Hi everyone! Airline employee spouse looking for ideas for next trip to Asia. From the States, it's a haul, so our options are Delta (NW). We have been to BKK and Hua Hin and Bali for a wk+ in past few yrs.
We're just open for some thoughts and paths to pursue--we like lux travel, some challenge but not backpacking at all. Our total time in country is 9 days typically, since we expect to return, God willing.
Best port of entry, transport ideas (we are at the mercy of last minute purchase due to standby issues) and any special travel agencies over there... big request but I think you're up to the task!! We're not shoppers/beachbums--culture/history are our interests. Thanks in advance--Cheers!

Hey Kyshel, I think flying into BKK and using that as your hub is your best option. As for cultural and historical hotspots, obvious the ruins around Angor and Siem Riep should be on your radar, but you may want something a little less touristy.

I've heard that Vietnam has seen a rise in Vietnam War museums - might be worth checking out.

Where/when are you thinking about going exactly?

mista--thanks for for reply. funny--my sister lives in Woodland Park! small world.
we're thinking about end Oct 2010. BKK is logical for base, yes. from there...what's the best access/direction? do we need to buy tour pkg on arrival? please toss out those ideas and we'll start working some angles!
cheers

Small world indeed, and growing smaller every day :)

Unless you're exceeding gutsy, I'd stay from renting a bike/cylco/push at first. Overland travel is my personal favorite as it offers a slower, more played out experience. Flights are great for the long hauls, but if you have the time a bus/train can provide so much more experience.

Going SE on the main Highway (name elludes me) from Bangkok you can access Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, then maybe head south to Sihanoukville and the coast before pushing on to Vietnam and Laos.

Personally, I'm always hesitant to book to much when not in the area, but I am a big advocate of knowing what your options are and evening placing a few enquiries in advance of your arrival to see what the pricing schemes and various route/packages offer.

Best,

-Chris