Other than the disproportionate number of fortune tellers lining the lane, there does not seem to be anything extraordinary about Wat Mahabut in central Bangkok.  Like other temples, locals stroll through the peaceful grounds, carrying offerings or feeding strays.

Yet in a shady enclave at the...

With romanticized visions of Hanoi, we set off on a seemingly relaxing weekend away from the chaotic streets of Bangkok. Not knowing what to expect, our thoughts dabbled around notions of taking leisurely cyclo rides, boating on a lotus-filled lake, and sipping Vietnamese coffee in quiet cafes. We...