Bangkok to Hanoi Itinerary

Travel to Thailand and take a longtail boat ride along Bangkok's khlongs. Why not gaze up at the famous reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, indulge in a relaxing Thai massage or stroll through the lush gardens of the Grand Palace in free time.

Discover sweeping views of Chiang Mai from atop Doi Suthep. Make like a local and devour a bowl of khao soi noodles at the Night Bazaar.

Travel through the changing terrain of rural Thailand to the Laos border. Mingle with local villagers before catching a first glimpse of the mighty Mekong River.

Take a slow boat down the Mekong River, soaking up the laidback river lifestyle of Laos. Stay overnight in tranquil Pak Beng.

See hundreds of Buddhas carved into the limestone cliffs at the Pak Ou caves before arriving in Luang Prabang. Enjoy the quaint colonial atmosphere, delve into local history at the Royal Palace Museum and swim in the turquoise waters of Kuang Si falls.

Call in at Laos' famous backpacker hangout of Vang Vieng. Admire the stunning limestone karst scenery or venture further afield on a mountain bike.

Explore laidback Vientiane and pay a visit to the inspiring COPE prosthetic limb centre. At days end, head to the riverbank to savour a Mekong sunset with a cold Beerlao in hand.

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

Cross into northern Vietnam and browse the Old Quarter for traditional artefacts and gastronomic delights - or perhaps explore Hanoi on a cyclo tour.