Countries of Southeast Asia: a list for tourists. General characteristics of the region. Southeast Asia (SEA)
Introduction
1. Natural resources
2. Population
3. Agriculture
4. Transport
5. Foreign economic relations
6. Recreation and tourism
7. general characteristics farms
8. Industry
9. Natural conditions
Conclusion
List of sources used
Introduction
Southeast Asia is located on the territory of the Indochina Peninsula and numerous islands of the Malay Archipelago. The countries of the region border on South and East Asia, Australia and Oceania. The region consists of 10 countries: Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia, Indonesia, Philippines, Brunei, Singapore and East Timor.
Southeast Asia connects Eurasia with Australia, at the same time delimiting the basins of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The territory of the region is washed by seas, the largest of which are the South China and Philippine Seas of the Pacific Ocean, the Andaman Sea of the Indian Ocean.
Important air and sea routes run through the countries of Southeast Asia: the Strait of Malacca is as important for world shipping as strait of Gibraltar, Panama and Suez Canals.
Location between two ancient cells of civilization and the largest population of states modern world- China and India - affected the formation of the political map of the region, the processes of economic development, ethnic and religious composition population, cultural development.
Among the states of the region, there is one absolute monarchy - Brunei, three constitutional ones - Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, all the others are republics.
The countries of Southeast Asia are members of the UN. All but Cambodia are members of ASEAN; Indonesia - in OPEC; Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Philippines, Brunei, Vietnam - to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation block.
1. Natural resources
The bowels of the territory have been poorly explored, but the explored reserves indicate rich deposits of mineral resources. There was a lot of hard coal in the region, only in the north of Vietnam there are insignificant reserves of it. In the shelf zone of Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei, oil and gas are produced. The world's largest metallogenic "Tin Belt" of Asia stretches through the region. Mesozoic deposits determined the richest reserves of non-ferrous metals: tin (in Indonesia - 1.5 million tons, Malaysia and Thailand - 1.2 million tons each), tungsten (reserves in Thailand - 25 thousand tons, Malaysia - 20 thousand tons). The region is rich in copper, zinc, lead, molybdenum, nickel, antimony, gold, cobalt, the Philippines - in copper and gold. Non-metallic minerals are represented by potash salt (Thailand, Laos), apatite (Vietnam), precious stones (sapphire, topaz, ruby) in Thailand.
Agro-climatic and soil resources. A warm and humid climate is the main prerequisite for a relatively high efficiency of agriculture; 2-3 crops are harvested here throughout the year. On fairly fertile red and yellow feralite soils, many agricultural crops of the hot zone are grown (rice, coconut palm, rubber tree - hevea, bananas, pineapples, tea, spices). On the islands, not only coastal areas are used, but also mountain slopes smoothed by volcanic activity (terraced agriculture).
Water resources are actively used for land irrigation in all countries. Moisture deficiency in the dry season requires considerable expenditures for the construction of irrigation facilities. Water mountain arteries of the peninsula of Indochina (Irrawaddy, Maenam, Mekong) and numerous mountain rivers of the islands are able to provide electricity needs.
The forest resources are exceptionally rich. The region is located in the Southern Forest Belt, forests cover 42% of its territory. Numerous forest areas have Brunei (87%), Cambodia (69%), Indonesia (60%), Laos (57%), and in Singapore the total forest area is only 7% (the lowest in the region). The forests of the region are especially rich in wood, which has very valuable properties (strength, fire resistance, water repellency, attractive color): tock, sandalwood, trees of the legume family, native species pines, sundri tree (mangrove), palms.
Fish resources coastal zone seas and inland waters are of considerable importance in every country: fish and other marine products are widely used in the diet of the population. On some islands of the Malay Archipelago, pearls and mother-of-pearl shells are mined.
Rich natural resource potential and favorable climatic conditions regions provide an opportunity to engage in agriculture throughout the year, and a variety of mineral resources contribute to the development of the mining industry and oil refining. Due to the existence of valuable species of trees, the forest area is a traditional area. However, due to intensive deforestation, their area decreases every year, which worsens the ecological balance. This predetermines the need for environmental protection measures that are carried out in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and other countries to preserve the unique flora and fauna of the region.
2. Population
Population size. 482.5 million people live in the region. The maximum number is in Indonesia (193.8 million), the minimum is in Brunei (310 thousand). The number of inhabitants of the country is very contrasting.
demographic features. In Southeast Asia, natural population growth has always been high - an average of 2.2% per year, and in some cases - up to 40%. The child population (under 14) is 32%, the elderly - 4.5%. There are more women than men (50.3% and 49.7% respectively).
Racial composition. The vast majority of the population belongs to the transitional types between the Mongoloid and Australoid races.
In some areas, “pure” Australoid groups not mixed with the Mongoloids have survived: the Vedoids (Malacca Peninsula), the inhabitants of Eastern Indonesia close to the Papuans, the Negrito type (in the south of the Malay Peninsula and the Philippines).
Ethnic composition. Only in the largest country in the region, Indonesia, there are more than 150 nationalities. On the territory of the Philippines, which is small compared to Indonesia, there are up to a hundred peculiar Malayo-Polynesian ethnic groups. In Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, more than 2/3 of the inhabitants are represented by Siamese (or Thai), Viet, Khmer, Lao and Burmese. In Malaysia, up to half of the population are Malay peoples close in language. The most mixed and multilingual population of Singapore are people from neighboring Asian countries (Chinese - 76%, Malays - 15%, Indians - 6%). In all states, the Chinese are the largest national minority, and in Singapore they even represent the majority of the population.
The following language families are represented in the region: Sino-Tibetan (Chinese in Malaysia and Singapore, Burmese, Karen in Thailand); Thai (Siamese, Lao); Austro-Asiatic (Vietnamese, Khmers in Cambodia); Austronesian (Indonesians, Filipinos, Malays); Papuan peoples (in the eastern part of the Malay Archipelago and in the west of New Guinea).
Religious composition. The ethnic composition and the historical fate of the peoples of the region determined its religious mosaicity. The most common are the following confessions: Buddhism - in Vietnam (Mahayana - the most loyal form of Buddhism, coexists with local cults), in other Buddhist countries - Hinayana); Islam is practiced by almost 80% of the population of Indonesia, Malaysia, and partly in the Philippines; Christianity (Catholicism) is the main religion of the Philippines (a consequence of Spanish colonization), partly in Indonesia; Hinduism is especially pronounced on about. Balle in Indonesia.
Aborigines of the countries of Southeast Asia widely profess local cults.
The population is distributed extremely unevenly. The maximum density - on about. Java, where up to 65% of the population of all Indonesia lives. Most of the inhabitants of Indochina live in the valleys of the rivers Irrawaddy, Mekong, Menem, here the population density reaches 500-600 people / km2, and in some areas - up to 2000. The mountainous outskirts of the peninsular states and most small islands very sparsely populated average density population does not exceed 3-5 people/km2. And in the center of Kalimantan and in the west about. New Guinea has uninhabited territories.
The proportion of the rural population is high (almost 60%). In recent decades, due to the migration of rural residents and natural growth, the number of urban population has been increasing. Growing fast, first of all, big cities, almost all of them (with the exception of Hanoi and Bangkok) originated in the colonial era. More than 1/5 of the inhabitants live in cities (Laos - 22, Vietnam - 21, Cambodia - 21, Thailand - 20%, etc.), only in Singapore they make up 100%. In general, this is one of the least urbanized regions of the world.
Cities with millionaires, as a rule, are port or port centers, which were formed on the basis of trading activities. Urban agglomerations of the region: Jakarta (10.2 million people), Manila (9.6 million), Bangkok (7.0 million), Yangon (3.8 million), Ho Chi Minh City (former Saigon, 3.5 million), Singapore ( 3 million), Bandung (2.8 million), Surabaya (2.2 million), Hanoi (1.2 million), etc.
Labor resources. There are more than 200 million people, of which
53% are employed in agriculture, 16% in industry, others are involved in the service sector.
Southeast Asia is a multinational region with social contrasts. The rapid growth of cities led to the influx of unskilled labor into them, which resulted in the concentration of people, an increase in crime, drug smuggling, unemployment, etc. At the same time, since the 60s of the XX century. new business and shopping districts with modern buildings, skyscrapers built by American and Japanese companies are emerging in the countries of the region.
3. Agriculture
The agriculture of the region is insufficiently provided with land resources due to the high population density. Agriculture prevails over animal husbandry in it, manual work costs per unit of land area and low marketability of farms are large. Technique and technology are mostly very primitive.
ASIA
Foreign Asia is extraordinarily attractive: - diverse, exotic nature, - history with its numerous historical monuments, - ethno-confessional features of Asian peoples. It was in Asia that many centers of ancient civilizations were located.
In the territory overseas Asia tourist can meet many natural areas: from the equatorial forests of Indonesia
to the temperate deserts of northwestern China and Mongolia.
In different countries and regions, monuments dating back millennia:
Buddhist, - Jewish, - Muslim, - Christian and other cultures.
Asian countries are inhabited by representatives of the Mongoloid and Caucasoid races, speaking a wide variety of languages and dialects.
In Asia, there are the highest mountain systems in the world, and among them the Himalayas, where the highest peaks of the Earth are concentrated.
There are areas in Asia
Long and widespread tourism (Middle East, India),
Areas where the tourist boom has begun in recent years (countries of Southeast Asia).
The level of development of tourist infrastructure is also different.
Natural, historical, cultural, ethno-confessional attractiveness, developed tourist infrastructure form the tourist and recreational zones and regions of Asia.
Political conjuncture, acute conflicts in many Asian countries and regions repel tourists from Asian regions.
All this makes the tourist map of overseas Asia very colorful.
It can reveal five touristrecreational areas:
Southwest Asia- includes 4 macrodistricts:
1. Turkey and Cyprus,
2. Palestine (Israel),
3. Arab states(Middle East) - (Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Jordan, Yemen, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, UAE, Saudi Arabia),
4. Middle East (Iran and Afghanistan).
South Asia– includes 4 macrodistricts
1. India (the territory of India (outside the Himalayas) and Bangladesh),
2. Pakistan,
3. Himalayan (mountainous regions of India, Nepal and Bhutan),
4. Bangladesh and Island state(on the island of Ceylon) Sri Lanka.
Southeast Asia- includes 2 macrodistricts:
1. Continental (Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Malaysia - part of which lies on the islands),
2. Island (Indonesia and Philippines)
East Asia- is divided into 4 tourist macro-districts:
1. Japan,
2. Korean region (DPRK and the Republic of Korea),
3. Northeast and East China,
4. Southern China (with Taiwan)
central Asia- is divided into 3 macro-districts:
1. Western China,
3. Mongolia.
southwest asia
Includes the states of the Near and Middle East with ancient history and predominantly Muslim culture.
The exception is Israel- a country of immigration and widespread Judaism with its shrines.
City of Jerusalem - shrines of three religions: Judaism, Christianity, Islam
Attracts pilgrims,
Sets the stage for constant sharp conflicts
which also affects the scale of tourism.
In the countries of this zone, the attention of tourists is attracted by:
Warm sea (especially the Mediterranean, washing the coast
Turkey, Cyprus, Lebanon, Syria, Israel),
Favorable for recreation subtropical climate.
Ancient cities or their ruins,
Numerous cities with their historical and cultural heritage. Among them:
Istanbul, Turkey),
Amman (Jordan),
The ancient cities of Lebanon - Baalbek, Saida, as well as the organized tourist center of the country - its capital Beirut,
Nicosia (Cyprus),
Iranian cities of Tehran, Isfahan, Shirak, Hamadan.
Afghanistan is interesting for tourism opportunities, but the events of recent decades make it impossible to use them.
As part of Southwest Asia, tourist macrodistricts: Turkey and Cyprus, Palestine, Arab States (Middle East), Middle East.
1. Turkey and Cyprus They are connected both by their history and modern relations.
Republic Cyprus- an island nation in the eastern part mediterranean sea. Member of the European Union since May 1, 2004).
Officially, the territory of the Republic of Cyprus includes
98% of the island of Cyprus (the remaining 2% is occupied by British military bases),
As well as the nearby islands of Agios Georgios, Geronissos, Glukiotissa, Kila, Kiedes, Kordylia and Mazaki.
In reality, after 1974, the island was divided into three parts:
60% of the island's territory is controlled by the authorities of the Republic of Cyprus (populated mainly by Greeks),
38% - Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (populated mainly by Turks),
2% - British Armed Forces.
The TRNC is recognized as an independent state by the Republic of Abkhazia, the Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic (within Azerbaijan) and Turkey.
Muslim Cypriots live in the northern part of Cyprus,
Turkish speakers.
The rest of the island is predominantly Orthodox,
speaking Greek.
The division of Cyprus creates unnecessary tension.
Tourists-resorts have the opportunity
Enjoy the benefits of the Mediterranean
Favorable Mediterranean climate.
Visit low mountain areas
Take baths near mineral springs.
The tourism industry is one of the main items of national income. A significant part of the population is employed in tourism, the profit from tourism is the main source of foreign currency inflow to the budget of the republic. Over the past 4 years, the number of tourists in Cyprus has increased by 29%, and income from tourism - by 40%.
The largest resorts: - Larnaca, - Paphos, - Limassol, - Ayia Napa
Protaras, - Famagusta, - Kyrenia (under the control of the TRNC).
Many beaches in Cyprus have been awarded the Blue Flag of the European Union for environmental cleanliness and infrastructure.
City Nicosia (Levkosha) - the capital and largest city of Cyprus - in the center of the island, divided by the "green line" - the buffer zone m / d southern and northern Cyprus. In Nicosia, tourists inspect:
Selima Mosque, - Hagia Sophia, - 6-meter Venetian column,
The ruins of the fortress wall
Museum with objects of the Bronze Age and masterpieces of historical art;
The second largest city in Cyprus - sea port Limassol founded in Byzantine times. To the west of it is the British sovereign base of Akrotiri. Near Limosol - the tower of Colossia (the castle of the Order of Ionites - 1454 - one of the most famous castles in Cyprus - was the citadel of various knightly orders - first the Templars, then the Order of the Hospitallers, and from the XIV century the knights of the Order of Malta (Ioannites) settled here, the head of which is one time was the Russian emperor Paul I. The surroundings of the castle are beautiful plantations citrus fruits, and the fortress itself is famous primarily for its sugar factory).
The beaches of Limassol are covered with dark sand, predominantly of volcanic origin.
Resort Ayia Napa - the center of club life (along with Ibiza) is focused on young people.
For family holidays, Paphos and Protaras serve mainly.
The beaches of Ayia Napa and Protaras are characterized by white sand.
The coast of Paphos is mostly rocky.
City Pathos included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. Close to it is the bay of Aphrodite. According to legend, in this place the goddess of love and beauty was born from sea foam. The ruins of the temples of Aphrodite and Apollo have been preserved
Attractions Cyprus are a mixture of different eras:
The Byzantine castle of Kolossi, where Isaac Komnenos took refuge from the crusaders (Byzantine emperor of Cyprus in 1057-1059, son of Manuel Eroticus Komnenos, approximate emperor Basil II, until he was deposed by Richard I during the Third Crusade)
Church where Richard I the Lionheart married Princess Berengaria of Navarre
Venetian fortresses,
british left hand traffic,
The main attraction in the north of the island is the old walled city. Famagusta - co medieval tower Othello (It was in Famagusta that the main events of Shakespeare's tragedy "Othello" unfolded),
- "ghost town" (Varosha quarter before the Turkish invasion in 1974 was the main tourist center in Cyprus, and then became a "ghost town")
Geographical proximity to the row mediterranean countries allows to carry out for tourists sea cruises to Egypt, Israel, the island of Rhodes, Jordan. Cruise liners depart from the seaports of Larnaca and Limassol.
The local population traditionally adheres to Orthodox Christianity. There are many Orthodox churches on the island, Orthodox icons are for sale.
Among the attractions of Cyprus are Orthodox shrines, such as the tomb of St. Lazarus in Larnaca.
Turkey attracts tourists recreants:
Seaside areas (along the Mediterranean, Aegean, Marmara, Black Seas) are known for swimming seasons (warm sea, subtropical climate),
Famous Mediterranean resorts (Antalya, Alanya, etc.).
Resorts based on the use of mineral springs (ex. springs near the city of Bursa were used by the Byzantines).
Turkey attracts with its historical-culttour values.
Many of them are concentrated on the shores of the Bosphorus in the city of Istanbul (in the past - Constantinople, in ancient Russian documents - Tsargrad).
The transformation of the Orthodox Byzantine capital into a Muslim city led to a change in the appearance of the city:
Orthodox churches have turned into mosques (there are also many minarets).
The most famous temple is a work of Byzantine architecture Hagia Sophia
Museums, incl. archaeological (with the sarcophagus of Alexander the Great),
Monuments of civil architecture.
In the XX century. Istanbul has been largely Europeanized.
Other educational tourism centers in Turkey:
Capital Ankara (ancient buildings, the mausoleum of the founder of modern Turkey, Ataturk (Kemal Pasha);
- Izmir (which is famous for its antiquities and annual fairs);
- Bursa, Adan, Erzurum (with their ancient monuments and mosques).
There are many elements in the east of Turkey natural attraction:
Plateau and low mountains in the east of the country they move to high-mountainous regions with a well-defined altitudinal zonality (up to the nival zone),
Sacred for Armenians (but located after World War I on the territory of Turkey) Ararat massif, where Noah's Ark ended its journey
big and very picturesque lake Van
2. Palestine. This neighborhood includes:
The State of Israel, predominantly Jewish (indigenous and immigrant),
And the Arab territories, which for many decades have been fighting for the creation of an Arab Palestinian state.
The territory of Palestine is rich in historical events.
The first city in the world was discovered in the Jordan Valley - Jericho (“the city of dates”), whose age is seven thousand years. On a large hill, archaeological excavations are underway, which attract the attention of many tourists.
South of the largest city of Palestine, Jerusalem (Jerusalem), is the city of Bethlehem , over which, according to legend, a star lit up at the moment when Jesus Christ was born in a modest manger. A grandiose temple was built here.
Jera salem - a city of three confessions (Jewish, Christian, Muslim)
Historical and cultural monuments:
Jewish Wailing Wall
Christian shrines: - the chapel of the Holy Sepulcher,
Golgotha where Christ was crucified
The rock where he prayed
Many more places associated with evangelical stories
According to Islam, the Muslim prophet Mohammed later ascended to heaven from the rock where Christ prayed (the magnificent Mosque of Omar was built here).
It is no coincidence that during the division of Palestine after World War II, the UN issued a decision on the special status of Jerusalem, which is historically divided into the Old and New City.
Other cities in the region include:
The actual capital of Israel Tel Aviv (although the leadership of the state considers Jerusalem to be the capital, which is not recognized by most states of the world) with its:
Museum of Mediterranean Art "Haaretz"
Art gallery.
There are Korolenko, Zola and others streets.
- Jaffa , numbering several centuries of its existence. Here you can walk along the street: Pushkin, Pestalozzi, Michelangelo, Dante, M. Gorky
An even older city Haifa .
In these cities there are historical and cultural objects of previous centuries.
Resorts- marine
On the Mediterranean coast, especially in the area of Natanya and Eilat in the Arabian Gulf of the Red Sea.
On the coast of the Dead Sea with very high salinity
3. Arab countries. Includes the Middle East or most of Western Asia (Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Jordan, Yemen, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, UAE, Saudi Arabia). All of these are Muslim Arab states.
With the exception of Mediterranean Lebanon and partly Syria and Arabia, all countries are arid deserts and semi-deserts. Civilization developed only when irrigation systems were created at the expense of rivers (as in Mesopotamia) or groundwater, in oases.
From Ser. 20th century began to produce oil - a modern civilization is being formed
Modern seaside resorts appeared on the shores of the seas.
In the mountains of Lebanon - mountain resorts.
In all countries of the macroregion, many historical and cultural attractions - monuments of distant millennia and centuries
IN Lebanon - one of the earliest human settlements - Baalbek , where saved:
The ruins of religious buildings dedicated to Jupiter,
Statues, sculptures of Venus, Bacchus,
Rows of columns and sculptures, stairs.
The city of Saida is one of the ancient settlements in Lebanon.
The capital of country - Beirut, along with the old quarters, is distinguished by modern buildings, corresponding to the role of Beirut - the center of finance and culture.
IN Syria
The ancient cities of Palmyra and Aleppo with monuments of Hellenic art.
The capital of country Damascus attracts with objects of Muslim culture (ex. Omayyad Mosque - one of the most famous shrines of Islam)
IN Iraq
In his capital Baghdad
Nazimiya Mosque, or the Golden Mosque, decorated with four minarets with gilded domes
Many modern buildings stylized in the spirit of Muslim traditions.
Away from the capital, located on the banks of the Tigris River, are the ruins of ancient cities: incl. Babylon.
In the north and northeast of Iraq there are summer high mountain resorts.
Despite the tourist attractiveness of Lebanon, Syria and Iraq, the flow of tourists to these countries due to political neststrength limited.
Less interesting othersome Arab countries Middle East: Jordan, Yemen, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain - whose economy is based on oil production - are attracted by modern cities.
Saudi Arabia occupies a special place:
The main places of pilgrimage for Muslims are cities associated with the activities of the Prophet Muhammad and the birth of Islam - Mecca (with a black stone kaaba)
And Medina
Pilgrimage (Hajj) gives huge income to the country
The city of Jeddah, through which thousands of pilgrims go. There are several historical monuments here, incl. the grave of the first woman, Eve.
UAE
On the northeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula, at the junction of the Persian and Oman Gulfs, there is a small but cozy and modern state - the United United Arab Emirates- a fabulous Arab country
This is the charm of the exotic oriental fairy tale,
Western service standards
Country of Arab sheikhs,
Astounding skyscrapers,
The best hotels in the world
first class jewelry stores,
giant malls,
Unforgettable shopping (duty free zone),
White sands of endless beaches
Blooming gardens in the middle of the desert
Sun almost all year round
The bottomless blue of the warm Persian Gulf,
Impressive tour program.
4. Middle East countries - Iran and Afghanistan.
Iran - a country of very diverse nature and ancient history.
Seas and rivers, plains (low and elevated) and high Elburs mountains with Damavend peak (in the north), various forests, dry steppes, semi-deserts and deserts, healing mineral springs and therapeutic mud.
Monuments of Muslim culture (civil and religious buildings)
In the capital Tehran,
The cities of Isfahan, Tabriz, Mashhad, Qazvin and others.
Currently, due to the difficult international situation of Iran, the flow of tourists is limited. Both external forces and the activity of Islamic fundamentalists contribute to this.
IN Afghanistan - a multinational mountainous country where hostilities are taking place, tourism is impossible these days. Practically inaccessible for tourism:
The harsh but impressive nature of Afghanistan,
Historical and cultural sites in the capital Kabul, in the cities of Herat, Kandahar
One of the most famous tourist sites throughout Asia is Biamin (in this depression at an altitude of more than 2 thousand meters there is a rock dug up by hundreds of caves) -
In the rocks - two carved 50-meter statues of Buddha,
And on the hill is the fortress of Shahar-i-Gulgula
The possibilities of the winter resort of Jalalabad are unclaimed,
hunting opportunities,
observation of local ritual holidays.
IN last years I have succeeded in my quest to visit the entire planet. First of all, this affected the hot tropical countries of Southeast Asia. At the end of 2016, I visited all of them. Including tiny Brunei and unknown East Timor. Probably, now I can be considered an expert both in individual countries of Southeast Asia, and in the whole region as a whole. I have no illusions and understand that, firstly, it is impossible to fully see and know even your own yard in front of the house, not to mention the country. Secondly, the world does not stand still and the places you have been before can change. After all, Singapore has grown in 35 years "from the third world to the first." Yes, you are always changing...
I first visited Southeast Asia in 2010. Since then, every year I spend most of the time in this region. I often visit Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and, of course, the Philippines, where I have my own piece of the jungle and a house with a Russian bath. In some countries, I was only once, somewhere else I will definitely return, and in some places I don’t want to appear. In this review, I will try to describe all the countries of the region. Southeast Asia consists of: Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Brunei, East Timor. There are 11 countries in total.
Thailand
I believe that the Kingdom of Thailand is the best country in many respects for the first acquaintance with Southeast Asia. At the same time, Thailand is also suitable for many of my friends and acquaintances for a long stay. From here you can easily make "forays" to other neighboring countries. In Thailand:
— Lots of sea and sun, beaches and lagoons;
- A lot of historical and natural places interesting for tourists;
- Very good roads and well-established transport system;
— Excellent air communication with Russia and with most other countries;
- A lot of offers for accommodation. budget, exclusive long term. Anyone.
- Delicious and varied fruits.
- High level of security.
I myself have been to Thailand ten times. I traveled this country up and down and I plan to visit there many more times!
Vietnam
This country, with a slight lag behind Thailand, has a number of advantages. For example, there are more local tasty and cheap fruits, a peculiar interesting story, of course, a lot of places for tourism and, importantly, a more loyal migration policy.
I spent 4 months in Vietnam, mostly living in the village of Mui Ne near Ho Chi Minh City. I have visited all the main attractions in the country. Of the most memorable - the islands of Halong Bay, roadside dragon fruit ruins and target shooting from a Kalashnikov assault rifle in the area of the famous partisan tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City.
Singapore
A city-state with an incomprehensible history of formation and with one of the highest standards of living on the planet. Safe, comfortable, convenient. Although expensive. When possible, I try to spend two or three days in Singapore when I fly from one SEA country to another. Fortunately, up to 96 hours you can stay here without a visa.
Of course, in the first place I remember in Singapore amusement park"Universal"on the island of Sentosa, and the island itself is simply full of interesting places. Also Marina Sands promenadeand views from skyscrapers, the Ferris wheel, the park of the same Marina Sands. I like to settle in the Chinatown area, although you can somehow try to live in the thematic Indian quarter.
Malaysia
For me, Malaysia is not so much the sights that are lacking here, but the most delicious durians that I have ever tasted. They are not as cheap as in the Philippines and Indonesia, but they taste just divine. My favorite variety Musang King, although other varieties are worth trying. I recommend a visit to Malaysia to all lovers of the King of Fruits.
Of course, when I am in Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, I definitely visit the Petrones Towers area - the twins charge me with their cosmic energy. I also like to ride in the mountains - in the entertainment center Genting, where the most interesting for me is the funicular ride over tropical forest and slowly appearing in the clouds himself Genting with its attractions, restaurants, hotels and the only casino in all of Malaysia.
Indonesia
Probably the most interesting country in Southeast Asia for those who like to travel around uncharted places climb mountains and dive into original culture local population. You can “walk” around Indonesia for a very long time and one island will not look like another.
Special attention is worth mentioning the island of Bali, which did not leave indifferent anyone who has been there. I was impressed by this place, crowded with creative people - both expats and locals. I recommend visiting Bali to all my friends.
Philippines
This country certainly has a special place in my heart. I spent enough time to fall in love with Samal Island, where I bought land, built a house, and where I met a lot of people. interesting people. I have yet to visit the hyped resorts like El Nido and Boracay, but I already like it enough here to stay in the Philippines forever.
Mostly advanced travelers go to the Philippines. Those who want to enjoy the beauty of the local nature, chat with some of the most good-natured people on the planet and eat fresh juicy fruits.
Cambodia
At one time I traveled enough in Cambodia. I'll tell you exactly temple complex Angkor Watt is the #1 attraction in all of Southeast Asia for tourists and travelers to visit. This is something worth seeing for sure - like the pyramids in Giza or great wall in China. I myself have been to Angkor Watt several times and will definitely go there again.
The problem is that other places in Cambodia are generally not as good as neighboring countries. Resort Sihanoukville, the capital Phnom Penh and fruity Kampot - all this is a C grade with a minus. I do not recommend Cambodia for long stay. The best option is a trip from Thailand to Angkor Watt for 3-5 days. The rest of the places are not worth attention.
Myanmar
I have heard conflicting opinions about Myanmar from travelers who have been there. I myself have only positive memories. And stunning Pagan, and high-mountainous Inle Lake, metropolitan Yangon - all this is a must see!
Currently, as far as I understand, the country is not suitable for long-term residence of expats. Corruption is too developed, and the infrastructure, on the contrary, wants the best. But it’s definitely worth a month’s ride through the main attractions of Myanmar and talking with the Burmese (as for me, the most sympathetic people on the planet).
Laos
It is worth going to Laos for nature, nature and again nature. Despite the fact that the country has no access to the sea, it is rich in mountains, rivers and waterfalls. During my trip to Laos, there were no normal roads in the country, but exotic untouched nature only benefited from it. Add to this the freedom-loving spirit of the population, somewhat tougher than the southern neighbors, Buddhism, historical love for the Russians - you get a very good place for a trip for a month or even two.
Brunei
A small sultanate, a tiny state that at one time did not want to become part of Malaysia and remained independent, Brunei Darussalam is considered one of the most difficult available countries in Southeast Asia. To get to Brunei without a visa, I took a ticket from Kota Kinabalu to Kuala Lumpur with a change in Bandar Seri Begawan with an official carrier Royal Brunei . This gave me the opportunity to stay in the country for three days.
Brunei is clean, cozy and hot. But there isn't much to do there. I visited all the main sights of the capital on the first day of my stay. And since I did not plan to leave the city, on the second day I actually repeated the program of the previous day. Conclusion - Brunei is great for transit between insular and mainland Malaysia. No more.
East Timor
100% of my friends whom I told that I had been to East Timor did not know what it was and were surprised when they found out about the existence of a whole country under that name. Before the trip, I realized that there was not much to do in East Timor and planned only a couple of days for this place. But fate had its own way. In May 2016 in East Timor, I lost all my documents and things (including my camera). Left in the same swimming trunks in a country where there is not even a Russian representative office. I got a colossal incomparable experience there, found friends, a family of people who sheltered me and helped me get out of trouble. I am grateful to them for this. In the end, my long trip to East Timor gave me more than it took!
I'm going back to East Timor in about two or three years. There you can find good mountain trekking, hot springs, snorkeling and diving. And, of course, you can find good people in East Timor!
I love visiting new countries. They are attractive in their ignorance. But I am also happy to return to my favorite places on the planet. Therefore, my romance with Southeast Asia is not over, it will continue as long as I have the desire and opportunity to travel!
Southeast Asia (SEA) is a vast region of the world, where 11 sovereign states are located with an area of about 4.5 km2. It is, as it were, sandwiched between two ancient centers of civilization, demographic (and now economic!) giants - China and India. This circumstance somehow affected the processes of settlement, economic development, and the formation of the ethnic, religious and cultural image of the region.
By the way, the expression “between two giants” in the title is in essence a reflection of the toponym “Indochi-tai”. The region under consideration was destined to remain aloof from early civilizations, but later it was gradually drawn into their orbit. Migration routes from China and culture routes from India ran through Indochina.
Of course, Indonesia, the Philippines, and other countries are not Indo-China, but classic Southeast Asia (Figure 6.1). However, even in these countries, the cultural and economic influence of China and India is very tangible.
Geographical location and natural conditions
The region includes two parts: continental(Indochina peninsula) and island-smooth(numerous islands of the Malay Archipelago). Southeast Asia seems to "sew" the mainland of Eurasia and Australia and is the border of the basins of the Pacific and Indian oceans. The most important sea and air communications pass through the countries of the region. Strait of Malacca in terms of importance for maritime navigation, it is comparable to Gibraltar, the Suez and Panama Canals.
Key geographical position at the crossroads of the most important sea routes, diverse Natural resources, a fertile climate - all this, like a magnet, attracted Europeans here during the colonial period. (Only Thailand remained formally independent as a buffer zone between British India and French Indochina.)
Current geographic location countries of Southeast Asia are made up of the following factors:
Position between world economic and political centers — Western Europe, the USA, Japan, which determine the global development strategy and the main regional political trends;
The position between India and China, the world's largest states in terms of population, major economic and influential political powers;
The position between two oceans (Pacific and Indian), which makes it possible to control the strategically important straits connecting them - Malacca and Sunda.
The Strait of Malacca is located between the Peninsula of Malacca and about. Sumatra, his
length 937 km, minimum width about 15 km, fairway depth from 12 to
1514 m. A particularly intensive movement of ships and
ships.
The Sunda Strait is located between the islands of Sumatra and Java in Indonesia, its length is 130 km, the minimum width is 26 km, and the depth in the fairway is 28 m.
The peninsular part of Southeast Asia is dominated by mountain ranges that fan out across its territory, separated from each other by river valleys. The mountains are higher in the north and west than in the south and east. The mountains divide the mainland region of the region into several separate parts, land communications between which are difficult. All the islands of the Malay Archipelago also have a mountainous character. There are many volcanoes here, a number of which are active. (More than 80% of all recorded tsunamis are formed in the Pacific Ocean, including in Southeast Asia. The explanation for this is simple - out of 400 active volcanoes on Earth, 330 are located in the Pacific Ocean. More than 80% of all earthquakes are observed there .)
Only in the east of Sumatra and along the banks of Kalimanta-na are there relatively extensive low-lying spaces. Due to the abundance of heat and moisture, Southeast Asia as a whole is distinguished by the diversity and richness of the flora and fauna, soil fertility.
The climate of this region is hot, subequatorial and equatorial, with a total precipitation of up to 3,000 mm per year. Tropical cyclones are frequent guests here - typhoons, possessing great destructive power, not to mention the increased seismic danger that awaits the population of most countries. Although most of Southeast Asia is covered with humid tropical evergreen forests (hence the second place in the world after Brazil in terms of tropical timber reserves), savannahs dominate in inner Indochina. The river network is dense, rivers (Me-Kong, Salween, Irrawaddy etc.) - full-flowing.
Tsunami(from Japanese hieroglyphs - “go 7”, which means harbor, And "us"— a big wave) called giant waves arising on the surface of the ocean as a result of underwater earthquakes or eruptions of underwater and island volcanoes. In rare cases, a tsunami can also be caused by a fall into the World Ocean and space objects - meteorites, asteroids, etc. And although no historical evidence of such events, fortunately, has been recorded, scientists believe that the likelihood such a case not so small (according to some estimates - up to 1%). According to calculations, the fall of a relatively small asteroid 300-600 m into the ocean will generate a tsunami, far exceeding all hitherto known.
* The most famous and devastating in its consequences was the eruption of the Krakatoa volcano on about. Rakata in the Sunda Strait in 1883. As a result of its explosion, giant waves (up to 30 m high) formed on the sea, which rushed to the shores of Sumatra and Java, washing away everything in their path. Then up to 40 thousand people died and luxurious tropical vegetation disappeared everywhere. These waves circled the entire globe, reached Europe and caused floods in many places. Volcanic ash from Krakatoa was raised to a height of several tens of kilometers and also spread throughout the planet.
The strength (or magnitude) of the earthquake in Southeast Asia that caused the 2004 tsunami was about 9 on the Richter scale, which happens relatively rarely. A powerful break in the earth's crust, the total length of which was about 1300 km, occurred at the junction between three tectonic plates- Indian and Australian ("big shimi") and Burmese microplate. The epicenter of the earthquake was in the open sea, near Indonesia. The earthquake caused a sharp deformation of the ocean floor, as a result of which huge energy was released, equivalent to 200 million tons of trinitrotoluene (which is 4 times more powerful than the hydrogen bomb tested in the USSR).
A wave hump formed above the epicenter of the earthquake, which provoked the most powerful wave crests that reached Africa. The province of Aceh in Indonesia suffered more than others, where the wave reached 15–20 m and went 10–15 km deep into the island. Great destruction was struck by the elements on south coast Bay of Bengal, the east coast of Sri Lanka, a number of islands in Thailand (including the popular tourist island Phuket), and many small islands in the Indian Ocean simply went under water for a while.
This natural disaster not only resulted in the death of about 300 thousand people, but also destroyed entire nationalities. So, most likely, the nationality is completely destroyed ongy, lived in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and numbered only 100 people before the tsunami.
The significance of Southeast Asia is also determined by the presence here of large stocks of the most important species raw materials And fuel. The region is especially rich in non-ferrous metal ores: tin (in terms of its reserves, the region surpasses all countries of the world), nickel, copper, and molybdenum. Large reserves of iron and manganese ores, chromites. There are significant deposits of oil and natural gas, there is brown coal, uranium. natural wealth are valuable tree species of tropical and equatorial forests. On the whole, Southeast Asia is a hard-to-replace world source of many strategic resources.
Within the region, representatives of natural geography usually distinguish the following physical and geographical areas:
1) peninsula Indochina, forming the southeastern periphery of the mainland (Southeast Asia) and dissecting the basins of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. There are no latitudinal orographic barriers here, therefore, in the north of Indochina,
there is a “breathing” of continental air masses. The main mass of moisture is brought by the southwestern equatorial monsoons;
2) Malay Archipelago, associated with Indonesia and including the islands of Greater and Lesser Sunda, Moluccas and about. Ceram. The region is distinguished by its colossal natural specificity. Its equatorial and insular position conditions
the dominance within its limits of equatorial and marine tropical air, uniformity of temperatures, constantly high humidity and an abundance of precipitation. Kingdom of tropical rainforests;
3) Philippine Islands, sometimes included in the Malay Archipelago, but physically and geographically representing an independent region. It is located in the belt of subequatorial and partially equatorial climate with abundant rainfall.
Population
The peoples of Southeast Asia are characterized by a combination of Mongoloid and Australoid features (on this basis, they are sometimes referred to as South Asian minor race). The ethnic composition is extremely diverse - about 500 indigenous peoples, many people from China (huaqiao), but few Europeans.
In the most populous country in the region, Indonesia (slightly less than 50% of the population of Southeast Asia), Malay Peoples, in Thailand - Thai etc. For example, 75% of the total population of Thailand is formed by the Thai people (or Siamese) and the Lao people (Thai live mainly in southern half states, Lao - in the northern and northeastern, including plateaus); in Malaysia, Malays and Chinese make up almost equal parts of the local population, the remaining 10-11% are Indians; the bulk of the population of Singapore are Chinese (up to 80%).
Residents profess Islam, Buddhism, Christianity (Philippines), Hinduism, and most Chinese - Confucianism and Taoism. The highest population density is observed in regions with fertile and irrigated lands, as well as in port centers.
Political history of the region
The region of Southeast Asia (SEA) includes the Indochinese and Malay Peninsulas, as well as the Malay Archipelago, the largest archipelago in the world*. Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand and Myanmar are located on the Indochinese Peninsula. Malacca is occupied by Malaysia and Singapore. Indonesia, Brunei, East Timor and the Philippines are located on the Malay Archipelago (Table 6.1).
In the past, Southeast Asia was called the Back or Far Indies, as well as Indo-China. last name reflected not so much the natural resemblance of this part of the continent to India in the west, and to China in the east, as transitional ethnocultural state of the region. The earliest was the Indian penetration into Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, the Indian "civilizers" did not colonize the region. They brought here their learned language (Sanskrit), writing and literature, methods of political and social life (elements of the caste system), techniques of their art. Under Indian influence, various states of Southeast Asia were formed.
* The Malay Archipelago accounts for more than a third of the total area of all the islands of the globe. Some of the islands of the archipelago (for example, Su-matra) are larger than many European states. In total, more than three states such as France can fit within the archipelago. There is reason to believe that in remote geological epochs, the Malay Archipelago was a wide isthmus connecting Asia with Australia. Gradually, it turned into remote groups of islands, which, in the expression E. Reclus, are like piles of a collapsed bridge.
The formation of the political map of the region took place in difficult historical conditions. The first colonizers who invaded Southeast Asia were immigrants from Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands. The first country enslaved by Europeans was Indonesia, which became the Dutch colony "Netherlands Indies" at the beginning of the 17th century. The activities of the colonialists at that time abounded with "unsurpassed pictures of betrayal, bribery, murder and meanness" *. Later, the British, French, and Americans invaded the region.
Formally, the number of colonies did not include Thailand, which retained the status independent state due to the confrontation between Great Britain and France (and with the support of Russia). During the Second World War, all Southeast Asian countries were occupied by Japan.
After the war, the states of the region achieved sovereignty. In 1984, the British protectorate of Brunei gained independence, in 2002 East Timor was proclaimed independent, becoming the 192nd sovereign state in the world.
The political situation in the region is largely determined by the diversity of the national, religious and social composition of the population. characteristic feature Southeast Asia is the presence in it of a multimillion-strong group of people of Chinese nationality (the so-called huaqiao).
The main social support of modern state regimes in the countries of Southeast Asia is the growing national bourgeoisie. The domestic and foreign policy of states, as a rule, is aimed at creating favorable conditions for accelerated capitalist modernization. The process of political and economic integration is actively taking place in the region. At the same time, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is the most mature grouping of this nature among the peripheral countries.
The peculiarity of countries
It is usually said about the countries of Southeast Asia that epochs and styles are mixed here, Europe, America and Asia meet here, luxury and poverty coexist. At the same time, each country in the region has its own unique characteristics. So, modern industrial Thailand (the old name Siam - hence: Siamese twins, Siamese cats, etc.) with its 27 thousand Buddhist temples, with the fantastic buildings of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and countless "spirit houses" (amazing monuments of "small architecture") is not at all like largest country the region under consideration is Indonesia, where there are no pagodas, since the population professes Islam.
Lagging behind in its development, agrarian Laos bears little resemblance to Singapore - the "economic tiger", an oasis of economic well-being and prosperity, one of the world's largest financial centers; and the predominantly Christian country of the Philippines, striving to develop knowledge-intensive industries, is strikingly different from Laos, a state of Buddhist culture, where agriculture completely determines its economic “face”. The Sultanate of Brunei, which has become "rich" on petrodollars, is somewhat "private".
Historical and geographical circumstances had a significant impact on the current development of the states of the region. So, the geographical position of Singapore was one of the most important factors of its advanced, in comparison with neighboring territories, development. Since ancient times, Singapore has acquired the reputation of a major trade and distribution center in southern Asia, serving the foreign trade relations of India and China, European countries and Indonesia. Initially, Singapore served as a transshipment point, and then, with the expansion of world trade, the creation of a plantation (in particular, rubber) economy and the development of the tin industry in Malaya, Indonesia and other countries of Southeast Asia, Singapore became a major world market for tin and rubber .
For a very long time, the countries of Southeast Asia existed in the consciousness of the Soviet people as a kind of stronghold of social backwardness. However, at the turn of the XIX-XX centuries. some of them (Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore) have become so-called new industrial countries ("Asian tigers" or "little dragons"). At the same time, 80% of the exports of the mentioned countries are products of the manufacturing industry (offshore drilling platforms, video recorders, air conditioners, electronic components, magnetic disks, toys, etc.).
The rapid rise of these countries is the result of choosing the right long-term economic strategy, the ability to absorb scientific and technological achievements and create their own areas of excellence in the main areas of international exchange. We should also not forget about the cheapness of local labor and the performing discipline and diligence inherent in the population of the East. In recent years, the countries of the region have been increasing oil production (Indonesia, Brunei, Malaysia). The most economically backward are Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.
The historical attraction of Thailand (Siam) to the commonwealth with Russia has old roots. Eshe at the end of the 19th century. King Rama IV of Siam visited Russia and skillfully used its influence in Europe to get rid of colonial enslavement by powerful France and England. In recognition of the merits of Russia to his homeland, the king introduced a Russian uniform in his army (the full dress uniform - a white tunic with aiguillettes - is Russian to this day). The music for the royal anthem was written by the Russian composer P.A. Shurovsky.
The basis of agriculture in the countries of Southeast Asia is subtropical agriculture, which is completely dominated by rice(in the Philippines up to 90% of all cultivated land, in Indonesia - more than half). The region has long been famous for growing spices (red and black pepper, ginger, vanilla, cloves). Natural rubber is produced (Malaysia, thanks to plantations hevea), coconut oil, copra and abaca or manila hemp (Philippines), tea, coffee, cinchona bark (Indonesia), etc. The weak level of development of animal husbandry is partly offset by river and sea fisheries.
A significant part of the best land and irrigation systems belongs to large owners (often foreigners). Modern agricultural technology and scientific methods of farming are used only on large plantations. Despite the fact that the agricultural sector employs the bulk of the economically active population, there is a shortage of food in many countries of the region.
A fast growing industry is industry. The development of minerals stands out: tin (almost 60% of global production), tungsten, chromium, nickel, and copper. A prominent place is given to oil production *. Developed is the processing of valuable wood. Other industries are being created.
Russia and countries of Southeast Asia
About the dynamism of the countries of the Asia-Pacific region, which includes a huge triangle - from the Russian Far East and Korea in the northeast to Australia in the south and Pakistan in the west, is well known. We are talking about the real socio-economic progress of a whole group of once backward states that have achieved tremendous success thanks to a carefully thought-out economic strategy and internal discipline. Many of them are clothed in a single fabric of economic, humanitarian and other ties.
South East Asia - Pretty major region planet, within which 600 million people live. Today there are 11 list of which is given below, they differ significantly from each other in terms of level and models economic development. These differences will be discussed in our article.
Countries of Southeast Asia: list and capitals
The Southeast Asia region covers an area of five million square kilometers. From the name itself it is clear that it is located in the southeastern part of Asia. Part this region geographers usually include 11 states. Six of them are located on the continent, and five more - on the islands and archipelagos adjacent to the mainland.
So, all the countries of Southeast Asia (list):
- Vietnam.
- Cambodia.
- Laos.
- Myanmar.
- Thailand.
- Malaysia.
- Indonesia.
- Philippines.
- Singapore.
- Brunei.
- East Timor.
It is worth noting that geographically Southeast Asia also includes the eastern parts of India and Bangladesh.
Southeast Asia: cultural and economic-geographical characteristics of the region
At least 600 million people live in this region, 35% of which are residents of one country, Indonesia. It is here that (the most densely populated on the planet) is located. There are quite a lot of migrants from China in the region. They mainly settle in Malaysia, the Philippines and
The indigenous peoples of this region are very diverse. Malays, Thais, Vietnamese, Burmese, Javanese and dozens of smaller nations live within Southeast Asia. The most popular religions here are Islam and Buddhism, Protestantism is widespread in some areas.
The formation of local culture was significantly influenced by Chinese, Indian, Arabic, and Spanish cultures. The cult of tea and the habit of eating with chopsticks are very common in Southeast Asia. Music, architecture, painting differ very little in each of the ethnic groups of the region.
The economy of many states of Southeast Asia is strongly tied to agriculture, industry and the service sector are gradually developing. IN individual countries region an important sector National economy tourism has become (this is primarily Thailand, Singapore, Cambodia).
Developing countries of Southeast Asia: list
A developing country is a rather relative concept. By it is meant a state whose performance is significantly lower than that of the rest of the world.
According to the generally accepted classification, all 11 states of Southeast Asia should be classified as developing countries. However, among them there are three countries with a weaker level of development. They are also called These include:
- Laos.
- Cambodia.
- Myanmar.
The richest and most developed state in the region is considered to be Brunei, which is often referred to as the "Islamic Disneyland". The reason for this well-being is simple - solid oil and gas reserves. The country has long been in the top ten in terms of income of the population. It is curious that every second person who works at the industrial enterprises of Brunei came here from neighboring, less prosperous countries.
NIS countries in the region
New (abbreviated as NIS) is understood as a group of states that have experienced a significant leap in development and have significantly improved all their economic and social indicators in a very short time (only a few decades).
The countries of this group demonstrate amazing rates (up to 5-8% per year), generate powerful transnational corporations, actively introduce the latest technologies, allocate a lot of attention and funds to the development of science and education. Which states of the region can be attributed to the NIS group?
So, the newly industrialized countries of Southeast Asia (list):
- Singapore.
- Malaysia.
- Thailand.
- Indonesia.
- Philippines.
In addition, another country in the region, Vietnam, has quite real prospects for adding to this list.
Finally...
The countries of Southeast Asia, the list of which is given in this article, belong to the developing states of weak and medium development. Their economies are still heavily dependent on agriculture.
Most the developed countries region - Singapore and Brunei, and the poorest - Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar.
