Southeast Asia Tour Package: Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia

Welcome to Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand! Upon your arrival at International Airports in Bangkok, our tour guide/driver will welcome you at the exit and then escort you to the hotel in downtown Bangkok for check-in. Rest of your day will be free time for relaxation to get ready to explore Bangkok with your guide the next day.

Bangkok city means the “City of Angels” in translation from Thai name, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon. It is a vibrant metropolis, and known for its bustling markets, ornate temples, and delicious street food. You can indulge in diverse culinary scene of the city, from street eateries to upscale dining. Enjoy the lively nightlife of the city with rooftop bars, and live music venues. Bangkok city offers a blend of tradition and modernity, making it an exciting and captivating destination.

After breakfast, we start our tour with a visit to Wat Phra Kaew, built in 1782 and located in the northeast corner of the Grand Palace in Bangkok. Occupied one-fourth of the Grand Palace’s area, Wat Phra Kaew is known as the most famous royal Buddhist temple in Thailand. This temple is well-known for enshrining one of three national treasures of Thailand, the Emerald Buddha, which is carved from a single block of Emerald.

After visiting Wat Phra Kaew, we continue to visit the Grand Palace. This was first established in 1782, constructed as a replica of the old palace built in the former capital city of Ayutthaya. It serves as a symbol of the Bangkok Dynasty and is the most well-preserved, largest, and most distinctive palace in Thailand. The Grand Palace is currently used for coronation ceremonies, royal celebrations, and hosting foreign dignitaries.

Continuing our tour to visit Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), the oldest and largest temple in Bangkok. Wat Pho is regarded as the first university in Thailand and is considered the birthplace of Thai medicine and traditional Thai massage. It still houses a private school established in 1957 that teaches traditional Thai medicine and offers authentic Thai massages (optional, self-pay). Temple also houses the largest reclining Buddha and the highest number of Buddha images and stupas in the city.

We then head to Chinatown of Bangkok, renowned as one of Bangkok’s liveliest and most bustling commercial areas, for lunch. It is also home to Wat Traimit, the world’s largest solid gold Buddha statue. The entire street of Chinatown stretches for about 2 km, lined with numerous shops, and thousands of businesses proudly displaying eye-catching Chinese signs.

After lunch, we will visit Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha), built in 1785. This is renowned for housing the world’s largest gold Buddha weighs 5.5 tons and stands at a height of 3 meters. It was constructed with the contributions of 3 Chinese individuals; hence it is also known as the Three Chinese Temple or Three Friends Temple. The royal family usually holds annual ceremonies here to welcome the New Year.

In the afternoon, we can take a Tuk-Tuk ride to the pier via a quick stop at Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market, also known as Bangkok Flower Market, which is one of the top 9 flower markets in the world. Then, we will visit Wat Arun, built in 1809 and established to honor King Taksin, the 41st monarch of Thailand (1767-1782) and a national hero. Then, rest of the day will be free time for your own leisure.

• Travel Tips: Please dress up in decent clothes for visiting Temples and Royal Palace.

After breakfast, we start the day with a visit to Maeklong Railway Market, which is famous as the most dangerous market in the world. This is a railway market with a history of over 100 years. The stalls, filled with vegetables and meat, are set up right beside the train tracks.

Later, you will visit to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, the largest and most well-known floating market among Thai and foreign tourists. This floating market has a history of over 100 years, offering a glimpse of a traditional way of local life. Enjoy your time watching vendors sell fresh products (fruits, vegetables, flowers), local handicrafts, souvenirs (locally made bags), and delicious Thai street food from boats on canals. This is the only market, that still preserves the traditional Thai water market style today! If you do not take a boat, you can also explore the market under the sheltered walkways on land.

This afternoon, continue our 2-hour drive trip to Kanchanaburi. Upon arrival in Kanchanaburi, your first stop will be the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre. This offers a comprehensive exploration of the history of the Thailand-Burma Railway, also known as the Death Railway. Walk to the War Cemetery of Kanchanaburi, a solemn memorial dedicated to the thousands of Allied prisoners of war who lost their lives during the Death Railway construction.

Next, we will visit the River Kwai Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the bridge stands as a powerful reminder of the hardships endured by prisoners of war during World War II. Then, we will check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of day at your own pace.

After breakfast, we will visit Erawan National Park, famous for its magnificent Erawan Waterfall, a great escape for families and children. This seven-tiered cascade tumbles down through lush rainforest, creating a series of turquoise pools perfect for swimming and cooling off. Each tier has its own unique charm. For most travelers, we recommend exploring the first to the third tier to relax.

• First Tier – Phra That: The first tier is the easiest to reach and features a shallow pool, perfect for families with young children.
• Second Tier – Wang Macha: The second tier offers a deeper pool with a small cave behind the cascading water.
• Third Tier – Phala Dat: The third tier is known for its long, curved pool and cascading waterfall.

For advanced hikers interested in continuing, you can explore tiers four to seven with a local mountain guide (additional fee applies). Please let us know in advance if you’re interested!

• Fourth Tier – Phu Pha Tok: The fourth tier, also known as the Emerald Pool, is considered to be the most beautiful tier. It features a deep, turquoise pool surrounded by lush greenery.
• Fifth Tier – Sapote: The fifth tier is a bit more challenging to reach, but it rewards visitors with a stunning view of the surrounding rainforest.
• Sixth Tier – Dong Pruk Sa: The sixth tier, also known as the Crystal Pool, is another challenging but rewarding hike. The pool here is known for its crystal-clear water.
• Seventh Tier – Mae Yaz: The seventh tier is the highest tier of the waterfall and is the most difficult to reach. However, the views from the top are truly breathtaking.

Travel Tips for Visiting Erawan Waterfall:

• You should go early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that you can swim in.Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a swimsuit.
• A sightseeing bus is available if you’d like to use it to get to the first tier of the waterfall.
• Pack a picnic lunch and drinking water. Note that picnicking is only allowed around the first and second tiers.
• Pleae be respectful of the environment and leave no trace.

Late afternoon, you’ll return to town, where you can enjoy a stroll around the Heritage Walking Street. This street is lined with buildings dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, showcasing a unique blend of Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Sino-Portuguese architectural styles. Every Saturday evening, the street will be transformed into a vibrant night market.

Today, we will depart for 2.5 hour drive from Kanchanaburi to Ayutthaya, the second capital of the Siamese Kingdom founded in 1350. It flourished from the 14th to the 18th centuries, during which time it grew to be one of the world’s largest and most cosmopolitan urban areas and a center of global diplomacy and commerce.

Upon arrival in Ayutthaya, we’ll enjoy our first stop at Wat Chaiwattanaram, a temple known for its unique row of prang towers lining the banks of the majestic Chao Phraya River. The temple’s design is said to be influenced by Khmer architecture, and it boasts breathtaking river views.

Our journey continues with a visit to Wat Phra Sri Sanpet, the largest temple ruin in Ayutthaya and its most recognizable landmark. This former grand royal temple complex is now a powerful symbol of the city’s past glory, dominated by three ruined prang towers.

Our next exploration is Wat Maha That. Here, one of the most photographed sights awaits: the head of a stone Buddha image embraced by the roots of a fig tree. This evocative image stands as a testament to the enduring presence of Buddhism despite the passage of time.

After breakfast, we head to the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum to explore its remarkable collection of artifacts. The museum is housing treasures unearthed from the ruins of the ancient Ayutthaya Kingdom, that flourished from the 14th to the 18th centuries. These artifacts offer a tangible connection to the kingdom’s grandeur, artistry, and daily life.

After our sightseeing tour to museum, we will be driving back to Bangkok. Upon arrival, enjoy some free time for your relaxation or to explore Bangkok at your own pace. Stay overnight in Bangkok.

After breakfast, we will transfer to Bangkok Airpost for a flight to Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam! Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be welcomed by our local guide/driver, and transfer to hotel in Hanoi for check-in. The rest of today is a free time for you to explore this old and charming city at your own pace.

Hanoi, located in northern Vietnam, boasts a rich history dating back over 1,000 years. It showcases a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French influences. Renowned for its diverse culinary scene, city is considered a food lover’s paradise to taste Vietnamese cuisine. Hanoi is well-known for its street food, where you can savor an array of local specialties.

After breakfast, our tour guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel for a delightful day exploring Hanoi City. This city holds a unique charm despite not being the most modern. Its character lies in the captivating blend of Vietnamese, with Chinese, and French influences, all woven together with the city’s authentic and bustling local life within its old alleyways. Indulge in the delicious local street food for a taste of true Vietnamese flavors.

Our first stop is a tranquil escape to Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi dating back over 1500 years, nestled amidst the picturesque West Lake. Here, you’ll be greeted and admired by the sight of the ic 11-story lotus tower, a serene lotus pond, adding to the pagoda’s peaceful atmosphere.

Later, head to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, situated in Ba Dinh Square. Here, you will visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (serves as the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh – Uncle Ho). If you’re lucky, you might witness the solemn and precise military honor guard ceremony. (Please take note: 1. The Mausoleum closes from Sep 4th to Nov 4th every year).

Afterward, enjoy a short walk to One Pillar Pagoda with distinctive shape – the main building sits atop a single stone pillar, resembling a lotus flower blossoming from a pond. Here, our tour guide will explain more about legend and history of pagoda, from architecture to common practice of Vietnamese Biddhists. Later, visit the Temple of Literature and Imperial College, Vietnam’s first university and a site dedicated to Confucianism.

After optional lunch break, we delve into Vietnam’s fascinating history at the Vietnam National Museum of History. Here, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of Vietnam’s past, from prehistoric times to the 20th century, through a captivating display of artifacts. Witness ancient bronze drums, intricate ceramics, and powerful imperial regalia, each piece whispering stories of Vietnam’s remarkable evolution.

Later, head to Hoan Kiem Lake, also well-known as the Restored Sword Lake, a shimmering jewel in the heart of Hanoi. Strolling along the lake’s perimeter, enjoying a view of the ic Turtle Tower. You will learn the history and reasom for the name of the lake before visiting to Ngoc Son Temple, dedicated to various Vietnamese historical figures and the revered Confucian scholar Van Xuong.

Next, immerse yourself in the local life in Hanoi ‘s Old Quarter of Vietnam with a unique and fun cyclo tour! For about an hour, you’ll travel at a slow and leisurely pace through the ic Old Quarter of Hanoi. A cyclo or rickshaw, a traditional three-wheeled bicycle taxi, will be your chariot for exploring the narrow streets. This is a fantastic way to experience the charming and vibrant atmosphere of Old Quarter before going back to your hotel for overnight.

Morning: between 8:00 AM and 8:30 AM, our shuttle bus will pick you up in Hanoi’s Old Quarter area. Hop aboard and prepare to be whisked away on a scenic 2.5-hour drive (147 km) through Red River Delta to stunning Halong Bay!

Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed aboard with a refreshing drink. Following a quick safety briefing from the cruise teamr, you can relax and savor a delicious lunch onboard while the boat starts cruising among amazing limestone islands.

Afternoon: you’ll explore Halong Bay’s dramatic karst landscape with your cruise! Different cruise companies offer various itineraries, but you might visit some of these fascinating spots and try water activities like kayaking, swimming, etc. Watch the sunset paint the karst mountains with colors.

• Sung Sot Cave (Surprising Cave): Discover a magnificent cave adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.
• Titop Island: Relax on the beach or hike to the peak for breathtaking panoramic views of the bay.
• Cua Van Fishing Village: Witness the traditional way of life of local fishermen in a floating village.
• Tung Sau Pearl Farm: Learn about pearl cultivation and see these beautiful gems firsthand.
• Trinh Nu Cave (Virgin Cave): Discover a secluded cave with a unique rock formation.

Evening: indulge in a hearty dinner prepared by our talented chefs in the elegant dining room. After dinner, unwind with a variety of leisure options: join in on board games, try squid fishing, catch a night movie, or head to the bars & karaoke. Overnight onboard.

Early risers can have chance to embrace the sunrise with a Tai Chi class on the sundeck, invigorating your body and mind. Then ennjoy a delicious breakfast onboard, before continuing more exploration of Halong Bay! You can also choose to participate in exciting water activities like kayaking or follow the cruise itinerary to admire the majestic limestone formations.

Later this morning, return to the boat for check-out process at the reception. As you cruise back to the Halong pier, savor a delightful lunch at 10:00 AM. Disembarkation will take place between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM. Then transferred back to Hanoi, before our driver takes you to the airport for your flight to Da Nang.

Upon arrival in Da Nang Airport, our tour guide and driver will welcome you for 45 minutes’ drive to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town! Hotel check-in, then the rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace! Some recommended Activities for free time in Hoi An:

• Hoi An Lantern Making Class in Lantern Workshops
• Enjoying a relaxing boat ride on the Thu Bon River
• Explore the bustling Hoi An Night Market & Shopping

After breakfast, your tour guide will pick you up at your hotel for a half-day excursion to Cam Thanh village, a charming fishing village nestled amidst the Cam Thanh Water Coconut Forest.

Upon arrival, we will take an exciting 45-minute to 1-hour adventure on a traditional basket boat. Crafted from bamboo and woven palm leaves, these boats will take you on a journey through the heart of the water coconut forest. As you glide through the serene waterways, surrounded by lush coconut groves and vibrant rice paddies, soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Witness the unique ecosystem teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Learn about the local community’s commendable efforts in preserving this remarkable environment. Other activities and experiences you will have:

• Fun dancing with the locals in the basket boat.
• Try your hand at casting traditional nets and basket traps.
• Catch crabs or snails by the riverbank.

After your exciting excursion to Cam Thanh village, you’ll return to Ancient Town of Hoi An where our guide can recommend you a delicious lunch of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. This afternoon, enjoy a captivating exploration of Hoi An Ancient Town with your knowledgeable guide on the walking tour. Our guide will lead you to some of the town’s most significant landmarks, including the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, the ornate Fujian Assembly Hall, and the historic Tan Ky House (Old House of Tan Ky). The rest of day will be free time for you to do your own discoveries or relaxation.

After Breakfast, you will be transferred from Hoi An to Da Nang for to take a 1.5 hour flight to Ho Chi Minh City (about 1.5 hours). Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, our local guide will welcome you and escort you to your hotel for check-in.

In the afternoon, you’ll take a half-day trip to explore Ho Chi Minh City’s rich history, culture, and vibrant modern life. Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the biggest city in Vietnam. Located in southern country of Vietnam, it’s a well-blended of historical significance and modern dynamism.

Our first stop is the Reunification Palace, formerly called the Independence Palace, a captivating architectural marvel that once served as the residence for presidents of the South Vietnam Government during the Vietnam war. Here, you can witness many historical artifacts, including the iconic image of North Vietnamese tanks storming the palace gates, a defining moment that marked the end of the Vietnam War in 1975.

Next, we head to the Saigon War Remnants Museum, a poignant and powerful testament to what happened during the Vietnam War. Prepare to be moved by exhibits showcasing artifacts, photographs, and weaponry that tell stories of war and resilience.

Continuing a short stroll to the Central Post Office, a majestic building was constructed in the early 20th century. Take a moment to appreciate the impressive facade with its wrought-iron details and colorful mosaic floors. Then we will experience Saigon’s famed coffee culture by visiting the Cafe Apartment and culminate your exciting day with a captivating immersion into the vibrant atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market.

After breakfast, spend a full day exploring the famous Mekong River Delta at a relaxing pace. Located in southwestern Vietnam, this is a vast maze of rivers, canals, islands, and rice paddies formed by the Mekong River as it empties into the sea. Known as the “rice basket” of Vietnam, the Delta is a major agricultural hub, producing a significant portion of the country’s rice and fish.

Start driving from Ho Chi Minh City, you will pass through green rice fields and small villages to arrive in beautiful rural city of My Tho. Upon arrival, your first visit is unique Vinh Trang Pagoda built in the mid-19th century. The pagoda is renowned for its stunning architecture, showcasing a harmonious fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Khmer influences. You will be amazed by the outstanding construction with meticulously carved columns with intricate details, and visits to the Statue of Maitreya Buddha, Statue of Amitabha Buddha, Reclining Buddha statue, and 7-story tower.

Then, head to the nearby My Tho pier to board a traditional Mekong Delta boat for a scenic cruise along the majestic river. Gliding past the Turtle, Dragon, and Phoenix Islets, we arrive at the enchanting Unicorn Islet. Delve deeper into the heart of delta with a rowing on a traditional sampan boat through narrow waterways lined with coconut palms. Stop at a local bee farm to savor honey tea, taste local fruits, and immerse yourself in traditional music performed by the villagers. Enjoy a local lunch with traditional Vietnamese dishes.

After lunch, take a boat trip to province of Ben Tre, known as the coconut kingdom, a charming town famous for its coconut plantations and fruit orchards. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride through the countryside and villages to learn about how coconut products are produced in the region. Visit a coconut candy workshop to learn how locals make for their daily life and sample the best popular product of region. Then get back to the transportation and drive back to Ho Chi Minh City.

After breakfast, we transfer you to Tan Son Nhat Airport for a 1.5-hour flight to Siem Reap. When you arrive at Siem Reap International Airport (SAI), our tour guide and driver will welcome you at the exit and then escort you to the hotel in downtown Siem Reap.

In the afternoon, we will take a boat tour in the Tonle Sap Lake, visiting the floating village of Kampong Khleang. Known as the biggest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, Tonle Sap is home to numerous floating villages. These are unique for their stilted houses, which are built on platforms supported by wooden poles or tethered to boats, adjusting to the lake’s changing water levels. The villages also have floating schools, shops, and even churches.

Enjoy a about 1.5 hours boat ride to observe the residents’ unique lifestyle and the region’s rich biodiversity. And if it happens to be dusk, you will appreciate the beautiful sunset on Tonle Sap Lake.

Renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Angkor Archaeological Park is a vast and impressive temples complex. Area spans roughly 400 square kilometers and contains the magnificent remains of the various capitals of the Khmer Empire, which flourished from the 9th to the 15th centuries. Today, our guide will take you for exploration of some of the most iconic temples and structures within the park, including the majestic Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom complexes, and the enchanting Ta Prohm.

Start your exploration early with a sunrise trip in Angkor Wat (The sun usually rises between 5:30 AM and 6:30 AM, depending on the time of year). You should be prepared with dress code that covers shoulders and knees, and our guide will walk you to the best viewing spots to watch the sunrise behind the iconic towers, taking some amazing photos. After sunrise, we head back to your hotel for breakfast and a short rest.

After breakfast, head to Temple of Angkor Thom, the last and most enduring capital city of the Khmer empire. It was established in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII in the late twelfth century. Proceed to the Bayon Temple, this is known for its numerous smiling faces carved into its towers. Each of its 54 Gothic towers is decorated with 216 gargantuan smiling faces of Avalokiteshvara. The temple also features 1.2km of extraordinary bas-reliefs, incorporating more than 11,000 figures. Take your time to marvel at these detailed bas-reliefs, then have a short walk to the Baphuon Temple. This temple, which predates Angkor Thom, was originally a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva.

Next, visit the Terrace of the Elephants, that was used by King Jayavarman VII as a viewing platform to observe his victorious returning army. You’ll find it adorned with carvings of elephants and many other animals, providing excellent photo opportunities. Continue to the nearby Terrace of the Leper King. This 7-meter-high laterite platform features multiple tiers of meticulously carved walls depicting nagas (serpents), demons, and various mythical beings.

Later, continuing to Ta Prohm (Jungle Temple), was also featured in the movies “Tomb Raider” and “Raiders of the Lost Ark”, which adds to its popularity. After exploring Ta Prohm, enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the local restaurants nearby.

In the afternoon, we will return to Angkor Wat for a more detailed tour of this iconic temple. Uniquely designed with a westward orientation, Angkor Wat is best viewed in the afternoon light. Angkor Wat, the largest monument of the Angkor group and the best preserved, is an architectural masterpiece. Its perfection in composition, balance, proportions, relief, and sculpture make it one of the finest monuments in the world. After the tour, we will drive you back to your hotel. Stay overnight in Siem Reap.

Breakfast in the hotel. Then it is time to end our Southeast Asia Tour Package 16 Days to Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia . Today, you will have free time until our guide/driver transfer you for about 1 hour to Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport for your departure to the next destination.