Trip details

As Laos' erstwhile royal capital, Luang Prabang has an epic, 1,500-year-long history and its streets are dotted with intriguing architecture and dozens of gilded wats. Wake before dawn to witness the ancient and humbling ritual as monks collect their daily alms. As is the case with most of Laos, nature is never far away. Let the fresh air fill your lungs on treks or bicycle rides into the mountains and forests, idyllic kayaking trips along the Nam Ou River or a full-blown cruise down the Mekong, or swim in the turquoise pools of Kuang Si Waterfall. Before you leave, learn all about the art of silk weaving, peruse the night market and watch the sunset over a Beerlao.

Sitting pretty on the banks of the Mekong River, Champasak is a nature-lover's dream. Set out on a boat trip round the 4,000 Islands archipelago to spy incredible numbers of birdlife, tiny villages, ancient ruins and a collection of beautiful beaches. Or meander down the Mekong on a kayak with your eyes peeled for endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. Bank on land, Champasak town was once an independent royal capital, which is reflected in the ornate architecture. One of its greatest sights is the Wat Phou ruins, which are believed to have been a blueprint for Angkor Wat. Get to know the local customs with a visit to bamboo basket makers, silk weavers and nearby markets overflowing with handicrafts.

When you arrive in Siem Reap, there's no doubt there'll be one thing on your mind: Angkor Wat. A symbol of Cambodia and true feat of ancient architecture, it is the figurehead of the Angkor Park, which is the largest religious complex in the world and houses thousands of temples. Surrounded by acres of jungle - which envelopes some temples completely - you can explore on foot, bicycle and tuk tuk. Highlights include the bygone royal Khmer city of Angkor Tom, the ruins of Ta Phrom, the finely-carved smiling faces at Bayon Temple and miniaturised Banteay Srei, which is adorned with thousands of female deities carved from red sandstone. To make the most of your visit, a multi-day pass is preferable and a guided tour offers a far more in-depth experience. Get there before sunrise for the ultimate, crowd-free views! Spend a little time in the Siem Reap where you can enjoy a cooking class and browse the glowing night markets.

While Kep is the hub of Cambodia's south coast and a visit to its famous Crab Market is a must, head left or right for some of the most beautiful beaches in Asia. You could spend the day sunning and swimming, or meander over to a nearby island for a spot of snorkelling and kayaking. Then again, you might prefer to enjoy hikes into Kep National Park, explore the caves at the Secret Lake or tootle through the countryside on a bicycle - perhaps enjoy a tour at a local pepper farm.