Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos

Our trip commenced in the vibrant capital of Vietnam, Hanoi. Amidst the chaotic streets and ancient architecture, we visited Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum and various temples including the One Pillar Pagoda, Quan Thanh and the Temple of literature. Negotiating the roads to cross them as a pedestrian, does take a bit of practice and courage...but overall, Vietnam offers a very friendly and comfortable experience. For a day trip from Hanoi, a 3 hour coach transfer took us to the scenic Halong Bay... and a cruise through the iconic limestone karsts emerging from the emerald waters. We explored hidden caves, enjoyed fresh seafood, and took in surreal beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stunning!

Heading south, we discovered the imperial city of Hue, exploring its historic citadel and ancient temples. Nearby in Hoi-An, the charming UNESCO-listed town, we wandered through narrow streets adorned with lanterns, experiencing its unique blend of history and modernity. Evening time there, brings out even more lights, with a myriad of candles floating on the Thu Bon river. We also took a long, circuitous 11 mile walk whilst there to An Bang beach on the coast of the South China Sea...a great day out.

We then travelled to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, visiting the famous Post office and the War Remnants Museum there, very sobering. An excursion to the the Cu Chi Tunnels, 30 miles north of Ho Chi Minh City offered a poignant glimpse into the Vietnam War. Exploring the intricate tunnel system, we gained insights into the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people.

Following this, we then headed south to Can Tho before heading further north to the border of Vietnam and Cambodia at Chau Doc. Chau Doc to Phnom Penh via the Mekong River was a rather nice way to enter Cambodia, a 70 mile journey. We arrived during the annual water festival, in which main roads were closed and pedestrians had the freedom of the streets in a carnival atmosphere.

In Phnom Penh, we confronted the harrowing history of the Khmer Rouge regime at the Tuol Sleng Museum and one of Killing Fields. These poignant sites served as a stark reminder of Cambodia's resilience and hope for the future.

A road trip, via Skuon or Spiderville as it is nicknamed, followed. Fried Tarantulas are abundant here if your palate desires it. Our destination, being the city of Siem Reap, where the majestic Angkor Wat and other Khmer temples awaited. Exploring these ancient wonders over the next couple of days, was truly special. Angkor was the capital city of the Khmer Empire, and was once the largest city in the world. Angkor Wat is a temple within the complex, it is magnificent, and was the highlight of the trip. Bayon, Banteay Srei and Ta Prohm Temples visited also...all so different, but equally breathtaking.

Our final destination, Luang Prabang in Laos, has a tranquil riverside setting. Amidst the city's French colonial architecture, we strolled through vibrant markets, visited sacred temples including Phousi Hill, Wat Mai and Wat Xieng Thong. The milky blue waters of the Kuang Si Waterfalls was a nice excursion....and next door to these falls is a sanctuary for rescued Asian Black bears.

On our final full day , took a 15 mile trip along the Mekong river to Pak Ou Caves, the two primary caves within the limestone cliffs are teeming with thousands of buddha statues of all shapes and sizes. This location was a place of worship for several centuries.

In summary all of the countries, although neighbouring, were very different. All are so friendly and provide head-turning vistas along the way...Cambodia and the Angkor temples will bring me back to the region..