Day 1. Arrive in Hanoi, Vietnam
Overnight – Capella Hanoi
Once upon a time, a modern jetliner landed at Vietnam Airport.
Your arrival and departure transfers can be reserved with your guest relations manager, who is assigned to you after you book your tour. We strongly recommend that our guests consider arriving a day earlier, as this allows you to recuperate from jetlag, and serves as insurance against international flight delays and cancellations. An additional night’s lodging at the (completely redesigned by Bill Bensley) historic Capella Hanoi, the city’s best hotel, can be added as part of the process as you reserve your tour.
If you are arriving a day earlier, your airport to hotel transfer will be provided a day earlier.
Our services begin with your luxury VIP greeting as you disembark at Hanoi airport. You are greeted as soon as you exit your plane and you will now be escorted through the complete arrival process, including immigration, baggage claim, and customs, and then you will be met by a Trehan Journeys Travel Facilitator or your Accompanying Vietnam Tour Director. You are then driven to your boutique luxury hotel where you will check-in if it is after 3pm. If your arrival is before 3pm, you can drop your bags off and use the facilities to freshen up, unless you have requested an additional day’s stay.
Your historic luxury hotel is the only such lodging in this city and its elegant interior is a delightful French-Vietnamese presentation of art, focusing on its earlier incarnation as the home of opera stars and visiting dignitaries. It has an enviable location in the iconic Old Quarter of Hanoi, and major attractions, great restaurants, cafes and bars, as well as the vibrant street scene, are just a few steps away, but not in any way intrusive. Hanoi is one of the world’s most fascinating cities to explore on foot, with an exceptionally vibrant street food scene, and its Old Quarter is always abuzz with activity and has an amazing energy that is near impossible to resist. Located on the banks of the Red River, Vietnam’s capital is a stylish and gracious city that retains a unique old-world charm and has some of Asia’s most striking colonial architecture.
Once upon a time, a modern jetliner landed at Vietnam Airport.
Your arrival and departure transfers can be reserved with your guest relations manager, who is assigned to you after you book your tour. We strongly recommend that our guests consider arriving a day earlier, as this allows you to recuperate from jetlag, and serves as insurance against international flight delays and cancellations. An additional night’s lodging at the (completely redesigned by Bill Bensley) historic Capella Hanoi, the city’s best hotel, can be added as part of the process as you reserve your tour.
If you are arriving a day earlier, your airport to hotel transfer will be provided a day earlier.
Our services begin with your luxury VIP greeting as you disembark at Hanoi airport. You are greeted as soon as you exit your plane and you will now be escorted through the complete arrival process, including immigration, baggage claim, and customs, and then you will be met by a Trehan Journeys Travel Facilitator or your Accompanying Vietnam Tour Director. You are then driven to your boutique luxury hotel where you will check-in if it is after 3pm. If your arrival is before 3pm, you can drop your bags off and use the facilities to freshen up, unless you have requested an additional day’s stay.
Your historic luxury hotel is the only such lodging in this city and its elegant interior is a delightful French-Vietnamese presentation of art, focusing on its earlier incarnation as the home of opera stars and visiting dignitaries. It has an enviable location in the iconic Old Quarter of Hanoi, and major attractions, great restaurants, cafes and bars, as well as the vibrant street scene, are just a few steps away, but not in any way intrusive. Hanoi is one of the world’s most fascinating cities to explore on foot, with an exceptionally vibrant street food scene, and its Old Quarter is always abuzz with activity and has an amazing energy that is near impossible to resist. Located on the banks of the Red River, Vietnam’s capital is a stylish and gracious city that retains a unique old-world charm and has some of Asia’s most striking colonial architecture.
Once upon a time, a modern jetliner landed at Vietnam Airport.
Your arrival and departure transfers can be reserved with your guest relations manager, who is assigned to you after you book your tour. We strongly recommend that our guests consider arriving a day earlier, as this allows you to recuperate from jetlag, and serves as insurance against international flight delays and cancellations. An additional night’s lodging at the (completely redesigned by Bill Bensley) historic Capella Hanoi, the city’s best hotel, can be added as part of the process as you reserve your tour.
If you are arriving a day earlier, your airport to hotel transfer will be provided a day earlier.
Our services begin with your luxury VIP greeting as you disembark at Hanoi airport. You are greeted as soon as you exit your plane and you will now be escorted through the complete arrival process, including immigration, baggage claim, and customs, and then you will be met by a Trehan Journeys Travel Facilitator or your Accompanying Vietnam Tour Director. You are then driven to your boutique luxury hotel where you will check-in if it is after 3pm. If your arrival is before 3pm, you can drop your bags off and use the facilities to freshen up, unless you have requested an additional day’s stay.
Your historic luxury hotel is the only such lodging in this city and its elegant interior is a delightful French-Vietnamese presentation of art, focusing on its earlier incarnation as the home of opera stars and visiting dignitaries. It has an enviable location in the iconic Old Quarter of Hanoi, and major attractions, great restaurants, cafes and bars, as well as the vibrant street scene, are just a few steps away, but not in any way intrusive. Hanoi is one of the world’s most fascinating cities to explore on foot, with an exceptionally vibrant street food scene, and its Old Quarter is always abuzz with activity and has an amazing energy that is near impossible to resist. Located on the banks of the Red River, Vietnam’s capital is a stylish and gracious city that retains a unique old-world charm and has some of Asia’s most striking colonial architecture.
Day 2. Hanoi
Overnight – Capella Hanoi
Start your exploration of Vietnam’s capital with a visit to the Temple of Literature. Built in 1070 as a Confucian temple and school, this complex became Vietnam’s first university six years later. Multiple courtyards, water tanks, temples, and unique architecture are what you will notice first. A unique sight here is 82 large stone slabs (with large tortoise shaped bases of stone) that have the names and other details of doctoral laureates of the university from 1442 to 1779. It is common to see local students at the temple in school groups throughout the year, and large groups of them are here dressed in their finest during graduation periods. Walk around the complex and its gardens and explore several temples housing beautiful statues of the university’s founders and greatest scholars.
Next up is the impressive Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex. This site is highly revered by the North Vietnamese, and consists of several structures, including Uncle Ho’s (Ho Chi Minh) modest house on stilts, and of course the iconic mausoleum itself. This granite structure stands prominently above the parade area and grandstand at a height of 70 feet and is surrounded by meticulously maintained lawns and gardens. Please note that we do not recommend viewing the preserved body of Ho Chi Minh, housed inside, as this requires a 45 minute (minimum) wait in line, and no photos are allowed. Next to the mausoleum is the beautiful Presidential Palace, built between 1900 and 1906 as the French Governor General of Indochina’s residence. The Palace is not open to the public, but you can stop here for a photo opportunity of the front left profile of the structure, as well as its beautiful gardens. Ho Chi Minh refused to live in the palace and had a simple home on stilts built in the gardens, which you will walk through to admire its simplicity and austerity.
Return to the old quarter and break for lunch. After lunch you will experience a guided walk through the fascinating old quarter. When Hanoi was much smaller, this area was the residential, commercial, and manufacturing hub. Each street was dedicated to locals practicing a particular trade, and this practice has continued until today, except the fact that there are far more street food outlets and cafes, adding even more color to an already fascinating sight. Your Tour Director will walk you through streets such as Hand Dong street (copper wares street) Hang Tre street (bamboo wares street), and so on. Some streets have names referring to trades no longer practiced, such as Hang Buom street (sails street), and are now focused solely on Vietnamese candy and cakes. There are streets full of flower decorators and sellers, and many of the streets still have temples, pagodas, and communal structures from old times.
Day 3. Hanoi
Overnight – Capella Hanoi
Start your day with a visit to a residential Hanoi district seldom experienced by foreigners. You will feel like you have traveled back in time into the 1960’s when Hanoi was a quaint capital populated mostly by modest workers. Wander around these narrow alleys covered in colorful market stalls, observe the locals as they go about their daily lives – you will experience Hanoi as only the locals do.
Return to the Old Quarter and after a break for lunch you will enjoy a cyclo (pedicab) ride around the Old Quarter. These ancient narrow streets are bustling with people and shops. Your ride ends at Hoan Kiem Lake in the city center.
The small urban lake is also known as The Lake of the Restored Sword, and the area surrounding it is Hanoi’s cultural center. Visit Ngoc Son Temple, situated on a small island in the photogenic lake, and observe the fascinating rituals that take place here – the devout visit it throughout the day.
In the early evening comes a fascinating performance of Water Puppetry, where Trehan Journeys guests will enjoy preferred seating. The Thang Long Puppet Theatre is Hanoi’s most famous because of the quality of the performers, and it is located on the banks of Hoan Kiem Lake, across from Ngoc Son Temple. This art form, which is unique to North Vietnam, originated in the 11th century. The combination of indigenous music, small fireworks, and the colorful wooden performers, as well as the accomplished musicians visible in the gallery, makes this spectacle a great introduction to North Vietnamese culture.
After the performance, you will enjoy a short walk to your hotel by the charming lake, walking past the locals as they dine on street food, an activity that is omnipresent at night all over the Old Quarter. By now you will start realizing that the Vietnamese take street food to a whole new level, even by Southeast Asia standards – people eating are everywhere, occupying sections of the pedestrian walkways, parks, sometimes taking over parts of the roads after sunset, enjoying the wares of scores of small street stalls.
Day 4. Hanoi – Ha Long Bay
Overnight – Orchid Cruise
Check-out from your hotel in the morning, and then you are driven 1.5 to 2 hours to Haiphong, a significantly shorter drive than to Ha Long, where almost all other cruises start. Upon your arrival you will join your fellow cruise travelers in a reception area where refreshments will be served. After a while you will be assisted in boarding your small luxury cruise ship which has among the largest cabins among the boats plying on Ha Long Bay. You will be in an upgraded balcony cabin with fabulous views.
The entire bay is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the world’s most spectacular seascapes. The water is relatively calm on the bay, and the scenic beauty is characterized by a vast area that is full of lush limestone (karst) hills jutting out of the ocean. A buffet lunch is served shortly after the cruise begins. Your cruise will visit some of the main attractions of Ha Long Bay that are also visited by other boats, but you will also spend quite a bit of time where most other cruises don’t go, in stunning locations that are a little off the beaten track.
You will have various excursions available during your cruise, including options to canoe, swim, explore amazing caves, and there will be a full schedule of activities on the ship that you can participate in. Very good Vietnamese and western cuisine options will be served throughout.
Day 5. HaLong Bay – Hue
Overnight – Azerai La Residence Hue
Wake up to stunning views and then, after refreshments you have the option to experience this morning’s scheduled excursion. Then the leisurely cruise back begins, giving you ample time for brunch and more relaxation and photography. Check out of your cabin and you are met by your Connoisseur Guide and chauffeur at the dock.
Flight to Hue. You are driven to Hanoi airport to board your flight to Hue, The City of Mist. From Hue airport you are driven to your historic riverfront resort for check-in. By far Hue’s best lodging option, it was the residence of the French Resident Superieure in times past, and you will be in their top suite.
Hue History & Culture. Hue is known for its magnificent monuments built under the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 – 1945), and also famous for its cuisine, as well as its unique conical hats. But Hue has an authentic Vietnamese charm all its own, and unlike Hanoi and Saigon, the city has a relaxed vibe. A morning or evening stroll on the Perfume River is highly recommended. Hue’s impressive Citadel is one of Vietnam’s eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites because of it being such a fine example of an Eastern Feudal Capital. Hue’s historical Nguyen Kings Tombs are equally interesting, and very ornate and colorful.
Day 6. Hue
Overnight – Azerai La Residence Hue
Your day will start in the morning with a visit to the impressive mausoleum of King Tu Duc (ruled 1848 – 1883). Close by is the next attraction, the unique mausoleum of King Khai Dinh (ruled 1916 – 1925). These ornate and colorful monuments, designed by the kings themselves, were also used as holiday retreats during their lifetimes. Next you will enjoy a guided walk-through older part of Hue, including a busy market located next to the river. After a lunch break you will continue your exploration with a visit to the Royal Citadel. The sprawling complex of palaces, fortifications and pagodas was, in its day, virtually impenetrable. The tour of this Imperial City features monuments such as the Flag Tower, Noon Gate, Nine Dynastic Urns, Nine Holy Cannons, Thai Hoa Palace (Palace of Supreme Harmony), and the Forbidden Purple City.
Day 7. Hue – Hoi An
Overnight – Four Seasons Resort the Nam Hai
Drive to Hoi An. You will be assisted with your check-out in the morning. Embark on a scenic 3.5-hour (approximately) drive to Hoi An. Some of this drive is through coastal fishing villages, and much of it is on one of Southeast Asia’s most spectacular roads, where you straddle the Pacific Ocean with amazing views on one side, and lush green hills on the other.
Scenery and China Beach. At the highest point of the journey, you will have a breathtaking view of the Pacific, and on the other side a view of the modern city of Da Nang and its bay. After you descend the drive goes the outskirts of Da Nang as you head towards Hoi An. An available photo opportunity stop can be at My Khe Beach, a favorite of American soldiers during the Vietnam war, made popular in the television series China Beach. It also served as a location for Apocalypse Now, and countless other productions since then. Most of the 20-mile beach is now fronted by a collection of massive resorts, almost all of them with casinos that are open only to tourists.
The Nam Hai. Arrive close to Hoi An in time for a slightly late lunch and you will check-in at your gorgeous oceanfront resort. Your ocean-view villa sits amidst 85 lush tropical acres on one of the finest beaches in Vietnam, just a short drive from Hoi An. This is true Luxury Plus lodging, with villa’s designed for privacy, great cuisine and service, a fantastic spa, and a lot more. Although many of our guests ask for beach time at the end of their touring, it is definitely worth it to consider adding a day or two here, which we will be happy to accommodate upon request.
Hoi An Exploration. Hoi An is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as the best-preserved ancient seaport in Southeast Asia. We recommend not visiting the ancient town during the late morning and early afternoon as, during those hours, it gets really crowded and noisy due to a large influx of tourist bus groups from the casino resorts. Begin your discovery of the ancient seaport in the late afternoon with a guided walk through the Japanese and Chinese Quarters of the tiny town. One of the highlights is the much-photographed Japanese Bridge. You will visit a number of temples, pagodas, communal houses, traditional shops, and other places of interest in the small town. You can either head back to your resort in the early evening, or, those who want to continue experiencing the ancient town this evening can then have dinner at one of the delightful cafes and restaurants located on the river – the better restaurants have a distinctly French ambiance. Please note that the food and choices at your lodging are hard to match
Day 8. Hoi An
Overnight – Four Seasons Resort the Nam Hai
My Son Sanctuary Excursion OR Fisherman and Farmer for a Half Day. Please select one of the two options below for this day, along with repeat visit(s) to the small ancient town. Packed snacks are encouraged for the below visits. Options for the first part of this day include the following –
Option 1: My Son. An excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of My Son Sanctuary. These remarkable structures lie about an hour away from Hoi An, and the structures go back as far as the 4th Century. It is one of the most important examples of Hindu influence in Southeast Asia. Although largely in a state of ruin today, My Son is often compared with other historical temple complexes in Southeast Asia, such as Angkor Wat of Cambodia or Ayutthaya of Thailand. You’ll be given a brief introduction to Cham history and culture, and its Hindu influence, and then you will visit the remains of the carefully crafted red brick temples replete with beautiful monuments and epitaphs. From here you are driven back to the Nam Hai and you are at leisure to experience more of the Ancient Town and/or your resort – your guide and vehicle will be available to your preferences.
OR
Option 2: Rural Farming & Fishing Life Experience. Please note that, due to their nature, schedules and availability of the following experiences can change without notice. When needed, your guide will make more than satisfactory substitutions.
Bamboo Crafts Family. Join your Connoisseur Guide for a drive into the rural region away from modern civilization, along the Thu Bon River and its gorgeous Nipa Mangroves, passing lush farms and jungles. Soon you will arrive at the home and workshop of a local bamboo craftsman. Bamboo is widely used for a myriad of purposes in central coastal Vietnam, and there are a few expert craftsmen who sculpt and create with this amazing natural resource – your host this morning is one of the very best of these craftsmen. You will be shown the steps of the creative process, and you are encouraged to make a souvenir for yourself.
Fisherman’s Life. Visit with a local fisherman’s family. With prior notice, bicycles can be arranged (and elsewhere during the journey) and your vehicle will be headed to the same destination. The approximately 5-mile ride is on flat country roads with no traffic, and the scenery is extremely charming. At the end of the ride, you will meet the friendly family and learn about their simple lifestyles, followed by a lesson in Vietnamese net fishing!
Farmers Life. A very short drive after this will end at an organic farm, where again you will learn from the farmers on how they cultivate their crops. You can, if you so desire, participate in their daily activities for a little while. From here you are driven back to the Nam Hai and you are at leisure to experience more of the Ancient Town and/or your resort – your guide and vehicle will be available to your preferences.
Day 9. Hoi An – Da Nang – Saigon
Overnight – The Riverie Saigon
Flight to Saigon. Check-out of your resort in the morning and you are driven to Da Nang airport, crossing the charming Dragon Bridge on the way, where you will board the noon flight to Saigon. Upon arrival, there is a break for a late lunch if you so desire, as airplane food will have been served on your flight.
Cu Chi Tunnels. From the airport area you can go directly to your lodging in Saigon, or proceed to Cu Chi, located in the countryside north of Saigon – this decision will need to be made soon after you reserve your tour. This area is famed for its elaborate network of over 200 kilometers of three-story underground tunnels hand-dug by local people during the Vietnam War. You have the option to experience climbing down into a tunnel and crawling around to get a taste of how the North Vietnamese soldiers (Viet Cong) lived during the latter part of the war. There are displays of weaponry that was used, as well as life-sized statues of the North Vietnamese soldiers depicting the lives they lived.
The Riverie Saigon. After this experience you are driven to Saigon where you are assisted with check-in at Vietnam’s most luxurious city hotel, the Reverie, also ranked as Saigon’s top hotel. You are in the heart of Saigon’s downtown (District 1), and restaurants, bars, and shopping are right at your doorstep, as are historical structures such as the Opera House.
Ho Chi Minh City. Located near the mouth of the Mekong, this city was once nothing more than swampland inhabited by a few Khmer people. Today it is Vietnam’s largest and most metropolitan city, with its official name – Ho Chi Minh City. The city of over 9 million people is a prototypical large Asian city with an impressive modern skyline overlooking busy streets overflowing with, for western visitors, chaotic scooter, motorcycle and other traffic.
Day 10. Saigon
Overnight – The Riverie Saigon
Reunification Palace. You will start your day in the morning with a visit to the Reunification Palace. This was the headquarters of the United States supported South Vietnamese government and has been left largely as it appeared on the day the Viet Cong’s tanks crashed through the gate and claimed victory for the North. The original furniture, equipment rooms, and war rooms remain untouched, all the way down to the rotary phones on the desks and strategic maps on the walls. In the middle of the crowded city, this large structure and its vast grounds are a fascinating time warp taking you back to the early 1970’s.
Central Post Office. Next, enjoy a visit to the beautiful colonial building housing the Central Post Office, with its amazing collection of century old western telegraphs and other machines. This is an active place of business, and the gorgeous antique interior includes wooden phone booths and counters that the locals will be standing at while buying services.
Walk-through Saigon. After lunch you will enjoy a walk-through Saigon, including the famous shopping street of Dong Khoi. The walk starts at Notre Dame Cathedral and leads you to the Municipal Theater, after which you are driven to your spectacular hotel to enjoy lunch and the amazing facilities for a little while.
Brewery and Local Dining Experience. In the evening you will join your Guide for a short walk to Pasteur Street and the most famous craft beer taproom in Vietnam. Meet the brewer, learn about the marriage between this western practice and local ingredients, and sample several brews. You will then walk a little further to a nice outdoor restaurant located on the rooftop of an old apartment block. Dinner will be a diverse assortment of delicious Vietnamese home cooked favorites, and your hosts and Guide will answer any questions that you may have about the ingredients and flavors of the dishes being offered.
Day 11. Saigon - Siem Reap, Cambodia
Overnight – Phum Baitang
War Remnants Museum. You are assisted with your check-out in the morning and you will take a short drive to the War Remnants Museum. We do not recommend this museum to guests who might get upset by gruesome war photos, descriptions, and exhibits. Also, please bear in mind that the atrocities exhibited are those attributed to American soldiers, during what Vietnam calls the American War. For those that want to forego the museum, you can enjoy your spectacular hotel until the mid-morning or explore surrounding District 1 with your Guide.
Binh Tray Market. In the mid-morning you will be driven to the colorful and interesting Binh Tray Market, where the locals come to shop for produce, fruit, poultry, meat and seafood. After a walk to explore the indoor market, you will return to Saigon’s downtown, where we recommend a slightly late lunch at the highest rated upscale Vietnamese restaurant in Saigon, Vietnam House.
Flight to Siem Reap with VIP Departure Services. After lunch you are driven to the airport where your Vietnamese Connoisseur Guide will introduce you to your VIP Airport Concierge, bid farewell, and then you will be escorted through all departure processes and assisted in boarding your flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia.
VIP Arrival Services. Arrive in Siem Reap and you are greeted at the airport by your VIP Airport Concierge as you disembark your plane and you will now be escorted through the complete arrival process, including immigration, baggage claim, and customs.
Phum Baitang. You are then driven to your gorgeous luxury resort, Phum Baitang by Zannier Hotels, and assisted with your check-in. Set among lush farmlands, this is by far the best luxury boutique lodging in the Siem Reap region, and the paddy fields around you are unobtrusively busy during the day and allow you to observe Cambodian farmers going about their daily life.
Day 12. Siem Reap
Overnight – Bensley Collection Shinta Mani
Angkor National Museum. Recommended Morning Visit – Start this morning with a curated private tour of the Angkor National Museum. This visit and your time with the curator will enhance your understanding and experience in the Angkor Region. The museum currently houses a vast collection of priceless Angkorian artefacts and art, among other things. There are 8 Galleries, each dealing with a specific Khmer Period, including two that are devoted to Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. The curator will tailor your visit to your preferences. Depending on if you choose to opt for the curated private tour of the Museum, your today’s itinerary will be adjusted accordingly. Given below is the regular itinerary without the Museum Tour.
Angkor Wat at Sunrise. Rising well before dawn, proceed for your exploration of the most famous temple in Southeast Asia, Angkor Wat. Believed to be the world’s largest religious building, this 12th century temple is a perfect fusion of symbolism and symmetry and a source of pride and strength to all Khmers. Arrive at the monuments entrance before the sun rises and walk to a location near the temple, where your sunrise view of Angkor Wat is across lotus ponds. This is the best time to visit Angkor Wat because it is the least crowded during the early morning, and watching the sunrise over the awe-inspiring complex is an experience not to be missed. After admiring the sunrise, you will proceed into the massive complex to discover its incredible structures and plethora of intricacies, which will be highlighted by your Guide. After exploring Angkor Wat you are driven back to your resort for some time to freshen up and to have breakfast.
Walled City of Angkor Thom. In the late morning you will explore the immense walled city of Angkor Thom and its multiple awe-inspiring monuments built at a scale that is simply amazing. Following the occupation of Angkor by the Chams from 1177 to 1181, the king decided to build an impregnable fortress at the heart of his empire. The causeway is lined by an intricate bridge depicting the Churning of the Ocean of Milk from Hindu mythology in which the Devas (gods) and Asuras (devils) are engaged in tug of war with a Naga (seven-headed serpent) to obtain the elixir of immortality. Begin your visit at the Terrace of the Leper King. This intricately carved platform was the royal crematorium and the statue that was originally thought to be the leper king is now believed to be Yama, the god of death.
Terrace of Elephants. You will continue along the Terrace of Elephants, originally used as a viewing gallery for the king to preside over parades, performances, and sporting events. At the southern end lies the Baphuon, once of the most beautiful temples at Angkor, dating from the 11th century. It has undergone a massive renovation by the French and is now once again open for viewing.
Temple of the Bayon. Next up is the enigmatic and enchanting temple of the Bayon. At the exact center of Angkor Thom, this is an eccentric expression of the creative genius and inflated ego of Cambodia’s most celebrated king. Its 54 towers are each topped off with the four faces of Avalokiteshvara (Buddha of Compassion), all of which bear more than a passing resemblance to the king himself.
Ta Prohm & Preah Khan. There is a break for lunch after which you will visit mystical Ta Prohm, which has been abandoned to the elements. Left as it was discovered by French explorer Henri Mouhout in 1860, the tentacle-like tree roots here are slowly strangling the surviving stones. This was one of the settings for the original Tomb Raider movie. Complete your exploration of this section of Angkor’s wealth of monuments with a visit to another temple that makes you feel like you have traveled back in time – Preah Khan. This large temple has also been left unrestored for the most part and is a fascinating maze of narrow passageways and windows that each offers their own unique view into the past.
Day 13. Siem Reap
Overnight – Phum Baitang
Beng Mealea. Join your Guide for a very scenic 75 to 90-minute drive through the Cambodian countryside to the amazing temple complex of Beng Mealea. Arrive and start your exploration of this massive early 12th century complex. Although partially in ruins, much of the complex is still in good condition, and some of the trees and vegetation have intermingled with the structure to create a sight that is unmatched by other similar monuments in Southeast Asia. Due to its distance from Siem Reap, this surreal complex attracts significantly fewer tourists than Angkor Wat and the temples in the city of Angkor Thom.
Tonle Sap Lake. From Beng Mealea you will head towards Tonle Sap stopping for lunch along the way. Tonle Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, the lake is connected to a river of the same name. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the area is one of the most biodiverse in the world, and its waters were what sustained the magnificent Angkor civilization, and others before that. The lake loses much of its water during winter, and when the rains come in the late spring/early summer, the lake fills up and rises over 30 feet. You will board your boat and explore the lakeside fishing community of Kampong Khleang, the largest town on the lake, and no doubt be impressed by the network of houses on up to 30-foot-tall stilts, lush farmlands, and small fishing communities. You will have the opportunity to observe how the locals live and work in this unique environment. Unlike the very touristy and hawker-filled village of Chong Kneas, where almost all other tours go, Kampong Khleang offers a more authentic experience.
Night Market. In the evening you will join your Cambodia Connoisseur Guide for a fascinating walk through the local night market where tourists and locals shop for all sorts of items, while enjoying street food
Day 14. Siem Reap – Luang Prabang
Overnight – Rosewood
Banteay Srei Temple Complex. After checking-out you will head to the Banteay Srei Temple Complex. Although it attracts more visitors than Beng Mealea, it is less crowded than the main complexes in the Siem Reap Region. Banteay Srei is another Cambodian temple dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva, and, at more than a thousand years of age, it is older than almost all of the more significant temples in the Siem Reap Region. Constructed from hard Red Sandstone, this complex is a study in detail. It is small when compared to the main complex’s structures in Siem Reap, or even the Beng Mealea Complex. However, the intricacy of its original sculptures, especially the detailed figures of Hindu Gods and Goddesses, and the voluptuous and beautiful Apsaras, is unsurpassed even among all the wonders found in the Angkor region. Some parts of this temple, more so than in other Angkor Region monuments, are replicas due to theft over the last few decades, before adequate protection was added.
Flight to Luang Prabang with VIP Departure Services. From Banteay Srei you will head, stopping along the way for a slightly late lunch, to the Siem Reap airport, where you will be assisted in boarding your flight to Luang Prabang. Bid farewell to your Cambodia Connoisseur Guide at the airport, where you will be introduced to your VIP Airport Concierge and then be escorted through all departure processes.
VIP Arrival Services. Upon arrival at Luang Prabang, you are greeted at the airport by your VIP Airport Concierge as you disembark your plane and you will now be escorted through the complete arrival process, including immigration, baggage claim, and customs. You will be introduced to your Travel Facilitator or your Laos Connoisseur Guide, who will usher you to your vehicle.
Rosewood. You are driven to your boutique luxury resort and assisted with check-in.
Luang Prabang Townscape. All of Luang Prabang’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers visitors a perfect micro chasm of the landscapes and culture of Southeast Asia. Its incredible utopian setting provides venues for a large and diverse array of activities, including Mekong River explorations, waterfalls, and much more.
UNESCO describes Luang Prabang as “an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the European colonial authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its unique, remarkably well-preserved townscape illustrates a key stage in the blending of these two distinct cultural traditions.”
Day 15. Luang Prabang
Overnight – Rosewood
Optional Morning Alms Giving Ceremony. An optional pre-sunrise start today gives you the opportunity to participate in one of Luang Prabang’s most iconic traditions: donating food to the local monks (Tak Bat). Your Guide will assist you in procuring the groceries and instruct you on the process as the monks walk by silently and open their baskets for you to place your contribution in them. The monks have been collecting their day’s meals in this manner for centuries.
Fresh Food Market Tour. Afterward enjoy a walk through the nearby fresh food market. The busy market is a hive of activity as locals purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish caught from the Mekong River. Return to the hotel for breakfast and a bit of leisure time to freshen up.
Royal Palace Museum. Late Morning join your Guide for a tour of the charming old town. The first stop is the quaint Royal Palace Museum, which offers a good overview of the local history. Continue on the quiet back lanes to the beautiful historical Heuan Chan Heritage House, taking in its historical items and architectural charms while learning about the connection it has with the Royal Palace.
Wat Xiengthong. Next you will visit the magnificent Wat Xiengthong. This monument is a photographer’s delight because of its classical Luang Prabang architecture, with the roof sweeping close to the ground. Explore the temple grounds before crossing the road to Wat Khili where this temple’s charming traditional library building houses a historic photo exhibition of Buddhist heritage.
Arts and Ethnology Center. You will also visit the impressive Arts and Ethnology Center which provides great insights into the ethnic mix and culture of Laos.
Kuang Si Waterfalls. There is a break for lunch, after which you are driven to the gorgeous set of waterfalls at Kuang Si. Upon your arrival at the entrance, you have the option of a quick visit to the small bear rescue center at the base of the falls. Proceed onward into the jungle on well- maintained walkways, until you arrive at the first small set of falls. The base of these falls has a beautiful natural blue swimming hole the size of a large public pool – swimming is permitted at all the falls, so you may want to dress appropriately. Continue on your leisurely walk through the jungle, making your way from waterfall to waterfall, to one idyllic swimming hole after another. The finale is a stunning 200 ft. cascade that is the most impressive of the collection of waterfalls. You are driven back to Luang Prabang at the end of this adventure.
Day 16. Luang Prabang
Overnight – Rosewood
Mekong River Boat Cruise. Today you will explore the scenic rural villages along the Mekong River. You will board a private boat for a short cruise across the Mekong to the village of Ban Xieng Maen. Explore the quiet village, and hike to Wat Chom Phet, a temple built by the Thai army in 1880. Climb the approx. 100 steps to visit this small dilapidated temple from where you have an undisturbed and peaceful view over the Mekong River and Luang Prabang. A short walk brings you to the ancient Royal temple of Wat Long Khoun, that was formerly used by past Kings and Queens for meditation purposes.
Pak Ou Caves. Board your boat and continue your cruise up the mighty Mekong River. Pay a visit to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. Although the caves are not as massive as some of the famous caves in Southeast Asia, they are very interesting because Buddhists have been venturing here for centuries to place Buddha statues in them. The lower cave contains the largest part of the collection, well over 3000 statues, and hence a fairly arduous climb up some steep stairs to the upper cave is purely optional.
Wat Done Khoun Temple. After your visit to the caves, you will head back toward Luang Prabang, making a stop at Wat Done Khoun temple, a unique temple situated on an island in the Mekong, before continuing to Luang Prabang.
Phousi Mountain. Early evening you have the option of a guided excursion to Phousi Mountain. This is a hill in the center of the old town that provides a breathtaking view of the town and the Mekong River at sunset. This excursion involves a fairly rigorous climb up 350 paved steps, but the view from the top is an amazing photographic opportunity, as it showcases the remarkable beauty of Luang Prabang.
Day 17. Luang Prabang – Bangkok
Overnight – Mandarin Oriental
International Flight with VIP Departure Services. You are assisted with check-out in the mid-morning and driven to the airport to board your international flight. Most guests fly to Bangkok or Vietnam to make their international connection, and this flight can be included, as can other services at your connecting airport. Bid farewell to your Laos Connoisseur Guide at the airport.
Lodging Details
| Destinations | Lodgings |
|---|---|
|
Hanoi |
Capella Hanoi – Terrace Opera Suite |
|
HaLong Bay |
Orchid Cruise Premium – Premium Suite Cabin with Balcony |
|
Hue |
Azerai La Residence Hue – Resident Suite |
|
Hoi An |
Four Seasons Resort the Nam Hai – One Bedroom Ocean View Villa |
|
Saigon |
The Riverie Saigon – Panorama Deluxe Room |
|
Siem Reap |
Phum Baitang – Pool Villa |
|
Luang Prabang |
Rosewood – Riverside Suite |
Inclusions
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English or Spanish speaking connoisseur guide
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Guide accompanies & assists during travel
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VIP Airport Concierge on all International Arrivals and Departures (6 Services)
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Breakfast daily
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All meals on HaLong Bay
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Ground transportation via upscale private vehicles
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Representative for assistance on departure / arrival transfers per the itinerary
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Services of the best English-speaking Accompanying Tour Directors
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Applicable monument entrance fees as per the itinerary
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Bottled water during sightseeing
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Hotel accommodation as listed above
-
All Boat Fees/Fares per the itinerary
Exclusions
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International travel except countries on your Journey
-
Any expenses of a personal nature, such as tips, laundry, phone calls, drinks etc.
-
Meals other than those specified on itinerary
-
Travel insurance, visas, etc.
Pricing
Please call us at 512 387 1111
Or send us Your Preferred Dates below
Land Cost
2 Guests
$19,700.00* Per Person
4 Guests
$18,500.00* Per Person
2 Suites/Rooms/Villas
8 Guests
$17,300.00* Per Person
4 Suites/Rooms/Villas
Internal Flight Costs
Business Class
$1872.00* Per Person
These are Smart Fares. Cancellation and Change Fees Apply.
Business Class Flights included in Internal Flight Costs: Hanoi – Hue / Da Nang – Saigon – Siem Reap – Luang Prabang
Prices subject to change until booked.