Wanderlust: Expat Life & Style in Thailand Oct / Nov 2017: The Travel Issue | Page 72

The Wanderlist
9 W O R L D H E R I TA G E   S I T E S
in Southeast Asia
Boasting 37 spots on the list of World Heritage Sites, Southeast
Asia is a natural and historical hotbed of must-see destinations.
Thanks to their inclusion in UNESCO’s protective roster —
for cultural, historical or scientific significance — each one is
several steps closer toward preservation, ensuring enjoyment
for years to come. Here are some of our favorites.
by Annaliese Watkins
1
Halong Bay
Vietnam
Legend has it that the Jade Emperor once sent a dragon
on a mission to shield Vietnam from invaders. As the scaly
beast descended into the waters of Halong Bay, it be-
gan spraying pearls and jade from its mouth. These pre-
cious gems then turned into the many islands and islets
that form a protective wall around Vietnam. The tower-
ing rocks and scattered enclaves comprising the excess of
1,600 islands of Halong Bay are no longer required for de-
fense, but they have found a new purpose: delighting and
inspiring travelers with their ethereal beauty.
Topped by thick jungle growth and swimming in twin-
kling azure waters, the lakes, caves and floating villages
that surround the bay are typically explored by a tradi-
tional Vietnamese junk-boat. Though recent years have
seen throngs of tourists take to the bay and spark cries of
overcrowding, the site is still a must-see.
Getting there: Closest to Hanoi, Halong Bay can be easily
reached by seaplane, train, and bus, plus there are plenty
of private tours that can be booked from the capital.
2
Historic City of Ayutthaya
Thailand
Finding a spot on the World Heritage site list in 1991,
Ayutthaya was once one of the world’s largest and most
cosmopolitan urban areas as well as a center of global
diplomacy and commerce. But following a devastating at-
tack by the Burmese in 1767, the city was burned to the
ground and abandoned.
It was never rebuilt.
What stands today are the remains of stunning ancient
temples and palaces, each laying claim to reports that
Ayutthaya was once magnificent — and it still is. From a po-
sition on a riverine island between the Chao Phraya, Lopburi
and Prasak rivers, gilded chedis and Khmer-style spires are
perched atop the intricate structures, their burnt orange fa-
cades contrasting sharply against sunny cyan skies.
Getting there: Though typically visited during a pack-
aged day-tour from Bangkok, Ayutthaya can be reached
independently by private taxi hire, train, or a bus from Mo
Chit bus terminal. At just 80 km from Bangkok, the hour
and a half journey is well worth it.
72 WANDERLUST
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