Compare Highlights of Indochina Escapade Experience Air-Inclusive by Pacific Delight Tours vs Authentic Cambodia and Vietnam In 14 Days by Realistic Asia

Day 1: Depart USA

Depart USA cross the international dateline.

Day 2: Arrive Hanoi

Arrive at your Deluxe accommodations.

Day 3: Hanoi

Meals: Breakfast

Begin your day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where visitors can pay respects to the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh. Continue on to Ho Chi Minh Stilt House, the simple two-room dwelling, where Ho Chi Minh lived from 1958 until his final days (1969). Preserved in the same condition as during his life, it may be viewed through the windows only. Stop by the Temple of Literature founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius. This was also the site of Vietnam’s first university.  Finally, discover the Old Quarter of Hanoi by foot. This fascinating network of narrow alleys and shop houses is also known as “The 36 Streets,” each street being named after the merchandise traditionally sold there, ranging from fabrics, crafts, medicines and even tombstones.

Day 4: Hanoi / Halong

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Board a charming, traditional wooden junk for cruising through the Bay. The cruise passes by rock formations with such names as Stone Dog, Incense Burner (Dinh Huong), and Fighting Cock (Ga Choi). At the core of the islets, there is a wonderful cave to visit called Thien Cung (Heavenly Residence Grotto). Disembark at Halong Pier.

Day 5: Halong / Hanoi / Danang /  Hoi An

Meals: Breakfast

Transfer by vehicle back to Hanoi airport and fly to Danang. Upon arrival, transfer from Danang airport to Hoi An.

Day 6: Hoi An

Meals: Breakfast

The beautifully preserved historic city of Hoi An is best seen on foot.  The walking tour includes the Japanese Covered Bridge Pagoda (the first bridge on this site was constructed in 1593 by the Japanese community of Hoi An to link the town with the Chinese quarters across the stream), Sa Huynh Museum containing exhibitions from the earliest period of Hoi An’s history,  Tran Family Chapel (the  architecture of this 200-year-old house built for worshipping ancestors reflects the influence of Chinese and Japanese styles), Phuoc Kien Assembly Hall with a temple dedicated to Thien Hau Thanh Mau (Goddess of the Sea and Protector of Sailors and Fishermen), and a lantern-making workshop, where you can observe locals adorning silk cloth over the lanterns’ frame.

Day 7: Hoi An / Danang / Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Meals: Breakfast

Transfer back to Danang and fly to Ho Chi Minh City also known as Saigon. Begin the trip into modern history with a tour of the Reunification Palace. Formerly, the Independence Palace of the South Vietnamese president, this 60s-style building was famously stormed by tanks on April 30, 1975, signifying the fall of South Vietnam. It has been preserved in its original state, and the original tanks remain on display near the entrance gates.  Afterwards, drive to the historic centre to visit Emperor of Jade Pagoda. Proceed to pay a quick visit to the neo-Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. Pass by the classic European-style landmarks such as the ornate City Hall (Hotel De Ville) and the old Opera House (both may only be viewed from the outside). Finally, end up at the central Ben Thanh Market, where vendors display a vast array of goods and handicrafts.

Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Meals: Breakfast

Today is at leisure to explore on our own.

Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) / Siem Reap

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Today, fly to Siem Reap. The crown jewel of Khmer architecture Angkor Wat is the national symbol and the highlight of any visit to Cambodia. The largest, best preserved, and most religiously significant of the Angkorian temples, Angkor Wat impresses visitors both by its sheer scale and beautifully proportioned layout, as well as the delicate artistry of its carvings. To approach the temple, first cross the vast moat, continuing along a broad causeway lined with naga balustrades. Upon entering the main structure, ascend through a series of galleries and a courtyard, before reaching the central sanctuary. On the way, stop to enjoy the intricate stone carvings that adorn nearly every surface of the temple, with some 1,700 Apsaras, or celestial dancers, sculpted onto the walls. Along the outer gallery walls, run the longest continuous bas-relief in the world, which narrates stories from Hindu mythology, including the famous Churning of the Ocean of Milk. Angkor Wat is stunning at any time of the day, but sunrise and sunset are especially beautiful times to watch the play of light on the stones. Later, experience a revival of the great history of the Angkor dynasty, which includes a buffet dinner and show at The Smile of Angkor.

Day 10: Siem Reap

Meals: Breakfast

Today is at leisure to explore on our own.

Day 11: Siem Reap / Bangkok

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bangkok.

Day 12: Bangkok

Meals: Breakfast

This morning, your sightseeing highlight is a visit to the lavish Royal Grand Palace, official home of the Thai royal family. Wat Phra Keow, in contrast, awes guests with the sight and aura of the priceless Emerald Buddha.

Day 13: Bangkok

Meals: Breakfast

The following day is at leisure to enjoy on your own.

Day 14: Journey Home

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, bid farewell to Southeast Asia.

Day 1 Welcome to Cambodia - Siem Reap Arrival

Your Cambodia and Vietnam adventure begins with your arrival in Siem Reap. Your private driver will meet you at the airport, holding a signboard with your name. He will escort you to your accommodation right in the heart of the city. You can easily explore the city at your own pace or relax at the hotel after the flight.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 2 Explore The Capital Of Ancient Khmer (B)

Have breakfast at the hotel and get ready to explore the famous Angkor complex. Start your exploration with the visit to the South Gate of Angkor Thom, the best-preserved holy Buddhist gateway to Angkor Thom, built in the 12th century. Then visit Bayon Temple, The Royal Enclosure, Phimeanaka, the Elephant Terrace, and Leper King Terrace. Continue to Ta Prohm, a famous temple covered by trees growing out of the ruins. This temple is where the most impressive scenes of Lara Croft: Tomb Raider were filmed.

In the afternoon, you will visit Hindu temples Thommanon, Chaosay Tevoda, and Ta Keo, the small, attractive temples in a good condition, built all the same time as Angkor Wat. Then continue to Angkor Wat - one of the “7th Wonders of the World” and a World Heritage Site since 1992. Famous for its beauty and splendor Angkor Wat features the longest continuous bas-relief in the world, which runs along the outer gallery walls and narrates stories from Hindu mythology. After visiting Angkor Wat, you will get to the top of Bakheng Hill for sunset viewing. Bakheng is the first temple constructed in the Angkor area. This mountain temple offers extraordinary views of the Tonle Sap and Angkor Wat.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 3 Siem Reap - Travel to Phnom Penh, Phnom Penh Sightseeing (B)

Have breakfast at the hotel and get ready for your transfer to Phnom Penh by air-conditioned bus. In the afternoon you will visit the Royal Palace, which is currently a residence of His Majesty, the King of Cambodia, and the royal family. The palace looks like a small town of royal dynasties. Continue to Silver Pagoda, which serves less as a functioning temple than a repository for cultural treasures such as 90 kg golden Buddha encrusted with 2086 diamonds. Finally visit Wat Phnom Temple, one of the most important pagodas in Phnom Penh It was built in 1373 on an artificial hill by the wealthy widow Daun Chi Penh.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Day 4 Phnom Penh Sightseeing - Flight To Ho Chi Minh (B) - flight included

Have breakfast at the hotel, then visit Tuol Sleng Museum (S-21 prison). This former school was used as a prison by Pol Pot’s security forces. More than 17,000 people held at S-21 were taken to the extermination camp at Choeng Ek to be executed. Then visit Russian Market (Toul Tumpong Market). Here you can find everything: clothing, a large selection of Buddha images and woodcarvings, betel-nut boxes, silk, silver jewelry, and classic musical instrument. Then you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh.

Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh city, our driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh.

Day 5 Discover The Fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels (B) - group tour

Have breakfast at the hotel and depart for Cu Chi tunnels around 8:00-8:30 am. The trip will take approximately one and a half hours drive. Upon arrival, you will have a short introduction followed by an introductory video about how the tunnels were constructed, and how the people survived in the harsh conditions of wartime.

Then, spend your time exploring the remaining area and tunnel systems, which included the living areas, kitchens, and bedrooms side by side with other martial facilities like storage, weapons factories, field hospitals, and command centers. All this was to help people living inside the tunnels meet their basic needs. Besides, there are many hidden trap doors and dangerous traps within the maze-like tunnels for security purposes during the war. Afterward, special tea and cassava (guerilla food during the war) will be served. Then you will return to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh.

Day 6 Sailing Through Mighty Mekong Delta (B/L) - group tour

Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast, and a trip to Mekong Delta follows. The guide will meet you at the hotel lobby around 7:15-7:30 am, and you will head to My Tho, which lies on the left side of the Mekong River.

Upon arrival, board the sampan and cruise down the river around the four beautiful islands, known as Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise islands. Stop at Unicorn Island, walk around the country lanes and see the orchards. Visit fruit plantations and enjoy tropical fruits and folk song music performed by the local people.

Then take a hand-rowed sampan through Thoi Son canal and immerse yourself in the beauty of the countryside. Visit family workshops and honey-bee farms, and taste some honey tea and coconut candies.

Refuel yourself with a traditional Vietnamese lunch, and later cycle around the Tan Thach village, and meet the local villagers to experience the local daily life in the Mekong Delta. If you are not keen on a cycling trip, enjoy a cool breeze and a relaxing time in a hammock. Afterward, you will get back to your accommodation.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh.

Day 7 Flight From Vibrant Ho Chi Minh to Graceful Hue (B) - flight included

Relish the remaining moment in Ho Chi Minh before your private driver escorts you to the airport to take the flight to Hue. When you arrive at Hue airport, your driver will pick you up and transfer you to your accommodation in the city center. The rest of the time is free at leisure.

Overnight in Hue.

Day 8 Hue City Tour (B/L) - group tour

Hue City is the cultural, political, and economic center of the Thua Thien Hue province, and used to be an old imperial city of Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty. During this time, the most remarkable architectural monuments were constructed, which now are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Your guide will meet you at your hotel around 8:00-8:30 am.

Start your exploration with the boat trip on the Perfume River to Thien Mu pagoda, which is the oldest pagodas in Hue. Then visit the Imperial Citadel, where the Nguyen Dynasty ruled between 1802 and 1945. Here you will also visit the Royal Antiques Museum to see the collection of ornaments from the Nguyen dynasty. Then head to the bustling Dong Ba market.

Have delicious Vietnamese lunch. In the afternoon, we will head to Khai Dinh’s Tomb, which combines traditional Vietnamese style with a European touch, making it unique from the other tombs in Hue. Then explore Minh Mang's Tomb, which represents the Confucian style. On the way, you will also visit conical hats and incense sticks villages. You will be back at your hotel around 16:00-17:00.

Overnight in Hue.

Day 9 Travel from Hue To The Most Picturesque Old Town Hoi An (B)

Have breakfast at the hotel and get ready for the transfer from Hue to Hoi An by private car. You will drive through one of the most beautiful roads in the world - Hai Van Pass. You will be blown away by the stunning views of the mountains and the sea. Upon arrival in Hoi An check in the hotel and have free time to explore the surrounding area.

Overnight in Hoi An.

DAY 10 Hoi An Basket Boat and Fishing Tour - group tour Flight to Hanoi (B/L)

Today your English-speaking guide will meet you at the hotel around 8:00 am and take you for a cycle trip to the countryside and rivers around Hoi An. As you meander through the countryside, you will experience the friendliness of the local people greeting you along the way and enjoy the beautiful views of the neighborhood. After that, you will board a boat for a river cruise to meet and engage with local fishermen. Enjoy a hands-on experience of traditional net fishing. Later, you will take a paddle boat trip in a unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boat down the waterways of a coconut palm paradise. After the boat trip, have delicious lunch and cycle back to your hotel. Later our driver will take you to the airport for your flight to Hanoi.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 11 Excursion To The Natural Wonder Of The World - Ha Long Bay (B/L/D)

In the morning, check out of the hotel, and get picked up by the Cruise team. Take the most scenic route to reach Halong Bay, taking you across the Red River Delta with emerald green rice paddies stretching for as far as the eyes can see.

On arrival at the pier, you will board the cruise and enjoy the fantastic views of limestone rocks and the karst grottoes. Have an utterly delicious seafood lunch and enjoy the time at the sundeck exploring the Bay.

The cruise will stop in a secret place where you will spend time kayaking or swimming, so you can explore the karst grottoes closer. Towards the evening, you will return to the boat for an early dinner, followed by some time at leisure. You can optionally attend the activities taking part on the boat or just relax.

Overnight on cruise.

Note: In case of bad weather (the boat is not allowed to push off or not allowed to overnight in the sea), the Ha Long bay tour could be canceled without notice. We will consider other replacement tours or a refund based on the specific circumstances.

Day 12 Halong Bay - Back To Tranquil Capital (B/L)

Rise early today to view the sunrise at the wonder of nature with breakfast served in the dining room. A Tai Chi class on the sun deck will awake your mind and muscles.

Then head off to visit the limestone cave full of stalagmites and stalactites. After your exploration return to the boat to check out and enjoy the brunch while the cruise is sailing back to the harbor. Later you will be transferred to your accommodation in Hanoi.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 13 Getaway From The Big City With Ba Vi Eco Tour (B/L)

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel then our experienced English-speaking guide escorts you on the trip to Ba Vi, a countryside located on the outskirt of Hanoi.

Arrive at Ri village, enjoy the welcome drink and snacks and meet your first host - Mr. Duoc, who is a Vietnam War veteran and tea-farm owner. Listen to the stories of Mr. Duoc's life during the war while enjoying the drink and then visit his tea plantation. You will learn how to pick the best tea leaves to make the most wonderful beverage in Vietnam. Carry on with the tea production at his small workshop, where most of the work is manual.

Then have a short drive to Moc village, where you will meet your next host Mrs. Chin, who will teach you how to cook local Vietnamese dishes. Later have the meals you made for lunch in a beautiful tropical garden.

Have a short break after lunch, and join Mrs. Chin for a walk around the village. You will visit some local families to understand the rural lifestyle and learn how tofu, conical hats, and other local products are made. Then have a cycling trip through beautiful paddy fields. Wrap up your countryside tour with traditional feet soak in warm water with herbs, following the traditional recipes of the Muong ethnic minority. It will relax you (and your feet) after cycling around the village. Later, enjoy a transfer from Ba Vi back to your accommodation.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 14 Time To Say Goodbye - Hanoi Departure (B)

Relish a healthy breakfast on the final day of your trip to Cambodia and Vietnam. Complete the hotel check-out formalities, after which you can visit the local markets to buy souvenirs for your loved ones. Later your private driver will transfer you to the airport to take your flight back home.

Trip Ends.