Before planning your trip, it is worth knowing a few details about the weather in the most popular Asian countries.
Burma
The best time to visit Burma is in winter. December to February is the least rainy period, and temperatures are more bearable for European tourists than in spring. From March to May, temperatures in Yangon reach 40ºC, and around Bagan and Mandalay it's even warmer. If you're not afraid of record-breaking temperatures, you can also catch the Burmese New Year, which falls in mid-April. The rainy season in Burma begins in late May and reaches its peak from July to September.
China
For a country of such vast size, it's best to check the weather in the region you plan to visit. China's tourist season runs from May to August, with prices peaking during the May long weekend. China's rather harsh winter lasts from November to February, with warm weather only in the far south of the country. If you're planning to visit one of the major cities, good weather in Beijing lasts from June to September, in Shanghai from July to September, and in Hong Kong from October to November.
Indonesia
Looking for an exotic summer getaway? Indonesia is the perfect choice! Traveling to one of Indonesia's islands in July and August won't disappoint. Great weather prevails in most parts of the archipelago, with the exception of Maluku and Papua. The rainy season in Bali, Java, and Lombok lasts from October to April – these popular islands are best visited in May, June, and September, when the weather is warm but not as humid.
Japan
If you want to experience ideal weather, it's best to travel to Japan in April and May. Plus, you'll get to see some picturesque scenery. Hanami cherry blossom festivalDespite the heat and humidity, it's also worth considering traveling in August during the O-Bon festival, Japan's equivalent of All Souls' Day, where you can admire famous traditional Japanese dances. Japan's rainy season runs from June to July, while the ski season runs from January to March.
Kambodża
Although Cambodia's rainy season lasts from May to September, many seasoned travelers consider it a good time to visit this picturesque country. Attractive hotel prices, lush greenery, deserted temples, and variable weather also make this a popular choice. September and October are even better, with less rain and temperatures still conducive to exploring the ancient sites, of which Cambodia abounds.
Laos
The best time to travel to Laos is from November to March, although when planning a trip, you should be aware of the cold climate in the higher elevations of the country. April and May are record-breakingly hot, with temperatures well above 30 degrees Celsius, while the rainy season lasts from July to October.
Malezja
The rainy season there lasts from March to July, but summer is a popular time for trips to the eastern part – to the islands of Tioman, Terengganu, Redang, and Palau Perhentian. A trip to Malaysia in June or July is not a bad idea, as long as you avoid the western islands of Penang, Langkawi, and Pangkor. The high season, which lasts from December to February, is also the rainy season for the eastern part of the Malaysian peninsula and the western part of Sarawak, the Malaysian part of the Borneo peninsula.
Sri Lanka
The best chances for good weather across Sri Lanka are in May and September. The high season lasts from December to March, but the Maha monsoon keeps the eastern and northern parts of the country wet from October to January. The best time to visit these regions is from May to August, when the Yala monsoon brings rain to southern and western Sri Lanka.
Tajlandia
The best time to travel in Thailand is from November to March, although it's best to avoid the Christmas and New Year period, when prices skyrocket and tourist numbers become overwhelming. September and October are the transitional period between the rainy and dry seasons and a great time to explore northern Thailand and the coast along the Gulf of Thailand. July to October is the rainy season, with heavy rainfall and even flooding in some regions.
Vietnam
It's difficult to choose a single ideal time to travel to Vietnam, as this part of Southeast Asia has the most complex climate. Unfortunately, there's a good chance you'll encounter rain sooner or later. If you want to explore the entire country, it's best to go in autumn or spring. However, it's definitely worth avoiding the central and northern coasts of Vietnam from August to November due to typhoons.
You already know where and when you can go. Check out what you can eat (recipes) and it's time to book your tickets. Where are you going? :)