Published on April 7, 2024
Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Southeast Asia’s vibrant and diverse landscapes? Get set for the Southeast Asia Challenge (#SoutheastAsiaChallenge), our thrilling mock-reality TV adventure competition spanning all 10 Southeast Asian countries, unfolding exclusively on our Instagram channel – @VisitSoutheastAsiaOfficial.
What is the Southeast Asia Challenge?
We’re sending our three influencers, Kinya, Mel B, and Tinger, on an epic journey through each of the 10 Southeast Asian countries, with each stop lasting approximately 3-4 days. From the bustling streets of Hanoi and rich heritage sites in Luang Prabang to the family-fun soft adventures in Singapore to the tranquil shores of Bali, participants will immerse themselves in local culture, savour some of the world’s most delectable cuisines, pamper themselves with spa treatments and engage in adventures most have only read about or seen on social media. However, these unique experiences are not given… They are earned!
These influencers are on a mission to capture captivating content, from awe-inspiring landscapes to heartwarming cultural encounters, all for your votes on Instagram.
Our participants will enjoy basic accommodations at each destination, including cosy stays at hotels and sponsored local meals or takeout to fuel their adventures. But the real excitement lies in the chance to win exclusive upgrades and prizes along the way.
Throughout the #SoutheastAsiaChallenge, you can vote for your favourite influencers’ content that showcases their experience in each country on our Instagram stories on @visitsoutheastasiaofficial. The fan votes determine who enjoys these coveted experience upgrades at each stop along the journey. It’s an interactive and exhilarating experience that puts our influencers’ fate in your hands, creating a dynamic and engaging competition unlike any other.
Exploring the Heart of Southeast Asia
Each leg of this journey will take our influencers to some of the most iconic destinations across the Southeast Asian region, where they will immerse themselves in thrilling activities and cultural experiences. Let’s dive into their itinerary and take a sneak peek at what they will explore and what they can win.
Hanoi, Viet Nam (April 3rd): To kick off the adventure in Hanoi, influencers will travel through the bustling streets on a cyclo tour, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city. Then, in the afternoon, they will hit the waters at Bac Pier for a paddleboarding session.
The winner will get a Hanoi Street Eats After Dark walking tour, experiencing an essential part of Hanoi’s unique urban culture. The tour will go through the Old Quarter, where the winner will go to local coffee shops and vendors to try out local snacks, such as pillow cake and fried sweet cakes, and dishes like Pho Ga (Vietnamese noodle soup with chicken) and Banh Mi (baguette with pate).
Luang Prabang, Lao PDR (April 6th): Next, our adventurers will find themselves in the enchanting town of Luang Prabang. They will embark on a scenic cycling tour through lush countryside and quaint villages. Their adventures do not stop there as the influencers will kayak at the Nam Khan River in the afternoon, paddling through the pristine waters on a thrilling kayaking expedition.
The winner with the most votes will spend an evening of traditional Lao storytelling and dinner in Luang Prabang’s historic old town the following evening. They will spend an evening of storytelling with Garavek and learn about the local myths, legends, and folktales. A Lao storyteller will present stories in English, with a live accompaniment of the khene, a Lao folk mouth instrument.
Siem Reap, Cambodia (April 9th): As their journey continues, our influencers will venture to the ancient city of Siem Reap, home to the magnificent Angkor Park. They will embark on a quad bike tour to explore the ancient ruins of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
The winner with the most votes on our Instagram Stories Poll of this part of the adventure will experience an Ancient Sunset Cruise! The winner will go on a VIP Gondola boat and cruise the serene waters on a sunset experience. The cruise is a relaxing and enjoyable experience where travellers will gaze at the vista of the Cambodian countryside and watch the most stunning sunset in Angkor Thom.
Bagan, Myanmar (April 11th): Next, our influencers will explore the breathtaking temples of Bagan, an archaeological marvel full of history and spirituality. In the afternoon, they’ll wander amidst ancient pagodas and temples for a treasure hunt, capturing the mystical beauty of this iconic landscape.
The winner with the most votes in this part of the adventure will enjoy a spa treatment at Aureum Palace Resort. They will choose one of the many Healing Massage Therapy options they provide, such as the Bagan Traditional/Aureum Art therapy. This option is a massage technique that draws on acupuncture, which aims to improve blood circulation, relieve entrapped nerves, and loosen stiff muscles; however, the winner will be able to select from a list of several difference massage options.
Phuket, Thailand (April 16th): The adventure will then take our influencers to new heights in Phuket, where they will hit the waves for a surfing lesson and experience Muay Thai for the first time.
While all the influencers will be housed at the Burasari Phuket Hotel while they are in Phuket, the winner will enjoy an upgrade to a one-bedroom private pool villa at Villa Escape Burasari and get pampered with a Suuko Synergy Thai & Aroma Massage. This massage is a luxurious and personalized experience managed by handpicked therapists from an elite class of the Suuko Academy.
The massage is designed to synchronize acupressure with aroma therapy. This experience will immerse you in a cultural custom that reflects the luxurious legacy of Thai Heritage.
Singapore (April 19th): Following their sandy escapades in Phuket, our intrepid influencers continue their journey to the bustling city-state of Singapore, promising a plethora of thrills and opportunities. Settling into the modern luxury of The Clan Hotel Singapore by Far East Hospitality, a beacon of contemporary elegance with a storied past, our adventurers are poised for an unforgettable experience.
As the sun ascends, so do our influencers, making their way to the iconic Marina Bay Sands Skypark to kick-start their day with a rejuvenating Pilates session, taking in panoramic views of the city skyline. But the excitement doesn’t end there. Come afternoon, they’ll venture to Trifecta Singapore for a unique indoor surfing experience, riding waves without ever leaving the city limits.
As the evening approaches, the culinary magic unfolds at Ruqxana’s Cookery Magic, where our participants immerse themselves in a hands-on cooking class, crafting five delectable dishes to tantalize the taste buds.
From dawn till dusk, Singapore beckons with many experiences, promising our influencers a day brimming with adventure, indulgence, and cultural immersion.
As morning dawns, the #SoutheastAsiaChallenge participant with the highest vote tally on their photos will earn an exclusive experience at Scent by SIX’s Scent and Perfume Workshop.
The winner will experience a captivating olfactory journey that embodies the beauty of a blossoming garden from Scent by SIX. As they delve deeper into this aromatic tapestry, they will discover a heart composed of jasmine, lavender, lily-of-the-valley, and Bulgarian rose, capturing the garden’s essence. Each note they smell will unfold like delicate flower petals, filling the air with an irresistible allure. The fragrance’s final act during the workshop reveals a comforting embrace of sandalwood, amber, musk, green tea, precious woods, and cedar, grounding the scent in nature’s timeless elegance. This fragrance invites you to immerse yourself in the boundless artistry of nature’s captivating narrative.
Bohol, Philippines (April 22nd): Their adventure will take our influencers to the Philippines, where they will have all the activities at Chocolate Hills Adventure Park to experience, from zip-lining amidst lush greenery to conquering rope courses high above the treetops. As night falls, they will embark on a magical firefly-watching excursion, witnessing nature’s dazzling light show in the heart of the Philippines.
The winner will have a dining experience at Paprika Restaurant. Considered one of the best restaurants in Bohol, Paprika is situated on the edge of a cliff with spectacular views of the sea. They serve exceptional world-class cuisine with a menu that features the freshest catch of the day.
Brunei Darussalam (April 25th): Brunei’s lush rainforests beckon as our influencers embark on a tour of Ulu Temburong National Park, a pristine wilderness teeming with exotic wildlife and cascading waterfalls. They will have an unforgettable journey into the heart of Brunei’s natural beauty.
The winner in this leg of the trip will receive a 60-minute spa treatment. The resort is remotely situated within nature to nurture your mind, body, and spirit.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (April 28th): From the majestic Batu Caves to the adrenaline-pumping thrills of wakeboarding at Mines Lake, Kuala Lumpur offers a perfect blend of adventure and cultural discovery. Our influencers will dive headfirst into the vibrant tapestry of Malaysian culture, capturing every moment along the way.
The winner will win a Diner Date In The Sky. They will eat dinner 282 meters above ground in a posh revolving restaurant. As they dine, they will have a panoramic view of Kuala Lumpur. The winner can also bring a guest to enjoy a fine dinner and a beautiful view of Kuala Lumpur.
Bali, Indonesia (May 1st): As our journey draws to a close, our adventurers will find themselves on the sun-drenched shores of Bali. They’ll pedal through Ubud’s famous rice fields and villages on an exhilarating cycling tour. And for the ultimate adrenaline rush, they’ll brave the rapids of Bali’s rivers on a white-water rafting adventure to remember.
The final prize of the trip is a Spiritual Healing and sunset Over The Indian Ocean. The winner will visit the home of Ibu Mangku. A mangku, a priest who practices the ancient art of spiritual healing and guided meditation, will guide guests through a spiritual healing ceremony. After their spiritual experience, the winner will depart for the La Brisa Canggu Beach Club to enjoy the sunset.
Follow their adventure!
Beyond the thrill of the competition, the Southeast Asia Challenge is about more than entertainment. It celebrates the incredible diversity and beauty of the ASEAN region, showcasing its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality to a global audience.
Get ready to follow along as our influencers embark on the journey of a lifetime, exploring the wonders of Southeast Asia and sharing their experiences with the world. From heart-pounding adventures to soul-stirring cultural encounters, the Southeast Asia Challenge promises an unforgettable ride from start to finish. Don’t miss out on the action – join us on our Instagram page @visitsoutheastasiaofficial as we uncover the beauty and excitement of this diverse and enchanting region!
Amazing Collaborators
Burasari Phuket – Burasari Phuket is a boutique resort 50 meters from Patong Beach. Relax in their smart, stylish rooms where luxury and comfort go hand in hand. Also, you can check in to their award-winning Spa Burasari for rejuvenating treatments
Villa Escape Burasari – Island Escape by Burasari is located on Koh Maphrao, a 10-minute boat ride away from Phuket. Their resort and private villas provides an ideal quiet getaways, romantic holidays, family gatherings, and secluded corporate retreats. Enjoy the resort’s fabulous facilities of pools and beach, landscaped gardens, spa and wellness programs and adventure excursions, water slides, wet and dry playgrounds.
The Clan Hotel Singapore – The Clan Hotel Singapore officially opened on 1 March 2021, making it the first property to debut under The Clan Hotel brand by Far East Hospitality, and anchoring the group’s vision in rethinking what luxury means to a new generation of experience-driven travellers. Situated at the crossroads of culture and commerce within the Far East Square heritage precinct and Telok Ayer district, The Clan Hotel is mere minutes away from commercial buildings in Raffles Place and Tanjong Pagar; cultural sites around Chinatown; as well as uniquely Singaporean sights such as Marina Bay and Gardens by the Bay.
The story of The Clan Hotel and its operating philosophy is unique in that it tells the story of Singapore’s forefathers in a contemporary setting—The Clan Hotel was built to reflect the success stories of humble immigrants and their strong bond that lasted through the generations, from past to present.
Scent by SIX– Scent by SIX is a fragrance label, made in collaboration with world-renowned perfumers, and is proudly a Singaporean brand.
Born from a profound belief held by their founder, Jason Lee: that fragrance transcends mere aroma to become a force of comfort and healing, a balm for the soul. Driven by this conviction, Jason stepped away from his career, venturing into the uncharted territories of scent with a mission to touch lives.
The brand’s vision, “Every Mood Lifted” goes beyond a mere statement; it represents the commitment to redefining the role of scent in enhancing everyday life. Scent by SIX hold these tenets close to their hearts: the power of scent is immense, and its ability to soothe, heal, and inspire is at the heart of everything we create.
Trifecta Singapore – Trifecta is Asia’s first lifestyle destination for surfing, snowboarding, skiing, & skateboarding all under one roof. It has Asia’s largest standing wave pool and the world’s first hybrid skate bowl, which is designed for both skateboarding and surfskating.
