23/01/2026

LYFE FRIDAY | JAN 23, 2026

/thesuntelegram FOLLOW / Malaysian Paper

ON TELEGRAM m RAM

22

I MMERSION in local culture and history is the second most common reason for travellers to discover new destinations, according to Scoot’s white paper on solo travelling. Nowhere is this diversity more vibrant than in Asia, a region filled with heritage and deeply rooted cultural identities that tell stories of its history. Travelling is not just about seeing new places but about experiencing different ways of life. It opens our eyes to how people think, celebrate, connect and move through their day. So, if you are planning a trip to neighbouring countries, understanding the cultural values and everyday practices that shape people’s lives will allow you to appreciate what makes each destination special. Here is a simple guide to some of Asia’s fascinating destinations where culture shapes your experience at every turn. Thailand: Land of respect, festive spirit In Thailand, respect is not just spoken, it is lived. The wai – a greeting made by putting your palms together, while dipping the head, reflects a society built on harmony and humility. Used to greet, thank or apologise, it is a daily expression of mutual respect. For visitors, returning a wai is a simple but meaningful way to connect with Thai values. For adventurous eaters, Thailand’s food culture shines in its streets. Beyond pad thai , locals often snack on crispy deep-fried silkworms, crickets and grasshoppers seasoned with spices or the well-known Golden Mountain Sauce. These crunchy bites are not just novelties, they show a culture that embraces bold flavours and communal snacking – best shared over laughter and a cold beer. To truly feel the artistic heart of Thailand, visit the Bo Sang Handicrafts Festival held in the small village of Bo Sang, Chiang Mai. Every January, the village bursts with colourful parades, glowing lanterns and stalls showcasing world-famous handmade umbrellas. The festival highlights the Thai cultural spirit of craftsmanship, colour and celebration. movement, moments Vietnam’s cultural rhythm can be summed up in one image: traffic that never stops moving. Crossing the Vietnam: Country full of

Vietnam is home to one of the world’s most unusual coffees: Weasel coffee.

Asia up close o Explore, experience the mesmerising cultures of Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Philippines

Laos: Place rooted in peace, spiritual balance In Laos, culture runs deep, guided by spirituality and calm rhythms. One of the most meaningful ways to experience this is through the Baci Ceremony, where a white string is gently tied around your wrist. This ritual symbolises calling back the body’s 32 spirits, restoring balance and wishing you good fortune. Another ritual unfolds along the streets each dawn: Tak Bat , the daily alms-giving ceremony. Buddhist monks walk in silence as locals offer simple meals. In Luang Prabang, rows of saffron-robed monks bathed in morning light create a sacred moment. This ritual embodies Laos’ cultural values of humility, generosity and spiritual devotion. Then there is the Borpenyang mindset, the Lao philosophy of “no problem”. This worldview explains the nation’s calm resilience and unhurried way of life. Despite a

street becomes an act of trust: You walk steadily and the motorbikes naturally adjust around you. Here, jaywalking is not rebellion but simply a lifestyle. This organised chaos reflects the Vietnamese spirit, built on adaptability, confidence and constant motion. To see a quieter side of city life, take a cyclo ride – a three-wheeled bike-carriage that has shaped urban life since the early 20th century. Once reserved for the wealthy, this form of transport is now a leisurely way to slow down and see the streets at a different pace. It is a reminder that beneath Vietnam’s rapid pace lies a culture that still values simplicity. Beyond traffic, Vietnam is also home to one of the world’s most unusual coffees: weasel coffee. Made from beans digested by civets, its naturally enhanced flavour creates a rich, velvety brew that many coffee lovers consider a bucket-list tasting experience.

Filipino culture shines through in its warmth, making every encounter feel personal and memorable.

practice called Hilot which means “to knead” or “to massage”. Led by trained manghihilot healers, Hilot reflects a cultural belief that wellness comes from harmony between body, mind and nature. Whether through food, healing or hospitality, Filipino culture shines through in its warmth, making every encounter feel personal and memorable. If you are looking to explore more destinations that offer rich stories and connection, Scoot makes cultural exploration more accessible than ever, offering flights to Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and the Philippines. So, pack your curiosity and start booking your flight to experience your next unforgettable journey.

challenging history and being one of Southeast Asia’s less developed nations, Laotians maintain a positive and easy-going attitude. However, this relaxed approach also means that urgency is not a part of daily life. So do not be surprised if transport runs late or schedules shift. Philippines: Culture of warmth, healing, adventure Filipino culture is vibrant and full of warmth. For those who are daring, try balut , a fertilised duck egg with a developing embryo inside, boiled and eaten with salt and vinegar – a bold introduction to the country’s vibrant street food culture. Beyond food, the Philippines offers a unique cultural healing

In Laos, culture runs deep, guided by spirituality and calm rhythms.

For adventurous eaters, Thailand’s food culture shines in its streets.