Deluxe option from £4019* PP
Trip code: IEX-D-19 |
Group size: Max 16, Avg 12
START Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Temples of Angkor, Saigon, Hue, Hoi An, Halong Bay, Hanoi, Vientiane, Luang Prabang FINISH
This comprehensive endeavour takes in the many delights of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. In historic Cambodia uncover the capital, Phnom Penh, before witnessing the incredible temples of Angkor. Travel from south to north through Vietnam, which unfolds to reveal bustling cities, sparkling bays, ancient relics and delectable cuisine. In Laos, experience the Asia of yesteryear, where time passes more slowly and smiling locals welcome you.
2013
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. 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: Raffles Hotel Le Royal
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 visit the unique 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: Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor
DAYS 5-7: SAIGON & MEKONG DELTA
A flight to burgeoning Saigon flings you into your foray into Vietnam. 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. Glide across the canals of the lush Mekong Delta, stopping at shaded orchards.
Hotel: Sheraton Saigon Hotel
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 Hoi An. Stop at traditional houses and temples and the iconic Japanese Bridge on a walking tour. Savour a morning market visit with the workers at the Streets Foundation, before free time to shop or slip away to the glistening beach. Join a fun cooking class to learn more about Vietnamese cuisine.
Hotels: La Residence Hotel & Spa, Life Heritage Resort
DAYS 11-13: HALONG BAY & HANOI
After the flight to Hanoi, relax on a delightful drive to Halong City. Unwind as you gently float along on a private boat, feasting on a delicious seafood lunch on board. Delve deeper into Hanoi at the ancient Temple of Literature and infamous ‘Hanoi Hilton’ prison.
Hotels: Novotel Halong Bay, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
DAYS 14-15: VIENTIANE
Fly to Vientiane and explore Wat Pha That Luang and Wat Sisaket. At the COPE centre learn about the issue of unexploded mines, and then enter a local home for a traditional Baci ceremony.
Hotel: Green Park Boutique Hotel
DAYS 16-19: LUANG PRABANG & PAK OU CAVES
Fly 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 local monks collecting alms at dawn, then visit Kuang Si Falls. Take time out for a game of petanque with the locals. On your last day, enjoy free time until your departure transfer.
Hotel: Luang Say Residence
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