Six Weeks in Southeast Asia

Backpackers have been flocking to Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos for years thanks to the incredible scenery and fascinating local culture.

Many of the major attractions of the region fall fairly conveniently on a well-trodden circuit, which allows you to see the highlights without wasting time on long journeys. This sample loop runs from Bangkok to Hanoi.

From the Thai capital, head to the famous party island of Ko Pha Ngan for the iconic Full Moon Party celebrations. For more beach time, carry on south to Krabi and loop back up to Bangkok via Phuket.

Apsara Dancers with Mahabharata Carvings © Kelvintt | Dreamstime

From here, it’s time to head down to Cambodia to visit the amazing temples of Angkor Wat near the city of Siem Reap. Take a couple of days to enjoy the nearby sights, including silk farms and a landmine museum.

Next head to Krong Battambang, a charming city with a great culinary scene. Visit the nearby bamboo railway and soak up the friendly atmosphere before moving on to Phnom Penh.

The Cambodian capital is a bustling city crammed with restaurants, bars and some interesting French colonial architecture. Be sure to take a trip out to the Killing Fields to remember the murderous regime of Pol Pot and get a sense of the history of the country.

Thien Hau Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh City © Huynh Thu | Dreamstime

From here, cross into Vietnam to visit the old Vietcong fighting tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, before heading north on the Reunification Railway to Hanoi, stopping off at Hoi An and Hue on the way.

After a couple of days in the city, head to the spectacular Halong Bay for a few days of beach relaxation before making your trip home.