2012 - Your Journey starts Phnom Penh, ends Luang Prabang
DAYS 1-2 - PHNOM PENH
On arrival in Phnom Penh, transfer to your hotel. Join new friends and your tour leader for welcome drinks and a tour briefing on the evening you arrive. Your adventure begins now and Phnom Penh offers up an array of exploits. Explore the absorbing National Museum and regal beauty at the majestic Silver Pagoda and Royal Palace. Reflect on the heartbreaking Pol Pot regime at Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields, where you gain insight into the confronting past, and then into the plight of local street children and what you can do to help, at the ChildSafe Centre.
Hotel: Sunway
DAYS 3-4 - SIEM REAP
Siem Reap, gateway to the incredible temples of Angkor, is just a short flight away. Drift across Tonle Sap Lake by boat and watch the golden rays of sundown lighting up the floating villages. With only torchlight to guide your way, edge through the jungle past the little-used eastern gate, to come upon the magnificent rays of dawn’s first light illuminating glorious temple at Angkor Wat, an unforgettable experience. An entertaining tuk-tuk ride whisks you between temples, ideal for taking photos. Marvel at the stone heads of the Bayon, and amble through the atmospheric ruins of tree-covered Ta Prohm.
Hotel: Somadevi Angkor
DAYS 5-7 - SAIGON & MEKONG DELTA
A flight to burgeoning Saigon catapults you into your foray into Vietnam. Wonder at the youthful energy of this city as you embark on a walking tour along historic Dong Khoi Street. The Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum reveal insights into Vietnam’s recent past, and the Cu Chi tunnels demonstrate the resilience of its amazing people. Meander down laneways and glide across the canals of the lush Mekong Delta, stopping at shaded orchards.
Hotel: Duxton
DAYS 8-10 - HUE & HOI AN
Fly north to Hue, and discover the historic sites of this antique city, including the Citadel and the Thien Mu Pagoda before a visit to the Spiral Foundation. A spectacular drive brings you to World Heritage listed Hoi An. Stop at traditional houses and temples and the iconic Japanese Bridge on a walking tour. Savor morning market visit with the workers at the Streets Foundation, before free time to shop, soak up the delightful atmosphere or slip away to the glistening beach. Join a fun cooking class to learn more about Vietnamese cuisine.
Hotels: Saigon Morin, Hoi An Historical
DAYS 11-13 - HALONG BAY & HANOI
After the flight to Hanoi, relax on a delightful drive to Halong City, and rest for the night. Unwind as you gently float along on our private boat, feasting on a delicious seafood lunch on board. Dive deeper into Hanoi at the ancient Temple of Literature and infamous Hanoi Hilton prison.
Hotels: Royal Lotus, Silk Path
DAYS 14-15 - VIENTIANE
A flight to Vientiane in Laos welcomes you to Asia’s most relaxed capital. Explore the city’s famous landmarks, including Wat Pha That Luang and Wat Sisaket. At the COPE centre learn about the issue of unexploded mines, and then enter a local home where you are welcomed with a traditional Baci ceremony.
Hotel: Mercure Vientiane
DAYS 16-19 - LUANG PRABANG & PAK OU CAVES
Fly north to the fabled riverside town of Luang Prabang. Enter ornate monasteries for an insight into the local culture as you chat with the monks before a fun Lao cooking class. A boat trip to the Pak Ou Caves reveals hundreds of Buddha effigies. Witness the ancient ritual of local monks collecting alms at dawn, and then visit Kuang Si falls. In the afternoon take time out for a game of petanque. On your last day, enjoy free time until your departure transfer.
Hotel: Sala Prabang (Lodge)