Dreaming of an unforgettable multi-country adventure across Southeast Asia and beyond? This complete travel guide covers Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Sri Lanka, and Turkey—five diverse destinations offering rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, world-famous cuisine, and deep historical roots. Designed for backpackers, long-term travelers, and budget explorers, this guide includes visa information, transport tips, hidden gems, food experiences, and itinerary planning to help you travel smarter and deeper.
Before starting a multi-country Asia trip, understanding visa rules is essential. Thankfully, most travelers can now apply through online eVisa systems, making the process fast and convenient.
Most travelers need a Vietnam eVisa, usually processed within 3–5 business days. It allows a 30-day stay, ideal for exploring Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
Many nationalities can apply online for a Turkey eVisa, perfect for visiting Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and the Mediterranean coast.
Sri Lanka offers an easy eVisa system for tourists planning beach holidays, cultural exploration, or wildlife safaris.
Travelers visiting Angkor Wat or Luang Prabang can use the Cambodia eVisa and Laos eVisa, simplifying entry through major airports and border points.
Pro Travel Tip: Visit Southeast Asian countries first, then continue to Sri Lanka and Turkey to optimize visa validity and reduce flight costs.
Vietnam blends ancient traditions with modern energy. Experience water puppet shows in Hanoi, cooking classes in Hoi An, ethnic minority villages in Sapa, and historical sites like the Cu Chi Tunnels.
Vietnam is one of the easiest countries for budget travel:
· Sleeper buses and trains (Reunification Express)
· Grab motorbike taxis
· Local buses and minivans
For adventure lovers, riding the Hai Van Pass is unforgettable.
Beyond the classics:
· Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park
· Da Lat hill station
· Mekong Delta homestays
· Ban Gioc Waterfall
Must-try dishes:
· Pho and banh mi
· Bun cha (Hanoi specialty)
· Bun bo Hue
· Fresh seafood in Phu Quoc
Tip: Join a local street food tour for hidden gems.
Cambodia’s heritage reflects both the grandeur of the Khmer Empire and modern resilience. Visit Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh’s historical museums, and local monasteries for deeper understanding.
· Comfortable buses between cities
· Tuk-tuks for short distances
· Express boats between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh
· Kampot & Kep (relaxed riverside towns)
· Koh Rong Samloem (quiet island beaches)
· Mondulkiri (nature & ethical elephant sanctuaries)
· Preah Vihear Temple
· Fish amok
· Kampot pepper crab
· Num banh chok
· Tropical fruits from local markets
Laos is known for its peaceful pace and Buddhist traditions. Witness the morning alms-giving ceremony in Luang Prabang and explore traditional weaving villages.
· Mekong River slow boat
· Minivans for long routes
· Cycling in cities like Luang Prabang and Vientiane
· Nong Khiaw
· Kong Lor Cave
· Si Phan Don (4000 Islands)
· Phou Hin Boun National Park
· Sticky rice
· Larb (national dish)
· Lao BBQ
· River weed snacks
Sri Lanka combines Buddhist heritage, colonial history, and vibrant festivals. Highlights include Kandy Esala Perahera, ancient temples, and traditional ayurvedic practices.
· Scenic trains (Kandy to Ella)
· Tuk-tuks
· Affordable private drivers
· Sigiriya Rock Fortress
· Ella & Nuwara Eliya
· Arugam Bay
· Wilpattu National Park
· Jaffna for northern culture
· Rice and curry
· Hoppers
· Kottu roti
· Fresh tropical fruits
Turkey blends European, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian influences. Respect customs at mosques and enjoy cultural traditions like tea drinking and local markets.
· Affordable domestic flights
· Comfortable long-distance buses
· Efficient city transport with Istanbulkart
· Cappadocia
· Pamukkale & Hierapolis
· Mount Nemrut
· Black Sea region
· Eastern Anatolia (Van & Kars)
· Traditional Turkish breakfast
· Regional kebabs
· Street foods like simit and roasted chestnuts
· Turkish tea and coffee culture
Recommended order:
1. Vietnam
2. Cambodia
3. Laos
4. Sri Lanka
5. Turkey
This route reduces backtracking and aligns with seasonal weather patterns.
· Accommodation: $5–30 per night
· Food: $1–5 (Asia), $3–10 (Turkey)
· Transport: $5–30 per journey
· Activities: Angkor Wat passes and Cappadocia balloon rides are major expenses
· Dress modestly at religious sites
· Ask before photographing people
· Support local businesses
· Avoid unethical animal tourism
· Carry reusable water bottles
· Consult a travel clinic for vaccinations
· Use travel insurance
· Avoid tap water in Southeast Asia & Sri Lanka
· Buy local SIM cards or use eSIMs
Useful Apps:
Maps.me, Google Translate, Grab, Gojek, BiTaksi
This journey through Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Sri Lanka, and Turkey offers unmatched diversity—from Southeast Asia’s temples and street food to Turkey’s cultural crossroads. Planning visas early, traveling responsibly, and staying flexible will transform this trip into a truly meaningful experience.
Travel slowly, stay curious, and allow space for unexpected moments—because the most memorable experiences often happen off the itinerary.