Affordable Comfort

Day one focuses on Bangkok's most iconic temples and gives you your first feel for the Chao Phraya River. Before you head out, keep in mind that all three temples enforce a strict dress code: cover your shoulders and knees, and avoid see-through fabrics or tight athletic wear.   Sarongs and shirts are available to rent near the entrance, but queues can be long, so it's easier to dress appropriately from the start.

Discover the essence of Chiang Mai as you explore its historic temples and everyday life in the Old City.

Northwest of Marseille and well away from tourist crowds, the Med coastline is home to a necklace of charming, peaceful seaside villages backing calanques (coves) and azure seas. Base yourself at affordable ibis Martigues in magical Martigues – the “little Venice” of Provence – to stroll the enchanting Île district, the Miroir aux Oiseaux fishing port and quays lined with colourful houses. With waves gently lapping against traditional fishing boats, this tranquil setting inspired many early 20th-century artists.   In the afternoon, head to Plage de Ferrières for a refreshing dip in the sea and a glass of chilled rosé wine in one of its guinguette beach bars. While you’re in the area, you can also go snorkelling in the Calanque de Niolon or follow the Sentier du Lézard (Lizard Trail) shoreline walk between the laidback resorts of Carry-le-Rouet and Sausset-les-Pins – and if you’re happy to travel a little further afield, why not visit Nice for a day soaking up the sun on the city’s public beaches?

When it comes to sunshine, you can’t go wrong with the South of France. Canet-en-Roussillon is a little seaside town near Perpignan. Never heard of it? That’s a good thing – neither have the throngs of tourists that flock to the big-name resorts. Grand Large beach is a huge stretch of golden sand that practically demands total relaxation, while the beachfront promenade is perfect for morning jogs and afternoon strolls. And if you fancy a change from contemplating the horizon, switch it up with a trip to the Canet-Saint-Nazaire Lagoon – it’s quieter, cooler and ideal for gentle lakeside walks.   July is all about night markets and street performances. The ibis Styles Perpignan Canet-en-Roussillon hotel makes the perfect base for an affordable holiday in July, with free parking, an outdoor pool and a gym. And if you want to explore the region, you can be in Perpignan in just 15 minutes.

Your first day covers the history of Old Delhi and the landmarks of central New Delhi.

A culinary remnant of the French colonial era, the banh mi is a baguette sandwich with a Vietnamese twist. The crispy and fluffy baguette is slathered with pate and mayonnaise before getting stuffed with meat - usually pork - cucumbers, pickled carrots and daikon, cilantro, jalapeños, and chilli sauce.   This is a street food staple in Ho Chi Minh City. And while it is a common breakfast item, banh mi can be enjoyed at any time of day.    Where to try it: Banh mi street food vendors are ubiquitous in Saigon. However, if you've only got 24 hours in Ho Chi Minh City and want to try one of the city's best, Banh Mi Huynh Hoa in District 1 is known for its meaty, overstuffed banh mi sandwiches. It's not the cheapest, but it's worth it if you come hungry.   Address: 26 Le Thi Rieng, Phuong Pham Ngu Lao, Quan 1

A smart carry-on packing list is both an art and a science. Whether you're taking checked luggage or not, here are the essential items for your cabin bag.

Palace courtyards and old neighbourhoods are cheap to visit and full of atmosphere. Some palaces have modest admission charges for the buildings, while grounds and surrounding areas are free to walk. Time your visit for a guard-changing ceremony or a weekday morning to avoid crowds. Nearby Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong let you see traditional houses and craft shops without spending much.

Start your day at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most recognisable of Seoul’s five grand palaces. Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy wandering the courtyards and gates at your leisure. If you’re curious about daily life in historic Korea, the nearby National Folk Museum provides some fascinating insights.   From here, walk to Bukchon Hanok Village. This residential area is known for its preserved hanok houses and narrow lanes. It’s a working neighbourhood, so keep noise low and follow local signage. If you’re up for a gentle climb, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views over the tiled roofs.