Indochina Essence: Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand 7 days

Kick off your first day in Hanoi with a walk-and-eat group trip. At around 17:30, our guide will meet you in front of Shinhan Bank at 14 Le Thai To Street, Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, and lead you through the maze of the Old Quarter. 

Although each tour may feature different specialties depending on the day and availability, you might sample traditional noodle soups such as Pho Bo (Vietnamese Beef Noodles), Bun Thang (Rice Vermicelli Noodles With Chicken And Eggs), or Bun Bo Hue.

You will also get to try quick servings like Banh Cuon (Steamed Rice Rolls) and Banh Mi (Vietnamese bread). For those who enjoy snacks on the street, options may be Nom Bo Kho (Dried Beef Salad) or Nem Chua Ran (Fried Fermented Pork Roll). To finish on a sweet note, you can have a cup of Ca Phe Trung (Egg Coffee) that is unlike anything else.

Note: If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, or food allergies, please let us know ahead of time so we can prepare accordingly. Dishes may vary by season.

Morning

After eating breakfast, please gather in the hotel lobby, where our guide will provide a brief orientation before we begin our exploration in the morning. First, you will start the day by learning about Vietnam's history at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, his house-on-stilts, and the Presidential Palace.

Next, you have the opportunity to see the unique One Pillar Pagoda. As the name suggests, it stands on one pillar in the middle of a lake covered by lotus flowers. Some traditional Vietnamese motifs, like two dragons flanking a moon, are embellished on the body, showcasing harmony and prosperity.

Then, you will proceed to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university. Established during the Ly dynasty, this historic site is dedicated to Confucius and serves as a symbol of the country’s long-standing reverence for education.

Once the tour concludes, you will go to a nearby restaurant to enjoy a lunch featuring authentic Vietnamese dishes.

Afternoon

After enjoying your morning, it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Upon arrival, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel, where you can relax and prepare for the adventures ahead in the land of ancient temples and vibrant culture.

Morning

After being picked up directly at your hotel, you will embark on a journey to Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire. Upon arrival, you will go to admire South Gate, known for the towering stone faces that welcome visitors with an air of mystery and grandeur.

Keep your day going at Bayon Temple, where a labyrinth of smiling stone faces and intricate bas-reliefs illustrates scenes of historical and spiritual significance, reflecting the untold story of Khmer culture.

Later on, the tour takes you to Elephant Terrace, an impressive platform previously used by kings for royal ceremonies and public audiences. Just a short walk away lies the Terrace of the Leper King, which is adorned with interesting carvings that are suitable for photoshoots.

Following that, you will spend some time immersing yourself in Ta Prohm, a temple famous for the massive tree roots intertwining with centuries-old stone walls.

Afternoon

The destination in the afternoon is Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Built in the 12th century, this architectural masterpiece is considered a pinnacle of classical Khmer art. Do not miss the chance to take a stroll through the galleries and marvel at incredible art that shares stories from Hindu epics and Khmer history. 

As the day winds down, we will take you back to your hotel for recovery.

In the morning or afternoon, you will be transferred to Kompong Phluk, located about 22 km from Siem Reap. This floating village is perched on stilts rising 8 to 10 m above the ground and represents a unique way of life shaped by the seasonal rhythms of the largest freshwater lake of Cambodia. The area is also praised for the expansive mangrove forests, which support hundreds of species of fish and birds.

When you arrive, you will notice old-style stilted houses stretching across the edge, home to approximately 3,000 Khmer villagers. These communities rely on fishing and tourism for their livelihoods, so you can gain insights into normal life on the water.

From there, you will get on a traditional wooden boat for a journey past the flooded forests of the Great Tonle Sap Lake, habitat of many bird species, to Kompong Phluk. 

After the tour, we will drive you back to your hotel, and you can enjoy the rest of your evening at leisure.

Morning

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight from Siem Reap to Bangkok. Upon arrival in Thailand’s bustling capital, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel for check-in and a short rest.

Evening

Around 19:00, our tour guide riding a tuk-tuk will meet you at the starting point on Phetchaburi Soi 10. This street is lined with food vendors and open-air eateries, and there are many chances that a variety of colorful and distinctive Thai dishes tempt you with their irresistible aromas.

After trying out several local street bites, your tuk-tuk will take you to Saphan Khao Market, a bustling wholesale fruit market where produce from across Thailand is on display. From there, the ride navigates Phra Athit Road, a local favorite for Bangkok-style Roti and spiced curries. You will also get to enjoy a dish at one of the city’s most famous Pad Thai restaurants.

The next attraction for the day is Wat Pho, which is best enjoyed under the night sky. This is when gold buildings sparkle gorgeously, bringing out the Reclining Buddha. To finish off the evening, the tuk-tuk makes a final stop at Pak Khlong Talat, Thailand’s largest flower market, which comes alive overnight with countless rows of blooms.

The tour is done at 23:00 with drop-off at Siam BTS Station.

Morning

Following breakfast, you will kick off your city tour with a visit to the Grand Royal Palace, the ceremonial heart of Thailand and a masterpiece of Thai architecture. Within the same complex is Wat Phra Kaew, housing the Statue of the Emerald Buddha, one of the most sacred religious icons in Thai culture.

Subsequently, you will head over to Wat Pho, where the Buddha rests in a hall adorned with intricate murals and golden details. Thereafter, you will make your way to Wat Traimit and see the Golden Buddha with your own eyes.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, you will board a long-tail boat for an excursion along the Chao Phraya River. This experience brings a unique perspective on the daily life of local communities living along waterways. Along the route, you will stop to approach Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, thanks to the spires and porcelain details glistening beautifully by the riverside.

After completing everything, you will return to the hotel and enjoy free time to relax at your own pace.

Morning

Start your day early with a scenic drive southwest of Bangkok to visit the unique Maeklong Railway Market, where vendors swiftly clear their stalls as trains pass through. Enjoy photo opportunities and try some local snacks. Continue to Damnoen Saduak, one of Thailand’s most iconic rural floating markets. Hop on a motorboat to explore its lively canals, where vendors sell fresh produce and local treats from traditional wooden boats.

Afternoon

After your visit, return to Bangkok. Later in the day, transfer to the airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable Southeast Asia journey.