Active Adventures

Move.Dream.Explore

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I am currently travelling South East Asia! I am interested in fitness, sport and all things active!
  • Active Adventures in Southeast Asia

    Active Adventures in Southeast Asia

    Traveling through Southeast Asia is an experience like no other — bustling night markets, sunrise treks, jungle adventures, and golden temples around every corner. But if you’re someone who values your fitness and wellness, you’ve probably wondered: Can I stay active and healthy while on the road?

    The short answer: yes — 100%. In fact, Southeast Asia might be one of the best places to combine travel and fitness if you’re open to a flexible, creative routine.

    🥥 Why Southeast Asia is Perfect for Active Travellers

    1. Warm Weather = Movement Motivation
      Whether you’re hiking in Chiang Mai or doing yoga in Ubud, the climate makes it easy to wake up early, move your body, and sweat naturally.
    2. Affordable Wellness Options
      From $5 Muay Thai classes in Thailand to donation-based yoga sessions in Bali, you’ll find endless low-cost ways to stay active and grounded.
    3. Healthy, Fresh Food
      Think tropical fruits, rice bowls, grilled fish, and coconut everything. Most meals are fresh, light, and packed with nutrients — if you avoid the fried snacks every now and then.

    🏋️‍♀️ Fitness on the Go: Tips & Routines

    🧘‍♀️ 1. Prioritize Bodyweight & Minimal-Equipment Workouts

    No gym? No problem. Try:

    • 20-minute HIIT circuits in your Airbnb
    • Beach sprints or jogs at sunrise
    • Resistance band routines (pack one!)

    🧘 2. Try Local Fitness Culture

    • Muay Thai in Thailand 🥊
    • Yoga and breathwork in Bali 🌿
    • Group hikes or waterfall treks in Vietnam and Laos 🥾
    • Outdoor gyms in cities like Ho Chi Minh or Bangkok 🏋️

    🧴 3. Hydration & Rest Matter

    You’ll be sweating more than usual — always have a bottle of water with electrolytes or coconut water nearby. And remember: rest days are key when you’re on the move!

    🌍 Balancing Travel & Routine

    You don’t have to work out every day or track every calorie. It’s all about listening to your body, moving daily (even if it’s just walking 10K steps exploring a new town), and nourishing yourself when you can.

    Your version of “fit” might look a little different when you’re abroad — and that’s okay. Fitness isn’t just about six-packs or macros; it’s about feeling good, staying energized, and creating a lifestyle that supports your freedom and joy.

    ✨ Final Thoughts

    Traveling through Southeast Asia is the perfect time to reset your body and mind. With a little intention, you can stay active, eat well, and build a routine that aligns with your best self — all while exploring some of the most beautiful places on Earth.

    Pack your trainers, download a few workout apps, and let the journey begin. Your healthiest, happiest self is already in motion.

  • 💪 Fit for Free: Discovering Awesome Gyms Across Southeast Asia 🧳🌴

    💪 Fit for Free: Discovering Awesome Gyms Across Southeast Asia 🧳🌴

    By: Active Adventurer | Travel. Sweat. Repeat.

    Let’s be honest—traveling is amazing, but staying fit while hopping between temples, tuk-tuks, and tropical beaches? That can be tricky. Luckily, Southeast Asia is full of hidden gems for fitness lovers: from beachside pull-up bars to budget-friendly gyms that feel like luxury for less than the price of your smoothie. 😅

    Whether you’re a broke backpacker, digital nomad, or swole soul on a sabbatical, here’s your ultimate guide to FREE and AFFORDABLE gyms across Southeast Asia!

    🇹🇭 Thailand: Muay Thai, Beach Workouts & Urban Iron

    🌴 FREE: Muscle Beach, Phuket

    Yes, it’s real. Right on Patong Beach, this public outdoor gym has pull-up bars, dip stations, and even a few makeshift weights. The view? Ocean. The price? Zero baht.

    📝 Tip: Go early to avoid the heat (and Insta influencers).

    💪 Cheap & Great: The Brick Gym, Chiang Mai

    This locally loved gym costs just 100–150 THB/day (~$3–4 USD) and is loaded with free weights, machines, and friendly regulars who are happy to spot you—even if you’re sweaty and confused.

    🇻🇳 Vietnam: Rooftop Workouts & Park Gains

    🌳 FREE: Tao Dan Park, Ho Chi Minh City

    A local favorite for tai chi, aerobics, and calisthenics. You’ll find bars, benches, and enough green space to throw in your own HIIT circuit.

    📝 Tip: Early mornings are bustling with energy. Great way to mix with locals.

    🏋️ Top Pick: Iron Bar Gym, Da Nang

    Modern, spotless, and near the beach. A day pass runs about 70,000 VND (~$3 USD). Think full dumbbell racks, cardio machines, and occasional protein shakes in a coconut. 🥥💥

    🇮🇩 Indonesia: Bali Bod & Jungle Gyms

    🧗 FREE: Campuhan Ridge Walk, Ubud

    Okay, it’s not a gym—but it’s a killer cardio path through rice terraces and jungle. Jog it at sunrise, and you’ll feel like a sweaty Zen monk.

    🏋️‍♂️ Epic Value: The Bar Gym, Canggu

    Rustic, outdoors, and made for deadlifts. Entry starts at 50,000 IDR (~$3 USD). Surf in the morning, lift in the afternoon, and drink kombucha by night.

    📝 Bonus: Rusters Fitness and Body Factory Bali offer day passes if you’re splurging. These are luxury wellness centers with saunas, ice baths, and buff humans everywhere.

    🇵🇭 Philippines: Islands, Iron, and Free Workouts

    🏝️ FREE: Rizal Park, Manila

    Open-air fitness stations and walking paths. Bring your resistance bands, and you’re golden.

    🔥 Hidden Gem: Fortify Gym, Cebu

    Air-conditioned and stacked with everything from squat racks to CrossFit gear. A day pass? Just 150 PHP (~$2.70 USD). That’s less than your halo-halo.

    🇲🇾 Malaysia: Clean, Green, and Gym-Scene

    🌇 FREE: KLCC Park, Kuala Lumpur

    Surrounded by skyscrapers and the iconic Petronas Towers, this park offers running tracks and free bodyweight stations. Plus, the views make you forget you’re sweating buckets.

    🏋️‍♀️ Best Bang: The Gym KCH, Kuching

    Clean, quiet, and under the radar. Day passes around 10–15 MYR (~$2–3 USD). Great for travelers needing a no-fuss pump before heading to Borneo’s jungles.

    💡 Pro Tips for Fit Travel:

    • Look for day passes: Many local gyms don’t advertise online but welcome walk-ins.
    • Pack light gear: A jump rope, resistance band, and yoga mat can turn any beach or hostel into a gym.
    • Stay hydrated: Especially in that Southeast Asian humidity. 💦
    • Mix it up: Try Muay Thai in Thailand, yoga in Bali, or Zumba in Vietnam!

    🧳 Final Thoughts

    Southeast Asia isn’t just a paradise for foodies and beach bums—it’s a fitness playground if you know where to look. Whether you’re doing push-ups in a park or power cleans in paradise, staying fit on the road doesn’t have to break the bank.

    So grab your water bottle, slap on some SPF, and go get that travel pump. 🌍💥

    Got a favorite gym or workout spot in SEA? Drop it in the comments! Let’s get strong and sweaty together!

  • 🌏 Southeast Asia on a Budget: Best Hostels, Cheap Sleeps & Wild Parties

    🌏 Southeast Asia on a Budget: Best Hostels, Cheap Sleeps & Wild Parties

    Southeast Asia is a backpacker’s paradise—perfect for those looking to explore beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, rich culture, and, of course, unforgettable parties. Whether you’re on a tight budget, looking for a social scene, or seeking some relaxation time, I’ve got you covered. Check out the best hostels, budget hotels, and party hotspots across Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam!

    🇹🇭 Thailand: Adventure, Culture & Epic Parties

    💰 Budget Option: Lub d Hostel (Bangkok)

    • Price: $10–$18/night
    • Why stay? Located in the bustling Sukhumvit area, Lub d is ideal for travelers who want to experience Bangkok on a budget. With cozy dorms, a social atmosphere, and great facilities, it’s perfect for those who want a comfy place to sleep after a long day of exploring.
    • Vibe: Chill, social, affordable.

    🍻 Party Option: Slumber Party Hostel (Krabi & Koh Phangan)

    • Price: $8–$15/night
    • Why stay? Slumber Party Hostel is a go-to for backpackers looking to party. Expect free shots, wild bar crawls, and an endless stream of fun. Whether you’re in Krabi or Koh Phangan, the good times never stop.
    • Vibe: High-energy, party-centric, social.

    🏝 Relax Option: The Memory at On On Hotel (Phuket Old Town)

    • Price: $20–$40/night
    • Why stay? If you want to escape the crowds and noise of the party zones, The Memory at On On Hotel in Phuket Old Town offers a quiet, charming place to rest your head. It’s ideal for those looking to unwind in a culturally rich part of Phuket.
    • Vibe: Peaceful, charming, cultural.

    🇰🇭 Cambodia: Temples, History & Wild Nights

    💰 Budget Option: The Siem Reap Hostel (Siem Reap)

    • Price: $7–$12/night
    • Why stay? The Siem Reap Hostel is perfect for budget travelers. It’s a short tuk-tuk ride to the Angkor Wat temples, and the hostel offers comfortable dorms, a pool, and organized activities like pub crawls.
    • Vibe: Affordable, social, laid-back.

    🍻 Party Option: Mad Monkey Hostel (Siem Reap)

    • Price: $6–$10/night
    • Why stay? Famous for its daily happy hours, pool parties, and proximity to Pub Street, Mad Monkey is a party hub. It’s where you’ll meet fellow backpackers, share stories, and hit the bars together.
    • Vibe: Lively, wild, and perfect for meeting fellow travelers.

    🏝 Relax Option: Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor (Siem Reap)

    • Price: $100–$150/night
    • Why stay? If you’re looking for luxury after visiting the Angkor temples, this historic hotel provides ultimate comfort, beautiful colonial-style architecture, and a peaceful garden to relax in.
    • Vibe: Elegant, peaceful, historical charm.

    🇱🇸 Laos: Tranquil Adventures & Scenic Escapes

    💰 Budget Option: Vang Vieng Backpackers (Vang Vieng)

    • Price: $7–$12/night
    • Why stay? Vang Vieng is known for its stunning nature and adventurous activities. Vang Vieng Backpackers offers basic amenities, a relaxed social environment, and is a great place to meet other adventurers. You’ll be near riverside activities and hiking.
    • Vibe: Relaxed, adventure-filled, budget-friendly.

    🍻 Party Option: The Elephant Crossing Hotel (Vang Vieng)

    • Price: $10–$20/night
    • Why stay? While Vang Vieng is quieter than other party hubs in Southeast Asia, The Elephant Crossing offers easy access to tubing parties and bar crawls along the Nam Song River. The perfect mix of chill during the day and fun at night.
    • Vibe: Laid-back with a fun, social vibe.

    🏝 Relax Option: Riverside Boutique Resort (Vang Vieng)

    • Price: $50–$80/night
    • Why stay? For a serene escape in Laos, Riverside Boutique Resort provides a perfect setting. Situated by the Nam Song River, it’s ideal for those looking for peace, great views, and some luxury without breaking the bank.
    • Vibe: Tranquil, luxurious, scenic.

    🇻🇳 Vietnam: History, Adventure & Thriving Nightlife

    💰 Budget Option: Vietnam Backpacker Hostels (Hanoi)

    • Price: $7–$12/night
    • Why stay? Vietnam Backpacker Hostels offers a great mix of affordability and fun. The Hanoi location is ideal for meeting travelers before heading out on a Halong Bay tour, and they offer daily activities to help you experience the local culture.
    • Vibe: Social, affordable, adventurous.

    🍻 Party Option: The Hideout Hostel (Ho Chi Minh City)

    • Price: $9–$14/night
    • Why stay? Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, The Hideout Hostel is perfect for party lovers. With nightly events, bar crawls, and a fun atmosphere, it’s easy to meet people and explore the nightlife scene.
    • Vibe: Party-centric, energetic, social.

    🏝 Relax Option: Anantara Mui Ne Resort (Mui Ne)

    • Price: $60–$120/night
    • Why stay? For a peaceful beach retreat, Anantara Mui Ne Resort offers beautiful beachfront views, perfect for unwinding. After a few days of city hustle, this is the perfect spot to recharge by the sea.
    • Vibe: Relaxing, luxurious, beachside.

    🌟 Final Thoughts

    Southeast Asia offers an amazing variety of places to stay, whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly bed, a party haven, or a peaceful retreat. Whether it’s Thailand’s wild beach parties, Cambodia’s temple adventures, Laos’ tranquil riversides, or Vietnam’s bustling cities, there’s something for everyone.

    Pack your bags, grab your passport, and let the Southeast Asian adventure begin!

  • How to Travel Southeast Asia on a Budget 💸🌏

    How to Travel Southeast Asia on a Budget 💸🌏

    Southeast Asia is one of the best places in the world for budget travelers. With cheap food, affordable transport, and endless adventure, it’s easy to explore without breaking the bank. Here’s how you can do it too! 🏝️✨

    ✈️ Cheap Flights – Use Skyscanner

    Flights can be the biggest expense, but don’t worry – Skyscanner is your best friend! 🛫 Use it to compare flight prices, set price alerts, and find the cheapest dates to travel. Being flexible with your dates can save you a ton of money. If you’re hopping between countries, check out budget airlines like AirAsia and VietJet.

    🚆 Getting Around – Use 12Go Asia (But Book at Local Travel Shops!)

    12Go Asia is a fantastic tool for checking schedules for buses, trains, and ferries. However, booking directly at a travel agency on the street is usually cheaper! 🏍️ In many places, you can haggle the price down, and agencies often have unpublished discounts.

    🍜 Eat at Food Markets, Not Restaurants

    Want delicious food for cheap? Skip the touristy restaurants and head to the local food markets. The food is fresher, tastier, and way more affordable. 🤤🍛 Even though 7-Eleven is legendary in Southeast Asia (those toasties! 🥪), local supermarkets are even cheaper for snacks and essentials.

    🤝 Always Haggle (Even If It Feels Awkward!)

    Bargaining is part of the culture in Southeast Asia! Vendors expect you to haggle, and if you don’t, you’ll likely be overcharged. A girl I met in Laos taught me a great trick – pretend to walk away, and the seller will often lower the price. She did this with a tuk-tuk driver and got a much better deal! 🚖

    📱 Use Grab or Loca (For Laos)

    Taxis can be a rip-off, so use Grab for cheap rides in most countries. In Laos, where Grab doesn’t operate, use Loca instead. It works the same way, and you’ll avoid the hassle of negotiating prices. 🚗💨

    🚫 Avoid Overhyped TikTok Tourist Traps

    Some viral TikTok spots look amazing but are overcrowded and overpriced. Instead, explore lesser-known gems where you can actually enjoy the experience without waiting in massive lines or overpaying for entry. 🏞️

    🎟️ Book Tours on the Street (Not Online!)

    Tour prices online are often way more expensive than what you can get in person. Go to the street vendors, show them the online price, and negotiate – they’ll almost always match or beat it! 🏝️

    💡 Extra Budget Tips:

    ✅ Stay in hostels or guesthouses instead of hotels – they’re cheap and social! 🏨👯‍♂️
    ✅ Use overnight buses to save money on accommodation while traveling. 🚌💤
    ✅ Carry a refillable water bottle – buying bottled water adds up! 💧🌱
    ✅ Take advantage of free activities like hiking, exploring temples, and chilling on the beach. 🏔️🏝️

    Southeast Asia is an amazing place to travel, and with these tips, you can do it on a budget without missing out on anything. Have you tried any of these budget hacks? Let me know in the comments! 👇😃

  • Ultimate Southeast Asia Itinerary🌊 🏔

    Ultimate Southeast Asia Itinerary🌊 🏔

    🏁 START: Bangkok, Thailand (🇹🇭) – 3-4 Days

    🛕 Dog in Town ekkami
    🛍️ Chatuchak Weekend Market/ Central World
    🚤 Boat ride on the Chao Phraya River
    🏛️ Day trip to Ayutthaya (ancient ruins)

    🚆 Night train or flight to Chiang Mai

    🏯 Chiang Mai & Pai, Thailand – 5-6 Days

    🐘 Ethical elephant sanctuary visit
    🌄 Tipsy Tubing in Pai
    🥘 Thai cooking class
    💆‍♀️ North gate jazz club
    🌊 Sticky Waterfall & Grand Canyon Waterpark

    ✈️ Fly from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang, Laos

    🛶 Luang Prabang & Nong Khiaw, Laos (🇱🇦) – 5-6 Days

    💦 Swim in Kuang Si Falls
    🌅 Sunset from Mount Phousi
    🍜 Night market street food

    🚐 Travel to Nong Khiaw (3-4 hours by bus)

    🏔️ Nong Khiaw (2 Days)
    🥾 Hike to Phadeng Peak for sunrise views
    🛶 Boat trip on the Nam Ou River
    🌿 Relax in this hidden gem village

    🚤 Take the slow boat (2 days) or bus to Vang Vieng

    🏔️ Vang Vieng & Vientiane, Laos – 3-5 Days

    🌊 Tubing down the Nam Song River
    🟢 Lagoon visits (zip lines and slides)
    🛕 Paramotoring or Hot Air ballooning

    ✈️ Fly from Vientiane to Hanoi, Vietnam

    📍 Hanoi (2-3 Days)

    ☕ Try Vietnamese egg coffee & visit the Note Cafe
    🏮 Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter
    🚢 2-day Ha Long Bay cruise (kayaking & caves)
    🎢 Slide down the Rainbow Slide at Ba Vi

    🚆 Overnight train or bus to Sapa

    📍 Sapa (3 Days)

    🏔️ Trek through rice terraces in Muong Hoa Valley
    🏡 Stay in a local homestay with ethnic minority groups
    🌿 Visit Cat Cat Village (traditional H’Mong village)
    💦 Hike to Love Waterfall (scenic waterfall in Hoang Lien National Park)
    🚡 Take the cable car to Fansipan (Vietnam’s highest peak)

    🚆 Train or bus back to Hanoi

    🚆 Overnight train to Da Nang

    🏝️ Da Nang, Hoi An & Hue, Vietnam – 5-6 Days

    🏍️ Make personalised rings or tailored clothing
    🎭 Walk through Hoi An’s lantern-lit Old Town
    🎢Go surfing on the huge waves

    ✈️ Fly from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City

    🏛️ Phnom Penh & Siem Reap, Cambodia (🇰🇭) – 4-5 Days

    ⚰️ Visit the Killing Fields & Genocide Museum
    🌅 Wakeboarding at Wake park or Garden City Water Park
    🌿 Explore jungle-covered Ta Prohm (Tomb Raider temple)

    🚍 Bus to Koh Rong for island time OR fly to Bangkok

    🏝️ Koh Rong, Cambodia – 4-6 Days

    🌴 Relax on Koh Rong’s white sand beaches
    🌌 See bioluminescent plankton at night
    🐠 Nest jungle party

    📍 Phuket (2-3 Days)

    🏖️ Relax on Kata & Nai Harn Beach
    ⛵ Island-hopping to Coral & Racha Island
    🎉 Bangla Road nightlife

    🚤 Ferry to Koh Phi Phi

    📍 Koh Phi Phi (2-3 Days)

    🏝️ Hike to the Phi Phi Viewpoint
    🐠 Snorkel at Maya Bay (The Beach movie)
    🌅 Reggae fight bar

    🚤 Ferry to Railay Beach

    📍 Railay Beach (2-3 Days)

    🧗‍♂️ Rock climbing on limestone cliffs
    🌊 Phra Nang Cave Beach
    🐠 Snorkeling & kayaking

    🚤 Ferry to Koh Tao

    📍 Koh Tao (2-3 Days)

    🤿 Scuba dive in crystal-clear waters
    🏝️ Chill at Sai Nuan & Shark Bay
    🌅 Sunset at John Suwan Viewpoint

    🚤 Ferry to Koh Phangan

    📍 Koh Phangan (2-3 Days)

    🎉 Full Moon Party (if timed right)
    🏖️ Secret beaches like Bottle Beach
    🧘‍♀️ Yoga & wellness retreats

    These are the best destinations for your South East Asia Trip! If you want any further suggestions or pictures DM me at Brookehenley_

  • How to Plan Your First Trip to Southeast Asia: A Complete Checklist ✅🏝️🐚

    How to Plan Your First Trip to Southeast Asia: A Complete Checklist ✅🏝️🐚

    Southeast Asia is a dream destination for solo travelers and first-timers! Whether you’re craving pristine beaches, breathtaking mountains, or a deep dive into rich culture and food, this region has it all. Whether you’re a laid-back explorer or an adrenaline junkie, you’ll find the perfect adventure here—and the budget-friendly prices are just the cherry on top! 😉

    Many different sources claim you need all the gadgets and bits and bobs ‘just in case’ but I have compiled a budget friendly list of essentials! 

    Packing list: 

    • A Backpack… Any will do but I took this one: 
    • A small backpack for daily items 
    • Packing cubes- an essential, it keeps your bag organised, to not lose anything and easier to find things when you’re in a hostel! 
    • Locks- perfect if you leave your bags somewhere or any valuable items
    • Microfibre towel- they are compact and dry quickly! Most hostels usually give you a towel for free. 
    • Eye Mask- perfect for sleeper buses or annoying hostel mates
    • International adapter- Each country differs so its better to get an international one.  
    • Power bank – Essential for overnight buses and long travel days.
    • Clothes- Pack only the basics—you can always buy more once you’re there!
    • Shoes: Flip-flops for beaches, sandals for dressing up, and trainers for hikes.
    • Suncream: Expensive in Southeast Asia (and often has whitening ingredients). Bring your own!
    • Tampons: Hard to find—stock up before you go.
    • Makeup-I did bring more than recommended but that’s a personal preference 🙂 
    • Toilet roll or wipes- the toilets at  bus stops or train stations usually don’t have any roll or you have to pay so I would definitely advise to bring.
    • Purse- there’s lots of cash and notes so you will need a good purse to hold it all. 
    • Optional Packing list: 
    • Carabinas– I personally did not need them but they are good to hang stuff off of bags and hostel beds
    • Dry bag- If you have a larger budget, it can be good for any kayaking or boat trips you go on. 
    • Mosquito repellent- you can get them in south east asia and it usually is cheaper 
    • First aid kit with any medication or plasters
    • Headphones / earplugs for travel days or if you are a light sleeper!

    There you have it! Your ultimate packing guide for South East Asia!  

    Links for all items are down below:) 

    If you have any questions DM me on insta! Brookehenley_