Indochina Delight (Vietnam - Cambodia - Thailand) with Beach Escape 3 weeks

DETAIL PROGRAM:

Day 1: Arrival Hanoi, Vietnam – Welcome to the Capital

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. Settle into Vietnam's charming capital, known for its rich history, colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and serene lakes. Take some time to relax after your journey, or perhaps enjoy a leisurely evening stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour Full Day

Immerse yourself in the historical and cultural highlights of Hanoi.

• Morning: Explore the solemn Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex (exterior views and surrounding gardens), visit Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House, and the iconic One Pillar Pagoda. Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university.
• Afternoon: Discover the vibrant Hanoi Old Quarter with a cyclo ride or a walking tour, experiencing its narrow streets, traditional shops, and bustling atmosphere. Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and the beautiful Ngoc Son Temple. Consider attending a traditional Water Puppet Show in the evening (optional).

Day 3: Halong Bay with overnight on a cruise

Embark on a spectacular journey to Vietnam's most iconic natural wonder.

• Morning: You will be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi and transferred by shuttle bus to Halong Bay (approximately 2.5-3 hours drive).
• Mid-day: Board your chosen overnight cruise. Enjoy a refreshing welcome drink and a delicious seafood lunch as your boat sets sail, navigating through the emerald waters dotted with thousands of towering limestone karsts and islets.
• Afternoon: Participate in activities such as kayaking through hidden lagoons, swimming in the bay's calm waters, or visiting a majestic cave (e.g., Sung Sot Cave or Thien Cung Cave).
• Evening: Enjoy a sumptuous dinner on board, followed by optional activities like squid fishing, karaoke, or simply relaxing on the sundeck under the stars.

Day 4: Halong Bay Cruise – Hanoi – Fly to Hoi An

Savor the final moments in Halong Bay before transitioning to Central Vietnam.

• Morning: Wake up early to witness a magical sunrise over the bay, often accompanied by an optional Tai Chi session on the sundeck. Enjoy a final breakfast or brunch as the cruise continues to explore more stunning landscapes.
• Late Morning: Disembark from the cruise at the harbor. Transfer back to Hanoi by shuttle bus.
• Afternoon/Evening: Upon arrival in Hanoi, you will be transferred directly to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for your domestic flight to Da Nang (DAD). From Da Nang, a short transfer will take you to Hoi An. Check into your hotel and soak in the charming atmosphere of this ancient town.

Day 5: Hoi An Old Town – My Son Full Day

Immerse yourself in the historical and cultural richness of Central Vietnam.

• Morning: Embark on a journey to My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a cluster of abandoned and ruined Hindu temples constructed by the Champa Kingdom. Explore the ancient architecture and learn about its historical significance.
• Afternoon: Return to Hoi An Ancient Town for a delightful walking tour. Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, the vibrant Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, a traditional old merchant's house, and explore the bustling local market. Enjoy the unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles.

Day 6: Cycling to Tra Que Herb Village – Cooking Class (SIC)

Experience local life and culinary traditions.

• Morning: Enjoy a scenic cycling tour from Hoi An to Tra Que Herb Village. This peaceful village is famous for its organic vegetables and herbs cultivated by local farmers using traditional methods.
• Mid-morning: Participate in a hands-on cooking class (SIC - Seat In Coach/Join-in Tour) at a local house or restaurant in Tra Que. Learn to prepare several traditional Vietnamese dishes using fresh ingredients from the village garden. Enjoy the delicious meal you've prepared for lunch.
• Afternoon: Free time to explore more of Hoi An at your leisure, perhaps tailor some clothes, enjoy a riverside coffee, or simply relax.

Day 7: Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City By Flight

Journey from the charming ancient town to the bustling southern metropolis.

• Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. You'll have some free time in Hoi An for last-minute souvenir shopping or to simply enjoy the serene atmosphere.
• Afternoon: Transfer from Hoi An to Da Nang Airport (DAD) for your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (SGN).
• Evening: Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), you will be transferred to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. Settle in and prepare to explore Vietnam's largest and most dynamic city.

Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City Tour – Cu Chi Tunnels

Delve into the history and vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City.

• Morning: Drive outside the city to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Explore the tunnels, learn about the ingenious guerrilla warfare, and perhaps even crawl through a section.
• Afternoon: Return to Ho Chi Minh City for a half-day city tour. Visit key landmarks such as the Reunification Palace (formerly the Presidential Palace), the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral, the historic Saigon Central Post Office, and the bustling Ben Thanh Market for a true local experience.

Day 9: Mekong Delta/River Boat Trip

Experience the unique regional way of life in the "rice bowl" of Vietnam.

• Full Day: Embark on an exciting boat trip through the Mighty Mekong Delta. Journey to a specific region (e.g., My Tho or Ben Tre).
• Morning/Afternoon: Cruise along the intricate network of canals and rivers, observing local life, rice paddies, and fruit orchards. Visit a local coconut candy workshop, enjoy fresh tropical fruits, and listen to traditional Vietnamese folk music. Take a smaller rowing boat through a narrow, tree-lined canal.
• Lunch: Savor a delicious local lunch at a riverside restaurant.

Day 10: Conclude Saigon / Depart for Siem Reap, Cambodia

Bid farewell to Vietnam and journey to the ancient heart of Cambodia.

• Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. You'll have some free time in Ho Chi Minh City for last-minute souvenir shopping or revisit a favorite spot.
• Afternoon: Transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) for your international flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia (REP).
• Evening: Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Prepare to explore the wonders of Angkor.

Day 11: Angkor Complex Sightseeing

Experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Angkor Archaeological Park.

• Morning: Begin your exploration with Ta Prohm, the "Tomb Raider" temple, where giant tree roots embrace the ancient stones, creating a mystical atmosphere.
• Afternoon: Continue to Angkor Thom, a vast walled city. Enter through the impressive South Gate adorned with carved faces, then explore the enigmatic faces of Bayon Temple, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King.
• Late Afternoon: Conclude your day with the magnificent Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Witness a spectacular sunset over the temple (weather permitting).

Day 12: Tonle Lake Half Day

Discover a unique way of life on Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake.

• Morning: Take a half-day excursion to Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.
• Boat Trip: Embark on a boat trip to visit one of the floating villages (e.g., Kompong Phluk or Chong Kneas), observing the unique daily life of communities living on the water, including floating schools, churches, and markets. Learn about their resilience and adaptation to the changing water levels.
• Afternoon: Free time in Siem Reap. You could relax, explore the local markets, or visit the National Museum.

Day 13: Siem Reap Concludes – Fly to Bangkok

Leave the ancient temples behind for the vibrant capital of Thailand.

• Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast in Siem Reap. You'll have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping at the Old Market or a relaxing coffee.
• Afternoon: Transfer to Siem Reap International Airport (REP) for your international flight to Bangkok, Thailand (BKK/DMK).
• Evening: Upon arrival in Bangkok, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Settle in and prepare to explore the "Land of Smiles."

Day 14: Bangkok Full Day: City Temples – Grand Palace – Thonburi Canal Tour

Immerse yourself in the dynamic energy and cultural richness of Thailand's capital.

• Morning: Visit the dazzling Grand Palace, home to the revered Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). Then, explore Wat Pho, famous for its enormous reclining Buddha statue.
• Afternoon: Take a longtail boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and the quaint canals of Thonburi (the "Venice of the East"), observing local life, traditional houses, and riverside temples. Make a stop at Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), an iconic riverside landmark.
• Evening: Consider experiencing a rooftop bar for panoramic city views or exploring the lively nightlife of Sukhumvit or Khao San Road.

Day 15: Bangkok Free Day

Enjoy a full day to explore Bangkok at your own pace.

• Full Day: This free day allows you to tailor your Bangkok experience. Options include:
  • Shopping at modern malls (e.g., MBK, Siam Paragon, CentralWorld) or local markets (e.g., Chatuchak Weekend Market if it's a weekend).
  • Visiting the Jim Thompson House, a fascinating museum dedicated to Thai silk.
  • Indulging in a traditional Thai massage or a spa treatment.
  • Taking a cooking class to learn the secrets of Thai cuisine.
  • Exploring more local neighborhoods or museums.

Day 16: Bangkok – Fly To Phuket

Transition from the bustling capital to Thailand's largest island paradise.

• Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your Bangkok hotel. Transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Phuket (HKT).
• Afternoon: Upon arrival in Phuket, you will be greeted and transferred to your chosen hotel or resort. Settle in and enjoy the transition to island life.
• Evening: Enjoy the sunset over the Andaman Sea and a fresh seafood dinner by the beach.

Day 17: Full Day Phi Phi Island Explorer

Discover the iconic beauty of the Phi Phi Islands.

• Full Day: Embark on an exciting full-day boat tour (usually by speedboat) to the stunning Phi Phi Islands.
• Highlights: Visit Maya Bay (from "The Beach" movie), snorkel in crystal-clear waters, explore Viking Cave, swim in the natural swimming pool of Pileh Lagoon, and relax on the beautiful beaches of Phi Phi Don. Enjoy lunch on one of the islands.

Day 18: Phuket Free Day – Siam Niramit Show with Dinner

Enjoy a day of relaxation followed by a spectacular cultural show.

• Daytime: Enjoy a free day in Phuket. Relax on your resort's beach or by the pool, explore nearby beaches (e.g., Patong, Kata, Karon), visit Old Phuket Town for its charming Sino-Portuguese architecture, or enjoy water sports.
• Evening: Experience the grandeur of the Siam Niramit Show (or similar cultural performance). This spectacular show combines dazzling stage performances, traditional Thai music, and elaborate costumes to portray Thailand's rich history and culture. A delicious dinner is usually included.

Day 19 - 20: Phuket Free Day

Two full days dedicated to pure island bliss and personal exploration.

• Full Days: These days are entirely at your leisure to relax and enjoy Phuket as you wish. Options are limitless:
  • Continue beach hopping and exploring different parts of the island.
  • Take a scuba diving excursion to a nearby dive site.
  • Indulge in more spa treatments or a traditional Thai massage.
  • Visit a local market for fresh produce and souvenirs.
  • Simply unwind by the ocean, soaking up the sun.

Day 21: Phuket Departure

Your grand Southeast Asia journey concludes.

• Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast at your resort in Phuket.
• Daytime: Depending on your international flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or a final dip in the sea.
• Departure: Transfer to Phuket International Airport (HKT) for your departure flight, carrying a lifetime of incredible memories from Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand.

Important Notes