Day 1: Arrive Saigon
Our representative will meet and greet you upon arrival to Ho Chi Minh City, which is formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a sprawling metropolis that is home to over 5 million people and a fast-paced city full of contrasts as street vendors selling fruit and vegetables can be seen next to glitzy western-style bars and boutiques. Saigon’s history is only 300 years old. In 1859 the city was captured by the French and became the capital of Cochin China. From 1956 until its dramatic demise in April 1975 it was the capital of the US-backed Republic of Vietnam. Today, Ho Chi Minh City is very much the heart of Vietnamese business and entrepreneurs. And yet the city still retains its connections to the past, particularly in Cho Lon, Saigon’s Chinatown. Here dozens of elegant temples and pagodas can be seen. The French also left their mark with some fine colonial-era buildings such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office.
Day 2: Saigon Touring
Our city tour will help you to see the best of Saigon. In the morning we visit the historic Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum, followed by the architectural treats of French colonial Notre Dame Cathedral and the Post Office. In the afternoon. In the afternoon, we drive to Cu Chi district, 50 km to the Northwest of Saigon City. On arrival watch a video presentation on the construction of the tunnels before making your way into the tunnels. Here you can spend around an hour exploring the maze of tunnels and also view the various mantraps on display and the remains of an American tank as well as numerous bomb craters made by 500 pound bombs dropped by B52 bombers. This unique experience gives a fascinating insight into what underground life in the war must have been like. The return journey to Ho Chi Minh City. Free time at leisure or shopping at Ben Thanh Market nearby. Overnight at hotel in Saigon
Day 3: Saigon - Mekong Delta
The
journey
starts
at 07:00
from
your
hotel
and we
will
head for
Mekong
Delta.
Explore
the
magnificent
Mekong
Delta
with
bustling
floating
market
of Cai
Be and
get an
insight
into
rural
life.
Enjoy
Signature
cruising
and
tours in
Style™
and stay
aboard.
Day 4: Mekong Delta - Saigon - Hoi An
Your cruise journey will end at around 10.00 am. End of the cruise and services. Driving back to Saigon City and catch a short flight to Danang City. Pick up and transfer to Hoi An.
Day 5: Hoi An
Known as
Faifo to
early
Western
traders,
Hoi An
Ancient
Town is
an
exceptionally
well-preserved
example
of a
South-East
Asian
trading
port
dating
from the
15th to
the 19th
century.
Its
buildings
and its
street
plan
reflect
the
influences,
both
indigenous
and
foreign,
that
have
combined
to
produce
this
unique
heritage
site. In
the
morning,
you will
enjoy a
walking
tour
with
first
stop is
the
bustling
fish and
vegetable
market
and then
we will
go
through
the Old
Quarters
to see
the
town's
landmarks
of
Japanese
Covered
Bridge,
ancient
Assembly
Hall,
Phuc
Kien
Temple
and then
we take
a river
trip and
you will
enjoy
the
scenery
along
the Thu
Bon
River
and the
general
view of
Hoi An
Ancient
Town. It
transforms
itself
at
night,
when
many of
the
shops
hang
lanterns
outside.
We will
transfer
you back
to the
town and
rest of
time at
your own
leisure.
Hoi An
is well
know for
souvenir
shopping
with
great
prices
and also
famous
for its
large
number
of
tailor
shops,
so if
you want
to get a
cloth
tailor
made to
measure,
this is
the time
to do
it.
Overnight
at hotel
in Hoi
An.
Day 6: Hoi An - Hanoi
You will be free in the morning and then we will transfer you to the airport to take 1 hour flight to Hanoi City, the capital city of Vietnam, is an elegant city located on the banks of the Red River with tranquil Restored Sword Lake at its heart. North of the lake are the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, each street named after the trade that used to take place there. Much of the city was transformed by the French when it became a French protectorate in the 1880s and there are wide boulevards and large colonial buildings which are now home to government departments and foreign embassies. Transferring to your hotel in the city center to refresh. Overnight at hotel in Hanoi City.
Day 7: Hanoi Touring
This
comprehensive
day tour
takes in
all of
Hanoi's
essential
sites.
In the
morning
we will
visit
the Ho
Chi Minh
Mausoleum
and
historical
presidential
relics
and then
the
Temple
of
Literature
nearby.
Afterwards
we head
to Ngoc
Son
Temple
and Hoan
Kiem
Lake.
The Ngoc
Son
temple
is set
on a
tiny
island
on the
Hoan
Kiem
Lake and
dates
back to
the 13th
century.
The lake
itself
is a
picturesque
focal
point of
Hanoi,
frequented
by
tourists
and
locals
alike.
In the
afternoon,
we will
visit
Museum
of
Ethnology,
widely
acknowledged
as the
best in
the
country
which
houses a
display
dedicated
to
Vietnam's
54
ethnic
minority
peoples. Then we
will
take 1
hour by
cyclo
ride
through
Hanoi's
Old
Quarters
to
experience
daily
life of
people
who are
living
in the
oldest
parts of
the
city,
Enjoying
the
famous
traditional
water
puppetry
show in
Thang
Long
Theatre
where
you will
have
chance
to get a
general
picture
of the
daily
activities
typical
to
Vietnam's
rural
areas.
Overnight
at hotel
in
Hanoi.
Day 8: Halong Bay Tour
Morning
depart
for
Halong
Bay,
we
go
through
the
scenic
countryside.
The
wondrous
Halong
Bay
is
truly
one
of
Vietnam’s
most
impressive
scenic
sights.
Check-in
at
12:00
at
noon
and
embark
on a
junk
boat
for
an
exploration
of
the
legendary
Halong
Bay.
This
exciting
5 hour cruise
will
provide
us a
fantastic
view
of
the
picturesque
scenery
blending
with
the
sky
and
some
3,000
limestone
islands
rising
amazingly
from
the
clear
and
emerald
water.
The
limestone
karsts
formations
are
littered
with
beaches,
grottoes
and
beautiful
caves.
Along
the
way
we
will
anchor
for
a
leisurely
swim
in a
secluded
cove
and
an
enjoyable
visit
to
one
of
the
many
hidden
grottoes
beneath
towering
cliffs.
Transfer back to Hanoi and stay overnight at hotel in Hanoi City.
Day 9: Hanoi - Luang Prabang
Morning
flight
to Luang
Prabang.
On
arrival
at the
airport,
you will
be met
and
transferred
to your
hotel.
Luang
Prabang
was the
royal
capital
of the
former
Lane
Xang Kingdom, with its gleaming temple roofs, colonial architecture and stunning mountain backdrop retains a unique charm rarely found in all Asia. After a short rest, we then climb up to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as a beautiful sunset view of the city and the Mekong River. From there, we explore the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by the hilltribes and local people surrounding Luang Prabang. Overnight in Luang Prabang
Day 10: Luang Prabang
An
optional
early
start
gives
you the
fantastic
opportunity
to
participate
in the
daily
morning
rituals
of
saffron-clad
monks
collecting
offerings
of Alms
(often
in the
form of
sticky
rice)
from the
faithful
residents.
This
tradition
is very
unique
in Laos,
being
the only
Buddhist
nation
still
preserving
the
ritual.
Later,
we visit
the
National
Museum
(closed
Tuesdays)
at the
former
Royal
Palace.
It
displays
a
collection
of
artefacts
reflecting
the
richness
of Lao
culture
dating
from the
days of
the
early
kings
right
through
to the
last
sovereign.
In the
afternoon,
we enjoy
a
short-guided
tour
seeing
the
city’s
oldest
temple
of
impressive
stupa of
Wat
Visoun
and the
shrines
of Wat
Aham and
Wat Mai,
Wat Sene
and the
magnificent
Wat
Xieng
Thong
with its
roofs
sweeping
low to
the
ground,
which
represents
classical
Laotian
architecture.
Overnight
at hotel
in Luang
Prabang.
Day 11: Embark Luang Say Cruise
Your boat leaves Luang Prabang pier at 07:30 hrs for a cruise up the Mekong to Pakbeng. On the way to Pak-Ou Village, at the mouth of the Nam Ou River, a brief stop is made to see the traditional process of the production of local Lao rice wine, and to visit Tam Ting "Cave of a thousand Buddha's". After a buffet lunch on board, we continue the route to Pakbeng. We arrive at Pakbeng before sunset and check in at Luang Say Lodge. Dinner on the terrace, overlooking the Mekong River. Overnight in Pakbeng
Day 12: Arrive in Chiang Rai
Full breakfast at lodge. (Optional: walk to Pakbeng market, where people from the surrounding minority villages exchange their goods). At 08:00 hours, board the boat for the second leg of the cruise. En route one stop is made to observe rural life along the Mekong and visit minority ethnic groups, then a buffet lunch on board and on to Houei Say, where you will arrive before 17:00 hrs. Proceeding to Chiang Rai - Chiang Rai is the northernmost province of Thailand, located on the borders with Laos and Myanmar,68% of the land is mountainous 32% valleys. This city is the cross-roads of the famous Golden Triangle and its opium legend along with the remarkable scenery. With the towering mountains, craggy limestone peaks, great forests and waterfalls, Chiang Rai offers trekking adventures to open the gate to the northern way of life along with exotic hilltribe people. Check-in hotel and stay overnight in Chiang Rai.
Day 13: Chiang Mai Touring
Depart the hotel for the orchid farm and continue to Chiang Dao elephant training camp. Upon arrival there is a chance to walk around and watch the elephants taking their daily bath in the river before they begin to haul timber in the forest and see how trained elephants are used to help in logging. Proceed with 1 hour elephant ride through the natural surroundings. Set off through the mountain area to Tha Ton and lunch will be provided at local restaurant. Drive on to visit Padong (long necked Karen hilltribe) and take a chance to see Akha and Lahu hilltribe then proceed to Chiangrai. Overnight at the hotel in Chiangrai.
Day 14: Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai
After breakfast in the hotel, drive up the hill to enjoy the panoramic view of the Golden Triangle area, where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Burma convene and a stop will be made at the small opium museum. Proceed with a boat trip on the famous Mae Khong river and stop at the check point on a small island of Laos and continue by boat to the ancient city of Chiangsaen to visit Wat Chedi Luang Temple. Drive on to city of Chiangrai to get the impression of the layout and atmosphere of this city and proceed to see the only white temple, Wat Rong Khun and then we wil head for Chiang Mai. The trip to Chiang Mai is incomplete without visiting Night Bazaar. This extensive market sprawls along several blocks. Roofed concession areas, regular shops and street vendors offer a huge variety of Thai goods at bargain prices. Designer goods - real and fake - are also on offer. The Night Bazaar attracts foreign importers, impressed by the discounts given to bulk purchases. Overnight at hotel in Chiang Mai
Day 15: Chiang Mai - Bangkok
Fly to Bangkok and you will be met and greeted by our tour guide there. Bangkok is the financial, political and cultural capital of Thailand, located in the centre-south of the country, in the heart of a fertile rice-growing region. Bisected by the Chao Phraya River, which is overlooked by all the major palaces, Buddhist temples and luxury hotels, Bangkok is seventh heaven for those who love their food and their shopping. After checking in hotel, you will take a rest for a while and then we will take a half day temple tour. This half-day sightseeing tour in Bangkok will allow you the opportunity to explore the Grand Palace complex, which houses a number of attractions including Wat Phra Keow (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and then we will proceed to see Wat Traimit, Wat Pho and Wat Benchamabophit. Wat Traimit is also known as the temple of the Golden Buddha. The 3 meter tall statue is made from solid gold and weighs 5.5 tons and is a fine example of Sukhothai style art. You will then pass through Chinatown on your way to Wat Pho, the temple of the reclining Buddha. At 46 meters in length and 15 meters high the Buddha is the largest in Bangkok and illustrates the passing of the Buddha into nirvana. Your last stop is at Wat Benchamabophit, or the marble temple. This magnificent monastery was built out of white Italian marble from Carrara in the late 19th century. A fantastic way to end your day in Bangkok, this relaxing dinner cruise aboard one of Bangkok’s luxurious restaurant boats will take you through the heart the city along the Chao Phraya River past wonderful night time views of illuminated temples and sparkling skyscrapers. As you relax in modern comfort and dine on a variety of local, regional and international dishes you will pass landmarks like the Temple of Dawn, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Grand Palace. Transfer back to hotel and stay overnight at hotel in Bangkok.
Day 16: Bangkok - Yangon
Upon arrival at Yangon international airport, our tour guide would welcome you and transfer to the hotel for check in. After that sightseeing start in Yangon, including Sule Pagoda in the heart of the city, Chauktatgyi Pagoda, one of the biggest colossal reclining Buddha image in Myanmar. Special evening visit to the massive Shwedagon Pagoda – famous worldwide – its golden stupa is the ‘ Heart ’ of Buddhism Myanmar. The Pagoda is believed to be 2,500 years old and the central stupa in surrounded by dozens of intricately decorated buildings and statues. There are always many Myanmar People praying and making offerings. Overnight at hotel in Yangon.
Day 17: Yangon - Bagan
After breakfast at the hotel, early morning flight to Bagan (domestic schedule flight, ~ 1 ½ hour flying) situated in Central Myanmar, on the East bank of the mighty Ayeyarwaddy River, to discover its glorious past and histories. Arrive at Nyaung U Airport and transfer to hotel for check. Whole day sightseeing of Bagan’s most famous temples and pagodas ranging from the temples with the earliest wall paintings to the prototype pagoda the influenced the designs of later Buddhist monuments. Tour highlights include colorful Nyaung Oo Market, and Shwezigon Pagoda – built by King Anawrahta in the early 11th century as a religious shrine, then go to Ananda Temple – King Kyansittha’s masterpiece and the crowning achievement of the early style temple of architecture, next is Thatbyinnyu Temple – the highest building on the Bagan plain, after that visit to Htilominlo Temple – the largest temple of Bagan – noted for its fine plaster carvings and glazed sandstone decorations. In the afternoon observe the process of traditional lacquer ware, one of Myanmar’s best known handicrafts and a specialty of Bagan. Then visit Manuha Temple, Myingabar Gubyaugyi Temple – an early period Pyu-style temple of Hindu influence with some of the oldest mutual paintings in Bagan and Dhamanyangyi Temple noted for its remarkable brickwork. Lastly enjoy the sunset over the Ayeyarwaddy River from Buphaya or Shwesandaw Pagoda. Overnight at hotel in Bagan.
Day 18: Bagan - Mandalay
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to airport for flight to Mandalay (domestic flight 30 minute flying). Mandalay, the commercial centre and cultural tourism site, was established in 1857 by King Mindon, Arrive at Tada Oo International airport and drive to Mandalay and check in at the hotel. Visit Mahamuni Buddha Image, Zegyo Market and some of Mandalay’s cottage industries, such as weaving and tapestry making, Burmese candy making, Bamboo fan making near Eindaw Yar Pagoda, Atumahsi Monastery and Shwenandaw Monastery (Golden Palace Monastery), Kuthodaw (Maha Lawkamarazein Pagoda) which is famous as the world largest book of many stone slabs on which is inscribed the whole Buddhist Literature.. In the evening, enjoy the panoramic view of the city from Mandalay Hill. Overnight stay at hotel in Mandalay.
Day 19: Mandalay - Heho - Inle Lake
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport to leave for Heho (domestic flight 30 minute flying_. Arrive at Heho Airport and drive to Nyaung Shwe (, ~30 km, 1 hour driving) and transfer to hotel by boat to Inle Lake. Being located at the 900 meters above sea level, Inle Lake is the second largest natural lake in Myanmar with hazy blue mountains as backdrop. Visit Phaungdaw Oo Pagoda, the most famous pagoda of the Shan State. Ywa-Ma village, gold and sliver smiths’ workshop. After lunch, visit Jumping Cat Monastery and floating gardens, local methods of fishing, village life and the famous leg rowers. In the evening, enjoy the sunset while visiting the Inle Lake by boat. and overnight.
Day 20: Bagan - Yangon
After breakfast, transfer to the airport and flight back to Yangon. Arrive at Yangon and visit to Bogyoke Market (Scott’s Market) where you can find local products such as Gems & Jewelry, slippers, cloth, and so on. Then transfer to the Yangon International Airport for the departure flight back to Bangkok. Check-in hotel and stay overnight at hotel in Bangkok.
Day 21: Bangkok Departure.
Free at
leisure
until we
will
transfer
you to
the
airport
to take
your
flight
onward.
End of
service.
