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John Borthwick

Travel writer

John Borthwick is a Sydney-based freelance travel writer specialising in Asia Pacific destinations. His career in travel writing/journalism has spanned over 30 years.

Economy seats offer 32 inches (81 centimetres) of seat pitch.

Service may have fallen, but this Asian airline still delivers

My neighbour, a newcomer to air travel, has little concept of private space or armrest etiquette.

  • John Borthwick
The Victoria’s impressive chandelier and a central staircase.

As a travel writer, here’s where I stay in Melbourne when I’m paying

Built before the era of big gyms and pools, this CBD hotel is cosmopolitan, unpretentious, calm – and very affordable.

  • John Borthwick
Fort Bokar, on the western corner of Dubrovnik’s city walls.

This Mediterranean megaship odyssey feels like time travelling

History is at your fingertips – and your feet – when you cruise the Mediterranean aboard a megaship.

  • John Borthwick
City skyline views from the rooftop pool.

This upscale brand’s first Thai hotel is a haven of good taste

Madi Paidi offers an enjoyable respite from the intensity of Bangkok, tailor-made for city trippers, design fans and adventurous diners.

  • John Borthwick
Temple of the Emerald Buddha… arrive early to beat the crowd.

The must-do highlights of Bangkok in three days

Bangkok defies metaphor. An enigma wrapped in a traffic jam? Just step out and surrender to its din and aromas over this three-day itinerary.

  • John Borthwick
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Dawn over the river in Bangkok.

Twenty things that will surprise first-time visitors to Bangkok

From the world’s biggest and most diverse market to the world’s biggest water fight, expect the unexpected in this shape-shifting city.

  • John Borthwick
The economical Special Express 40.

Thai train’s blink-and-you’ll-miss-it highlight

This scenic rail journey is rocky at times, but it costs just $30 for a near nine-hour trip.

  • John Borthwick
Views over Kwai Noi River on one of Kanchanaburi’s steam trains.

Seven great ways to get around Thailand without flying

Forget about planes, not to mention elephants and tuk-tuks – there are plenty of great options for exploring Thailand at ground level.

  • John Borthwick
Bells, whistles and wellness – Anantara Riverside.

Bangkok’s best places to stay, from budget to luxury

Bangkok has about 80,300 hotel rooms. You can check in at any level, from backpacker bunkroom to presidential suite, and your stay will never seem long enough.

  • John Borthwick
Nakhon Si Thammarat International Airport.

This new airport is the gateway to Thailand’s emerging beach hotspots

This new $62.5 million airport is well designed and well run (with one exception).

  • John Borthwick