Kingdoms of Southeast Asia 19 Days

Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Hanoi, where a blend of old-world charm and modern vitality awaits. Explore the city's captivating streets adorned with French colonial architecture and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the bustling Old Quarter.

Embark on a morning city tour of Hanoi, uncovering the historical gems of the city. Visit Ba Dinh Square and delve into the rich heritage of the Temple of Literature. Traverse the enchanting streets of the Old Quarter, adorned with ancient temples and pagodas, and indulge in a delightful food tour, savoring iconic Vietnamese dishes such as banh mi and pho. Relax at a rooftop café, sipping coffee while admiring the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake. In the evening, gather with fellow travelers for a warm welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Immerse yourself in the morning tranquility of Hanoi by joining locals in a tai chi session at a picturesque park. Then, venture to the renowned Hoa Lo Prison, known as the "Hanoi Hilton," now transformed into a museum that offers a unique perspective on Vietnam's colonial history. Engage in a heartfelt conversation with a local Vietnam War veteran, connecting with their personal experiences. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure, with the option to indulge in a captivating water puppet show followed by a delightful dinner.

Embark on a journey to the breathtaking Ha Long Bay, where you'll step aboard a charming junk boat for an enchanting overnight cruise. Sail through a mesmerizing landscape of lush green mountains, quaint villages, and countless limestone islands. Witness the marvels of nature, history, and archaeology as you disembark to explore. Surrender to the tranquility of the boat, as its gentle sway and soothing sounds lull you into a restful sleep.

Kick-start your day with a serene Tai Chi session on the sundeck, greeting the sunrise. After a light breakfast, we embark on an exploration of Sung Sot Cave, one of the captivating limestone grottos nestled within the UNESCO World Natural Heritage site of Halong Bay. Bid farewell to this breathtaking marvel of nature and return to the mainland. Fly to Da Nang and make your way to Hoi An, an enchanting ancient trading port recognized by UNESCO.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hoi An. Climb aboard a traditional basket boat and embark on a captivating journey along the Co Co River for an immersive cooking class. Experience the thrill of catching seafood in the river and grinding rice into fragrant flour. With your fresh ingredients, master the art of preparing four classic dishes, which will be savored during a delightful lunch. Later, embark on a leisurely walking tour of the old town, passing by the intricate Chinese-style Phuc Kien Assembly Hall and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, which boasts a remarkable history of 400 years. Conclude your tour at the vibrant market situated on the banks of the Thu Bon River.

Indulge in a full day of leisure to immerse yourself in the enchantment of Hoi An. Stroll along the picturesque canals that meander through the Ancient Town, where a tapestry of preserved history seamlessly blends with modern life. Perhaps you'll explore an art gallery, delve into a cultural museum, or indulge in some shopping to find that perfect memento.

Bid farewell to Hoi An and take a flight to Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant capital formerly known as Saigon. Embark on a captivating city tour, where you'll witness iconic landmarks such as the Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral*, and the Reunification Palace. Continue your exploration as you browse through a plethora of local treasures at the Old Market in District 1.

Embark on a memorable journey along the legendary Mekong Delta. Cruise along its waterways while your guide unravels the rich history and culture of the region. Visit a coconut candy factory to witness the craftsmanship behind this beloved confection. Indulge in a delectable lunch featuring authentic southern Vietnamese cuisine before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

Spend your morning exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate maze of underground passages used as hideouts by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure in the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City before delighting in a flavorsome dinner at a local restaurant.

This afternoon, take a flight to Siem Reap, the captivating gateway to Cambodia's remarkable Angkor. Immerse yourself in a world where colonial and Chinese influences blend seamlessly, creating a vibrant urban landscape and a tantalizing culinary scene. Tonight, savor a delightful dinner at a local restaurant while being enthralled by a traditional Khmer dance performance.

Embark on a sunrise adventure to the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, an exquisite embodiment of classic Khmer architecture. Enter through the eastern gate and exit from the west, witnessing the enchanting play of sunlight upon the ancient stones. Discover the captivating Ta Prohm, a sprawling monastic complex embraced by the lush embrace of the jungle. Explore Angkor Thom, the final capital of the Khmer empire, and admire the Terrace of the Leper King, the Baphuon Temple, and the majestic Bayon Temple, all remarkable masterpieces from the 11th and 12th centuries nestled at the heart of the city.

Embark on a meaningful morning at the APOPO Visitor Center, where extraordinary "hero rats" are trained to detect landmines, saving lives in the process. Witness a demonstration and gain insights into the country's war-torn history. Journey to the village of Preah Dak to immerse yourself in local life and witness the creation of Nom Banh Jok, traditional rice noodles. Delve into the vibrant palm sugar market, where the sap of trees is transformed into delicious sugar. Visit Les Chantiers Ecoles, a hub for apprentices mastering fine arts, and explore various workshops showcasing sculpture and carving. Conclude your day with a captivating visit to Phare, the Cambodian Circus.

Connect with the local community at the JWOC Community Center and learn about their ongoing projects. Later, board a flight to Luang Prabang, the spiritual capital of Laos. Familiarize yourself with the city accompanied by your guide. Then, it's your choice! Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the outdoor markets at night -OR- enjoy a relaxed evening at the hotel.

Embark on a tuk-tuk adventure with your guide, exploring the city center and visiting the National Museum, once the Royal Palace. Marvel at the intricate gold decorations of Wat Xieng Thong monastery. Stroll along the Nam Khan River to Wat Khili, immersing yourself in the local culture and history. After a delightful lunch, embark on a cruise to the enigmatic Pak Ou Caves, housing thousands of sacred Buddha statues. Conclude your day with a warm home-hosted dinner and a traditional Baci ceremony, a cherished celebration of life's significant moments.

Start your day with a captivating traditional alms offering to local monks, or enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel. Embark on a fascinating journey to Ban Long Lao, a charming Hmong hill tribe village, where you'll gain insight into their unique culture and way of life. Embark on a scenic hike through lush jungles and breathtaking mountain vistas to reach the enchanting Kuang Si Waterfall. Indulge in a picnic lunch amidst nature's beauty before returning to Luang Prabang. In the afternoon, you have the option to join a tour and witness the artistry of Laotian weavers.

Fly to Bangkok, the captivating capital of Thailand. This vibrant city, nestled along the Chao Phraya River, offers a harmonious blend of cosmopolitan flair and rich historical heritage. In the evening, join your fellow travelers on a delightful Klong dinner cruise, raising a toast to the end of your remarkable adventure.

Bid farewell to the enchanting kingdoms of Southeast Asia as you return home, cherishing the precious memories of your incredible journey.