Day 1 HanoiIf arriving in advance, why not hire a cyclo and discover Hanoi's unique blend of beautiful lakes, shaded boulevards and spirited marketplaces. Day 2 VinhThere's time for some last minute shopping before making tracks to the border town of Vinh. Days 3-4 VientianeSlow down on a walking tour of sleepy Vientiane, where the morning market stays open all day and riverside paths are packed with children, dogs and chickens. Visit the inspiring COPE centre, an Intrepid Foundation-supported prosthetics service, and admire the intricate detail on Wat Si Saket, Laos' oldest temple. Days 5-7 Vang ViengExplore limestone caves, sample some fried bats or just take it easy in Vang Vieng. Days 8-10 Luang PrabangAs the jewel in Laos' crown, Luang Prabang is bursting at the seams with temples. Perhaps climb to the top of Phu Si at sunset for magical views. Day 11 Mekong RiverUnwind on a slow boat up the Mekong River, enjoying idyllic rural scenes along the way. Day 12 Chiang KhongCruise further down the Mekong and cross the Thai border. Overnight in Chiang Khong, which is an important market town for the surrounding region. Days 13-14 Chiang MaiMystical yet modern, Thailand's Chiang Mai is a charming place to spend a few days. There are plenty of activities on offer including cycling, rock climbing, a meditation class or indulgent spa treatments. Days 15-17 Hilltribe TrekEmbark on a trekking adventure through the rural villages of northern hilltribes. Meet smiling locals in distinctive traditional dress and sleep in bamboo huts. Back in Chiang Mai, there is free time for more sightseeing before taking an overnight train to the capital. Day 18 Chiang MaiCelebrate the end of the adventure with the best of Thailand's shopping in Bangkok, a relaxing massage or a feast of pad thai. Day 19 BangkokThe adventure comes full circle in Bangkok but why not stay a bit longer. Floating markets, Chinatown, temples and street stalls - Bangkok has it all.
|