"The grand of Southeast Asia"

THE GRADE OF SOUTHEAST ASIA
24 DAYS – 23 NIGHTS


Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand, yet remarkably distinct, and the amalgam offers the traveler
unsurpassed richness and diversity. Each country hosts its own particular
abundance of cultural treasures, natural beauty and some of the most
kind, friendly people anywhere. On this trip you’ll pick the plums of this
fabulous region, gaining unusual insight into the different cultures through
engaging with the locals and superb interpretation by our tour leaders.
Visit the most important cities such as Luang Prabang, Hanoi, Hué and
Saigon, as well as many lesser known – but no less fascinating – places
such as Hoi An, My Son and Halong Bay. The journey culminates in a visit to
Angkor Wat, on par with the pyramids of Egypt as a grand monument to an
ancient civilization.
Finally, we visit Thailand where is the land of smile.

We’ve included some fascinating cultural experiences to make for a rich and
rewarding journey in the region: a traditional private baci welcoming ceremony
in Laos, a cruise on the Perfume River in Hué and a classical dance
performance and elephant ride at Angkor Wat. There will also be a few hikes
(optional) and gourmet cuisine.
Fabulous accommodations will be used throughout so that you may explore
Southeast Asia in style. Each property exudes a sense of drama and celebrity chic,
having been the scene of historic political, literary and personal events.



GLANCE OF VIETNAM

Hanoi – Halong bay – Hue – Hoian – Ho Chi Minh

DAY 1: ARRIVAL HANOI (D)

On arrival Noi Bai airport group will be met and transfer to Hanoi. If the time permits we will take a sight seeing tours in the city main historical attraction and an hour cyclo ride through out old quarter city of Hanoi.
O/N in Hanoi




DAY 2: HANOI – HALONG (B/L/D)

After breakfast this morning we are heading out for Halong Bay (carry overnight baggage). The route today, via Haiphong, will be our first opportunity to see rural Vietnam. We will arrive at Halong Bay in the early afternoon. Halong Bay, located in the Gulf of Tonkin, covers an area of 1500 square km. With more than a thousand limestone peaks soaring from its crystalline emerald water, this area is one of the natural wonders of Vietnam and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The islands are dotted with innumerable white sandy beaches and grottoes created by wind and waves.
On arrival at Halong Bay we board our Huong Hai Junk cruise (or, similar). The Huong Hai (Ocean Flavours') junks are unique, 'antique' accommodations that are scrupulously clean, fully-crewed and comfortable. Our junks are large and luxurious seven-cabin boats with private bath, air conditioning and fan, and plenty of deck space. An onboard chef prepares delicious, local seafood dishes.
After lunch on board we will cruise Dinh Huong Island, Ga Choi Island, Dog Island, Sail Island, and visit Sung Sot Cave, with a chance to swim at Titov Beach. We enjoy sunset and then dinner on board.
Overnight Junk cruise.


Day 3: HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/L/D)

Early this morning, after breakfast on board, we cruise to visit Manal Head Island, Tortoise Island, and visit Luon Cave by small bamboo boat, and Bai Tu Long Bay. We check out at around 10 am, enjoy an early lunch on board before disembarking and departing for Hanoi at around noon. After arriving in Hanoi at 4:00PM, we will enjoy this rest time with waterpuppet.

Overnight in Hanoi




DAY 4: HANOI – HUE (B/L/D)

This morning we will visit Ho Chi Minh complex area, Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, President Palace, House on stilts, one pillar pagoda, continuing our trip to visit first university of Vietnam temple of literature before transfer to airport for flight to Hue. On arrival Phu Bai airport transfer to Hue, this afternoon we will take a dragon boat on Perfume River to visit Tu Duc tomb, Thien Mu pagoda.

O/N in Hue.







DAY 5: HUE – HOIAN (B/L/D)


Hue citadel and forbidden cold not be missed this morning before drive to Hoian. This citadel was built since beginning of Nguyen Dynasty in Vietnam 1802 with well complex of city and Emperor Palace of Nguyen dynasty. Even many parts were destroyed during 1968 American war in Vietnam but it is really an impressive place to visit. After our short visit we continue to Hoian drive over Hai van pass for the best view of Vietnam ocean stopping at Lang Co beach, Marble Mountain. Arrive to Hoian check in hotel and the rest of the time free at leisure.

DAY 6: HOIAN – DANANG – HO CHI MINH (B/L/D)

This morning visit Hoian, Hoian museum, Phuc Kien Assembly hall, Tan Ky old house, Japanese Bridge and more before transfer to Danang airport for a flight to Ho Chi Minh. On arrival meet up and transfer to hotel. Rest of time group will be free at leisure.

O/N in Ho Chi Minh

DAY 7: HO CHI MINH – CU CHI TUNNELS DEPARTURES (B/L/D)

Today group will take a late flight for departure.
Morning visit Cu Chi tunnels, which was under ground system of Vietnamese during French and American war. Afternoon we visit Re-unification Palace, war museum, North Dame Cathedral and Saigon post office before transfer to airport for departure.





Amazing Cambodia
Phnom Penh - Siem Reap


DAY 7: PHNOM PENH - ARRIVAL (L/D)

On arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport -Visa processing- we will be welcome to the hotel. Wasting no time, during the half-day city tour, we will witness the National Museum of Khmer Arts, with its warm red terracotta and its gracefully curved roof topped by dozens of guardian nagas. Then we continue to the nearby Royal Palace, one of the most beautiful samples of Khmer palace, which allows us to visit the precious Throne Hall, Prasat Khemarin, Prasat Samrn Phirum, Hor Preah Khan, Chan Chhaya, and Silver Pagoda where the king regularly does the warship. We pass through the River Front Park whose scenery is much worth shooting, and continue to the only one hill in town with sacred sites called Wat Phnom before getting on a boat cruise along Mekong River bank to see the lovely Phnom Penh city at night with breathtaking view along the river. We have the dinner at the local restaurant.
Overnight in Phnom Penh.

DAY 8: ORIENTATION TOUR (B,L,D)

Today, we spend the morning visiting the unforgotten Toul Sleng Museum where is the largest center of detention and torture of Khmer Rough regime, and we continue to similar genocide scene of Cheung Ek Killing field. (Attention, both places could be of heartily horrific and depressing experience.) In the afternoon, city orientation tour includes Phnom Penh Municipality Hall, National Library, National Bank, Independence Monument and shopping at New Central Market where we find various kinds of souvenirs ranging from clothes to galleries, and then enjoy ourselves overnight in Phnom Penh city.
Overnight in Phnom Penh

DAY 9: PHNOM PENH – SIEM REAP (B,L,D)

In the morning, we get on the 1-hour flight to Siem Reap, the city of Ankor. The same morning we are on tour to Rolous Group temples including the 9th-century-erected Preah Ko temple, Bakheng, the largest and most complex temple of the Rolous group temples, and the four-brick-tower temple of Lo Lei. After the lunch break, we will head to Small Circuit to witness the Prasat Kravan (Cardamon sanctuary), where we will experience the stunning image of the eight-armed Vishnu in the largest central tower. Then we get going to Banteay Kdei, a massive Buddist temple with four concentric walls; Srah Srang (Royal Bath); Ta Prohm, which is best known for its originally ancient look. Next, we move to just east of Angkor Thom where stand the Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda that seem to be known as the twin temple; and to Takeo, the only temple never completed, and yet is one among the finest. Finally, we enjoy the dinner with both Khmer and foreign food and overnight in Siem Reap.

DAY 10: THE ANGKOR THOM & ANGKOR WAT (B/L/D)

In the early morning, we enjoy the view of sunset at Angkor Wat. Then we start our tour to the most popular South Gate of Angkor Thom’s before going to Angkor Thom(the temple) which was built by Angkor's greatest king, Jayavarman VII. The major attraction of Angkor Thom is the Bayon that is recognized to take the second place of attractive Angkorian sites after Ankor Wat. Then we go to Bapoun, which is one of the most spectacular of Ankor’s temples in its heyday; to Terrace of Leper King, the mysterious site to find out; and to Terrace of Elephants that once served as the base for the king’s grand audience hall for the public ceremonies. Now it is time to visit the World Seven Wonder, better known as Angkor Wat, which is considered the most important archaeological site in Southeast Asia. In the evening, comes the moment for the relaxing view sunset from the Phnom Bakheng Hill before dinning out with Khmer Traditional Dance Show and taking individual time overnight in town.
Overnight in Siem Reap

DAY 11: BANTEAY SREI & GRAND CIRCUIT (B/L/D)

Today in the early morning, we will view sunrise at Angkor Wat. There you will see the wonderful of spectrum sun rise on the top of the five peaks of Angkor Temple, breakfast at hotel. In the morning we continue to visit Banteay Srei (Citadel of the women) where is the most finest stone carving seen anywhere on the planet and then we will visit Kbal Spean (The river of a Thousand lingas).

Overnight in Siem Reap

DAY 12: TONLESAP - DEPARTURE (B/L)

In the morning, we are on a boat trip to Great Lake Tonle Sap, which is best known for its basin of fresh water fish (10 tons/ 1Square Km in the 60’s). Visitors may also view the fresh water exhibition where we can see various kinds of fish in Tonlesap Lake. We then continue to Les Artisans d’Angkor - Chantiers Ecole where visitors can observe students learning traditional carving and finishing techniques. Then we will enjoy the leisure time until the flight departure.




Classical Laos
Vientiane - Vang Vieng - Luang Prabang - Pak Ou


Day 12: Arrival Vientiane (D)

On arrival Wattay airport, you will be met and transferred to our centrally located hotel. After refreshment, we start visiting the major sights of the capital; including the oldest Wat Sisaket with thousands of miniature Buddha statues and the former royal temple of Wat PraKeo previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. On the way to the famous and sacred structure of That Luang stupa, we stop to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxai which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triomphe. Overnight in Vientiane

Day 13: Vientiane – Vang Vieng (B/L/D)


Heading out of the town, we travel by roads to Vang Vieng with stop over at the archeological sight of Vang Xang dating back from the 11th century. On arrival at Vang Vieng, we cross the Nam Song River, and then enjoy a short trek through the breathtaking mountain landscape to Tam None cave and some hill villages. Today ends with a spectacular view of the sunset over the Nam Song River.
Overnight in Vang Vieng








Day 14: Vang Vieng – Trekking (B/L/D)

After breakfast, we start our trek venturing into the surrounding area of Vang Vieng, which is famous for the beautiful limestone formations as well as the mysterious caves and cavern. Along the way, we visit the legendary cave of Tham Chang, the Ban NamKa village, the Tai Deang and the Souay hill tribe people. They are all friendly and welcoming. The remainder of the day is free for your own exploration of the town and strolling around the shopping area. Overnight in Vang Vieng

Day 15: Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang (B/L/D)

An early morning start to drive to Luang Prabang, which is perhaps the best preserved traditional city in Southeast Asia. The road conditions are very pool; how ever the unequalled scenery with a mixture of steep terraced fields and hill tribe villages make for an interesting journey. On arrival in Luang Prabang, we visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, the shrine of Wat Aham. We then climb up to the top of Phousi Hill for an enjoyable exploration of sacred, gilded stupa and a beautiful sunset view of the city and the Mekong River.
Overnight at Luang

Day 16: Luang Prabang – Pak Ou – Luang Prabang (B/L/D)

Today, we enjoy a short guided tour seeing the city’s oldest temple and the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong with its roof sweeping low to the ground, which represent the classical architecture of Luang Prabang temple. We then embark on a cruise upstream on the Mekong River which also gives us a beautiful view of the tranquil countryside as well as an interesting visit to the mysterious of Pak Ou caves, crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes. Along the way, we stop at the village of Ban Xang Hai, where they make the local rice wine. On return, we take a short drive to Ban Phanom, well known for its hand weaving.
Overnight in Luang Prabang


Day 17: Luang Prabang – Vientiane (B/L/D)

Visit the National Museum at the former Royal Palace, which displays a lovely collection of the artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the day of the early kings right through the last sovereign and the central market are not to be missed. We visit these sights this morning before we take a flight back to Vientiane. Upon arrival, we visit the major temples including the oldest Wat Sisaket with thousands of miniature Buddha Image. On the way to the famous, sacred structure of That Luang stupa, we stop to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxai Monument which is Vientiane’s own Arc de Triomphe.
Overnight in Vientiane

Day 18: Departure (B)

After breakfast, free for last minute shopping until time transfer to Wattay airport for departure.
Thailand Delight
Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Chiang Rai – Bangkok



Day 18: Arrival – Bangkok (D)
On arrival at Bangkok Airport, you are met and transferred to hotel. The glorious history of Thai Capital, Bangkok is much interwoven with the Chakri Dynasty which still reigns but no longer rules Thailand.
Checking in to the hotel and free to relax from jet-leg.




Day 19: Grand Palace – City Temples – Canals Tours (B/L/D)

Today we begin our tour of Bangkok with a long tail boat ride along the Chao Phraya River to see many lively inner canals which provide some fantastic views of the local life. Along the way we will stop over at Wat Arun, the temple of dawn, before continuing to the Grand Palace which dedicated to the Thai Royal Family’s ceremonies. Nearby is the magnificent Wat Phra Kaew, which is famous for the Emerald Buddha Image. After seeing this complex we will drive through the many vibrant streets of China Town to some of the most significant temples in Bangkok. The landmark of Wat Traimit is well known as the Golden Buddha Temple while Wat Po houses a gigantic Reclining Buddha.


Day 20: Bangkok–Chiang Mai–Doi Suthep–Sankamphaeng(B/L/D)
The journey northwards begins as we board a flight to Chiang Mai. After checking into hotel we drive west towards the famous Doi Suthep Mountain and embark on a walk leading us to Wat Prathat Temple near the summit. At an elevation of over 1,000 m , the temple grounds affords a panoramic view over the surrounding countryside. We follow this with a visit to the old and new parts of the town featuring the great diversity. The “Rose of the North”, Chiang Mai has been always noted for exquisite handicrafts whose the combination with the traditional wares of the hill tribe people offers fantastic shopping opportunities. We drive this afternoon to the neighboring villages of Sankampaeng and Borsarng to see the various cottages industries including silk weaving, wood carving, silver ware and umbrellas making.

Day 21: Chiang Mai – Metaeng Elephant Camp (B/L/D)
This morning you will be transfer to the Elephant camp at Mae Tang. Visit the Jungle Raft Elephant Camp in Mae Taeng, first to see the elephant shows. After the shows you will be an exciting ride on the elephants crossing the Mae Taeng river and up the hill. This last about 45 minutes. Then you will return by oxcart to the elephant village where lunch will be served. Rafting adventure starts from here and last for 45 minutes along the Mae Tang river. This place is relatively unspoiled. On wards to the Orchid Farm, here there are many beautiful of 500 species of orchid.

Day 22: Chiang Mai –Tha Ton – Long Necked – Golden Triangle – Maesai – Chiang Rai(B/L/D)
An early morning we travel by car northbound to the sleepy riverside town of Thaton on the banks of Mae Kok River. We arrive in Tha Ton and drive up the hill visit Tha Ton temple and view point of Tha Ton. Lunch at a local restaurant before we continue drive along the road near Myanmar borderline to visit Akha and Padong long necked, the hill tribe villages and next stop will be at hot spring. Then continue to a famous Golden Triangle in which powerful warlords have fought for control the opium trade. Then we drive to Mae Sai the norther most of Thailand to visit the trader’s point at Thailand – Myanmar border. We walk around this small town for shopping before return to Chiang Rai for overnight.

Day 23: Chiang Rai – Doi Tung – Bangkok (B/L/D)
After breakfast, tour to visit Royal Palace and Botanic Garden at Doi Tung, Doi Tung is the site of a major environmental and socio-economic development project initiated by Her Royal Highness Srinakarindra the Princess Mother; mother of His Majesty the King of Thailand. You can spend the time at the beautiful gardens. Lunch at a restaurant at Doi tung, before continue to the airport for afternoon flight return to Bangkok. Pick up and transfer to hotel. Overnight in Bangkok.

Day 24: Bangkok – Departure (B)
After breakfast, free day to explore the city on your own until time transfer to the airport or train station for your next destination

To contact this tour operator please use the contact form next to the map on the right.

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Price/Person: 4,857 DOL
Number of participants
Duration: Hours

Area: Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos
Accomodation is included in this tour: PACKAGE INCLUSIVE: • Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle with driver • Air fair : Hanoi – Hue, Danang – Ho Chi Minh, • Air fair : Ho Chi Minh - PhnomPenh – SiemReap – Bangkok • Air fair : SiemReap – Vientiane, Luang Prabang – Vientiane • Air fair : Vientiane – Bangkok • Air fair: Bangkok – Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai – Bangkok • Domestic airport tax • Accommodation: twin sharing room at mentioned hotel or similar one • Meal as mentioned • Entrance fee and Sightseeing as mentioned • Boat trip in Halong bay, Hue, Tonlesap Lake • English or French speaking guide • Service charge & Government tax PACKAGE EXCLUSIVE: • International airport tax • Visa Fees • Personal expenses, Tips, Drinks, Others meals and any others those than mentioned in itinerary. REMARKS:  All above itinerary is flexible, depending on arrival or departure flights of passengers.  Confirmation of room & price are subject to space availability at the time of booking only.  All rates are subject to change without prior notices.  All above itinerary is flexible, depending on arrival or departure flights of passengers  Ground operator reserved the right to amend or adjust itinerary to match with real situation  Total air fare is : 1050USD HOTELS CATEGORIES:  HOTELS IN VIETNAM City/Area First Class Superior Class Deluxe Class Hanoi Sunny hotel Sunway hotel Sofitel Plaza Halong Halong Spring Heritage Halong Halong Plaza Hue Ngoc Huong Huong Giang Saigon Morin Hoian Hoian hotel Hoian Beach Palm Garden HoChiMinh Saigon Palace Rex hotel Sofitel Plaza  HOTELS IN CAMBODIA City/Area First Class Superior Class Deluxe Class Phnom Penh Cara Hotel Cambodiana Hotel Raffle Le Royal Siem Reap AngkorHoliday Prince D’Angkor Sofitel  HOTELS IN LAOS City/Area First Class Superior Class Deluxe Class Vientiane Inter City Lao Plaza Settha Palace LuangPrabang Phousi Villa Santi Pansea Phouvao  HOTELS IN THAILAND City/Area First Class Superior Class Deluxe Class Bangkok Baiyoke Suites Silom Serene Davis Bangkok Chiang mai Raming Lodge Manathai Tamarind Village Chiang Rai Laluna Resort Wangcome Legend Chiang Rai

The Guide is able to understand this language also    
   german
   english
   french
   italian
   portuguese
   spanish

Special Hints: Buddhist cultures, art, tribal peoples, river cruise, ceremonies and performances, colonial architecture, archeological ruins of Angkor Wat, and the amazing Thailand, deluxe accommodations

edited at 18.12.06 | 05:36 AM
last update 18.12.06 | 09:50 AM

Guide details

Jonh

Web: To contact this tour operator please use the contact form above.
Phone Number: ---
Vita
Company located in Phnom Penh & Siem Reap is able to offer you the best tour & travel services. Her partners are based in Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand. We can help arrange everything for your trip to one of the world's top travel destinations. From a customized package to luxury travel itineraries and everything in between, we offer more than the average overseas travel company. In the past few years, travel to Cambodia has increased tremendously, making a travel tour company based in the countries contained in the isthmus important to the most popular and sought after areas for travelers. Bayon Heritage Travel & Tours is proud to be one of the leading travels Company in this region (and we are growing). We are here to offer you the best that a tour travel agency can offer.

edited at 18.12.06 | 04:47 AM
last update 24.12.06 | 10:58 AM

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