
Southeast Asia
Must-Have Apps
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Southeast Asia with the aid of our handpicked selection of local apps. Say goodbye to tourist traps and hello to authentic experiences as you navigate vibrant streets, savor exotic flavors, and uncover hidden gems like a seasoned explorer. From hopping on the right tuk-tuk to discovering the most mouthwatering street eats, these apps are your passport to feeling like a local in every corner of this enchanting region.
Let the journey begin – with these indispensable tools, your Southeast Asian odyssey promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.
1. Grab

It's a no-brainer to place the Grab app at the top spot for travelers heading to Southeast Asia. This versatile app excels in providing convenience and making traveling in the region much easier than before. With its extensive range of services, Grab is a game-changer for navigating bustling cities and exploring remote areas alike.
​
When you open the Grab app, you're greeted with a plethora of options to choose from. Whether you need a ride to your next destination, want to order food to your doorstep, or seek the convenience of cashless payments, Grab has got you covered. From GrabCar for private car rides to GrabBike for navigating through traffic on a motorcycle, and even GrabFood for satisfying your hunger cravings, the app offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to your needs.
​
One of the standout features of the Grab app is its user-friendly interface available entirely in English. This accessibility makes it easy for travelers to navigate and use the app without any language barriers. Additionally, Grab allows you to link your credit card effortlessly, minimizing the need for carrying cash during your travels. This not only adds to the convenience but also enhances safety and security while on the go.
​
Personally, I find myself relying heavily on the Grab app for transportation, whether it's hopping into a car or catching a ride on the back of a motorbike. The convenience of being able to order food straight to my accommodation, especially when I'm not feeling up to heading out or when I'm under the weather, is also a game-changer. With Grab, exploring Southeast Asia becomes not only easier but also more enjoyable and stress-free.
​
Download the App for iOS or Android here or go to the website.
2. 12Go

In Southeast Asia, finding where to purchase train tickets, bus tickets, ferry tickets, and the like has historically been a challenge. The online landscape lacked user-friendly platforms catered to international travelers. Recognizing this gap in the market, 12Go.Asia emerged as a solution, revolutionizing the way travelers plan and book transportation across the region.
​
The 12Go.Asia app provides a convenient platform for travelers to search, compare, and book various transportation options in Southeast Asia. From trains and buses to ferries and flights, the app offers a comprehensive selection of routes and schedules, making it an invaluable tool to have on your phone when navigating through the region.
​
While 12Go.Asia has undoubtedly made the search for transportation options much more manageable, it's essential to acknowledge some drawbacks. The convenience of the platform comes with added costs per ticket, and not all routes or modes of transportation are available through 12Go. Despite these limitations, many travelers still find value in having the app at their disposal to assist with trip planning, even if it's not always their first choice.
​
In conclusion, while 12Go.Asia may not be the perfect solution for every traveler's needs, it remains a handy tool for navigating the complexities of transportation in Southeast Asia. Its user-friendly interface and extensive database of routes make it a valuable resource, albeit with some trade-offs in terms of convenience and cost.
​
Download the App for iOS or Android here or go to the website.
In a world where travelers are constantly seeking convenience and savings, Wayaway emerges as a game-changer in the realm of travel booking apps. This innovative platform offers everything a discerning traveler could need, from booking flights and accommodations to arranging activities, all while providing cashback rewards with every booking.
The concept behind Wayaway is rooted in affiliate marketing, where websites pay to attract customers and generate sales. Wayaway takes on the role of an affiliate marketer but with a twist – it shares a portion of the earnings with its users. This means that every time you make a booking through Wayaway, you not only enjoy the convenience of a seamless booking experience but also earn cashback as a reward for your patronage.
​
The versatility of Wayaway is one of its most appealing features. Whether you're in search of budget-friendly flights, cozy accommodations, or exciting excursions, Wayaway has you covered. The app seamlessly integrates all these services into one platform, streamlining the travel planning process and saving you both time and money.
​
During my experience using the app, I did notice occasional delays in loading times. However, the prospect of earning between 2% and 8% cashback on each booking more than makes up for any minor inconveniences. The amount of cashback you receive varies depending on the type of booking you make, but the opportunity to earn back a portion of your travel expenses is undeniably enticing.
For travelers who appreciate the idea of receiving something extra for their loyalty, Wayaway is definitely worth a try. Not only does it simplify the booking process and offer competitive prices, but it also rewards you for choosing to book through its platform. With Wayaway, every journey becomes not only an adventure but also a rewarding experience in more ways than one.
​
Download the App for iOS or Android here or go to the website.
In today's digital age, staying connected while traveling has become essential. Gone are the days of purchasing physical SIM cards in each destination; instead, travelers now have the option of using eSims for seamless connectivity. Airalo emerges as a leading app in this space, offering a wide range of eSim deals at affordable prices for travelers seeking connectivity on the go.
​
The concept of eSims represents a significant shift from traditional SIM cards. Unlike physical SIM cards that require insertion into a device, eSims are embedded directly into compatible smartphones or devices. This eliminates the need for swapping SIM cards and allows travelers to activate multiple eSims on a single device, making it a more convenient and flexible solution for international travel.
​
What sets Airalo apart is its comprehensive selection of eSim deals for destinations worldwide. Whether you're traveling to Southeast Asia or beyond, Airalo has eSims available for all your connectivity needs. The app's user-friendly interface makes it easy to browse and compare deals, ensuring you find the best option for your travels.
​
One of the standout features of Airalo is its regular discount codes, allowing travelers to enjoy even greater savings on their eSim purchases. While the market for eSims is becoming increasingly crowded with new providers and promotions, Airalo stands out for its reliability and transparency. Through the app, users can easily track their remaining credit and manage their eSim usage, providing peace of mind throughout their travels.
​
While I occasionally explore other eSim providers for promotional offers, Airalo remains my preferred choice due to its reliability and extensive range of options. With Airalo, travelers can rest assured that they're dealing with a trusted provider offering a wide selection of eSims, making it the ideal companion for those journeying to Southeast Asia and beyond.
​
Download the App for iOS or Android here or go to the website.
Trip.com, originating from China, has established itself as a go-to platform for travelers exploring Southeast Asia, offering a comprehensive range of flights, accommodations, and sightseeing tours in the region. While the app and website may appear a bit overwhelming at times, with numerous pop-ups vying for attention, the benefits far outweigh any minor inconveniences. Here's why Trip.com is your ultimate companion for navigating Southeast Asia.
One of the standout features of Trip.com is its extensive selection of options for flights, accommodations, and activities across Southeast Asia. Whether you're searching for budget-friendly options or luxury experiences, Trip.com presents a wide range of choices tailored to every traveler's needs and preferences. What sets Trip.com apart is its inclusion of local airlines in its comparisons, often offering the most competitive prices for flights within the region.
​
While the abundance of pop-ups and notifications on the Trip.com platform may initially seem overwhelming, it's a small price to pay for accessing some of the best deals and discounts available. By embracing the occasional inconvenience, travelers can unlock significant savings on flights, accommodations, and activities, making their Southeast Asian adventures more affordable and accessible than ever before.
​
Moreover, Trip.com's user-friendly interface and intuitive design make it easy for travelers to navigate through the multitude of options available. Whether you're booking a last-minute flight or planning an elaborate itinerary, Trip.com streamlines the booking process, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish. With real-time updates and instant confirmation, travelers can book with confidence, knowing that their plans are in good hands.
In conclusion, Trip.com emerges as an indispensable tool for travelers exploring Southeast Asia, offering a vast array of options at competitive prices. Despite the occasional barrage of pop-ups, the benefits of using Trip.com far outweigh any minor inconveniences. With its wide selection of flights, accommodations, and activities, Trip.com simplifies the travel planning process and helps travelers make the most of their adventures in Southeast Asia.
​
Go to the website here.
6. Eatigo

As a seasoned traveler in Southeast Asia, I've had my fair share of dining experiences, and I can confidently say that Eatigo stands out as the ultimate app for foodies exploring the region. While there are plenty of similar apps available, Eatigo's unique features and unparalleled savings make it the top choice for savvy travelers seeking culinary adventures.
​
My journey with Eatigo began with a simple search for dining deals in Bangkok, and I was immediately impressed by the app's user-friendly interface and extensive selection of restaurants. From trendy cafes to upscale eateries, Eatigo offers discounts of up to 50% off on meals at a wide range of establishments, making dining out not only delicious but also affordable.
​
What sets Eatigo apart from its competitors is its seamless booking process and transparent pricing. Unlike other apps that may require upfront payment or impose hidden fees, Eatigo's pricing is straightforward and honest. Simply select your desired restaurant and time slot, make a reservation through the app, and enjoy your meal knowing that you're getting the best deal possible.
​
In comparison to similar apps like Chope and OpenTable, Eatigo consistently outperforms its competitors in terms of savings and selection. While these apps may offer discounts at select restaurants, Eatigo's extensive network of partners ensures that there's something for everyone, whether you're craving local street food or international cuisine.
One of the most significant advantages of Eatigo is its presence across multiple countries in Southeast Asia. Whether you're exploring the vibrant food scene of Bangkok, indulging in Singaporean hawker fare, or sampling Vietnamese delicacies in Ho Chi Minh City, Eatigo has you covered with a diverse array of dining options at unbeatable prices.
​
In conclusion, Eatigo stands as the ultimate dining companion for travelers in Southeast Asia, offering unparalleled savings and a hassle-free booking experience. With its extensive selection of restaurants, transparent pricing, and user-friendly interface, Eatigo reigns supreme as the go-to app for food lovers exploring the culinary delights of the region.
​
Download the App for iOS or Android here or go to the website.