I’ve lived and worked in Chiang Mai, Thailand, for over two years, and during that time, I’ve traveled extensively and found my favorite stays in Southeast Asia. Some budget-friendly, some luxurious, and some completely unique (nestled in the mountains or 5 star food). Every place on this list is somewhere I personally stayed and loved, so you won’t find anything here that didn’t impress me. I know it can be so overwhelming to pick accommodation for a big trip like this, so I hope my picks make it a little easier! Let’s dive in!
check out my hidden gem guide to Bangkok & my solo trip to Chiang Rai
My favorite stays in Southeast Asia
Bangkok, Thailand
Luxe: Hyatt Place & Hyatt Regency
- Stayed using credit card points with my chase sapphire preferred —totally worth it.
- Free breakfast and rooftop pools/bars make it an amazing value.
- Perfect for a comfortable stay in the heart of Bangkok.
Budget: HOP Inn
- A super affordable, clean, and consistent hotel chain, around $30 / night.
- Great option if you need a reliable and no-fuss stay.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Luxe: THEE Vijit Lanna
- Around $100 a night for a beautifully designed Lanna hotel.
- Stunning rooms, amazing breakfast, and a peaceful retreat still in the heart of the old city.
Doi Inthanon National Park, Thailand
Budget: Chadaporn Rentroom (Mae Chaem)
- Peaceful atmosphere with rice field and mountain views for ~30 / night.
- Staying overnight lets you explore Doi Inthanon at a relaxed pace without rushing.
- 100% recommend this hidden gem!
Chiang Dao, Thailand
Luxe: Villa De View
- Breathtaking rice field views in a quiet, serene location. Around $100 / night.
Budget: Brown House
- A simple and affordable stay with cozy vibes for $15 / night.
Railay Beach, Thailand
Mid-range: Railay Princess Resort & Spa
- Clean rooms with AC, a rooftop pool, and a great deal overall for around $40 / night.
Koh Lanta, Thailand
Budget: Serene Lanta Resort
- Budget-friendly, clean rooms, strong AC, and just a short walk to the beach for $30 / night. Really nice local owners that you can rent a motorbike from as well.
Koh Samui, Thailand
Luxe: SALA Samui Choengmon Beach Resort
- Luxe option with stunning pools, beautiful rooms, and top-tier service for $200 / night. The nicest hotel staff I’ve ever seen.
Luang Prabang, Laos
Mid-range: Mali House
- Owned by an American expat, Andy, who made me feel right at home in this traditional Lanna-style house for $40 / night.
- Located in the heart of the local market, so you get the full Lao experience.
- I loved it so much I stayed again on my second visit!
Nong Khiaw, Laos
Mid-range: Nong Khiau Riverside
- Arguably the best place to stay in this peaceful village for around $40 / night.
- Large, comfy rooms with a private balcony.
- Surrounded by lush flowers and greenery, it felt like a garden oasis!
Hoi An, Vietnam
Mid-range: Volar Hoi An Homestay
- Affordable, cozy, and run by the sweetest owners for around $35 / night.
- Lush private pool and free bicycles—perfect for exploring Hoi An!
- Close to the central market, making it a great base.
Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Budget: Blue Garden Homestay
- A super budget-friendly stay with warm, welcoming local hosts for $15 / night.
Sapa, Vietnam
Mid-range: Plum Eco House
- The best homestay I’ve ever experienced.
- Nestled in Ta Van village with panoramic mountain views.
- The hosts made incredible farm-to-table meals—spicy eggplant, stuffed tofu, and fresh yogurt with granola for breakfast.
- Perfect way to unwind after trekking.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Luxe: Hyatt Regency West Hanoi
- Used credit card points for a fantastic stay. Mostly businessmen stay here, but the amenities are amazing and you can explore a new side of Hanoi.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Luxe: Hyatt Regency
- A true 5-star hotel experience—absolutely amazing.
- I booked with credit card points but without it’s around $150 / night.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Mid-range: Bayon Modern Residence
- A fantastic mid-range hotel with a great breakfast and beautiful pool for $40 / night.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Luxe: Alila Bangsar
- Stayed here twice because I loved it so much.
- A sleek, modern 5-star hotel that made for the perfect staycation (thanks, credit card points!).
- Around $90 / night without transferring points.
Final thoughts: My favorite stays in Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia is overflowing with incredible places to stay, whether you’re on a backpacker budget or splurging on a luxe getaway. From hidden homestays with the kindest hosts to five-star resorts that feel like literal paradise, these are the stays that stood out to me the most. I hope it’s helpful in the crazy frenzy of planning a trip to Southeast Asia!
If you’re planning a trip and need recommendations, hit me up—I could talk about these places forever! 🌏✨
If you liked my favorite stays in Southeast Asia, you’ll like my other posts:
