Big Indochina Adventure (27 Days)

Kanchanaburi, an enthralling destination, awaits as we embark on an early start to make the most of the day. Join the locals and hop on Bangkok's water taxi system for a convenient journey to our first stop, The Royal Palace. Accompanied by our knowledgeable local guide, we will discover the remarkable architecture spanning 61 acres and learn about the traditions of the Thai Royal Family. Following this, we'll board our private boat for a captivating tour of the canals, where we can also indulge in fish feeding. The anticipation builds as we return to the hotel, where your Trip Manager can recommend the finest local lunch options before bidding farewell to Bangkok. While Bangkok has been a dream, our adventure continues! We now head towards the tranquil town of Kanchanaburi, opting for local transportation to keep things interesting. A boat ride along the River Kwai leads us to our enchanting accommodation for the night, The Jungle Raft Hotel in Kanchanaburi. Candlelit rooms welcome us, followed by a delightful dinner featuring local specialties at twilight. And the best part? You can even jump into the river directly from your room. Absolutely amazing! At Contiki, we always strive for unique experiences. As we witness the sunset over the landscape, we raise a toast to our first full day on this incredible journey and reflect on the wonders of life.

Awakening in a jungle paradise, we relish in a delightful breakfast while immersing ourselves in the natural beauty that surrounds us. Our day's adventure commences at Elephant Haven in Kanchanaburi, where we devote half a day to understanding the sanctuary's noble mission of rescuing and caring for these magnificent creatures. Witnessing these gentle giants peacefully thrive warms our hearts. A satisfying lunch awaits before we visit the renowned Bridge on the River Kwai, accompanied by our knowledgeable guide who imparts the historical significance of this riverside landmark. Afterwards, you have free time to explore Kanchanaburi town or simply unwind. The choice is yours!

En route to Chiang Mai, we make a captivating stop in the UNESCO-listed city of Ayutthaya, once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam until its destruction by the Burmese in the 18th century. Pedaling on bicycles, we traverse past intricate temples, majestic spires, and breathtaking palaces. Later, we embark on our overnight train journey to Chiang Mai. All aboard for an unforgettable experience!

As we awaken in the tranquil city of Chiang Mai, we have the opportunity to explore its serene charms. Delight in Buddhist rituals, marvel at traditional architecture, and relish in the idyllic countryside that captivates our hearts. The city is yours to discover and enjoy—whether it involves strolling through the old quarter or immersing yourself in the soul of the city.

Enjoy another day of freedom in this remarkable city, offering endless possibilities for exploration. Delve into the vibrant street food scene or indulge in a rejuvenating traditional Thai massage. As night falls, embrace the local experience with our exhilarating Vespa tour, discovering the city's hidden gems on two wheels.

Venturing across borders, we bid farewell to Thailand and enter Laos, where we collect our passport stamps. Our journey takes us to the enchanting town of Pakbeng, partially traversed by a scenic river cruise aboard a local boat. Immersed in remote charm and timeless traditions, Pakbeng is a true haven for travelers.

Departing from Pakbeng, we set our sights on Luang Prabang, where a splendid array of experiences awaits. Prepare to be mesmerized by breathtaking waterfalls, embark on cycling explorations, and engage with the local community, all while witnessing sacred Buddhist rituals. As our magical journey along the Mekong River draws to a close, we arrive in the beloved city of Luang Prabang. Gilded temples, historic French mansions, and saffron-robed locals converge, creating one of the most picturesque destinations in Asia. Our explorations include a sunset vista from a hilltop stupa and a delightful shopping excursion at the bustling night markets.

Embark on a refreshing city cycling adventure, followed by a rejuvenating swim beneath the majestic Kuang Si Falls, cascading down from a height of 60 meters. The majority of the day is yours to explore palaces, temples, and observe local life by the river at your own pace. Alternatively, immerse yourself in any activity that suits your preferences. As the sun sets, unwind at a riverside bar, appreciating the beauty of the moment and relishing in the tranquil ambiance that envelops you, reminding you of the blissful relaxation you've already experienced within just one week.

Early morning brings a rewarding sight as Buddhist rituals unfold, bathed in the gentle rays of the rising sun. Participate in the daily tradition of offering alms to the Monks residing in Luang Prabang's 34 temples. Later, embark on an overland journey to the lively tourist hub of Vang Vieng, known for its striking limestone karsts. While bidding farewell to the charming town of Luang Prabang may be bittersweet, the allure of Vang Vieng lies in its abundance of adventure opportunities. Explore the local rivers, delve into caves, or simply relax in the company of like-minded travelers, witnessing the sunset paint a breathtaking canvas over the mountains.

Today is yours to conquer Vang Vieng. Need some inspiration? Grab a bicycle and allow yourself to wander off the beaten path, discovering hidden swimming holes and weaving through limestone caves while observing the serene countryside of Laos come to life.

Awaken with a sense of fulfillment from your Vang Vieng explorations, ready to unravel the layers of another captivating Laos gem. Welcome to the capital city of Vientiane. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised, as this quaint town on the banks of the Mekong River exudes a relaxed vibe, in contrast to bustling Asian capitals. Alongside admiring the beauty of the Pha That Luang stupa and the artistic craftsmanship of Patuxai, we will make time to visit the COPE center, a local charity providing prosthetic limbs and rehabilitation services to individuals affected by unexploded bombs. This visit will offer insight into Laos' tumultuous history and provide an opportunity for us to extend a helping hand to the Laotian community.

This morning, we soar above the border, bidding Laos farewell as we fly towards the captivating capital of Cambodia. Phnom Penh gracefully intertwines reminders of its dark past with shy smiles and charming tree-lined streets. Led by our knowledgeable guide, we pay homage to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime at the 'Killing Fields' mass graves and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Tonight, you have the freedom to explore and immerse yourself in the city as you please.

Embarking on another included flight, we leave behind Cambodia's capital and touch down in the heartland of a majestic ancient masterpiece, still holding the title of the world's largest religious monument. You may choose to unwind by the pool this afternoon, building up energy for the evening's adventures. Siem Reap offers a plethora of experiences to spice up your night, including vibrant local night markets. However, it is wise to preserve your energy for the eagerly anticipated early morning visit to the Eighth Wonder of the World.

Be prepared for an awe-inspiring experience as we embark on a predawn journey to Angkor Wat, immersing ourselves in the mystical atmosphere of sunrise. Words cannot fully capture the sensation of witnessing the first rays of light caress this ancient spiritual site—it is simply magical. After a leisurely break and poolside relaxation at our hotel, we return to the temples to explore Angkor Thom and the enchanting Ta Prohm, a temple being slowly reclaimed by the encroaching jungle. Equipped with newfound knowledge, we visit the Tree Alliance Restaurant, a training ground for disadvantaged and former street children in hospitality skills. Their delectable menu and refreshing frozen shakes never fail to impress. With no early wake-up call on tomorrow's agenda, we can fully indulge in the lively ambiance of Pub Street and immerse ourselves in the bustling local night markets that bring the city to life.

Bid farewell to some of your fellow travelers over a hearty breakfast, but take solace in the excitement of venturing into Vietnam. With a delectable Bánh mì in one hand and a fragrant Vietnamese coffee in the other, hit the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Tonight, we'll savor a meal together and delve into the vibrant nightlife of this captivating city.

Today, we bid adieu to the fast-paced city life of Ho Chi Minh City and immerse ourselves in the charm of a more tranquil energy—a quintessential aspect of Vietnam. The Mekong Delta beckons, and as we traverse its waterways in a traditional boat, we witness the dramatic variations along its fringes. Floating markets, visits to rice paper factories, and sampling Vietnam's renowned rice whiskey await us. Our day culminates with a delightful home-cooked meal accompanied by local musicians as we settle into a cozy guesthouse for the night.

Following an early breakfast, we make our way back to Ho Chi Minh City, making a detour to explore the Cu Chi Tunnels of the Viet Cong. Experience firsthand the traps, hidden doors, and the extensive network of hand-dug tunnels spanning 250 kilometers—a testament to the resolute spirit of Vietnamese resistance fighters. Returning to the captivating chaos of Vietnam's largest city, you'll have free time to continue your explorations. Indulging in Vietnam's culinary delights would be a wise choice, among many others to make the most of your time.

With relaxation and exploration on our agenda today, the morning presents an opportunity to embark on a journey of discovery. We'll immerse ourselves in history and religion before taking flight to a coastal town that boasts scenic views of the South China Sea. Nha Trang welcomes us with its golden sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife. In the afternoon, indulge in a mineral mud bath and soak in hot thermal springs before enjoying a delightful dinner with your travel companions. Ah, the good life.

Good news! We have an extra night to spend in Nha Trang. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage, consider joining an optional cruise, or simply unwind on the beach, reserving your energy for a delightful evening at seaside bars as the sun sets.

After a quick flight to the north and a short drive along the coastline, we arrive in a captivating canal town adorned with rich beauty and ancient history. Hoi An, with its blend of Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, and European influences, exudes charm and architectural wonders. Exploring the vibrant town on bicycles, visiting ancient houses, and indulging in custom-made clothing from skilled tailors are among the activities that will add color to our day. In the evening, you can choose to participate in a Vietnamese cooking class, where you'll master the art of preparing up to four traditional dishes.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Marble Mountain, where you'll discover the essence of Vietnamese religious traditions. Explore galleries and bustling market stalls, offering the finest shopping experience in Vietnam, and indulge in a variety of irresistible delicacies. Your free day in Hoi An can be a perfect blend of cultural exploration and gastronomic delights.

Although we may have grown fond of Hoi An, it's time to continue our journey this morning. The imperial city of Hue beckons, and we'd be remiss to decline the invitation. Admire the intricate pavilions, tranquil lotus ponds, and vibrant artworks as we embark on our first sightseeing adventure in Hue. Marvel at the grandeur of the Imperial Palace, visit the awe-inspiring seven-story Thien Mu Pagoda, and gain insight into the tragic history of the Hue Buddhist massacre. Experience the city from a different perspective as we take a cyclo ride.

Today, we depart from Hue and head towards Vietnam's captivating capital. Hanoi, a harmonious blend of French, Chinese, and Vietnamese influences, awaits our arrival. Over the next two nights, prepare to be enchanted by the city's romantic ambiance. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets of the 36 trading quarters, brimming with vibrant merchandise, and find serenity in the verdant gardens of the Temple of Literature. Later, why not visit the famous Train Street for a unique egg coffee experience or enjoy the whimsical Water Puppet Theatre? Conclude the night with a few refreshing Bia Hoi beers, embracing the lively atmosphere of Hanoi.

After immersing ourselves in Hanoi's captivating history, we journey to the mesmerizing Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. A scenic drive through breathtaking landscapes will leave us in awe. Boarding a traditional Chinese junk boat, we embark on a night of tranquility amidst the limestone islands of Halong Bay. Explore hidden lagoons, lush forests, and enchanting grottos. Indulge in a delectable seafood dinner as we witness a breathtaking sunset at our docking spot. This day will be filled with unforgettable moments and No Regrets experiences.

Embrace the leisurely ambiance as we savor breakfast on the junk boat and take a moment to explore the Sung Sot Caves. Enjoy the unparalleled views that surround us. Returning to Hanoi, we prepare for our final evening together on this tour. Let's make the most of our free time, sharing a memorable family dinner and dancing the night away in Ta Hien, leaving behind tears for tomorrow and cherishing the positive energy.

Savor a final breakfast with our squad this morning as we conclude this epic Vietnam adventure. Embrace heartfelt hugs and make plans for future reunions—perhaps in Latin America?