Thailand and Burma or Laos?
 

Planning a trip to Thailand early 2015, and want to combine with either Burma or Laos. Only have about 16 days including travel days. Want a couple days Bangkok, Chang Mai, Southern Thailand beaches or islands. So the side trip to Burma or Laos will have to be short. It's one or the other easier to travel to from Thailand? Visas required? Itinerary advice? I've been to Bangkok already (many years ago) so don't need much time there.

If you are choosing between the two, I would pick Luang Prabang (Laos) since you can easily see everything there in 3 days or so and you can fly there from Chiang Mai or Bangkok. If you back out your travel days, though, you really only have about 13 days in Asia, so you probably should just stick with Thailand and save Laos and Myanmar for another trip.

Both countries (Laos and Myanmar/Burma) require visas for U.S. citizens. Not sure about for other nationalities.

agree with internetwiz

It largely depends on your priorities, but given the time you have available, I too would pick a side trip to Luang Prabang. Much as I like the city, I would give CM a miss.

3-4 nights is a good amount of time to see LP at a leisurely pace with maybe a side trip out into the countryside or a boat trip upriver. most visitors will take a side trip to Kuang Si, a weaving village waterfalls and/or Pak Ou buddha caves. personally, i would rather spend the time in the town.

Most nationalities can get visas on arrival at the airport. the cost varies from $30-40.

Lots of choice for beach time. at that time of year the Andaman cost will have the better weather. as you don't provide any info on what type of accommodation your are seeking (e.g. quiet/active - beach hut or 5*) it is difficult to recommend anything specific

For a short trip, choose Laos. You can get a visa at most land borders or at the airport upon your arrival. Burma is really a longer trip. I'd suggest at least 10 days for a first trip to Burma.

ditto
Leave Myanmar for another trip, 10 days minimum and save up as it is far more expensive than Laos due to number of visitors/shortage of hotels.
Don't disregard a few days in Vientiane, there is more to Laos than LP.
SS

Stick to Thailand, and save Laos and/or Myanmar for next time.

I vote for Burma.

Takes 2 days to get your visa though.Drop off and pick up. Ck times and days.Go early long lines! So that is a problem u will loose time there.
. A hr flight to get there.i enjoyed Yangon.no need for a guide there.lThree to four days is good.