30 Days Indochina Discovery

Day 1: Bangkok

Today is arrival day so there are no activities planned. You are free to relax, explore the city & adjust to the frantic pace and humid heat of Bangkok.
Please arrive at our start point hotel before 6pm for an important group meeting where you will meet you Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and the other group members. Please look for a sign on the hotel's notice board for the time and location of your group meeting.
At this meeting you CEO will ask to sight your travel insurance, check that you have a visas for Vietnam and complete some other paper work. Please note that you MUST arrive on tour with your Vietnam visa. Please refer to the visa information section of these trip notes for more information on obtaining your Vietnamese visa.
After your meeting, you may choose to head out for an optional dinner to further get to know your CEO and fellow group members.

We spend this evening in Bangkok. Our hotel is located in China Town, next to the central train station and MRT (Subway), and is only a short USD2 taxi ride from Khao San road and the central shopping area of Siam Square, MBK, Siam Paragon, etc. All rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathroom. The hotel has a small pool and wifi is available at extra cost.

Days 2-3: Siem Reap/Angkor Wat (2B,1D)

After breakfast on day 2, we leave Bangkok and make way on the long journey to Siem Reap, Cambodia. It will take us approximately 4 hours to travel from Bangkok to the border. It is possible to get your Cambodian visa at the border - ask your CEO for details. Once at the border, we will disembark with our luggage and cross the border by foot. This process can take up to an hour or more so please pack your patience. After the border formalities are complete, we meet our Cambodian bus and continue on to Siem Reap. The scenery is spectacular and the contrast between Thailand and Cambodia is immediate.
Angkor, the former capital of the Khmer Kingdom, is one of the wonders of the archeological world. Rediscovered at the end of the last century by French explorers, this vast ruined city is becoming one of the most popular sites in South East Asia. You can purchase a day pass which will enable you to visit many of the highlights of this ancient capital, such as the magnificent temple of Angkor Wat, the enigmatic faces of Bayon within the walled city Angkor Thom and the much photographed temple of Ta Prohm which is slowly being re claimed by the jungle. Your group may wish to hire the services of a local guide who will very much add to your experience, showing you all the highlights of this ancient complex.
During your stay, you will enjoy a local Khmer dinner with your group, at a nearby village. Supported by G Adventures, this particular meal is kindly prepared and served by our local partners – Philar and New Hope for Cambodian Children. Philar has set up school teaching English to Cambodian children while New Hope for Cambodian Children - NHCC is the local charity organization that provides a comprehensive healthcare and education for vulnerable children and their families. The meal here has been voted the best meal in Cambodia by most of our passengers...and even better, the money for your meal is going directly back to supporting these local grass roots projects.

We spend two nights in Siem Reap. Our Hotel is located some 10 minutes walk from city center. The hotel lobby has 2 computers for guests to browse the internet. Free wifi is also available at no charge. All rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathroom.

Approx travel time:
Bangkok to Thai/Cambodian border, 4 hours by private transport.
Border crossing from Thailand to Cambodian border, 30 mins to 1 hour.
Cambodian border to Siem Reap, 3 hours by private transport.

Days 4-5: Phnom Penh (2B)

On day 4, we journey by local bus to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. After a brief walking orientation tour from your CEO, you are free to explore Phnom Penh. Sights you might choose to visit this afternoon include the National Museum and adjacent complex of the Silver Pagoda and Royal Palace.
After 1975, when Pol Pot and his henchmen took power, Cambodia was thrown into an abyss of unspeakable violence and mass-murder. Millions of Cambodians perished during this time. Witness to this genocide are the Killing fields of Choeung Ek and the Tuol Sleng prison. A Tuk Tuk can be hired locally to take you there, or your CEO can organise a bus and private guide for the group. You may also wish to explore town or go shopping at the famous Russian Market.
In the evening, there are many pleasant local restaurants where you can try some local specialties such as fish amok.

We overnight two nights in Phnom Penh. Our Hotel is centrally located, close to the riverfront. The hotel has free wifi. All rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathrooms. Phnom Penh can be confusing and we recommend to always keep a hotel card with you when you are exploring. Tuktuks (local transport) usually cost between 2-3 USD to anywhere in town.

Approx travel time:
Siem Reap to Phnom Penh is 6-7 hours by public bus. The bus has air-conditioning. It is best to prepare your earplugs ready for this journey if you are not a fan of loud Khmer pop music!

Days 6-7: Sihanoukville (B)

We travel by public bus to Cambodia's southern coast and the beaches of Sihanoukville. Time to relax on the white sand while perhaps enjoying a massage and eating fresh seafood, or why not join a boat trip for a day of snorkelling and lunch on an uninhabited island. In the evening, enjoy a barbeque on the beach before hitting one of the many fun bars to dance the night away.

We spend two nights in Sihanoukville. Our Hotel is only a two minute walk to the beach. The hotel has swimming pool, Free-Wifi available. Bar and pool table are also available. All rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathroom. Tuktuks (local motorised transport) usually costs 2-3 USD in and around town.

Approx travel time:
Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville is 4-5 hours by public bus. The bus will stop for a break after approximately 2.5 hours of travel. The bus has air-conditioning and public Karaoke. Best to bring out those earplugs again if you like to relax on your bus journeys!

Day 8: Mekong Delta

This morning we make our way to the Cambodia/Vietnam border. After driving for approximately 2 hours, we'll stop for a break in Kampot, an attractive riverside Cambodian town, well-known for the quality of its local pepper. It's approximately another 2 hours to reach the Vietnamese the border. The border crossing requires you to walk approx 150 meters on a flat road with your bags into Vietnam where our private bus will be waiting for us.
After completing the necessary formalities, we will continue on to Chau Doc (Vietnam), a 45 minute drive. We arrive mid afternoon with time to relax and adjust to the change of pace. You might choose to take trip up to Sam Mountain on motorbikes to watch the sunset, a boat trip through the fish farms, or a walk through the local market..all of which will give you a taste of life in the Mekong Delta.

Our Hotel is centrally located in Chau Doc town and is very convenient to explore the town, market or river front park by foot. Free wifi is available. All rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathroom.

Approx travel time:
Sihanoukville – Chau Doc is approx 5 hours by private bus.

Days: 9-10 Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast on day 9, we head to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) a journey which will take most of the day. This evening, why not head to one of the rooftop bars such as the Rex Hotel, one of the classic colonial Saigon institutions, where there is often live music.
Day 10 is free for you to explore. You may choose to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a complex network of tunnels 90 minutes from the city where the locals lived during the American War to keep safe. Perhaps visit the the immense Ben Thanh Market and grab a snack at one of its many food stands. Those with an interest in Vietnam's recent war history may like to visit the Reunification Palace, the residence of the presidents of South Vietnam before 1974, and the fascinating nearby War Remnants Museum. Also very interesting is Cholon, Saigon's Chinese quarter. A cyclo can take you to any of these places for a very reasonable price and is a fun way to travel around Ho Chi Minh City.
On the evening of day 10, we take an overnight train to Nha Trang, the first of 3 sleeper trains you will take in Vietnam. The sleeper trains throughout Vietnam are quite comfortable. Each cabin sleeps 4 people in 2 bunk beds. You will be able to lock the door from the inside. All bedding is provided. The train is air conditioned and has squat and Western style toilets with a wash basin at the end of each compartment. Bags can be stored in your cabin and accessed at anytime. Food and drinks are available for purchase on board. This is not to everyone's taste so we recommend you bring your own.

Our Saigon hotel is located in front of the city's main market, Ben Thanh Market, and very close to Saigon's backpackers street. All rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathroom. Wifi is available. A small swimming pool is also available on the second floor.

Approx Travel Time:
Chau Doc to Ho Chi Minh City, 7-8 hrs on a private bus. Toilet stops will be made around every 2 hours. A lunch stop is will also be made around 12-1 pm at a local restaurant. Overnight sleeper train from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang is 10 hrs.

Please note: As this is a combination trip, some of your tour members may depart in Ho Chi Minh City and you may be joined by some new travelling companions on Day 10.

Days 11-12: Nha Trang (B)

We arrive in Nha Trang in the morning with plenty of time for you to explore the local shops and markets, relax on the beach soaking up the sun or visit nearby historical sites. Optional activities in Nha Trang include a boat trip to nearby islands for snorkeling, or perhaps a fun filled all day beach party. On the evening of day 12 we take the second of our overnight trains in Vietnam to Danang.

Our hotel in Nha Trang is centrally located in town and everything is within walking distance. All rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathroom. Wifi is available.

Approx travel time:
Overnight sleeper train Nha Trang to Danang, 9-10 hrs. The train is air conditioned and has squat and Western style toilets and wash basins at the end of each compartment. Your bags are stored in your cabin and can be accessed at anytime.

Days 13-14: Hoi An (B)

From Danang, it is only short drive to the picturesque port town of Hoi An. Once known as Faifo, it was an important trading town with strong south Chinese influence and connections.
Take a self guided walking tour of this living museum whose main sights includes the Museum of History and Culture, the Tan Ky house, the Japanese bridge, the Fujian Assembly Hall and lunch at a riverside restaurant to sample some of the delicious local delicacies and fusion food at the restaurants for which Hoi An is becoming famous. This is a great place to sign up for a cooking class.
You might consider heading off on an optional bicycle tour to visit the beautiful countryside surrounding Hoi An.
Hoi An is a shopping mecca. Tailors can produce virtually any item of clothing you may wish for overnight at extremely reasonable prices, and silk lanterns, lacquer ware and many other crafts abound. It is also the centre of modern art in Vietnam. For sun worshipers, Cua Dai Beach is 4kms from town- a great flat bike ride away. Add in lots of fun bars into the mix and this really is a town that has it all and trust us, you'll have trouble tearing yourself away!

Our hotel is located approximately ten minutes walk from Hoi An downtown. All hotel rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathroom. The hotel also has swimming pool.

Approx Travel Time:
Danang to Hoi An, 45 minutes by private mini van.

Days 15-16: Hue (2B)

We continue our journey north to the city of Hue. A snack and toilet break will be taken approximately 1 hour into our ride at the Hai Van Pass where you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. When in Hue, options include visiting the former Royal Citadel, modeled on the Forbidden City in Beijing,and once the home to the Nguyen Emperors. Don't miss a visit to the seven tiered Tien Mu Pagoda and try to fit in a visit to at least one of the tombs of the former rulers of Vietnam, located here in the quiet countryside, all of which are like self contained mini palaces. A true highlight of Hue is the surrounding countryside and cycling is a great way to get out and experience this while checking out the sights.
On the late evening of Day 16 we will travel by sleeper train from Hue to Hanoi. Our hotel is centrally located in town and is very convenient to explore the city. All hotel rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning. The hotel has internet, with a computer available for passengers at the lobby.

Approx travel time:
Day 15, Hoi An to Hue, 4 hours on a private bus.
Day 16, Overnight sleeper train Hue to Hanoi, approximately 14 hours.

Day 17: Halong Bay/Bay Chai Harbour (L)

We arrive in the early morning to bustling Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. After meeting our local guide we transfer to a private bus and make our way to the beautiful and famous Halong Bay.
Thousands of islands rise dramatically from the waters of the Bay and, to further their beauty, intricate cave systems naturally exist throughout these limestone karst formations. Aboard a sailing junk we'll enjoy a seafood lunch and a visit to one of the islands and caves before transferring to the mainland for our overnight stay.

Our hotel is located on the Bay Chai beach front with great views of Halong Bay. Our hotel has internet in the lobby with one public computer being available for travelers. All hotel rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning.

Approx travel time:
Ha Noi to Halong Bay, approx 4 hours.

Days 18-19: Hanoi (2B)

After breakfast, we'll transfer back to Hanoi. Upon arrival some of your options include visits to the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu) or Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum and Museum. The Mausoleum houses the remains of Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of the unified Vietnam (closed October-November). Don't miss taking a walk through Hanoi's Old Quarter – a maze of streets, each one traditionally devoted to a different product or industry. Follow this up with a walk around nearby Hoan Kiem lake and see if you can spot one of the famous 100 year old turtles which may still live within its murky waters. In the evening you have an option to attend a performance at the famous Water Puppets and sample some of Hanoi's amazing eating venues. Ask your CEO to tell you about the local Northern delicacies.

Our hotel in Hanoi is located in the Old Quarter some 20 minutes walk to Hoan Kiem Lake, the centre of Hanoi. Make sure you grab the map and hotel card before you leave the hotel. All hotel rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathroom. Computer, wifi and internet cable are available.

Approx Travel Time:
Ha Long Bay to Ha Noi, approximately 4 hours.

Please note: As this is a combination trip, some of your tour members may depart in Hanoi and you may be joined by some new travelling companions for the Laos portion of your tour.

Day 20: Vientiane

This morning, a short flight takes us from Hanoi to Vientiane, the capital of Laos.
There is a wealth of cultural delights to discover - on foot, by bicycle or, for the less energetic, by tuk-tuk. Visit Laos' most important national monument, Phat That Luang, or meander down the dusty riverside tracks to find villages full of friendly children, dogs and chickens. A visit to Vientiane's vibrant, colorful morning market (which incidentally is open all day!) is worthwhile, to find plenty of local treasures. A great way to round off the day is to enjoy a spectacular sunset over the Mekong.

Our hotel is centrally located within walking distance of all the town's main sights. All hotel rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning, safe deposit box, and en suite bathrooms.

Approximate travel time:
Flight Hanoi to Vientiane is 1.25 hrs and transfer airport to our Vientiane hotel is 10 minutes.

Days 21-22: Vang Vieng (B)

A picturesque 3 hour drive north takes us to beautiful Vang Vieng. This quiet town is set along the Nam Song river amidst rice fields and limestone karsts. On Day 22 why not explore some of the caves by bicycle or take an invigorating walk. In the evening, soak in the natural beauty of Vang Vieng as the sun sets over the river.

Our hotel is centrally located. As the town itself is small, it is convenient to explore on foot. All hotel rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathrooms. Wifi is available.

Approximate travel time:
Vientiane to Vang Vieng, 3-4 hrs by private bus depending on the road condition and season.

Days 23-24: Luang Prabang (B)

This morning we travel from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang.
Luang Prabang has a magical feel about it. Nestled in the hills of northern Laos on the confluence of the Mekong and Khan Rivers, it is studded with ornate temples and French colonial architecture. A visit the Royal Palace Museum, which has remained untouched since the royal family departed in 1975, is sure to impress. Traditional to Laotian culture is to give daily alms to to monks. Monks are only allowed to eat food which has been donated to them before noon. On one of your mornings here, you will have the opportunity to rise with the sun, and watch one of the most important religious ceremonies in Lao. This is simply an unforgettable South East Asian experience.

Our hotel tonight is centrally located and convenient for exploring most of the tourist attractions in town by foot. All hotel rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathroom. Computer, wifi and internet cable are available.

Approx travel time:
Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang by private bus is approx 7 hrs crossing mountains on a winding road. The spectacular views make this overland trip well worth it. Lunch and toilet breaks will be made en route.

Day 25: Mekong River/Pakbeng (B)

We board our boat for the two day journey up the mighty Mekong River making our way to Chiang Khong. The journey is relaxed, as we experience the slow pace of village life and the breathtaking scenery along the river. Our private boat is reasonably comfortable and spacious. A toilet is available on board. Fruits, tea and coffee, are provided free of charge for you to enjoy and other drinks, such as water and soft drinks are all available for purchase on the boat. It can also be quite cold from November to February so make sure you have some warm gear packed.
We dock at the small town of Pak Beng to spend the night. The standard of accommodation in this trading port is basic but comfortable. All hotel rooms are double or twin share and have en suite bathroom.

Approx Travel Time:
Luang Prabang to Pak Beng approx 8 or 9 hours.

Day 26: Chiang Khong (B)

This morning we re-board our boat and contine our leisurely cruise up the river before arriving at the Laos/Thai border and crossing to Chiang Khong in the late afternoon.
Our hotel in Chiang Khong is located right on the riverfront of Mekong river. All hotel rooms are double or twin share with air conditioning and en suite bathroom. Wifi is available.

Approx travel time:
Pakbeng to Chiang Khong, (including border crossing at Huay Xai), approximately 9-10 hours.

Day 27: Chiang Mai

Departing Chiang Khong in the early morning, we drive to Chiang Mai where you have the afternoon free to explore this fascinating city, once the capital of the Kingdom of Lan.
Surrounded by rolling hills, Chiang Mai offers both pretty scenery and architecture. Enclosed by a moat and crumbling walls, the old city features great cafes, shops and accommodations. An important Buddhist centre since the 14th century, Chiang Mai is home to more than 300 temples. Many visitors come here to attend meditation retreats, massage classes or yoga lessons. It is also a centre of handicraft production, with a long history of silver work, woodcarving, pottery-making and weaving. Not to be missed is the Night Bazaar, a series of covered markets, shops and stalls that offer the best selection of handicrafts in Thailand.

Approx travel time:
Chiang Kong to Chiang Mai, five hours by private minivan.

Day 28: Chiang Mai/Overnight Train

Today, why not try your hand at local cuisine with a Thai cooking class, visit the magnificent temple of Doi Suthep standing watch over the city from the hills above, take a bicycle ride in the countryside or Embrace the Bizarre and get a massage from the training school at the local woman's prison!

Tonight we catch our final overnight train to Bangkok Tonight's accommodation is an overnight sleeper train. Bunks are dormitory style, with bunks on two layers along the side of the train carriage. There are curtains along each bunk for privacy. Your luggage is stored beside you. The train has air-conditioning and clean bedding is provided for each bunk. There are both western style and asian style toilets at the end of each carriage, with wash basins. Food and drinks are available on the train, but you may choose to bring your own snacks from the shop and restaurants around the train station.

Approx travel time:
Overnight train, Chiang Mai to Bangkok, approximately 12 hrs.

Day 29: Bangkok

We'll arrive early in the morning to Bangkok, Thailand's capital city. The day is free to explore the many sights of Bangkok. The Grand Palace, Wat Po, National Museum, and Jim Thompson's House are just a few suggestions. A trip along the Chao Praya river and through the canals (or klongs) gives you a different perspective of daily life in this busy city.
In the evening we'll say good bye and enjoy a Thai meal and perhaps a beer together to celebrate the end of an amazing journey.

Day 30: Bangkok (B)

You can depart at any time today. Please note that the hotel check out time is 12pm midday.
We look forward to receiving your evaluation regarding this tour itinerary and your CEO's performance. We value your input into what we could improve to make this trip even better and of course love hearing about what we are already doing well! You will be sent a post tour email on your return with details on how to go on line and fill in this simple form. Thank you so much in advance.