Violence along the Cambodia–Thailand border has escalated, prompting new travel advisories.
Asia is still a great place to travel in winter. For lots of reasons.
- Lower costs: Average daily costs for visitors and backpackers are lower.
- Holiday timing: Americans often use year‑end holidays to take extended trips abroad since Asia’s affordability is more attractive compared to Europe.
- Avoiding Lunar New Year crowds coming in February.
But this year there are some warnings – if you’re headed to Cambodia or Thailand.
The Australian Smartraveller advisory urges travelers to avoid areas within 50 km of the border due to armed conflict, military strikes, and landmines.
Even popular Thai destinations like Bangkok and Phuket carry risks of terrorism and protests.
The border conflict makes travel unpredictable and potentially dangerous.
Safer Jetsetter Alternatives in Asia
We suggest you try Malaysia and/or Vietnam.
First, Malaysia.
We’ve toured both Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
Both vibrant and welcoming.
Kuala Lumpur: Cosmopolitan hub with vibrant food scenes and iconic landmarks like the Petronas Towers.
Here is a travel advisory for Malaysia.
And check out our stay in Malaysia here.
Penang: George Town’s street art and culinary heritage offer culture‑rich exploration.
Also Penang is Asia’s medical tourism capital.
Next, Vietnam.
Vietnam continues to shine as a safe, affordable, and culturally rich destination.
Our Undercover Jetsetter segments highlight that for you.
We have two spots for you to try.
The first is Danang. If you had relatives who fought in the Vietnam War, you will recognize the name as a US military base was there.
Today, Danang is a beach-goers paradise.
Here is our stay in Danang with stunning beaches and great food.
Then we take you to Nha Trang with more great beaches and food along with historical sites to visit.
Undercover Jetsetter Takeaway
Travel safety is not just about avoiding danger. It’s about choosing destinations where you can thrive without worry. With the Thailand-Cambodia border conflict escalating, Malaysia and Vietnam stand out as secure, culturally rich, and affordable alternatives.
Our past segments prove these countries deliver unforgettable experiences without the risks currently shadowing Thailand.
And December is the sweet spot: lower costs, great weather, and fewer crowds before Lunar New Year.
If you’re there, let us know.
And visit our Amazon Store for great travel items you need as a Jetsetter.
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John Daly and Susan Anzalone are the Co-Creators and Co-Hosts of Undercover Jetsetter, a show on travel, food, and booze. They show you how to jet set the world and at home. They also co-authored the book, The TV Studio In Your Hand: How to Shoot, Edit & Deliver the Easy Way on Your iPhone. Join them for tips and hacks on the road, at home, or in the kitchen, and all over the world. And yes, as you will see, all on the iPhone. Susan is an expert in food and wine since her childhood days in Australia and then the United States, being the daughter of two lifelong employees of Pan Am Airlines. John is also a world traveler starting when he studied in Italy through his alma mater Providence College. John is also a Nevada Hall of Fame Broadcaster during his years as a Las Vegas news anchor at KTNV. He gained international fame as the host of the first all-video news magazine show, Real TV while also securing his bartending and mixology credentials from the Harvard Bartending School. You can follow them here on the free Wingding app on the Food and Travel Channels, on YouTube, Facebook, X, and Instagram.