Vang Vieng is the world home of tubing (pronounced "tube-ing"). This is the act of floating down a river in the inner-tubing of a tractor tyre. Except in this town, they do it slightly differently; every 50metres or so down the river, a bar will chuck you a rope and pull you in for some drinks and free Lao Lao (rice-whiskey). Then, after a few drinks you can go on a rope swing and fling yourself out into the river. It is also the home of the "Frien...

After arriving in Luang Prabang the previous day, Matt, Ian and I checked out the city properly on Monday 12th May. It proved to be everything we could have hoped for. This city is regarded as the "main" city in Laos, and very much a travellers hub, and the first destination for people entering the country from Thailand. The city is famous for it's night-markets, whose gleaming lights and busy feel made the central road to the city shine. This "mai...

After a tiresome journey from Koh Tao to Bangkok, Matt, Ian and I wanted nothing more than to find a nice, comfy bed each to crash out in. After a taxi ride to Khaosan Road, we found just this. For 2.50pounds each a night, we got our own bed and air-con. Unfortunately this room had its fair share of bugs, and no windows, but apart from that it was perfect. Khaosan Road is the travellers' hub in Bangkok. The street is lined with market stalls, neon lights and abov...

Koh Phangan, a travellers beacon. Now then, I wonder why? We arrived not knowing quite what to expect. At 6:30am we checked into our guesthouse, which was at the very top of the island. It was a very friendly place, with many hammocks, long roped swings (see picture) and a good family-run feel. On 19th April we chilled out and I caught 2 hours sleep. Then came the 20th! Our day was spent snorkelling the fringing reef, a world of many colours and shapes. We also...

At 11pm on Friday 11th April, three smelly, unkempt teenagers with backpacks and a guitar pulled up to the 5* JW Marriot Resort in Phuket, Thailand. They were greeted by several beautiful female employees who gave them ice-cold drinks and flower necklaces, before checking them in and escorting them (with the porter in tow) to their two-bed, two-bath luxury apartment. Now you may be wondering if this was my imagination going into overdrive, or if I had been smok...