Jewels of Indochina 27 Days

Embark on a captivating sightseeing tour of Vientiane this morning. With its charming red-roofed buildings and a blend of French and Lao influences, the city exudes a relaxed ambiance. Discover iconic landmarks such as the Victory Gate, offering panoramic views of the city, and the revered That Luang stupa, believed to house a strand of Buddha's hair. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Wat Sisaket, adorned with a remarkable collection of Buddha images. The afternoon is yours to delve deeper into Vientiane's treasures. Consider a visit to the Buddha Park, a sprawling green oasis displaying enchanting Buddhist and Hindu statues. Alternatively, explore the thought-provoking COPE Museum, shedding light on the impact of unexploded ordinance from the Vietnam War and the inspiring work of the COPE foundation. This insightful experience provides a deeper understanding of this captivating country.

Embark on a scenic three to four-hour drive to the picturesque town of Vang Vieng. En route, enjoy fascinating stops, including a visit to the Sa paper project, where traditional paper is crafted from Mulberry Tree bark. Arriving in Vang Vieng, the afternoon is free for you to immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings. We recommend taking a leisurely stroll along the riverbank to witness a captivating sunset. Find a cozy spot and watch as the sun dips behind the majestic mountains, painting the sky with a fiery orange hue. Don't forget to capture the magical moments with your camera.

Embrace the idyllic charm of Vang Vieng, nestled alongside the enchanting Nam Song river amidst picturesque rice paddies and towering limestone cliffs. Formerly known as a backpacker party destination, Vang Vieng now offers a haven for adventure seekers of all levels. Today, you have the freedom to choose from a range of optional activities. Embark on a guided walk through verdant rice paddies to visit nearby minority villages, venture into the underground labyrinth of a 2km cave network, or embark on a kayaking expedition along the tranquil Nam Song river. The choice is yours to create your own unforgettable Vang Vieng experience.

Embark on a breathtaking full-day journey north to the captivating city of Luang Prabang. As we traverse through the mountainous region of central Laos, the road reveals charming villages clinging to the mountainside and awe-inspiring vistas from high passes. Regular breaks provide opportunities to visit a Hmong village for refreshments and capture stunning photos atop the passes. Arriving in Luang Prabang in the late afternoon, immerse yourself in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by lush hills and the confluence of the Khan and Mekong rivers. French colonial influences add a unique charm to the city, with grand Indochinese villas harmonizing with golden temples at every turn. Take a moment to sip Lao coffee, sit outside a local café, and simply observe the unhurried pace of life in true Lao style. In the evening, embark on a walk to Mount Phousi, climbing 328 steps to witness a mesmerizing sunset and panoramic views over the city and beyond.

Today, we delve deeper into the wonders of Luang Prabang. The city's main attractions are conveniently located close together, allowing us to explore on foot. Marvel at the magnificent temples, including the resplendent Wat Xieng Thong, adorned with vibrant red and gold designs, intricate tiled roofs, and mosaic dragon motifs. Visit Wat Sen and the Royal Palace Museum to further immerse ourselves in the rich cultural heritage. Later, board a traditional long-tail boat for a short journey along the Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves. Ascend limestone cliffs, climbing steps to reach the sacred Buddhist shrine. Despite being uninhabited by monks, the caves house altars for incense burning, flower offerings, and countless Buddha images in various shapes and sizes. After returning to Luang Prabang, the rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Embark on a scenic bus ride from Luang Prabang to the enchanting Kuang Si Waterfalls, a 45-minute journey. Passing through forested hills and charming ethnic minority villages, we reach the captivating limestone falls, cascading into mesmerizing turquoise pools. After enjoying the natural beauty, we return to Luang Prabang. In the afternoon, you have the option to embark on a bicycle trip to the Lao Loum village at Ban Phanom. Cycling approximately 6 km from Luang Prabang, we traverse picturesque cultivated landscapes and arrive at the well-preserved village situated along the banks of the Nam Khan River. Engage with the friendly locals and gain insights into rural Lao life before heading back to Luang Prabang, where you can savor a well-deserved Beer Lao.

Spend the morning at leisure, allowing for further exploration of the captivating Luang Prabang. In the afternoon, we take a flight to Hanoi, Vietnam. In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Quarter as we stroll through bustling streets and lively markets. The shops, known locally as 'tube' shops, may have narrow frontages but extend deep into the buildings. On the pavements, food vendors sell an array of noodles, snacks, and stir-fries from their shoulder panniers, creating a delightful sensory experience.

Embark on a guided tour of Hanoi's main attractions. The city's architectural style, reminiscent of a French provincial town, boasts tree-lined boulevards and charming low-built houses that exude nostalgia. Marvel at the charming One-Pillar Pagoda, Confucius Temple, and the Presidential Palace. Discover Ho Chi Minh's simple teak stilt-house, where he chose to reside instead of the Presidential Palace. In the afternoon, wander through the narrow lanes of the captivating Old Quarter, where streets are named after crafts and specialties. Experience the vibrant ambiance as food vendors sell delectable noodles and stir-fries from their shoulder panniers, mingling the enticing aromas with the incense from small temples scattered around.

Savor some free time in Hanoi this morning, allowing for visits to intriguing museums or the austere mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, reminiscent of Moscow's Lenin Mausoleum. Later, we embark on a drive towards the iconic Halong Bay, where thousands of limestone islands emerge from the jade green waters like the scales of a submerged dragon. Legend has it that the striking seascape was sculpted by a dragon's powerful tail as it descended into the sea, leaving behind a trail of majestic islands.

Immerse yourself in the romantic scenery of Halong Bay this morning on a captivating cruise among the islands. Pause at a grotto nestled beneath towering cliffs and perhaps enjoy a beach visit. Witness the captivating sight of tourist boats, traditional junks, and wooden sampans gliding through the tranquil waters. Indulge in a delightful seafood lunch aboard the boat before returning to a hotel in Hanoi to freshen up. Later, board the Reunification Express for an overnight train journey to Hue.

Arrive in Hué, a cultural and religious gem of Vietnam. Tranquil and imposing, the city is graced by the enchanting Perfume River, a timeless muse for poets and painters. Embark on a serene boat trip along the Perfume River from Hué to the Thien Mu Pagoda, the city's oldest temple and its symbolic landmark.

Uncover Hué's captivating history with a visit to the Imperial Citadel. Situated on the river's left bank, this palace complex was built by the Nguyen dynasty, Vietnam's ruling emperors from the 1800s to 1945. The Citadel's grand moats and impressive ramparts, modeled after Beijing's Forbidden City, were constructed by a workforce of 20,000 men. While much of the inner city was destroyed during the Tet Offensive in 1968, the remaining outer walls and west wing stand as a poignant testament to the palace's former magnificence. The rest of the day is yours to explore the nearby Tombs of the Emperors or indulge in further leisurely pursuits.

Embark on an early morning option to visit the serene Tu Hieu Pagoda, nestled amidst a pine forest just outside the city. Experience the morning chanting and participate in a meditation lesson led by the head monk. Gain insights into the central role of meditation in Buddhism, fostering inner peace and mental well-being. Our journey continues with a scenic drive across the breathtaking Hai Van Pass, also known as the Col des Nuages, offering picturesque views of rural landscapes adorned with thatched houses and vibrant green rice paddies. En route, we stop in Danang to explore the Cham Museum, showcasing an impressive collection of Cham sculptures. Nearby, the Marble Mountains beckon with their five peaks symbolizing the elements. These natural formations house intricately carved Buddhist sanctuaries within their grottoes. Before reaching Hoi An, we pause at the beautiful white sands of My Khe Beach, known as China Beach during the American War. Finally, we arrive at our destination, the UNESCO World Heritage town of Hoi An.

Discover the historical charm of Hoi An, once a bustling international trading port in Southeast Asia during the 17th and 18th centuries. The town's well-preserved old buildings offer a glimpse into its rich merchant heritage. Today is free for you to explore at your own pace. Visit the iconic Japanese Bridge, wander through the enchanting Old Town, or delve into the captivating Chinese temples and meeting halls. Indulge in shopping for unique souvenirs, delight in delectable cuisine at local bars and restaurants, or simply soak in the vibrant ambiance of a riverside café. As an option, you may choose to embark on a poignant excursion to the My Lai village massacre memorial, a significant historical event during the American War. Through a compelling photographic exhibition, learn about the tragic events that unfolded and their lasting impact.

Today, we embark on a captivating excursion to My Son, the sacred Cham site that holds great historical significance. The Cham people, who established their own kingdom in the 2nd century AD, defied Chinese authority and thrived through strong maritime connections with Southeast Asia. Despite facing challenges from the Vietnamese and Chinese for a millennium, they showcased their remarkable masonry skills in the intricately crafted Cham temples at My Son. Although some parts of the site were affected by bombings in the 1960s, its splendor remains. After the visit, the afternoon is yours to further explore and enjoy the charms of Hoi An. Relax on the nearby beach or revel in a delightful boat trip along the river, basking in the enchanting hues of the setting sun.

After a short drive to Danang Airport, we board a flight to vibrant Ho Chi Minh City. From there, we journey south to the captivating Ben Tre in the Mekong Delta, an area teeming with lush landscapes, quaint villages, and graceful coconut palms. A local ferry takes us to a nearby village, where we immerse ourselves in the local culture by exploring the surroundings on a traditional trishaw. Later, we continue our exploration by boarding sampans, traditional Chinese wooden boats, and glide along the narrow canals that branch off from the mighty Mekong River. After a delicious lunch at a local house, you have some free time to delve deeper into the area's wonders. Finally, we return to Ben Tre by boat and spend the night in a cozy homestay with shared facilities and dorm-style accommodation.

This morning, we embark on a captivating cruise through the intricate canals of the Mekong Delta, where we have the opportunity to meet hardworking locals and witness coconut processing and trading. For those seeking further exploration, walking or cycling along the canals unveils even more hidden gems. In the afternoon, we make our way back to Ho Chi Minh City, bidding farewell to the serene Mekong Delta.

Begin the day with a leisurely walk through the charming sights of Old Saigon, now known as District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City. Marvel at architectural gems like Notre Dame Cathedral, the GPO building, and the iconic French Colonial hotels, such as The Rex. Our journey continues to the Independence Palace, renamed the Reunification Hall, and the poignant War Remnants Museum. In the afternoon, you have the freedom to further explore the city at your own pace. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the bustling Ben Thanh market, a shopper's paradise.

Embark on a short drive outside the city this morning to the renowned Cu Chi Tunnels, a remarkable underground command base that housed 10,000 Viet Cong troops and played a crucial role in the 1968 Tet Offensive. This site offers a captivating glimpse into the resourcefulness and resilience of the Vietnamese. For those feeling adventurous, there is an opportunity to crawl through a specially adapted section of the tunnels to experience the claustrophobic conditions the Viet Cong endured. After bidding farewell to our tour leader, who returns to Ho Chi Minh City, we continue our journey by road into Cambodia. We proceed through border formalities at the Moc Bai (Vietnam) and Bavet (Cambodia) crossing point. Our final destination for the day is Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia.

Embark on a guided tour of Phnom Penh, Cambodia's vibrant capital. Admire the city's French colonial architecture as we visit the National Museum, home to a remarkable collection of well-preserved carvings from Angkor. Discover the grandeur of the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, as well as the spiritual sanctuary of Wat Phnom. In the afternoon, we delve into the haunting history of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former school turned Khmer Rouge torture and interrogation center. Pay respects at the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, a somber memorial adorned with a glass tower filled with human skulls, serving as a chilling reminder of Pol Pot's atrocities.

Enjoy a day at your own pace to further explore Phnom Penh or venture beyond the city. Consider joining an optional excursion to Silk Island (Koh Dach), accessible by a short ferry ride along the Mekong River. Immerse yourself in the island's traditional way of life, interact with locals, and learn about the iconic art of silk weaving. Alternatively, you can opt for a visit to Chiso Mountain, offering stunning views and the ruins of an ancient Khmer temple, or explore the abandoned Royal City of Oudong, known for its historic temples and stupas. These half-day excursions can be combined based on your preferences, and your tour leader will provide further details.

Embarking on an early start, we journey towards Siem Reap, with a delightful stop for lunch along the way. In the afternoon, we venture to the captivating Tonle Sap Lake. Here, we board a chartered boat and leisurely cruise through the enchanting floating village of Chong Kneas, immersing ourselves in the stilt houses, vibrant floating markets, and the colorful array of boats.

Over the next three days, our itinerary may be adjusted by our knowledgeable local guide for optimal experiences (to avoid crowds, align with sunset views, and more). Angkor, a magnificent complex of stone temples and sculptures, was once a thriving city built by the Khmer kings from the 9th to the 13th centuries. Spanning 155 square kilometers, it boasts awe-inspiring carvings, elegant sculptures, and extraordinary bas-reliefs. Our exploration begins with a visit to the ancient temples of the Roluos group, showcasing the earliest architectural wonders. In the afternoon, we delve into the beauty of Banteay Srei, a small yet exquisite temple renowned for its intricate carvings. Finally, we conclude the day at East Mebon, where we witness the captivating sunset at Pre Rup temple.

Continuing our journey, we delve into the temples of King Jayavarman VII, renowned as Angkor's greatest ruler. The majestic Angkor Thom, a fortified city built in the late 12th century, stands enclosed by a square wall adorned with grand gates featuring stone elephant trunks. Guarded by statues of 54 different gods, this city reveals its treasures, including the captivating Bayon temple with its intricate corridors, gothic towers, and central sanctuaries. We'll also discover the Terrace of the Elephants and the Leper King, as well as surrounding temples like Preah Khan. Please note that the third tier of the Bayon Temple will be closed for restoration, but the lower tiers remain accessible, allowing us to appreciate the impressive bas-reliefs and intricate carvings.

On our final day, we visit the second Angkor capital, home to the alluring temples of Prasat Kravan, Banteay Kdei, and Takeo. An unforgettable highlight is our visit to the atmospheric Ta Prohm temple, famously featured in the film Tomb Raider, where nature and ancient architecture intertwine in a captivating manner. Lastly, we save the most iconic and breathtaking sight for the end – Angkor Wat, where we stay until sunset, bidding farewell to our extraordinary adventure.

After breakfast at our Siem Reap hotel, our tour comes to a close. There are no planned activities for today, allowing you the freedom to depart at your preferred time. If your flight is later in the day, you can take advantage of luggage storage facilities at the hotel. For a last-minute shopping spree, the old market offers bargains, or you may indulge in afternoon tea at The Foreign Correspondent's Club. Complimentary airport transfers are available for departures from Siem Reap International Airport (REP), located just 20 minutes away from the hotel.