Scenic Thailand and Vietnam In 13 Days

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, get ready for pick-up. Embark on an immersive journey through the vibrant streets of Bangkok. Our first stop is Wat Traimit, an exquisite temple located in the heart of China Town. Witness the awe-inspiring sight of the immense solid gold Buddha, weighing an astounding 5.5 tons. Next, we will visit Wat Po, renowned for its magnificent 45-meter reclining Buddha statue and being the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. Continue to explore The Royal Grand Palace, an iconic national landmark that holds great reverence. Discover its various halls, including the Coronation Hall, Funeral Hall, and Royal Guest House, as well as the revered Emerald Buddha, an enigmatic and sacred symbol of Thailand. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Overnight in Bangkok.

Upon your arrival at Chiang Rai Airport, our driver will warmly welcome you and accompany you on a brief sightseeing tour. Explore the captivating beauty of Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple, with its extraordinary kapok architecture. Afterward, transfer to your hotel. In the evening, visit the local night bazaar or night market, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Overnight in Chiang Rai.

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, check out and embark on a scenic drive to Sop Ruak, also known as the Golden Triangle. Witness the breathtaking convergence of the Mekong River, where Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand meet. Explore the Hall of Opium (closed on Mondays), a captivating museum that sheds light on the area's history and its connection to the opium trade. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Following lunch, continue your journey to Chiang Mai.

Today, indulge in leisure time to explore the wonders of Chiang Mai at your own pace or choose an optional tour. OPTIONAL TOUR: HALF DAY ELEPHANT SANCTUARY WITH LUNCH Morning Visit: 06:30-12:30 Embark on a scenic 1.5-hour drive south of Chiang Mai, immersing yourself in rolling hills, forests, and local farming areas. Arrive at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary around 08:30. Gain insights into elephant conservation, change into traditional Karen clothing, and prepare medicine for the elephants. Interact with the elephants in their natural environment, feeding them, giving them medicine, and playing with them. Learn about their behavior and history while capturing memorable photos. Experience a mud spa with the elephants at 09:45, followed by a refreshing bath in the river while walking alongside these gentle giants. Indulge in a traditional meal before bidding farewell to the elephants. Depart the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary around 12:00 and enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive back to Chiang Mai. PRICE: $171 USD per person (minimum 2 participants). Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel. Take advantage of your free time until your private transfer (accompanied by an English-speaking guide) to Chiang Mai International Airport for your flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival, our driver will be waiting for you at Noi Bai International Airport to transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at your leisure.

Hanoi, the colonial capital city, captivates with its tree-lined boulevards, French colonial architecture, serene lakes, and ancient pagodas and temples. AM: 7.45 – 8.15: Enjoy a complimentary pick-up from your hotel. Begin your city tour by visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can explore the architectural and historical significance of Uncle Ho's final resting place. Next to it lies Ho Chi Minh's house on stilts, while the One Pillar Pagoda, founded in 1049 by King Ly Thai To, stands nearby as an important symbol of Hanoi. Continue to the Tran Quoc Pagoda, a Buddhist temple situated by West Lake. Delight in a delectable lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, proceed to visit the Ethnology Museum (available on Sun, Tue, Thu & Sat), the Literature Temple, which houses Vietnam's first university established in 1070. The well-preserved architecture and serene gardens offer a glimpse into Vietnam's rich history. Pass by Hoan Kiem Lake to admire its tranquil waters and the beauty of Ngoc Son Temple. Conclude your exploration of Hanoi's Old Quarter and return to your accommodation for relaxation. Overnight in Hanoi.

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, the Cruise team will warmly greet you. Embark on the most picturesque route to Halong Bay, passing through the captivating Red River Delta adorned with vibrant emerald rice paddies stretching as far as the eye can see. Upon arrival in Halong, prepare to be amazed as you cruise along the bay, immersing yourself in the beauty of limestone rocks and enchanting karst grottoes. Once you have explored the bay to your heart's content, savor a delectable seafood lunch. Afterwards, visit the renowned limestone cave, where you can engage in kayaking or swimming, allowing you to intimately experience the floating villages and shops. As the evening approaches, return to the boat for an early dinner, followed by leisure time. You can choose to participate in onboard activities or simply unwind and relax. Overnight on the cruise.

Awake early for a revitalizing Tai Chi lesson or simply enjoy a hearty breakfast. The boat will gracefully navigate back to the port, making a stop at the captivating Limestone Cave adorned with fascinating stalagmites and stalactites. From here, the journey continues effortlessly back to the main harbor, with an estimated arrival time in Hanoi around 17:00. Enjoy your leisure time. Overnight in Hanoi.

Indulge in a delicious breakfast at the hotel and enjoy your leisure time until your private transfer takes you to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Begin your day with a scrumptious breakfast before embarking on an enchanting journey to the Mekong Delta. You'll be warmly greeted by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide and skilled driver, who will accompany you to My Tho, a charming town situated on the left bank of the Mekong River. Hop aboard a sampan and cruise along the river, admiring the picturesque Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise islands. Pause at Unicorn Island to stroll along country lanes, explore orchards, sample tropical fruits, and enjoy folk songs performed by local artists. Visit a fruit plantation and embark on a serene hand-rowed sampan ride through the Thoi Son canal, immersing yourself in the scenic countryside. Discover family workshops, a honey-bee farm, and savor the flavors of honey tea and coconut candies. Delight in a traditional Vietnamese meal and optionally pedal around Tan Thach village, interacting with local villagers and experiencing the daily life of the Mekong Delta. Alternatively, relax in a hammock, basking in the gentle breeze. Conclude the tour by returning to your accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh.

Embark on an insightful journey as you are accompanied by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located in the serene countryside near Ho Chi Minh City. The tunnels, a remarkable feat of engineering, served as a hidden network during the war, stretching across vast distances and providing crucial facilities for the resilient residents. Explore meeting rooms, kitchens, and triage areas, gaining a deep understanding of the relentless struggle against invading forces. Experience the tunnels' living conditions and savor the traditional manioc, a staple food for the guerilla warriors. For an added thrill, visit the nearby shooting range and try your hand at firing AK47s, MK16s, or machine guns. After this captivating experience, enjoy a comfortable transfer back to your accommodation. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh.

Savor a delightful breakfast on your final day of the trip. Take this opportunity to relax and reflect on your memorable journey before being transferred by a professional driver to Tan Son Nhat International Airport. Bid farewell to Vietnam as you board your flight back to your homeland.