Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts

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Enjoy a day trip to check out Erawan Falls in Thailand's Kanchanaburi Province

1 Week in Thailand & Cambodia - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With one week to experience Thailand and Cambodia, you can check out the must-sees of Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Siem Reap on a highlights trip or swap in Phuket for a few days of rejuvenating beach time. Nature enthusiasts should include excursions to Doi Inthanon National Park and Kulen Mountain to their itinerary, while history buffs set aside time to ponder World War II history in Kanchanaburi and foodies hop between floating markets and street vendors.

Explore vineyards and olive oil estates on this journey through Iberian culture and cuisine

Luxury Journey Through Portugal & Spain: Culture, Countryside & Gastronomy - 10 Days

Discover the cultural and gastronomic highlights of Portugal and Spain on this luxury 10-day trip. You'll take private tours of UNESCO-listed landmarks, from Sintra's hilltop castles to Seville's Alcázar, and a stay at Granada's Alhambra fortress. Culinary adventures include wine tasting in Portugal's rural Alentejo region, an Iberian ham experience, and touring a historic Andalusian olive oil estate. Along the way, stay in historic hotels, gorge on tapas, and witness traditional flamenco performances.

In five days you can experience island living in Bocas del Toro

5 Days in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Five days in Panama is a great amount of time to discover the highlights of Panama City and visit one of the country's many idyllic islands. First-time travelers seeking a culture-focused tour will find Portobelo the perfect spot to delve into the country's culture, while those eager to minimize travel time stay on Taboga Island. If time well away from civilization tops your list, opt for a three-night catamaran sailing excursion around the San Blas Islands or head to the rainforest-covered Isla Bastimentos.

Enjoy luxury stays at off-the-beaten-path retreats (photo courtesy of Casa do Rio Wine Hotel)

Off-the-Beaten-Path Luxury in Portugal: Douro Valley, Alentejo & Comporta - 10 Days

Discover Portugal's lesser-visited treasures on this luxury 10-day self-drive tour. Begin by road-tripping to a remote corner of the Douro Valley to taste fine wines and uncover the region's prehistoric rock art. Next, continue to rural Alentejo for stargazing in Alqueva Dark Sky Reserve and a hot-air balloon ride over the UNESCO-listed town of Évora. The trip ends in peaceful Comporta on the Atlantic coast, where you'll sail the Arrábida Marine Reserve and ride horses along the rugged coastline.

Sip port wine along Porto's historic riverfront

Luxury Portugal Flavors & Culture Tour - 10 Days

Savor the best of Portuguese luxury, gastronomy, and culture with this 10-day trip. You'll explore the country's rich cuisine and heritage, going deeper with tasting tours, a premium port wine cellar experience, a day trip to the Douro Valley, and multiple Michelin-starred dining experiences. Best of all, as you eat your way across Lisbon, Porto, Évora, and Cascais, you'll stay exclusively in lavish 5-star hotels, including historic palaces and forts that add an element of culture to your adventure.

Explore the coves and grottoes of the Algarve by kayak and private catamaran

Luxury Adventure in Portugal: Lisbon, Lagos & Évora- 10 Days

Experience the laid-back luxury of Portugal with this 10-day trip that takes you from Lisbon to the coast and countryside. Start in the capital, where you'll explore the city with private e-bike and Segway tours. Take a day trip to mystical Sintra, then venture south to the Algarve to sail through the stunning Benagil Caves and paddle around Ponta da Piedade. Finally, head inland to Évora and cap off the adventure with a hike along an ancient Roman aqueduct.

Admire the beachfront views from your private infinity pool (photo courtesy of Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas)

10 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in Costa Rica is an excellent amount of time to discover the country's pristine landscapes while staying in luxury accommodations and indulging. Enjoy the freedom a rental car provides on a road trip adventure stretching from Poás to Manuel Antonio, or take the trail less traveled on a journey featuring the Pacific coast's national parks. Alternatively, consider an activity-filled itinerary featuring Tortuguero, Arenal, and Papagayo, or delight in a bird-watching trip through the country's premier ecolodges.

Explore the famous palm forests, hidden coves, and endless beaches on Siargao

Philippines Highlights Tour: From Manila to Siargao - 7 Days

Spend a week discovering the best of the Philippines with this city and island-focused itinerary. Begin in the capital with a street food tasting, a tour of Old Manila, and a trip to the modern Makati. After an excursion to the towering stratovolcano of Taal, you'll hop over to the island paradise of Siargao for surfing and swimming. Explore waterfalls and caves in the interior, then take a boat trip around the surrounding islands to discover more sandy beaches, diverse marine life, and swaying palm forests.

Visit the Chocolate Hills of Bohol Island on this rural Philippines tour

Countryside Adventures in the Philippines: Cebu City, Moalboal & Bohol Island - 7 Days

The Philippines has beautiful rural landscapes, and with a week to spare, you can see some of the country's greatest natural sights. You'll start off with an urban adventure in the big city of Cebu before making your way to the scenic coastal resort of Moalboal and the island of Bohol, meeting tarsiers, diving down to coral reefs, and touring the stunning Chocolate Hills. It's the perfect choice for nature-loving adventurers.

Enjoy the pristine wilderness of the El Nido islands

Philippines Island Adventure: Manila & El Nido - 7 Days

The Philippines is made up of over 7,000 islands, and with this seven-day tour, you'll get to see some of the most beautiful examples around the El Nido region. Hop across Bacuit Bay to discover white-sand beaches, colorful coral reefs, secret waterfalls, and more. You'll also have a couple of days to explore the Philippines' lively capital of Manila, enjoying a full, deep dive into Filipino culture and nature in just one week.

Boat across the sparkling blue waters of Laguna Bacalar and take note of ancient life forms like these stromatolites

2 Weeks in the Yucatán - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in the Yucatán, you can hop between the peninsula's lush landscapes and ancient ruins on a fast-paced highlights tour or hire a rental car and zip between cenotes, colonial cities, and white-sand beaches on an ultimate road trip. Travelers looking to discover a bit of mainland Mexico can include San Cristóbal and Palenque in their itinerary. At the same time, beach lovers can dedicate half their trip to the pristine shorelines and waters of Cozumel and Playa del Carmen.

Visit the many historic sites of Manila and Cebu on this engaging and educational heritage adventure

Historical Tour of the Philippines: Manila & Cebu City - 7 Days

If you're interested in Filipino history and culture, this is the tour for you. Spend a full week diving into the country's past with expert-led heritage tours of two major cities, Manila and Cebu. You'll visit cathedrals and shrines, explore museums, and walk along centuries-old walls, as well as get time to see the Philippines' natural side with a mountain hike and whale shark swimming experience.

Take in the sights of Inverness, gateway to the Scottish Highlands

Scotland Culture Tour: Edinburgh, Inverness, Fort William & Glasgow - 6 Days

Unearth the essence of Scotland with this six-day culture-packed adventure. Start in Edinburgh with a musical Old Town tour, then drive to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, exploring Stirling, the Bannockburn Battlefield, and Dalwhinnie Distillery en route. Witness a compelling sheepdog demonstration, explore historic Cawdor Castle, cruise Loch Ness, and tour Urquhart Castle. Pop into Fort William, then finally reach Glasgow for a food tour and night with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra.

Take a bamboo raft through Lod Cave, Thailand

10 Days in Thailand & Cambodia - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Thanks to the ease of flights, you can visit 3-5 destinations in Thailand and Cambodia in 10 days. First-timers can tour iconic sites, such as Angkor Wat and Bangkok's Grand Palace, while those eager to go farther afield will enjoy a Lod Cave excursion and a Chansar ox-cart tour. History buffs will appreciate visiting Choeung Ek Memorial in Phnom Penh and Kanchanaburi's World War II spots. Food-focused travelers can sample Siem Reap's street food and perfect their skills in a Chiang Mai cooking class.

Dive alongside gentle whale sharks off Oslob

Diving & Snorkeling in the Philippines: Moalboal & Oslob - 7 Days

Tropical marine life, pristine beaches, and serene waterfalls await you on this weeklong aquatic adventure in the Philippines. Based between the coastal towns of Moalboal and Oslob, you'll embark on an adventurous itinerary of private snorkeling and diving excursions. Plunge into the clear waters of uninhabited islands, discover vibrant coral reefs, and swim among an abundance of colorful fish species—including gentle whale sharks and the famous sardine run.

Check out the massive Luxor Temple during your Egypt adventure

Cairo, Hurghada, Aswan & Luxor: Best Itinerary Ideas

Nine to 11 days is the most popular trip length for Egypt travelers interested in visiting Cairo, Hurghada, Aswan, and Luxor, especially when also including Bahariya. If you're not interested in Bahariya, 10 to 12 days is enough for your Cairo, Hurghada, Aswan, and Luxor trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as eight or nine days. Check out our favorite Cairo, Hurghada, Aswan, and Luxor trips below.

Delve deep into traditional Balinese culture and artisan traditions

Balinese Cultural Escape - 7 Days

Dive into the culture and art of Bali with this weeklong itinerary full of hands-on experiences and off-the-beaten-path excursions. Based in the cultural capital of Ubud, you'll cook Balinese dishes alongside a local chef, learn about Indigenous funeral practices in a remote village, and participate in a purification ritual at a mountainside temple. Browse colorful wares at the Ubud Art Market, see a sunset legong dance performance, and hop over to a nearby island to tour a local seaweed farm.

See lesser frequented destinations and checkout the Cathedral of Saint Mary in Burgos

10 Days in Spain & Italy - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Spain and Italy, you can check out each country's iconic landmarks and idyllic countrysides on a highlights tour or focus on the picturesque coastlines of the Costa Brava and the Amalfi Coast during a sun-kissed adventure. Foodies will find Naples, Rome, and San Sebastián the perfect places to visit, while active explorers delight in a three-day hike in the Italian Dolomites. Or, for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, grab a rental car and tour lesser-visited villages.

See local temples and water palaces as you learn about the spiritual and cultural traditions of Bali

Balinese Wildlife, Culture & Adventure in Ubud - 5 Days

Base yourself in Bali's cultural capital for this quick and adventurous Indonesian getaway. Surrounded by rainforest and rice terraces, Ubud is the perfect jumping-off point for five days of cycling through iconic landscapes, visiting monkeys at a sacred sanctuary, and snorkeling in the waters around the island. Swim with elephants at a jungle river, take in a traditional dance performance at Ubud Palace, and shop 'til you drop at several of Ubud's famous artisan markets.

Start your trip in Cairo and take a tour of the Pyramids

Cairo, Aswan & Luxor: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor spend about seven to nine days in Egypt, which usually includes some time in Edfu, Hurghada, Kom Ombo, or Esna, as well. If you're not interested in extending your itinerary, the same timeframe is enough for your Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as four to six days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, and beyond.

Explore the UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya Historical Park while in Kanchanaburi

Bangkok & Kanchanaburi: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Thailand typically plan a trip for 12 to 14 days when combining both Bangkok and Kanchanaburi with Chiang Mai and Phuket. If you're not interested in Chiang Mai and Phuket, five to seven days is enough for your Bangkok and Kanchanaburi trip. Read on for the best itineraries, including Bangkok and Kanchanaburi and beyond.

Discover Vietnam and Cambodia in a week and explore Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's capital

1 Week in Vietnam & Cambodia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With a week split between Vietnam and Cambodia, you can base yourself in Hanoi and Siem Reap and explore the cities' nearby natural and historical wonders on a highlights tour. Or, immerse yourself in the local way of life during a trip centered around a four-day Mekong River Cruise. Travelers looking for a mix of city, history, and nature tours will find Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap ideal bases, while those looking for some beach time should include Da Nang in their itinerary.

Scotland Highlands & Islands Road Trip - 8 Days

This immersive eight-day Scotland journey combines city exploration, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Your self-drive odyssey commences with a street art tour of Glasgow before you switch gears to Oban for a wildlife expedition and traditional Scottish ceilidh evening. Then taste whisky on the Isle of Skye and journey to the Outer Hebrides to see the mystical Callanish Standing Stones. Finally, visit beautiful Inverness and hike up Ben Vrackie near Pitlochry.

Scenery along the Scotland NC500 near Durness

Scotland North Coast 500 Road Trip - 8 Days

Tick off Scotland's greatest road trip—the NC500—with this epic eight-day self-drive itinerary. You'll drive the full loop, soaking up pristine white beaches, wild Highlands landscapes, incredible castles, and a dram or two of whisky. Touch the northernmost tip of mainland Great Britain, learn about the Jacobite uprising, and embark on an intrepid wildlife safari as you explore Scotland's wilder side.

A view of the Hagia Sophia in İstanbul and the Golden Horn of Turkey

Turkey's Top Landmarks Tour: Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale & Istanbul - 11 Days

Embark on a remarkable Turkish adventure that takes you from the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia to the vibrant streets of Istanbul in 11 days. Along the way, you'll explore underground cities and archaeological wonders at Kaymakli and Ephesus, savor the flavors of Turkish cuisine, and unwind in the thermal waters of Pamukkale. This journey promises a captivating blend of natural wonders, cultural treasures, and culinary delights.

Check off some of the richest sites in antiquity, like the Greco-Roman ruins of Pergamon

Turkey's Greco-Roman Wonders: Istanbul to Antalya - 11 Days

This 11-day adventure takes you from Istanbul all the way down to the Aegean Sea. Explore iconic sites like the Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar, then, set out on a guided road trip through Turkey's Greco-Roman marvels, from the ancient ruins of Troy to the Celsus Library in Ephesus and the Roman theater in Aspendos. Sip wines at a local vineyard, warm up with Turkish coffee, and relax in Pamukkale's hot springs before ending your trip in the coastal city of Antalya.

Kayak, sail, and dive off Turkey's Turquoise Coast

Ancient Wonders & Adventure on Turkey's Turquoise Coast - 11 Days

Dive into the beauty and history of Aegean Turkey on this adventurous 11-day itinerary. After a day of sightseeing in Istanbul, fly to Izmir to kick off an epic journey down the famed Turquoise Coast. Go wine tasting in local vineyards, stroll among the ruins of Ephesus, cruise to hidden caves and golden beaches, and kayak over submerged Lycian cities as you make your way south to Antalya. The truly intrepid can even opt for scuba diving and paragliding excursions en route.

Try different Turkish dishes, like dolma or pide

Turkish Food & Culture Tour - 11 Days

Discover the culture and cuisine of three distinct Turkish regions with this 11-day food-focused tour. It starts in Istanbul, hopping between the city's European and Asian sides as you sample street food and dine at world-renowned restaurants. Fly deep into Central Anatolia to learn to cook local dishes amid the windswept valleys and fantastical rock formations of Cappadocia, then it's off to the Aegean coast for ancient ruins, bustling fish markets, natural hot springs, and mountain villages.

Visit the Temple of Khnum in Esna while sailing along the Nile River

Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, Esna & Kom Ombo: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, eight to 10 days is the perfect amount of time for an Egypt trip, with stops in Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, Esna, and Kom Ombo. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as six or seven days. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—our favorite itinerary extension is Sharm el-Sheikh. Keep reading for more inspiring itineraries.

Start your trip in Cairo and explore the world-class Egyptian Museum

Cairo, Aswan, Luxor & Edfu: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, seven to nine days is the perfect amount of time for an Egypt trip with stops in Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, and Edfu. It's also possible to hit the highlights in five or six days if you don't mind a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—our favorite itinerary extension includes Hurghada. See more ideas for Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, and Edfu itineraries below.

Cycle between rural villages in Mai Chau, Vietnam

Authentic Adventures in Vietnam & Cambodia - 14 Days

Spend two weeks experiencing the authentic side of Vietnam and Cambodia that few tourists get to see. Zip along Hanoi's historic streets on a Vespa, followed by a trip south to cycle between the rural villages of Mai Chau and boat through the soaring karst landscapes of Ninh Binh. After a relaxing cruise on romantic Ha Long Bay and an adventure down the Mekong River, you'll fly to Cambodia to visit floating villages and the 10th-century Khmer temples of Angkor.

Ascend Mount Fansipan, Vietnam's highest mountain, via cable car

Off the Beaten Path in Vietnam & Cambodia - 14 Days

This two-week journey through Vietnam and Cambodia celebrates these nations' deep cultural heritage, with a focus on authentic experiences and outdoor adventures. Discover Vietnam's capital of Hanoi, then venture into the countryside to the rivers and rice paddies of Ninh Binh and Sapa. After touring ethnic villages and cruising the otherworldly landscapes of Ha Long Bay, you're off to Cambodia to marvel at the Khmer towers of Angkor.

The modern city of Da Nang is the gateway to Vietnam's central coast

Treasures of Vietnam & Cambodia - 14 Days

Uncover thousands of years of Southeast Asian culture as you explore the ancient ruins and natural wonders of Vietnam and Cambodia. This indelible two-week journey begins with city tours in Vietnam's capital of Hanoi and a hunt for the best street food around. After a cruise amid the karst towers of Ha Long Bay, you'll transfer to the historic river city of Hoi An and the mountains of Da Nang before ending up at Cambodia's legendary Angkor Wat temple.

Sunset over the UNESCO-listed waterscapes of Ha Long Bay

Essential Vietnam & Cambodia: Hanoi to Siem Reap - 14 Days

Vietnam and Cambodia abound with natural beauty, historical landmarks, and rich culture—luckily, you have two weeks to experience the best of it. This grand expedition commences with city and street-food tours in Hanoi, Vietnam's high-energy capital. Then, head south to Hue's Imperial City and the ancient river town of Hoi An before exploring the Mekong River and finishing up in Cambodia, where Khmer temples await.

Explore Hoi An's colorful and character-filled Ancient Quarter

Vietnam & Cambodia Culture Escape - 14 Days

Immerse yourself in the land, sea, and history of two of Southeast Asia's most captivating nations over 14 memorable days. It begins in Vietnam's capital amid landmarks from past dynasties and continues to the soaring limestone towers of Ha Long Bay. Explore Vietnam's countryside, ancient river cities, and the famed Mekong River, then hop over to Cambodia for the grand conclusion at Angkor Wat.

A trip to Tuscany wouldn't be complete without a visit to Florence

1 Week in Tuscany - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

One week is enough time to experience three destinations in Tuscany. Art and architecture enthusiasts will appreciate Siena's medieval towers and Florence's piazzas and galleries. Aspiring chefs will enjoy making pasta in Lucca, and wine lovers can sample reds in the Chianti Hills, Sassicaia in Bolgheri, and white wines in the Cinque Terre. Active travelers can cycle the Eroica route or hike through Radda's vineyards and the Val d'Orcia—visiting historic sites and tasting Tuscan fare along the way.

See Hokitika's famous Pancake Rocks on the west coast of New Zealand

New Zealand South Island Road Trip & Melbourne - 10 Days

Discover the natural wonders of New Zealand and Australia on this 10-day road trip. Start with scenic drives across New Zealand's South Island, stopping to marvel at pancake rocks and tour glittering glowworm caves. You'll take a heli-hike on Franz Josef Glacier and sail the UNESCO-listed Milford Sound / Piopiotahi before jetting to Australia. Here, adventures include touring the iconic Great Ocean Road to admire its dramatic sea stacks and soaring over Melbourne in a hot-air balloon.

Savor new season olive oil and produce fresh from your host's orchard in Andrano

10 Days in Italy - 5 Food & Wine Itinerary Ideas

Thanks to the ease of train travel, you can indulge in food and wine in 3-4 regions of Italy in 10 days. Aspiring chefs can perfect their skills in a pasta-making workshop in Andrano and a pizza masterclass in Naples, while wine lovers can take a tasting tour in Tuscany and sample Prosecco on a sommelier-guided trip to Treviso. Archaeology enthusiasts will appreciate a VIP tour of Rome's Coliseum and a hike among the archaeological wonders of Matera, and art fans will enjoy the galleries (and gelato!) in Florence.

Seek out Siargao, the "Surf Capital of the Philippines"

Discover Siargao: Surf Capital of the Philippines - 5 Days

Start with snorkeling in turquoise lagoons and end with surfing lessons from a pro on this five-day escape to Siargao. Known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines," you'll get the chance to practice your skills at one of the world's most renowned surf spots while also island hopping with a cocktail in hand, visiting deserted islands, napping in hammocks in the palms, and diving into rock pools along the Pacific Ocean.

Explore Coron's coast and craggy islands by outrigger

Philippines Island Escape: Snorkeling & Beaches in Coron - 5 Days

Discover Coron's plentiful lagoons, beaches, and jungles on this five-day tour in the Philippines' Calamian archipelago. After a day experiencing Filipino city life and its historic Spanish remnants in Cebu City, it's off to the far-flung shores of Coron for a quick but action-packed itinerary of snorkeling, oceanside picnics, and outrigger canoe rides. Explore underwater cities of colorful coral and their equally vibrant inhabitants, as well as long-forgotten shipwrecks, the last vestiges of World War II.

Ferry between some of the most beautiful islands around Bali, Indonesia

Indonesia Island-Hopping Adventure: Bali, Lombok & Gili Islands - 7 Days

Clear your calendar for a week and escape to the white-sand beaches and turquoise waters of some of Indonesia's most heavenly islands. Start on Bali to surf the famous swells near Seminyak and hop between the three main Gili Islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. Swim beneath waterfalls and witness artisan demonstrations at traditional villages on Lombok, then head to the "Secret Gilis" to snorkel through an underwater paradise of colorful fish, shipwrecks, and sea turtles.

Visit some of Bali's loveliest hidden waterfalls, tucked throughout the island's interior

Discover Bali's Waterfalls: Munduk, Pumeteran & Sanur - 7 Days

Bali is renowned for its dramatic waterfalls, and you'll discover some of the best on this off-the-beaten-path tour from coast to coast. Swim in the pool below Aling Aling, trek to the hidden Umejero, and stop at Leke Leke on your way from Pumuteran to Sanur. Chasing waterfalls isn't the only activity on this seven-day itinerary—you'll also hop on boat cruises, snorkel around Menjangan Island, and cycle through UNESCO-listed rice terraces.

See cheeky macaques and ancient temple ruins in the Sangeh Monkey Forest in Ubud

Bali Unveiled: Culture, Temples & Beaches in Ubud & Sanur - 7 Days

Discover Bali's rich contrasts on this seven-day adventure that includes traditional dances, a Balinese cooking class, and soaking in hot springs. Start in Ubud to explore holy temples, trek up the mighty volcano of Mount Batur, and immerse yourself in local life among the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, then head south to Sanur for a day of surf and sand on the beautiful beaches of the Bukit Peninsula.

Settle into the peaceful 5-star surroundings of Lourenço do Barrocal (photo courtesy Lourenço do Barrocal)

Off-the-Beaten-Path Luxury in Portugal: Alentejo & Comporta - 7 Days

Step off Portugal's well-trodden tourist path with this luxury, weeklong road trip. Drive from Lisbon to the unspoiled Alentejo region, where you'll soar over the ancient city of Évora in a hot-air balloon, stargaze in Alqueva Dark Sky Reserve, and explore the region's wineries and cork forests by private Jeep. The road trip continues to Comporta on the sparkling Atlantic coast for a boat trip in Arrábida Marine Reserve and horseback riding along deserted, white-sand beaches.

Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Khao Lak: Best Itinerary Ideas

Ten to 11 days is a great length for a Thailand trip, with stops in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Khao Lak. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in nine days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some of our favorite itinerary extensions include Kanchanaburi. Get inspired with our Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Khao Lak trip ideas below.

Visit some of the 300 temples in Chiang Mai like the Wat Chedi Luang

Chiang Mai: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Thailand typically plan a trip for nine to 12 days when combining Chiang Mai with Bangkok and Phuket. If you're only headed to Chiang Mai, you can enjoy a comfortably paced trip in five to seven days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Chiang Mai and beyond.

Okinawa's "shisa" statues are said to guard and protect the islands

Japan Cityscapes, Culture & Beaches Tour - 14 Days

See the wonders of Japan on this whirlwind two-week trip that takes in cities, mountains, beaches, and beyond. Start in energetic Tokyo to explore the otherworldly Odaiba district and learn to make a traditional Japanese meal, then it's off to Hakone for hot springs and sky-high views over Mount Fuji from a panoramic ropeway. See mysterious geishas in Kyoto's Gion district, enjoy a tea ceremony in Osaka, and end with the white-sand beaches, blue waters, and plentiful marine life of Okinawa.

See the history and culture of Japan with immersive tours of Osaka and more

Traditions of Japan: History, Art & Culture - 14 Days

This immersive 14-day cultural adventure starts in Osaka, where you'll sample renowned cuisine and stroll through ancient shrines. Take a day trip to Kobe for its coveted beef, then it's off to Mount Koya for quiet hikes and an overnight in a Buddhist temple. Eat your way through bustling Nishiki Market in Kyoto, learn Japanese arts and crafts in Kanazawa, see sweeping views of Mount Fuji, and end with the bright lights of Tokyo, touring the gardens of the Imperial Palace and Senso-ji temple.

Take in the views of majestic Mount Fuji with an overnight hike

Active Adventures in Japan: Mountains, Hot Springs & Temples - 14 Days

This exciting two-week tour of Japan starts in Tokyo, where you'll eat your way through local markets on a foodie tour and see some of the city's most iconic sights. Then, it's off to the wonders of Mount Fuji and an overnight on the Yoshida trail. Bike the streets of Takayama, walk through hallowed shrines and hike to majestic Zen temples in Kyoto, and shop till you drop in Osaka. Soak in the hot springs of Hongu's Otogawa River, then end on the Pacific coastlines of Kii Katsuura and the towering Nachi Falls.

Tuck into delicious Japanese noodles on a foodie tour throughout Japan

Foodie Tour Across Japan - 14 Days

Explore the culture, history, and delicious flavors of Japanese cuisine with this 14-day culinary adventure. You'll start in Osaka, touring the lively Dotonbori district for grilled crab, takoyaki, and taiyaki pastries. Eat your way through Kuromon Market and travel to Kobe for their coveted beef, then it's off to Kyoto for tea ceremonies and sake. Learn to make ramen noodles in Tokyo, enjoy beer tastings in Sapporo, and end in Hakodate, where you'll take an early morning market tour and try delectable donburi.

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