Backpacking for Pros

You've traveled a bit and know that the challenges of traveling are child's play for you? If you're already experienced backpackers, I have some really cool and challenging backpacking destinations for the pros among you.

First of all, the question arises: when can you consider yourself a backpacking pro? Of course, it all depends on the experiences you've gathered on your previous trips and what survival tricks you've learned. What one could expect from a backpacking pro would be a hassle-free packing of the backpack, meaning quickly and as minimalist as possible - you have to carry your luggage on your back after all. Important information regarding visas must be readily available or quickly accessible, and you should be keen and capable of using various means of transportation, like trains, buses, or Uber, along with being hygienically flexible regarding the countries you visit.

Communication with locals should be possible, and you should also enjoy embarking on your own adventures, bringing a great interest in the culture and locals, while being open and flexible to new connections and alternative routes.

Southeast Asia is clearly one of the most popular backpacking destinations among travelers. Therefore, here's my first recommendation: Malaysia has so much to offer, especially for you backpackers. To get around in Malaysia, it's best to rely on buses. The buses there are modern, comfortable, and air-conditioned. Tickets for rides can be bought at any station for a small price. Generally, Malaysia is a very affordable country, and you can get by on about $20-40 per day. You can eat well for around $5, and a night usually costs around $10 to $20. Since Malaysia was formerly a British colony, you shouldn't have any problems if you want to communicate in English.

Malaysia's capital Kuala Lumpur is particularly exciting, colorful, and lively, especially in the Golden Triangle district. Here, you'll find the famous Petronas Towers, countless shops, nice restaurants, interesting museums, and an exciting nightlife. Chinatown is bustling with activity, a massive flea and street market where you can find many bargains. If you ever need a break from the hustle and bustle, you can relax in the Lake Gardens Park in Kuala Lumpur, walking around the lakes. Cities like Georgetown and Melaka await a visit as well. Melaka used to be a meeting point for pirates, but today you don't have to worry; you'll only meet cheerful Malaysians. But this wonderful country has so much more to offer - more Malaysia tips from me can be found here:

Although Singapore is geographically part of Malaysia, it is an independent city-state. If you are already traveling in Malaysia, you should definitely add a trip to Singapore. Singapore is considerably more developed than many other Southeast Asian countries. Not only in Asian standards but also for Germans, the country is relatively expensive.

Incredible buildings like the world-famous Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and the numerous Buddhist temples are absolute highlights. On another note, Singapore offers an insane nightlife. Clarke Quay in the city is an absolute hotspot. Countless young people and party enthusiasts gather on the nearby bridge to drink before heading to the adjacent clubs and bars. Sentosa Island is a small island that can be reached from Singapore within minutes by train.

Here, there's plenty to experience, adventure parks, legendary parties, and great beach bars that get particularly lively on weekends. If you're looking for something relaxing and peaceful, while soaking up the sun and listening to the sound of the sea, I recommend East Coast Park. Only locals typically wander here; it's quiet, idyllic, and the view resembles the empty exotic beaches seen on Southeast Asian postcards. Simply delightful.

As mentioned, Singapore is not a super cheap travel destination, so you should budget a bit more. There are indeed well-priced hostels, but they are usually not right in the center; the food is mostly very affordable. You should try one of the food courts, which are on every corner. If you need more tips on how to explore Singapore cheaply, I can recommend my article.

Vietnam is indeed a challenge, whether positive or negative - opinions can differ. Just try it out for yourself: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and travel north towards Hanoi. Many backpackers rent a motorcycle on-site and travel through the country themselves. There is also the option to use travel and sleeper buses to hit various stops.

Vietnam is a very affordable travel destination - you can get by well on $15 to $30 per day. Even hotels are super affordable, so you don't necessarily have to stay in a hostel. You can also score incredible deals on meals: A great local dish can be had for just $2. Of course, there are western restaurants too, but the prices there can be comparatively higher. With a bit of English, you'll manage fine locally. However, it becomes more challenging if you stay outside of the tourist areas. But what do we have hands, feet, and a friendly smile for, right?

Most hotspots can easily be navigated by bus or rented motorcycle. Temples, coastlines, rice fields - it's great here to rely on no one but yourself and simply take control. In Hoi An, I recommend renting a scooter and then heading north towards Da Nang and further along the coast through the mountains. The landscapes are breathtaking, the views from the steep cliffs are insane. The infrastructure in Vietnam is decent, at least passable. However, rules aren't strictly observed here - I met many people who had accidents on their motorcycles, so you should have motorcycle experience.

A highlight that you can't reach yourself is the famous Halong Bay. There, you can sail around with a tour operator for several days and nights on a ship in the bay. The view is truly enchanting: all around, stone cliffs rise from the water, covered in green shimmering plants and trees, between the turquoise waters and charming little boats - simply magical. Other recommendable destinations include the city of Sapa in northern Vietnam and Tam Coc, which you've surely seen in beautiful pictures featuring a river surrounded by spectacular mountains and colorful flowers and bright green grass on the water. While the crowds can be large, it's still a truly impressive experience. Vietnam is definitely an adventure that every backpacker must try at least once in their life. For more inspiration on Vietnam, check out my Vietnam Guide.

Cambodia lies between Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam in Southeast Asia, right by the Gulf of Thailand. Compared to neighboring countries, the cost of living here is very cheap. Food is also very affordable, especially alcoholic drinks: a half-liter of beer costs just 50 cents. Moreover, you can explore most Southeast Asian countries excellently on a scooter, which provides a genuine adventure kick.

Cambodia boasts stunning sandy beaches along the Gulf of Thailand. Victory Beach attracts many backpackers looking to experience a legendary beach party. The fairy-tale island of Koh Rong, on the other hand, boasts an incredible 43 kilometers of beach paradise. Snow-white sand, turquoise waters, and green palm trees make a trip here an absolute dream. But above all, I want to emphasize the incredibly beautiful landscapes: The Cambodia Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature reserve where the fauna and flora are lovingly protected and nurtured. Swamps, grasslands, and spectacular plant species await you here.

A popular travel destination is also Siem Reap, thanks to attractions like the Floating Village and the temple complex Angkor Wat. This complex is the largest and most famous in the region and also attracts many backpackers. More tips from me can be found here:

With more than 17,000 islands, Indonesia offers an incredible variety of nature, culture, and lifestyles, along with diverse living conditions. Besides Bali, which is great for beginners backpackers, there are several islands in Indonesia where you definitely need solid backpacking skills. One of them is Java. Java is still not as touristy as Bali, although it borders the island and sits in an increasingly western region.

The nature on Java is truly breathtaking: huge volcanoes, roaring waterfalls, beautiful beaches, and adorable sea turtles - Java is definitely a land of diversity. I recommend you check out Mount Bromo, Mount Semeru, the Madakaripura Waterfall, and Ijen Crater - here you'll find the absolute natural hotspots of the island. The sight of the turquoise water cascading down the brightly green-covered cliffs at Madakaripura Waterfall will remain etched in my memory forever. The nature here is simply stunning.

If you have the chance and bring more time, I definitely advise you to drive around the island and discover everything Java has to offer. However, keep in mind that the roads are mostly very poorly constructed and over long stretches, you may find no shops or gas stations at all. Entrance fees for tourists are usually significantly higher, and often the locals speak only broken English. A good deal of challenges await you on Java for sure. Interested in Java? Check out my article with plenty of information about this beautiful island.

A trip to Egypt is probably very high on many Germans' wish lists: The first highlight in the morning is the hotel pool, followed by all-inclusive meals, and in the afternoon, it's off to the vast sandy beach. No question, that sounds like pure relaxation and plenty of sunshine is always guaranteed here. But I can only recommend to anyone traveling to Egypt to look beyond the obvious. Because Egypt has much more to offer than nice hotels, sunny weather, and beaches. In fact, the country is a popular, hidden gem among backpackers. Many travel bloggers and digital nomads are drawn here too.

Let's start with transportation in Egypt. Taxis are generally very cheap - but often only for locals. Ideally, if you speak enough Arabic to negotiate a price. Although dealing with the necessary paperwork can be somewhat complicated, the option to drive through Egypt with a motorcycle or car offers freedom. However, you need a thick skin, and perhaps a solid insurance policy would also be a good idea if you want to tackle the city traffic. Trains, on the other hand, provide a cheap and reliable alternative.

Egyptians are an incredibly warm and friendly people. The largest religious group consists of Muslims, so you should respect the dress code. This should already be clear to you as experienced backpackers. What surprised me was the substantial and friendly Couchsurfing community in Egypt. Through this platform, I met many Egyptians and other backpackers during my trip, and we ventured out together.

I probably don't need to elaborate too much on the sights and experiences Egypt has to offer, as we all know: Egypt is a country with a unique history of ancient sites, sculptures, and writings. That you should visit the Pyramids of Giza in Cairo goes without saying. The Valley of the Kings is also a must-see and impressive attraction. Just a few years ago, 50 mummies were discovered here - and there are still tombs yet to be explored. Beyond the tourist highlights, I recommend a desert tour, as the endless sandy landscapes in the sweltering heat are incredibly fascinating. In Dahab, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and experience the warm-hearted mentality of the locals. Stroll through the colorful markets, try delicious local dishes, and let yourself be carried away by the passion of divers and snorkelers at the idyllic Lighthouse. That is pure Egypt!

Backpacking in South America is something I truly want to encourage you to consider. The world has so much to offer, filled with numerous beautiful places waiting to be discovered. However, the continent of South America is often unjustly classified as too dangerous. Especially Argentina is a country where you can travel relatively worry-free, even as a woman. It is the land of Diego Maradona, juicy steaks, and the hottest tango dancers. It is significantly more western than the Asian countries I've discussed, making it no absolute culture shock for you. For getting around, a rental car or motorcycle is recommended; alternatively, there are modern and affordable buses with comfort for long journeys. Even domestic flights are usually reasonably priced.

What gives the country its special charm, you ask? The list is long, but a few reasons why I recommend Argentina as a backpacker destination include the Argentine mentality imbued with zest for life and energy, and the country's diversity - from vibrant metropolises to endless dry desert landscapes to fascinating glaciers and snow-capped mountains. My experience has shown that this is the perfect place to learn to travel solo, meet people from all over the world, and explore a country full of lovable quirks.

Argentina is so large and captivating that I find it really difficult to limit myself to a few 'must-dos.' But I guess I'll start with the capital: Buenos Aires, oh how you have enchanted me. Here, you'll find countless historical sights and cool neighborhoods that convey the Argentine way of life. Most hotspots are located around the Montserrat district: Marvel at the beautiful Casa Rosada at Plaza de Mayo, where the famous Eva Perón once lived as Argentina's First Lady. Stroll over to Puerto Madero and savor a truly delicious and tender steak in San Telmo. My mouth waters just thinking about it. Recoleta and La Boca are further highlights.

Spread over almost 3 million square kilometers, the country has countless highlights. Travel or fly to the Iguazu Falls, on the borders of Brazil and Paraguay. While you're at it, you can take a side trip to the cultures of both countries. The waterfalls themselves are a breathtaking natural spectacle. The Quebrada de Humahuaca gorge, a 150 km long canyon in the northwest of the country, impresses with massive rocks and dry landscapes in various shades of red. In the Los Glaciares National Park, you'll experience a picturesque landscape filled with glaciers and mountains, and far in the south of the country, in Patagonia, breathtaking glacier panoramas await you.

The last country on my list of destinations for experienced backpackers is Chile. It is not only the top travel trend destination for 2018, but also a true backpacker's paradise. Similar to Argentina, Chile has many facets, yet it is completely different from the land of tango. Extending over 4,300 kilometers and thus the longest country in the world, as you might suspect, it boasts many exciting highlights. And with the length of the country, the landscape changes as well: from arid, dry areas in the north to icy, captivating regions in the south. One thing for sure: Although the routes from north to south are extremely long, you can also travel across Chile easily with long-distance buses that are modern and comfortable - often even with Wi-Fi. Rental cars or airplanes are alternatives, but you'll need to dig a bit deeper into your pockets compared to budget bus trips.

If you speak Spanish, you have nothing to worry about, but even English is almost universally understood here - at least in the bustling regions. Safety is relatively high in Chile - I always felt at ease during my travels, partly because of how uncomplicated and hospitable Chileans are. They would often approach me in the street to greet me warmly. Because the country is absolutely popular among backpackers in South America, you also have the chance to meet many cultures from around the world here.

To kick off your journey, it is certainly worthwhile to target the capital. This can be done easily from most destinations, and as a little teaser, you're treated to the most beautiful view of the Andes upon landing in Santiago de Chile. I promise you: This view will take your breath away! Once you arrive in the hustle and bustle of the big city, there are several notable hotspots right in the city center: A clear highlight of the city is Cerro San Cristobal, the hill from which you get a view of all of Santiago de Chile with the Andes and their snow-capped peaks as a stunning backdrop. Like an incredibly impressive postcard image. Don't miss the impressive presidential palace La Moneda and stroll through the markets and art exhibitions in Bellavista, the artists' district of the city. From Santiago de Chile, you can also reach all other places in Chile.

Not far from the capital lies Valparaíso, the picturesque harbor city on the Pacific. Here, you can experience the origins of Chile and dive deep into its past. The colorful houses and graffiti-decorated walls give the city its unique charm. Anyone who comes here will immediately fall in love, with both the city and the country - oh Chile, you have enchanted me. The neighboring town of Viña del Mar is also absolutely worth seeing, and you can finally dive into the waves of the Pacific and cool off from the hot South American sun. I was particularly impressed by the landscapes in Chile: The Atacama Desert is the driest in the world, and here you can see the most beautiful starry skies. The amazing Marble Caves, natural marble caves, are not to be missed either. If you've had enough of the dry nature, just head further south and stop in the wonderfully green Huerquehue National Park. Waterfalls, alpine forests, and idyllic lakes are simply stunning. Are you enchanted too? More tips can be found here:

These were the countries and places that are best suited for experienced and pro backpackers. Maybe I could inspire you to start your next big trip to a cool foreign land? Or have you already gathered your own experiences on site and want to share them? Then feel free to leave me a comment. And now take the test: If you are curious to see which of the countries suit you best and what your next travel destination should be, then join in!