I left behind the hustle of Bangkok to head north to arrive in Chiang Mai at daft o'clock in the morning. The main destination for backpackers appeared to be Julie's hostel, which I had the foresight to book in advance. This is the only hostel I have seen where backpackers are prepared to wait until the reception opens in the hope that there might be a bed. Normally, you would tootle off and find somewhere else but not in Chaing Mai! Chiang Mai is a beautiful ...

We left the paradise of the beach behind and headed back to the madness that is Bangkok. First stop was finding some accomodation near to Khao San Road, the famous backpacker area. If Dubai is the introduction to the Middle East, then Bangkok is the introduction to South East Asia. Most signs were written in Thai and English, everyone could speak English and there were recognisable shops such as Tesco's, Boots and for the first time since Hong Kong - a McDonalds...

Leaving the delights of Luang Prabang, I had a mission set to get to Bangkok by 8am on 10th June to meet Elaine again. The journey involved an overnight stay (including a bucket party once more) in Vang Vieng, before a bus and overnight train to Bangkok. My first impressions of Thailand were of pure delight. Passing through passport control on Freedom Bridge, the first policeman I saw actually smiled at me and told me voluntarily where my train to Bangkok would ...

Leaving the madness of Vang Vieng behind, I headed north to Luang Prabang. A long bus journey took me through the mountains on very winding roads- enough to rival the 'Snake Pass' at least. The scenery was amazing and I spent the 6 hours in awe at the splendor of the sight. Even when the mist closed in and visibility greatly reduced it was still worth the long journey. We went through villages, where all houses are made from planted straw and palm leaves. We drov...

If there is only one thing you hear being talked about in regards to Laos, it is probably Vang Vieng and tubing- so it was with some excitement that I headed on the journey north. I had sent Paddy up ahead to sort out accommodation whilst I was waiting for my Thai visa. I got a lovely local bus up and rang Paddy. Unfortunately for me when he got there he had headed straight to the bars and was absolutely hammered. It took me an hour to find him as every time I r...