of species of flora and fauna. The iconic Koh Rong is home to many species of marine life making it an ideal destination for all marine lovers.

You can go to the Koh Rong Dive Center where you can either learn fun dives or PADI training courses. Kayaking over to the Koh Toch is another highlight on the island. Those adventure lovers can go jungle trekking, wildlife spotting, and test their nerves at the High Point Rope Park.

In Koh Rong, you can see the amazing natural phenomenon is the bioluminescent plankton on the beach at night. You can either relax on the beach while enjoying the sea breeze and views or try on the Blob Jump at the Tree House Bungalow. Koh Rong Island also offers an exciting nightlife scene that will enhance your night-outs when here.

Best time to visit: May to November
Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, kayak, jungle trekking, exploring the marine life, camping, trekking, nightlife.