Highlights of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos

Vientiane, located in the Mekong Valley, is the small, quiet and picturesque capital city of Laos. This friendly capital, studded with crumbling French mansions, bougainvillea-blooming streets and steaming noodle stalls will soon make you feel at home. Vientiane is also a place for passionate pedestrians - it can be easily and pleasantly explored on foot. This is a city full of surprises!

Discover the highlights of Vientiane, accompanied by a local insider guide. Start with a visit to the 19th century Wat Si Saket, which features Siamese-style architecture and thousands of Buddha miniatures. Next, drop by the former royal temple of Wat Haw Phra Kaew. It houses religious artifacts including ancient Buddhist manuscripts and Khmer stone steles. Continue up the grand Lane Xang Avenue to admire the Patuxai war monument, inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Its observation terrace affords fantastic panoramas of Vientiane. Make your way to the 16th century Pha That Luang, a large golden stupa and the national icon of Laos. Set in expansive grounds dotted with several smaller temples, this three-tiered structure houses ancient Khmer and Laos artifacts. Finally, step inside the Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise (COPE) Exhibition Centre. This non-profit organization highlights the issue of unexploded ordnance (UXO) that rained on Laos during the Vietnam War. (Duration: 3 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness level: Easy)

Champasak is a quaint and unique riverside province in southern Laos. This heritage town was a seat of royalty until recent times, and played witness to many historic battles. The town has been influenced by a variety of cultural and ethnic influences, and several stellar examples of French colonial architecture line the town's charming streets. Champasak remains an eclectic mix of the old world and the modern, as cars and motorbikes bikes jostle with bullock-drawn carts on its crowded roads. Champasak's chief attraction is the crumbling Khmer ruins of Wat Phu, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Explore the picturesque Bolaven Plateau, traveling from Champasak. Located high above the Mekong Valley, the plateau enjoys cooler temperatures. Bolaven Plateau is known for coffee plantations, tribal villages and dozens of beautiful waterfalls. Your first stop is Tad Fan, a twin chute waterfall located within the Dong Hua Sao National Park. Visit a coffee plantation nearby to taste a cup of the local brew. Continue to Pakxong, the coffee capital of Laos. Savor a traditional Lao lunch at a local restaurant, and head to Jhai Coffee House, the world's first completely philanthropic coffee roaster and cafe - it reinvests all profits back into the region. Later in the afternoon, visit a number of small villages. You can see a sacrificial altar at the Alak village of Ban Bong Neua, and learn why folks from the Katu village of Ban Kokphung have coffins under their houses! Finally, enjoy a swim at Tal Do waterfall, before dispersing. (Duration: Full Day; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy)

Luang Prabang is considered the jewel of Indochina, and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. This culturally chic regal city is surrounded by mountains and was formerly the capital of a kingdom by the same name and was then ruled by French colonialists in the 18th century. With the delicate scent of frangipani sweetening the air, today boasts a mixture of ancient red-roofed Buddhist temples and French colonial buildings that house guesthouses, street markets and antique shops. The saffron- clad monks that inhabit Luang Prabang, particularly during morning alms-giving ceremonies, create a colorful sight to an otherwise calm and alluring urban environment.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before you set off on a fascinating exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Begin your day at the Royal Palace Museum with its collection of antiques and period furniture. Travel along quiet alleyways to the century old Heuan Chan Heritage House, which is a rare surviving example of pre-colonial Lao style of architecture. Stroll around the museum and sip a glass of refreshing iced tea in the gardens. Walk over to the beautiful Wat Xieng Thong, one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in the country. Wander around the temple grounds as you take in views of the exquisitely crafted low sweeping roof of the temple. Saunter across the road to Wat Khili, an 18th century temple that now houses Buddhist archives, including a historic photo exhibit. In the early afternoon, make your way to the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center for an in-depth understanding of the ethnic heritage of the nation before heading out of town for a closer look at the weaving and textile traditions of Ban Xang Khong and Ban Xieng Lek villages. Return to town and stop by the unique Wat Visoun also known as the watermelon stupa due to its uniquely shaped dome. For your last stop of the day, pick from one of three options. Choose to climb up Mount Phousi located at the heart of the old town and enjoy panoramic views of the city as well as the mighty Mekong River topped off with a glorious sunset vista. Or, if walking is not your cup of tea, transfer to What Prabath Tai monastery and settle in to savor the spectacular sunset views over the river. Alternatively, head to the serene premises of the Wat Aham monastery where you can soak in the spiritual ambiance enhanced by the chants of monks engaged in their evening prayers. (Full Day; Time: 0930 hrs; Duration: 6 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy. Please note that the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center is closed on Mondays.)

Siem Reap is a most marvellous window to the world famous UNESCO World Heritage Site Angkor Temple complex, with its fascinating Khmer architecture in varying states of preservation. The city’s name literally translates to Defeat of Siam, referring to a century-old bloodbath that has been remembered in its thousands of bas relief stone carvings. Siem Reap was a mere village until the French discovered the temple in the 19th century, but today its center is incredibly modern, with riverside contemporary boutiques and spas, delicious eateries along French colonial cobbled streets, and the famous party goers’ Pub Street. Not far away is also Tonle Sap (the Great Lake).

Explore the ancient wonders of Khmer temples within the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap. Visit the temple of Ta Phrom, many parts of which have been taken over by the surrounding jungle, thus creating an eerie atmosphere. It was popularized by the Hollywood movie Tomb Raider. A short drive away is the 11th century Ta Keo, an unfinished mountain temple built completely out of sandstone. It has five sanctuaries on top that offer fantastic panoramas of the surroundings. Continue on to the sprawling walled city of Angkor Thom, highlighted by the mesmerizing Bayon temple, adorned with smiling faces, with maze tunnels. You can admire well-preserved intricate carvings at the Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King. Later, following a leisurely lunch break in your hotel, enter the rear gate of the famed 12th century Angkor Wat. Considered to be the world's largest religious building, this grand structure represents the universe with its central tower symbolizing Mount Meru. (Duration: Full Day; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy; Please wear comfortable walking shoes)

Hanoi has served as a capital city and the seat of government in Vietnam for over a thousand years. While this stimulating city is quickly transforming with modern skyscrapers rising up and beeping horns from its frenzied traffic, you can peel back its layers of history and discover a bubbling cauldron of French and Chinese influence. Explore exotic ancient monuments and remnants of colonial imperialism . In the passages of its Old Quarter, there are affable merchants to be found in night markets and at bustling street food stalls. Surrounded by lush green countryside, there is also a tranquil side to Hanoi, seen when city dwellers practice the ancient martial art of tai chi or as families sit on the pavement to slowly enjoy steaming bowls of pho (noodle soup). Located on the banks of Red River, you can enjoy a cooler climate than in the south.

Visit the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Ba Dinh Square. Vietnam's beloved leader, affectionately known as 'Bac Ho', rests here in a glass case. Drop by the One Pillar Pagoda next door. Originally from 1049, this unique wooden structure resembles a lotus blossom. Continue on to Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House, nestled amid the tranquil gardens of the Presidential Palace nearby. This modest house offers a glimpse into the life of Vietnam's founding father. Next, head to the 11th century Temple of Literature complex, and admire its well-preserved Vietnamese architecture. Here, five courtyards with manicured lawns are dotted with wells, bells, pavilions and Confucius altars. Later, at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, browse an extensive collection of traditional artefacts that showcase the rich diversity of Vietnam's 54 ethnic minorities. Later, in downtown Hanoi, take a cyclo tour of the Old Quarter. Learn about the history of its streets and trades, while exploring its back alleys highlighted by 'tube houses'! End the day with a North Vietnamese water puppet performance, a unique art form said to have originated from the flooded rice fields of the Red River Delta. Utilizing vibrant wooden puppets, the show depicts scenes from rural life, and episodes of national history set to music. (Duration: 8hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Meals Not included; Fitness Level: Easy; Please note that the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum will be from outside as they are every Monday & Fridays .Between September until December the Mausoleum remains opened only in the morning ; The Museum of Ethnology is closed on Mondays)

Halong Bay in the Gulf of Tonkins is a dazzling world. The name’s literal translation is the Bay of Descending Dragons, which perfectly encompasses the mysterious and mythical nature of its waters. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can witness the dense cluster of over 3,000 limestone islands as they rise spectacularly from the ocean. Several of the islands have grottos and caves, which boast spectacular stalactites and stalagmites and lead to secret freshwater lakes. Some islands, often named due to the interpretation of their unusual shapes, support floating villages that house local fishermen. With calm, crystal clear waters, coral reefs and beaches, you will understand why this is considered a most magnificent natural splendor. Geologically an extension of Halong but set in another province, Lan Ha Bay is just as beautiful as Halong Bay but far more isolated. Numerous aquatic animals inhabit these pristine waters and in addition, the bay offers several pristine white-sand beaches where you can soak up the sun. The ideal way to explore these magical destinations? Aboard a traditional junk!

The ancient Imperial Capital of Hue, lies at the mouth of the Perfume River and is considered the fulcrum of Vietnam's two rice baskets - the Red river delta and the Mekong delta. The city is bisected by the Song Huong, or Perfume River, named after a scented shrub that grows there. Hue makes a good base for exploring the Demilitarized Zone and is an important literary and cultural center.

Immerse yourself in the royal charm of Hue. Take a cyclo to the Imperial Citadel, within the protected Complex of Hue Monuments. Listen to historical events of this former royal court. Next door, at the Long An Palace, is the Museum of Royal Antiquities that showcases the life and style of the Nguyen Dynasty. Later, drive to the 17th century Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic seven-storied monument perched on a hilltop overlooking the Perfume River. In the afternoon, explore the hillside Khai Dinh Royal Tomb that has Vietnamese and European influences in its architecture. Past the carved and blackened exteriors, admire the intricate ceramic mosaics inside. Continue to the Tu Duc Royal Tomb that features pleasure pavilions, lakes, an island and a palace. Finally, ascend the Vong Canh hill to enjoy the sunset over a drink. Covered in pine forests, daisies and ancient relics, it offers panoramic vistas of the Perfume River and the lush mountains beyond. (Duration: 7hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Meals Not Included; Fitness Level: Easy)

Hoi An plays testament to its remarkable history as a major port town, booming with grand architecture of old Japanese merchant houses, pale yellow houses draped in bougainvillea, shopfronts lit with glowing silk lanterns, and ageing tea warehouses. Set alongside a charming river and to the backdrop of fisherwomen in conical hats, Hoi An is the epitome of a picture postcard, and unique in that it has no congestion or hullabaloo. This is in part due to Thu Bon River becoming silted in the 19th century, which prevented passage to trading ships, but also because cars are forbidden on its main roads. Motorcyclists rarely use their horns, unlike in the rest of Vietnam. With noteworthy culinary excellence you can expect the finest Vietnamese food. To top it off, the city also boasts its own pleasant beach.

Accompany your local expert through the narrow lanes of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hoi An, which served as a prosperous trading port from the 15th century to the 19th century. Stroll through the pedestrian-only streets of this well-preserved architectural heritage passing by various buildings, temples, merchant houses, and pagodas showcasing French, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences. Walk across the 400-year-old Japanese covered bridge over the stream as your guide narrates its history. Head on to the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation for a closer look at the intricate wood carvings on the walls and beams. Explore the vibrant local market, past stalls displaying colorful wares, spices, and exotic fruits, that is particularly famous for its locally produced silk and tailors who even have a section of the market dedicated to them. (Fixed Time: Yes; Time of Day: 0900/1400; Duration: 2 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy.The Hoi An entrance ticket is valid for entry to 5 sightseeing spots in Hoi An including merchant houses, the Japanese Covered Bridge, museums, pagodas and assembly halls for 24 hours. Please keep the entrance ticket with you at all times should you independently visit Hoi An later in the evening or on another day)

Ho Chi Minh City or HCMC, as it is affectionately called by citizens and travelers alike, is a city on the move. The dynamic energy of this pulsating Vietnamese capital has long since shot ahead of the tumultuous years of its former avatar – Saigon. Today, it’s the epicenter of Vietnam’s culture as well as its commerce and industry, offering a happy balance of tradition and modernity. Beautiful French colonial buildings and other historic landmarks lounge comfortably in the shadows of towering skyscrapers and glitzy malls. The intermingling of Saigon’s yesterday and today are reflected in its cosmopolitan citizens as well. Local women in traditional Vietnamese tunics stroll past trendy boutiques, while street stalls and high-end eateries dish out equally delicious food. Dive into the city’s electric nightlife and discover modern shopping paradises beautifully juxtaposed against traditional floating markets.