(15 days /14 nights)

Ho Chi Minh - Mekong Delta - Danang - Hoian - Hue - Hanoi - Halong Bay - Vientiane - Luang Prabang - Pak Ou cave - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap - Angkor Temples

This trip is ideally designed for those who wish to experience the dynamic atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City, the tranquil backwaters of the Mekong Delta, the history of Hoi An, the majesty of Hue, the faded colonial elegance of Hanoi and the sheer wonder of Halong Bay. The impressive town of Luang Prabang and the stone monument of Angkor temples are also highlights of the trip

       HIGHLIGHTS

       . Ho Chi Minh

       . Mekong Delta

       . Charming Hoian Town

       . Historic Hue City

       . Hanoi

       . Halong Bay

       . Vientiane

       . Luang Prabang

       . Pak Ou cave

       . Phnom Penh

       . Siem Reap

       . Angkor Temples

Day 1 : Arrival - Ho Chi Minh

Upon arrival at Tan San Nhat Airport, you are picked up and transferred to hotel. Ho Chi Minh City, still called Saigon by many locals, is a center of commerce, finance, culture and tourism in Vietnam. This bustling metropolis, contradiction of its northern counterpart, is crowded with bikes and motorbikes, excited by numerous shopping areas and sidewalk cafés. (If time permits) we stroll around the downtown to explore the different local ways of life. O/N in Ho Chi Minh.

Day 2 : Ho Chi Minh - Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh

Heading out of the town, we travel by road to My Tho Province. On arrival, we embark on a boat navigating around the small canals in the Mekong Delta, which is a great way to observe the local lifestyle close-up. We pass through the lush green vegetation before arriving at an orchard where there are some opportunities to visit the various fascinating local industries. After feasting on a huge lunch followed with seasonal fruits, we return to Ho Chi Minh, stopping off along the way to see the beautiful Vinh Trang Pagoda. O/N in Ho Chi Minh. (B,L)

Day 3: Ho Chi Minh - Danang - Hoian

The sightseeing tour of Ho Chi Minh commences with the Reunification Palace which was the former residence of the President of South Vietnam until end of April 1975. Close to the Palace are some striking French colonial structures such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and  the Old Sai Gon Post Office. After seeing the Jade Emperor Pagoda and the War Remnant Museum we board a short flight to Danang. On arrival in Danang airport we are greeted and driven a short distance to Hoian which was originally a Cham seaport but has been influenced down centuries by a myriad of traders from various cultures. A tour of this delightful town introduces us to the famous Japanese Covered Bridges, the Pottery Museum, the 200 years old Tamky House, the Chua Ong Pagoda and the vibrant market. We visit  these sights on an enchanting walking tour past many low tiled houses scattered along the small streets, and assembly halls which reflect the town's multi-cultural past. O/N in Hoi An. (B)

Day 4: Hoian - Hue

Upon leaving HoiAn we set off on a scenic drive north to Hue, the last imperial capital of Vietnam. Along the way we explore the sensational Marble Mountains  and the China Beach before continuing to the interesting Cham Museum in Danang City. The winding road begins as we  make our way up the spectacular Hai Van Pass. At the top of the pass  we will stop  to admire a fantastic view north to Lang Co and south to Danang. Arriving in Hue we will visit the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City. This royal residence was all but destroyed during the 1968 Tet Offensive, however it is still fascinating to walk among the ruins. O/N in Hue. (B)

Day 5: Hue - Hanoi

The beautiful pagoda of Thien Mu which now becomes the symbol of Hue, and the elaborate royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc are not to be missed. We include these in a guided cruise on the Perfume River which also gives us a taste of the scenic countryside. After the impressive river trip we take a short flight north. Ha Noi, Vietnam's capital, is a stylish and gracious city that retains an unique old world charm and some Asia ‘s most striking colonial architecture. On arrival Noi Bai airport you are met and transferred to hotel. After a short rest we visit the beautiful lake of Hoan Kiem with its sacred temple and the vibrant Dong Xuan Market, which boasts Hanoi's oldest and largest market. A perfect way to finish the day is to enjoy a short cyclo excursion through the many bustling old quarter streets named after the specific goods once offered for sales at these places. O/N in Ha Noi. (B)

Day 6: Hanoi - Halong Bay

After breakfast, we enjoy a half day city tour starting with the Ho Chi Minh Complex,  containing the mausoleum of the nation’s founder Ho Chi Minh, the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts. This complex also comprises the One Pillar Pagoda, whose origins date back to the foundation of Hanoi. We follow this with a trip to the Temple of Literature, well known as Vietnam’s first university, and the History Museum which displays an excellent collection of artifacts illustrating the Vietnamese history. In the afternoon we travel by roads through the charming countryside to Ha Long Bay with stop over at Dong Trieu pottery village. O/N in Ha Long. (B)

Day 7: Halong Bay - Hanoi

The legendary Ha Long Bay is truly one of Vietnam’s most impressive scenic sights. Today we embark on a sailing boat for an exploration of this wondrous bay, which is dotted with some 1,969 limestone islands rising amazingly from the clear and emerald water. The limestone karst formations are littered with beaches, grottoes and beautiful caves. Along the way we will anchor for a leisurely swim in a secluded cove and an enjoyable visit to one of the many hidden grottoes beneath towering cliffs. After a seafood lunch on board we make our way back to Ha Noi, arriving in time to see an evening performance of Hanoi's famous water puppets. O/N in Ha Noi. (B,L)

Day 8: Hanoi - Vientiane

An impressive way of commencing our day is a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake at dawn, where hundreds of people  come to do their morning exercise (optional). After breakfast we have free time until  transferring to airport for a flight to Vientiane. The charming and fascinating capital of Laos, Vientiane is located on the banks of the Mekong River. This small city conjures up exotic images, with the curious mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French influences. A city tour includes the oldest Wat Sisaket with thousands of miniature Buddha statues and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. On the way to the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, we stop to take some pictures of the imposing Patouxai Monument which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph. O/N in Vientiane. (B)

Day 9: Vientiane - Luang Prabang

The royal capital  of the former Lane Xang Kingdom, Luang Prabang with its gleaming temple roofs, fading colonial architecture and stunning mountain backdrop  retains an unique charm rarely found in all Asia. This morning we take a short  flight to Luang Prabang. There is plenty to see in this delightful town, some of which are the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, the shrine of Wat Aham and Wat Mai with five tiered roofs. We include these sights in a half day guided tour which ends with a climb to Phousi Hill for a beautiful sunset view  of the town and the Mekong River. There  are 329 steps leading us on zigzag way past various temples to the sacred, gilded stupa of Wat Phousi at the summit. O/N in Luang Prabang. (B)

Day 10: Luang Prabang - Pak Ou Cave - Luang Prabang

Today we continue seeing this town with the city’s oldest temple of Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong, which nestles at the meeting of the Mekong and the Nam Khan River. The temple structures are decorated in various ways with gilded stuccoes and doorways while the main sim has a marvellous 'tree life' mosaic pattern on an outer wall. We  board a boat for a leisurely trip on the Mekong River. Upon leaving this village we wave our wave through the stunning mountain landscape to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. They are  crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes, all brought there by devout villagers. Along the way, we stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, where they make the local rice wine. After the river trip we drive  towards Ban Phanom and visit the hand weaving. O/N in Luang Brabang. (B,L)

Day 11: Luang Prabang - Vientiane

The exploration of Luang Prabang would not be complete without a visit to the national museum at the former Royal Palace. This interesting structure displays a lovely collection of treasures and artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through the last sovereign.  We then spend our time wandering through the charming streets until transferring to the airport for a short flight back to Vientiane. On arrival we head out to see the impressive Friendship Bridge which links Laos and Thailand, and the Buddha Park. This landmark represents a blend of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures created by mystical monk on a parkland located by the Mekong River. A perfect way to round off the day is to watch the spectacular sunset over the Mekong River from one of riverside bars. O/N in Vientiane. (B)

Day 12: Vientiane - Phnom Penh

The following destination of our trip is Phnom Penh which was once considered the loveliest city of Indochina. Despite its recent turbulent history, it still maintains considerable charm. After a short flight we arrive in Phnom Penh and enjoy our city tour. The private quarters of the Royal Palace are now home to the royal family and are therefore very close to the public. At the northern area of the palace grounds is Silver Pagoda, well known for its 5000 silver tiled floor. We visit both structures as well as the National Museum for an appreciation of the splendour of Khmer history. Heading out of this area we explore the legendary temple of Wat Phnom, which provides an interesting view over the surroundings. O/N in Phnom Penh. (B)

Day 13 : Phnom Penh - Siem Reap - Angkor Temples

An early morning transfer to airport for flight to Siem Reap. This town is our base for exploring the world famous temples of the ancient city Angkor, which was the capital of the powerful Khmer Empire from 802 AD to 1350 AD. After checking into hotel, we drive to the archeological area to visit the South Gate of Angkor Thom, which is famous for its series of colossal human faces carved in stone, the impressive Bayon Temple, the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of Leper King and the largest as well as most complete structure of Angkor Wat. We stroll around this massive monument, exploring the many galleries with columns, libraries, pavilions, courtyards and ponds full of water reflecting the towering temple. O/N in Siem Reap. (B)

Day 14 : Siem Reap - Angkor Temples

The jungle covered temple of Ta Prohm is an incredible sight. There are enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers which embrace themselves in the stone foundations of the structure giving the impression of man's creation being reclaimed by the powerful forces of nature.  We explore this masterpiece as well as some of the surrounding temples including Banteay Kdei, Sra Srong, Ta Keo, Thommanon and Chau Say Tevado. The grand circuit with Preah Khan, Kravan, Neak Pean, Krol Ko, Ta Som, East Mebon and Pre Rup Temples, is also visited this afternoon before we walk up to Phnom Bakheng Hill for a view of the spectacular sunset over these sandstone monuments. O/N in Siem Reap. (B)

Day 15 : Siem Reap - Departure

This morning we take a short cruise on Tonle Sap Lake, Cambodia’s biggest natural lake. Along the way we stop to visit a floating village and catch a glimpse of fishermen at work. This excursion is all depending on your departure time . The trip ends after your transfer to Siem Reap Airport for departure. (B)

INCLUDING: Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle with driver +  Meal as mentioned: B = breakfast, L = Lunch, D = dinner + Accommodation:  twin sharing room at the below  mentioned hotel or similar one  + English or French speaking guide +  Entrance fee to indicated sights + Boat trip in  Mekong Delta ,  Hue, Halong , Luang Prabang, Siem Reap +  Flight ticket: Ho Chi Minh - Danang, Hue - Hanoi, Hanoi - Vientiane - Luang Prabang - Vientiane - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap + Cyclo trip & Water puppet show.

NOT INCLUDING : Other meals, tip, drinks, airport tax, single room supplement, personal expenses, travel insurance, visa to Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia, flight in/ out Indochina, any optional additional tours or activities during free time.

TRIP NOTES:

     The itinerary is corrected at the time of viewing. Occcasionally, our itineraries change as we make improvement that stem from our past traveller's comments and our own research or due to local conditions or circumstances beyond our control. This includes festival, pubplic holidays, weather and flight delay,... that may effect the itinerary.

   Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia are developing countries whose infrastructure, values, customs, standard may different from what you expect in your home land. Road condition are poor, accommodation and transportation may be basic in remote area.

      Daily breakfast (B) and 03 lunches (L) are included on this trip. Other meals are at client’s expenses. However, the trip with full board meal is arranged upon request.

     The dress standards are conservative thoughout Asia. Loose, lightweight, long clothing are all respectful and cool in Asian hot climate. In addition to your items of personal clothing, we suggest you to bring trainer or sneaker shoes, jacket for cold weather, torch/flash light, hat, rain coat for wet season, sun cream, sunglasses, daypack, toiletries and small towel, insect repellent.

      During the dry season (May - July) the low level of the Tonle Sap River does not permit a cruise   to the fishing village on the Tonle Sap. The excursion will be replaced by a visit to the Chantiers Ecoles, a non-profit organisation who teaches the Cambodian children to learn the skill of arts such as carving, paintings.

       Departure place could be changed upon client’s request.