11 Places to visit in Asia this summer
July and August are typically associated with the monsoon season in many parts of Asia. However, Indonesia is the ideal destination for travel during July and August due to its favourable weather conditions. Many Indonesian islands will have clear skies and fewer rainy days, making it a nice destination for summer holidays. However, the heat and a little rain can actually be beneficial to your trip, particularly it is in the low season. This allows you to avoid the crowds and obtain better prices by visiting these destinations during the Asian summer months. Please find below a list of the most attractive destinations in Asia during this summer.
Maldives
The Maldives is a country that can be visited at any time of year. July and August are excellent months for a visit. Guests can enjoy the morning sunrise and ocean views from the water villas, with temperatures averaging 26 °C (80 °F). The water is crystal clear, there is abundant marine life and the people are friendly. With so many resorts to choose from, it can be challenging to narrow down your options. However, the water swing at Taj Exotica Resort and Spa is a good feature that will make your stay more memorable.
Gili Islands, Indonesia
The Gili Islands in Indonesia are an idyllic year-round destination. However, we recommend visiting in July for the best weather on the Gili Islands. The climate with warm and sunny days is ideal for beachside relaxation or snorkeling. The peak season runs between June and August that dry weather is almost guaranteed. There are 3 islands to choose from and we would recommend Gili Air, especially if you are visiting in July. Gili Air is much quieter than Gili Trawangan which is busy all year round. Gili Meno is also a quiet option with only 1 or 2 restaurants. It is a perfect place to escape for the day and you can transfer via boats between the islands. Spend your days sunbathing, snorkeling, cycling around the island, enjoying good food and maybe treat yourself to a massage or try some yoga.
Vientiane, Laos
Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is a laid-back city without the chaos of other Southeast Asian cities. In July and August, the streets of Vientiane are much less crowded than during the high season from October to April. July and August are therefore the best months to visit Vientiane. So if you want to visit a major Asian city without the crowd and the skyscrapers. Surely that’s reason enough to put Vientiane on your list if you’re planning a summer holiday in Asia. As well as Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng are also good places to visit in Laos during the summer months.
Kuching, Malaysia
Kuching on the Borneo side of Malaysia is an excellent base for a stay on the island. July and August are the best months to visit. You can visit the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre to see the orangutans and take a tour of Bako National Park to see the spectacular scenery and proboscis monkeys. For those seeking a more tranquil retreat, we recommend Mulu in the north of Sarawak. Mulu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the national park boasts some of the most magnificent caves in the world. The caves are remarkable and the wooden walkways facilitate make it easy access. The stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave are particularly impressive. The Mulu Marriott Hotel and Spa is an ideal location for relaxation, situated within the verdant jungle. Additionally, there is a diverse array of wildlife to observe during nighttime walks.
Penghu Islands, Taiwan
Penghu is Taiwan’s paradise island only insiders know. Despite the summer heatwaves currently affecting Taiwan, the Penghu islands offer a refreshing escape from the city, with its pristine waters and clear skies. Penghu is a group of 90 islands in the west of the Taiwan Strait. The islands are home to numerous beautiful sandy beaches with turquoise waters. One of the most appealing aspects of the islands is that they rarely experience high levels of crowed, particularly those situated in areas that are not inhabited. You can enjoy the unspoiled beaches and swim in the clean waters. Alternatively, you may consider island-hopping by boat.
Bali, Indonesia
A visit to Bali during July and August is a good time, as the weather is sunny and warm with less rain at this time of year. It also coincides with some significant festivals. The Buleleng Festival, Bali International Kite Festival, Ubud Village Jazz Festival and Sanur Village Festival are those you can jion. The festivals in Bali provide an unforgettable opportunity to experience the local Balinese culture and cuisine. Bali during the months of July and August will allow you to experience the island’s many attractions in a sunny and not too humid climate. From the exclusive Seminyak and Kerobokan to the wild beaches in the south and the beach life on Nusa Lembongan, Bali offers a diverse range of activities. The island’s most beautiful rice fields and ancient monuments are located in both east and west Bali. Ubud, the center of Bali’s culture is located between them.
Lake Bikal, Russia
Lake Baikal is an excellent option for those seeking to escape the city and experience the vast, unadulterated nature that Russia has to offer. Lake Baikal is the oldest, deepest and largest freshwater lake in the world. However, due to its location in Siberia, the climate is extremely cold out of the summer season. If you wish to engage in hiking or camping, it is advisable to do so during the months of July and August, as these are the ideal periods for such activities. It is possible to swim in the lake, but please be aware that the water is very cold. The Great Baikal Trail, a renowned hiking trail, is situated along the shoreline between Listvyanka and Bolshoie Koty.
Koh Samui, Thailand
While Thailand experiences high rainfall throughout July, a small area on the east coast offers sunny days during this period. This is the Koh Samui Archipelago, which comprises Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. July is in its dry season in this region. There is a wide range of activities available on these islands, including the popular Full Moon Party, which is held each month in Koh Phangan. This significant event is a popular event for visitors in Thailand. For those wishing to explore the island’s top beaches, you may consider to rent a scooter. For those who enjoy exploring the marine life, Koh Tao offers a variety of opportunities for snorkeling and diving.
Sri Lanka
While other countries in Asia have a clear division of dry season and rainy season, there are different climate zones within Sri Lanka. If you are considering an island escape in Asia in July and August, we would recommend focusing your itinerary on the north and east of this country. This is the optimal time to visit these regions of Sri Lanka. You can take full advantage of the off-peak season to explore the southern coast. There were no tourist crowds and the streets of Galle were very quiet. Combine beach, history, culture and nature in one affordable tour of the East and North.
Komodo, Indonesia
Komodo is one of those destinations in Indonesia that are on the list of any traveller who it boasts. While both July and August are suitable months for visiting the Komodo Islands, we would recommend that August offer slightly more favorable conditions in terms of weather. There is a wide range of activities available in Komodo. From visiting the Komodo National Park and observing the impressive Komodo dragons with a park guide, to exploring other islands in the area, including the beautiful Pulau Padar, Rinca Island, and Pink Beach. The Komodo Islands are world-famous for their rich marine life, including countless manta rays, sea turtles, dolphins, small sharks, world-class snorkeling and diving sites with millions of fish, and stunning hiking paths.
Sapa, Vietnam
The summer months are the perfect time to visit Sapa in Northern Vietnam. Sapa’s elevation high up in the Hoàng Liên Son Mountain Range ensures a cool climate during summer months, which is rare in Southeast Asia. Due to its unique climate and location, this region only gets one rice crop per year, with the terraces displaying a vibrant green and full of life in July and August. The extensive rice terraces that cover the tall hills and mountains are a photographer’s dream. Hikers will also enjoy walking through the verdant paddies, but should be prepared for the possibility of rain. While temperatures are pleasant, precipitation is more common than in winter. One of the most rewarding ways to experience Sapa, Vietnam is to hike to and stay overnight in a local village in a homestay with a Hmong family, gaining insight into local life. A summer visit is highly recommended.
For more travel inspiration and more details about your summer trip, talk to our travel consultants right ahead!
