2 flights, 3 countries, 2 nights, 6–8 Dec
ManilaHanoi2nChiang Mai
Stay 2 nights in Hanoi, ending in Chiang Mai with no flight back. Hanoi is a capital and near lakes; Chiang Mai is near mountains. About 2,500 km of flying in all as the crow flies. It gets warmer as it goes: typical December highs rise from 21°C in Hanoi to 29°C in Chiang Mai. Flights work out at about €117 a night, with a cabin bag usually included.
Stop by stop
Manila
Philippines, Start, Sun 6 Dec
Hanoi
Vietnam, 2 nights, 6–8 Dec
Vietnam's capital, with the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem and West lakes, the Imperial Citadel, street food on plastic stools and French-era boulevards.
Typical December: highs of 21°C, dryNo other city has fares in and out on these days.
Chiang Mai
Thailand, Last stop, Tue 8 Dec
Northern Thailand's main city, a walled old town full of temples below Doi Suthep, with night markets, cooking classes and hill treks out of town.
Typical December: highs of 29°C, drySwap at randomSwap Chiang Mai for…
Same days, the rest of the trip kept, only cities close in price. A swapped-in country may need a visa: check before you go.