Meet your guide at your hotel and set off to explore the historic and charming heritage of Luang Prabang. Travel by car to begin your journey at the most popular of temples – Wat Xieng Thong. This 500-year-old temple serves as the best example of the classic Luang Prabang style. You will also visit nearby Wat Mai and Wat Sene, affecting Buddhist temples. From here, explore local and interesting side streets, passing through back alleys and temples in a city that seems to have been designed with slow travel in mind. This morning walk allows you to soak up the ambiance and appreciate the hidden charms of Luang Prabang while your guide chats with you and locals, asking and answering questions of interest as you wind through the town. Continue wandering the peninsula, stopping at temples and other sites as you wish. Be sure to visit the National Museum, the former Royal Palace. Relics from Laos’ royalist past remain here and should not be missed on your visit. Overlooking the palace is Phousi Mountain; it is said that those who do not climb the 328 steps up have not really made it to the city. If you are able and inclined, venture up the hill to be rewarded with remarkable views of the region. But save some energy – the day is just beginning. Next, you’ll travel south to the Kuang Si Waterfall by Tuk Tuk, stopping along the way to visit the Living Crafts Center, a place where you will see how textiles are made and meet weavers who keep these traditions alive. At the falls, crystal waters cascade into idyllic turquoise pools; a bathing suit is highly recommended as few find places as idyllic to take a dip. Also take time to visit the nearby Sunbear Refuge to learn about poaching. It is frustrating, but here you’ll learn how the hunting of these endangered creatures threatens their very existence. On the way back to the town, stop to visit the Buffalo Dairy Farm, known for their sustainable approach to local farming. An excellent way to finish your day and more than family-oriented fun, it is an educational experience. After a hands-on tour of the farms that will surely result in stories to bring home, relax in the café and enjoy the cake of the day served with ice cream and tea or coffee before heading back to your hotel.

Overnight at the 3 Nagas Luang Prabang, MGallery by Sofitel

The bells of the town’s monasteries toll at dawn when lines of monks emerge to receive their morning rice from the townspeople. Wake up early this morning and enjoy some hot tea and cookies. Shortly after, set out to respectfully witness this sacred ritual typical of old Laos: long lines of barefoot monks weaving through the streets on their alms rounds. This will be in a village out of town where rarely any tourists are seen. Here you will have the opportunity to witness an authentic almsgiving ceremony. You will be supplied with alms you can offer to the monks. Afterwards, visit the Morning Market and see an array of meats, vegetables and spices the locals use in their cooking, then return to your hotel for a well-earned breakfast. 

Please note: If you wish to take photographs, please ensure they does not interfere with this highly revered ritual. It is recommended, out of respect, to appreciate the experience without taking photographs.

Late this afternoon, meet your guide and take a Tuk-Tuk to Tha Heua Mai pier, 

where your private boat will be waiting. Red wine, ice-cold Beer Lao and soft drinks are free-flowing as you depart from Luang Prabang and follow the Mekong River upstream towards the confluence of Nam Khan. Along the way you will have the chance to observe the many villages and communities of Luang Prabang. Cross the Mekong River to the other side of the river to visit Wat Long Khoun and to walk to Wat Chomphet. After, return to your boat and float down the Mekong River with the sunset offering a gorgeous golden backdrop. Before long, you’ll arrive at the pier and meet your awaiting vehicle and professional driver for the return transfer to your hotel.

Overnight at the 3 Nagas Luang Prabang, MGallery by Sofitel

You will be privately transferred between the airport and your accommodations by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide.

Board a flight in Luang Prabang, Laos, with service to Hanoi, Vietnam. Approximate flight duration is one hour.

Welcome to Vietnam! Please note: Your travel documents contain a Visa-on-Arrival letter (unless otherwise arranged). Please ensure to pack this in your carry-on luggage. Your Visa-on-Arrival letter must be presented to Customs upon entry into the country. 

Upon arrival to Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport you will be welcomed by a hostess holding a sign with your name on it. This hostess will guide you through fast-track security services and, after you obtain a stamp for your Visa and have collected your luggage, will lead the way to your awaiting guide and vehicle.

You will be privately transferred between your accommodations and Hanoi Airport by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide.

Overnight at La Siesta Premium Hang Be

Hanoi enjoys a rich Imperial history dating back over a millennium, and a surprising diversity of local ethnic groups weave the fabric of the city’s rich tapestry. Start your day on the outskirts of the city with your private driver and English-speaking guide by visiting the Museum of Ethnology. The museum provides an insightful glimpse into the country’s lengthy history, with more than 15,000 photos and 10,000 objects and artifacts depicting a historical perspective of the lives, activities, customs, and habits of the 54 recognized ethnic groups of Vietnam. Drive back into central Hanoi to the Temple of Literature, built in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius. From here, continue to Bun Cha Huong Lien, the famous local spot where President Barack Obama dined with Anthony Bourdain.

After lunch, visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex and Ba Dinh Square, an important point of pilgrimage for many Vietnamese. The area surrounding the complex is a traffic-free zone filled with botanical gardens, monuments, memorials and pagodas, and includes the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (outside), Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh Museum and the One Pillar Pagoda. Travel back in time to the nearby simple cottage on stilts where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked during his humble beginnings as a revolutionary. Walk a few blocks out of the Ho Chi Minh Complex to the 11th century Buddhist One Pillar Pagoda, an elegant construction rising from the center of a square-shaped lotus pond on a solitary pillar. Continue to Ngoc Son Temple, a pagoda situated on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake accessible by a classically painted wooden bridge. The view of the city from the pagoda is particularly popular.

End your day by walking through the iconic Old Quarter. The streets of this district are bustling with scooters, bicycles, cyclos, and cars zipping around pedestrians. The best way to enjoy the charming colonial architecture is to wander with your guide at a leisurely pace and be sure to stop for a cup of Vietnamese coffee or a local snack from one of the many tantalizing street vendors. Your guide and private driver will accompany you back to your hotel, or if you prefer to enjoy dinner at your pace in the Old Quarter and soak up the atmosphere, you can make your own way back to your hotel at your leisure.

Overnight at La Siesta Premium Hang Be

You will be privately transferred from Hanoi to Halong Bay by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide. Approximate travel time is three hours.

Welcome aboard!

Take some time to get settled in to your stateroom, and to explore the length of your ship. You'll be welcomed aboard by the captain and crew with a Welcome Cocktail in the lobby. Your cruise adventure will begin shortly.

With kayaks provided by the ship, set out for some independent kayaking in the calm waters of Halong Bay, spotting traditional floating houses as you explore the beauty of Halong's iconic limestone caves up close and personal. Reboard the ship and take part in some drone photography on the expansive sun deck.

As the sun begins to set, admire the picturesque views from the Sun Deck, while the crew hosts a sunset party for the guests. Afterward, join a cooking demonstration to learn how you can make one of Vietnam's renowned traditional dishes - the spring roll. Watch carefully as the chef introduces which ingredients are needed, and the process how to create the roll, allowing you to recreate this appetizer at home. Later, opt to partake in Happy Hour, a great opportunity to socialize with your fellow cruisemates.

Overnight on the Elite of the Seas Cruise

Wake up to the gentle lapping of the water against the boat and as the first rays of the sun announce a new day. Before sitting down to the delectable breakfast, join the crew on the sundeck to kickstart your day in the invigorating outdoors, rejuvenating your energy levels and setting a vibrant tone for the rest of your day. Enjoy a mini golf lesson at the front of the second deck. The mini-golf course stands as a serene and relaxing space, where guests have the opportunity to utilize the onboard golf clubs for practice or engage in a game of holes with their companions. Next the skilled Tai chi master will lead you through a beginner-friendly session, thoughtfully streamlined to ensure accessibility for all participants. Tai chi stands out as a highly effective method for alleviating stress and fatigue. 

Set out aboard a charming local rowing boat to marvel at the Dark & Bright Cave - a mystical passage bridging the realms of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. This incredible cave system can only be explored by rowing boat, allowing you to get up close to the stunning rock formations jutting out of the water. Glide through cerulean waters venturing deep into a realm where nature's artistry flourishes. Gaze in awe at the majestic rock formations emerging from the glistening expanse, their grandeur magnified as you draw nearer. 

Bid farewell to the crew and your fellow cruisemates as you disembark from your ship.

You will be privately transferred from Halong Bay to Hanoi by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide. Approximate travel time is three hours.

You will be privately transferred between your accommodations and Hanoi Airport by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide.

Board a flight from Hanoi with direct service to Danang. Approximate flight time is one hour and 20 minutes.

Enjoy a scenic transfer from Danang to Hoi An with a private vehicle and an English speaking guide. The transfer is approximately 40 minutes.

Overnight at Anantara Hoi An Resort

The historic and quaint Hoi An is perfect for exploring; As a former fishing village set on the banks of the Thu Bon River and strategic trading port for Southeast Asia, centuries of Chinese and Japanese influence have left their unique mark on this town. Your private driver and English-speaking guide will greet you at your hotel and bring you to the edge of the old town for a half-day of exploration. As the streets of the old town are very narrow, cars are not permitted in the historical center. Start with the 200-year-old Tamky House, a beautifully decorated home that has been lovingly preserved over seven generations. Continue on foot to the Museum of Trade Ceramics, with fascinating pottery artifacts from all over Asia and the Middle East. Take a short walk through the historic town to the 17th century Chinese Chua Ong Pagoda – the neighborhood around it has distinctly Chinese inspired buildings and is lovely to explore at a relaxed pace. End with a visit to the Hoi An Market, reputed to be one of Vietnam’s best. Fresh produce and fish are on offer, and this is also an opportune location to pick up some fine silk.

This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

Overnight at the Anantara Hoi An Resort

Hoi An’s rich culture includes an incredibly diverse and mouth-watering cuisine, with one of the best street food scenes in the world. The morning markets are particularly vibrant, as locals stop by their favorite food stalls on their way to work. This morning, your private driver and English-speaking guide will accompany you to the edge of the historic area of Hoi An old town. From here, continue on a walking tour around town to sample some of the delicacies and admire the quaint architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Focus on the unique local specialties, such as banh vac, a subtly-flavored shrimp dumpling topped with crispy onions, and banh bao, a steamed dumpling made with minced pork or chicken, onions, eggs and mushrooms with a distinctly Chinese dim sum influence. Sample the Japanese heritage that flavors the city with cao lau, a Japanese-style noodle dish seasoned with herbs, salad greens, and bean sprouts, and served with slices of roast pork. In total, 10 different dishes will be sampled while your guide shares anecdotes on food culture and local traditions. Rest assured, all food stalls and restaurants use carefully vetted sanitary cooking practices and fresh ingredients. Take a break from strolling the narrow alleyways for a much-needed foot massage – you won’t be hungry for lunch after all that nibbling, and the foot massage will replenish your energy for the afternoon.

Overnight at the Anantara Hoi An Resort

You will be privately transferred from Hoi An to Danang by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide. Approximate travel time is 40 minutes.

Board a flight from Danang with direct service to Ho Chi Minh City. Approximate flight time is one hour and 15 minutes.

You will be privately transferred between your accommodations and Ho Chi Minh Airport by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide. Head into the countryside near Ho Chi Minh City today to spend half a day exploring an incredible feat of perseverance and wartime engineering, the famed Cu Chi Tunnels. With your private driver and English-speaking guide, gain important insight into the prolonged struggle against invading armies, and appreciation for the resilience and spirit of the Vietnamese people. The residents of Cu Chi took the war underground into a highly developed network of tunnels that at its height stretched as far as Cambodia and included meeting rooms, kitchens and triage areas. Imperceptible from the ground, opposing armies could roll their tanks over the bunkers without causing damage to the tunnels below. Living conditions were harsh – in addition to fighting the war, residents battled food and oxygen scarcity, venomous insects, and cramped living quarters.

Overnight at the Hotel Des Arts Saigon

The mighty Mekong River is the lifeblood of Vietnam and its neighbors. Originating high up in the Tibetan plateau in China, it winds across Southeast Asia for over 2700 miles and reaches its Delta on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City. The Mekong Delta is a veritable biological treasure trove of unique species found nowhere else, the area is also integral to agricultural production in southern Vietnam. This morning, meet your guide in your hotel lobby and transfer to the Cai Be jetty together. Your crew welcomes you with cold towels and a refreshing drink while your Cai Be Princess sampan sets off for its leisurely cruise on the busy waterways. On the river, boat traffic is endless and the activity never ceases. From the comfort of your sampan observe life as it plays out on the riverbanks - the people, the stunning landscapes – while your attentive crew serves you tea and seasonal fruit.  We’ll make stops along the way to provide glimpses of local micro-industries: coconut candy and puffed rice (the local equivalent of popcorn), products that provide a living for the river people. Your cruise ends at Le Longanier Restaurant. Lunch is served in this exquisite colonial-style villa set in a lush tropical garden by the river, surrounded by fruit trees, giving you a sense of life during Indochinese times. After lunch, take a short walk along the nearby canal system towards the Ba Bon Bridge where your personal vehicle awaits to drive you back to Ho Chi Minh City.

You will be privately transferred between your accommodations and Ho Chi Minh Airport by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide.

Board a flight from Ho Chi Minh City with direct service to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Approximate flight time is one hour.

Upon arrival in Siem Reap, you will be welcomed by an escort who will be holding a signboard with your name on it. Your escort will assist you with the VISA on arrival application form (VISA fee included). Upon completion, your escort will then assist you to pick up your luggage and lead you through the arrivals gate where you will meet your guide.

You will be privately transferred between the airport and your hotel by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide.

Overnight at the Shinta Mani Angkor & Bensley Collection Villas

Today your private guide and driver, will show you a full day of historical adventures, as you're being whisked away to see the breathtaking architecture and natural setting of one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia. The different sites of Angkor cover around 250 square miles, including the forested areas. It features ruins dating back to a period between the 9th and 15th century, all sculpted in the distinctive Khmer style. As you approach the park, you will first see the South Gate of Angkor Thom. A walk along a half a mile trail past the walls that lead to a hidden temple is optional, but your guide will definitely ensure that you see the amazing temple areas of Bayon and Baphoun, as well as the Terrace of Elephants and Leper King. Take a break and have lunch back in town before you head over to the grey-stoned jungle temple of Ta Phrom. Here you enter a mysterious world, as tree stumps seem to grow out of the temple and roots crawl up its walls. For many people this is the highlight of Angkor. The most famous part of the park is, of course, Angkor Wat, known to visitors around the world. Finish the tour with a peaceful sunset at Srah Srang, as shades of violets, oranges, and pinks spread across the sky. This private tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, lunch, water, and towels.

This morning you will be picked up for a journey of discovery to witness rural life in the picturesque countryside, approximately 25 kilometers from Siem Reap and making a stop at a local fish market. Continue to Andong Pei village, a typical Khmer village surrounded by rice fields and sugar palms. Visit a local family specializing in making rice noodles and enjoy an exciting hands-on activity and make your own rice noodles. Enjoy lunch with your host family. Hop on the oxcart or Koyun (Khmer Tractor), take in the area of Khnar Pou Commune and enjoy a fun ride to the village or a remote temple called Prasat Banteay Ampil. You will be picked up by Remork (tuk-tuk) and delivered to the starting point of the tour. You’ll go past rice paddies, palm trees, ox-drawn carts and the odd ruin. A visit to a local family may also be included, which adds a unique personal touch to the whole excursion. Then after your tour, you will be transferred back to Siem Reap. This private tour includes Remok transfers, Ox-cart or Koyun, an English speaking guide, lunch with local family, entrance fees, water and cold towels.

Overnight at the Shinta Mani Angkor & Bensley Collection Villas

You will be privately transferred between the airport and your hotel by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide.