Compare South East Asia Loop by Intrepid Travel vs The Mekong and Icons of Southeast Asia: Ha Long Bay, Angkor Wat & Luang Prabang by Road Scholar

Day 1 Bangkok

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Thailand's bustling capital, Bangkok, is famous for its tuk-tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious local food. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, if you arrive earlier, why not venture out into this enigmatic city. Bangkok has so much to offer those with time to explore, so perhaps arrive a day or so early to uncover the Chinatown area, visit the magnificent (but very crowded) Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, indulge in a Thai massage or see the backstreets of Bangkok by bike on an Urban Adventure. Find out more at urbanadventures.com. After the meeting tonight, gather your fellow travellers together and tuck into some into world famous street food for our first optional dinner.

Day 2 Bangkok - Overnight train

Begin the day with a 1-hour river cruise down the Chao Phraya River to explore the famous ‘khlongs’ (canals). Life along these canals seems a world away from the chaotic streets of the capital. Pay a visit to Wat Pho, one of the Bangkok temples, with a 46-metre long gold-plated Buddha reclining inside. Even the feet of this statue are incredible, three metres long and intricately decorated with mother of pearl. The temple grounds are equally fascinating, filled with beautifully decorated stupas, halls, and shrines. This evening you’ll head north to Chiang Mai on an overnight train journey, accommodated in a sleeper carriage (approximately 13 hours). The carriages are air-conditioned, with bunk beds; clean sheets, blanket and pillow are provided. Your baggage travels in the carriage with you. There is a food and drink service available on board. Sometimes the air conditioning can make the carriage quite cold so you may want to bring a warm layer of clothing.

Day 3 Chiang Mai

The most vibrant city in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai has many famous temples and an interesting old city area. Renowned for its lively cafe scene and extremely welcoming locals, this place captivates many travellers. First, embark on a scenic, winding drive up a mountain (around 45 minutes) to one of the country's most stunning temple complexes, Doi Suthep. A 300-step naga-guarded stairway leads you to the temples, and the climb is well worth the effort. The hypnotic atmosphere of chanting Buddhist monks and sweeping views of the city make this a most memorable experience. After making our way back down from the temple, check in to the hotel and plan the rest of your time here. In the evening you can choose to wander through the enormous, colourful Night Bazaar or perhaps relax at a fine restaurant along the riverfront. Make sure to sample some delicious traditional northern Thai food – the signature dish is kao soy, yellow wheat noodles in a curry broth, traditionally served with chicken or beef.

Day 4 Chiang Mai

Today is free for you to explore and there are plenty of optional activities available. Perhaps join a local cooking class today and discover the secrets of real Thai cuisine, you'll learn the key ingredients, how to use them, and what to use in their place if you can’t get them at home. As well as taking your own comprehensive recipe book with you after the class, you'll feast on the fruits of your labour for lunch. Get active with a bicycle tour to discover the city and surrounding countryside from a different perspective, or be spirited away on an early morning Chiang Mai tour that puts you at the epicentre of Buddhist rituals. Learn to meditate, offer alms to monks, and make an offering at a temple. Also popular is the lovely Elephant Sanctuary at Chang Chill.

Day 5 Chiang Khong

Take a journey through rural countryside to the Thai border town of Chiang Khong (approximately 5.5 hours). On the way visit privately owned Wat Rong Khun, more commonly known as the White Temple – a must visit in Chiang Rai. This contemporary temple is constantly being updated, and its strange design features references to Buddhist mythology, human sin and pop culture icons such as Michael Jackson, Harry Potter and Superman. Formerly known as 'Juon', peaceful riverside Chiang Khong remains an important market town for the surrounding hill tribes and for trade with Laos. Stretch your legs with a stroll around town, and if you find yourself with time, then Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Luang are both well worth a visit while you’re here. Tonight, why not enjoy a final Thai drink and dinner, while Laos beckons from across the mighty Mekong.

Day 6 Mekong River - Pak Beng

After crossing into Laos and for the duration of our time in the country we will be joined by additional Laos guides – a government requirement. Board a slow boat for the 2-day journey down the mighty Mekong River to Luang Prabang. The journey is relaxed, so you can experience the slow pace of village life and the breathtaking scenery along the river up close. The river boat is basic in nature, with a toilet, covered roof, and open sides to take in the fresh air. There are seats in the front of the boat and a small open area in the back where you can have a nap on the mat, play cards, read or have lunch. Dock at the small town of Pak Beng (after about 6 hours) to spend the night. Hmong and tribal Thai people are frequently seen on the main streets, where vendors sell local textiles and handicrafts.

Day 7 Mekong River - Luang Prabang

Reboard the boat and cruise to the Pak Ou Caves. An important religious site overlooking the river at the junction of the Mekong and Ou Rivers, the revered Pak Ou Caves consist of two sacred limestone caverns filled with Buddha images of all styles and sizes, brought by devoted villagers over the centuries. The lower cave, known as Tham Ting, is entered from the river by a series of steps and can easily be seen in daylight. The higher cave, Tham Phum, is deeper and requires a torch for viewing. Continue on to the former royal capital of Luang Prabang (approximately 7 hours total journey time). This atmospheric World Heritage-listed city is a favourite of many travellers. Nestled in the hills of northern Laos on the confluence of the Mekong and Khan rivers, the city is claimed to be ‘the best preserved city in South East Asia’ by UNESCO. The city and its people retain a refined, yet relaxed, air and it’s a wonderful place to wander the streets into boutiques, cafes and small shops. Stay in a hotel tonight and if you are feeling energetic, climb Mt Phousi for some sunset views – the large hill that dominates Luang Prabang's skyline, topped by a glittering golden stupa. You can climb the 328 zigzag steps up to the sacred gilded stupa and big drum of the Phu Si Temple for a panoramic view of Luang Prabang and its surrounds.

Day 8 Luang Prabang

Once the heart and soul of the ancient Lao Kingdom (Lan Xang) and designated a World Heritage site in 1995, Luang Prabang is endowed with a legacy of historic red-roofed temples and French-Indochinese architecture, not to mention some of the country's most refined cuisine, a multi-ethnic population and rich culture. Rise with the sun this morning and witness a traditional alms giving ceremony. View the procession of saffron-robed monks on their daily outing collecting food offered by devotees, a practice that dates back centuries. The offerings must be collected early, as the monks cannot eat anything after midday. By giving food to a monk, it is believed you ‘het bon’ (make merit) which will be carried over into the next life. Your leader will guide you through the do’s and don’ts and help you to take part in this alms giving tradition. Return back to your hotel for breakfast and a free morning. In the afternoon, head south of town and stop for a sweet (socially responsible) treat at Laos Buffalo Dairy, an enterprise that works with the surrounding villagers by renting their buffalo, in order to produce delicious products including yoghurt, cheese and ice cream. The Dairy ensures a regular income for locals while ensuring the buffalo and their calves are well looked after. Why not contribute to this local business by purchasing an ice cream! Continue on to the beautiful Kuang Si Falls, a picturesque, multi-level cascade that offers fantastically blue pools that are perfect for a mid-afternoon dip. Back in Luang Prabang this evening you’ll have free time to make further discoveries, including visiting the popular night market.

Day 9 Luang Prabang

This morning, experience a wonderful local elephant project in nearby Mandalao that will give you a new perspective and profound understanding of these magnificent beasts. Discover the mysterious beauty of the Lao jungle as you walk side by side with recently rescued elephants on stroll through their natural habitat – a perfect way for these happy creatures to enjoy their freedom after decades of hard labour in logging camps. Begin by leaving Luang Prabang for the village of Xieng Lom (approximately 30 minutes) before taking a quick boat ride across the Nam Khan River where you’ll be introduced to your new gigantic companions. Feed them some special treats (a sure way to win their friendship) followed by a gentle, therapeutic walk, that offers you the opportunity to absorb their calming energy as you wander along a small dirt path through the surrounding flora and fauna, past traditional farms and the Huay Nok stream – where you may be able to spot elephants splashing around in the water as they cool off from the hot Lao sun! As you prepare to start your walk back to Mandalao, say goodbye to your new friends. Return to Luang Prabang in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 10 Vang Vieng

Take a high-speed train today to Vang Vieng (approximately 1 hour). Situated on the Nam Song River, Vang Vieng is surrounded by towering limestone karsts and is a great place to enjoy being out in and surrounded by nature. After checking in to the hotel, use tonight to plan out your next few days with your group and leader.

Day 11 Vang Vieng

There’s plenty to do in and around Vang Vieng, known as an adventure town thanks to its unique and varied surrounding country. The area is renowned for its caves, many of which are easily accessible from the town. Perhaps the most famous is the cave of Tham Chang, a beautiful cavern fed by a natural spring making it a perfect spot for a refreshing swim. Hire bicycles to explore further afield, hike the trails to nearby lookout points, join a day trip to go kayaking on the river, or you can visit an organic mulberry farm just outside town and enjoy a meal there.

Day 12 Vientiane

Continue by private minibus to the country's capital, Vientiane (approximately 3.5 hours). Possibly Asia's most laidback capital, even here everything seems to be conducted at a relaxed pace. Vientiane has a wealth of cultural delights to discover on foot, or for the less energetic, by jumbo (tuk-tuk). Faded colonial mansions, tree-lined boulevards and old temples create an atmosphere of timelessness, particularly in the older part of town along the Mekong River. Pay a visit to Wat Si Saket, the oldest temple still standing in Vientiane and home to almost 7000 Buddha images. Visit COPE vistors centre, an organisation dedicated to assistance those who have been injured by the multitude of unexploded ordinance across the country. This is an excellent cause and a chance to educate yourself about Laos' devastating war history as well as buy a snack or drink from their Karma Cafe. This evening, maybe join your fellow travellers for dinner tonight.

Day 13 Hanoi

Say goodbye to Laos today as you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Hanoi. A driver will wait for you and take you from the airport to your hotel in Hanoi. Then enjoy some free time in Hanoi before your 6pm briefing to meet your new group and new leader. Tonight, enjoy a group dinner at KOTO restaurant. This organisation is dedicated to developing the hospitality careers of disadvantaged youth. If you arrive early, there’s plenty to see and do. Consider booking an urban adventure tour if you have time or maybe take it at your own pace and wander the Old Quarter to admire the city’s French-colonial architecture.

Day 14 Halong Bay

Travel by private minibus to World Heritage-listed Ha Long Bay, which is dotted with sandy coves, grottoes and 1600 limestone islands formed over millennia by wind and water erosion. Board a private boat and cruise the bay, exploring Surprise Cave and perhaps even enjoying a swim from Ti Top Island Beach during the warmer months. Access to Surprise Cave is via staircases. Once inside the cave the pathways are a little uneven and slippery. To end the day, spend an evening aboard the boat beneath the night sky. What better way to get to know your fellow travellers than an old school sleepover in an unforgettable location?

Day 15 Hanoi – Overnight train

Wake up on the waters of Ha Long Bay, and before you leave the memorable scenery behind, it’s time for one last stop. The Green Life Centre is committed to turning Halong Bay’s trash into treasure by collecting discarded items and skillfully turning them into beautiful handicrafts. Meet the team behind this important cause and learn how to transform rubbish into a useful and reusable bag. After your visit, return by bus to Hanoi. Arrive late this afternoon and enjoy free time until tonight’s train voyage. Be sure to grab a bowl of pho while you’re in town and slurp down this local specialty made from broth, noodles and meat. Maybe chill by Hoan Kiem Lake until you board an overnight train to Hue this evening.

Day 16 Hue

Arrive in Hue this morning and transfer to the hotel. Once the imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue holds the treasures of the country’s royal past. Enjoy free time in the morning to rest or explore. If you choose the latter (and who can blame you) the bustling Dong Ba Market is a great place to sample some of the specialties that once graced the Nguyen emperors' tables like banh khoai (royal rice cake). Reunite with the group to visit the war-damaged ruins of the Imperial Citadel, a sprawling city-within-a-city which contains the remains of temples, state houses and the emperor’s palace.

Day 17 Hue

See Hue like a local – from the back of a motorbike! Straddle the saddle and whiz around town with a local guide, taking in historic and contemporary sights along the way. Stop at Thanh Toan to see the 18th-century covered bridge and villagers shopping at their local market. Visit the 17th-century active Buddhist monastery of Thien Mu Pagoda and see the car that belonged to Thich Quang Duc, the monk who self-immolated in 1963 in protest against the treatment of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese regime. For lunch, savour a vegetarian feast in a nunnery. Finish at the lakeside royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc before heading back to town.

Day 18 Hoi An

This morning travel by bus through coastal rice paddies and the spectacular Hai Van Pass. After a photo stop on the way, arrive into Hoi An. Recently declared a World Heritage site, Hoi An was a major international trading port during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Today, parts of the beautifully-preserved town retain the feel of centuries past. It's also a shopping mecca, famous for its plethora of tailors. When you arrive, your leader will take you on a sightseeing walk through the Old Town to visit a handful of the city's major attractions. You’ll also be given a sightseeing pass so you can further explore select attractions at your leisure.

Day 19 Hoi An

Today is a free day to explore Hoi An. Maybe browse the cobbled streets and art galleries or hire a bike and cycle through rice paddies out to Cua Dai Beach. Maybe browse for paintings, ceramics and colourful cloth lanterns in the town’s markets and preserved Chinese shophouses. If you’re craving a new look, you could pay a visit to one of the hundreds of tailors and get something special made. Hoi An is also known for its delicious regional food, so be sure to enjoy a meal at a riverside restaurant or perhaps partake in a cooking class.

Day 20 Ho Chi Minh City

Today take a short, early morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City has a fascinating history and is arguably Vietnam’s capital of commerce and culture. After landing, take a sightseeing tour around the city by bus. Pass the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Opera House, then stop in at the War Remnants Museum to discover some of the sobering stories of the 20-year-long Vietnam/American War.

Day 21 Mekong Delta – Ho Chi Minh City

This morning head out on a day trip to explore the Mekong Delta. Board a private boat to Ben Tre to visit the coconut gardens and stop at a local home to sample tropical fruits and coconut jams. After, paddle in sampans (small rowing boats) past coconut trees along the Mekong Delta. Take a tuk-tuk tour around the villages and learn about rural life and the industry created around coconut products like brooms and coconut fibre mats. Eat lunch at a restaurant in the heart of the Delta, sampling regional specialties such as the famous elephant ear fish. Cruise the major waterways to Ben Tre boat pier, then return by bus to Ho Chi Minh City. This evening, perhaps head out to sample some local specialties as a final farewell with your fellow travellers and leader.

Day 22 Ho Chi Minh City

Xin chao! Welcome to Vietnam. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm in Ho Chi Minh City. If you have free time before the meeting, get out and discover the city's blend of old and new, East and West at your own pace. The Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum are great sites to learn more about Vietnam's history. If you arrive a day or two early, the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta make for excellent and insightful day trips from the city. After your meeting tonight, why not grab your group and head out for dinner.

Day 23 Phnom Penh

Travel by public bus across the border, through rural Vietnam and Cambodia and onto Phnom Penh. Cambodia's capital city is set on a major junction of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers and boasts some fine examples of French-inspired architecture. If you're looking for a tasty beverage when you arrive, head for a mojito on the rooftop or if you're in the mood for shopping, stop in at the art-deco Psar Thmei (Central Market) or travel out to Psar Tuol Tom Pong (the Russian Market) for the best range of local souvenirs.

Day 24 Phnom Penh

Today, confront Cambodia's tragic past on a guided tour of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21), a former school which served as a Khmer Rouge torture centre. It's estimated that more than 20,000 people were held and tortured here. You’ll also head out to the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, where a stupa made up of some 8000 human skulls marks the execution ground for the torture victims of Tuol Sleng. Afterwards, you may wish to learn about a brighter period in Cambodian history from an optional visit to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Wat Phnom, shrouded in myth, is equally worth a visit, as is the National Museum with its excellent Khmer collection. Cyclo tours around the city are a great alternative to walking and generally include the Central Market, US Embassy, Wat Phnom, Mekong riverfront, the Independence Monument and Royal Palace.

Day 25 Battambang

Travel by private minibus to Battambang today. Break up an otherwise long trip with a visit to the pottery visit in Kampong Chhnang,and learn about the craft of pottery making at local workshops. Then continue to Cambodia's second-largest city. A pretty riverside town of French elegance, friendly Khmer people and beautifully preserved colonial architecture, this is a great place to explore on your own. Why not take part in an optional cooking class to learn the secrets of local dishes such as amok, Khmer curry and fried spicy chicken.

Day 26 Siem Reap

Spend a bit of time riding around the countryside by bike, travelling out to the rural villages around Battambang. This is a great opportunity to get a closer look at what rural life means in Cambodia. Visit local families who have been producing agricultural products the traditional way passed down through generations, like rice paper, dried bananas, and bamboo sticky rice and stop by a Khmer house and relax and enjoy some coconut water while chatting about their life. The Intrepid partner for this activity is a local social enterprise that support training of local youth for their future career. In the afternoon continue by private minibus to Siem Reap, arriving in the evening, and relax as you prepare for your much-anticipated visit to Angkor tomorrow. Perhaps hit the markets for some delicious street food for dinner.

Day 27 Siem Reap / Angkor Wat

A very rewarding morning to get to Angkor Wat in the early hours to watch the sun rising over it as it did in the ancient times (weather permitting). Then Temple-hop with your local guide and make the most of your visit to the world-famous Angkor complex. The temples, dating back as far as the ninth century, were believed to represent the cosmic world and were set in perfect balance, symmetry and composition. The intricately carved bas-reliefs and architectural designs are mind-blowing and there are spectacular photo opportunities at any time of day. Watching a sunrise or sunset is a must. The ruins are scattered over an area of some 160 square km, but the main cluster of temples is close to Siem Reap, so there will be plenty of time to fully appreciate the great archaeological sites of Angkor Wat, Bayon and the jungle-covered Ta Prohm.

Day 28 Siem Reap / Angkor Wat

Continue your explorations of the Angkor complex this morning. In the afternoon, embark on a private local boat discover the floating villages and local daily lives at Chhong Kneas, a trading port of agricultural products on the edge of Tonle Sap Lake, also known as the Great Lake of Cambodia.

Day 29 Bangkok

It's a long drive by private minibus from Siem Reap to Bangkok today. Arrive in Thailand's bustling capital and take in this exciting world of tuk tuks, khlong boats, and street vendors serving up delicious Thai food. Perhaps head out to sample some local specialties as a final farewell with your fellow travellers.

Day 30 Bangkok

Your trip comes to an end this morning, with no further activities planned. However, if you have more time, Bangkok is full of things to do, including the Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the fascinating Jim Thompson museum. Just speak to your booking agent if you'd like to extend your stay.

Day 1 In Transit to Program In Flight

Day 2 En Route In Flight

Day 3 Arrival Hanoi, Orientation, Welcome Dinner Hanoi

Hotel check-in available from 2:00pm. Arrivals throughout the day and early evening. Please note: If you arrive at the program late and miss Orientation, the Group Leader will give you a brief overview the following day.

Check in to your hotel and rest after the long journey to Vietnam. Please note: if you arrive at the program late and miss Orientation, the Group Leader will give you a brief overview the following day. *Orientation*: The Group Leader will greet everyone with a warm welcome and lead introductions. In addition to the program theme and logistics, we will review the up-to-date daily schedule and any changes, discuss responsibilities, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer any questions you may have. We will review COVID-19 protocols and will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines and requirements throughout the program. Please be aware that indicated times are approximate and that program activities and schedules could change due to local circumstances such as weather, traffic conditions, etc. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. During free time, the Group Leader will often be available for informal excursions, activities, or meals not included in the program. You are welcome to join if you wish, with any associated costs at your own expense, or you may explore independently.

At leisure.

Welcome Dinner with a welcome drink at the hotel, featuring a taste of local food. Bottled water, coffee & tea included; additional beverages available for purchase.

Day 4 Hanoi Exploration, Museum of Ethnology Hanoi

Getting on/off motorcoach; minimal driving. Walking up to 2 miles total throughout the day on paved, mostly level, surfaces.

We begin the morning with a presentation on the History of Vietnam, led by a local expert. Next, we board a private motorcoach and visit Ba Dinh Square where Ho Chi Minh himself read out the Declaration of Independence in 1945. Inside Ba Dinh Square, revel at the simplicity of Ho Chi Minh's house. Visit the One Pillar Pagoda, constructed to celebrate the heiress Emperor Ly Thai Tong, who dreamt about receiving a son from the Buddhist goddess of mercy and compassion.

We board the motorcoach and transfer to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university. For those interested, we continue on a guided visit of the Museum of Ethnology and learn about the lives and cultures of the 54 ethnic groups that live in Vietnam. The remainder of the afternoon is free for us to explore on our own.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

At a local restaurant. Bottled water, coffee & tea included; additional beverages available for purchase.

This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on our own to enjoy what we like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions.

Day 5 Transfer to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site Halong Bay

The transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay via motorcoach is approximately 3 hours with a rest stop en route.

We board a private motorcoach and drive to Halong Bay. Along the way, we learn about Northern Vietnamese life from our Group Leader. Late morning, we board a traditional Vietnamese Junk for one night. "Ha Long" which means "Bay of Descending Dragons," is a stunning a site, famous for its scenic ocean karst topography and peaceful horizon.

Using small rowboats to come ashore, we visit Thien Canh Son Cave. Later in the afternoon we have a presentation on the ecology and environmental issues of Halong Bay.

At leisure.

Buffet at the hotel.

Aboard the boat. Enjoy characteristic Vietnamese cuisine with appetizer, choice of entrée, and dessert.

Aboard the boat. Bottled water, coffee & tea included; additional beverages available for purchase.

Day 6 Halong Bay, Coach to Hanoi, Old Quarters, Water Puppet show Hanoi

The transfer from Halong Bay to Hanoi via motorcoach is approximately 3 hours with a rest stop en route.

Enjoy sunrise and a leisurely morning cruising through Halong Bay. On an early morning excursion, we reboard our small rowboats to explore a local fishing village. Afterwards, we return to the boat for brunch and prepare for check-out.

Explore Hanoi's vibrant Old Quarter beginning with a cyclo ride near Hoam Kiem Lake. We also visit a restored 'tube house' to see how residents in this area once used to live. Remnant of a bygone era, the Old Quarter has the original street layout and architecture of old Hanoi. At the beginning of the 20th century the city consisted of only about 36 streets, most of which are now part of the Old Quarter. Each street then had merchants and households specialized in a particular trade, such as silk traders, jewellery, etc. The street names nowadays still reflect these specializations, although few of them remain exclusively in their original commerce.

Engage in a traditional northern Vietnamese “Mua Roi Nuoc” performance -- a water puppet show. Water puppetry is performed in a pool, and typically depicts scenes from rural life and episodes of national history. This uniquely northern Vietnamese art form is a centuries old variation on ancient Asian puppet traditions. Puppets would be put out to watch over crops and, when fields flooded, villagers would entertain themselves with the puppets.

Early morning coffee, tea and pastries.

Brunch on board the boat before returning to the port of Halong Bay, disembarking and transferring back to Hanoi by private motorcoach.

At own arrangements.

At a local restaurant. Bottled water, coffee & tea included; additional beverages available for purchase.

Day 7 Fly to Laos, Board Riverboat, Explore Night Market Luang Prabang

Flight from Hanoi to Laos approximately 1 hour. Board Mekong Sun. Please note: Every river cruise on the upper Mekong is a pioneering experience and is subject to constantly changing river conditions, including floodwaters and shallows. The river-cruise itinerary of this tour may be altered due to the logistical complexities, or for safety reasons, depending on weather and river conditions.

Luggage out and hotel check-out. We transfer to the airport for our flight to Luang Prabang, Laos.

Arrive in Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon arrival, we transfer by coach to board the Mekong Sun - our home for the next five nights. We have time to settle in before dinner.

After dinner, those interested can take a 10 minute walk into town and hike up Phusi Hill. The hike up is approximately 20 minutes along a path with some steps. In front of Phusi Hill is the Hmong Night market. This is where a lot of ethnic minorities, especially the Hmong community, sell handmade items. There are many other items for sale making this market a great place to explore. It is a huge part of the Luang Prabang community in the evening.

Buffet at the hotel.

Light lunch provided on the flight.

On board the boat. Three course plated meal.

Day 8 Luang Prabang, Alms Giving, Morning Market, Wat Xieng Thong Luang Prabang

After breakfast, we embark on a walking discovery of Luang Prabang town. This town is unique as it dotted with temples and lies on the confluence of the Mekong River and the Nam Khan river. The morning discovery, takes you through the small town, exploring the architecture and the way of life. End the walk at Wat Xieng Thong, one of the most important Lao monasteries and a significant monument to the spirit of religion, royalty and traditional art. The temple complex has over twenty structures including a sim, shrines, pavilions and residences. It was built from 1559-1560 by the Lao King Setthathirath and was a royal temple where the Lao kings were crowned until 1975, when the monarchy was dissolved in Laos. The temple is a good representation of typical Lao art and craft.

After lunch we return to the boat and participate in a safety drill before beginning our cruise on the Mekong River. Later in the afternoon, we join the cruise director for a talk on the plight of Asian Elephant.

At leisure.

Before breakfast, we walk into town to witness a very traditional part of Lao culture, Tak Baht. Observe the devout Buddhists giving alms to monks as they make their daily procession along the streets. Hundreds of Monks from different temples will walk through the city in their daily ritual of collecting alms for their meals. Afterwards, we explore the morning market before returning to the Mekong Sun for a buffet breakfast.

At a local restaurant. Laos food served family-style.

Captain's Welcome Dinner on the sundeck.

Day 9 Village Visit, Elephant Experience, Pak Ou Caves Mekong River

Getting off and on smaller boats. There are around 220 steps to the first and second set of caves to see all the Buddha images.

Embark on a small local boat up the Mekong River to Pak Ou Village. Here we can watch and feed the Asian Elephants in the village. We return to our boat and cross the river to Pak Ou Caves.These caves house thousands of votive Buddha statues left by pilgrims. We take a short walk through the forest to visit a traditional Laotian village. In the village, you see how the villagers make Lao-Lao - a traditional local rice liqueur.

We cruise down the scenic Mekong River. Later in the afternoon we enjoy a talk on Laos, the country and its people.

At leisure.

Buffet on board the boat.

Buffet on board the boat.

On board the boat.

Day 10 Wild Nature Along the Mighty Mekong Mekong River

The boat cruises further along the Mekong River, passing impressive landscapes and awe inspiring rock formations. This morning we visit a local village school that is supported by the Mekong River Cruise fleet. Here we meet the local school children and learn a bit about the education system in Laos (school visit subject to holidays and exam schedules).

Further along the Mekong, the boat stops at a sandbank for the evening.

At leisure.

Buffet on board the boat.

Buffet on board the boat.

On board the boat.

Day 11 Kuang Si Waterfall, Luang Prabang, Baci Ceremony Luang Prabang

The boat continues cruising towards Luang Prabang. We stop at a village and board a minivan to visit Kuang Si Waterfall. This is a great place to see some locals enjoying time with their families. We return to the boat by minivan.

We arrive back in Luang Prabang with some free time before dinner to further explore this amazing town.

Participate in a traditional Laos Baci Ceremony that serves as a farewell (or welcome) ceremony giving you good wishes for your journey ahead.

Buffet on board the boat.

Buffet on board the boat.

'Farewell Dinner' on board the boat.

Day 12 Disembark Boat, Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia Siem Reap

Flight time from Luang Prabang, Laos, to Siem Reap, Cambodia, is approximately 1 ½ hours.

This morning we disembark the boat and transfer to the airport for our flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Upon arrival in Siem Reap, we transfer to our program hotel. After checking in, we join our local guide for a quick orientation to Siem Reap and Cambodia. Afterwards, we watch a film about Cambodia's history in the hotel meeting room.

At leisure.

Buffet on board the boat.

Light lunch provided on the flight.

At the hotel. Bottled water, coffee & tea included; additional beverages available for purchase.

Day 13 Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Free Time, Apsara Dance Siem Reap

Walking 2-3 miles on uneven surfaces with many steps, some without railings.

Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Angkor Wat as it is silhouetted in the sky during sunrise. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century. As the best-preserved temple at the site, Angkor Wat, is the only temple to have remained a significant religious centre since its foundation is Hindu - dedicated to the god Vishnu - then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. We return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast we explore Angkor Thom, the last and most enduring capital city of the Khmer empire. Established in the late twelfth century by King Jayavarman VII, at the center of the city is the mesmerizing temple of Bayon.

After lunch we have free time to explore Siem Reap, or simply relax at the hotel. In the late afternoon/early evening, we gather once more in the hotel meeting room to watch the movie "The Flute Player".

Enjoy an Apsara Dance performance by a group of local artists that are working to preserve traditional Cambodian classical arts. As evidenced in part by the innumerable apsaras (celestial dancers) that adorn the walls of Angkorian and pre-Angkorian temples, this dance has been a part of Khmer culture for more than a millennium.

At the hotel.

At a local restaurant.

At a local restaurant. Bottled water, coffee & tea included; additional beverages available for purchase.

Day 14 Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei, Landmine Museum Siem Reap

Early morning departure by motorcouch to visit Ta Prohm temple (approximately 7 miles/20 minutes drive), then walking around 1½ miles on flat dirt paths through forest to reach Ta Prohm. Motorcoach transfer from Ta Prohm to Banteay Srei temple (approximately 16 miles/45 minutes drive) then walking around ½ mile. Visiting Banteay Srei can be very hot as there is very little shade.

We have an early start to visit Ta Prohm temple in Siem Reap Province before the crowds get there. Built at the height of the Khmer Empire by Jayavarman VII as a Buddhist monastery and center of learning, Ta Prohm has a traditional Khmer structure consisting of a series of gradually smaller enclosures, the largest of which is about 1000 by 650 meters (3,300 x 2,100 feet). The sanctuary is centered around the huge, elevated stone face of Prajnaparamita, the personification of wisdom, whose features were modeled after those of the king's mother. Ta Prohm's popularity has soared in recent years along with the rest of the Angkor complex, but especially because of its appearance in the movie "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider." We continue to Banteay Srei - the Citadel of Women - a pink, sandstone temple built in the latter half of the 10th century by Rajendravarman II and Jayavaraman V.

Explore the Landmine Museum and learn about the landmine issues in Cambodia. We return to the hotel in Siem Reap by coach.

Say farewell to new Road Scholar friends and pack and prepare for departures tomorrow. The Group Leader will discuss transfers to the airport.

At the hotel.

At a traditional Khmer style house in an open-air setting with fan.

'Farewell Dinner' featuring local cuisine with bottled water, coffee & tea included; additional beverages available for purchase.

Day 15 Program Concludes, Departures Home In Flight

Hotel check-out at 12:00noon.

If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on another rewarding program in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and Instagram feed to share photos of our program. Best wishes for all your journeys!

Hotel buffet. Program concludes.