Vietnam - Laos Explorer 15days
Tour code: VILA-15
Overview:
The Indochinese countries of Viet Nam and Laos are captivatingly diverse. In bustling Viet Nam you will feel the pulse of Ho Chi Minh City, be intrigued by Hue and Hoi An and soak up the atmosphere of gracious Ha Noi. In neighbouring Laos, discover Asia's most laidback capital before landing in fabled Luang Prabang, a treasure trove of temples and colonial-era architecture. As you will fly between major centres you will have plenty of time for independent exploration, be it down Asia's most ambient backstreets or at the most fascinating of markets.
DAY 1 ARRIVE HO CHI MINH CITY
on arrival in ho chi Minh city Aiport, you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel. After a welcome drink and tour briefing enjoy the first of many delicious dining experiences at a local restaurant.
DAY 2 HO CHI MINH CITY - CU CHI
Explore the city’s historic landmarks including Notre Dame cathedral, the former uS Embassy and experience the excitement of marekt activities in cho Lon, ho chi Minh city’s chinatown. In the afternoon explore the phenomenal underground tunnel network at cu chi.
DAY 3 HO CHI MINH CITY - MEKONG DELTA
Transfer to My Tho and board your boat to cross the Mekong. Navigate the leafy island waterways in a small sampan and arrive at a fruit orchard for a chance to sample tropical fruit and learn about the Delta’s way of life from your friendly local hosts before returning to ho chi Minh city .
DAY 4 HO CHI MINH CITY TO HOI AN
This morning transfer to the airport for a flight to Da Nang on Viet Nam’s central coast. upon arrival visit the famed cham Museum before exploring the caves and shrines of Marble Mountains and nearby china Beach. From there travel the last 25kms to the old merchant town of hoi An.
DAY 5 HOI AN
Walking through the historic hoi An, admire the narrow lanes of centuries old buildings, visit the town’s market and Japanese covered bridge before cruising on the Thu Bon River. Then meet a local farmer and learn about traditional cultivation techniques.
DAY 6 HOI AN -HUE
Transfer over hai Van Pass to hue and visit the impressive citadel, the tombs of Emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. Then travel by boat on Perfume River to visit Thien Mu, the city’s oldest and most beautiful pagoda. Tonight enjoy traditional music and a Royal Banquet of local specialties.
DAY 7 HUE - HA NOI
This morning you are free to wander the Dong Ba Market full of local produce.Transfer to the aiport for a flight to ha Noi. upon arrival drive to your centrally located hotel. In the evening enjoy a traditional water puppet performance.
DAY 8 HA NOI
Tour President ho chi Minh’s Mausoleum and house on Stilts, the one Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, followed by a tour of the Museum of Ethnology and hoa Lo Prison Museum. head to tranquil hoan Kiem Lake for a quiet coffee before heading off to explore ha Noi’s old Quarter on you own.
DAY 9 HA NOI - HA LONG BAY
Travelling to the World heritage site of ha Long Bay in the morning board your junk and enjoy a welcome drink followed by a seafood lunch while cruising through the bay. A chance to explore one of the beautiful grottoes, swim and maybe after dinner try some night fishing.
DAY 10 HA LONG BAY - HA NOI
More swimming and brunch while cruising to the harbour for the return trip to ha Noi. Stop at Dong Trieu ceramic village to see artisans create superb vases using centuries old skills. This evening is free to explore ha Noi by night on your own.
DAY 11 HA NOI - VIENTIANE
After a morning flight to Vientiane, Asia’s most relaxed capital spend the day exploring the capital’s most famous landmarks, That Luang and Wat Sisaket as well as take part in a unique traditional Laos‘baci’welcome ceremony.
DAY 12 VIENTIANE TO LUANG PRABANG
Fly to Luang Prabang that nestles in the arms of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers with a dramatic mountain backdrop and glittering historic temples. Visit the market, magnificent Wat Xieng Thong and climb Mount Phu Si for superb sunset views.
DAY 13 LUANG PRABANG
Visit the spectacular National Museum, formally the Royal residence. Travel up river by boat to visit Pak ou caves. Return mid afternoon to visit Xang Khong“sa”paper village. In the evening participate in a cooking class in traditional Lao cuisine where you get the chance to taste your own creation.
DAY 14 LUANG PRABANG
Rise early to witness hundreds of robed monks following the centuries old tradition of collecting alms. Later drive to the beautiful Kuang Si Falls, exploring the amazing natural surroundings and visit a nearby h’mong village.
DAY 15 LUANG PRABANG
Today you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey
END OF SERVICES
Name your destination, we will bring you you there!
13 nights hotel accommodation 1 night on board the Junk
Breakfast daily, 2 lunches & 1 dinner Air-conditioned vehicles & boat cruise Entrance fees & sightseeing as specified
Local English/French speaking guides
* VAT
* personal expen
