Adventures in Indochine
Vietnam & Cambodia Private Journey
The intriguing world of Indochine beckons, with centuries of fascinating history and culture. Encounter the surreal beauty of Halong Bay by sea kayak, explore on foot or by bike in charming Hoi An and the royal city of Hue. At journey’s end, discover the jungle-draped temples of mystical Angkor Wat.
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Itinerary-in-Brief
Days 1-2
Ancient Hanoi
This charming, thousand-year-old city is graced by leafy boulevards, lakes, and stately French colonial buildings. The Old Quarter, the city’s heart since the 15th century, is a fantastic warren of ancient streets and magnificent architecture. Explore on foot and by traditional cyclo-rickshaw.
Days 3-5
Kayaking the Emerald Waters of Halong Bay
So uniquely beautiful that it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, Halong Bay is a magical setting of thousands of sheer limestone islands jutting out of a jade-green sea. The islands create a natural barrier to the South China Sea and the bay’s calm waters offer fantastic sea kayaking and exploration of sea grottoes and deserted coves with white-sand beaches. Night kayaking amid bioluminescent plankton is a special treat here. Your accommodation is your own private sailing junk, staffed by a crew of three and a private chef. Your boat resembles the centuries-old Chinese style junk, built of teak and bassia wood with traditional red sails. Cabins have outward-facing windows, twin beds, fans, air-conditioning, and a private bath. The spacious dining room on deck has picture windows on both sides. No prior kayaking experience is necessary, and you can kayak as much or as little as you like. Your kayaking guide can lead you to intriguing spots like Bat Cave, a lake inside a deep cave, and Three Peach Island, a wonderful place for swimming. Return to Hanoi on Day 5.
Days 6-7
Traditional Hoi An
The picturesque riverside town of Hoi An, a trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries, has an enchanting Old Quarter full of mansions built by prosperous Japanese, Chinese, and European merchants. Enjoy a vivid sense of history as you walk the narrow streets, visiting houses, artisan workshops, and the bustling fish market along the quay. Optional biking with your guide offers delightful explorations around the countryside and coast. A support van accompanies you, always ready to offer a ride or a refreshing cold drink.
Days 8-10
Royal City of Hue
In Hue, Vietnam’s cultural and religious capital, explore the Royal Tombs, Imperial Citadel, and journey by boat on the Perfume River to the seven-story Thien Mu Pagoda. Biking options include a ride along the Tam Giang Lagoon, and through Hue’s historic back streets. On Day 10, explore vibrant Saigon.
Days 11-12
Angkor Wat, Lost City of Temples
Covered with intricate bas-reliefs and scattered across a tropical landscape, the royal city of Angkor Wat in Cambodia is a lasting testament to the glory of a bygone Khmer civilization. It is one of the wonders of the world, built between the 9th and 13th centuries to glorify a succession of Khmer kings. Explore this vast world of temples and enjoy a sunset climb up Phnom Bakheng for spectacular views.
Day 13
Depart
Optional Laos Extension
Enjoy a 3-day pre-trip extension to mountain-ringed Luang Prabang, a regal and intriguing town where ancient legends are written in gold relief on temple doors. In this World Heritage Site of shimmering royal shrines, visit fascinating hilltribe markets and silk-making villages and enjoy boat excursions along the Mekong River. Depart the third day for Hanoi to begin the main trip.
Tour
Costs
First Class Option
Land Cost: $3495 per person
Single Supplement: $795
Deluxe Option
Land Cost: $3995 per person
Single Supplement: $1125
Internal Airfare: $390 (subject to change)
Optional Laos Extension: from $795
*Prices valid through October 31, 2008
Includes all land transportation and private guides throughout
When
to Go
October through March
Route
Map
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