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SMALL GROUP TOUR

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Travel small, travel smart

Small group touring is about being shown around by a

local and really capturing the essence of the destination.

It’s so much more than just a coach tour, it’s about

experiencing the culture, meeting the locals and

savouring the food.

With our first hand destination knowledge and

impeccable attention to detail, the tours in this brochure

are suitable to first time travellers. Our well-balanced

itineraries are designed specifically for small groups. We

put great effort into getting the right balance between

organised touring and free time, after all it is a holiday!

The sightseeing too, needs to be balanced so you don’t

suffer ‘temple overload’. It’s about taking the time to

really experience a destination rather than ‘ticking off’

tourist sights as quickly as possible.

We also include a range of experiences designed to

capture the essence of the places we visit. Experiences

like visiting a local family in a small rural village in

Cambodia, travelling by traditional sampans in the

Mekong Delta.

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VIETNAM TOUR

SUMMARY

Key facts 11 Essence of Vietnam (11 days) 12 Northern Vietnam Discovery (10 days) 14 LAOS TOUR

Key facts 17 Laos Overland (7 days) 18 Laos Odyssey (14 days) 20 CAMBODIA TOUR

Key facts 23 Highlights of Cambodia (7 days) 24 Grand Tour of Cambodia (13 days) 26

Edito 02 Introduction to Indochina 06 Our vision of group tour 08

MULTI-COUNTRY TOUR

Indochina in a nutshell (12 days) 30 Indochina Odyssey (19 days) 32 Vietnam&Cambodia Encompassed (10 days) 34 Mekong Journey (10 days) 36

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Discover the exotic charms of Indochina

Join us on a journey through the countries of Indochina to encounter a variety of ethnicities rich in exotic customs and fascinating cultures. With diverse histories, vibrant cities and beautiful natural landscapes, the highlight will be the locals who will welcome you and share the pride of their homelands

Good morning Vietnam From the magnificent towering limestone karsts and secluded waterways of Halong Bay, to the point where the Mekong meets the sea, the spectacular scenery of Vietnam envelops. The influence of the French is evident in both the city architecture and the baguettes sold on the street, but Vietnam’s unique culture and history is proudly on display in its ancient pagodas, bustling markets, rice paddies, charming people and world-famous cuisine. Take a journey back in time on a visit to the mountain town of Sapa, home to a number of local Hmong minority people where colorful traditional dress is still worn.

The character of Cambodia After 25 years of isolation, Cambodia opened its doors to tourists in mid 1990s. From cruising on Tonle Sap through floating villages and discovering the charms of Siem Reap, your Cambodian itinerary will also showcase the legacy of the Khmer Rouge in Phnom Penh. Perhaps the ultimate highlight is visiting the magnificent 12th century World Heritage listed Angkor Wat man-made temple complex. Scattered through a vast forest, the ancient capital of the great Khmer empire is truly one of the most incredible wonders of the world.

A Laotian story From riding an elephant to witnessing the morning rituals of the monks collecting alms, discovering Laos, one of Asia’s hidden gems, is an enriching adventure. Experience the taste of authentic Laotian coffee and watching the sunset on the Mekong. Visit the sleepy capital Vientiane and its spiritual heart, the charming ancient capital Luang Prabang and the World Heritage listed Wat Phou temple in

the lesser visited Champassak Province of Southern Laos

Explore local markets

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Discover ancient temples Experience religious ceremonies Encounter captivating moments

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SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL We believe that being a member of a small group ensures that you have more personalized attention and that you can blend in more with the locals. For you, the benefits are obvious – more room in the bus, more opportunities to take in all the sights and sounds and more unobstructed snapshots. The maximum group size you could expect is 25 people, although it is more likely that you will be travelling with 10-16 people. All tours are fully escorted by our knowledgeable and helpful local guides

GETTING AROUND When our groups travel by road, we use modern, air-conditioned coaches that are perfect for small group travel. If there are 10 passengers, we use an 16-seater coach. If there are more than 15 passengers, we provide a 30-35 seater coach to ensure that everyone has enough leg room and that there are plenty of window seats to choose from. Because we want you to experience all forms of transport that our destinations have to offer, we routinely offer comfortable boat, rail and plane travel on our itineraries.

CHOICE OF ACCOMMODATION All hotels are not the same, even if they are in a similar price range. We make a special effort to make sure that we use only the best quality hotels within the price range included in your tour. Countries in Indochina adopt various classification systems for hotels in accordance to their chain name and the type of hotel. Please be ensured that all hotels used by us are inspected by our staff so that our high standards do not drop. In the case of remote areas, we will be using local best hotels to accommodate our tours

OUR VISION OF GROUP TRAVEL

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EXPERIENCE LOCAL FOOD Most of tours are meals inclusive including breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast is a combination of local and western food, usually served in a buffet style. For lunch and dinner, we carefully select the dishes on the menu, making sure that group members sample the specialties of the region. Restaurants are chosen for their ability to provide high quality food and service to groups. If your customers have any special dietary requirements, let us know and we will arrange everything.

INCREDIBLE VALUE We offer genuine value for money and good old-fashioned family values and service. There’s a real difference between cheap and value. We’ll never be cheap by cutting corners. Rather we use our industry knowledge and experience to provide you with the best possible value. Our team has worked in every facet of the travel industry, including airlines, travel agencies, tour operations and hotels. This gives us an unique insight into how the industry works and how to get the very best value for money for our clients

FULLY INCLUSIVE With more than 15 years handling escorted tours, we know that first-time travellers are more likely to choose fully inclusive packages. Our tours are inclusive of domestic and inter-regional economy flights, accommodation, meals, local guides, taxes, entrance fees, transfer throughout. The more we are precise, the more comfortable the tours are

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Vietnam

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History and culture The past and the present are encapsulated perfectly in Vietnam, combining to create a unique and exciting culture. Timeless scenes abound, from floating markets on the Mekong Delta to the green patchwork of rice paddies, water buffalo and conical-hatted farm workers. In the north, tiny mountain villages still exist, and traditional costumes remain proudly worn. Vietnam is part of the single entity of Indochina, which originated in October 1887 with French colonisation, together with Cambodia and Laos. This amalgamation resulted in a fascinating part of the world with a tumultuous history. The French Indochina federation lasted until 1954. This saw the start of the US commitment to South Vietnam, eventually leading to the Vietnam War. Since the reunification of North and South Vietnam in 1975, which ended years of war, Vietnam has gone through a renaissance.

When to go The climate in Vietnam varies greatly from the north to south with three distinct climatic zones; therefore, there is no one ideal time to visit the country as a whole. Due to the tropical monsoon season, the peak travel times for the north and south is between September and March, while the beaches of central Vietnam are very busy May to August.

Natural wonders Many travellers to Vietnam visit for the country’s natural beauty. From the emerald-green rice fields dotted with workers’ conical hats in the north, to the south’s fascinating bustle of the Mekong Delta, beauty abounds. Natural highlights of Vietnam include Halong Bay, where you can kayak between limestone islands rising from the ocean, as well as the white-sand beaches of the central coastline, including the beaches of Nha Trang and the pristine waters of Phu Quoc Island. Dining Achieving a delicate balance between fresh herbs and meats, with the selective use of spices, Vietnamese is considered to be one of the world’s healthiest cuisines, as well as the most delicious. Main dishes are based on rice, soy sauce and fish sauce and the most common herbs may include lemon grass, lime or kaffir and chili. Pho (soups) are a favourite: pho bo is a sliced beef version and probably the most popular of all the pho varieties.

Shopping The streets of Vietnam are awash with markets and shops selling items from fresh flowers to imitationlabel clothing, all at fantastic prices. Markets are a great place to buy souvenirs, fresh fruit and vegetables, and range from shopping malls to open markets, galleries, boutiques and street stalls. Vietnam is most famous for its handicrafts, antiques and gems.

KEY FACTS

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This itinerary is ideal for travelers whose time is limited but still want to experience the diversity of Vietnam. Most travelers to Vietnam are attracted by the country’s natural diversity: from the green rice fields in the north to the fascinating bustle of the Mekong Delta in the south. So with this tour, take the time for an in-depth journey through Vietnam that spans the entire length of the country. In this tour, we suggest flights between each city, enabling you to make the most of your time

KEY FACTS

ESSENCE OF VIETNAM 11 days / 10 nights

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Day 9 : HCM / Cu Chi / Tay Ninh Today, we head out of the city to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, an incredible underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters during the war with the USA. After lunch, we drive through the typical southern Vietnamese countryside to Tay Ninh Province. At Tay Ninh we visit the Cao Dai Great Temple, with its architecture looking as though it could have come straight from a Walt Disney movie.

Day 10 : HCM / Mekong Delta Today includes a full day trip to the Mekong Delta. Essential to the very livelihoods of its people, the myriad network of channels and tributaries that make up the Mekong Delta offers a spectacular window upon life along the banks of this mighty river. Embark on your private boat and cruise to the evergreen islands, located in the Mekong River, through large networks of meandering rivers which are criss-crossed with countless canals. We return to Saigon early in the evening.

Day 11 : HCM departure Today marks the end of our tour and after breakfast we will transfer you to the airport for your onward departure flight

PROGRAMME

Day 1 : Hanoi arrival Arrive in the morning where you will be met by our representative and transferred to the hotel for early check-in with breakfast included. Begin your exploration of the Vietnamese capital by taking a cyclo ride through the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter with its myriad of artisans and craft shops. Afternoon at leisure. This evening attend a water puppet performance.

Day 2 : Hanoi This morning, we head out for a city tour of Hanoi, featuring the One Pillar Pagoda, which has become an important symbol for the people of Hanoi. Your next stop will be the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. After lunch, continue to West Lake and one of the oldest Buddhist pagodas in Hanoi, Tran Quoc, and the nearby Taoist temple of Quan Thanh. In the afternoon, take a walking tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, also known as the ‘36 streets’.

Day 3 : Hanoi / Halong Bay In the morning transfer to Halong Bay to board the traditional junk boat. On embarking your boat, enjoy a trip through the spectacular rocky scenery, with lunch served on board. The one night cruise provides views of stunning mountain scenery and floating villages as well as opportunities to explore the natural

wonders of the bay.

Day 4 : Halong Bay / Hanoi / Hoian After breakfast continue cruising through Halong Bay admiring the beautiful scenery and visit one of the caves. Mid morning check out of your cabin and return by road to Hanoi. Transfer to the airport for the flight to the city of Danang then transfer to the captivating nearby trading port of Hoi An

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Day 5 : Hoi An This morning enjoy a walking tour in Hoi An ancient centre. This destination is famous for the charming old-world trading port of narrow streets and traditional houses. Stop at the home of a craftsman in the old quarter for a silk lantern making workshop. The afternoon is free to relax on the beach or spend further time exploring the old town.

Day 6 : Hoi An / Hue This morning is free at leisure. Return to the hotel to check out, and then transfer to Danang to visit the fascinating Cham Museum displaying a diverse collection of Champa sculptures dating from the 7th to 15th century. Afterwards continue over the Hai Van Pass to the city of Hue, the capital of Vietnam under the powerful Nguyen Dynasty

Day 7 : Hue A morning boat trip along the Perfume River brings you to the enchanting Thien Mu Pagoda and the impressive tomb of Minh Mang. In the afternoon visit the moated Citadel and Imperial City, including the Forbidden Purple City reserved for the private life of the Emperor.

Day 8 : Hue / HCM Fly this morning to Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy an afternoon visiting the Former Presidential Palace of Southern Vietnam. From there we stroll to the major sights of colonial Ho Chi Minh City: the Old Saigon Post Office, Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat), the Continental Hotel, the Opera House and City Hall. This evening an optional ‘Saigon by Vespa’ tour is available for those who are keen to experience this vibrant city the way the locals do – on two wheels!

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Home to a diverse array of ethnic minorities, spectacular mountain scenery, and rugged terrain, the remote north of Vietnam has much to offer. On this exciting trip, you will experience the contrasts of charming Hanoi, the spectacular karst scenery of Halong Bay, and the vibrant Hilltribe villages around Sapa. This is the perfect journey for those with limited time looking for a truly authentic travel experience.

KEY FACTS

NORTHERN VIETNAM DISCOVERY 10 days / 9 nights

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Day 8 : Halong Bay After breakfast, transfer to our day-boat which will take you to Cat Ba Island. Dropping anchor at Viet Hai jetty, cycle or get a motorbike ride through the jungle to reach the village. Wander around the fields and houses, hike in the forest and immerse yourself in Cat Ba National Park lush vegetation. Kayak, swim, or just enjoy the quiet and splendid setting. Back on the main vessel, relax and enjoy the facilities at leisure.

Day 9 : Halong Bay / Hanoi Early birds can attend a Tai Chi demonstration on the sundeck at the break of dawn. Continue exploring Halong Bay sailing across its 2000 islets and visiting some of its major highlights. Your boat will come to an end on Tuan Chau Island around 11h00. We drive back to Hanoi and you have free time in the afternoon.

Day 10 : Hanoi departure Today marks the end of our tour and after breakfast we will transfer you to the airport for your onward departure flight

PROGRAMME

Day 1 : Hanoi arrival Greeting by local tour guide up on arrival. Then transfer to Hanoi centre and check in hotel in the morning. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Litterature that is the first Vietnamese University founded in 11e century. Then hop on a cyclo tour to have the first impression of daily life in the Old Quarter, followed by the Water Puppet show.

Day 2 : Hanoi Today, we begin with the visit to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and get to know about his life. Then visit Tran Quoc pagoda and Quan Thanh temple to understand the Vietnamese spiritual life. In the afternoon, plunge into the labyrinth of narrow streets in the Old Quarter, the lively blood of the capital. The walking tour ends up at Dong Xuan market, considered as the “grand bazaar” of Hanoi and the group can try the art of bargaining like any Vietnamese does.

Day 3 : Hanoi / Lao Cai Today immerse yourself in ancient Vietnamese culture with an excursion to Duong Lam, one of the country's few remaining ancient villages. After lunch, drive back to Hanoi and visit the Ethnology Museum. Then have dinner at a restaurant and head for the overnight train towards Lao Cai.

Day 4 : Sapa / Lao Chai / Ta Van From Lao Cai station, transfer to Sapa. Start the excursion today with a walk through the town of Sapa and along a dirt trail through vegetable gardens and rice paddy terraces. Get through Y Linh Ho village of Black H’mong minority, where you will take a rest and have lunch. The path links the village with Ta Van village, the only one in the valley inhabited by Giay minority. Overnight in Ta Van village.

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Day 5 : Ta Van / Su Pan / Ban Ho Visit the Red Dzao in GiangTaChai village by way of terraced paddy fields and bamboo forests. Enjoy the natural beauty of Silver Waterfall and Rattan Bridge. Cross the river and continue going to BanHo village where the Tay people settle down. On the way to BanHo, there is more chance to see the Red Dzao and the Black H'mong in Supan village. Overnight in BanHo village

Day 6 : Ban Ho / Lao Cai Breakfast with the family and leave the village for a waterfall discovered by French people. Enjoy the view, swimming and return to BanHo to visit the people in the village. Say goodbye to the family and get up to the main road where to take a jeep back to Sapa in the afternoon. Free time for shower and dinner before we take the overnight train fron Lao Cai

Day 7 : Hanoi / Halong Bay Arrive in Hanoi in early morning, transfer to a hotel nearby for refreshment and breakfast. Then drive to Ha Long through the countryside of the Red Delta River. We arrive on Tuan Chau Island around 12h00 and embark on a traditional wooden junk. The boat will begin its cruise through the region past small limestone islands.

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Laos

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History and culture The population of Laos is made of up of more than 100 different ethnic groups, with each having their own distinct clothing, language, customs and way of life. The Lao Loum, who reside in the lowlands along the Mekong, make up the largest ethnic group. Smaller ethnic groups include the Hmong and Mien, both highland dwellers, and the Lao Thoeng, who prefer the lower mountains.

Generally, Laotians are known for their laidback lifestyle and calm, steady approach to life. With emphasis on the simple pleasures of family, food and religion, most people from Laos remain closely connected to their family and village for a lifetime. Most Laotians live in villages, rather than the city, where the sense of community is strong and people are connected to their neighbours and friends. Visiting wats (temples) to make offerings and give alms to monks is a common part of daily life for most, with much respect and reverence reserved for monks.

When to go Laos is a great place to visit at any time of the year as the weather doesn't vary much – it’s always hot and humid! The coolest time to visit is from November to January. This is also the driest time, and the main festival period, so it’s an interesting time to travel through Laos. ntly during this time, temperatures average over 30 degrees Celsius and although some roads may be closed due to flooding, it is a great time for river travel.

Main spots Vientiane is the capital of Laos. Located on the banks of the Mekong River, the city offers a mix of ancient gilded Buddhist temples and French colonial architecture.

Luang Prabang located on the bank of the Mekong River, this peaceful and charming town with its multiple temples and buildings dating from the colonial period is the former royal capital.

Xieng Khuang : province of high mountains, karstic formations and green valleys, Xieng Kuang is the gateway to the mysterious plain of Jars, where scattered in the middle of the meadow, jars of all sizes can be seen.

Pakse : Located in the south of Laos, Pakse is the second largest town of Laos. Although this small town is not yet well developed this is the gateway for excursions to Wat Phou, a Khmer temple dating from the 8-11th century and classified as a World Heritage site, and to the Khong Islands

Shopping Laotian weavers are responsible for crafting an impressive range of top-quality fabric wonders. Silk and cotton are the most common and with everything from handmade bags, scarves, cushion covers, placemats and linen on offer, it won’t be hard to go

over your luggage limit here

KEY FACTS

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Exloring Laos with limited time makes good planning very importent. This program introduces travelers to the “must-see” highlights of Laos, including the modern capital of Vientiane and the ancient northern capital of Luang Prabang. You’ll experience the raw spirituality of this beautiful country as well as the wild adventure. The itinerary can easily be added onto other touring in Southeast Asia for those who are interested in a short stopover in Laos.

KEY FACTS

LAOS OVERLAND 7 days / 6 nights

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Day 6 : L.Prabang/ Pak Ou Discover more of Luang Prabang’s holy sites with a morning visit to Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong. Sit back and enjoy the views of tranquil countryside as we cruise upstream on the Mekong River to reach the mysterious Pak Ou caves. Crammed with Buddha images of all shapes and sizes, these two caves stand in the lower part of a limestone cliff overlooking the river. Along the way sample local rice wine at the village of Ban Xanghai and shop for local handicrafts at the village of Ban Phanom, known for its hand weaving

Day 7 : L.Prabang departure Farewell Laos today as you are transferred, with a guide, to the airport for your exit flight

PROGRAMME

Day 1 : Vientiane arrival Airport arrival transfer and hotel check in. Spend the afternoon and evening at leisure

Day 2 : Vientiane After breakfast we explore the charming and laid-back capital of Laos with a city tour. Visit the oldest Buddhist monastery temple in the country - Wat Si Saket . Learn about Laos’ tragic past and present suffering at the COPE Centre, an organization that works with victims of unexploded bombs and mines. Next visit Pha That Luang, the most important monument in Laos. Stop to view the imposing Patuxay monument - Vientiane’s own Arc de Triomphe. Later enjoy time exploring the hundreds of Hindu and Buddhist sculptures scattered throughout Buddha Park. End the day with a sunset dinner besides the Mekong River

Day 3 : Vientiane / Vang Vieng We leave the capital early and journey north through lush countryside to Vang Vieng. Along the way we will stop at the colourful market of Thalat, where local hill tribes come to trade and shop and also visit the archaeological site of Vang Xang that dates back to the 11th century. Arriving at Vang Vieng, nestled on the banks of the Nam Song River is our delightfully rustic and rural hotel. The remainder of the day offers free time

Day 4 : V.Vieng / Luang Prabang Experience the magnificence of Nam Ngum Lake and the mountainous surroundings while learning the significance of this artificially dammed lake that churns out hydroelectric power and revenue for the country. Revel in the natural scenery of this largest lake in Laos as you cruise slowly on the lake and observe fishermen in their daily activities. Gain further insights into local livelihoods at Ban Kheune’s salt mine and local market before making our way

further north to the UNESCO World

Heritage listed city of Luang Prabang.

Day 5 : L.Prabang / Khuang Si Consider rising early this morning to view the daily ritual of saffron-clad monks and their procession down the streets of Luang Prabang collecting alms from the residents. After we commence our sightseeing tour of this enchanting city, starting with a visit to the oldest temple in Luang Prabang, Wat Visoun, and the banyan tree graced grounds of Wat Aham, we stop at the Ock Pop Tok weaving centre. Later we marvel at the former Royal Palace, now a national museum and home to gilded rooms and Buddha artifacts. In the afternoon we stop at ethnic minority villages before arriving at the beautiful Khuang Si waterfall. Dip in the turquoise pools or take a walk along the forest trails.

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Laos is slowly earning a reputation for its laid-back atmosphere and rich cultural heritage, a fascinating blend that is attracting an increasing number of curious travellers keen to cover a path less travelled. This tour is the ideal introduction to the wonderful country of Laos. It takes in the highlights of one of the world's sleepiest capitals, including visits to areas of outstanding natural beauty, sites of historical importance, magnificent temples, hill tribe villages and bustling and colourful markets

LAOS ODYSSEY 14 days / 13 nights

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to the Bolovens Plateau. Visit the Tad Lo jungle and thundering down into a deep gorge. From here, we visit coffee plantations of the Bolovens Plateau. Return to Pakse in the late afternoon

Day 11 : Pakse / Champassak Start the day with a longtail riverboat to Champassak then embark Wat Phou boat, a former ferry converted in river cruise. Visit Wat Phou ruins - the majestic pre-Angkorian 10th century temple complex. As dusk falls, we come back to the Wat Phou boat for a chance to enjoy the tropical sunset on the deck.

Day 12 : Champassak/Don Khon Visit Huei Thamo village and the mysterious hidden forest temple of Oum Muong. Afterwards we rejoin the boat to continue our cruise towards the wild paradise of the "4,000 Islands". Walk through Ban Deua Tia, a small Laotian Village where the traditional way of life has not changed in centuries.

Day 13 : Don Khon / Pakse Board a small boat to meander among the 4,000 Islands to Khon Island. Visit the old French railway and walk across the bridge that links Khone and Det Islands. Visit the historically significant Pha Pheng waterfall, "the Niagara of the East". Transfer back to Pakse for the end of the cruise experience.

Day 14 : Pakse departure After breakfast, transfer to airport for your onward flight.

PROGRAMME

Day 1 : L.Prabang arrival Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in. After lunch, start an orientation tour of this unique town. As today comes to a close, we climb Mount Phousi to watch the sun set against the stunning backdrop of the city and surrounding hills

Day 2 : L.Prabang Begin with a visit to the former Royal Palace, now the National Museum, it is home to exhibits of art and jewels from the former royal family. Continue on foot to Wat Mai, a temple renowned for its golden bas-relief. Continue to the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre, a museum dedicated to exploring the rich diversity of Laos’ ethnic minorities.

Day 3 : L.Prabang / Pak Ou Visit Wat Xieng Thong, symbol of the city, adorned with golden gates and ornaments. From here, we board a longboat and gently sail through the stunning scenery of the upper Mekong to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, carved out of a towering limestone cliff. As we cruise back to Luang Prabang, we’ll stop at Ban Xang Hay. This village specializes in making traditional rice-wine. After lunch, free time to explore further this charming town on your own.

Day 4 : L.Prabang / Khuang Si We travel to Khuang Si Waterfalls. Relax and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. After picnic lunch, we depart for the Bear Rescue Centre where we can learn about the protection of this endangered species. On the way back to Luang Prabang we stop by several villages where you will discover more about Kamu way of living and the traditional handicrafts of weaving

Day 5 : L.Prabang / Xieng Khuang We drive to Xieng Khuang, which was

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devastated by American bombing between 1964 and 1973.Its scenery is characterized by green hills and pine forests. Along the way we visit the impressive Tham Pha Cave. We will then visit “The Plain of Jars”, impressive archeological sight with thousands of megalithic stone jars.

Day 6 : Xieng Khuang We visit the Hmong village of Ban Thachok. Next we move on to see the nearby Hot Springs.Developed into a resort with bungalows and bathing facilities it lies along a road passing through attractive scenery, small villages growing chilies and mountains and hills covered with rice fields.

Day 7 : Xieng Khuang/ Vang Vieng Travel to Muang Khoune, once the Royal Capital City and the centre of the Phuan Kingdom. In the afternoon we drive on past incredible mountain scenery to the beautiful town of Vang Vieng where we’ll stay tonight.

Day 8 : Vang Vieng / Vientiane Discover Vang Vieng surrounded by spectacular limestone karst terrain. We’ll visit Tham Jang cave, the most famous of Vang Vieng’s caves. We then drive to Vientiane, along the way stopping at the beautiful Nam Ngum Lake, this huge artificial lake was created by damming the Nam Ngum River.

Day 9 : Vientiane Start our tour of the city visiting the major sights of the capital including Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple, That Luang, the most famous landmark in Vientiane and Patouxai “the victory gate”. In the afternoon, visit Buddha Park, a blend of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures

Day 10 : Vientiane / Pakse Morning flight to Pakse. On arrival transfer

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Cambodia

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History and culture The Khmer culture has lasted for centuries, and is based on tradition, honouring ancestors, respecting elders and living a life of honesty, humility and kindness. Which is probably why Cambodians are known for being some of the most warm, hospitable and humble people in the world. Above all these qualities, Cambodians are known for their remarkable ability to get on with life after enduring the atrocities that ravaged the country in the 1970s Most Khmer people are Buddhist. Monks are highly regarded and respected in society, and religious festivals and ceremonies are important parts of daily life. When visiting Cambodia, expect to see orange-robed monks and many displays of faith - from people visiting large, elaborate temples to them praying over small, humble shrines. Despite the infiltration of modern ideas and concepts, Khmer

customs and traditions are kept alive

When to go Any time of the year is a good time to travel in Cambodia, with each season having its advantages. The climate in Cambodia is generally hot and humid throughout the year. Temperatures stay in the 30s most of the year, dropping back to the 20s at night. There are officially two seasons in Cambodia – wet and dry. During November to May you can expect dry conditions, while June to October will have wetter weather.

Main attractions Contemporary Cambodia is the successor state to the mighty Khmer empire. The remains of this empire can be seen at the fabled temples of Angkor, monuments unrivalled in scale and grandeur in southeast Asia. Just as Angkor is more than its wat, so too is Cambodia more than its temples. The chaotic yet charismatic capital of Phnom Penh is a hub of political intrigue, economic vitality and intellectual debate. Siem Reap and Phnom Penh may be the heavyweights, but to some extent they are a bubble, a world away from the Cambodia of the countryside. This is the place to experience the rhythm of rural life and time-less landscapes of dazzling rice paddies and swaying sugar palms. The South Coast is fringed by tropical islands, with just a

handful of beach huts in sight.

Cuisine Khmer food takes influences from a variety of countries. Cambodia was a French colony for many years and also has many Chinese immigrants, so both French and Chinese foods are widely found. In the west of the country, the cuisine is, naturally, influenced by the food of neighbouring Thailand while in the east the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine are more evident. In the Khmer diet, rice and freshwater fish play big roles because of the abundance of both.

KEY FACTS

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This itinerary is an ideal first-time tour of Cambodia, which introduces you true insights into Cambodia’s history, culture, beauty and its unique charm. Undoubtedly we will explore famous temples of Angkor and a capital city of Kingdom of Wonders, Phnom Penh.

KEY FACTS

HIGHLIGHTS OF CAMBODIA 7 days / 6 nights

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Day 6 : Siem Reap After breakfast, Enjoy a boat trip on the Tonle Sap Lake, where you will have the opportunity to learn about life on the lake. Visit Kampong Phluck, a submerged village where you will see houses on stilts that are submerged when Tonle Sap Lake extends. On the way, you will pass floating houses and impressive flooded forests, portraying life on the water. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure for some relaxation at your hotel or for some personal shopping on Siem Reap's interesting markets. You may visit Les Artisan D’Angkor established in 1992 in order to support Cambodian arts and crafts, and to help young people find work in their local villages by continuing the practice of traditional arts.

Day 7 : Siem Reap departure Breakfast at the hotel and free time until your transfer to Siem Reap Airport for your onward flight.

PROGRAMME

Day 1 : Phnom Penh arrival Arrive in Phnom Penh and be welcomed by your local guide. Time to relax before stretching your legs with an introductory walking tour, taking in the historic French Quarter, Wat Phnom and the lively waterfront area as well as giving you a feel for the bustling street-life before finishing perhaps, with sundowners at the famous Foreign Correspondents Club.

Day 2 : Phnom Penh Day tour of some of the sites of Cambodia’s fascinating capital city: the infamous Killing Fields site and the highly moving Khmer Rouge Genocide Museum at Tuol Sleng help to explain the country’s recent tragic history, the picturesque Royal palace and Silver pagoda will provide plenty of photo opp’s whilst the Russian Market offers some ‘retail therapy’ and a chance for a local style lunch.

Day 3 : Phnom Penh / Siem Reap Up country through Cambodia’s scenic countryside to the small provincial town of Siem Reap in Western Cambodia – our base for the next few days and jumping off point for the nearby Angkor Temple complex. Stops on the way at the famous ‘spider village’ of Skuon, (tasting not compulsory), the rarely visited but well preserved 10th century temple of Kuhananokor and lunch by the Tonle Sap Lake. A dusk visit to the atmospheric ruins of Banteay Kdei completes our day.

Day 4 : Siem Reap This morning you will start the day with a 10-minute tandem hot air balloon ride where you will view Angkor Wat at a distance. Continue to the South Gate of Angkor Thom City. First, explore the The Bayon, known for its decorative Khmer temple adorned with massive, serene stone faces that tower around the central peak. Your tour then continues with visits to BaphuonTemple, The Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, The Terrace of Elephants and The Terrace of Leper Kings. Enjoy lunch before entering the magnificent Angkor Wat Temple, easily the most famous and best preserved of all the structures within the complex.

Day 5 : Siem Reap We’ll begin with a forest hike up Bakheng Hill to visit the spectacular Phnom Bahkeng Temple and check out the views before moving on to the huge jungle-clad ruin of Preah Khan. Dense jungle, enormous roots and trees and screeching parakeets make this atmospheric temple one of everyone’s favourites. After a midday break in Siem Reap Town- the afternoon programme continues with a short jungle walk to Ta Keo via the remote and rarely visited Ta Nei Temple. A visit to the famous Ta Prom ruins – the famous ‘Tomb Raider’ Temple continues our jungle theme and concludes our day’s visit.

26| SMALL GROUP TOUR

This itinerary offers a chance to explore this wonderful country in depth. A chance to take in its varied scenery and learn more about its contrasting history and interesting people than a standard tour. Whilst the main sites are all included, there is also the opportunity to visit local villages, discover lesser-known temples and enjoy the beautiful Cambodian countryside. You'll take in the obvious highlights like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh but this tour will also take you through the remote waterways and ethnic jungle villages. You'll have time to see the Irrawaddy dolphins on the Mekong River and you'll get to explore the interesting colonial market towns of Battambang.

GRAND TOUR OF CAMBODIA 13 days / 12 nights

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Day 9 : Siem Reap Visit Beng Mealea and enjoy a short walk through the dense jungle and discover the wonders of an overgrown temple. From here, travel to Banteay Srey that displays some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art.

Day 10 : Siem Reap/Battambang Embark on a private boat to Battambang, home to some of the most well preserved colonial French buildings in the country. Cruising along the Tonlé Sap Lake you will encounter a rich and diverse eco-system and stilted houses, as you absorb the tranquil rhythms of life on the river. This afternoon, free time at your leisure

Day 11 : Battambang Visit Phnom Sampeau, home to the killing caves and a small temple, representing both serenity and inhumanity in one place. Continue the tour with a ride on a bamboo train and visit Wat Banan, an 11-century temple on a mountain top situated between lush paddy fields and beautiful lotus ponds. This afternoon, visit cultural villages around Battambang, where you will learn local handicrafts.

Day 12 : Battambang/Phnom Penh Travel to Kampong Chhnang, known for its traditional pottery. Continue to Oudong, the former royal capital of Cambodia. This afternoon, you will drive to Phnom Penh stopping at Koh Chen, an island in the Tonlé Sap River known as the 'Silver Village' due to its production of 'silver' based crafts.

Day 13 : Phnom Penh departure Enjoy today at leisure until it is time for your transfer to Phnom Penh International Airport for your onward departure

PROGRAMME

Day 1 : Phnom Penh arrival Upon arriving, transfer to hotel. In the afternoon, visit the opulent Royal Place, home to Cambodia's Royal family, and the National Museum, with its superb collection of Khmer art.

Day 2 : Phnom Penh Visit Wat Phnom which demonstrates some good examples of Khmer architecture and statues. Continue along the riverfront to the Royal Palace. This afternoon, visit the remarkable Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, housed in a former school that was taken over by the Khmer Rouge and used as its main detention and torture center

Day 3 : P.Penh / Kampong Cham Head to Kampong Cham, a former French trading post town and soak in the scenery of rural Cambodia as you drive past cashew nut plantations, rice fields, and traditional villages. The afternoon is at your leisure.

Day 4 : Kampong Cham / Kratie Set out for a countryside tour and then board a boat to try and catch a glimpse of the endangered, freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins. This afternoon, cross the river to the island of Koh Trong and experience typical Cambodian village life.

Day 5 : Kratie / Kampong Thom Depart for Kampong Thom passing through lush grasslands. Climb up Phnom Santuk Mountain offers spectacular vistas of the surrounding countryside and houses a small pagoda at the top. After soaking in the view, descend the steps and continue by road to Kampong Thom. This afternoon, will be spent at your leisure.

Day 6 : K.Thom / Siem Reap Visit Sambor Prei Kuk, a jungle-enclosed temple complex that receives very few tourists due to its remote location. Continue towards Siem Reap. On arrival, check in to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure

Day 7 : Siem Reap VisitIt Angkor Wat, a massive three-tiered pyramid crowned by five beehive-like towers rising 65 metres from ground level. Visit Ta Prohm temple, built in the mid 12th to early 13th centuries. Enjoy a rural sunset over the paddy fields and the beautiful countryside from the pyramidal Pre Rup temple.

Day 8 : Siem Reap Visit Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire under the reign of Jayavarman VII. This afternoon, you will continue on to the biggest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, Tonlé Sap, where you will have the opportunity to learn about life on the river.

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Indochina

TTB-TOUR.COM | 29

SAPA

HALONG BAY

LUANG PRABANG

TONLE SAP

VIENTIANE

4000 ISLANDS

HUE

HOI AN

SIEM REAP

HANOI

HO CHI MINH CITY

PHNOM PENH

MEKONG DELTA

30| SMALL GROUP TOUR

If you would like to experience Indochina’s three most remarkable countries but only have a limited amount of time, this tour is perfect for you. People often say one can’t skip Halong Bay when travelling to Vietnam, they can’t either ignore Luang Prabang when discovering Laos or marveling at Angkor temples when exploring Cambodia. Then, this programme has all of that. The itinerary enables you to travel through this emerging area for an authentic asian experience. You’ll welcome the comfort and convenience of flights between major cities, allowing you extra time to delve deeper into each fascinating destination.

KEY FACTS

INDOCHINA IN A NUTSHELL 12 days / 11 nights

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Day 5 : Luang Prabang Visit the National Museum, the former Royal Palace housing a collection of valuables numerous gifts from foreign dignitaries. Continue with a short walking tour around the ancient town to sample some of Luang Prabang’s most exquisite temples. Late afternoon, visit Phousi Hill that provides a superb panoramic view of the whole town

Day 6 : L.Prabang / Pak Ou Wake before the dawn and bear witness to an ancient morning ritual - the alms offering to the Buddhist monks. Then visit Wat Xiengthong, the 16th century temple said to be the most beautiful temple in town. We cruise the Mekong River by long-tailed boat to visit the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. Return to Luang Prabang by boat; continue by car to visit Ban Xangkhong, a village well known for its wood paper making and Laotian silk weavings with natural dyes. Transfer back to town in the late afternoon

Day 7 : L.Prabang / Siem Reap This morning enjoy some free time in Luang Prabang before your flight to Siem Reap in early afternoon. Up on arrival, transfer to hotel. Welcome dinner with Apsara Dance show at local restaurant

Day 8 : Siem Reap Catch sunrise over Angkor Wat temple. After breakfast, return to visit the intricately carved Khmer ruins at Angkor – one of the world’s most impressive heritage sites. In the afternoon, visit the floating village of Chong Khneas, located 10 kilometers south of Siem Reap. Visit the village and take an excursion in a traditional wooden boat on the Tonle Sap Lake, the "Great Lake" of Cambodia, one of the wonders of Asia.

Day 9 : Siem Reap Take an elephant ride from the Southgate

Day 1 : Hanoi arrival Upon arrival, transfer to hotel. We start the afternoon tour with a cyclo ride in the Old Quarter. Then we visit the infamous ‘Hanoi Hilton’ – Hanoi’s former central prison made famous first for the incarceration of the leaders of Vietnam’s National Liberation movement and later US Air force pilots shot down over North Vietnam

Day 2 : Hanoi Visit the Ho Chi Minh complex comprising his Mausoleum and the impressive house on stilts, Ho’s former residence. After lunch, we visit Temple Litterature, the country’s most renowned temple complex. The afternoon is at your leisure. This evening you will have the opportunity to enjoy a performance of Hanoi’s famed water puppets show

Day 3 : Hanoi / Halong Travel to Halong Bay through the impressive countryside of the North. Arrive at the pier; board your luxury junk. Cruise through the magical bay, where thousands of sculpted limestone islands rise from the water. Visit a floating fishing village and meet third-generation fishermen to learn about their traditional way of life at sea.

Day 4 : Halong / Luang Prabang Continue cruising through the Bay with its limestone formations and small islands. Drop off at the pier at around mid-day and transfer to Hanoi airport for a flight to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival transfer to hotel for check-in

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of Angkor Thom to Bayon and explore the mysterious Royal city of Angkor Thom. Continue the visit to the striking Ta Prohm. The temple was once reclaimed by the jungle and disappeared from sight until a French explorer uncovered the ruins. After lunch, we visit Banteay Srei. The special charm of this temple lies in its compact size, remarkable state of preservation, and the excellence of it decorative carving

Day 10 : Siem Reap/ HCM city The morning is at your leisure until the transfer to airport. We take a 1h20mn flight to Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoon. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel. The evening is at your leisure.

Day 11 : HCM city Start the city tour as you take in the main historic points of interest. Visits include the Notre Dame Cathedral, built between 1877 and 1883. Next to the cathedral stands the Central Post Office, finished in 1891. Continue to the Reunification Palace, the former residence of the President of South Viet Nam until April 30, 1975. We end the architectural highlights with a stroll through the bustling Ben Thanh Market. In the afternoon, we visit Cu Chi Tunnels,which played a vital part in the U.S.-Viet Nam War

Day 12 : HCM city departure After breakfast, transfer to airport for onward flight

PROGRAMME

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Picturesque villages, jungle temples and the serene landscapes of Halong Bay, these are the magnificent backdrops against which this breathtaking odyssey takes place. Journeying from Luang Prabang in Laos , to the matchless Khmer temples of Angkor, you cross lands steeped in centuries of tradition and history, taking in UNESCO sites and iconic cultural landmarks as you negotiate the cultural diversity and exquisite natural beauty of Indochina.

INDOCHINA ODYSSEY 19 days / 18 nights

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Day 13 : HCM /Mekong Delta Visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a sprawling underground network of tunnels and living quarters used by the Viet Cong during the war. Then we drive to the capital of Phnom Penh.

Day 14 : HCM /Cu Chi/P.Penh Visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a sprawling underground network of tunnels and living quarters used by the Viet Cong during the war. Then we drive to the Cambodian border (and continue on to the capital of Phnom Penh.

Day 15 : Phnom Penh Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts, that houses the world’s finest collection of Khmer sculpture. We continue with the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, famed for its lavish decorations. Later visit Toul Sleng, a school that was gruesomely transformed into a torture chamber under the Khmer Rouge.

Day 16 : P.Penh/Siem Reap Morning flight to Siem Reap. Set out for an afternoon visit to beautiful Tonle Sap, the second largest freshwater lake in the world.

Day 17 : Siem Reap Visit the last capital of the Angkorian Empire – Angkor Thom. Continue with visit to the atmospheric Ta Prohm. Later, head out to Banteay Srei temple, considered by many to be the art gallery of Angkor

Day 18 : Siem Reap Visit Angkor Wat, the largest religious building in the world that contains thousands of wall carvings and extensive bas-reliefs. The afternoon is at your leisure.

Day 19 : Siem Reap departure After breakfast, you have free time before the transfer to airport for onward flight

PROGRAMME

Day 1 : Vientiane arrival On arrival, transfer to hotel. This afternoon, visit main sights including Wat Si Saket - the oldest Buddhist monastery temple in the country, the former royal temple of Pha That Luang.

Day 2 : Vientiane / L.Prabang Flight to Luang Prabang. Visit some of Luang Prabang’s most exquisite temples. Later, climb Phou Si Hill that offers some spectacular views out across the city and the surrounding countryside.

Day 3 : L.Prabang / Pak Ou Visit Wat Xieng Thong, one of the most impressive in the city. Then take a journey along Mekong river, to the caves of Pak Ou which house hundreds of Buddha statues amongst their limestone caverns. Returning to the city later, stop en route at a local H’mong village.

Day 4 : L.Prabang / Khuang Si Visit the former Royal Palace, now the National Museum. Then travel to Khuang Si Falls, one of the many beautiful waterfalls near Luang Prabang.

Day 5 : L.Prabang/Hanoi Morning is at leisure before the afternoon flight to Hanoi. Transfer to airport for the 1h20mn flight to Hanoi, then transfer to hotel.

Day 6 : Hanoi Visit the 11th century Temple of Literature and the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, as well as the Ho Chi Minh Museum. The rest of the day is free to explore at your leisure. This evening enjoy an included evening water puppet performance.

Day 7 : Hanoi / Halong Transfer to Halong Bay to board a traditional wooden junk for an overnight cruise. Enjoy a trip through the spectacular rocky scenery, with lunch served on board. The overnight cruise provides views of

stunning mountain scenery and floating villages as well as opportunities to explore the natural wonders of the bay.

Day 8 : Halong / Hoi An Continue to sail around Halong Bay. Disembark and return by road to Hanoi. Transfer to the airport for the early evening flight to Danang. On arrival continue by road to the picturesque port of Hoi An.

Day 9 : Hoi An Visit ancient town of Hoi An. We will also stop at the home of a craftsman in the old quarter for a silk lantern making workshop. The afternoon is free to relax on the beach or spend further time exploring the old town.

Day 10 : Hoi An / Hue Visit the fascinating Cham Museum displaying a diverse collection of Champa sculptures dating from the 7th to 15th century. In the afternoon, visit the Imperial Purple Palace, an exact copy of the Forbidden City in Beijing.

Day 10 : Hoi An / Hue Visit the fascinating Cham Museum displaying a diverse collection of Champa sculptures dating from the 7th to 15th century. In the afternoon, visit the Imperial Purple Palace

Day 11 : Hue / HCM city Start a cruise in a long boat along the gentle Perfume River. Then visit one of the magnificent Royal Mausoleums that surround Hue. In the afternoon, fly to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 12 : HCM city Start the morning with a half-day tour of the city. Take a tour of the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum. The afternoon is at your leisure.

34| SMALL GROUP TOUR

A journey incorporating the highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia, this trip offers a good understanding of both countries in a short time. This incredible area will be brought to life through the interactions you have with its people. Enter Vietnam to travel the length of the country from the grandeur of Hanoi in the north to bustling Saigon in the south. Then spend the last step exploring the architectural wonder that is Angkor Wat

VIETNAM&CAMBODIA ENCOMPASSED 10 days / 9 nights

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1

Day 8 : HCM / Siem Reap Fly to Siem Reap. Transfer to your hotel for a lecture on the Angkor complex by a noted authority on Khmer history and culture. Take your newly acquired knowledge with you as you set off to explore the complex. Start with a visit to the Bayon Temple, with its 172 large-scale faces bearing beguiling smiles. Then visit the Elephant and Leper King Terraces. All are examples of masterful Khmer engineering and artistry.

Day 9 : Siem Reap Watch the sunrise over the main temple of Angkor Wat, an unforgettable and quintessential Southeast Asia experience. Then walk amid the moss-peppered pathways, gazing up at the intricately carved tower tops, or climb the steep, narrow temple steps that lead to wide courtyards. After lunch, visit Tonle Sap Lake to observe local life as it unfolds along the floating villages that dot the shoreline.

Day 10 : Siem Reap departure After breakfast, enjoy free time before transfer to airport for your onward flight

PROGRAMME

Day 1 : Hanoi arrival Upon arrival, transfer to hotel. We start the afternoon tour with a cyclo ride in the Old Quarter. Then we visit the infamous ‘Hanoi Hilton’ – Hanoi’s former central prison made famous first for the incarceration of US Air force pilots shot down over North Vietnam

Day 2 : Hanoi Visit to Ho Chi Minh’s house, a simple structure located among banyan, frangipani and milkweed trees. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature which has been known as the first university of the country. The tour ends with the visit to Ngoc Son temple and Hoan Kiem lake. This evening, enjoy the traditional water puppetry show

Day 3 : Hanoi / Halong Bay Travel overland through the verdant Vietnamese countryside to Ha Long Bay, seeing a traditional way of life en route. Board your traditional wooden junk, your accommodation for the night. Sail through this magical bay, where thousands of sculpted limestone islands rise from the waters. After lunch on the boat, disembark and trek to a nearby summit for a panoramic view of the sail-dotted bay or swim by a secluded beach, or simply choose to stay on deck and sunbathe. Then visit a fishing village and meet third-generation fishermen before returning to the boat.

Day 4 : Halong Bay / Hanoi / Hoian Keep cruising around the bay for further discovering of the fantastic natural beauty. Brunch is served before disembarking the cruise ship. Drive back to Hanoi then transfer back to the airport for short flight to Dananng. Upon arrival, transfer to ancient town of Hoian .

Day 5 : Hoi An Visit the lovely traditional town of Hoi An, which retains architectural styles of the many nations that used its port. Afterward, visit a lantern artisan to learn how to make one of the silk lanterns for which Hoi An is known. The afternoon is at your leisure.

Day 6 : Hoi An / HCM city Morning flight to HCM City. This afternoon, visit the 19th-century Thien Hau Pagoda, which serves as a site for prayers to Buddha as well as to the Chinese deity Thien Hau Thanh Mau. Explore the surrounding neighborhood of Cholon, the city’s Chinatown.

Day 7 : HCM city / Cu Chi Explore the expansive Cu Chi Tunnel network, a key Vietcong resource during the Vietnam War.. In the afternoon, see the city’s colonial legacy, including the Central Post Office, the Cathedral of Notre Dame and the Opera House.

36| SMALL GROUP TOUR

This exciting river and overland adventure will take you through the heart of Indochina: from Vietnam’s bustling Saigon and picturesque and evocative Mekong Delta region, we’ll travel up the Mekong River itself to the fascinating Cambodian capital Phnom Penh, before heading overland through picturesque Cambodian scenery to the mysterious and dramatic, jungle-clad temples of Angkor

MEKONG JOURNEY 10 days / 9 nights

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Day 1 : HCM arrival Morning arrival in Saigon, transfer to hotel. We begin the afternoon with a half-day tour in Old Saigon. Visit the Reunification Palace that was the former residence of the President of South Vietnam until April 30, 1975. Then we visit the war remnant museum, formerly known as the museum of American War Crimes. We also visit some of the best samples of French colonial architecture including : Notre Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office.

Day 2 : HCM / Cu Chi / Cao Dai Departure from Saigon for a visit to the fascinating tunnel system at Cu Chi. We then visit The Great Temple of Caodaism. at which you will see a prayer session at noon with beautiful music prayer with Vietnamese folk instrument

Day 3 : HCM / Cai Be / Can Tho Boarding our boat, we cruise amongst the local sampans selling their fruit and vegetables at the Cai Be floating market. The cruise continues along the river, past beautiful landscapes with scenes of typical Mekong Delta rural life. As the boat resumes its course, we pass the beautiful church of Cai Be before stopping at some home factories where you can sample local sweets and see how they are made.

Day 8 : Siem Reap Visit Angkor Wat, the largest religious building in the world that contains thousands of wall carvings and extensive bas-reliefs. Visit the atmospheric Ta Prohm swallowed by the jungle. Later, we head out to Banteay Srei temple, considered by many to be the art gallery of Angkor with some of the finest stone carvings in the world.

Day 9 : Siem Reap / Tonle Sap This morning we visit the Roluos group of temples, the earliest large and permanent temples built by the Khmers. Later visit the floating village of Kompong Pluk. Houses built on soaring stilts hover over the Tonle Sap Lake whilst nearby, the petrified trees of a flooded forest are revealed whenever the water level drops. Afternoon and evening at leisure.

Day 10 : Siem Reap departure Enjoy free time until the transfer to airport for your onward flight.

PROGRAMME

Day 4 : Can Tho / Chau Doc Early morning boat ride to check out the nearby morning market; one of the busiest and most photogenic of the Delta’s floating markets, before heading west to the small riverside town of Chau Doc near the Cambodian border.

Day 5 : Chau Doc / Phnom Penh Morning departure by boat for Phnom Penh. Time to stretch your legs with an introductory walking tour of Phnom Penh starting at the National Museum of Fine Arts, a graceful terracotta building of traditional design housing the world’s finest collection of Khmer sculpture. We continue with the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, famed for its lavish decorations.

Day 6 : Phnom Penh We visit Toul Sleng, a school that was gruesomely transformed into a torture chamber under the Khmer Rouge, and visit the Killing Fields where over 10,000 people were executed. The afternoon is at your leisure.

Day 7 : P.Penh / Siem Reap Flight to Siem Reap. After time to freshen up we visit the last capital of the Angkorian Empire – Angkor Thom. This monumental fortified city is encircled by a 100m wide moat and is famed for the huge statue heads that glare down from every angle.

38| SMALL GROUP TOUR

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