They say when you know, you know: from your favourite destinations, to your must-try foods, to, yes, your romantic partners! If you’ve found the one (or if you’re at least pretty sure), one of the best ways to strengthen your relationship is by taking a trip together. Travelling with a partner can improve your communication, cooperation, and bring you closer than ever before. Whether you’re looking for moonlit dinners and romantic walks on pristine beaches, adventurous exploration in ancient ruins and lush jungles, or a little bit of both, Southeast Asia is the ultimate romantic destination. We’ve put together a few of our favourite romantic trips to Southeast Asia for couples here; get ready for romance!
Tips for travelling with a partner
Manage your expectations
A trip to Southeast Asia is something people dream of for their entire lives, and the opportunity to experience it with someone you love makes it that much more special! But when you’ve saved your money and planned every last detail of a trip, even little slip-ups and scheduling errors can feel like the end of the world. Expect to have a good time on your trip, but don’t expect for everything to go perfectly.
The best travel stories are the unexpected ones, anyway!
Play to your strengths
If your partner has a knack for finding the best deals when you go shopping, maybe they should be in charge of finding your tour, accommodation, or excursions? Everyone has a unique set of skills that can translate to planning an incredible trip, so use it to your advantage!
Figure out your expenses ahead of time
If the relationship is new, it may be a little awkward to talk about money, but it’s better to talk about who will be paying for what before you set out. Maybe one of you will pay for meals, while the other shells out for excursions and accommodation. This is a great way to plan more of the trip ahead of time, and avoids any embarrassing financial mishaps once you arrive.
Explore locally
Many places in Southeast Asia are known for their gorgeous beaches, delicious food, and incredible culture: a romantic paradise! But make sure you explore areas off the beaten path and away from the crush of tourists – some of the most romantic spots are also the busiest spots, and there’s nothing romantic about being squished beside a thousand other tourists!
No pressure!
While travel is always a good idea, and there’s always something new to discover or experience on the road, no trip is perfect. If you build up your trip too much in your head, chances are it’ll never live up to the real thing – long flights, little fights, and all the things that can go wrong while you travel aren’t even close to the end of the world, but if you put pressure on yourself to have the perfect vacation, they’ll feel like it.
The most romantic places in Southeast Asia
Bali, Indonesia
If you haven’t already noticed, Bali is seriously incredible. Lush jungles, sparkling beaches, and a warm, welcoming culture, there’s something for everyone – and for every kind of couple – on this island in the Indian Ocean. Travellers can swim in warm, turquoise waters, go hiking through thick greenery and soaring hills, or just enjoy each other’s company at one of the many top-notch restaurants scattered throughout the island.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
If you and your partner consider yourselves a power couple, you’re probably in need of some peace and quiet! You’ll find it in the Cambodian town of Siem Reap, home to the incredible Angkor Wat. Explore the ancient temple complex that Cambodia is so proud of, and then relax in the bustling, changing downtown. You’ll find unique food, a buzzing nightlife, and romance around every corner.
Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
There’s no way you haven’t seen Ha Long Bay: the beautiful turquoise water and thousands of limestone islands topped with rainforests in Vietnam are an Instagram staple. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is the perfect place to island-hop, meet the locals, or even, if you’re feeling particularly inspired, pop the question.
The Gili Islands, Indonesia
It’s not all about Bali! The Gili Islands, referred to collectively as “the Gilis,” are three small islands in Indonesia that scream romance in a big way. Here, you’ll find world-class snorkelling and diving, lively bars, and serene, private beaches. Picture yourself taking a bike ride around one of these picture-perfect islands with your partner, and then relaxing on the beach with a drink at the end of the day: sounds pretty great, right?
Gardens By The Bay, Singapore
If your special someone loved this summer’s Crazy Rich Asians, why not include a filming spot in your romantic getaway? Gardens By The Bay is a jaw-dropping park in Singapore (the setting of the wedding at the end of the blockbuster film) designed to introduce visitors from around the world to plants they may not have seen before. Make sure you stick around for the end of the day: the massive man-made “trees” light up to music, which only makes it more romantic.
Group tours for couples
Tru Bali Experience
- Length: 10 Days
- Operated by: TruTravels
Highlights of this tour include Island-hopping in the Gili Islands, learning to surf, visiting the monkeys in Ubud, and exploring local markets and rice terraces. If you’re looking for an excuse to see absolutely all that Bali has to offer, this tour is it!
Cambodia Adventure
- Length: 12 days
- Operated by: Intrepid Travel
This tour of Cambodia combines the best of all worlds: you’ll explore ancient temples, learn about Cambodia’s complicated history, and become immersed in the country’s culture, but you’ll also have plenty of opportunities to relax, wander through bustling markets, or party the night away, if that’s your style.
Vietnam Intro
- Length: 12 days
- Operated by: Intro Travel
If you and your partner want to dive deep into what makes Vietnam so special, this 12-day tour is absolutely perfect. Stroll hand in hand through Hanoi’s markets, experience the magic of Ha Long Bay up close and personal, learn to cook authentic Vietnamese food for yourselves, and even enjoy a stay on your group’s own private island!
Lively Laos
- Length: 6 days
- Operated by: Hoi An Express
This in-depth cultural tour of Laos is perfect for couples who want their romantic escape to come with a healthy dose of adventure! Visit ancient temples, indulge in traditional Lao food, meet with local monks, and enjoy a romantic cruise down the Mekong River.
Colonial Singapore and Malaysia Beach Stay
- Length: 14 days
- Operated by: Trafalgar
If you and your partner want to experience the luxury and breakneck pace of Singapore, this is the tour to do it on. You’ll dive headfirst into the culture of Singapore, experiencing the history, food, and adventure for yourself, but you’ll also have a chance to view the UNESCO-listed Singapore Botanic Gardens – a beyond romantic setting for any adventurous couple!
Finding someone you want to travel the world with is a big deal, and it should be celebrated! While it may feel like a big step to go on a major trip with your partner, with some forethought and planning you’re bound to have the adventure of a lifetime, and come home closer than ever before.
Have you travelled with a significant other? Tell us about it!
