An itinerary for a Cambodia and Vietnam holiday with a young family

Considering a four-week holiday to Vietnam and Cambodia in April with two children aged three and nine months. Beach resort plus sightseeing. Can you suggest an itinerary or are we off our rockers? S. Brice, Neutral Bay

Most parents of infants are slightly deranged from lack of sleep, juggling work/childcare and general anxiety as they face the fact that their formerly well-organised lives are now in turmoil, but that's no reason to stay home.

Start from the premise that their happiness is paramount. Bangkok would be a better first stop than any of the cities in Vietnam since it has more attractions that are likely to keep those kids amused and entertained, such as the Grand Palace, the temples, fast boat rides along the river and through the klongs and the great puppet show that happens most days at the Baan Silapin Artists' Village.

Also, hotels in Bangkok are one of the all-time bargains. Plan a few hours of sightseeing in the early morning, a big chunk of downtime by the pool in the middle of the day and another outing in late afternoon/early evening.

Perhaps four nights in Bangkok, then fly to Siem Reap to take in Angkor. Kids do not do old stonework well so don't be too ambitious but again, a couple of days of judicious expeditions to the temples in morning and evening should be okay. Hire one of those motorcycle guys with the carriage behind to get from your hotel out to the temples, the kids will love that.

Next stop could be Hanoi, with a couple of days in the city before an excursion to Halong Bay to spend a few days sailing among the islands. There are heaps of cruises to choose from but go for high quality and sift reviews on TripAdvisor.

Hoi An is a major resort area with heaps of family-friendly accommodation at competitive prices. You could easily spend a week here by the pool, having massages, strolling along the beach and taking in the atmospheric old town, and the wizard local tailors could set the kids up with their first made-to-measure outfits.

Finally, Ho Chi Minh City for a few last days before a flight back to Australia.

Four weeks is generous. I'd trim this back to three. For the nitty-gritty you might talk to Insider Journeys http://www.insider-journeys.com/ [insider-journeys.com].

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