Asia Experience

Today's journey through rural Cambodia brings us to Phnom Penh, Cambodia's bustling capital city with a very turbulent past. Sitting on the juncture of the Mekong River and the Tonle Sap river, Phnom Penh has been the national capital since the French colonised Cambodia during the 19th century. The city has grown from a small fishing village to what is now the industrial, commercial, cultural and historical centre of Cambodia.

Phnom Penh is a welcoming and friendly city, abundant with culture, arts and music, far removed from the darker chapters in the country's history.

At night, why not head down to the riverside to experience the international and local cuisine scene and a slow cold Cambodian beer.

Included Excursions

Guided tour of the Killing Fields and S21 Genocide Museum

Optional Excursions

Royal Palace – US$10 • National Museum – US$10 • The Silver Pagoda – US$3 • Wat Phnom – US$2

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Pacific Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Today we visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former school which was transformed into one of the Khmer Rouge's most feared prison and torture camps during the Pol Pot regime. The building is now a haunting tribute to the thousands who died here and at the other 150 similar camps throughout the country in the late 1970's. Those who were detained at the camp were later taken and executed at the Choeung Ek extermination Centre, more commonly known as "The Killing Fields", a site we also visit to learn more of and try to understand this wonderful country's turbulent past.

Whilst the aforementioned visits are included in the tour they are also entirely optional should anybody prefer not to visit, in which case you will be free to further explore other activities and landmarks in the city.

Optional Excursions

Royal Palace – US$10 • National Museum – US$10 • The Silver Pagoda – US$3 • Wat Phnom – US$2

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Pacific Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Today we travel South along the Mighty Mekong River by boat with our final destination being Vietnam and the border town of Chau Doc , the gateway to the Mekong Delta.

In Chau Doc you can enjoy your first authentic Vietnamese meal and a stroll along the Mekong River before retiring for the night and a brief, yet welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of South East Asian city life.

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Hung Cuong Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Continuing our journey today through the Mekong Delta, we head into the incredible city of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, Vietnam's largest city and former capital of South Vietnam.

Still known as Saigon to many locals, Ho Chi Minh is a large city and with much to do. We head into our hotel in the Old Quarter to be located right in the middle of the action.

Optional Excursions

Early morning boat trip to the Floating Market and Local Village – price varies depending on numbers

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at La Felix Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

The bustling city of Ho Chi Minh is the former capital of South Vietnam and formerly known as Saigon until the end of the Vietnam War (around 1975) and the infamous ‘Fall of Saigon” when the city was renamed after North Vietnam’s illustrious and revered leader Ho Chi Minh. Originally a small fishing village, it is now the most important economic centre in Vietnam and is the largest city in the country.

We start our exploration of this captivating city with a local walking tour where we will visit Ben Thanh Market, Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral & Post Office, Independence Palace and the War Remnants Museum.

Included Excursions

Local walking tour of Ho Chi Minh City including entrance to the War Remnants Museum

Optional Excursions

The Reunification Palace – VND 40,000 • Cu Chi Tunnels - VND 235,000

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at La Felix Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Hoi An is widely considered one of the most colourful and beautiful towns in Vietnam. Largely spared of damage during the Vietnamese conflict, the old trading port of Hoi An is a UNESCO Heritage town offering an amazing central old town with small friendly streets dotted with an abundance of family run shops, restaurants and coffee shops. Whether you want to stop for a nice cheap beer while watching the sun set over the river or splash out on an incredible seafood supper, Hoi An has it all within walking distance.

This afternoon we will enjoy a short orientation of the area followed by a bike tour of the nearby paddy fields and beach.

Included Excursions

Bicycle ride to Hoi An Beach

Optional Excursions

Old Town Sightseeing ticket (entry to 5 sites) – VND 120,000 • My Son Cham ruins – VND 150,000 entrance, plus transport with guide from US$8 • Cookery class – from VND 250,000 • Tu Bon River boat trip – US$10 - Bicycle rental US$2 (Daily)

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Hai Yen Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Today is free to soak up more of the beauty of Hoi An. One of the biggest highlights are the many tailors found around every corner. If you love clothes and want something special or unique Hoi An is the perfect place. Take a photo in to show the tailors or pick an outfit from the brochures and have it ready the next day.

Hoi An is also known for offering some incredible local cooking classes. Visit the markets on a local tour and learn the secrets behind the classic Vietnamese spring roll or one of the many other delicacies.

Optional Excursions

Old Town Sightseeing ticket (entry to 5 sites) – VND 120,000 • My Son Cham ruins – VND 150,000 entrance, plus transport with guide from US$8 • Cookery class – from VND 250,000 • Tu Bon River boat trip – US$10 - Bicycle rental US$2 (Daily)

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Hai Yen Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

This morning we get picked up and driven to Da Nang's Marble Mountains which are made out of limestone and marble. Following this we drive towards Vietnam's ancient Capital City, Hue. On route we will also stop to enjoy the spectacular views from the Hai Van Pass, the longest and highest mountain pass road in Vietnam. Upon reaching the Imperial City, we will tour the forbidden citadel which was only for the emperors and those closest to them, with severe punishments if you were caught trespassing. Time permitting, you can also take a trip down the Perfume River to visit the tombs of Vietnam's ancient Emperors.

Included Excursions

Visit to Marble Mountain, Visit to the Hai Van Pass, Walking tour of the Imperial City and Citadel.

Optional Excursions

Thien Mu Pagoda – free • Amphitheatre and elephant temple – free • Military Museum – VND55,000 + US$3 • Ho Chi Minh Museum – VND 40,000 • Bicycle hire – from VND 30,000 • Perfume River boat cruise – US$2 (depending on numbers)

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at The Times Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

A short flight takes us to colourful Hanoi.

Hanoi offers a beguiling combination of tranquillity and chaos, from the elegance of its crumbling colonial architecture and tree-lined boulevards, to the boisterous cacophony of street vendors and motorcycles. Much can be absorbed of daily life by wandering the streets of the old quarter, tasting local market food, and people-watching. For the culture buffs there are museums, temples and tombs which offer insight into a city rich in history and character.

Included Excursions

Enjoy fresh Vietnamese beer at Beer Hoi Corner in the evening with your group

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Hanoi House or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Our morning begins with a visit to the historical center of Hanoi to walk around the relaxing scenery of Hoan Kiem Lake where you can watch the early morning aerobics and enjoy a local speciality of 'egg coffee'. Legend has it that a magical sword was sent to Emperor Ly Thai which was used to drive the Chinese from Vietnam. The sword was later taken from the Emperor by a golden turtle who dissapeared into the depths of the lake with it, and that's where it gets its name from 'Lake of the restored sword'.

After our morning at the lake, you have the opportunity to travel out to and visit the world famous Halong Bay on either an optional day or overnight excursion. The bay includes hundreds of islands with towering limestone karsts draped in verdant foliage and is a classified UNESCO World Heritage site.

Included Excursions

Morning walk along Hoan Kiem Lake and stop for a speciality egg coffee

Optional Excursions

Halong Bay – Full day tour, or a 2 day overnight tour on an authentic Junk Boat

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Hanoi House or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Today is free to enjoy as you please. Discover Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, the Stilt House and the famous 1-Pillar Pagoda. You can also visit “coffee street” in the old quarter for a ca phe sua da (a milky iced coffee) for a caffeine fix, grab some hearty bowls of Pho from the street vendors selling delicious Vietnamese street food or cross the red Huc Bridge to visit Jade Island where the Ngoc Son Temple (Temple of Jade Mountain) stands.

Optional Excursions

Hoa Lo Prison – VND 20,000 • Temple of Literature – VND 30,000 • Ngoc Son Temple – VND 30,000 • Fine Arts Museum – VND 40,000 • Military History Museum – VND 40,000 • Perfume pagoda/Tam Coc – various day trips available

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Hanoi House or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Spend the rest of your time in Hanoi freely exploring its historical sites and taking in the atmosphere. For a fun evening activity, we highly recommend checking out the water puppet theatre for a traditional performance!

Optional Excursions

Hoa Lo Prison – VND 20,000 • Temple of Literature – VND 30,000 • Ngoc Son Temple – VND 30,000 • Fine Arts Museum – VND 40,000 • Military History Museum – VND 40,000 • Perfume pagoda/Tam Coc – various day trips available

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Hanoi House or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Today we depart Hanoi and Vietnam to catch a flight to Vientiane in Laos. This small and tranquil city is as welcoming as it is diverse. Heavily influenced by Laos' time under French rule, Vientiane offers respite from the bustle and busyness of other Asian capital cities. Whether you prefer to visit the local markets, visit the local temples and Wats or just take time out to people-watch at a local cafe, bar or restaurant along the Mekong River, your short time in Vientiane is sure to create many wonderful memories. In the evening after an optional group meal, your Tour Leader will invite you for a fun evening 10-pin bowling. Not something usually associated with Asia but a popular night out for locals and visitors alike.

Please note that your flight today from Hanoi to Vientiane in Laos may be unaccompanied by a tour leader. If this is the case, all flights and airport transfers will be provided and your new tour leader will arrange to meet you at the Vientiane hotel.

Included Excursions

Enjoy an informal evening of Laos 10-pin bowling with your tour leader and group.

Optional Excursions

Temples – most entry fees are US$2 • Wat Pra Kaeo (Grand Palace and museum) – LAK 10,000 • Buddha Park – LAK 15,000 entrance (plus transport starting from LAK 80,000)

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Mali Namphu Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Laos was a victim during the Vietnam War and is actually the most bombed country in the world. During the fighting 270 million submunitions were dropped on Laos between 1963 to 1974, and many of those failed to explode, with many remaining intact and unexploded in many rural areas to this day.

In Vientiane, visit the COPE Centre and learn about the Unexploded Ordnance problem in Laos and how the country is managing the situation. You can also learn more about the work undertaken by COPE to provide disability services for people affected by the bombing at the exhibition as well as spend the rest of the day exploring more of this placid but historical city.

Included Excursions

Visit to the COPE Centre

Optional Excursions

Temples – most entry fees are US$2 • Wat Pra Kaeo (Grand Palace and museum) – LAK 10,000 • Buddha Park – LAK 15,000 entrance (plus transport starting from LAK 80,000)

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Mali Namphu Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

This morning we travel to Vang Vieng passing some stunning scenery on route. The landscape here is just as impressive as the final destination and you will witness scenes of village life on the way. The serene town of Vang Vieng is situated on a plateau surrounded by mystical limestone caves and beautiful waterfalls. The area is inhabited by the Hmong and Yao tribes, and the countryside here offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.

Indulge in some local cuisine and explore the markets which are filled with fruits and handcrafted textiles. The food in Laos is colourful, vibrant and packed with herbs and spices. Sticky rice is a staple and you will see the residents eating it by hand and dipping it into various sauces.

Optional Excursions

Bamboo rafting/kayaking including visit to caves – US$20 • Caves – most entry fees are US$2

Accommodation

1 night(s) in a guesthouse at Garden Pany Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Today we enjoy a scenic Tuk Tuk ride through the incredible scenery and out to see local villages and rice paddies. Make sure to bring a swimming costume as we will also visit the Blue Lagoon where you can take a dip. Lush jungle, hanging trees and crystal blue waters make this hot spot a fun and beautiful place to swim and relax.

The rest of the day is free to further explore and relax. A great option is to hire a bike and explore the surrounding area further. Thanks to the nature that surrounds it Vang Vieng is the perfect place for a host of outdoor activities and you could tube down the river, kayak or explore the nearby caves. Simply walking through the rice paddies is a great way to experience the calm nature of the area and be sure to look out for giant snails, dragonflies and frogs!

Included Excursions

Scenic Tuk Tuk ride to the Blue Lagoon

Optional Excursions

Bamboo rafting/kayaking including visit to caves – US$20 • Caves – most entry fees are US$2

Accommodation

1 night(s) in a guesthouse at Garden Pany Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Enjoying more of the calming scenery in Laos we make our way to Luang Prubang on a four hour local bus journey. Many say that Luang Prabang is the most memorable town in all of Laos. Renowned for a fascinating history and its many temples, Luang Prabang refers to the holy Pra Bang, Laos' most sacred image of the Buddha given to Fa Ngoum.

As you explore you will see that Luang Prabang is dominated by Phousi - the marvellous hill-top temple that sits in the middle of the town. A popular highlight of any visit to Luang Prabang is to visit Wat Tham Phousi located on a small 'mountain' in the town's centre offering breathtaking views of the town and surrounding area. You'll notice a combination of Lao, French and Lao-French colonial influence as you admire the city's buildings and architectural highlights - all of which you can see discovering the town on foot.

Included Excursions

Entry to Mount Phousi

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Malida Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

We awake early to visit the monks at sunrise who collect alms that are donated by the locals. This is a very memorable experience and gives great insight into the local traditions and way of life of the Laos people, which dates back centuries. The practise is done early since monks cannot eat after midday.

The rest of the day is free to enjoy the sites. Head to the beautiful cascading Kuang Si Falls, a multi level waterfall with the green and blue waters flowing into each other. The area is perfect for a relaxing dip and is well maintained with walkways and bridges.

You could also explore Luang Prubang's best known Buddhist temple, Wat Xieng Thong, which dates back to the 1500's.

Included Excursions

Early visit to see Monks collect alms

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Malida Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

We return to Thailand and the head to the Rose of the North otherwise known as Chiang Mai. A vibrant and bustling city, Chiang Mai is renowned for its temples and unique old city. Founded in 1296, it was the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom until 1558. The city is a wonderful blend of old and new, with plenty of temples to be seen. The surrounding mountainous landscape makes for the perfect backdrop, and there are also some lovely gardens and parks to relax in. Chiang Mai is also the largest city in northern Thailand and provides a lovely contrast to Bangkok.

We arrive early evening in time to explore the local area and enjoy some Thai cuisine. Chiang Mai has a mouth watering food scene with plenty on offer for everyone.

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Today is free to enjoy the city and its host of activities. Learn the secrets of Thai cuisine on a cooking course, indulge in a relaxing massage in some of the best spas in the country or take in a night time Muay Thai match. Chiang Mai is also home to a dazzling night bazaar where you can sample street food and browse the large selection of crafts, clothing and art.

Northern Thailand is famous for having amazing food and there will be plenty local delicacies to sample. Try the Khao Soi, a coconut and curry soup filled with egg noodles and topped with crispy noodles.

Optional Excursions

Thai cookery course – THB 800 per person (depending on class size) • Doi Suthep temple by Songthaew (type of Thai vehicle) – THB 300 • Bicycle tour – from THB 800 per day • Watch Muay Thai Boxing - From THB 400

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

A highlight of Chiang Mai is to visit Doi Suthep, located about 12 km outside the city that has fantastic views of the surrounding area. The mountain is also home to a 13th century temple and replica of the Emerald Buddha.

Take a stroll down San Kamphaeng Road, also known as the Handicraft Highway due its pottery, wood carving and silk products. This area is also well known for selling Celadon, a type of pottery that has a green glaze making it look almost like jade. Some of the finest silversmiths in Thailand also sell their work here, so keep an eye out for some unique jewellery.

Optional Excursions

Thai cookery course – THB 800 per person (depending on class size) • Doi Suthep temple by Songthaew (type of Thai vehicle) – THB 300 • Bicycle tour – from THB 800 per day • Watch Muay Thai Boxing - From THB 400

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Welcome to Sukhothai, Thailand's ancient capital. A popular highlight of Thailand, it was the capital of the Thai empire for approximately 140 years and translates literally to “Dawn of Happiness”.

Having been carefully restored, the ancient temples and monuments now cover an area of 70 square kilometres and are an important part of Thailand's proud history.

Accommodation

1 night(s) in a guesthouse at Vitoon Guest House or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Today we spend the morning exploring the ancient historical park in the best way possible, by bicycle. Leaving after breakfast when it's cooler your tour leader will take you into the park to enjoy the splendour of the ancient ruins and maybe stop for an ice-cream on route. The bicycles are yours to enjoy for the day or you could return at lunchtime to enjoy a leisurely afternoon and maybe grab an authentic Pad Thai followed by a nice relaxing Thai foot massage.

Included Excursions

Bicycle tour of Sukhothai Ancient ruins

Accommodation

1 night(s) in a guesthouse at Vitoon Guest House or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

This morning we hop on a train and head for Bangkok which is your final destination on tour.

One of the biggest highlights of the city and a must see is the opulent Grand Palace, which was built in 1782 and was home of the Thai King for over 150 years. The palace complex has several impressive buildings such as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Just walking around this vast area will give you an idea of the spectacular Thai architecture and vibrant colours. Another must see is the temple of Wat Pho, which houses the impressive reclining Buddha. The position of the Buddha represents entry into Nirvana and the end of reincarnations and is an important symbol for Thai people.

Perhaps spend time soaking up the culture and art scene in one of the many museums dotted around the city. For history buffs, you could easily spend hours soaking up the information in the National Museum, which was Thailand's only museum until the mid 1970?s and has a large and very impressive collection. The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre is a work of art in itself, and you can explore the exhibits which range from photographs to paintings. The Tonson Gallery is excellent for those interested in contemporary art, while the Baan Kamthieng House Museum is perfect for learning more about rural life in Thailand.

For some of the most impressive city skylines, Bangkok has a huge host of rooftop bars waiting to be enjoyed. For some luxury, head to the ones located in Sukhumvit. You can also enjoy city views by walking to the top of Phu Khao Thong, or The Golden Mountain. The area is a small jungle oasis in the centre of Bangkok and perfect if you need away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Optional Excursions

Entrance to the Grand Palace – THB 500 • Thai Massage per hour from – THB 250 • Thai cookery course – from THB 1200 • Bangkok canal tour – from THB 750 • Wat Arun – Entry THB 100 • Golden Mountain – THB 50 • Chatuchak Weekend Market (Saturday and Sunday only) – Free

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at New Siam II or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

This morning we enjoy a short riverboat trip experiencing a different perspective of the Bangkok skyline. We disembark at Wat Pho and visit the famous reclining Buddha.

If you have booked post tour accommodation, tomorrow you can also visit the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market, Bangkok's largest market which is also said to be the largest in the world. There are over 15,000 stalls offering anything and everything that you could dream of. Mingle with the locals and immerse yourself in the bustle of vendors and shoppers going about their daily lives.

Included Excursions

Bangkok River boat to the Giant Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho (entrance included), walking back via the Grand Palace. (entrance and guide to Grand Palace optional)

Optional Excursions

Entrance to the Grand Palace – THB 500 • Thai Massage per hour from – THB 250 • Thai cookery course – from THB 1200 • Bangkok canal tour – from THB 750 • Wat Arun – Entry THB 100 • Golden Mountain – THB 50 • Chatuchak Weekend Market (Saturday and Sunday only) – Free

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at New Siam II or similar

Your adventure of a lifetime comes to an end today. If you have a late flight or have lengthened your stay by adding post tour accommodation you will have more time to explore the sights.