The Best Long Trips to Take in 2024

Southeast Asia is a classic long stay destination, and this two-week Rail Trip ensures plenty of time is spent in bustling cities as well as luscious jungles. The trip will start in Bangkok, before we hop on the train to explore the ancient ruins of Sukhothai and the street food delights of Chiang Mai. We’ll head out to the tropical forests of Northern Thailand to visit an ethical sanctuary to feed and bathe elephants, go bamboo rafting on Wang River and spend a night barbecuing and glamping in the jungle. Across the Laos border, via Chiang Khong, we’ll start by swapping trains for a river cruise down the Mekong River. We’ll stop in remote villages, meet whisky-making locals and discover a sacred cave system. Next up is the most famous sight in Laos, as we hike to the ethereal Kuang Si Falls. Back on the tracks, we’ll take the high-speed train to Vang Vieng, a favourite destination among adventurous travellers, where you’ll be able to explore Nam Song River by kayak. We’ll cross back over to Thailand to take the sleeper train back into Bangkok, where we’ll have one last full day in the Thai capital, starting with a guided tour from our local expert.