Angkor Wat and Treasures of Southeast Asia

Day 1 | Arrive in Hanoi, Vietnam – Gateway to Northern Vietnam

Begin your Southeast Asia journey in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, a vibrant city where ancient history and modern energy blend seamlessly. Located in northern Vietnam, Hanoi is renowned for its centuries-old architecture, rich cultural heritage, and dynamic street life. Wander through the atmospheric Old Quarter, where narrow streets reveal traces of Chinese and French colonial influence. Today, these historic lanes buzz with motorbikes, colorful market stalls, and local vendors serving fragrant bowls of authentic Vietnamese pho. Farmers arrive daily with fresh, home-grown produce, adding to the city’s lively, sensory appeal.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Day 2 | Hanoi – Exploring the Historic Old Quarter

Discover the cultural and historical highlights of Hanoi, Vietnam, as you explore the city’s most significant landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods. Begin with a visit to Ho Chi Minh’s House, the former residence of Vietnam’s revolutionary leader, located within the Presidential Palace complex. Gain insight into the life and legacy of Ho Chi Minh, one of the most influential figures in modern Vietnamese history. After lunch, tour the infamous Hoa Lo Prison, widely known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” a powerful Vietnam War–era site that offers a deeper understanding of the country’s complex past. Continue your Hanoi city tour with a traditional cyclo ride through the bustling Old Quarter, where narrow streets, col… In the evening, gather with fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating the flavors of northern Vietnam cuisine.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 | Ha Long Bay – Cruising Among the Limestone Karsts

Journey from Hanoi to the breathtaking shores of the Gulf of Tonkin for an unforgettable cruise through Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, two of northern Vietnam’s most spectacular natural wonders. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is famous for its emerald waters and dramatic limestone karst formations. Board your luxury cruise and set sail among thousands of picturesque islets scattered across the bay. Relax on deck as your ship glides gracefully past towering karst outcrops that rise steeply from the sea, creating one of the most iconic landscapes in Southeast Asia.

Lyra Grandeur

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 | Ha Long Bay & Ho Chi Minh City – Sunrise Tai Chi & Southern Vietnam

Begin your morning in spectacular fashion with sunrise tai chi on deck as your cruise drifts peacefully through the limestone pinnacles of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Vietnam. Practicing tai chi against a backdrop of emerald waters and dramatic karst formations offers a serene and unforgettable start to the day. Continue cruising through the tranquil seascape before returning to port. After disembarkation, transfer to the airport in Hai Phong for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam’s dynamic southern metropolis.

The Reverie Saigon

Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5 | Ho Chi Minh City – Vibrant, Evocative Saigon

Experience the dynamic energy of Ho Chi Minh City, still affectionately known as Saigon, Vietnam’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. Located in the heart of southern Vietnam, this high-energy metropolis blends colonial architecture, sacred temples, and one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting street food scenes. Rise early for an exclusive cyclo ride through the awakening streets of Ho Chi Minh City, witnessing daily local life as markets open and the scent of incense drifts from neighborhood pagodas. Stop to savor an authentic bowl of pho at a beloved local restaurant — an essential experience for travelers seeking the best Vietnamese cuisine. At lunch, take part in a chef-led Vietnamese cooking experience, learning how to prepare banh xeo, the country’s iconic savory pancake filled with fresh herbs and regional flavors. In the afternoon, explore key historical and cultural landmarks, including the grand Reunification Palace, a powerful symbol of modern Vietnamese history. Conclude your day with a visit to a vibrant Cao Dai Temple, discovering the unique spiritual traditions of Cao Dai — one of Vietnam’s indigenous religions.

The Reverie Saigon

Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6 | Ho Chi Minh City – Design Your Day Experience

Personalize your Vietnam travel experience with a flexible Design Your Day in Ho Chi Minh City, combining powerful history with immersive cultural exploration. Visit the War Remnants Museum & Historic District Discover compelling war photography and powerful exhibits at the War Remnants Museum, one of Vietnam’s most visited cultural institutions. Continue with a guided walk through a historic Saigon neighborhood, where colonial-era architecture and local markets reveal layers of the city’s past. • Explore Ho Chi Minh City’s Bustling Culinary Scene Dive into southern Vietnam’s vibrant food culture on a guided street food tour. Sample authentic Vietnamese dishes prepared by local street vendors, from fresh spring rolls to sizzling banh xeo, while discovering why Ho Chi Minh City is considered a culinary capital of Southeast Asia. • Cycle the Countryside Near Cu Chi Escape the urban buzz and cycle through the peaceful countryside surrounding the Cu Chi Tunnels. Pedal past rice paddies, small farms, and traditional villages, observing daily rural life and connecting with local communities in southern Vietnam.

The Reverie Saigon

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 | Siem Reap, Cambodia – Gateway to Angkor Wat

Travel from Vietnam to Siem Reap, Cambodia’s vibrant cultural hub and the gateway to the legendary temples of Angkor. Known for its lively arts scene, bustling markets, and dynamic dining culture, Siem Reap blends contemporary energy with ancient Khmer heritage. As the launching point for exploring Angkor Wat and the wider Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap is one of Southeast Asia’s most sought-after travel destinations. Prepare for the awe-inspiring temple experiences that await in the days ahead. In the evening, discover Cambodia’s emerging culinary scene on a progressive dinner through Siem Reap. Sample expertly crafted Khmer dishes across select venues, tasting regional specialties while exploring the city’s stylish neighborhoods and vibrant nightlife.

Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8 | Siem Reap – Hidden Temples and Angkor Treasures

Explore the extraordinary wonders of the Angkor Archaeological Park on a guided temple tour from Siem Reap, uncovering some of Cambodia’s most iconic and atmospheric ancient sites. Begin at Ta Prohm, famously entwined with towering jungle trees whose massive roots cascade over stone walls and temple roofs. Left partially reclaimed by nature, Ta Prohm offers one of the most photogenic and evocative experiences in Angkor. At its center stands Bayon, renowned for its mesmerizing carved stone faces that smile enigmatically from towering spires. The intricate bas-reliefs and serene expressions make Bayon one of the most distinctive temples in Southeast Asia. Conclude your day with a peaceful gondola-style cruise along the moat of Angkor Thom, enjoying a tranquil perspective of the temple complex as the late afternoon light reflects off the ancient walls.

Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor

Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9 | Siem Reap – Sunrise Over Angkor Wat

Begin your day before dawn with one of the most iconic experiences in Southeast Asia: sunrise at Angkor Wat. As the first light of day illuminates the temple’s soaring towers and reflects across its lotus-shaped silhouette, witness the breathtaking beauty and spiritual serenity that make Angkor Wat a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the crown jewel of Cambodia travel. After lunch in Siem Reap, transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Luang Prabang, Laos’ enchanting UNESCO-listed town known for its golden temples, French colonial charm, and serene Mekong River setting.

La Résidence Phou Vao, Luang Prabang

Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10 | Luang Prabang, Laos – Living Temples & Mekong Sunset

Discover the timeless charm of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in northern Laos. Surrounded by mist-covered mountains and the Mekong River, Luang Prabang offers one of the most authentic cultural experiences in Southeast Asia travel. Begin your exploration at the Royal Palace Museum, once home to Laos’ royal family. Admire its blend of traditional Lao and French colonial architecture while gaining insight into the country’s regal and spiritual heritage. Continue through quiet back lanes to the beautifully preserved Heuan Chan Heritage House, a traditional Lao residence that offers a glimpse into 19th-century aristocratic life. Next, visit the enchanting Wat Xieng Thong, one of Laos’ most important and ornate Buddhist temples. Conclude your day with a serene sunset cruise along the Mekong River, where golden light reflects across calm waters and temple silhouettes.

La Résidence Phou Vao, Luang Prabang

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11 | Luang Prabang – Giving and Receiving

Experience the spiritual traditions of Luang Prabang with an early-morning almsgiving ceremony, one of Laos’ most sacred Buddhist rituals. Offer alms to saffron-robed monks at dawn, connecting with the local community and gaining meaningful insight into daily religious life. Later, visit a local family home to participate in a traditional baci ceremony, a Lao blessing ritual that symbolizes harmony, protection, and good fortune. This intimate cultural exchange offers a deeper understanding of Laos’ living heritage. After these enriching experiences, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bangkok, continuing your Southeast Asia journey.

Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River

Breakfast

Day 12 | Bangkok, Thailand – Along the Chao Phraya River

Discover the vibrant energy of Bangkok, Thailand’s dynamic capital set along the iconic Chao Phraya River. Explore the magnificent Grand Palace, former seat of the Siamese court and home to the revered Emerald Buddha. Continue by traditional tuk-tuk to Wat Pho, where you’ll encounter the impressive Reclining Buddha and one of Bangkok’s oldest temple complexes. This evening, gather for a memorable farewell dinner, celebrating your unforgettable journey through Southeast Asia’s most iconic cultural destinations.

Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 13 | Depart Bangkok

After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.