Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand Tours: 17-Days Exploring Picturesque Southeast Asia

Itinerary

Day 1: Bangkok: An Engaging City Tour

Today, dive into the hidden treasures of Bangkok! Begin your city tour at the majestic Grand Royal Palace and explore the historic Wat Phra Kaew. Here you will witness the world-famous Emerald Buddha Statue. Afterwards, voyage along the Chao Phraya River on a long tail boat and savour the moment at Wat Arun, the temple of Dawn. In the evening, ride on a Tuk Tuk to wind through the bustling streets and sample the fantastic Pad Thai from a nearby Thai restaurant. Discover the vibrant flower market where rich aromas can be inhaled and vibrant colours admired. Greet the day with a Chef’s choice of traditional Thai dishes from a North-eastern restaurant and try out a popular Thai bar. Shangri La Bangkok is home for the night, a Deluxe Riverview Room included. Come and find the city’s secrets!

Breakfast and lunch included

Day 2: Ayutthaya and the Bang Pa-in district: Embrace an evening cruise.

Start off the day by exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ayutthaya Historical Park. Admire the various temples and interesting ruins as you wander around the old city of Ayutthaya. Afterwards, transfer to the Royal Summer Palace in Bang Pa-in district, where you can observe the stunning European style architecture. Return to the hotel and later in the day hop on board the Grand Pearl cruise, savour a scrumptious meal and admire the charming views of the Chao Phraya River while you are serenaded with live music. Spend the night at the Shangri la Bangkok in a Deluxe Riverview Room. All transportation is taken care of.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

Day 3: Samut Songkhram Province: Discover tranquil floating markets.

Take a short trip to the beautiful Samut Songkhram Province and explore its remarkable history and unique attractions. Start with the vibrant Mae Klong Railway Market and observe how the locals hastily clear their stalls each time a train departs from the station. Then, take a trip to the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and join the locals to discover an array of local cuisine. Stroll through the vibrant stalls and savour the taste of tropical fruits and many other delightful treats. The traditional beauty of the Thai countryside is spectacular and well worth a visit. On your return to Bangkok, catch a flight to Siem Reap. All transport, as well as overnight accommodation at Sofitel Angkor Siem Reap, Luxury Room, is included.

Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 4: Siem Reap: the gateway to magnificent temples.

Start your tour of Cambodia today by exploring the iconic Angkor Wat – the world’s largest religious building, known for its beauty and symbolism. Begin the day at Angkor Wat, followed by the ancient city of Angkor Thom. Explore the thousands of UNESCO World Heritage site temples at the extraordinary Angkor Wat complex and experience the rich history and culture of the region. Stop for lunch at the Royal Bathing Pool of Sra Srang, where you can sample the local cuisine and embrace the tantalising flavours. Later, visit the impressive Ta Prohm. All travel will be by remork (the Cambodian version of the Thai tuk tuk). Then head back to the Sofitel Angkor Siem Reap in time for an evening of leisure in one of their Luxury Rooms.

Please note, depending on your interests more temples can be included to make a more comprehensive visit of the ruins. The upper level of Bayon Temple on the Angkor Thom complex will be closed for restoration work until further notice. Your visit to the temple will include the lower levels and the marvellous bas-relief carvings. It is also possible to see the iconic stone faces from a distance.

Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 5: Kulen Elephant Forest

Explore one of Cambodia’s hidden gems – the Kulen Elephant Forest! This 1,100-acre protected forest sits tucked away, providing a home and comfortable retirement for the amazing Cambodian elephants. Embark on a 2km observation hike and watch the magnificent animals in their natural environment. Spend a day learning about their relationships and behaviours while you play with enrichment toys. After enjoying a traditional Khmer-style meal and festive cocktails, make your way back to Siem Reap in a shared air-conditioned vehicle. You will have some time to relax before your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. All transport is included and you can embrace a good nights rest in the Caravelle hotel with its Premium Signature Room,

Please note, for Kulen Elephant Forest Park: There is no riding of elephants! It is recommended to take comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, mosquito sprays and comfortable clothes that may get dirty. There will be a maximum group size 12 people and this is a tour with other guests. A liability form must be signed prior to arrival at the Kulen Elephant Forest.

Breakfast included

Day 6: Ben Tre Province: A Beautiful Mango Cruise

This morning you will venture south from Ho Chi Minh City on a 2-hour drive to Ben Tre Province, renowned for its coconut production and tranquil waterways. After crossing the Rach Mieu Bridge, stop by Huu Dinh hamlet. There, take a 3-wheeled motorbike (xe loi) to appreciate the picturesque scenery of rice paddies and fruit farms alongside the country lanes. Board the Mango Cruise at the waterfront; here, savour a delicious drink of fresh coconut juice and tropical fruits as you cruise through the colourful, tropical canals. Make stops at a coconut processing facility as well as a brick-making shop, where you can observe locals using time-honoured methods to make bricks by hand. Take a cycle ride for about 4 km around Phong Nam village, with a visit to the local rice noodles factory “hu tieu”. Experience Mrs. Huong’s residence, a residential household where three generations live off fishing, shrimp, and fruit orchards. After that, hop on a rowing sampan steered by your personal rower and explore the narrow canals. Make your way back to your Mango boat to the Mango at Home restaurant, where you can savour a 5-course lunch and freshen up. After, hop on a bicycle for 500m, and take a 7-10 minute amble down the village roads; admire the lush gardens as you stop at Mr. Sau Tuong’s house, a former Vietcong soldier who spent two years fighting the Khmer Rouge in Phnom Penh. Chat with him as you enjoy fresh, crispy rice paper made by his wife. Finally, return back to the pier and your van will take you back to Saigon. Arrive your hotel by afternoon and enjoy an afternoon free at leisure. Stay overnight in the Caravelle hotel, Premium Signature room

Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 7: Cu Chi tunnels: An Evening Foodie on a Vespa

Starting at 7 am, you will be picked up and taken to Bach Dang Pier for the speedboat to the Cu Chi Tunnels. In 15 minutes, you will experience the transition from city buildings to lush jungle. On the boat, you will be served a light breakfast of freshly baked pastries and local fruits, while your guide tells you about the unique aspects of the riverbank life. You will arrive to the Cu Chi Tunnels earlier than those travelling by car and have the chance to explore the underground passages, rooms, booby traps and chambers used by both Vietminh and Viet Cong. After exploring, you will be driven back to Saigon for lunch at a local restaurant by a riverside. At 1 pm, you will arrive to the pier for the shuttle back to your hotel, allowing the rest of the day to be free.

At 18.00, your Vespa rider will pick you up at the hotel and you can embrace the local nightlife and enjoy tasty food and live music as we ride vintage Vespas along the busy streets of this vibrant city. See Saigon come alive at night on this after dark adventure! Immerse yourself into the cosmopolitan nightlife of this busy city by night. Soak up the energy of this urban metropolis at a top ranking stylish rooftop venue of Saigon in a central city location where we sip on our first drinks and try out some tasty snacks while watching the tranquil sunset. Your expert driver will then zoom through the busy streets of Saigon as you check out some of the famous highlights in this bustling city. Feel like a local as we feast on authentic, fresh seafood dishes, eating street side and then enjoy the local favourite that is the delicious Banh Xeo, a traditional Vietnamese savoury pancake. We then ride off into the night again to experience live music at two very different venues. Firstly, the laid back atmosphere of quieter, softly lit coffee shop with live music before heading to another live music venue where a new generation of Vietnamese flaunt their style. All the while you will be riding pillion on vintage Vespas with your driver and guide showing you the best of Saigon nightlife. Bring a healthy appetite and a sense of adventure as our guides show you their city by night. From the stunning views of the city skyline, to the delicious local food, to the live music and the buzzing energy that comes with a Saigon night out, this tour guaranteeing an unforgettable night out that you won’t soon forget. After your memorable nightflife experience, relax in your Premium Signature room at the Caravelle Hotel.

Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 8: From Ho Chi Minh to Hoi An: An Interesting Walking Tour

Today, your guide will take you on a walking tour of Dong Khoi Catinat – a famous site from the American War, the Opera House, City Hall, and Old Saigon Post Office. After, you’ll explore the Reunification Hall, a colonial masterpiece constructed for the Governor-General of Indochina, as well as the Jade Emperor Temple, one of the top Taoist temples in Vietnam, with effigies, carved panels of the descent to Hell, and and unusual terrapin and tortoise sanctuaries. You will then return to your hotel for lunch at a local restaurant, then be taken to the airport for your flight to Danang. Your guide will greet you upon arrival in Danang and take you to Hoi An where you’ll spend the night in a 2-bedroom pool villa at Silk Sense Hoi An Resort & Spa.

Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 9: Hoi An: The Remarkable ‘My Son Sanctuary’

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel. Follow this with a drive to ‘My Son Sanctuary’ where you can view the remains of the remarkable towers built by the Chams. You will have the opportunity to explore the mysterious atmosphere of this World Heritage site and to admire the intricate red brick columns and striking figures and statues. Afterwards, take some time for a local lunch in Hoi An before embarking on a tour of the Silk Village. Here, discover ancient houses, a traditional Vietnamese mulberry garden and gain insight into the silk-making process. After, take a stroll in the ancient town to sample a variety of restaurants, bars and street food options. Transport is included and at the end of the day, sleep like a local in a two bedroom pool villa at Silk sense Hoi An Resort & Spa.

Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 10: Hoi An: From Farmer to Fisherman Tour

Start your day in peaceful relaxation and take in the beauty of the Vietnamese countryside. Cycle past rice paddies and be immersed in traditional fishing village life. Witness local farmers going about their daily activities and observe the ‘real’ Vietnam. Board a boat and take a journey down the Thu Bon Estuary, partake in entertaining activities with the local fishermen and sail through the mesmerizing Palm Coconut Canal. Before heading back to your hotel, savour a fresh seafood lunch at one of the local fishing villages. Overnight in Silk sense Hoi An Resort & Spa- 02 Bedroom Pool Villa All your transfers and transport are included. Enjoy the laid-back local life in Vietnam, as well as spectating the remarkable natural beauty.

Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 11: Hoi An to Hue: A Royal Dinner

In the morning, you’ll leave Hoi An and travel to Hue. On the way, you’ll cross the Hai Van mountain pass and have the chance to take in the beautiful views of Lang Co beach and village, the lagoon far below, and the southern city of Danang. Upon arrival in Hue, you’ll have lunch at a local restaurant and then check into your hotel for some refreshment. Your guide will then take you to the Hue’s ancient citadel, the former home of the Nguyen Dynasty which ruled Vietnam from approximately 1800 to 1945. The citadel offers many interesting sites to explore, such as the Thai Hoa Palace, the Pavilion containing the Nine Urns of the Nguyen rulers, the remains of the Royal Palaces, and a garden house. After seeing the sites, you’ll return to your hotel for some rest. For dinner, you’ll attend a special venue – an ancient house restaurant – for a theme Royal dinner, including a welcome drink with the emperor wine called Ming Mang wine. You’ll also be wearing the Royal costume for taking pictures and enjoying the well-decorated food that was once served to the Royal family. You’ll spend the night at the Azerai Hue, Deluxe room in Hue.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

Day 12: Hue to Hanoi: A Water Puppet Show

Begin your journey by transferring to Phu Bai Airport and taking a flight to Hanoi. After arriving, your guide will meet you at the airport and take you to the Melia Hotel: Premium Room. In the evening, take in a traditional water puppet show and after, explore the city at your own pace. All transport is included. Spend the night in the Melia Hotel.

Breakfast included.

Day 13: Hanoi: Street Food Discovery

Today, you will explore the unique capital of Vietnam – Hanoi. Your guide will take you to the Women’s Museum, an informative attraction composed of remarkable stories of women in the country, particularly the war. Afterward, you will head to Ngoc Ha Market, one of the biggest and liveliest markets in the city, and then you will visit the ancient Temple of Literature, the very first university of Vietnam established in the 11th century. Later, you will explore the Old Quarter of the city. A street food brunch will be provided, consisting of traditional delicacies such as Pho, Nom, Banh Goi, Banh Cuon, and Bun Cha. Afterwards, you will check in to Melia hotel at their Exclusive Level room.

Breakfast included

Day 14: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Mua Cave

Take a two-hour drive from Hanoi to Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam, and explore the two temples dedicated to Emperor Dinh and Emperor Le. After that, journey for a breath-taking sightseeing in Tam Coc, a tranquil valley surrounded by limestone ‘karst’ hills, while being rowed along the peaceful river and through the majestic caves. Enjoy a scrumptious meal in a local restaurant, followed by a visit to Mua Cave, considered as the ‘miniature Great Wall’ of Vietnam. Reach the peak of the cave and marvel at the spectacular view of Tam Coc landscape and Ninh Binh City. Spend a night at the Emeralda Ninh Binh Deluxe Room.

Breakfast and lunch included

Day 15: Ha Long Bay: An Overnight Violet Cruise.

At around 9 AM, you will take off for Ha Long Bay, a World Heritage Area and the biggest marine limestone “karst” landscape on Earth. Once there, you will board a wooden junk boat and have a scrumptious lunch served on board while exploring the World Heritage Area. Afterwards, you will pay a visit to the Cua Van floating fishing village in a small bamboo boat guided by locals. While at Tien Ong Cave, you will discover archaeological evidence of human civilization from 10,000 to 8,000 BC. The cave’s ceiling stands a mere 5 meters above sea level, is 50 meters deep, and spans 1,000 square meters. Your tour guide will provide explanations about the cave and its historical importance as you around the cavern. Afterward, you will return to your boat and sail to Lom Bo, witnessing the picturesque “blue hour”, then kick back to some relaxation with a massage, drinks at the bar, and an enjoyable Vietnamese cooking class led by your on board chef. Lunch and dinner will be served in the wood-paneled interior of your vessel. To make sure that you get to experience the Bay serenity, your route is designed to steer clear of the busier areas and you will moor for the night in a tranquil spot perfect for star gazing. (Junior Suite Cabin)

For your Ha Long excursion, you’ll board the Violet Cruise, one of the best of luxury wooden boats on the bay. All cabins are air-conditioned and have windows overlooking the bay. It features a boutique dining room, library & lounge, spa & gym and six individually themed cabins with marble bathroom, Jacuzzi & balcony. The four Suite cabins have floor area of 43 m2 including balcony, and each has a wardrobe, desk, safety box, LCD TV and DVD, mini bar, and an en-suite toilet and shower with a good selection of high-quality toiletries. Kayaking is available upon request and at a surcharge.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

Day 16: Ha Long Bay: Sundeck Tai Chi

Begin your day with an early light breakfast of pastry and tea or coffee. Afterwards, partake in a Tai Chi session on the expansive sundeck (beginners welcome!) before the boat continues towards Titop Island. When we reach there, you’ll have the option to take a refreshing morning swim on a sandy beach surrounded by towering rock formations. Alternatively, if you’d like to be more active, challenge yourself to climb up over 400 steps to the top of Titop Island for breathtaking views of Ha Long Bay (though please be aware that a minimal level of fitness and appropriate footwear is required). For those who find the climb too arduous, there’s also a viewing platform located halfway up that offers unforgettable panoramic views. After you’ve taken off the boat, you’ll be served a hearty breakfast before being transferred back to your Hanoi hotel (the Melia Hotel’s Level of Premium room). Once you arrive back in the mid-afternoon, the remainder of the day is yours to do with as you please.

Brunch included

Day 17: Hanoi discovery and departure

• Enjoy free time to explore captivating Hanoi, before being driven to the airport for your flight home.

Breakfast included.