Travel Review: Custom Thailand & Cambodia Tour, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Elephant Nature Park, Chiang Rai, Siem Reap, Angkor Wat

Ensuring a variety of experiences and balancing the rustic with the luxury.
Volunteering at the Elephant Nature Park (instead of one of the tourist-focused 'camps' that do not put the elephants first). This made a huge difference in the experience and education provided about the plight if elephants in SE Asia today.
Also the very personal visit to the Cambodian school and the compassion of our guide there.
The best memories are when we went beyond the letter of the itinerary and were able to gain a deeper experience.
Seeing the great variety within Thailand is essential - temples, nature/wildlife, city palaces, karsts.... You can't just go to one area.