Southeast Asia Experience - 28 Days

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Trip Snapshot

Age range

12 - 100

Start / End

  • Bangkok
  • Siem Reap

Physical rating

3/5

Group size

1 - 16

Meals included

31

Highlights

  • Begin your adventure amidst the bustling vibrancy of Bangkok, navigating its intricate klongs (canals) by traditional longboat and marveling at the golden splendor of Wat Po, before journeying north to Chiang Mai to discover the serene mountain temple of Doi Suthep and the dazzling Wat Rong Khun.
  • Embark on a captivating slow boat journey down the majestic Mekong River, crossing into the tranquil landscapes of Laos. Experience authentic local life with an unforgettable village homestay, savoring traditional Laotian cuisine and witnessing a cultural performance, followed by an exploration of the revered Pak Ou Caves.
  • Immerse yourself in the dynamic energy of Vietnam's capital, Hanoi, where you'll wander the historic Old Quarter, sip lakeside coffee, and be enchanted by a traditional water puppet show. Cruise through the breathtaking emerald waters of Halong Bay on a classic junk boat, exploring mystical caves and savoring fresh seafood.
  • Discover the imperial grandeur of Hue with its magnificent Citadel and Royal Tombs, then continue to the enchanting lantern-lit streets of Hoi An. Here, you'll have ample time to indulge in bespoke tailoring, relax on pristine beaches, and participate in a unique noodle-making demonstration.
  • Delve into the vibrant chaos of Ho Chi Minh City, exploring its bustling markets and significant historical sites. Gain profound insight into Vietnam's past with an essential visit to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate underground network that played a crucial role in wartime.
  • Conclude your odyssey in Cambodia, beginning with a poignant exploration of Phnom Penh's history at the Tuol Sleng Museum and the Killing Fields. Then, prepare to be awestruck by the ancient wonders of Angkor, witnessing a spectacular sunrise over the iconic Angkor Wat and discovering the enigmatic faces of Bayon and the jungle-clad ruins of Ta Prohm.
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What's inside the PDF

  • Day-by-day itinerary
    Every day mapped out, covering activities, travel times, meals and where you'll stay.
  • Packing & kit list
    Exactly what to bring, from clothing and essentials to luggage guidelines and what's available to hire locally.
  • What's included
    Accommodation, transport, guides and meals, so you can see exactly what your price covers.
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Summary

Southeast Asia knows how to keep things exciting — and this 16-day adventure proves it. Kick off with the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, then float through Halong Bay’s limestone karsts on a classic junk boat. Slurp noodles in lantern-lit Hoi An, sip coffee lakeside in Hanoi, and shop Ho Chi Minh City’s bustling markets for treasures you’ll only find here. With your hotels, transport, and key experiences covered, you’ll get the perfect mix of iconic highlights and free time to chase your own discoveries.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Bangkok

    Arrive at any time. Today is arrival day, so there are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting. Relax, explore the city, and adjust to the pace of life in Bangkok.

  • Day 2

    Bangkok/Chiang Mai

    Guided longboat tour of Bangkok’s klongs and Wat Po. Optional Grand Palace and National Museum visits. Overnight train to Chiang Mai. Enjoy a 1-hr longtail boat tour of Bangkok's famous klongs (canals). The trip finishes at the Royal Temple of Wat Po for a guided tour.

    After, there is time for shopping, a visit to Grand Palace or a stroll along Khao San Rd. In the evening, board the overnight train to Chiang Mai.

  • Day 3

    Chiang Mai

    Enjoy a guided tour of Doi Suthep temple. Optional activities include a cooking class or visit to the night market. Arrive early morning and use some free time to explore. Choose from a range of optional activities or stroll the city independently. Experience the flavours and scents of traditional northern Thai cuisine by pre-booking the Northern Thai Cooking Class.

    In late afternoon, set off to visit the temple complex, Doi Suthep. If you're lucky, you may witness the chanting of the monks.

  • Day 4

    Chiang Mai/Chiang Khong

    Head to Chiang Khong via Wat Rong Khun and enjoy the view of the mighty Mekong. Drive to Chiang Khong, a sleepy trading town nestled on the bank of the Mekong River. En route, visit Wat Rong Khun — the dazzling 'White Temple'. Wander the local food market or sit back and enjoy a slower pace of life relaxing in Thailand with river views of Laos.

  • Day 5

    Chiang Khong/Muang Pakbèng

    Cross the border into Laos then travel by traditional boat down the Mekong River. Experience a local homestay in a nearby village.

    Here, enjoy traditional Laotian food while getting to know your host family. Your CEO will provide insight into the way of life of village residents. Cross the border to the Laos immigration area, then take a songthaew (local bus) to a traditional slow boat.

    Travel down the Mekong River and adjust to the relaxed pace of life in Laos. This predominantly mountainous country has unsurpassed views of the riverside villages, the tropical jungle, and the mountains.

  • Day 6

    Muang Pakbèng/Luang Prabang

    Continue down the Mekong for most of the day. Take a guided tour of the Pak Ou caves before arriving in Luang Prabang. Continue on by slow boat down the mighty Mekong. Before arriving at Luang Prabang, enjoy a visit outside to the Pak Ou caves.

    After, re-board the boat and continue to Luang Prabang, arriving in the early evening.

  • Day 7

    Luang Prabang

    Enjoy a guided tour of the Ethnology Museum and Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre before heading to the new Planeterra project Ban Ou community. Relax in the afternoon at the Kuang Si waterfalls. Take a tour of the Ethnology Museum — a great chance to learn more about the dress and customs of local people. Drop into Ock Pop Tok for an introduction to Laos textiles and handicrafts. Then, take a half-day trip out to the stunning Kuang Si waterfalls and be sure to pack a swimsuit.

  • Day 8

    Luang Prabang

    Enjoy a free day exploring all Luang Prabang has to offer. Options include cooking classes, temple visits, massages, night market shopping, and cycling.

  • Day 9

    Luang Prabang/Vang Vieng

    Take a high speed train to Vang Vieng this morning. Enjoy the afternoon free to rest or explore! Ride a high speed train from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng. Enjoy free time.

  • Day 10

    Vang Vieng

    Enjoy free time in Vang Vieng, an ideal location for exploring the countryside by bicycle or kayak. Opt to pre-book the "Vang Vieng Adrenaline Bundle" on the checkout page ahead of time, to include this optional on your tour.

  • Day 11

    Vang Vieng/Vientiane

    Explore the capital of Laos. Opt to visit temples, see the National Museum, or explore highlights of the town. Head out of the mountains to one of Asia's sleepiest capital cities. Opt to visit some of the highlights of Vientiane including Wat Sisaket, one of the city's oldest and most fascinating temples, and Wat Phra That Luang, Lao's national symbol and one of her most sacred sites.

    For those who like to shop, don't miss the morning market, which, incidentally, is open all day!

  • Day 12

    Vientiane/Hanoi

    Fly from Vientiane to Hanoi. Take a short flight from quiet Laos into the bustling capital of Vietnam, Hanoi. Take a leisurely walk through the Old Quarter to get to know the narrow streets of this city.

  • Day 13

    Hanoi

    Visit Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, stilt house, and Presidential Palace. Enjoy an included water puppet show. Opt to visit the Temple of Literature, museums, and Hoa Lo Prison. Visit Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, and the former president's house on stilts for insight into an important figure in Vietnam's history.

    During the afternoon, use some free time to explore this beautiful city. Opt to visit the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, the Museum of Ethnology or just sip delicious Vietnamese iced coffee in a café along the lake. In late afternoon or early evening, attend a performance of Vietnam's famous water puppets before sampling one of Hanoi's amazing eating venues.

    Opt to pre-book the "Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour" activity on the checkout page ahead of time, to include this optional on your tour.

  • Day 14

    Hanoi/Ha Long

    Enjoy a Ha Long Bay cruise on a junk boat with visits to a cave and an island lookout. Savour a seafood lunch and dinner. Drive to Bai Chay harbour, the jumping off point for Ha Long Bay. Thousands of islands with intricate cave systems rise dramatically from the waters. Sail past limestone karst mountains in the junk boat and stop to visit some of the islands and caves.

    In the evening, devour a seafood dinner, then opt to enjoy a drink on deck under the stars.

  • Day 15

    Ha Long/Hu?

    Enjoy breakfast and lunch on board before sailing back to the port and return to Hanoi. Enjoy some time in the city before an overnight train to Hue. Interested in local cuisine? Opt to pre-book the "Hanoi Foodie Culture Tour" activity on the checkout page to include this optional on your tour.

  • Day 16

    Hu?

    Pull into Hue early in the morning and dive right into the city, starting with a guided tour of the Imperial Citadel, Royal Tomb and Tien Mu Pagoda. The rest of the day, you are free to explore the city how you'd like. Arrive early to Hue, once the imperial capital of Vietnam. Start the day with a visit to the Tien Mu Pagoda followed by a visit to the tomb of one of Vietnam’s former emperors. After, opt for a vegetarian lunch at a local nunnery.

    While in the city, try some local Hue specialties such as banh khoai (Hue savoury pancakes), and banh bot loc boc tom thit (thin rice paper filled with meat and shrimp). Wash it all down with a Hue beer.

    Opt to pre-book the "Hue Motorbike Tour" activity on the checkout page ahead of time, to include this optional on your tour.

  • Day 17

    Hu?/Hoi An

    Drive the Hai Van pass. Take advantage of Hoi An's many options over the 2.5 days in town. Opt for a cooking class, riverboat trip, bike ride, beach time, tailor visit or My Son ruins. Cross the Hai Van Pass (weather permitting), with fantastic views in all directions, before arriving to Hoi An in the afternoon.

    With three nights here, there's plenty of time to explore all this charming town has to offer.

  • Day 18

    Hoi An

    Explore all Hoi An has to offer. Dive into the culture, hang out on the beach or get clothes tailor-made in one of the many shops around town. Enjoy a noodle making demonstration and lunch at Oodles of Noodles, a the tour operator-supported project.

  • Day 19

    Hoi An

    Spend a free day exploring all Hoi An has to offer.

  • Day 20

    Hoi An/Ho Chi Minh City

    Fly from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City with free time to explore this hectic and amazing city. Drive to Da Nang for the flight to Ho Chi Minh City, once the capital of South Vietnam and the country’s commercial centre. Start exploring the small alleys and busy streets, keeping an eye out for laquerware shops and delicious local food stalls.

  • Day 21

    Ho Chi Minh City

    Take a guided tour of famous Cu Chi Tunnels in the morning. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy free time. Use free time to visit the Thien Hau and Giac Vien pagodas and stroll through the immense Ben Thanh Market. The Reunification Palace, the city's Chinese quarter of Cholon, and the War Remnants Museum are also well worth a visit.

  • Day 22

    Ho Chi Minh City

    Enjoy a free day in the city of Ho Chi Minh. Spend the day checking off the stops on your must-see-list or take a day trip to the Mekong River for a boat cruise through the villages, islands, and markets of the Delta.

  • Day 23

    Ho Chi Minh City/Phnom Penh

    Cross the border from Vietnam to Cambodia and arrive to Phnom Penh in the afternoon. Enjoy a cyclo tour through the city to get acquainted with your first stop in Cambodia. Drive to the border and cross into Cambodia. Continue on to the capital, Phnom Penh, and enjoy a cyclo ride through the city for a street-level perspective.

  • Day 24

    Phnom Penh

    Take a guided tour of Tuol Sleng Museum (S-21 Prison) and Choeung Ek (Killing Fields). Then enjoy a free afternoon to visit the Royal Palace, the National Museum or the Central Market. Meet a local guide to learn more about the dark side of Cambodian history. Visit to Choeung Ek, the site of the infamous Killing Fields. After, visit Tuol Sleng Museum (S-21 Prison), the notorious Khmer Rouge prison where thousands of Cambodians perished.

    Enjoy a free afternoon to sightsee. Opt to explore the city's many sights: the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum. With time, choose to visit the Russian Market, Wat Phnom or sip a drink at a riverside café.

  • Day 25

    Phnom Penh/Siem Reap

    Drive from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, the home base for exploring incredible Angkor Wat. Opt to pre-book the "Phare Circus" activity on the checkout page ahead of time, to include this optional on your tour.

  • Day 26

    Siem Reap

    Watch the sun rise over the massive Angkor temple complex with a guided tour. Opt to visit the Tonlé Sap floating village and the Angkor National Museum. Enjoy a traditional meal of Khmer food at a the tour operator for Good-supported project. Spend two days exploring Angkor, the former capital of the Khmer kingdom and one of the wonders of the archaeological world. See some of the highlights of this ancient capital, like sunrise at the magnificent temple of Angkor Wat, the enigmatic Bayon within the walled city of Angkor Thom, and Ta Prohm, also known as the 'Tomb Raider' temple.

    Enjoy a traditional meal to learn about Khmer food and meet some friendly locals. Alternating locations of our included local meal means we can support multiple small businesses and projects in the area. Each experience is truly unique and memorable.

  • Day 27

    Siem Reap

    Spend another day exploring the temples of Angkor. In the afternoon, opt to going further afield in Siem Reap.

  • Day 28

    Siem Reap

    Depart at any time.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Hotels (23 nts), village homestay (1 nt), sleeper train (2 nts), junk boat (1 nt).

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 24, Lunches: 4, Dinners: 3

    Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.

    Vegetarian options available

  • Local Guide

    Guided

    This adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.

  • Wifi

    Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.

Dates & Prices

  • Jul 2026

    from £2,681
  • Aug 2026

    from £2,457
  • Sep 2026

    from £2,312
  • Oct 2026

    from £2,681
  • Nov 2026

    from £2,698
  • Dec 2026

    from £3,174
  • Jan 2027

    from £3,174
  • Feb 2027

    from £3,174
  • Mar 2027

    from £2,988
  • Apr 2027

    from £2,988
  • May 2027

    from £2,792
  • Jun 2027

    from £2,792
  • Jul 2027

    from £2,988
  • Aug 2027

    from £2,792
  • Sep 2027

    from £2,792
  • Oct 2027

    from £2,988
  • Nov 2027

    from £3,174
  • Dec 2027

    from £3,174
  • Jan 2028

    from £2,792
  • Feb 2028

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  • Mar 2028

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  • Apr 2028

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  • May 2028

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  • Jun 2028

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  • Jul 2028

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  • Aug 2028

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  • Sep 2028

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  • Oct 2028

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  • Nov 2028

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  • Dec 2028

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    Saturday 5 Sep 2026to Friday 2 Oct 2026
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Essential trip information

Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.

Frequently asked questions

  • What types of accommodation are included in this tour?

    The tour includes Hotels (23 nights), a village homestay (1 night), sleeper train (2 nights), and a junk boat (1 night). Please note that some hotels in major cities in Vietnam may not have windows, and two-story properties might not have elevators.
  • What meals are included during the trip?

    The tour includes 24 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners.
  • What is the maximum group size for this tour?

    The maximum group size for this tour is 16 travellers.
  • Is travel insurance mandatory for this trip?

    Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. All clients must have medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage coverage are strongly recommended.
  • What are the main highlights of the Southeast Asia Experience tour?

    Key highlights include exploring the bustling streets of Bangkok and Hanoi, sailing on a junk through Halong Bay, traveling by slow boat through the Mekong River, and experiencing a village homestay with a host-prepared Laotian meal.
  • What forms of transportation are used on this tour?

    Transportation includes private vehicle, overnight junk boat, overnight train, plane, walking, tuk-tuk, cyclo, slow-boat, and longtail boat. Internal flights are included in the tour services.
  • How should I dress to respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites?

    In Asia, the dress standard is more conservative. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is recommended. When visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites in predominately Buddhist, Hindu, and Muslim countries, please dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops.
  • Are international flights included in the tour price?

    No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours traveling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please check with your GCO or booking agent for details.
  • Is there a single supplement fee for solo travelers?

    No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.
  • What is the policy on tipping during the tour?

    Tipping is customary in Asia, typically around 10% for service providers like waiters. Recommendations for tipping local guides and drivers range from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day. For your CEO, a guideline of $20-25 USD per person per week is suggested, though the amount is a personal preference.
  • How much emergency money should I bring?

    It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $500 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.
  • What important health considerations should I be aware of before traveling?

    Inoculations may be required, so consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical information well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes. Please note that tour leaders are prohibited from administering any drugs.
  • What are some of the key safety and security considerations for this trip?

    It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and to leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. Petty theft, especially by opportunists on motorbikes, can be an issue in some Vietnamese cities, so bags should be carried over the neck. Avoid jumping or diving into Kuang Si Waterfalls in Luang Prabang due to injury risk. Your CEO has the authority to amend the itinerary for safety concerns.
  • What rules should I know before joining this trip?

    Illegal drugs and the exploitation of prostitutes are strictly not tolerated on any trips. Violation of these rules may result in expulsion from the group without refund.
  • Can I do laundry during the trip?

    Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. It's advisable to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap for self-laundry, as there may be times you need to do your own.
  • What currencies will I use and what should I know about money exchange?

    You will use Thai Baht, US Dollar, Cambodian Riel, Vietnamese Dong, and Laos Kip. Debit cards (Visa/Mastercard) for ATM withdrawals are the best way to carry money. USD cash is recommended for emergencies, but ensure notes are new and in good condition (post-2003, no tears or blemishes).
  • What are the visa and entry requirements for the countries visited on this tour?

    Visa requirements vary by nationality. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from departure. Thailand: Most nationalities do not need a visa for stays of 30 days or less, but a Thailand E-Arrival form is required from May 1, 2025. Vietnam: Visas must be arranged ahead of time, e-Visa available. Laos: E-Visa available, and a Lao PDR Immigration Card is required from September 1, 2025. Cambodia: Visas can be obtained in advance or on arrival (approx. $30 USD, 2 passport photos), and a Cambodia e-Arrival form is required for air arrivals. Always check with the embassy for the latest information.
  • Are there any specific passport requirements for Laos transport?

    Yes, a colored copy of your passport is required in advance of travel to confirm transport used during your visit to Laos.
  • Are there any baggage weight restrictions for internal flights?

    There may be a weight restriction for internal flights on this tour. Each passenger is allowed one checked bag with a maximum weight of 20kg (44lbs). Additional bags or excess weight charges may apply and are the passenger's responsibility.
  • What optional activities are available on this trip?

    A wide range of optional activities are available, including Wat Arun Visit, Thai Massage in Bangkok; Northern Thai Cooking Class in Chiang Mai; Night Market Visit, Cycling in Luang Prabang; Kayaking in Vang Vieng; Wat Sisaket Visit, National Museum Visit in Vientiane; Hanoi Foodie Culture Tour, Temple of Literature in Hanoi; Kayaking in Ha Long Bay; Hue Motorbike Tour; Bike Rental, Tailor Shops, Hoi An Cooking Class in Hoi An; Cu Chi Tunnels Countryside Cycling Tour, Mekong River Delta Tour from Ho Chi Minh City; Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda Visit, Russian Market in Phnom Penh; and Phare Circus, Angkor Museum Visit, Tonle Sap Floating Village in Siem Reap.
  • Who will be leading the group on this tour?

    All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, along with local guides at various locations. The CEO's role is to facilitate your travels, provide information, suggest activities, and recommend local eateries.
  • What is Planeterra and how does it relate to the tour?

    Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that turns travel into positive impact by supporting local, community-owned businesses through tourism. This tour integrates projects like a meal with the local Baan Ou Community in Luang Prabang and Oodles of Noodles in Hoi An, which are supported by Planeterra.
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