A mother-daughter guide to traveling Southeast Asia together for a month.

“Ill come, too” wasnt exactly what I expected.

But the past few years have taught me that my mom, Lori, is full of surprises.

Mother and daughter hold hands walking down a pathway lined with statues and trees

Credit:Courtesy of Sophie Dodd

She was the one to decide on a monthlong Southeast Asia trip.

It was such a nice touch, she said.

The leather case for our TV remote was as delightful to her as our having a round-the-clock butler.

A mother stands in a pool with arms wide and mountainous landscape in the background. A young adult female in a fun black and white room at The Standard Bangkok

Courtesy of Sophie Dodd

When we returned to the city at the end of our trip, we stayed atThe Standard, Bangkok.

Drama is definitely served at the hotels mirrored swimming pool and in the sultry sake bar, Akio.

Back in town, theres another extravagantly designed Bill Bensley stunner:Hotel de la Coupole.

Mother and daughter hold champagne flutes at sunset on a cruise boat at Six Senses

Courtesy of Sophie Dodd

If lounging around doesnt appeal, theres snorkeling, paddleboarding, and the option to island hop locally.

Consider the length and frequency of your travel days.

For extended car travel, be sure to ask about air-conditioning.

Mother and daughter on a boat with a boat steward in Ninh Binh

Courtesy of Sophie Dodd

Have a frank conversation about budget.

Be upfront about where you prefer to cut costs versus splurge, and where youre willing to compromise.

Allow space to pursue individual pursuits.

Mother and daughter cooking together in a class and the same mother and daughter posing at Angkor Wat

Courtesy of Sophie Dodd

(Pro tip: Ask for separate beds whenever possible, and bring Imodium.)

Taking time apart felt crucial to our enjoying each others company.

Solo time also gave us fresh things to discuss at dinner each night.

Take the trip.