23 Days Bangkok to Siem Reap Join us on a journey through the incredible countries of Indochina from bustling Bangkok and the hill tribes of Chiang Rai to enchanting Luang Prabang in Laos and on through Vietnam s spectacular Halong Bay and historic cities to Cambodia, home to the stunning temples of Angkor. HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS Trip Highlights Cu Chi Tunnels - HQ of the Viet Cong Bangkok - Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Original Thai Massage School, 24hr Flower Market & Khao San Road Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep and the summit temple, Hilltribe Museum and the night market Ta Thon - karst scenery, lush jungle landscapes Wat Rhon Khung - the modern and unusual White Temple Chiang Rai - night market, hill tribe villages of the Karen tribe, Mae Sai, Chiang Saen and the Opium Museum Chiang Khong - Thai/Laos border town Mekong River - cruising from Chiang Khong to Lao town of Pak Beng Luang Prabang - Wat Visoun, Wat Aham, Ock Pop Tok weaving centre, former Royal - 23 Days Palace, Khouangsi waterfall, Wat Sene, Wat Xieng Thong and Pak Ou caves Hanoi - Hoan Kiem Lake and Ancient Quarter Halong Bay - UNESCO Listed World Heritage Site Hue - Imperial Citadel, Royal Tombs & Thien Mu Pagoda Hoi An - UNESCO Listed ancient town Saigon - Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Post Office and War Remnants Museum Mekong Delta - Cai Be waterways, cottage industries and mansion home & Cai Rang floating markets Phnom Penh - Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, Toul Sleng and Killing Fields Siem Reap - Angkor National Museum and the temples of Angkor including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, Bayon Temple and Banteay Srei Tonle Sap Lake and the floating villages of Kampong Phluk The Phare NGO circus project What's Included Boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake 22 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 3 dinners 20 nights 3-4 star & special class hotels, 1 night deluxe junk boat and 1 overnight sleeper train (Junk boat: private cabin, Sleeper train: basic, 4 berth cabin) Economy class flights Bangkok - Chiang Mai, Luang Prabang - Hanoi, Danang - Saigon, Phnom Penh - Seim Reap Longtail boat ride in Bangkok, on the River Kok and from Thailand to Laos. Sampan boat trips in the Mekong Delta Halong Bay Junk boat cruise - opt to swim, kayak or explore caves Bicycle ride to Tra Que village and cooking demonstration Airport arrival transfer day 1 and departure transfer day 23 Guided sightseeing - Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Luang Prabang, Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Mekong Delta, Saigon, Cu Chi, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and the temples of Angkor Escorted by English speaking Thai, Lao, Vietnamese and Cambodian tour guides All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles Visa approval letter (excl. stamping fee required upon arrival) What's Not Included Tipping Kitty: USD$95-105, paid in USD Entrance Fees: USD$200-220, paid in USD International flights and visa. Vietnam visa letter included - stamping fee required upon arrival Tip for your tour guides. We recommend you allow USD$3-6 per day, per traveller. Tipping your guides is an entirely personal gesture -1-
ITINERARY Day 5 : Into Laos Days 1-2 : Discover Bangkok Friday. Welcome to Thailand! Airport arrival transfer to hotel. Evening Welcome Meeting. The following day enjoy a city tour of Bangkok taking in the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Flower Market. Enjoy a longtail boat ride on the canals before exploring pulsating Khao San Road. Overnight - Bangkok (B:1) Day 3 : Northern Thailand Bangkok - Chiang Mai. On morning of day 3 transfer to airport for flight to Chiang Mai. After lunch visit the Doi Suthep temple and the Hilltribe Museum to learn more about the diversity of this region. In the evening visit the night market. Overnight - Chiang Mai (B) Day 4 : White Temple of Chiang Rai Chiang Mai - Chiang Rai - Chiang Khong. Today we set out for Chiang Rai, passing through spectacular mountain scenery and hill tribe markets along the way. We make a stop at the unconventional White Temple, known locally as Wat Rhon Khung, which displays scenes from modern day movies. We then visit a hill tribe community site where you have the chance to learn more about how five of the most prominent tribes in the area live, including their traditional costumes and homes. We continue our journey to the Thailand s Golden Triangle for a trip to the Opium Museum. We then follow the Mekong River to Chiang Khong - our base for the night before crossing the border into Laos tomorrow morning. Overnight - Chiang Khong (B) Tuesday. Chiang Khong - Pakbeng. Bright and early we head to the immigration & customs office to exit Thailand. Bidding farewell to our Thai guide we cross the river by longtail boat. Meeting up with our Lao guide we attend to immigration formalities before we're back on the water, cruising by traditional long boat down the Mekong River. Serene and timeless Laos is often overlooked by travellers. A peaceful nation of people offering legendary hospitality, resilience and friendliness, Laos is old Asia preserved. As we travel downstream we stop off at a number of minority villages such as the Hmong, Yao and Khmu to get an understanding of their culture and way of life. Upon arrival in Pakbeng, we visit the local market to watch the colourful hill tribe trade their wares before retiring for the night. Overnight - Pakbeng (B, L, D) Days 6-7 : Luang Prabang Pakbeng - Luang Prabang. We continue our cruise arriving to the golden city of Luang Prabang mid afternoon. Tomorrow, opt for an early start early to see the daily ritual of saffronclad monks and their procession down the streets of Luang Prabang collecting alms from the residents. Then a morning tour, takes in the highlights of Luang Prapang - the fabulous UNESCO Listed former royal capital. Sightseeing includes the ancient temples of Wat Visoun and Wat Aham, Ock Pop Tok weaving centre and the beautifully ornate former Royal Palace. In the afternoon we stop at ethnic minority villages before arriving at the beautiful Khouangsi waterfall. Overnight - Luang Prabang (B:2, L:1) Days 8-9 : Fly to Hanoi Luang Prabang - Hanoi. On the morning of day 8 we head out of town to a local farm to learn about the production of rice. After lunch we cruise up the Mekong River to visit - 23 Days the incredible Pak Ou caves crammed with Buddha images of all shapes and sizes, stopping Ban Xanghai village en route to sample local rice wine. Later we return to Luang Prabang stopping along the way at Ban Phanom village - known for its hand weaving, before boarding our evening flight to Hanoi. The following day offers free time for you to explore Vietnam s gracious capital. Lively markets, beautiful lakes, ancient pagodas and the thriving, historic city are all easily navigatable by foot. Overnight Hanoi (B:2, L:1) Day 10 : Junk boat cruising Hanoi Halong Bay. Take a moment to picture in your mind some two thousand rugged karst islands dappled with lush vegetation seeming to float on top of pristine emerald coloured waters and you have the natural wonder that is Halong Bay. This morning a scenic drive will take us to this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site where we will enjoy a junk boat cruise. Based on traditional designs, these wonderful vessels combine oriental style with modern luxury. Soak up the panoramic views from the sundeck as the boat gently plies its course, this afternoon we will visit the spectacular Tien Ong Cave which was recently opened to the public in 2010, with its stunning stalagmites and stalactites. Later this evening back on board, watch a Vietnamese cooking demonstration held on the sundeck before settling down for a sumptuous seafood dinner. Overnight - Halong Bay, Deluxe Junk Boat (B, L, D) -2-
Day 11 : Floating villages and cyclo rides Day 12 : Imperial Hue a sampan we cruise to Cai Be through lush waterways visiting cottage industries along the way. Overnight - Can Tho (B, L) Day 17 : Saigon Halong Bay - Hanoi - Hue. Early birds can start the day with a relaxing Tai Chi class on the sundeck or a traditional massage - the perfect way to start the day. Before heading back to port we'll explore by kayak the Floating Village of Cua Van, which is home to generations of fishing families. Here we ll see the traditional and colourful floating wooden houses and the locals going about their daily lives. On our arrival back into Hanoi mid-afternoon we'll explore the maze of streets known as the 36 streets of the old quarter, named after the numerous guilds that once set up shop on a particular street from silk tailors to silversmiths. Travelling by cyclo (rickshaw), the quintessential mode of transport in Hanoi, we'll see traditional narrow-front tube houses with the chance to sample some of the local delicacies sold on street stalls from ripe fruits to steaming noodle dishes. Later this evening there's a chance to freshen up before boarding the train (4 berth sleeper cabin, basic standard) on the Reunification Express railway line to Hue. An option to fly from Hanoi to Hue is also available. Overnight - Sleeper train (B) Today discover the delights of Hue visiting the Thien Mu Pagoda, home to the oldest monastery in the city, whose 21m high tower has become something of a symbol for Hue and the citadel. Within the citadel is the Imperial Purple Palace, an exact copy of the Forbidden City in Beijing, with its impressive ramparts, formal moats and imperial palaces, some of which lay in ruin. In the countryside lies the Royal Tombs of the Nguyen kings, here we ll view the elaborate mausoleums of Emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. As the sun sets opt for a cruise in a long boat along the gentle Perfume River, beautifully illuminated at night. Overnight - Hue (B, L) Days 13-15 : Delightful Hoi An Hue - Road of the Ocean Clouds - Hoi An. En route to Hoi An we stop for a stroll along China Beach. Enjoy a short afternoon walking tour of the historic Hoi An old town with its cobbled streets. On day 16 we take a bicycle ride to the rural village of Tra Que where we ll assist with tending the fields and cooking lunch. Spend the following day at leisure. Overnight - Hoi An (B:3, L:1) Hoi An - Saigon - Can Tho. Fly to Saigon and drive to the mighty Mekong Delta. Onboard Days 18-19 : Phnom Penh Saigon - Phnom Penh. This morning we visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a sprawling underground network of tunnels and living quarters used by the Viet Cong during the war. Then we drive to the Cambodian border (crossing at Moc Bai/Bavet) and continue on to the capital of Phnom Penh (Monday). On day 19 enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of Phnom Penh including the National Museum of Fine Arts, the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, famed for its lavish decorations. We later come face to face with the horrors of the Pol Pot regime as we visit Toul Sleng (Security Prison - S21) and the Killing Fields where over 10,000 people were executed. Overnight - Phnom Penh (B:2, D:1) Day 16 : Cruise the Mekong - 23 Days Can Tho - Saigon. Today we visit the floating markets of Cai Rang before driving to Saigon. This afternoon we see the sights of Saigon on a walking tour including the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, the Old Post Office and the sombering War Remnants Museum. Overnight - Saigon (B) Day 20 : Angkor Wat Phnom Penh Siem Reap. Hotel check out and transfer to the airport for our included flight to Siem Reap. After time to freshen -3-
up we visit the Angkor National Museum - a fascinating archaeological museum dedicated to the collection, preservation and presentation of Angkorian artifacts and Khmer civilisation, with collections mainly dated from Khmer Empire's Angkor period circa 9th to 14thcentury. This evening you're guaranteed to be entertained watching the incredible Phare Cambodian Circus. The Phare NGO circus project trains street kids to become talented circus artists and the popular show blends circus skills with interpretations of modern life and issues in Cambodian society. Overnight - Siem Reap (B) Day 22 : Lake Tonle Sap This afternoon we explore iconic Angkor Wat, easily the most famous and best-preserved of all the temples within the Angkor complex. It is a massive three-tiered structure crowned by five lotus-like towers rising 65 meters from ground level. Believed to be the largest religious building in the world, Angkor Wat contains thousands of wall carvings and extensive basreliefs. Spend the evening at leisure. There are plenty of great bars and restaurants in the compact city centre which is easily navigated on foot. Overnight - Siem Reap (B) Day 21 : Angkor Thom & NGO circus project Amora Hotel Chiang Mai This morning we drive to Kampong Phluk, a cluster of three villages of stilt houses built within the floodplain of Tonle Sap Lake. After a boat trip on the lake we return to Siem Reap for free time. Pick up some last minute souvenirs at the central market or head down to lively Pub Street. Note: Between Feb - July the water levels at Kompong Phluk village maybe too low to go boating, if so, we will visit Chong Kneas floating village where it will still be possible to go boating. Afternoon and evening at leisure. Overnight - Siem Reap (B) Early this morning opt to see Angkor Wat bathed in the spectacular golden light of sunrise. Then we drive out to see the well-preserved temples of Banteay Srei, stopping at an exotic butterfly sanctuary, and the village of Preak Dak where we support a community tree planting initiative (if travelling after 01 Jan 2018) along the way. After we return to the Angkor Temple Complex to explore the ancient city of Angkor Thom. The last capital of the Great Khmer Empire, it is home to the fascinating Bayon Temple, the Baphuon royal enclosure and the Terraces of the Elephants and Leper King. We continue on to Tra Prohm Temple, which unlike the other temples here has been left in the same ruined state that it was first discovered in with a tangle of trees growing out of its ruins. - 23 Days designed with sleek glass panels giving a luxurious feel. Complimentary high speed internet is available. The dining options are simple yet sophisticated. Head to the Rama restaurant for delicious Thai and international cuisine or spend an evening at the Silom Sky Bar - a gorgeous roof top pool with stunning views of the city to marvel at. Centrally located in the of Silom just 5 minutes from the Sky Train. Close to the Tapae Gate, Amora Hotel Chiang Mai is a modern property with great amenities. Guest rooms are designed in the modern Northern Thai (Lanna) style and come with air conditioning, TV, mini bar and room service. The hotel also boasts a refreshing outdoor pool and fitness centre as well as Chili's restaurant serving up a delicious array of transitional Thai and international cuisine. The Lobby Lounge Bar and Pool Bar are great places to enjoy a cocktail at the end of the day. Day 23 : Siem Reap - your way Saturday. Today marks the end of our holiday. Lap up the hotel facilities this morning before hotel check out and included departure transfer to the airport.(b) HOTELS The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard when necessary. Furama Silom An elegant flagship hotel, the Furama Silom tastefully combines classic Thai style with contemporary design. Guest rooms are well Teak Garden Hotel On the banks of the Mekong River, the Chaing Khong Teak House offers comfortable accommodation. Guest rooms are spacious with comfortable facilities and private balconies. Complimentary wi-fi is available throughout and the onsite restaurant offers a selection of cuisine in an al fresco setting right on the river. If staying here in the winter be sure to ask for an extra blanket or too it can get quite nippy! Well located in Chiang Khong just a 5 minute drive to the border with the Laos. -4-
for a refreshing dip and wonderful views across the city. environment right on the banks of the Thu Bon river with top notch facilities. Bhaya Classic Junk Boat Iris Hotel This premier cruise boat offers 18 well appointed cabins with en suite amenities. Cabins are contemporary in design, whilst the finer touches have a distinct oriental influence. All cabins feature large windows creating a bright and airy atmosphere as well as scenic views. Facilities and services onboard include a dining room and bar, a sunbathing area ondeck, masseur and small library. This boat departs from the port of Halong City and plies This elegant hotel is housed within a modern building in the city of Can Tho. Each guest room comes equipped with plush furnishings to ensure a good night's sleep and is decorated with a neutral palate and calming tones. Rooms look over the city and boast a range of modern amenities such as air conditioning and stylish ensuite facilities. Magnificent views of the city can be had from the hotel's skybar while a range of gourmet local and its route through the karst peaks of Halong Bay during their journey and overnight stay on the water. international dishes can be sampled at the onsite restaurant. The accommodation is just a few kilometres from the Cai Rang floating market. Pakbeng Lodge Looking over the Mekong, Pakbeng Lodge offers rustic yet stylish accommodation. Guest rooms are designed in a simple wooden style with comfortable beds and private balconies looking over the river. Complimentary wi-fi is available in the lobby/bar/restaurant area and meals are served here too. Breakfast has a distinct French touch which is unsurprising given that the manager is from Paris. Take a long boat to the other side of the river and explore the Elephant Camp our top tip! Perfectly located on the banks of the Mekong in Pakbeng. The town centre is a few minutes walk away. Santi Resort and Spa Set just outside the main town of Luang Prabang, the Santi Resort and Spa is a modern property set in manicured gardens. Guest rooms are set on two levels and are spacious with excellent amenities. Meals are served in the main restaurant and the outdoor pool is perfect for a cooling afternoon dip. If you need to get into town then take advantage of the free shuttle service that runs nearly every hour. Located on the outskirts of Luang Prabang. The Ann Hotel In the centre of Hanoi sits the contemporary and sophisticated The Ann hotel. Guest rooms are spacious and well appointed with delightful en suite facilities including bath and shower. The hotel boasts both a bar and restaurant. The swanky A lounge offers a wonderful selection of beverages and diners can enjoy the Onyx house for delicious local and international dishes on A la carte or buffet style. Our top tip is to head to the roof top pool - 23 Days Mondial Hotel Just a 5 minute walk from the Ho Chi Minh museum, the Mondial Hotel is a contemporary hotel with excellent amenities. Guest rooms benefit from spacious interiors, comfortable beds and lots of mod-cons. There is complimentary Wi-Fi for guests, an outdoor pool and onsite spa - perfect for a re laxing massage. As well as the delicious Huong Xuan Restaurant there is also the Lobby Lounge great for cocktails before dinner! Northern Hotel Located in Saigon's central business district, the Northern Hotel offers comfortable and stylish accommodation. Guest rooms are contemporary in style and are decorated with warming tones and excellent en suite facilities. The onsite restaurant offers a variety of European and Asian dishes set on the mezzanine floor. The hotel also offers complimentary use of computers in the lobby and a fully equipped gym for those who wish keep fit whilst staying in the city. Vinh Hung Riverside Resort Vinh Hung Riverside Resort offers luxury and gracious hospitality in a traditional Vietnamese Harmony Phnom Penh Hotel -5-
Just 5 minutes from the Royal Palace, the Harmony Hotel in Phnom Penh is an elegant hotel with a great location. The spacious rooms feature plush furnishings with a smart decor of dark wood flooring and white walls with accents of colour. The hotel features a rooftop infinity pool and Jacuzzi with views across the river and the city, a perfect spot to relax after a busy day sightseeing. Guests can dine on a choice of Asian and Western dishes at the hotel's restaurant and enjoy a wide selection of beverages. the 'Twin/Double' price. If you are happy to be paired up with another single traveller of the same sex on your tour, this can be arranged provided there is another single traveller booked on the tour date of your choosing. If a roommate cannot be found the single room supplement will apply. PRICES / DATES 2017 15 Dec 22 Dec 29 Dec PRICES / DATES 2018 Angkor Paradise Hotel Not far from Angkor Wat, the Angkor Paradise Hotel offers elegant accommodation in a world famous setting. Guest rooms are beautifully firnished with traditional wooden floors and all mod cons. All rooms have either fabulous views of the city or the hotel's outdoor pool. The hotel also boats a great onsite restaurant, fitness centre and pool terrace. The Angkor Paradise Hotel is situated a short distance from Siem Reap international airport and the majestic Angkor Archaeological Park. PRICES / DATES INFO Departure dates noted with a 'G' are guaranteed to operate. All other departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. Prices shown are per person travelling. 'Twin/Double' prices per person apply when there are 2 people travelling, sharing a room. The ' supplement' applies for single travellers who require their own room and needs to be added to - 23 Days 12 Jan 26 Jan 09 Feb 23 Feb 09 Mar 23 Mar 06 Apr 27 Apr 11 May 25 May 08 Jun 22 Jun 06 Jul 20 Jul 27 Jul 10 Aug 24 Aug 07 Sep 21 Sep 05 Oct 19 Oct 02 Nov 16 Nov 30 Nov 21 Dec 28 Dec PRICES / DATES 2019 15 Mar 29 Mar 12 Apr 03 May 17 May 07 Jun 21 Jun 05 Jul 19 Jul 09 Aug 30 Aug 13 Sep 04 Oct 18 Oct 01 Nov 15 Nov 29 Nov 13 Dec 20 Dec PRICES / DATES 2019 11 Jan 01 Feb 15 Feb 01 Mar -6-