How to Plan a 2-Week Family Trip to Southeast Asia

If you're looking for ideas for an exotic family trip with your kids, you might want to check out our article...

Southeast Asia is a destination where both parents and kids can relax and be entertained in many ways as well as gain different cultural perspectives.

Two weeks is the Southeast Asia trip length chosen by most families with children. We cover more specific advice and planning tips for a 2-week family trip below…

Where to Go for a 2-Week Family Vacation in Southeast Asia

A 2-week trip could comfortably cover two or three countries in Southeast Asia. Visiting three countries is more popular.

2 Weeks for 3 Countries

For families traveling to Southeast Asia for the first time, the best travel combination for 2 weeks is Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Thailand, without a doubt, is the most popular destination in Southeast Asia. It is a world of fun for children. Elephant Parks in Chiang Mai, cooking classes, jungle walks in Khao Yai National Park to find wildlife, Bangkok's "railway market" and long-tail boat experiences, floating houses in Kanchanaburi, and more are all activities that parents and children can do together.

Meet elephants in Thailand

Vietnam is a land of adventure with rustic charm. Parents can spend an exciting and fun time with kids kayaking, swimming, and exploring hidden caves in Halong Bay, going on a rafting adventure in Pu Luong Nature Reserve, taking a tricycle to explore Hanoi's Old Quarter for egg coffee, Vietnamese sandwiches, and other local food...

Kayaking in Halong Bay with Kids

In Cambodia, take your children on a cultural journey to explore Angkor Wat and discover its charm and importance that has made it the emblem on the Cambodian flag. An ox cart ride could be also an interesting experience for your family trip.

Explore Angkor Wat's history and culture with kids

2 Weeks for 2 Countries

If you want a more relaxed travel pace, visiting two countries in 2 weeks is ideal.

We recommend these two combinations: 1) Thailand and Cambodia, 2) Vietnam and Cambodia. Thailand offers more vibrant activities, while Vietnam features slow-paced lifestyles and outdoor adventures.

Why not Thailand and Vietnam? Because Cambodia tourism focuses around Angkor, you only need to spend an extra two or three days to see its highlights.

So, we suggest adding Cambodia. Angkor Wat is indeed a sight to behold, which you will not see in other countries.

Or, if you have other destinations you're interested in, like Bali or Singapore, you can contact us by sending your ideas, travel time available, group size, etc. We will make a tour plan to suit your family.

China Highlights, Asia Highlights, and Global Highlights collaborate to provide families and couples with personalized and stress-free experiences in diverse destinations.

Great Experience WOW! I’ve traveled Asia some & I must say Sharon & Asia Highlights made this trip so much more enjoyable and easy More Stephen Hollis, Aug 2023

Alisa has has been great to work with Alisa with Asia Highlights has has been great to work with. Very friendly and responsive. More Ana Rausch, Aug 2023

Using Sharon right now to book our… Using Sharon right now to book our upcoming trip to Thailand. She has booked everything that we asked for. Has answered all of my inquiries, which has been many! Looking forward to having a great girls trip in Thailand More Tracy, Aug 2023

Thailand, Singapore, Bali In Thailand, Tanny and Nori(Suparp), were both incredible! They were both fun, funny, and full of knowledge and made sure we got the full experience. They went the extra mile and always made sure we had cold bottled water and towels to cleanse our hands. In Singapore, Nicole was an absolute gem. She was so kind and knowledgeable and guided us in the right direction to make our day as enjoyable as possible. She helped us choose a top notch local lunch and coffee spot in China Town and taught us so much about the country! In Bali, Emon was an absolute joy. He was very knowledgeable and kind and absolutely made sure we were feeling comfortable and was willing to be flexible with us. He was fun to converse with and made our time traveling between destinations so enjoyable! I cannot recommend Asia Highlights enough! Accommodations, travel arrangements and guided tours were all a breeze. More Cassi Thunker, Jul 2023

Very supportive Very supportive ! I have received eticket for Sky Lattern Festival very fast More Chi?n Nguy?n Ng?c, Jul 2023

My experience in Chang Mai with Asia Highlights I greatly enjoyed my experience with Asia Highlights for a trip I booked to Thailand.All of my interests were catered too. My guide in Chang Mai Gemma was excellent.I truly felt the soul of Thailand culture and Buddhism. More Richard, Jul 2023

A pleasure to plan with Well, this has been a painless and pleasurable process to find such a wonderful company. I had specific dates and places to be and Sharon worked with me diligently to refine the schedule and costs to suit my travel needs and budget. She informed me of a special tour on the dates I am to be in Thailand and I added that to my previous plans. More Chris Williams, Jul 2023

Large multi-generational holiday in Thailand The holiday was wonderful. Our guides, Mr Monchai (Bangkok), and Ms Tipagorn (Tippy) (Chiang Mai) were exceptional. Travelling in a large multigenerational group with many children requires patience and our guides truly understood that. Mr Monchai and Ms Tippy shared their extensive knowledge of the many wonderful places we visited, and were flexible to take us to additional places along the way based on discussions. While everyday was busy, having them greet us with patience and a smile truly made this a memorable holiday. The hotels we stayed at were equally wonderful and went above and beyond to celebrate not only my parents 50th anniversary but also celebrate 2 milestone birthdays that occurred. We will cherish this holiday for many years to come. We hope to use Asia Highlights again. More CL, Jul 2023

I never used a travel agent in my life I never used a travel agent in my life, but Sharon for Asia Highlights did a phenomenal job helping planning and coordination a family vacation. The best part of working with Sharon was that she maintained an open line of communication and provided answers to my question well within 12-24 hours. Additionally, Sharon was flexible and customized our vacation to my families needs. Overall great experience. More Antione Barry, Jul 2023

Great company to plan a trip to Southeast Asia! Sharon Haung has been wonderful to work with! Very patient and accommodating. Responds immediately given time change and is prepared, prompt, and professional. More Debi Hinerfeld, Jul 2023

We took a 15 days trip (10 days Vietnam and 5 days Thailand … It was an amazing experience the guides and drivers were there awaiting for us at each airoport for a transfer to the hotels also on time for all the tours all the guides were so lovely , very experienced and spoke very good English , one of the days on tour in Thailand I lost my phone in a temple in Bangkok mr chai went out of his way in a middle of thousands of visitors and managed to find an bring it back to me I found that amazing , also while on a trip I contacted Jason li out tour organizer few time via whatup and he replied and helped on the spot I recommend asiahilights 150% The quality of the service hotels the guides the drivers outstanding From start to finish ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT ???? More SIMO el ghobar, Jun 2023

Wonderful Guides and Experience Our large group arrived in Bangkok with Tanni as our guide. She was wonderful! An absolute joy to spend time with. She is knowledgeable, kind, and extremely funny. I don’t know what we would have done without her! After Bangkok, we traveled to Chang Mai, where Indy was our tour guide. She was a delight! She is kind, knowledgeable, and so patient. Our trip to Thailand was an adventure of a lifetime and these two women helped make it memorable. I would definitely use Asia Highlights for any future travel in Asia. More Jessica Bennett, Jun 2023

Guide - Chai We travelled from Vietnam to Bangkok and were blessed to have a guide named Chai. He was a superb guide and it is a pity we couldn't bottle him and take him home. He was very knowledgeable and an absolute gentleman. He could not have done enough to facilitate us and imparted so much knowledge about the Temples, Buddism and the History of Thailand in general. Not only did he give us a great overview of the past and current ways of living in Thailand but I also feel I came away a much better person having interacting with him. I will carry many of his teachings with me for the rest of my life and know that having met him was a very special blessing in my life. More Customer, Jun 2023

Our guide Tanni was kind Our guide Tanni was kind, knowledgeable, funny and beyond accommodating for our group. We felt like we'd made a friend and it enhanced our trip in the most positive way. Everything was coordinated perfectly which is not easy to do in a large traveling group. Excellent experience! More Marissa Manson, Jun 2023

We are only on day 5 of our 15 day trip… Our first stop so far was in Hanoi where our guide Trong was just so awesome! He shared about his culture and family life which showing us sites through a city tour. He was so funny making lots of jokes and always made sure we were having fun while learning about everything! He checked on us frequently even when we were no longer with him since we then went on a cruise in Halong Bay! Halong Bay and the cruise on Paradise Elegance went way above anything I expected. The scenery was breathtaking, the ship was so beautiful and clean with such fresh, good food! And I can’t sing enough praise for the staff who took care of us- especially Anna and Belle! They went above and beyond to make sure we enjoyed every aspect from eating meals with Anna to every other detail with Belle! I highly recommend Asian Highlights to help plan these extraordinary trips! This already has been a trip of a lifetime and we still have so much more to see all thanks to Cathy!! More Diane Creitz, Jun 2023

Tanni for the win! 14 of my closest friends and family descended upon Bangkok ready to see the town. Asia highlights and Tanni took us on a tour that changed our lives. We experienced so much everyday. Tanni was amazing! She did all the thinking for us, so we all could just be present and enjoy the moment. I can’t recommend this company, and especially Tanni enough. More Megan McGlynn, Jun 2023

This isn't my first trip with Asia… This isn't my first trip with Asia Highlights. They are great at helping me plan, working my requests into the itinerary, and booking it all. We travel with friends and just got back from a trip to Thailand and Vietnam. Albee did a great job with all the details and we had a wonderful time. We will use them for our next adventure! More Katie Potesta, Jun 2023

Amazing service Although we have not been our trip yet I wanted to still write a review based on customer service and the ease of booking. Alisa has been extremely prompt and responsive with planning our trip to Thailand. She has had great recommendations and guidance to add to our custom itinerary. Highly recommend using Asia highlights! -Alex More Alex, May 2023

I have never hear of this company… I have never hear of this company before , and after reading all these reviews ,I decided to give it a try . The professionalism and communicative skill received by one of the agent , Sharon of Asia Highlights , convince me that She was the right travel agent for my trip in Asia . Very quickly she communicated with me and got all the detail of my desire vacation . Sharon made me a great itinerary with great experiences that I am dreaming to experience and I am looking forward to it . Thanks Sharon for been so great and crafting me a dream vacation with great suggestions. More orge alvarez, May 2023

Coco Yang worked tirelessly to… From the moment I landed in Bangkok, Ms Noi Ying was there to welcome me and get me settled into my hotel. We enjoyed several days together touring Bangkok and Kanchanaburi. In Chiang Mai, Mr Ekachai took my son snd I on an amazing trip to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and to visit a community Lanna home, gardens and a hands-on cooking class preparing an authentic Thai meal. Lisa arranged a last-minute speedboat tour of 5 breathtaking islands in Phuket. From start to finish, the guides exceeded my expectations!! Thank you, Asia Highlight!! Debbie Woods More Debbie Woods, May 2023

Itinerary Ideas: The Best 3 Options for Families with Kids

Here are the three most popular itinerary ideas for a SE Asia family trip. What we cover below are just samples. If you have any changes you want to make, just contact us. All of our tours can be modified according to your requirements.

1. Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia

This is the most chosen itinerary. It takes at least 15 days to cover all the major cities' classic highlights and have some quality time for family activities like having a close encounter with elephants in a jungle in Chiang Mai in Thailand, a cruise on Halong Bay with swimming, fishing, and kayaking experiences, meeting locals in Mekong Delta's villages, and enjoying a fascinating folk song performance...

• Days 1–2: Bangkok, Thailand, (arrival and city sightseeing — Grand Palace, China Town, a long-tail boat ride)
• Days 3–5: Chiang Mai, Thailand (meet elephants in a jungle, food and flower market, temples, a rickshaw ride...)
• Days 6–7: Hanoi, Vietnam (city exploration — iconic buildings, food hunting in the old town, water puppet performance...)
• Days 8–9: Halong Bay cruise with kayaking, swimming, and hidden cave exploration
• Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (city sightseeing — Vietnam War relics, city landmark buildings...)
• Day 11: Mekong Delta (a motorboat ride on the Mekong, visit local villages, watch a folk song performance...)
• Days 12–14: Siem Reap, Cambodia (Angkor Wat, an ox cart ride, visit a tribe whose territory was once a hub for the elephant trade)
• Day 15: Departure

15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour Immerse Yourself in Southeast Asia's Rich Cultural Heritage and Natural Wonders

This 15-day itinerary doesn't include beach time. If you are looking for a beach holiday (aspect), you may need to add 3–4 days. See our 19-Day Highlights of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

2. Vietnam and Cambodia

A trip to Vietnam and Cambodia takes at least 12–14 days. Vietnam is more suitable for parents who would enjoy some peaceful countryside exploration with some outdoor adventures with kids.

In Vietnam, with kids, you are recommended to spend more days on Halong Bay for more activities like discovering its beaches, cycling experience, and an onboard cooking class.

You'd also travel to central Vietnam to explore Hoi An Ancient Town, where you could try making Vietnamese lanterns with your children. There, you could also enjoy the sun on the beaches of Vietnam.

In Cambodia, besides Angkor Wat, there are more activities for kids and parents like hiking in Kbal Spean jungle and having a bike adventure to a tropical sunset viewpoint.

• Days 1–2: Hanoi, Vietnam (arrival and city sightseeing with a cyclo tour)
• Days 3–5: Halong Bay cruise with kayaking, cave exploring, and cycling experience
• Day 6: Hoi An town sightseeing with a Vietnamese lantern making experience
• Days 7–8: Beach time in Da Nang
• Days 9–10: Ho Chi Minh and Mekong Delta exploration
• Days 11–14: Siem Reap, Cambodia (Angkor Wat, a village quad bike ride…)

Find the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia and check Itinerary options for 2 weeks in Vietnam and Cambodia>>>

14-Day Vietnam and Cambodia Family TourHanoi-Halong Bay-Hoi An-Danang-Ho Chi Minh-Siem Reap

3. Thailand and Cambodia

If your kids like water sports such as snorkeling and would look forward to elephants more, then Thailand and Cambodia are more recommended.

A trip to Thailand and Cambodia takes at least 11 days.

In Thailand, children can expect a close encounter with elephants in a jungle. Parents and kids can have some quality beach time on Phuket and the nearby Phi Phi Islands, which are best for swimming and snorkeling. You can also try some new things like a Thai cooking class.

In Cambodia, visit Angkor Wat, take an ox cart ride, and enjoy a quiet time by a lake at sunset in Siem Reap.

• Days 1–2: Bangkok (Grand Palace, renowned temples, China Town)
• Days 3–5: Siem Reap (Angkor Wat and other famous cultural sites)
• Days 6–8: Chiang Mai (Elephant Rescue Park, a Thai cooking class, temples)
• Days 9–11: Phuket beach time and seaside activities

Check more itinerary ideas in 2-Week Thailand-and-Cambodia Itineraries>>>

11-Day Best of Thailand and Cambodia Tour From the Ruins of Angkor to the Beauties of Chiang Mai and Phuket Island

How to Choose a Southeast Asia Hotel for Your Family

In most Southeast Asian countries, their hotels' standard and ratings are similar to Western countries'.

For cities with a strong night market culture, like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Hanoi, you could choose a hotel in the downtown area to make it more convenient to bring your kids to a night market.

If you want to have special and unique accommodation experiences, Thailand should be your target. You would need to go to some off-the-beaten-path places though, like Kanchanaburi, where you can find floating houses, and Khao Sok National Park with its jungle tree house experience.

If you have Phuket Island in your itinerary, you can choose different beaches to stay near according to your needs. For example, if you want a lively beach with various options for shopping, food, and entertainment, then we suggest you stay near Patong Beach. If you want a quiet environment, then Karan Beach or Kata Beach are two good options. See more on Where to Stay in Phuket — 16 Best Beaches in Phuket

Our travel advisors can recommend suitable hotels according to your specific accommodation needs, including location requirements, hotel facilities, hotel environment, etc. Just contact us.

19-Day In-Depth Tour of Southeast Asia Experience the Splendor of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam

Best Times to Visit Southeast Asia

Enjoy beach time on sunny days

Southeast Asia generally offers its best weather conditions from November to February, which is just perfect for a tropical winter vacation (in the northern hemisphere).

The Christmas and New Year holiday period is the peak season. Early booking is highly recommended. December 22 to January 3 is the most expensive time to go. Hotel prices can increase by 2–3 times. For more weather details in Southeast Asia, check in Southeast Asia Weather in December>>>

Many luxury hotels and beach resorts often impose minimum-stay restrictions (usually more than 3 nights), and a compulsory dinner on the day of Christmas and New Year's Eve.

For more tips for a family trip to Southeast Asia in the Christmas / New Year holidays, see 20 Expert Tips for Christmas 2023

Summer holidays can be a cost-efficient time for a trip to Southeast Asia, because it is the rainy season. But, usually, this only means short afternoon downpours, with the rest of the day sunny. As a bonus, you would enjoy less-crowded beaches and temples.

>>>Best Times to Visit Southeast Asia, Worst Times, Rainy Season...

12-Day Thailand Family Holiday Bangkok- Kanchanaburi - Ayutthaya - Chiang Mai - Koh Samui

Costs for a Family Trip to Southeast Asia

A private tour is an affordable luxury in Southeast Asia, which with us would include high-quality and worry-free service and planning.

Here are the typical prices for a private tour in Southeast Asia for a general idea:

• $200–250 per person per day for adults and 30%–50% off for a kid younger than 10 years old, including 4- or 5-star hotels, a private guide, private transport, sightseeing fees, accommodation, and flights within Southeast Asia.

Thus, for a private family trip with 2 adults and 2 kids, the cost for a 2-week trip in Southeast Asia would be about USD 10,000 to USD 12,000. International airfares are not included.

Our private tours are the hassle-free solution to making family trip arrangements. Our private transfers are by far the most convenient choice for a trip with kids and much baggage.

With Asia Highlights, you could enjoy free tour cancellations (except your international flights from/to your country) up to 22 days before departure.

All our tours below can be adjust based on your family's interests, hotel preferences, transportation needs, and other requirements.

• 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour
• 14-Day Vietnam and Cambodia Family Tour — Quality Time Journey
• 19-Day Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam In-Depth Tour
• Or just contact us to custom-make your family holiday.

Tips for a Family Trip to Southeast Asia

1. Travel Restriction. Most Southeast Asian countries have lifted entry restrictions related to COVID-19, including Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Children or even adults who aren't fully vaccinated can enter and travel freely.

2. Southeast Asia is warm all year around. Pack light, breathable clothing. If you have a trip to the jungle, be prepared with mosquito spray and some light leggings or long trousers etc. to cover your skin.

3. Southeast Asian food features many sweet and sour dishes that are popular with children for example, Thailand's mango sticky rice. There will be some spiciness. Ask the waiter about spiciness when you order and they may be able to make some dishes less spicy or suggest alternatives. Western restaurants are also easy to find if your children do not adapt well to the local tastes.