Bangkok to Hanoi

Itinerary

Days 1-2 Bangkok

A longtail boat ride along the city's khlongs reveals why Bangkok was once known as the Venice of the East. Witness the enormous reclining Buddha at Wat Pho. In free time, why not indulge in a relaxing Thai massage?

Day 3 Chiang Mai

Discover sweeping city views from the temple atop Doi Suthep. Make like a local and slurp down a bowl of kao soi noodles at the night bazaar.

Day 4 Chiang Khong

Travel through rural Thailand to the Laos border. Mingle with Mien and White H'mong villagers and catch a first glimpse of the mighty Mekong.

Day 5 Mekong River

Take a slow boat down the Mekong, soaking up the laidback river lifestyle of Laos. Stay overnight in tranquil Pak Beng and see the hundreds of Buddhas carved into the limestone cliffs at the Pak Ou caves.

Days 6-8 Luang Prabang

Enjoy the quaint colonial atmosphere, delve into local history at the Traditional Arts Museum and swim in the turquoise waters of nearby Kuang Si Falls.

Days 9-11 Vang Vieng/Vientiane

Call in at the backpacker hangout of Vang Vieng to admire the stunning limestone karst scenery or wander through the local market. Explore laidback Vientiane and head to the riverbank to savour a Mekong sunset with a cold Beerlao in hand.

Day 12 Lak Sao

Revel in a striking montage of mountain, forest and karst scenery en route to Lak Sao.

Days 13-15 Hanoi

Browse the Old Quarter for traditional artefacts and gastronomic delights, see a water puppet show or explore the backstreets by cyclo.