Program
The nations of Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Thailand are united not just by geography but by a tangible heritage of influences from all corners of Asia. This comprehensive adventure that reveals historical, cultural and culinary treasures throughout the region, from karst-adorned Ha Long Bay and incomparable Angkor Wat to charming Luang Prabang and temple-laden Bangkok.
Engage with the complex history of Vietnam, north and south, as you visit the infamous “Hanoi Hilton” and inspect the Cu Chi Tunnels, where you may meet with a Vietcong veteran
- Glide among stunning limestone islands and watch the sun set and rise again during a relaxing overnight cruise on tranquil Ha Long Bay
- Venture straight into the heart of daily life in Ho Chi Minh City, riding by cyclo through the streets at dawn to observe local life, stop for coffee and savor sensational pho at a culinary hotspot
- Explore Cambodia’s most storied temples with an expert local guide, including Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm, during a two-night sojourn in Siem Reap
- In serene Luang Prabang, meet with locals in their home for a baci ceremony and take part in an alms-giving tradition that immerses you in the community’s spiritual life
- Visit a project supported by Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy
Day 1 | Arrive Hanoi, Vietnam
The capital city of Vietnam, bustling Hanoi lies in the north of the country. With streets that reveal remnants of Chinese and French occupation now filled with scooters, stalls dishing up fragrant pho and farmers peddling their home-grown produce, Hanoi beckons.
Day 2 | Hanoi – Exploring the Historic Old Quarter
Visit Ho Chi Minh’s house, once home to the revolutionary guerrilla leader. After lunch, visit the infamous “Hanoi Hilton” prison, and then ride by cyclo through the city’s Old Quarter.
Day 3 | Ha Long Bay - Cruising Among the Karsts
Travel to the shores of the Gulf of Tonkin, for a cruise of picturesque Ha Long and Lan Ha bays. Relax on deck as your ship snakes its way past countless islets, their striking karst outcrops rising dramatically from the emerald waters. Tonight, watch the sun set against the Gulf of Tonkin shoreline.
Day 4 | Ha Long Bay - Sunrise Tai Chi
Greet the day on deck with sunrise tai chi as you glide among the towering limestone pinnacles. Cruise home to port and fly from Hai Phong to Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 5 | Ho Chi Minh City - Vibrant, Evocative Saigon
Buzzing, high-energy Ho Chi Minh City resides in the heart of the country’s south, where the scent of incense from temples mingles with enticing food-stall aromas. Rise early for an A&K-exclusive cyclo ride through the streets as the city slowly comes to life. Sample some sensational pho at a popular restaurant. At lunch, participate in a chef-led experience, trying your hand at making banh xeo, a savory Vietnamese pancake. Later, view Reunification Palace and visit a Cao Dai temple.
Day 6 | Ho Chi Minh City - Descend Into the Cu Chi Tunnels
This morning, explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, the underground paths used by the Vietcong. Return to Ho Chi Minh City and explore the City’s Bustling Culinary Scene, sampling traditional dishes prepared by local street-food vendors, as well as local craft beer.
Day 7 | Siem Reap, Cambodia - Gateway to Angkor Wat
Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia’s hip epicenter and gateway to the temples of Angkor. This evening savor a progressive dinner, with each course served in a different locale.
Day 8 | Siem Reap - Hidden Temples and Treasures
Visit Ta Prohm, where tree roots spill over the roof; Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer kingdom; and Bayon, with its carved stone faces bearing beguiling smiles.
Day 9 | Siem Reap - Sunrise Over Angkor Wat
Rise early to experience the incomparable serenity of watching the sun rise over mystical Angkor Wat before exploring the vast temple complex with a local expert. After lunch, visit a clean water project supported by A&K Philanthropy before flying to Luang Prabang.
Day 10 | Luang Prabang, Laos - Living Temples
Located in northern Laos, Luang Prabang offers a window into Southeast Asia’s past. Begin the day with a visit to stunning Kuang Si Falls. Then explore the Royal Palace Museum, and then follow quiet back lanes to the beautiful Heuan Chan Heritage House. After a tea in the gardens, proceed to enchanting Wat Xieng Thong to view its “Tree of Life” wall mosaic. Later, cruise Mekong at sunset.
Day 11 | Luang Prabang - Giving and Receiving
Rise early to give alms to Buddhist monks, getting in touch with the local community. Later, join locals in their home for a baci ceremony before flying to Bangkok.
Day 12 | Bangkok, Thailand - Along the Chao Phraya River
Bangkok is the nation’s bustling capital. Visit the Grand Palace, site of the historic Siamese court and home to the Emerald Buddha. Ride by tuk-tuk to the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho.
Day 13 | Depart Bangkok
After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.
Information
What’s INCLUDED:
- English-Speaking Local Guides
- Airport Meet and Greet with Private Transfers
- Entrance Fees and Taxes
- 24/7 A&K On-Call Support
- Internal Air Included (Economy Class, £1,375 value) Hai Phong/Ho Chi Minh City; Ho Chi Minh City/Siem Reap; Siem Reap/Luang Prabang; Luang Prabang/Bangkok
Prices and tour program are promotional. For all current information, please contact the manager.