Kevin’s Southeast Asian Escape
Vietnam and Thailand had been sitting on Kevin’s bucket list for many years and 2025 was the time to make a trip happen – and it was certainly worth the wait.
“Starting out in Hoi An, the trip began with exploring the city’s historic quarters before I enjoyed an evening of seriously incredible food and made a lantern to take home. One of my absolute favourite days was spent farming and fishing in Tra Nhieu Village. It doesn’t get more authentic, learning from and working alongside the people that actually live this life, then sharing a meal together. It totally wasn’t part of the itinerary, but I even got the chance to have a go in one of the basket boats – I spun around as fast as I could, to many hoots and cheers from the riverbank.”
“We journeyed on towards Hue via the super scenic Hai Van Pass (there were plenty of stops for photos) where I was treated to a boat ride down the Perfume River and lantern-making class. Throughout the entire trip, the guides were really in-tune with my interests. We explored the Imperial City and heard about fascinating pre-western history, watched bronze-makers in action and even met a Princess from the House of Nguyen. I’m a huge fan of the monk and poet, Thich Nhat Hanh, and it was pretty epic to visit the very place where he got his start.”
“It was onwards to Hanoi, where I was whisked around the city on a vespa food tour. I really got to see all the city has to offer, from museums to pagodas to water puppet shows. One of my absolute favourite moments was meeting war veteran, Nguyen Hong My, where we heard all about his life, and stories of forgiveness and healing.”
“Next, Thailand beckoned and we kicked things off in Chiang Mai where I joined a Lanna family for a unique and very tasty cooking experience. I also got to visit an elephant sanctuary, where elephants who have been used commercially for generations are sent to live out their days in peace. I spent time with two elephants and their keepers, wandering through the forest and bathing them – of course, I got royally splashed too.”
“My adventure came to an end in Bangkok, where I stayed at the Riva Surya in a fantastic location for walking around the city. I went on one of the best food tours of the trip, all Michelin-starred and delicious. Every outing was tailored just for me, whether it was visiting a floating market or finding a basketball court, where I joined locals in a game.”
If you fancy doing something similar or crafting your own trip entirely, get in touch and get started on planning your Southeast Asian adventure.
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