Grand Horizons Vietnam & Thailand - 14 Days

Welcome to Vietnam! Upon your arrival in Hanoi, a private driver will greet you at the airport, holding a sign with your name for easy recognition. You'll be escorted to your accommodation, conveniently located in the vibrant heart of the city, just steps away from the captivating Old Quarter.

Here, you have the freedom to wander and discover the city's charms at your leisure, or simply unwind at your hotel after your journey.

Meet our friendly guide and set off to explore Hanoi, one of the world's oldest capitals, nestled on the banks of the Red River. Arrive at Tran Quoc Pagoda, situated on Golden Fish Island in West Lake. This is Hanoi’s oldest pagoda, dating back to the 6th century.

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex to view the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh. You can also stroll through the gardens to see the two houses where he lived and worked from 1954 to 1969, and visit the unique One Pillar Pagoda, dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy. Please dress modestly, covering shoulders to knees, when visiting the mausoleum, temples, and pagodas.

Please note: The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays, and for maintenance from 15th June to 15th August. During this period, visitors can still photograph the mausoleum and explore the surrounding area.

Explore the Vietnam Ethnology Museum to learn about the diverse cultures of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. On Mondays, we will visit the Women's Museum instead, as the Ethnology Museum is closed.

Enjoy a Vietnamese lunch at our restaurant, featuring eight delicious dishes. Then visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, founded in the 11th century.

Proceed to Hoa Lo Prison Museum. Initially used by French colonists for political prisoners, it was later known as the "Hanoi Hilton" by American POWs during the Vietnam War.

Our friendly guide will collect you from your accommodation in Hanoi's Old Quarter or the Opera House. Departure times vary based on your location. We will pause for a short 15 to 20-minute break to relax.

Explore Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010. Here, delve into Vietnam's feudal history under the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties. Afterwards, we will cycle around the village, offering a chance to see local life up close. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Embark on a 1.5-hour bamboo boat journey in Tam Coc. Prepare to be captivated by the scenic beauty of rice fields, rivers, and impressive cave systems, often referred to as "Ha Long Bay on land."

We will board the bus for our return to Hanoi. Arrive back in Hanoi between approximately 17:30-18:00.

In the morning, we will check out from the hotel and be collected by the Cruise Team. We'll embark on a scenic journey to Halong Bay, passing through the lush landscape of the Red River Delta, renowned for its expansive emerald rice paddies.

Upon arrival at Halong, we will enjoy a cruise on the bay, allowing us to explore its stunning limestone formations and karst grottoes.

Following our exploration, we'll savour a delicious seafood lunch before visiting a renowned limestone cave in Halong Bay. Here, you will have the opportunity to spend some time kayaking or swimming, subject to the specific cruise itinerary.

As evening approaches, we will return to the boat for an early dinner, after which you'll have leisure time. You can choose to participate in onboard activities or simply unwind.

Start your day early by witnessing the sunrise over this natural wonder, followed by breakfast in the dining room. Participate in a Tai Chi class on the sun deck - an excellent way to rejuvenate both mind and body. After checking out, enjoy brunch as the cruise returns to the harbour.

Next, we will transfer you back to Hanoi. After a brief rest, you will be taken to the airport for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival in Da Nang, you will be transferred to your hotel in Hoi An where you will spend the night.

We will collect you from your Danang hotel for your journey to Cam Thanh Coconut Village. Here, skilled craftsmen will demonstrate the art of lantern making. You’ll have the chance to craft your own colourful lantern - an ideal keepsake.

Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of Cam Thanh Village. We’ll take a relaxing boat trip through the village's lush coconut forest. You can participate in traditional fishing activities and learn the techniques of both round-net and cast-net fishing from local experts.

Experience paddling a traditional Vietnamese bamboo basket boat and watch an impressive basket boat performance. You may also try your hand at crab catching and net dropping.

Back ashore, you’ll have the option to join a cooking show featuring a fire performance by a master chef, if available. Afterwards, enjoy a meal of seven local dishes at a nearby restaurant, accompanied by mineral water.

For those opting for an afternoon adventure, the itinerary offers the same vibrant experiences starting at this time. We will transfer you back to your hotel in Hoi An.

Spend a free day exploring the enchanting town of Hoi An at your leisure. We suggest renting a bicycle from the hotel to navigate the town's scenic routes, either towards the riverside or the inviting beaches. At the beach, unwind with a swim in the warm, calm sea before enjoying a fresh fruit drink at one of the many quaint cafes.

Consider visiting one of Hoi An's renowned tailor shops, famous for creating bespoke clothing, bags, and shoes with remarkable speed - often ready by the next day.

As evening falls, take a stroll through the Old Town. Renowned for its beautifully illuminated lanterns, the area exudes a fairy-tale charm that is not to be missed. Be sure to enjoy the vibrant street performances that bring the town to life each night.

Enjoy your final moments in Hoi An before we arrange a private transfer to the airport for your flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival in Bangkok, your driver will be waiting to take you to your accommodation. The remainder of the day is yours to spend at leisure.

We'll begin our exploration of Bangkok, Thailand's vibrant capital, with a convenient pick-up from your hotel. Founded in 1782 by King Phra Phutthayotfa Chulalok, Bangkok is renowned for both its cultural heritage and bustling modernity. Our tour highlights three significant temples and notable sights that define this unique city.

Our first stop is Wat Traimit, famed for the Golden Buddha statue created during the Sukhothai period. This magnificent statue, made of solid gold, stands three metres tall and weighs five and a half tonnes.

Next, we'll visit Wat Pho, one of Bangkok's oldest and largest temples. Established by King Rama I approximately 200 years ago, it houses the impressive Reclining Buddha, which stretches 49 metres in length and stands 12 metres high. The soles of this iconic statue are inlaid with intricate mother-of-pearl designs.

As we journey through the city, we'll pass key landmarks such as Sanam Luang (The Royal Field), the Democracy Monument, and the grand Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, along with the stately surroundings of Ratchadamnoen Avenue and the Parliament House.

Our final temple visit will be to Wat Benchamabophit, also known as the Marble Temple, renowned for its elegant Italian marble architecture from the reign of King Rama V.

You will stay overnight in Bangkok, allowing for a deeper dive into the city's fascinating blend of tradition and contemporary life at your leisure.

We begin the day by collecting you from your hotel in Bangkok, heading southwest to Ratchaburi province. A renowned attraction, Damnoen Saduak is regarded as a quintessential Thai experience.

En route, we visit a sugar palm factory to observe the traditional process of converting palm trees into sugar. On arrival at the pier, you'll embark on a journey by long-tail boat through the canals, offering a glimpse into the lives of locals residing along the waterways.

Upon reaching the market, witness the vibrant scene of locals trading a variety of goods - from fruits and vegetables to flowers - all from their boats while shoppers browse from the riverbanks. You have the opportunity to taste fresh coconut juice, sample other local delicacies, or purchase souvenirs for friends and family.

Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel, followed by a leisurely morning to unwind or explore at your own pace. After checking out, we’ll embark on a comfortable transfer with our private driver to Pattaya, a bustling beachside city approximately two hours away.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish - relax on the beach, stroll along the vibrant waterfront, or explore the city's lively markets.

We begin the day by collecting you from your Pattaya hotel in a comfortable minivan. Upon arrival at the sanctuary, we'll introduce you to our important work with rescued elephants. You'll start by preparing fruit and vegetables to feed these gentle giants.

Next, you'll meet the elephants and feed them, allowing you to form a personal connection. We will then accompany the elephants on a walk through nature, offering a unique opportunity to observe their behaviour in a natural setting. Watch as they forage on native plants and interact with their surroundings.

You’ll also witness the elephants cooling off in their specially-designed pool and enjoying a mud bath, a delightful aspect of their natural habits.

At lunchtime, enjoy a freshly prepared vegetarian buffet, offering a taste of local flavours. Afterwards, take some time to relax and soak in the peaceful ambience of the sanctuary. We'll then transfer you back to your hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, your day in Pattaya is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Whether you choose to unwind by the beach or explore the city, Pattaya has something for everyone. You might visit nearby islands such as Coral Island (Koh Larn), explore hidden temples, or immerse yourself in the vibrant street markets.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, consider indulging in a traditional Thai massage or sipping a drink at a beachfront cafe. Pattaya is rich in options, from local street food to bustling shopping scenes.

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a leisurely morning of free time. Later, your private driver will collect you for the return journey to Bangkok. You will be taken directly to Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) for your departure flight. We trust your journey through Thailand has been memorable, and we wish you a safe and pleasant journey home.