My recent journey through Southeast Asia with Intrepid Travel was nothing short of unforgettable. Packed with culture, nature, and thrilling adventures, my trip offered the perfect blend of exploration and connection with local communities. From Thailand’s jungle-clad mountains to Vietnam’s emerald bays, here’s how my incredible adventure unfolded.
First stop……Thailand: Temples, Waterfalls and Whitewater Thrills
My adventure began in Thailand, just outside Chiang Mai. The first stop was an ethical elephant sanctuary, where I spent time learning about the animals in a responsible and respectful setting. From there, I headed to the famous Bua Thong “Sticky” Waterfalls, where limestone-coated rocks allowed visitors to climb safely up rushing cascades.
Returning back to Chiang Mai, I wandered through buzzing streets and discovered hidden corners of the city before finishing the day with a well-earned dinner at a local restaurant.
The following morning began with a trip up the winding mountain road to the majestic Doi Suthep temple complex. After conquering the iconic Naga-guarded staircase, I was rewarded with breathtaking views over the city and one of Thailand’s most stunning temples.
Later that day, the pace picked up as I hopped on a bike and explored Chiang Mai from a new perspective. Cycling through busy streets, quiet rice paddies and local neighbourhoods, I stopped at Wat Suan Dok to see relics from the Lanna Dynasty, then continued on to the peaceful forest temple of Wat Umong. A visit to a local art gallery and the beautifully landscaped Royal Park Ratchapruek rounded out the day.
On my final day in Chiang Mai, I headed north into the hill tribe region. After a forest hike to the serene Huay Sathan Waterfall, I enjoyed a little downtime at a river camp before gearing up for the main event — white-water rafting on the Mae Taeng River. With its 14 dramatic gorges and powerful grade 3–5 rapids, it was two hours of pure adrenaline and one of the highlights of my trip.
I then took a short flight from Chiang Mai to Hanoi where I met my fellow intrepid travellers
Vietnam: Culture, Treks and Coastal Escapes
From Thailand, I continued on to Hanoi, Vietnam, before travelling by private minibus to the small village of Lam Thuong. This community-based tourism project aims to empower local ethnic minorities, we quickly felt the warmth of village life. We explored traditional Tay homes, trekked through jungle trails to hidden waterfalls, and finished the day with a home-cooked feast prepared by our gracious hosts. That night, we stayed in a stilt house overlooking the valley — a truly immersive experience.
Our Vietnam adventure continued with an early departure to Sapa, the starting point for a breathtaking two-day trek. Passing through Hoang Lien State Park, we hiked across mountainside trails, crossed bubbling streams and wandered through remote villages surrounded by terraced rice fields. Despite heavy rain, the trek became even more memorable, with misty landscapes and a cosy homestay in Ta Van to end the day.
After trekking to Su Pan, we welcomed the chance to rest our feet on the bus back to Sapa, before continuing on to Hanoi. Once there, we set out to hunt down the city’s best rooftop bars and must-try eateries. The next morning was reserved for sightseeing, including visits to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and Museum, followed by the ancient Temple of Literature — Hanoi’s oldest university and a tribute to Confucius. A cycle ride through the chaotic streets of the capital provided one last jolt of adrenaline and an experience I will never forget. It was totally amazing.
We then swapped the city for countryside as we cycled into the Mai Chau Valley. Along the way, we stopped at scenic viewpoints. In Pom Coong village, our hosts shared stories of daily life over a home-cooked lunch. That evening, we relaxed with a cold drink, watching the sun dip behind the mountains.
The journey continued as we cycled through stunning landscapes toward Ninh Binh, known for its towering karst formations and lush paddy fields. From there, we travelled on to Hai Phong and caught a ferry to Cat Ba Island.
Nestled on the edge of UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, Cat Ba Island and nearby Lan Ha Bay offered turquoise waters, white-sand beaches and dramatic limestone cliffs. We explored the calm bay by boat and kayak, gliding through quiet coves and around tree-covered karsts. With fewer tourists than Ha Long Bay itself, the serenity was a welcome change. For two nights, we stayed in an eco-lodge, soaking up the natural beauty before returning to Hanoi.
One Last Goodbye
My Southeast Asian adventure ended where it began in Vietnam — the bustling streets of Hanoi. With memories of jungle hikes, river rapids, village life and coastal sunsets and even a water puppet show. I returned home with a heart full of stories and a camera full of unforgettable moments.
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