Long and narrow, Vietnam stretches from the mountains bordering China to the tropical waterways of the Mekong Delta. Between them are energetic cities, historic trading ports, imperial monuments, rural villages, a varied coastline and one of Asia’s most distinctive food cultures.

Thailand combines energetic cities, historic kingdoms, forested mountains and tropical coastlines within a country that is both rewarding to explore and relatively easy to travel through.

Cambodia is best known for the temples of Angkor, but the country extends far beyond its most celebrated monuments.

Laos moves at a gentler pace than much of Southeast Asia. Mountain landscapes, forested river valleys, Buddhist temples and rural communities shape a country where the journey between destinations can be as memorable as the places themselves.

Indonesia is an archipelago of extraordinary scale and variety. Thousands of inhabited islands stretch between the Indian and Pacific oceans, encompassing volcanic mountains, tropical forests, coral reefs, historic cities and communities with distinct languages, beliefs and cultural traditions.

Japan rewards curiosity. Beyond the immediate impressions of high-speed trains, illuminated city streets and meticulously maintained temples lies a country shaped by distinct regional identities, seasonal traditions and an extraordinary attention to detail.

South Korea brings together royal palaces, mountain landscapes, historic villages and fast-moving contemporary cities within a country that is compact and relatively easy to explore.