In September of 1944, a fleet of Japanese war ships were hit and sunk around Coron, the Philippines. Today, the ships remain underwater as some of the best wreck dive sites in the world.

We spent an unforgettable week surrounded by elephants, buffalo, dogs, cats, and more at Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Check out more about our volunteer experience here!

Often overlooked by backpackers on their route through Vietnam, Da Lat really is must-stop location in the southern half of your itinerary. If you’re brave enough, get ready to strap on your helmet and harness your ropes for an epic adventure.

The rural towns of Kampot and Kep lay along the coast just 3 hours outside of Phnom Penh. Relax on a river cruise, wander a seaside market, hike in the clouds, enjoy some community cuisine, or even tour a pepper farm!

Komodo National Park was a high item on the bucket list for us, and we were not disappointed! Hiking with the epic Komodo dragons, cruising the Komodo marine park, AND diving with manta rays? Three thumbs up.

At the very end of the South Island lays a beautiful wild expanse of sea and mountains. Cruising New Zealand’s Fiordlands rings in as an all-time favorite experience for us.