Treasures of Indochina

Your adventure begins as you touch down in the vibrant capital city of Hanoi. Upon your arrival at the airport, your local guide will be there to greet you. They will escort you to your well-appointed hotel, where you can settle in and rejuvenate, preparing for the exciting journey that lies ahead.

Accommodation: Sofitel Legend Metropole (Premium room)

Our morning begins with a visit to the Museum of Ethnology, showcasing the diverse art and traditions of 54 ethnic groups. We then explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, and stroll through Ba Dinh Square, home to historic landmarks, including Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, and his Stilt House. We also visited the Hoa Lo Prison, known as the "Hanoi Hilton," during the Vietnam War by American POWs. You are free to enjoy the afternoon at your leisure.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Sofitel Legend Metropole (Premium room)

We depart from Hanoi in the morning and head towards the picturesque Halong Bay seaside port. Upon arrival, we board a traditional junk boat, taking a moment to acquaint ourselves with the onboard facilities. As we set sail, the first hour on the sun deck is a feast for the eyes, with breathtaking scenery unfolding before you. Our cruise continues, taking us through a charming fishing village nestled in the bay, and we'll pass by the striking limestone caves that adorn the bay's landscape. Feel the sun on your skin as you relax on the top deck, with optional onboard activities to enhance your experience. In the evening, our skilled chef will craft a delightful meal featuring fresh seafood and traditional dishes, providing a perfect end to the day.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Orchid Classic Cruises (Suite Balcony)

Greet the day on deck with a tai chi session as the sun rises, followed by breakfast in the restaurant. We spend the morning cruising through the limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay. As we return to the wharf, it's time to disembark and return to Hanoi for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling financial hub of Vietnam. Upon your arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, you'll be transferred to your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: InterContinental Saigon (Classic room)

Our day kicks off with a morning expedition to the renowned Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network spanning 156 miles, which once served as the operational headquarters for north Vietnamese forces during wartime. In the afternoon, we'll discover Ho Chi Minh's vibrant city and its key attractions. Our tour will include visits to the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, the bustling Chinatown, Binh Tay Market, and the captivating Thien Hau Temple.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: InterContinental Saigon (Classic room)

Our journey continues as we board a flight to Siem Reap, the gateway to the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat Monuments. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace, allowing you to explore this remarkable city as you wish.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Raffles Grand Hotel D'Angkor (State room)

Our day begins with a captivating visit to the renowned Angkor Thom, a fortified city crafted in the 10th century under the rule of King Jayavarman VII, one of the Khmer Empire's most illustrious rulers (1181 – 1201). Encompassing a vast area of 3.8 square miles with a population of over one million, Angkor Thom astounds with its grandeur. We enter this magnificent city through its South Gate, one of the five 65-foot high gates that span a narrow causeway across the city's moat. Flanking this causeway are 54 statues of gods on the left and 54 devils on the right, appearing to engage in a tug of war, reenacting a famous scene from the Churning Sea of Milk bas-relief. Passing through the gate, we step into the heart of Angkor Thom. From the southern gateway, our journey continues with a visit to the awe-inspiring Bayon Temple, celebrated for its remarkable construction and considered a prime example of classic Khmer architecture. The third level boasts 49 towers adorned with 172 serene faces of Avalokitesvara, creating an atmosphere of reverence and mystery. Our exploration leads us to the Royal Enclosure, where you'll encounter the Elephant Terrace, adorned with captivating depictions of elephants and an elephant hunt. Slightly to the north is another fascinating terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King, which derives its name from a sculpture of the Hindu god Yama, the god of death, discovered at the site.

Continuing our journey, we arrive at the 12th-century Preah Khan temple northeast of Angkor Thom. Constructed as a monastery and a place of learning in 1191 by Jayavarman VII, Preah Khan stands out for its remarkable religious tolerance, with dedicated sections for Buddhism, ancestor worship, and the Hindu deities Shiva and Vishnu.

Our afternoon explorations conclude at the enchanting Ta Prohm, often called the "jungle temple." Here, nature intertwines with ancient architecture as trees gracefully emerge from the ruins and the surrounding jungle, creating a mesmerizing blend of the natural world and human creation.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Raffles Grand Hotel D'Angkor (State room)

We kick off the day early to witness the enchanting sunrise over the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat. As the sun casts its first rays, imagine the bustling markets and temples coming to life centuries ago. This moment is a truly memorable experience. Following the sunrise, we'll step into the heart of Angkor Wat, experiencing it in the quietude of the early morning. With few visitors around, you'll have the sense that Angkor Wat is exclusively yours to explore. Built under the reign of Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat is an enormous religious edifice, spanning 480 acres and enclosed by a wall stretching almost four miles. The temple's five towers symbolize the five peaks of Mount Meru, regarded as the dwelling place of the gods and the epicenter of the Hindu universe. Notably, Angkor Wat's most prized sculptural treasure is the one-mile-long bas-relief that adorns the walls of the outer gallery, along with figures of Khmer Devas and Apsaras.

After this captivating experience, we will return to your hotel for a well-deserved breakfast. Post breakfast, we set out to explore Banteay Srei, the intricately carved and remarkably preserved "citadel of women." This smaller sandstone structure boasts some of Cambodia's most exquisite and masterfully crafted reliefs.

The afternoon is your time to savor at your leisure, allowing for personal exploration and relaxation.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Raffles Grand Hotel D'Angkor (State room)

Fly to the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang in Laos. Upon arrival, we will transfer you to your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel (Deluxe room)

Begin your day with a cultural tradition that has persevered throughout Luang Prabang's ever-changing history: the 'Tak Bat' daily alms-giving ceremony. This ancient Buddhist practice unfolds each morning at dawn, a timeless ritual that resonates across Laos. After breakfast, our journey continues with a boat excursion along the majestic Mekong River. Our first stop is Wat Xiengthong, a once-royal temple where the kings of Laos were traditionally crowned and bestowed with power. Its interior and exterior walls glisten with black lacquer adorned with golden figures and symbols. We then cross the Mekong River to explore the villages of Ban Xiengmene, offering a glimpse into the daily life of Laotian villages. Our next stop is Ban Chan Pottery Village, an opportunity to witness local craftsmanship.

Venture to another regal temple at Wat Longkhoun, once a sanctuary of the royal family, and nearby Sackarine Caves. Our river journey continues until we reach the Pak Ou Caves, where you'll explore the mystical caverns. Cross the Mekong River at Ban Ou and enjoy free time for a leisurely lunch.

Our return to Luang Prabang takes us through the village of Ban Xang Hai, known for creating the unique rice wine known as "lao lao." Along the way, we visit Ban Xang Khong and Ban Xienglek, renowned for their hand-weaving and crafting of Jute Sar paper.

Conclude the day with a dinner at a local restaurant.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel (Deluxe room)

Following breakfast, our day begins with a visit to Mount Phousi, the highest peak in Luang Prabang, home to a bustling Buddhist monastery. Wat Phuosi atop the mount offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the historic town, making it a fantastic vantage point. Leaving the elevated vantage point, we proceed to the National Museum, formerly the Royal Palace. This splendid palace, constructed between 1904 and 1909 during the reign of King Sisavangvong, has been transformed into a National Museum. It now houses the Lan Xang kingdom's original royal throne and a treasure trove of religious artifacts, allowing you to delve into the region's rich history and culture.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel (Deluxe room)

Today, take your private transfer to the airport for your flight to Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Peninsula Hotel (Deluxe room)

Begin your journey from your riverside hotel with a scenic boat ride along the iconic Chao Phraya River, where you will experience the vibrant local life along Bangkok's "River of Kings." Your first stop is Wat Arun, the stunning Temple of Dawn. This architectural marvel is adorned with intricate, brightly colored mosaics that are best appreciated up close. Next, cross the river to visit the Grand Palace, one of the finest examples of ancient Siamese architecture. Once the residence of the royal family, the palace complex includes several impressive buildings, such as the Funeral Palace, the Reception Palace, the Throne Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Royal Guest House, and the revered Emerald Buddha Temple.

Note: As the Grand Palace is a significant and vast complex, be sure to wear appropriate clothing covering your shoulders and knees out of respect for the cultural norms during your visit.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Peninsula Hotel (Deluxe room)

Enjoy your breakfast before we transfer you to the airport for your journey home.

Meals: Breakfast