Something Excellent To Do Near Chiang Rai And Something Not So Excellent
If you go to this wonderful part of Thailand, you should spend an hour or two at the Baandam House art estate. Whether you go to see the long-necked tribal ladies is up to you.
South East Asia
South East Asia is a region of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet fast-changing cities and quiet islands sit just offshore from buzzing streets. Our South East Asia travel stories explore countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, and beyond, focusing on local culture, everyday moments, and meaningful travel experiences. Expect practical insights, reflective travel writing, and journeys shaped more by curiosity than schedules.
A Ride on the Death Railway
Take the five-hour trip on the train that follows part of the route of the Second World War Thailand-Burma route. See some great scenery and spare a thought for those who built it.
Day 2 in Sangkhla Buri -Three Pagodas Pass and Underwater Temples
Blundering passport-less through police checkpoints, I gazed into Myanmar through the historic Three Pagodas Pass. Then I solved the mystery (to me at least) of the underwater temples.
Day 1 in Sangkhla Buri – The Three Bridges
This town, in western Thailand, is where cultures meet. An evening stroll across the bridge brings insight and amusement.
Cashew Farming in Cambodia: Lives Shaped by Land and History
I spent a day with a family who grow cashews and other crops in tough conditions in southern Cambodia. Their story is worth telling.
Bia Hoi – Drink Like a Local in Vietnam
Pull up a plastic stool, grab a bowl of peanuts, and shout “Mot-Hai-Ba-Dzo!” Bia hoi — northern Vietnam’s beloved “fresh beer” — is cheap, cheerful, and best shared with locals before it goes flat at sundown.
Climb the Highest Peak in Singapore!
Sherpas and bottled oxygen are entirely optional on this less than arduous trek to the summit.
Taking The Slow Train Around Yangon
This four hour train trip is a great way to get a feel for how the locals live. Make friends and learn a few words of the language along the way.
Peanut Farming in Cambodia: Insight into Village Life
I spent a day stripping peanuts from stalks in a Cambodian village. And learnt a lot about how hard life can be, and how people can rise above the hardships.
Low Season on Koh Lanta
This island in the Andaman Sea has a casual atmosphere and an interesting history. Avoid the crowds by coming in July or August.