Day 1: Siem Reap - Arrival (D)
On arrival at Siem Riep Airport, you are met and transferred to hotel. After checking into hotel, we drive to the archeological area to visit the South Gate of Angkor Thom, famous for its series of colossal human faces carved in stone, the impressive Bayon Temple, the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephant Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King. The largest as well as most complete structure of Angkor Wat is not to be missed. We stroll around this massive monument, exploring the many galleries with columns, libraries, pavilions, courtyards and ponds full of water reflecting the towering temple. Overnight in Siem Reap.
Day 2: Siem Reap - Angkor Temples (B, L)
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. Overnight in Siem Reap.
Day 3: Siem Reap - Angkor Temples - Banteay Srei (B, L)
Upon leaving the town we set off on a drive past Preah Dark village to the intricately carved and well preserved temple of Banteay Srei. After seeing this beautiful landmark we continue driving through the rugged mountain scenery to Kbal Soean, known as the River of 1000 Lingas. A view over the riverbed carvings is impressive. The next stop of our trip is the Banteay Samre Temple, which is adorned with impressive reliefs depicting scenes of Vishunu as well as Krishna legends. We also have time today, exploring the ancient Khmer civilization site of Hariharalaya which flourished in the late 9th and earlier 10th centuries. These are the earliest temples in the Angkor area and are referred to the Rolous group. Overnight in Siem Reap.
Day 4: Siem Reap - Phnom Penh (B, L) - by boat
The river journey begins as we board our express boat and cruise for a half day down the Tonle Sap River to Phnom Penh. The capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh was once considered the loveliest city of Indochina. Despite the recent turbulent history, it still maintains considerable charm. A city tour acquaints us with some major sights of the city. 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. The next stop of our trip is the legendary temple of Wat Phnom, which provides an interesting view over the surroundings. Overnight in Phnom Penh.
Day 5: Phnom Penh - Ho Chi Minh City (B, L) - by flight
After breakfast, we drive out to see the Tuol Sleng Museum with its disturbing account of Pol Pot's reign of terror and the notorious ''Killing Fields'' of Choeung Ek. The Indochina journey continues with a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City. An afternoon city tour takes us in 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 beautiful French colonial structures including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Saigon Post Office. We also visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda and the War Remnant before moving to the bustling Ben Thanh Market where anything and everything is for sale. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City - Tay Ninh - Cu Chi Tunnels (B, L)
After breakfast we travel by roads to Tay Ninh to see the ornate temple of Cao Dai and attend the fantastic mid-day service when the followers fill the hall wearing colored robes, a symbol of the curious combination of the Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism. Afterwards we continue to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, which were an incredible underground network constructed by Vietnamese fighters during the long struggle for independence. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta (B, L)
Heading out of town we travel by roads to the Mekong Delta, Vietnam's largest rice bowl. On arrival in My Tho we embark on a boat navigating around the intricate small canals in the delta region, which is a great way to observe the local lifestyle close-up. This thrilling excursion will pass the lush green vegetation before arriving on an island. Here we have opportunities to visit some fascinating local industries, stroll around an orchard and taste many seasonal fruits. After feasting on a huge lunch we return to Ho Chi Minh, stopping off along the way to see the beautiful Ving Trang Pagoda and the Cho Lon, Saigon's Chinatown, which is crammed with fascinating temples and mysterious, narrow lanes. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City - Da Lat (B, L)
The northbound journey begins as we depart Ho Chi Minh and pass through the many tea and coffee plantations to the hill station of Da Lat, sometimes known as the "City of Eternal Spring". The drive is long but views are fantastic. On arrival we can soak up the cool climate as much as we want by spending our time to wander around and catch our first glimpse of the town. The influence of the French is prevalent since Da Lat was founded as a hill retreat for the colonials to escape the oppressive heat of the coastal plains and the Mekong Delta. This charming town is set around a lake and surrounded by forests, waterfalls and rolling countryside. Overnight in Da Lat.
Day 9: Da Lat - Nha Trang (B, L)
After breakfast, we embark on a short drive past the charming pine hill to visit the summer residence of Vietnam's last Emperor Bao Dai, who was forced to abdicate in 1945, shortly after the end of the World War II. We follow this with a trip to the Lam Ty Ni Pagoda and the Hang Nga Guesthouse, well known as the Crazy House because of its bizarre architecture. The central market and the old rail station are also visited this morning before we travel by roads through the undulating terrains to the picturesque coastal town of Nha Trang. Along the way we make stopover at the scenic Ngoan Muc Pass and the Po Klong Jarai Cham Towers. These amazing structures represent an interesting culture and a colorful history of the Cham people. Overnight in Nha Trang.
Day 10: Nha Trang Island tour (B, L)
09:00 Pick up at hotel to Cau Da port
09:15 Transfer to Fishing village by speed boat
09:20 Visit Fishing village which is the floating fisherman’s village, try taking bamboo boat (20 minutes)
09:45 See many fishes in South East sea at Tri Nguyen Aquarium (45 minutes)
10:30 Move to MunIsland where has crystal water (15 minutes)
10:45 Enjoy swimming and snorkeling at Mun island (90 minutes)
12:15 Move to Con Se Tre on Tre Island for lunch (15 minutes)
12:30 Enjoy the spectacular landscape at Con Se Tre, having lunch and relaxing (lunch:60 minutes, relaxing: 75 minutes)
14:45 Back to harbor (10 minutes)
14:55 Back to hotel (15 minutes). Overnight in Nha Trang.
Day 11: Nha Trang - Da Nang - Hoi An (B, L) - by flight
An early morning transfer to airport for a flight to Da Nang. On arrival we are greeted and driven a short distance to Hoi An which was originally a Cham seaport but has been influenced down centuries by a myriad of traders from various cultures. There are plenty to see in this tranquil and delightful town, some of which are 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. Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 12: Hoi An - Hue City Tour (B, L)
The following destination of our trip is Hue, Vietnam's last imperial capital. Along the way we make stop to visit the sensational Marble Mountains, the East Sea and the Cham Museum in Da Nang. This interesting structure is home to Vietnam's largest collection of Cham treasures. The winding roads begin as we make our way up the spectacular Hai Van Pass. At the top of the pass we stop to admire a fantastic view north to Lang Co and south to Danang. Arriving in Hue we explore the Imperial Citadel and the Purple Forbidden City. This royal residence was all but destroyed during the 1968 Tet Offensive, however it is still fascinating to stroll among the ruins. Afterwards we enjoy a walk to the bustling Dong Ba Market that sells a wide variety of local goods and handicrafts, and pass many fantastic eating spots, all ideal for visitors to sample some local delicacies. Overnight in Hue.
Day 13: Hue - Hanoi (B, L) - by flight
The beautiful riverside 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 half day cruise on the Perfume River which also gives us a taste of the scenic countryside as well as an enjoyable visit to the mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang, in a tranquil setting of gardens and lakes. After an impressive boat trip we take a walk to the bustling Dong Ba Market that sells a wide variety of local goods and handicrafts. In the evening we board a a flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival, our driver will take you to hotel. Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 14: Hanoi City Tour (B, L)
You are met at 08:30 in the hotel lobby. There is a morning and afternoon schedule, as well as an organised lunch. Morning you visit: Ho Chi Minh Complex; The Temple of Literature; A local Vietnamese lunch. Afternoon you visit: Museum of Ethnology; Ngoc Son Temple and Hoan Kiem Lake; A one-hour cyclo tour through the narrow, chaotic streets of the Old Quarter - a must for any visitor to Hanoi! A traditional performance of the famous Vietnamese water puppets. You will finish city tour round 17:00. Come back hotel. Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 15: Hanoi - Halong Bay (B, L, D)
08:00 - 08:30 Our bus and guide will pick you up at your hotel. On the way to Halong city, enjoy the journey through the rich farmlands of the Red River Delta and the scenery of rice fields, water buffalo and everyday Vietnamese village life.
12:15 Embark on cruise for welcome drink followed by a cruise briefing and safety instructions. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch while our cruiser heads to the bay passing the beautiful limestone seascape.
15:15 Visiting Sung Sot cave, one of the most amazing caves in Halong Bay. The two chambers that form this amazing grotto are decorated with thousands of spectacular stalactite and stalagmite forms.
16:25 Enjoy kayaking (weather permitted) with guideline around the fishing village then return to the vessel for free time at your leisure. Fresh fruit platter will be served on the sundeck.
17:45 cruise through the Bay to its overnight anchorage near Luon Cave.
18:00 Cooking demonstration and discover the mystic recipes of the Vietnamese cuisine.
19:00 Seafood set-dinner on board.
21:00 Enjoy evening activities - Movie Night, Board Games, Fishing or karaoke program. Overnight on board.
Day 16: Hanoi - Halong Bay (B, L)
A new day has come with beautiful sunrise view from your cabin
07:30 Have breakfast while complimentary tea & coffee are served.
08:00 Trip by tender to Ti Top island for swimming or climb up to the top to see the outstanding scenery of the bay.
9:00 Return to cruise. The vessel cruises leisurely back to harbor
9:30 Check out and settle the bill.
11:00 Set menu lunch is served on board.
12:00 Disembark and transfer back to Hanoi.
16:00 Arrive in Hanoi. Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 17: Hanoi - Vientiane (B, L) - by flight
After breakfast we have free time until transferring to airport for a flight to Vientiane. A city tour includes Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple still standing in Vientiane. The following sight is the former royal temple of Haw Pha Kaew, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. We also visit the imposing Patouxai Monument well known as Vientiane's own Arc de Triomphe on our way to the great sacred structure of That Luang Stupa. Overnight in Vientiane.
Day 18: Vientiane - Luang Prabang (B, L) - by flight
This morning we take a short flight to Luang Prabang. There is plenty to see in this delightful town, some of which are the national museum at the former Royal Palace, 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. Overnight in Luang Prabang.
Day 19: Luang Prabang - Pak Ou Caves (B, L)
Today we continue seeing this town with the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong, which nestles at the meeting of the Mekong and the Nam Khan River. We board a boat for a leisurely trip on the Mekong River, stopping en route at Ban Xang Hai to visit the distillation of local rice wine. Upon leaving this village we wave our wave through the stunning mountain landscape to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. After the river trip we drive towards Ban Phanom and visit the hand weaving. Overnight in Luang Prabang.
Day 20: Luang Prabang - Departure (B)
Free time for shopping or optional visit before transfer to the airport for flight back home. End of tour services.