DTH Travel

18-Day Grand Indochina Classic

Journey through a grand multi-country adventure that seamlessly blends the elegance of imperial capitals, the rhythm of riverside life, and the timeless spirituality of Southeast Asia. From Hanoi’s vibrant backstreets to the ethereal temples of Angkor and the sacred caves of the Mekong, this is a sweeping cultural adventure through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos—crafted for curious minds, slow travelers, and seekers of deeper connection.

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An Overview of Your Adventure

DAY 1

– Arrive in Vietnam’s charming capital and transfer to your hotel in the heart of the Old Quarter.
– Meet your guide for a brief city orientation before taking a short walk to a bia hoi, a local street pub, where you can enjoy Hanoi’s traditional draft beer.
– Spend your evening at leisure, exploring Hanoi’s vibrant streets.

DAY 2

– Start your day with a walking adventure along the famous Hanoi railway, stopping at a reputable tea house to taste traditional lotus tea.
– Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, before walking past the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the revered leader rests.
– Stroll along the historic Citadel to Phan Dinh Phung, often called Hanoi’s most beautiful avenue.
– Take a seat on the sidewalk just like the locals do. Soak in the vibrant atmosphere while sipping your choice of iced lemon tea, Vietnamese coffee, or a refreshing Hanoi beer.
– Continue your walk to the bustling Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi’s largest covered market.
– Hop on an electric buggy for a unique sightseeing tour of the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake.

DAY 3

– Depart for Halong and Lan Ha Bays and embark on an overnight cruise through this UNESCO World Heritage site, famed for its emerald waters and towering limestone karsts.
– Sail into a less-traveled area, where you can unwind, sunbathe, and explore. The itinerary remains flexible, adapting to the season and weather conditions.
– As the sun sets, relax on the sundeck with an aperitif or take part in a cooking demonstration before enjoying a delightful dinner on board.

DAY 4

– Wake up at dawn and join a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, a perfect way to refresh both mind and body.
– Explore Halong and Lan Ha Bays with an excursion to one of its fascinating caves.
– Return to Hanoi and board a flight to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital.
– Check in at your hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure.

DAY 5

– Walk across the Purple Forbidden City, the former residence of the Emperors.
– Enjoy a fun traditional rickshaw ride through the streets of the Imperial City, once the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty.
– The ride further takes you beyond the walls to Kim Long Village, an ancient settlement where the Mandarins of the Emperors once lived.
– Savour Hue’s iconic bánh, a variety of traditional dumplings, at a charming family-run eatery that has been passed down for generations.
– Enjoy a scenic drive along the Hai Van Pass, offering breathtaking ocean and mountain views.
– Arrive in Hoi An, the enchanting lantern-lit town.

DAY 6

– Walk through the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, home to centuries-old houses and temples.
– Join a cooking class, starting with a visit to a local market before learning to prepare Vietnamese specialties at a charming farm on an island in the Thu Bon River.
– Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure—relax on the beach or explore more of the ancient town.

DAY 7

– Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon.
– Take a walking tour of the Central Post Office, the Continental Hotel, and the Opera or the City Hall, built during the French colonial era.

DAY 8

– Board a private boat and begin navigating the river, stopping at a local factory to observe traditional craftsmanship.
– Arrive at a remote island and enjoy a home-cooked lunch at a local guesthouse.
– Visit a honey-bee farm, then hop on bicycles for a ride along narrow island pathways.
– Stop at a local farm to discover the secrets of Sâm jelly and enjoy a tasting session.
– Transfer onto a small sampan and glide through a lush mangrove forest.
– Meet your driver and return to Ho Chi Minh City by late afternoon.

DAY 9

– Travel back in time with a visit to Saigon’s oldest café, serving locals since 1938—enjoy a refreshment before diving into the city’s rich culture.
– Stroll through a bustling street market in District 3, weaving between conical hats and street food vendors.
– Step into a chung cu, a working-class neighborhood unchanged since the 1960s, where towering old residential buildings tell stories of the past.
– Explore Ho Thi Ky, home to a spectacular flower market and a hidden gem for Khmer delicacies—sample a snack before continuing your journey.
– Venture deeper into District 10, a vibrant area where surprises await around every corner.
– Conclude your urban adventure at one of Saigon’s most famous street-food streets, the perfect place to indulge in a local lunch.
– Flight to Phnom Penh.

DAY 10

– Begin your morning with a visit to the Royal Palace, one of Phnom Penh’s most magnificent architectural landmarks.
– Explore its spectacular structures, including the Throne Hall, the Napoleon III Villa, and the Silver Pagoda.
– Continue to the National Museum, an architectural masterpiece preserving Khmer art and sculptures.
– Explore Wat Phnom, Phnom Penh’s namesake and the only hill in the city.
– Take in the serene atmosphere as locals visit to pray for good fortune and success, leaving offerings of jasmine garlands and bananas in gratitude.
– Conclude your tour by learning to cook traditional Khmer food.

DAY 11

– Transfer to Siem Reap by riding a shuttle bus.

DAY 12

– Begin the morning exploring early Angkorian temples from the 9th and 10th centuries, including Preah Ko, Bakong, and Lolei.
– In the afternoon, step into the grandeur of Angkor Thom, the final capital of the Khmer Empire, built in the 12th century:
– Conclude the day at Ta Prohm, the famed jungle temple left largely untouched, where ancient ruins intertwine with giant tree roots,

DAY 13

– Begin the morning with a journey north of Siem Reap to explore two remarkable 11th-century temples: Banteay Srei and Banteay Samre.
– In the afternoon, step into the grandeur of Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument.
– Take in the breathtaking sunset views as golden light washes over the intricate bas-reliefs and towering spires,

DAY 14

– Take a scenic flight to Luang Prabang, Laos.

DAY 15

– Hop on a tuk tuk to begin the day with a lively visit to Luang Prabang’s Morning Market, where locals shop for fresh produce and traditional delicacies.
– Explore the revered Wat Xieng Thong, one of Laos’ most stunning temples, known for its exquisite mosaics and gilded roofs.
– Stop by a renowned craft center along the Mekong River to meet artisans preserving ancient techniques in textiles and woodwork.
– Visit the former Royal Palace, now a National Museum, showcasing Laos’ royal heritage.
– Refresh at the hotel before hiking up Mount Phousi at sunset for panoramic views of the city.
– End the day with a leisurely stroll through the night market, where local handicrafts and souvenirs await.

DAY 16

– Board a traditional boat at Nava Mekong pier and set sail on a scenic Mekong River cruise.
– Stop at Ban Xang Hai Village, renowned for its centuries-old tradition of rice whisky distillation.
– Continue to the Pak Ou Caves, an awe-inspiring site where thousands of Buddha statues—left by pilgrims over generations—are nestled within limestone cliffs.
– Lunch on board, anchored in front of the stunning Pha Enn Cliff, a striking natural backdrop along the river.
– Return to Luang Prabang and visit Ban Phanom, a Lue ethnic minority village where locals have preserved traditional silk and cotton weaving techniques for generations.
– Drive to a local family home for a Baci ceremony, a deeply spiritual Lao ritual meant to call back good spirits and bring blessings.

DAY 17

– Depart from your hotel and journey into the countryside of Luang Prabang.
– Visit Hmong, Laoloum, and Khmu villages, where you’ll gain insight into the diverse ethnic cultures of Laos.
– Continue to Kuang Si Waterfalls, one of Laos’ most breathtaking natural wonders, or explore the scenic walking trails that wind through the surrounding jungle.
– Lunch by the waterfall, where you can soak in the serene atmosphere.
– Return to Luang Prabang and enjoy a free afternoon at your leisure. Wander through the charming old town, sip coffee along the Mekong or Nam Khan River, or simply relax and embrace the city’s peaceful ambiance.

DAY 18

– Enjoy a leisurely morning in Luang Prabang, soaking in the last moments of this charming UNESCO-listed town.
– Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Highlights of This Journey

A quick overview to make the most of your stay.

  • Three Countries, One Seamless Journey – A rich blend of Vietnam’s energy, Cambodia’s history, and Laos’ tranquility.
  • Breathtaking UNESCO Sites – Witness Angkor Wat at sunrise, sail through Halong and Lan Ha Bays, and explore Sukhothai.
  • Authentic Local Encounters – Experience a Baci ceremony, float through Mekong villages, and meet skilled artisans.

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