14-Nights Best of Southeast Asia

Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok, Thailand

Transfer: Bangkok Airportto Bangkok - Riverside

Hotel: Riva Surya Bangkok (4 Star Rating)

Situated along the enchanting Chao Phraya River, Riva Surya Bangkok offers an idyllic urban getaway in the heart of this cosmopolitan city. This modern boutique hotel in Bangkok features 68 beautifully designed rooms, elegant dining options, a riverside swimming pool and leisure facilities that cater to the needs of both business and leisure travellers.

Day 2: Temples, Traditions & Bangkok by Night

You will be picked up at 08:00. Go behind the scenes for a closer look at Buddhist culture. Start the morning with a trip to Wat Pho, arguably Bangkok’s most enchanting temple. Arrive just as the resident monks gather for their morning chants. Witness this deeply spiritual ritual and gain a better sense of Thailand’s Buddhist heritage.

After the chants, take a walk around Wat Pho and see the vast collection of religious treasures on display. Admire the famed reclining Buddha image, which stretches 45-metres in length. Learn about the symbolism of the Buddha’s intricate footprint and witness devotees making offerings to this revered image.

The tour then continues to the nearby Grand Palace, which has served as the seat of Thailand's revered Royal family for more than two centuries. Take a walk around the vast grounds, stopping in to explore the various temples, throne halls and museums within the compound. Visit the Emerald Buddha, the most revered Buddhist image in Thailand, and hear about its mysterious origins.

Following the tour of these iconic Bangkok monuments, return to the hotel.Bangkok is a city that truly comes to life after dark. Spend an evening exploring the vibrant streets and tranquil temples with a local guide, getting a different perspective of the capital.

You'll be met in the lobby of your hotel by your guide and will start the evening with a BTS Skytrain or tuk-tuk ride to the central pier. From here, continue onwards by longtail boat sailing up the Chao Phraya River to Wat Arun. See all the buildings and temples lit up and see passing river cruises with lots of lights. Disembark at Wat Arun pier, spending time there before crossing the ferry to a local pier. Walk through the market down to Riva Arun Hotel to enjoy a refreshing cocktail. Enjoy dinner at a great local restaurant on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. With the majestic Wat Arun glittering in the distance, you'll enjoy a delicious traditional Thai meal. Following dinner, take a stroll to the temple grounds of Wat Pho to soak up the beauty of its glittering chedi at night.

Then hop on a tuk-tuk and traverse through the city's historic quarter for a visit to Pak Klong Talad. One of the country's largest fresh markets, the site is busy 24-hours a day with wholesale vendors and local shoppers. Explore the stalls where orchids, flowers, vegetables and other items spill over the crowded stalls.

This unforgettable evening tour ends with a transfer back to your hotel.

Day 3: Fly to Luang Prabang, Laos

Transfer: Bangkok - Riverside to Bangkok Airport

Transfer: Luang Prabang Airportto Luang Prabang - City Center

Hotel: Avani Luang Prabang Hotel (5 Star Rating)

Avani Luang Prabang Hotel is set in the heart of Luang Prabang's UNESCO-listed old town, surrounded by heritage streets, temples, and leafy courtyards that create a calm city oasis. The hotel features a serene outdoor pool for relaxing after sightseeing and an on-site restaurant serving a mix of local Lao flavors and international cuisine, ideal for guests exploring this historic riverside town.

Day 4: Luang Prabang Highlights: Monks, Market & Temples

Early this morning, meet your local guide and discover one of Luang Prabang's most unforgettable experiences - The 'Tak Bat'. At dawn hundreds of saffron robed monks move silently through the streets to collect alms (offerings of food). Your guide will explain the background behind this daily ritual which is a significant part of Laotian culture and Buddhism, allowing locals and visitors to participate by offering food to the monks as a form of merit-making and spiritual practice. Afterwards, take a stroll with your guide through the colorful, open-air Morning Market. Taste a unique local coffee at Pasaneyom Coffee Shop before transferring back to your hotel for breakfast. It’s an early rise but well worth the wake-up call.Set off with your guide in private transport to explore some of the most treasured monuments of the old city, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin with a visit to the National Museum, formerly the Royal Palace, which houses a fascinating collection of personal belongings from the former Laotian royal family. Continue to Wat Mai, notable for its elegant five-tiered roof that showcases the classic Luang Prabang architectural style.

Next, visit Wat Xieng Thong, often regarded as the most beautiful temple in Luang Prabang and famous for its low-sweeping roofs and the striking "Tree of Life" mosaic. Conclude your exploration at Wat Visoun, the city's oldest functioning temple, dating back to 1513 and home to a collection of antique wooden Buddha images.

Afterwards, return to your hotel.

Day 5: Excursion to the Kuang Si Waterfalls

This morning, meet your local guide and start the drive to Kuang Sii Waterfalls. The drive is approx. 1 hour, winding through incredibly picturesque landscapes of Laos.

Take a short walk to explore the "Bear Rescue Centre," dedicated to preserving the northern Laos' black bear population. Enjoy a traditional Lao picnic near the waterfalls and indulge in a refreshing swim. These stunning falls gracefully descend over numerous calcified levels, creating a mesmerizing series of cool, turquoise pools hundreds of feet below.

Day 6: Fly to Hanoi, Vietnam & Evening Sundowner

Transfer: Luang Prabang - City Center to Luang Prabang Airport

Transfer: Hanoi Airportto Hanoi - The Old Quarter

Hotel: La Siesta Classic Ma May (4 Star Rating)

With its imposing white exterior and warm Asian-inspired interior, La Siesta Classic Ma May is situated in the heart of the Old Quarter, close to Hoan Kiem Lake providing a luxuriously quiet oasis within the busy maze of streets.

The property has 65 bespoke-designed guestrooms and suites, the Moonlight Sky Bar on the rooftop, La Spa and gym on the 3rd level and Red Bean Restaurant on the ground floor.

Transfer from your hotel to the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake area, which transforms early evening into a haven for exercise, romantic walks and people watching, join the locals for a stroll to a nearby rooftop bar, a perfect Old Quarter vantage point to enjoy the sunset and watch the lights of Hanoi come alive with a drink or cocktail & nibbles. Your guide can then point out the 360-degree overview of Hanoi and the surrounding areas before we head back down onto the streets.

The street vibe changes at night and a little electric buzz fills the air as locals come out to eat and vendors try to make their last sales of the day. It can be overwhelming but with your guide to assist in haggling and with local info, this becomes a fun, enchanting environment. The "blue stool" experience is next as you sample the translated local dishes, engage in banter with your stool neighbors and marvel at the passing trade. You will be fascinated by local life and encouraged to ask and discuss any burning questions about real-life in, and the history of, this fascinating country. Followed by a dinner with authentic Vietnamese cuisine in an elegantly cozy ambiance.

Transfer back to your hotel.

Day 7: Hanoi Historic Highlights

Set off today with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a remarkable construction where Vietnamese people express their profound love and gratitude to the great leader (closed Monday & Friday weekly and all afternoons). Then stroll around the serene grounds while learning about Ho Chi Minh's life and legacy. There is an option to visit the nearby iconic One Pillar Pagoda, built-in 1049. Continue to the Temple of Literature, a serene retreat from the busy streets outside. It is known as the first national university in Vietnam and the symbol of Vietnamese architectural values. Cap off the excursion strolling through the labyrinthine alleyways of the Old Quarters. This oldest continuously developed area of Hanoi was once an important centre of commerce where goods were sold on the street name of a particular guild. Stop at a roadside coffee shop, mingle with the locals and enjoy the daily life passing by.

Day 8: Set Sail on Halong Bay

Depart Hanoi this morning for the approx. 2.5 hours drive to Halong. Upon arrival at the jetty, proceed with check-in formalities and around noon be welcomed aboard the Bhaya Classic. Enjoy lunch while cruising the tranquil waters and plenty of time to take in the magnificent seascape of Halong Bay. Depending on your cruise itinerary, you will be able to enjoy activities either this afternoon or the following morning to explore caves and grottos, visit pearl farms, or take in picturesque island beaches.. After sunset, enjoy a Vietnamese cooking demonstration before enjoying a delicious dinner. At the end of the day set anchor for the night among the karst formations.

Hotel: Bhaya Classic Line (5 Star Rating)

Launching its first cruise back in the summer of 2007, Bhaya Classic Cruises is a member of what is now Halong Bay's largest fleet of cruise boats & ships. The 4 Bhaya Classic boats are constructed in a classic, oriental style, while incorporating modern facilities catering to every aspect of passenger comfort.

Each Bhaya Classic boat has between 15 and 20 cabins, the relatively small design creating informal, warm spaces promoting a convivial feel on board. A refurbishment programme carried out in August 2015 has given the boats a fresh new look.

The Bhaya Classic boats are wooden boats constructed in the traditional oriental style long favoured by shipbuilders in this area. The construction material and style of the boats give them a classic feel which sets them apart from most cruise vessels around the world. On board, you will find atmospheric spaces which speak of the heritage design, and the small boat concept encourages a cosy feel which makes a Bhaya Classic cruise a pleasantly social affair. The colour scheme on board is a fusion of the rich browns of hardwood, white, and turquoise blue trim with red highlights. The wooden furniture on board only heightens the sense of timeless elegance which seems a natural extension of Halong Bay itself.

Meal(s): Dinner, Lunch

Day 9: Morning on Halong Bay & Fly to Central Vietnam

Awaken your senses early this morning with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck or simply relax on board and take in the magnificent surroundings. Breakfast is served while you enjoy cruising back through the bay. Disembark and bid farewell to the friendly crew. Arriving back into port mid-morning, you will be met by a driver and transferred back to your hotel in Hanoi. Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch

Transfer: Da Nang Airportto Hoi An - Beach

Hotel: Boutique Hoi An Resort (4 Star Rating)

Explore the rich heritage of Hoi An at Boutique Hoi An Resort and discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine and hospitality. The Boutique Hoi An Resort offers a variety of unique facilities and services. A large swimming pool surrounded by a tropical garden forms the centrepiece of the resort. The Hoi An spa is located next to the pool, and provides a haven for pure relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort is ideally located on Cua Dai Beach, only 5 minutes from Hoi An centre, 35 minutes from the airport and 30 minutes from the town of Da Nang.

Day 10: Hoi An Flavours & Vintage Vespa Adventure

Central Vietnam is a food-lovers paradise and, with an abundance of fresh ingredients, its reputation for one of the world's finest cuisines is well justified. This join-in cooking class provides the opportunity to experience rural life in the Vietnamese countryside whilst gaining an insightful introduction to the unique culinary heritage of the local cuisine.

Your first stop is at the local market in order to select the freshest ingredients for your menu. At the market learn about tropical fruits and vegetables, herbs, and spices, as well as some of the more unusual items that you will see for sale. The scenery around Hoi An is quintessentially Vietnamese and, passing lush rice paddy fields, proceed to the village of Cam Thanh, a traditional fishing village surrounded by tranquil coconut palm-flanked waterways. Exploring the canals by coracle, travelling through coconut palm forests and observing the lifestyle of the fisherman and learning how they fish with rods and nets, using centuries-old methods.

Continue to the cookery studio where an expert chef will guide you through the techniques required to produce a range of mouth-watering traditional dishes. You will learn how to make a variety of dishes which made Vietnamese cuisine become famous. Once finished you can savour the delights of the dishes you have prepared, before returning to your hotel.This Hoi An evening tour is part night excursion, part street food adventure - an immersive way to experience the ancient town after dark, just like the locals do, all from the back of a vintage Vespa. Hop on your Vespa and dive into Hoi An’s vibrant culinary scene. Ride pillion along the riverside and weave through hidden alleyways and lively streets, seeking out beloved local dishes and authentic street food. Food and drinks are included throughout the evening, so bring a healthy appetite.

The evening begins in style with handcrafted cocktails and a tasting of delicious street food to set the tone. As the lights come on across the old town, you will head out on the Vespas to sample a famous Hoi An specialty dish, enjoyed the way locals love it.

From here, zip through bustling roads to a lantern-lit islet, where you will board a small boat for a leisurely cruise along the banks of the ancient town. Back on land, join the locals at a riverside spot for more tempting starters, perfectly paired with refreshing cold beers and views of the river.

The journey continues to the final port of call this evening - a modern local restaurant, a welcome addition to Hoi An vibrant dining scene. Settle in to savor flavorful Vietnamese BBQ dishes. Fit to burst, you will be ridden back to your hotel or resort at the evening.

Day 11: Day at leisure in Hoi An



Day 12: Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia

Transfer: Hoi An - Ancient Town to Da Nang Airport

Transfer: Siem Reap Angkor International Airportto Siem Reap - Old French Quarter

Hotel: Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas (5 Star Rating)

Welcome to Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas. This upscale boutique property, designed by acclaimed architect Bill Bensley, enjoys a tranquil, leafy setting in the French Quarter of Siem Reap. The stylish guest rooms feature modern facilities and inlaid ceiling artwork showcasing images of Angkor, complementing the chic interiors. The hotel offers an incredible selection of culinary delights to satisfy every desire, and the Khmer Tonics Spa and Gym provide a sanctuary of well-being.

Day 13: Angkor Temples & Angkor Wat Sunset

This morning, explore the grandeur of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire. Discover the impressive Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King before visiting the iconic Bayon Temple, renowned for its serene stone faces and intricate bas-reliefs that depict scenes of daily life and ancient battles.

Continue to Ta Prohm, a jungle-clad temple left largely untouched since its rediscovery. Wander through its atmospheric corridors, where massive tree roots weave through the ruins, creating one of Angkor's most striking and photogenic sights. The fusion of nature and architecture offers a glimpse into how the temples once appeared when first found. Then stop for lunch.

In the afternoon, visit Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious monument and a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. Built in the 12th century, it features soaring towers, remarkable symmetry, and extensive carvings that stretch across its galleries. Highlights include the detailed bas-reliefs, which tell stories from Hindu mythology, including the famous Churning of the Sea of Milk. Still an active place of worship, it remains beautifully preserved and stands as a powerful symbol of Cambodia's heritage. Enjoy the sunset at the end of the tour.

Day 14: Artisans, Silk Farm & Evening Dine-Around

Discover the rich artistic heritage of Cambodia on this immersive tour. Begin at the Artisans d'Angkor Craft College, where young artisans are trained in traditional Khmer arts, including stone and wood carving, lacquerware, and ceremonial crafts. Watch skilled craftsmen at work and explore the workshops and boutiques, gaining insight into techniques that have been preserved for generations.

Afterwards, travel to the Puok Silk Farm, set amidst mulberry gardens in the countryside. Here, experience the entire silk-making process, from growing mulberry trees and rearing silkworms to spinning, dyeing, and hand-weaving exquisite silk fabrics. Meet the weavers, learn about age-old Cambodian techniques, and see the high-quality silk products.Khmer cuisine is one of the highlights of any visit to Cambodia, and in recent years, Siem Reap's food scene has flourished with creativity and innovation. Talented local and international chefs showcase their skills across a variety of exciting venues throughout the city.

This evening tour offers a perfect way to experience the very best of Siem Reap in just one night. Begin with a welcome drink at a cocktail bar set in one of the last traditional wooden houses in the Old Market district. Enjoy a starter at a stylish Khmer restaurant led by celebrated chef Seng Sothea, followed by a main course at a beloved home-style Cambodian restaurant. Finish with dessert at one of the city's top fine-dining venues, set in an elegant riverside setting--an unforgettable culinary journey through Siem Reap.

Day 15: Depart from Siem Reap

Transfer: Siem Reap - Old French Quarter to Siem Reap Angkor International Airport