Asian Emotions 18 Days

Embark on a scenic journey by private minibus to the magnificent Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its picturesque limestone islands, sandy coves, and enchanting grottoes. After a 4-hour drive, board a private boat and set sail through the bay. Explore the mesmerizing Surprise Cave and, during warmer months, take a refreshing swim at Ti Top Island Beach. Inside the cave, be cautious as the pathways can be a bit uneven. As the day concludes, spend an unforgettable evening on the boat, enjoying the company of your fellow travelers under the starry night sky. It's like a classic sleepover in an extraordinary setting. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Boat Important Note: The boat features twin-share cabins with air conditioning and private facilities. There's also a dining room and bar for meals. We recommend packing a small overnight bag for convenience. Your main luggage will be stored in Hanoi overnight. Kayaking and swimming are permitted only in designated areas within the bay. Depending on availability, you may share the boat with another group or be split across different vessels, but the itinerary and inclusions will remain the same.

As you bid farewell to the captivating scenery of Halong Bay, there's one more meaningful stop before you depart. Visit the Green Life Centre, a remarkable initiative dedicated to transforming discarded items from Halong Bay into exquisite handicrafts. Meet the passionate team behind this cause and learn the art of upcycling by creating your own reusable bag from recycled materials. After this inspiring visit, return to Hanoi by bus (approximately 3.5 hours). Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at your leisure, savoring a bowl of pho, the iconic Vietnamese dish. Take in the serenity of Hoan Kiem Lake until it's time to board the overnight train to Hue later this evening. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Sleeper train Important Note: Shared day use hotel rooms are provided in Hanoi for refreshing before the overnight train journey, with one room for every six group members. Sleeper trains typically have compartments with four or six berths, featuring bench seats that convert into sleeping bunks. Bedding essentials such as sheets, pillows, and blankets are provided, although you can bring your own sleeping sheet if preferred. Depending on the group configuration, you may share the compartment with individuals of different genders or non-group passengers. Your leader will manage the arrangements and provide additional information about the train.

Upon arrival in Hue around 11 am, you will be transferred to the hotel. Formerly the Imperial Capital of Vietnam, Hue holds a rich legacy of the country's royal past. Take advantage of the morning to relax or embark on your own explorations. For those seeking culinary delights, the vibrant Dong Ba Market is a must-visit, offering a chance to savor delicacies like Banh Khoai (Royal Rice Cake) that once graced the tables of the Nguyen emperors. Later, reconvene with the group to explore the war-damaged ruins of the Imperial Citadel, an expansive city-within-a-city housing temples, government buildings, and the Emperor's Palace. Meals: None included Accommodation: Hotel

Experience Hue like a local by hopping on the back of a motorcycle! Ride through the city with a knowledgeable guide, exploring both historical and modern attractions. Visit Thanh Toan, an 18th-century covered bridge, and observe locals shopping at the bustling market. Explore the active Buddhist monastery of Thien Mu Pagoda, where you can see the car of Thích Quang Duc, the monk who famously self-immolated in protest. Indulge in a delicious vegetarian lunch at a nunnery. Conclude the tour at the serene lakeside tomb of Emperor Tu Duc before returning to the city. Catering: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Same as previous night

Embark on a scenic bus journey through picturesque coastal rice paddies and the breathtaking Hai Van Pass (approximately 3 hours). Pause for a memorable photo opportunity before arriving in the charming town of Hoi An. This recently designated World Heritage Site was once a bustling international trading port in the 17th to 19th centuries. Today, its well-preserved streets exude a timeless charm. Explore the Old Town on a guided walking tour, visiting key landmarks and receiving a sightseeing pass for further independent exploration. Catering: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel

Enjoy a full day at leisure to immerse yourself in the wonders of Hoi An. Stroll along the charming cobblestone streets, peruse local art galleries, or rent a bike to pedal through scenic rice paddies to Cua Dai Beach. Delight in the vibrant markets and preserved Chinese shophouses, where you can find unique paintings, ceramics, and colorful cloth lanterns. For a personal touch, visit one of the renowned tailors for a custom-made garment. Indulge in the delectable regional cuisine at a riverside restaurant or join a cooking class to learn the secrets of Vietnamese flavors. Catering: Breakfast Accommodation: Same as the previous night

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City in the early morning, a bustling metropolis rich in history and cultural significance (approx. 1.5 hours flight). Embark on a comprehensive city tour by bus, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Opera House. Gain insights into the Vietnam/American War at the thought-provoking War Remnants Museum. Immerse yourself in the captivating stories that unfolded during this tumultuous period. Catering: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on an immersive day trip to the enchanting Mekong Delta. Journey by private boat to Ben Tre, where you'll explore coconut gardens and indulge in tropical fruits and coconut jams at a local home. Glide through the serene Mekong Delta in traditional sampans, surrounded by majestic coconut trees. Experience the charm of rural life as you take a tuk-tuk tour and learn about the thriving coconut industry. Delight in a delectable lunch at a delta restaurant, savoring regional specialties like the renowned elephant ear fish. Cruise back to Ben Tre Boat Pier and return to Ho Chi Minh City by bus. In the evening, join your fellow travelers and leader for a farewell dinner, savoring the flavors of local delicacies. Catering: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Same as the previous night

Enjoy a leisurely day in Ho Chi Minh City, allowing you to explore the vibrant city at your own pace. Alternatively, immerse yourself in a gripping history lesson on guerrilla warfare with an Urban Adventures tour to the Cu Chi tunnels. These underground passages, hidden amidst the jungle, were utilized by the Viet Cong during the war. Crawl through the tunnels and gain a glimpse into the challenging daily life that unfolded beneath the surface. Return to Ho Chi Minh City for a 6 pm welcome meeting, where new travelers joining your adventure will be introduced. Afterwards, consider joining an optional group dinner to mingle with your newfound travel companions. Catering: Breakfast Accommodation: Same as the previous night Notes: Special Information As this is a combination trip, there may be changes in your travel group and leader today. You may need to transfer to a different hotel in Ho Chi Minh City for the next phase of your journey. Your leader will provide details and assist with the transfer if necessary. The welcome meeting is essential, as your new leader will collect insurance details and next of kin information. Look for a note in the lobby or inquire at the reception for the meeting location.

Embark on a scenic journey across the Vietnam-Cambodia border by public bus, meandering through picturesque rural landscapes (approximately 10 hours). Experience the charm of Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital, nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers. Delight in the splendid French-inspired architecture that graces the city. Upon arrival, quench your thirst with a refreshing mojito at the rooftop of the Foreign Correspondents' Club, or indulge in a shopping spree at the art-deco Psar Thmei (Central Market) or Psar Tuol Tom Pong (the Russian Market), offering a wide array of local souvenirs. Catering: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel Information: Special Information During the bus journey, you will exit Vietnam at Moc Bai and enter Cambodia at Ba Vet. Your leader will guide you through the border crossing procedures. Rest assured, you will remain on the same bus throughout the journey, ensuring a seamless transition. If you prefer an alternative to the bus, you have the option to book a flight (at your own expense).

Embark on a poignant journey as you delve into Cambodia's history. Begin with a guided exploration of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21), a harrowing reminder of the Khmer Rouge era. This former school-turned-torture center witnessed the suffering of over 20,000 individuals. Continue to the Choeung Ek killing fields, where a solemn stupa adorned with 8,000 human skulls stands as a testament to the victims' tragic fate. Optionally, immerse yourself in Cambodia's brighter moments by visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, or discover the mythical Wat Phnom and the fascinating Khmer Collection at the National Museum. Consider a cyclo tour, a delightful way to explore the city's highlights, including the Central Market, US Embassy, Wat Phnom, Mekong Riverfront, Independence Monument, and Royal Palace. Boarding: Breakfast Accommodation: Same as the previous night

Embark on a scenic journey to Battambang aboard a private minibus (approximately 6 hours). Along the way, make a stop at the pottery village in Kampong Chhnang, where you'll witness the art of pottery making at local workshops. Arrive in Battambang, Cambodia's second-largest city, renowned for its picturesque riverside setting, charming Khmer locals, and well-preserved colonial architecture. Consider joining an optional cooking class to unlock the secrets of delectable local dishes like amok, Khmer curry, and spicy fried chicken. Catering: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a captivating bicycle ride through the scenic countryside, venturing into the rural villages surrounding Battambang. Immerse yourself in the authentic Cambodian way of life as you visit local families engaged in traditional agricultural practices, crafting rice paper, dried bananas, and bamboo sticky rice. Take a moment to relax in a Khmer house, sipping refreshing coconut water while engaging in insightful conversations. Later, travel by private minibus to Siem Reap (approximately 3 hours), arriving in the evening. Prepare yourself for an eagerly anticipated visit to Angkor tomorrow, or satisfy your taste buds with delectable street food at the vibrant markets. Catering: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel Notes: Special Information: The bicycle ride covers a distance of approximately 24 km. If you prefer alternative transportation, inform your leader for arrangement of remork (tuk-tuk) at no additional cost. We collaborate with a remarkable local social enterprise for the cycling activity, offering training opportunities to empower local youth and support community development. Included Activity: Battambang - Rural Food and Cycle Tour

Experience the awe-inspiring morning by witnessing the majestic sunrise over Angkor Wat, reminiscent of ancient times (weather permitting). Embark on a temple-hopping adventure with your knowledgeable local guide, immersing yourself in the world-renowned Angkor complex. These temples, dating back to the ninth century, symbolize the cosmic realm and showcase impeccable balance, symmetry, and architectural mastery. Prepare to be mesmerized by the intricately carved bas-reliefs and stunning designs, offering countless opportunities for breathtaking photos. Don't miss the captivating sunrise or sunset views. While the ruins are scattered across a vast 160 square kilometers, the main cluster near Siem Reap allows ample time to explore the remarkable archaeological wonders of Angkor Wat, Bayon, and the enchanting jungle-covered Ta Prohm. Catering: Breakfast Accommodation: Same as the previous night Notes: Special Information: Cambodia's climate can be hot and humid, particularly when visiting exposed sites like the Angkor complex, with limited shade available. Stay prepared by taking frequent hydration breaks and applying suitable sun protection. Some travelers find umbrellas helpful to shield themselves from the sun.

Delve deeper into the wonders of the Angkor complex today. In the afternoon, embark on a captivating private boat journey to explore the floating villages and immerse yourself in the vibrant local life at Chhong Kneas. Located on the outskirts of Tonle Sap Lake, also known as the Great Lake of Cambodia, Chhong Kneas serves as a bustling trading port for agricultural products. Catering: Breakfast Accommodation: Same as the previous night

Embark on a scenic journey from Siem Reap to Bangkok, immersing yourself in the diverse landscapes along the way (approximately 10 hours, including border crossings and lunch). As you arrive in Thailand's vibrant capital, be captivated by the lively atmosphere filled with tuk-tuks, khlong boats, and enticing street food vendors. Before bidding farewell to your fellow travelers, indulge in the flavors of local delicacies as a final celebration. Boarding: Meals included breakfast Accommodation: Hotel Important Information: If you prefer an alternative to the bus journey, you have the option to book a flight between the two cities at your own expense. Tourism Union Indochina can assist with airport transfers as needed. Please note that due to immigration regulations, your Cambodian trip leader will guide you to the Cambodian side of the border. There, you will bid farewell and proceed through immigration independently. Upon exiting immigration, you will be greeted by one of our Thai trip leaders who will accompany you to Bangkok. Rest assured, our team is well-prepared to ensure a seamless and hassle-free transition.

Today marks the conclusion of your journey with no scheduled activities. However, if you have additional time to explore, Bangkok offers a multitude of captivating attractions such as the majestic Grand Palace, the revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the intriguing Jim Thompson museum. Catering: Meals Included Breakfast