CLASSIC & LUXURY ITINERARY

Transcription

1 CLASSIC & LUXURY ITINERARY

2 CONTENTS VIETNAM Colonial Viet Nam (VCCL14) Northern Highlights (VCDNT6) Southern Highlights (VCDST6) Southern Golf Tours (VCSGF7) A Taste of Vietnam (VCDTOV) Essential Highlights (VCDE11) Vietnam Cultural Heartland (VCDHH6) Vietnam Land of Adventure (VCDLOA) CAMBODIA Cambodia Essentials (CCES06) Angkor Extension (CCSRE3) Majestic Angkor (CCMJA4) Highlights of Cambodia (CCHOC7) LAOS Colonial Luang Prabang (LCCLP3) Lao Essentials (LCLE04) MULTI COUNTRIES Essential Vietnam & Cambodia (CEVC14) Indochina Odyssey (CIDO18) Treasure of Indochina (CBTI15) 2

3 VIETNAM COLONIAL VIET NAM (14 days) Best season: Year round Trip code: VCCL14 Classic & Luxury- Vietnam This itinerary is perfect for those wanting a true taste of Vietnamese culture who want to get a little off the tourist trail but still enjoy their creature comforts. Extra special touches may be requested such as private limousine transfers to and from the airports; Business class seats on domestic flights (incl. use of business class lounge at airports); private transfers and guides for sightseeing; local experts providing private guided tours through art galleries and museums. Upon request, restaurant reservations, meetings with artists, cooking instructors and designers, shopping recommendations, spa reservations, tours with special-interest lecturers, and exclusive access to local activities and cultural events Day 1 - Arrive Ho Chi Minh City Arrive into Ho Chi Minh city, private limousine transfer to your hotel. The balance of the day is at leisure to relax and refresh after your long flight. Overnight at Park Hyatt Hotel Day 2 - Mekong Delta Bassac Cruise There are many facets to the Mekong Delta which will unfold during this fascinating overnight cruise on the authentic Bassac II, a classic wooden hull rice barge. This charming vessel has 10 cabins with private facilities providing a perfect home for the next two days. Overnight on Bassac II boat (B,L,D) Day 3- Mekong Delta Ho Chi Minh City This morning there is an opportunity to witness many of the local handicrafts that abound in the region. Leaving the Bassac II behind, journey later this afternoon by road to the flamboyant and bustling Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight at Park Hyatt Hotel (B,L) Day 4 - Ho Chi Minh City Tour Your sightseeing tour today introduces you to the many sights and sounds of Ho Chi Minh (formerly Saigon). The War Crimes Museum, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral and the vibrant Ben Thanh market are on the agenda as you are acquainted with this remarkable city. Overnight at Park Hyatt Hotel (B,L) Day 5 - Ho Chi Minh Hue Your flight this morning takes you to the historic city of Hue. Nestled on the banks of the Perfume River Hue is a World Heritage city full of charm and romance. Visit local temples, pagodas and the Hue Citadel. Overnight at La Residence Hotel (B) Day 6 - Hue Danang Hoi An Drive this morning to Hoi An along the beautiful coast road providing one of the most scenic drives in Central Vietnam. Wandering through the streets of this picturesque town, you can soak up the atmosphere of local life. Ancient Japanese style bridges, winding streets, vibrant markets, temples and ancient Vietnamese houses give this township a magical quality. Overnight at Life Resort (B) Day 7 - Cooking School My Son Learn the art of Vietnamese cooking at a local cooking school & restaurant. Visit the local markets to purchase ingredients then return to the restaurant to learn from the chefs the secrets of creating a selection of Vietnamese delicacies. This afternoon visit My Son, the ancient kingdom site of the Champa civilization, a cradle of religious, intellectual and political life from the 4th to 15th centuries. Overnight at Life Resort (B,L) Day 8 - Danang Hanoi Sapa Join your commercial flight to Hanoi, gateway to Northern Vietnam. This evening board the overnight Victoria Express train to Lao Cai and then transfer to Sapa. The Victoria Sapa Hotel has specially reserved private carriages, dining car and couchettes for the journey to Sapa. (B) Day 9 Sapa 3

4 Transfer from Lao Cai train station to your hotel in Sapa. After a restful morning your local guide will introduce you to the delights of this mountain village. Visit one of the nearby local hill tribe villages to witness the true beauty of this hill tribe region. Overnight at Victoria Sapa Day 10 - Sapa - Victoria Express A full day to encounter the essence of this most scenic region. You will be welcomed with open arms into their lives, a delightful cultural exchange made possible by the interpretative skills of you local guide. Hand crafts are plentiful, of excellent quality and great value in this remote location of Vietnam. Board the Victoria Express for an overnight journey to Hanoi.(B) Day 11 - Hanoi Halong Bay Arrive early morning Hanoi and transfer to stunning Ha Long Bay. On arrival in Ha Long harbor, board your private boat for a relaxing overnight cruise to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this area. With more than a thousand limestone peaks rising up from its crystalline emerald waters, this area is one of the natural wonders of Vietnam and now one of four World Heritage listed sites in the country. Overnight on board your private boat (B,L,D) Day 12 - Ha Long Bay Hanoi A cruise through the islands and rock formations is a breath-taking experience. Local fishing boats, sampans and cruise vessels lazily pass each other in these tranquil waters. Journey this afternoon to Hanoi and spend the next two evenings at the luxurious Sofitel Metropole. (B,L) Day 13 Hanoi city tour Today is spent exploring the city including the French quarter, the vibrant Old Quarter with bustling streets, home to hundreds of small thriving businesses and Museum of Ethnology which is dedicated to the country s 54 ethnic minorities. This evening visit the famous Water Puppet Theatre. Overnight at Sofitel Metropole (B) Day 14 Hanoi Departure The journey concludes after breakfast, a limousine transfer awaits to take you to the airport for your onward International connections. (B) Domestic flights (Saigon Hue; Danang Hanoi) Victoria train (four berth cabin) Accommodation using 5 star hotels, ensuite cabins on private deluxe junks English speaking guide 4

5 HANOI HALONG BAY - HANOI Classic & Luxury- Vietnam NORTHERN HIGHLIGHTS (6 days) Best season: Year round Trip code: VCDNT6 Discover the cultural heritage, architecture, cuisine and dramatic landscapes of Vietnam s north. From the charming colonial Hanoi, to the enchanting Ha Long Bay. Explore authentic handicraft villages and exquisite pagodas in the Red River Delta. This tour comprises the best hotels in the north and memorable sights at a relaxing pace. Day 1: Arrival Hanoi Upon arrival, you will be met our staff and transferred to the hotel. Welcome dinner. (D) Day 2: Hanoi Sightseeing tour including Ho Chi Minh Complex, Temple of Literature, the museum of Ethnology and an afternoon walking and cyclo tours of the Old Quarter. This evening we see performance of the famous Water Puppet show. (B,L) Day 3: Hanoi Ha Long Bay Drive to Ha Long Bay to explore the bay s caves and beaches from the luxury of our very own boat. Overnight onboard. (B,L,D) Day 4: Ha Long Bay - Hanoi Spend the morning in the bay relaxing, swimming or kayaking before returning to Hanoi. (B,L) Day 5: Hanoi (Red River Delta Cruise) Enjoy a full day of sightseeing along the Red River Delta, visiting local villages renowned for their unique handicrafts. Visit rural pagodas and temples along the way. (B,L) Day 6: Depart Hanoi Tour ends after breakfast. (B) Accommodation using 5 star hotel, ensuite cabin on private deluxe junk English speaking guide 5

6 Classic & Luxury- Vietnam SOUTHERN HIGHLIGHTS (6 days) Best season: Year round Trip code: VCDST6 HO CHI MINH CITY - CU CHI TUNNELS - DALAT - NHA TRANG Explore the southern highlights of Vietnam, from the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene mountains of Dalat, to the idyllic coast of Nha Trang. This tour provides a taste of Vietnam s diverse landscapes, culture and local communities. Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels Visit Cu Chi to explore the legendary network of tunnels. Lunch and a city tour of Ho Chi Minh s popular sites. (L) Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City - Dalat Scenic drive to Dalat, stopping at tea and coffee plantations along the way. Enjoy lunch at the Ponguar water falls. Arrive in Dalat late afternoon before heading out to dinner. (B) Day 3: Dalat Full day tour of Da lat and the serene mountainous landscape of surrounding areas. (B) Day 4: Dalat - Nha Trang Departing Dalat, we visit a local village renowned for their silk weaving before heading to the coastal town of Nha Trang. We stop for a late lunch at Cam Ranh Bay and arrive in Nha Trang late afternoon. (B) Day 5: Nha Trang Cruise to the islands off the coast of Nha Trang with plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling. A fresh seafood lunch will be served on board. (B/L) Day 6: Nha Trang - Ho Chi Minh City Transfer to airport for a short flight back to Ho Chi Minh city. The tour ends after transfer to your hotel.(b) Accommodation using 5 star hotels Domestic flight Nha Trang Ho Chi Minh City English speaking guide 6

7 SOUTHERN GOLF TOUR Best season: Year round Trip code: VCSGF7 Classic & Luxury- Vietnam This is a trip for golf enthusiasts. Pursue your passion for golf while soaking up the southern highlights of Ho Chi Minh, Phan Thiet and Dalat. DAY 1 HO CHI MINH CITY The tour is split into a morning and afternoon schedule, with lunch in between. In the morning, visit The Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral and Old Post Office. At noon, lunch near Ben Thanh Market. In the afternoon, visit Cu Chi Tunnels. (B) DAY 2 HO CHI MINH CITY SONG BE GOLF COURSE Play a round of golf at the Song Be Golf Course, widely regarded as one of the most challenging in the country. The 100 hectare golf resort was built out of the natural landscape of fruit orchard and coconut palms and features at least 10 lakes with tree-lined fairways. The remainder of the day is free to explore Vietnam s most vibrant city. (B) DAY 3 HO CHI MINH CITY PHAN THIET OCEAN DUNES RESORT GOLF COURSE Drive to the coastal resort of Phan Thiet. Tee off on the exquisite Ocean Dunes Resort Golf Course designed by Nick Faldo, an outstanding natural site with sand dunes, sea breezes and fantastic sea views. (B) DAY 4 PHAN THIET DALAT Head inland to the City of Eternal Spring, Dalat. In the evening, discover the night market in the city center. (B) DAY 5 DALAT DALAT PALACE GOLF CLUB Start the day by playing a round of golf at the superb Dalat Palace Golf Club. The course gently blends into the rolling hills of Dalat and overlooking the Xuan Huong Lake, the fairways weave through the oversized prize trees. In the afternoon, visit the enchanting Long Son Pagoda in Dalat by train. (B) DAY 6 DALAT HO CHI MINH CITY Fly back to bustling Saigon. The rest of the day is free. (B) DAY 7 HO CHI MINH CITY The tour officially ends after breakfast. (B) Domestic flight Dalat - Saigon Accommodation using 5 star hotels English speaking guide 7

8 Classic & Luxury- Vietnam A TASTE OF VIET NAM (12 days) Grade: Easy Trip code: VCDTOV This trip is designed for the visitor with limited time and an unlimited appetite for culinary adventure. It features Vietnam s most popular destinations, with many special opportunities to discover and savor the surprisingly varied tastes of this fascinating land. From North to South, we ll delight in a medley of elegant foods prepared to please the eye as well as the palate, Our tour is well planned and we save precious time by flying or traveling by overnight train. Highlights include the wonders of Halong Bay as well as Hanoi with its alluring Old Quarter. We ll also visit Hue, the Imperial City of the 18th and 19th centuries, the picturesque port town of Hoi An and the ever-vibrant Ho Chi Minh City. Day 1: Arrival Hanoi Airport pick up upon arrival. We will have a market tour in the afternoon. This evening, our guide will escort you to a sumptuous dinner at Green Tangerine - set in an old French colonial villa. This is a quintessential Hanoi! (D) Day 2: Hanoi This morning we will explore Hanoi s old quarter with a morning cyclo ride. We ll have lunch at Kim Lien pagoda for a truly unique vegetarian lunch with local monks. We ll have a free afternoon before a Dinner and Wine tasting session at the infamous Press Club. (B, L, D) Day 3: Hanoi - Halong Bay After breakfast, we ll drive to Halong Bay. With more than a thousand limestone peaks rising up from its crystalline emerald waters, this area is rightly viewed as one of the natural wonders of Vietnam and is one of five World Heritage-listed sites. Here we will enjoy a sumptuous seafood lunch before relaxing on the tanning deck, swim in the clear aqua blue waters and enjoy the best cuisine available in the bay. Drive back to Hanoi in the late afternoon. (B, L, D) Day 4: Hanoi Let the cooking begin. Today we ll have a half day cooking lesson, beginning with a morning market tour follow by a great time at Highway 4 an institution in Hanoi for excellent traditional recipes. At 12:00 midday we will sit down and enjoy the fruits of our efforts there are several menus to choose from and each menu consists of 3 dishes to prepare. Late evening, we ll board the Reunification Express for an overnight train to the ancient imperial capital of Hue. (B, L) Day 5: Hue We ll arrive in this serene city early morning and transfer directly to our hotel. After lunch, we ll have a half day city tour and quick scan at the River side Market. There will be another culinary adventure this evening as we dine at the fine-dining establishment -Tropical Garden. (D) Day 6: Hue The morning begins with a hands-on cooking class at Tinh Gia Vien restaurant, highlighting the regal flavors of Hue cuisine as we prepare our own midday meal. After lunch, we ll take a cruise along the romantic Perfume River, passing opulent palaces and gardens of the 19 th century Nguyen kings. In the evening you may wish to stay at your hotel and attend an imperial dinner, wearing the traditional clothes of the emperors. (B, L) Day 7: Hue - Hoi An We ll continue south, going by road toward the riverside town of Hoi An. Our five-hour route, hugging the coastline along the South China Sea, serves up breathtaking views that grow even more spectacular as we wind our way up Hai Van Pass ( Pass of the Clouds ). After arriving in Hoi An we ll grab some lunch and take a walking tour around this once-thriving port and visit the famed old quarter, the Japanese Bridge, the old 8

9 Assembly Halls, art galleries and many old houses once belonging to Chinese merchants. Come evening, we ll dine at the Café des Amis along the river. (B, L, D) Day 8: Hoi An The morning will be free and easy until meeting for lunch at the Pho Cu restaurant. We ll shop at Hoi An s riverside market, always a hive of activity, for our dinner ingredients before spending the morning in a cooking demonstration with Miss Vi of the White Lantern restaurant. Here we will dine, followed by an after-dinner stroll and nightcap at one of Hoi An s many lively bars. (B, D) Day 9: Hoi An Mekong Delta This morning we ll head for Danang to take our one-hour flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), where we ll transfer directly to the Mekong Delta. We ll stop in My Tho for coffee, and there, we ll have our first taste of life in this amazing Delta. Arrive in Can Tho in the afternoon and visit a popular nearby pagoda. In the evening, we can enjoy a Vietnamese dinner especially prepared for us by the Victoria chef. (B, L, D) Day 10: Mekong Delta to Ho Chi Minh City We ll depart the Victoria Hotel at 6.30 am this morning from the jetty of the hotel. We ll enjoy a delectable breakfast buffet onboard the Lady Hau as we cruise the Mekong to visit the floating market of Cai Rang. We ll follow this with a cooking demonstration. In the afternoon, we ll return to Ho Chi Minh City. (B) Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City This morning, we ll have a half day city tour including Cholon, the War Remnants Museum, and the Reunification Palace. Cholon, home to Saigon's substantial Chinese population, is also the site of the largest market in Vietnam, the Binh Tay market. We ll have a free afternoon, before a deluxe farewell dinner at the Mandarine restaurant. It ll be a culinary delight in Ho Chi Minh City. (B, D) Day 12: Depart Ho Chi Minh City Today, you ll fly back to your country. Domestic flight (Danang Ho Chi Minh City) Accommodation using 5 star hotels (except 4 star hotel in Can Tho) English speaking guide through out 9

10 Classic & Luxury- Vietnam VIET NAM ESSENTIAL HIGHLIGHTS (11 days) Grade: Easy Trip code: VCDE11 Hanoi Halong Bay Hue Hoi An Ho Chi Minh Mekong Delta Day 1: Hanoi Tonight, our group will gather together for a welcome dinner and go through the trip plan together. (D) Day 2: Hanoi Today, we will enjoy a city trip to discover as much as possible of the local life in Hanoi. The day starts with a visit to The Temple of Literature. Our morning continues with a visit to three of the most beautiful pagodas located on the Westlake side, a great chance to relax. Our lunch will be at Kim Lien Pagoda. The afternoon will continue with a tour around the busy life of the Old quarter of Hanoi by traditional cyclo. (B, L) Day 3: Halong Bay After breakfast, we ll take a 3 hours drive to Halong Bay. This two-day itinerary gives us the chance to enjoy the bay from the luxury of our private junk. Here you can relax on the tanning deck, swim in the clear aqua blue waters and enjoy the best cuisine available in the bay. There is also the option of exploring some of the bay s most secluded lagoons using our fleet of modern easy-to-maneuver kayaks for some unforgettable scenery only accessible by kayak. (L, D) Day 4: Halong Bay - Hanoi Rising to the lapping waters of the bay, we have time for an early morning dip followed by breakfast. This morning we continue to cruise around the bay to find more secluded areas to either swim or kayak in. At midday, we will return to the main harbor and head back to Hanoi. Tonight we will have dinner at one of the best restaurants in Hanoi this city is a culinary paradise! (B, L,D) Day 5: Hanoi - Hue We ll take an early morning flight to Hue the ancient capital of Vietnam. In the afternoon, we take a half day City tour. After freshening up, we ll enjoy dinner together at one of Hue s finest restaurants. (B, D) Day 6: Hue - Hoi An This morning, we ll depart Hue for the scenic drive to Hoi An. Along the way we ll pass by the beautiful vista from Hai Van Pass and also visit the Cham museum on the way. In the afternoon, we ll check into one of the finest hotel s in Hoi An for some rest and relaxation. (B) Day 7: Hoi An This morning, we ll embark on a half day walking tour of Hoi An - visiting the ancient sites of this world heritage town. Then at noon, you are in for a real culinary treat a cooking class! (B, L) Day 8: Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) After lunch, we ll depart for Danang airport and then take an hour flight to Ho Chi Minh City. We ll have free time before meeting in the evening for dinner and a traditional Vietnamese concert at a local artisan s place. It ll be a truly unique cultural evening. (B, D) Day 9: Bassac Cruise to discover Mekong Delta After enjoying our breakfast, we ll drive about 2 hours to My Tho at the beginning of the Mekong Delta, where we ll board of the Bassac Boat. This two-day cruising trip will give you a wonderful chance to discover the charming life of the Mekong Delta region. The luxury junk is accompanied by an attentive crew who will serve a delicious lunch as you cruise between My Tho and the Ben Tre islands. Rendezvous with a local boat for a visit of the Ben Tre islands: rowing through the canals shaded with water coconut trees, through to a honey farm where you will taste the local production. Before dusk you will cruise 10

11 towards Cai Be. Dinner is served en route. After dinner, you can just relax next to the bar for a drink before retiring to your cabin as the Bassac weighs anchor for the night. (B, L, D) Day 10: Mekong Delta Ho Chi Minh Breakfast is available from 6.30 am in the morning. Mid-morning, you will depart the Bassac cruise and transfer to a local boat for an extensive visit of Cai Be, visiting the floating market, a local pop-rice and sweets production centre and visit the old colonial buildings onshore. After lunch our van will take us back to Ho Chi Minh City back to the Caravelle hotel to relax. (B, L) Day 11: Depart Ho Chi Minh & Vietnam Tour ends after breakfast. Domestic flights (Hanoi Hue; Danang HCMC) Accommodation using 5 star hotels English speaking guide through out 11

12 Classic & Luxury- Vietnam VIET NAM CULTURAL HEARTLAND (6 days) Grade: Easy Trip code: VCDHH6 Travel to the cultural heart of Vietnam as we explore the country s fascinating past. In Danang, we stay at the renowned Furama Resort on China Beach and visit the ancient Cham ruins at My Son. At Hoi An we see a marked Chinese influence evidence in the town s historic old quarter whilst Hue proudly reveals its regal traditions with the Imperial City. Day 1: Hanoi Hue We ll have a half day city tour of Hanoi before afternoon flight to Hue. We will stay at the Morin hotel an institution in Hue, designed in colonial French style. The evening is at leisure. Day 2: Hue Danang After breakfast, we ll begin with a cruise along the romantic Perfume River. We then dine in a fine local restaurant and sample some Hue delicacies. After lunch we transfer to Danang, arriving in Danang late afternoon. We will stay overnight at the spectacular Furama resort. (B, L) Day 3: Danang My Son day trip After breakfast, we ll embark on a day trip to My Son, via the Cham Museum. Located 60 km from Danang, My Son is considered to be one of the best-preserved Cham centers in Vietnam. My Son is now one of five World Heritage-listed sites in Vietnam. The afternoon is at leisure. (B, L) Day 4: Danang - Hoi An After leaving Danang, we ll drive a short distance to the delightful town of Hoi An approximately 30 km away. Once in Hoi An, we will check into our hotel before embarking on an orientation tour of this ancient trading town. We ll spend our time walking around the historic town soaking up the atmosphere, exploring the many Chinese assembly halls and fascinating ancestral homes. Overnight in Hoi An. (B, L) Day 5: Hoi An tailoring and cooking day Enjoy a morning market tour to gather fresh products for your half day cooking class! Hoi An is a culinary town and you will learn some of its delicious recipes in this half day cooking class. Of course, lunch will be the fruits of your rewards! After lunch, we will take a local sampan down Hoi An river to visit traditional handicraft villages. The evening is at leisure. (B, L) Day 6: Hoi An Danang Departure day trip ends. Domestic flight Hanoi Hue Accommodation using 5 star hotels English speaking guide through out 12

13 Classic & Luxury Vietnam VIET NAM LAND OF ADVENTURE (14 days ) Grade: Easy Trip code: VSDLOA Day 1: Arrival Tonight our group will gather together for a welcome dinner and go through the trip plan together. (D) Day 2: Hanoi - Mai Chau Hang Kia village After breakfast we depart Hanoi for Mai Chau. After lunch in a traditional stilt house of the Thai people, we drive for one hour to Sa Linh Village to begin our trekking. Today we ll walk on the off beaten track to Hang Kia village, home of the H mong Minority people where we stay overnight in a traditional long house. (B, L, D) Day 3: Hang Kia village Van village Today we ll trek through tropical rain forest, using the local tracks and passing through cornfields as we descend in to Mai Chau Valley. The trek takes around 6 hours and is quite steep in places. Lunch will be provided en route, and if weather permit, we will have a picnic near a babbling brook at the foot of the valley. Tonight we will be their guests in Van village. There, we will be toasted as honored guests and sample some of their homemade rice wine! (B, L, D) Day 4: Van village - Khoe - Hanoi This morning we ll trek for a couple of hours passing through several more Thai hamlets. We walk on the valley floor and are surrounded by rice paddies and beautiful scenery. At the small village of Khoe we meet up with our waiting vehicle and drive back towards Mai Chau. Lunch is again provided in Mai Chau and there is also the chance to do a little souvenir shopping before we return to Hanoi (B, L) Day 5: Hanoi Halong Bay After breakfast we head for a 3-hour drive to Halong Bay. This two-day cruise gives us the chance to enjoy the bay from the luxury of our junk. We board at noon and enjoy lunch on board. In the afternoon, we explore some of the limestone caves. Then our captain will find a secluded spot for swimming and sun bathing before dinner. For the night owls, there is an option of night fishing (B,L,D) DAY 6: Halong Bay Rising in the morning, we have time for an early morning dip followed by breakfast. This morning we continue to cruise around the bay to find more secluded areas to either swim or kayak in. At midday we will return to the main harbor for a 3-hour journey back to Hanoi. (B, L) DAY 7: Hanoi - Hue Enjoy your free morning in Hanoi today for shopping or just hanging around the great environment of the old quarter. In the late morning, we transfer to airport to take a short flight to Hue. In the afternoon we will visit the Citadel, containing the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City, the Emperor's private residence. We also visit the vibrant riverside market of Dong Ba. (B) Day 8: Hue Hoi An After breakfast, we enjoy our boat trip on Perfume River,visiting Thien Mu Pagoda and one of Royal Tombs. Following lunch, we board our vehicle to Danang and continue to Hoi An, via the scenic Hai Van pass. Check in Hotel and enjoy your evening. (B, L) Day 9: Hoi An Hoi An is a charming, small town which can be easily explored on foot. More than any other place in Vietnam, Hoi An retains the feeling of centuries past and is a favorite with all travelers. At noon, we gather again for, followed by a half day tour of the ancient town. (B, L) Day 10: Hoi An 13

14 Cua Dai beach is simply the best choice for today. With long stretch sandy beach and the warm sun of Middle of Vietnam, you can spend the whole day on the beach with a book on your hand. Seafood restaurants are along the coast line. (B) Day 11: Hoi An Ho Chi Minh City This morning we ll transfer to Danang, take the one-hour flight to Ho Chi Minh City. We will have an early lunch before an afternoon tour of the city including the War Remnants museum, the Reunification Palace and the Ben Thanh market. (B, L) Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City Mekong Delta This morning we drive through the Mekong Delta to the town of Cai Be, well-known for its floating market. Here we will board our private boat for a cruise along the maze of waterways and canals to Vinh Long. We will stop at the home of a Bonsai gardener for a sumptuous Delta lunch, including the popular dish of 'Elephant ear fish', before continuing our exploration of the tributaries and canals of the delta. Towards the end of the day we arrive at the home of a local family whose house is built on stilts over the water. These people will be our hosts for this evening and will tell us more about life in the Delta. (B, L, D) Day 13: Vinh Long - Ho Chi Minh City Rising early to the sounds of the Delta coming to life for another day, we ll have breakfast before boarding our riverboats once more for a cruise to Vinh Long town, stopping along the way to visit some local cottage industries. Following this we will have rendezvous with our vehicle for the drive to the town of My Tho, where we will visit the Vinh Trang pagoda, before our return to Ho Chi Minh City. Tonight we have a special time at Linh and Mai house for a traditional music performance follow by a great dine out to toast for a success trip. (B, L) Day 14: Departure day We will say goodbye after breakfast and you have time to do your last shopping before we check out and transfer to airport for the flight home. (B) Domestic flights (Hanoi Hue; Danang HCMC) Accommodation using 5 star hotels Home stay in Mai Chau and Vinh Long English speaking guide through out CAMBODIA 14

15 Classic & Luxury - Cambodia CAMBODIA ESSENTIALS 6 days Grade: Easy Best season: Year round Trip code: CCES06 Cambodia has much to offer. It would sometimes seem to experience in a single lifetime, let alone a single trip. Yet Cambodia Essentials showcases the best of this fascinating country into a memorable 6-day program. Day 1: Arrival Arrival transfer to your Hotel; Free at leisure. Day 2: Phnom Penh City Tour Morning visit to National Museum, Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda Afternoon Touesleng Museum and the Wat Phnom. Also we ll have time to visit Russian Market. (B) Day 3: To Siem Reap We ll take a short morning flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, we are met and transferred to your hotel; afternoon we will visit the oldest Rolous group of temples - Preah Ko, Bakong and Lolei temples. (B) Day 4: Siem Reap Rise up early in the morning for a wonderful sunrise at Angkor Wat. In the morning, we will explore Angkor Thom, the site of the ancient capital of the Khmer period. Visit the South Gate, Bayon, Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of Leper King. Then, we will visit Ta Prohm, which many consider to be the most charming of all the temples. We ll spend the full afternoon exploring the main Angkor Wat Temple. (B, L) Day 5: Siem Reap This morning, we ll take a boat trip on the Tonle Sap Lake to see the ancient and interesting way of life on the water. You then will have a chance to do some shopping in the Old Market. In the afternoon, we ll enjoy a drive for about 45 minutes through lovely countryside to visit Bantaey Srei and Bantaey Kdei, which many consider Bantaey Srei to be the prettiest temple. We ll enjoy a stunning sunset over Pre Rup temple. (B, L) Day 6: Departure You are free until departure. (B) English speaking tour leader through out All hotel accommodation 4 star hotels Meals detailed in the itinerary Domestic flight Phnom Penh/Siem Reap Sightseeing excursions as outlined in itinerary Classic & Luxury - Cambodia 15

16 ANGKOR EXTENSION (3 days) Grade: Easy Best season: Year round Trip code: CCSRE3 The Angkor temple complex is comprised of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, Banteay Srei, and countless other structures built between the 9th and 13th centuries when the Khmer Empire was at its peak. This trip is ideal for people with limited time as we concentrate solely on the temple complex. Day 1: Siem Reap Arriving at Siem Reap you will be transferred to your hotel. We ll start with Angkor Thom. This will include the South Gate, Bayon, the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King. From here we will move on to visit Ta Prohm (D) Day 2: Siem Reap Following breakfast this morning, we have a 45 km drive to Bantaey Srei and Bantaey Kdei. In the afternoon, we ll tour the Angkor Wat Temple before making our way to the summit of Phnom Bakheng Temple to watch the sunset. (B, L) Day 3: Siem Reap Rising early we ll return to Angkor Wat to witness the dawn of a new day over this ancient land. We then have a 2-hour boat cruise on Tonle Sap Lake. In the afternoon, there will be time for another visit to Angkor Wat or the Land Mine Museum and a stone carving workshop. The remainder of the day will be free until you are transferred to the airport for your flight out of Cambodia. (B) Accommodation with daily breakfast at 4 star hotel English speaking guide Classic & Luxury - Cambodia MAJESTIC ANGKOR (4 days) Grade: Easy 16

17 Best season: Year round Trip code: CCMJA4 On this 4 days excursion we invite you to explore the magnificent ancient ruins of Angkor. To make your stay all the more memorable we have chosen for your accommodation arguably Cambodia s most prestigious hotel, the elegant and sophisticated Grand Hotel D Angkor. Located near the small town of Siem Reap, the Angkor temple complex is comprised of countless ceremonial structures built between the 9th and 13th centuries by the once mighty Khmer Empire. Highlights include the enigmatic smiling faces of the Bayon and the vast walled citadel of Angkor Thom. The centerpiece though is Angkor Wat, the world s largest ceremonial structure with its dazzling array of beautiful bas-reliefs and ornate carvings. Day 1: Arrive in Siem Reap Arriving in Siem Reap, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. From the hotel, we set out for a tour to the Angkor Wat complex. We will begin with the Roulos group of temples including Prasat Bakong, Preah Ko, and Lo Lei. From here, we ll proceed to the hilltop temple of Phnom Bakheng, and as the end of the day we climb the imposing remains for a truly memorable sunset. (B) Day 2: Angkor temple complex After an early breakfast, we drive out to visit Pre Rup and the East Mebon on route to the exquisite Banteay Srey. We will then return to Siem Reap for some lunch. In the afternoon, we will visit the majestic Angkor Wat. It is the best preserved of all the temples and its layout and its scale are simply breathtaking (B, L) Day 3: Angkor temple complex This morning, we ll visit one of Angkor s most fascinating ruins: Ta Prohm. Ta Prohm temple s principal attraction is that it has not been rescued from the thick jungle, as the rest of Angkor Complex has. It looks much the same as it would have done when the French explorers came here 140 years ago, shrouded in undergrowth and the huge roots of old Banyan trees. After Ta Prohm, we ll head for Banteay Kdei and the nearby lake of Sras Srang the King s bath which was used for ritual bathing. This afternoon, we will visit more of the amazing Angkor complex, including Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm temple. (B, L) Day 4: Tonle Sap and Depart Siem Reap In morning, there will be the option of taking a boat trip down to Tonle Sap, Asia's largest inland lake, which swells to ten times its normal size during the wet season, or perhaps some last minute shopping before transferring to the airport for your departure flight. (B) Accommodation with daily breakfast at 4 star hotel English speaking guide Classic & Luxury - Cambodia HIGHLIGHTS OF CAMBODIA (7 days) Grade: Easy Best season: Year round 17

18 Trip code: CCHOC7 From Phnom Penh we take the hydrofoil to Siem Reap. From the water we have the chance to see how many ordinary Cambodians live in the floating villages along both sides of the river and Tonle Sap Lake. At Angkor we have 3 whole days to explore the complex; from the splendor of Angkor Wat to the enigmatic faces of the Bayon and the haunting Ta Prohm temple, enveloped in the clutches of the jungle. We also have a trip to nearby Koulen Mountain, home of the great reclining Buddha, beautiful waterfalls and numerous Siva lingas carved on the riverbed. Day 1: Phnom Penh Upon arrival you will be accompanied to your hotel. After the lunch and group meeting, we will embark on an afternoon tour of the capital city. Day 2: Phnom Penh Siem Reap Today, we will board the 5 hours hydrofoil to Siem Reap. From the water we can see how many ordinary Cambodians live in the floating villages. This afternoon, we start our discovery of Angkor with a visit to the Rolous group, the ancient capital of the 9th century. (B) Day 3: Angkor Complex This morning, we visit Angkor Thom the World of Gods that includes South Gate, the famous Bayon and Elephant terrace. In the afternoon, we will visit more sights in the before making our way to the hill top temple of Phnom Pakheng to watch the sunset over this timeless land. (B) Day 4: Angkor Complex We will drive to Koulen Mountain where we will find the great reclining Buddha and the Siva lingas carved on the riverbed. Here we have a picnic lunch before visiting Banteay Srey and Banteay Samre Temples. (B) Day 5: Angkor Complex This morning is reserved to admire the beauty of Angkor Wat. In the afternoon we visit the amazing Ta Prohm as well as the temples of Banteay Kdei. (B) Day 6: Siem Reap A change of pace today, as we visit the silk farm of Pok, the Artisan D Angkor and the Land Mine museum. In the afternoon, we ll visit the Wat Bo Pagoda and the Old market. (B) Day 7: Siem Reap Tour ends after breakfast. Transfer to airport. (B) Accommodation with daily breakfast at 5 star hotels English speaking guide 18

19 Accommodation with daily breakfast at 4 star hotels English speaking guide LAOS Classic & Luxury - Laos COLONIAL LUANG PRABANG (3 days) 19

20 Best season: Year round Trip code: LCCLP3 DAY 1: LUANG PRABANG AROUND WORLD HERITAGE SITE TEMPLES & THE TOWN OF LUANG PRABANG LUANG PRABANG Surrounded by thickly forested mountains and situated at the confluence of the Khan and Mekong Rivers, Luang Prabang has a tranquil, old world charm rarely found in Asia today. This fascinating town was the capital of the Lane Xang (million elephants) kingdom until the mid-sixteenth century. In colonial times it served as a provincial headquarters of the north. The legacy of the European presence here - well preserved French architecture and careful street planning has blended delightfully with more than 30 gilded Buddhist temples to create a town rich in atmosphere and history. Welcome to Luang Prabang! Your guide will meet you upon arrival at the airport and bring you to your hotel. Then enjoy a half-day spin around Luang Prabang and you will understand why it deserves the World Heritage title! Visit Wat Visoun, the site of impressive Thad Makmo stupa. The rounded dome is stylistically more Sinhalese than Lao. Phou Sii hill stands right in the center of this small city. Climb its 350 steps to enjoy commanding views for many miles in each direction. Wat Phu Sii sits atop the mountain, along side the skeletons of Indochina war anti-aircraft guns! Then continue on to visit Wat Mai. Built in 1796, the five-tiered roof of the wooden Sim (chapel) epitomizes the graceful Luang Prabang architectural style. Wat Xieng Thong further emphasizes & characterizes the uniqueness of Luang Prabang, its several roofs sweeping low to the ground. See also the impressive "tree of life" mosaic here. The gilt panel on the exterior of the chapel depicts semi-erotic episodes from the Ramayana. Then visit the National Museum, once a king's palace, where displayed inside is a lovely collection of personal artifacts of the royal family, including photos, musical instruments, and many gifts received from the dignitaries of foreign countries. This town is wonderful for walking, and today s excursion will help to give you your bearings! Spend the rest of the day exploring or relaxing on your own. You can find dinner at any number of clean & delicious international restaurants. Lao beer is an excellent pilsner, and many types of French wine are also available at reasonable prices. DAY 2: LUANG PRABANG OPTIONAL ALMSGIVING LOCAL STYLE MEKONG CRUISE PAK OU BUDDHA CAVES OPTIONAL MUANG SWA DISCOTHEQUE EXPERIENCE If you wish, get an early start (6:00am or so) and go watch or participate in the traditional Lao rite of Almsgiving to the monks. In the city, some 300+ monks file through silently collecting alms. This is an amazing sight and your guide will be on hand to demonstrate and explain this important ritual. Return to your hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, begin a Mekong Riverboat trip with your guide on the mighty Mekong River to visit the famous & sacred Pak Ou Buddha Caves. These caves, overlooking the confluence of the Mekong & Ou Rivers from on high, have been home to many thousands of Buddha images that were placed here by local people since 16th century, when King Setthathirat found the caves and declared them a holy spot. Today many still pay respect with this old tradition. Walk through the caves before returning to your boat and to Luang Prabang town. Enjoy lunch en route. Return to the hotel to relax or explore on your own. Luang Prabang is a wonderful walking town, and you can find dinner on your own at any number of fine international restaurants. Tonight, if you d like, have your guide escort you to the local nightlife spot Muang Swa. Part 50s prom, part 70s disco and very Lao. Places like this are rapidly disappearing in the world. Learn charming Lao circle dancing (Lamvong) techniques! You ll have to go early though; all nightlife in Laos shuts down at 11:30pm. (B,L) DAY 3: LUANG PRABANG KHUANG SII WATERFALL NEXT DESTINATION After breakfast, drive with your guide by car to the Khuang Sii Waterfall. The falls cascade over many calcified tiers and down several hundred feet into a series of cool, turquoise pools. The water here has a clear blue-green tint due to the high mineral content. You can climb the stairs and look down from various high viewpoints on the way to the top! Bring a bathing suit if you d like to swim. Afterwards, transfer to the airport for your flight onward.(b) 20

21 Accommodation with daily breakfast at 5 star hotels English speaking guide LAO ESSENTIALS (4 days) Best season: Year round Trip code: LCLE04 Classic & Luxury - Laos Laos is a country where visitors can really escape from the stress of modern life and step into the tranquility of a world dominated by Buddhism. If you're looking for a hassle-free tourist destination, experience Laos in all 21

22 its majestic beauty. Natural in almost every aspect, Laos is one of Southeast Asia's least developed nations offering the adventurous traveler a land of many surprises. This trip is design for you to discover the highlights from Vientiane to Luang Prabang. Day 1: Vientiane Upon arrival in Vientiane, you will be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy half day city tour of Vientiane to the major temples of Wat Sisaket, Wat Prakeo and the impressive That Luang Stupa. We will also see the Arch of Triumph, the National Museum and the main market. In the evening following the meal, you can enjoy an evening stroll along the banks of the Mekong River. (D) Day 2: Vientiane Luang Prabang This morning, we will take a flight to Luang Prabang. This former royal capital has a rich variety of architecture, from the old facades of French colonial homes to the glittering temple rooftops. Our day is full with visits to Wat Xieng Thong, the Golden City monastery. We will also visit the fine temple of Wat Mai, Wat Vixoun and Wat That Luang. Later in the day, we will adjourn to the Phousi Holy Hill to enjoy the excellent views of the town and a great sunset. (B, L) Day 3: Luang Prabang Today we take a trip to the Royal Palace Museum. Afterwards we will visit the morning market and the weaving village Ban Xang Khong. This will be followed by an excursion by boat on the Mekong River to the holy caves of Pak Ou. Along the way, we will have a picnic lunch before returning to Luang Prabang. (B, L) Day 4: Luang Prabang Vientiane This morning following breakfast, there will be a transfer from the hotel to the airport for your onward flight (B) Accommodation with daily breakfast at 5 star hotels English speaking guide Airfare VTE-LPQ-VTE MULTY COUNTRIES Classic & Luxury Multy Countries ESSENTIAL VIETNAM & CAMBODIA (14 days) Grade: Easy 22

23 Trip code: CEVC14 An epic adventure encompassing Vietnam and Cambodia, which is certain to stir the imagination. From the magic of the Mekong to the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor. From the history and charm of central Vietnam to the elegance of post-colonial Hanoi. This is an unforgettable journey of history and culture and can be tailored to different levels of accommodation. Day 1: Hanoi Arriving in Hanoi, our guide will be at the airport to welcome guests and transfer to the hotel. Evening at leisure. Day 2: Hanoi Today's city tour includes Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple in the Old Quarter of Hanoi. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Temple of Literature, built in the 11th century as Vietnam s first university, Fine Art Museum, Quan Thanh Temple. (B,L) Day 3: Hanoi - Halong Bay After breakfast, drive to Ha Long Bay for the overnight cruise on a deluxe junk. Begin with a seafood lunch then explore some limestone caves. In the afternoon enjoy a swim or relax in the sun on the top deck or try your hand at some kayaking. After dinner there is an option for night fishing from the boat. (B,L, D) Day 4: Halong Bay Hanoi This morning continue to move around the bay to find more secluded areas to either swim or kayak. At around midday, the boat will return to the main harbor before transferring to an awaiting vehicle for the journey back to Hanoi. (B,L) Day 5: Hue Transfer to airport for your flight to Hue. Arriving in Hue, pick up and transfer to your hotel. Today our city tour includes the mausoleum of former emperor Minh Mang, in a tranquil setting of gardens and lakes. In the afternoon visit the elaborate mausoleums of Emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh and the Imperial Citadel from where the Nguyen Dynasty ruled between 1802 and (B) Day 6: Hue - Hoi An This morning's tour starts with a boat trip on the romantically named Perfume River to visit Hue's best-known religious site, Thien Mu Pagoda. Afterwards drive to Hoi An via Danang. The scenic route climbs over the Pass of Ocean Clouds before dropping down to the wonderfully photogenic fishing village of Lang Co. On arrival in Hoi An in late afternoon, transfer to hotel (B) Day 7 Hoi An Hoi An was a major Asian trading port in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries and its picturesque architecture and relaxed lifestyle has changed little over the years. Take a walking tour of the ancient town centre to visit former merchants' houses, the 400 year-old Japanese Covered Bridge and the colorful market. Afternoon at leisure. (B) Day 8: Hoi An Ho Chi Minh City Drive to Danang and transfer to the airport for the morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City, then transfer to your hotel. Afternoon city tour includes The Reunification Palace (former Presidential Palace), Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, Lam Son Square, Ben Thanh Market, Thien Hau pagoda, The Museum of HCM. (B) Day 9: Tay Ninh - Cu Chi Tunnels Enjoy a morning drive through typical southern Vietnamese countryside to Tay Ninh Province in the west of Vietnam. At Tay Ninh visit the incredible Cao Dai Temple then in the afternoon visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters during the long struggle for independence. Return to HCMC (B,L) 23

24 Day 10: Mekong Delta Cai Be Princess Cruise Can Tho Spend the day on the beautiful Cai Be Princess exploring the fascinating life on the Mekong River. Visit a floating market, a beautiful island and dine at a superb Indochine restaurant, this trip is the ideal way to spend the day on the delta. Transfer to Can Tho to spend the night. (B,L) Day 11: Can Tho Chau Doc Morning boat cruise to visit Cai Rang floating market and see the thousands of small boats barging and jostling for positions as their owners attempt to sell their goods. Cruise through small canals. Visit the Binh Thuy old house and market. After lunch, visit Xu Lady and Thoai Ngoc Hau Temple. Visit Sam Mountain if time permits. (B,L) Day 12: Chau Doc Phnom Penh Depart for the four and half hour journey up the river to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. In the afternoon, you will visit the Royal Place, Silver Pagoda, Raung Damrei Museum and National Museum of Fine Arts, Independence monument, Central Market. (B) Day 13: Siem Reap Transfer to airport for your flight to Siem Reap and transfer to hotel. In the late afternoon visit the hill top temple of Phnom Pakheng to watch the sunset. (B) Day 14: Siem Reap (Angkor) Full day visit to the ancient royal capital of Angkor Thom: Bayon, Thommanon, Chau Say Tevoda, Terrace of Elephants and Leper king and Ta Prohm temple. Lunch. Afternoon Visit to the 7th World Heritage wonder of Angkor Wat, Ta Som, Ta Keo, Pre Rup temples. (B) Day 15: Depart Siem Reap This morning, you will visit the oldest temple in Angkor, Banteay Srei. This temple has the most interesting engravings among all the ruins. Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. (B) Internal flights (Hanoi Hue; Danang Ho Chi Minh City; Phnom Penh Siem Reap) Accommodation using 5 star hotels (except 4 star hotels in Can Tho & Chau Doc), ensuite cabin on private deluxe junk English speaking guides Classic & Luxury Multy Countries INDOCHINA ODYSSEY (18 days) Grade: Easy Trip code: CIDO18 Five hundred years ago, the first temples of Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos, were constructed. It is here that the tour begins, before we fly north-east to Vietnam, and the city of Hanoi, founded in After traveling through the different regions of this wonderfully diverse country, we head to Siem 24

25 Reap in Cambodia, from where we will visit the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor, first built as many as eleven centuries ago. Day 1 : Luang Prabang (LAOS) Arrive in Luang Prabang, the old royal capital and one of South East Asia's best kept secrets. This afternoon visit the major sights, including the King's Palace and National Museum. Day 2 : Luang Prabang In the morning drive out to the Kuang Si Waterfalls and visit a local Hmong Hill tribe village. The afternoon is free to wander at your own pace. (B) Day 3 : Luang Prabang Today you can either stroll around soaking up the atmosphere of this cultural treasure or take an optional boat trip to the Pak Ou Caves. Adorned with 4,000 statues of the Buddha, these caves are still an important site for Buddhist pilgrims today. (B) Day 4 : Luang Prabang - Vientiane Morning flight to Vientiane followed by a sightseeing tour visiting the Thatluang (Golden Stupa), Victory Gate, Si Sa Ket Museum, Hoprakeo (Emerald Bhudda House) and Simeung Temple. (B) Day 5 : Vientiane Hanoi (VIETNAM) Fly to Hanoi the capital of Vietnam. Remainder of the day at leisure. (B) Day 6 : Hanoi Full day guided tour including Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum and Presidential Palace, Temple of Literature and Fine Arts Museum. This afternoon take a 'cyclo' tour around the Old Quarter of Hanoi. This evening enjoy the traditional Vietnamese water puppet show. (B) Day 7 : Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hanoi Today head east to the Gulf of Tonkin to magnificent Halong Bay - another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Board a private junk to cruise amongst the 3,000 limestone islands, stopping to explore several caves and grottos. Later in the day drive to Hanoi and overnight. (B,L) Day 8 : Hanoi - Hue Fly to Hue, Vietnam's old capital in central Vietnam. This afternoon board a traditional long tailed dragon boat and head down the Perfume River to visit the splendid Thien Mu Pagoda and Monastery. (B) Day 9 : Hue Morning guided tour of the magnificent Imperial Citadel and Royal Relics Museum. This afternoon you may like to walk through the lively streets of central Hue and soak up the atmosphere, or stroll along the banks of the Perfume River. (B) Day 10 : Hue - Danang - Hoi An Drive over the Hai Van Mountain pass to Danang, and visit the Cham Museum. On arrival in Hoi An check into your hotel and spend the afternoon wandering the town's charming streets to orientate yourself. (B) Day 11 : Hoi An Today the choice is yours whether you wander the streets looking at the painted houses, fish markets and guild halls, or relax on the golden beaches that lie just a few miles out of town. (B) 25