More than any other cultures in Southeast Asia, the Peranakan heritage fully embodies the essence of the region. Peranakan people are often referred in Malaysia and Singapore as Straits Chinese why communities call themselves Baba and Nyonya (Baba for men and Nyonya for women) including the ones living in the South of Thailand. In Phuket for example, local Peranakan people call themselves “Phuket Babas”. Peranakan people developed a peculiar culture particularly reflected in objects of the daily life, ornaments and fashion with their bright colours. Shades of green, turquoise mix with bright pink or yellow colours mixed with strings of gold.

The Mekong River is one of the most important river in Asia and particularly in Southeast Asia as it goes through five countries of the region – Myanmar, Thailand, Lao PDR, Cambodia and Vietnam. As connectivity between all the countries bordering the Mekong River improves almost on a monthly basis, it is then more convenient than ever to explore the historical treasures of this river who shaped former Indochina. Classical European architecture in Mekong cites blend marvelously today with traditional temples and local wooden houses while sleepy villages continue to carry this indolent easy way of live characterizing life along the Mekong River. The Mekong has also been a major element of life to one of the world’s architectural marvel, the fabled ci of Angkor Wat.

Teak wood brought prosperity mainly to Myanmar, Northern Thailand and Laos. Today, magnificent mansions and temples as well as preserved forests testify of this wealth. Teak is recognised as a most valuable premium wood due to its texture, colour and durability. The wood has effectively a c colour varying between the gold and a reddish brown, a delicate pattern and above all an extreme resilience. Many experts consider teak wood as one of the most extraordinary wood in the world. Teak is only indigenous to four countries which are India and in Southeast Asia in Laos, Myanmar and Thailand. Teak wood forests are then unique to ASEAN.

ASEAN EXCEPTIONAL URBAN HERITAGE : 10 CITIES UNDER ZOOM