DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1 Depart U.S.
Fly overnight from the U.S. to Bangkok,losing one day en route as you cross theInternational Date Line over the Pacific.
Days 2-4 Hong Kong and fly to Bangkok
Day 2 Arrive Bangkok, Thailand
You will be met by your O.A.T. Trip Leader and transferred to our hotel to begin ourSoutheast Asia travel experience in Thailand. Here, you’ll be joined by travelers who tookour optional Burma & the Irrawaddy Riverpre-trip extension.
Day 3 Explore Bangkok
After breakfast, we’ll ride a boat down the iconic Chaophraya River and Bangkok NoiCanal. After, we’ll have lunch at a local restaurant.
Later, we’ll return to our hotel where you’llenjoy free time to explore Bangkok on your own. Perhaps you’ll take the Skytrain, a localtransit system, to the Jim Thompson House. Here, learn about the fascinating life of James Thompson—from his success as the founderof a silk-making company in Thailand to hismysterious disappearance in 1967.
This evening, we board a traditional woodenrice barge for a memorable Welcome Dinner. We’ll cruise past the Temple of the Dawnand the Grand Palace, both of which are spectacular by moonlight. After, we’ll havethe opportunity to travel back to our hotel likea local—via tuk-tuks (three-wheeled vehicles).
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Fly overnight from the U.S. to Bangkok,losing one day en route as you cross theInternational Date Line over the Pacific.
Days 2-4 Hong Kong and fly to Bangkok
Day 2 Arrive Bangkok, Thailand
You will be met by your O.A.T. Trip Leader and transferred to our hotel to begin ourSoutheast Asia travel experience in Thailand. Here, you’ll be joined by travelers who tookour optional Burma & the Irrawaddy Riverpre-trip extension.
Day 3 Explore Bangkok
After breakfast, we’ll ride a boat down the iconic Chaophraya River and Bangkok NoiCanal. After, we’ll have lunch at a local restaurant.
Later, we’ll return to our hotel where you’llenjoy free time to explore Bangkok on your own. Perhaps you’ll take the Skytrain, a localtransit system, to the Jim Thompson House. Here, learn about the fascinating life of James Thompson—from his success as the founderof a silk-making company in Thailand to hismysterious disappearance in 1967.
This evening, we board a traditional woodenrice barge for a memorable Welcome Dinner. We’ll cruise past the Temple of the Dawnand the Grand Palace, both of which are spectacular by moonlight. After, we’ll havethe opportunity to travel back to our hotel likea local—via tuk-tuks (three-wheeled vehicles).
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 Explore Bangkok • Optional Muay
Thai and the Oasis of Bangkok tour
After breakfast at our hotel, step into the Old Kingdom of Siam at the Grand Palaceof Thailand, a sprawling compound of ceremonial halls, gilded spires, and ornatebuildings. The ancient city’s de ning landmark since 1782, the palace becamethe centerpiece of a new Thai capital calledKrung Thep (“City of Angels”), known outside of Thailand as Bangkok. It was King Mongkut (or Rama IV) who ruled from this palace, expanded trade with the West, and was romanticized in the musical The Kingand I. Amid the grandeur of the palace, a surprisingly simple sculpture captures theattention of most Thai visitors: the 26-inch Emerald Buddha in the temple of Wat Phra Kaew. Carved out of jade, the gurine is so beloved by the Thais that the king himselfchanges its robes for each hot, rainy, and cool season.
After we’ll head back to the hotel and we’ll
set o for an orientation walk to a localrestaurant where we’ll enjoy lunch. Then, enjoy the afternoon at leisure, or you may
join us on our optional Muay Thai and the
Oasis of Bangkok tour. A full-contact sparringsport with roots in the 16th century, Muay Thai is a popular pastime in Thailand. Called“the art of eight limbs,” ghters use almost everything at their disposal— sts, elbows, knees, and shins—to level their opponent. We’ll depart our hotel to a gym in the Klong Toey area of Bangkok, and meet several youngcompetitors who come from cities and villagesall around Thailand. We’ll learn their stories,and about how Muay Thai has changed theirlives. We might also be able to witness amatch or two.
Thai and the Oasis of Bangkok tour
After breakfast at our hotel, step into the Old Kingdom of Siam at the Grand Palaceof Thailand, a sprawling compound of ceremonial halls, gilded spires, and ornatebuildings. The ancient city’s de ning landmark since 1782, the palace becamethe centerpiece of a new Thai capital calledKrung Thep (“City of Angels”), known outside of Thailand as Bangkok. It was King Mongkut (or Rama IV) who ruled from this palace, expanded trade with the West, and was romanticized in the musical The Kingand I. Amid the grandeur of the palace, a surprisingly simple sculpture captures theattention of most Thai visitors: the 26-inch Emerald Buddha in the temple of Wat Phra Kaew. Carved out of jade, the gurine is so beloved by the Thais that the king himselfchanges its robes for each hot, rainy, and cool season.
After we’ll head back to the hotel and we’ll
set o for an orientation walk to a localrestaurant where we’ll enjoy lunch. Then, enjoy the afternoon at leisure, or you may
join us on our optional Muay Thai and the
Oasis of Bangkok tour. A full-contact sparringsport with roots in the 16th century, Muay Thai is a popular pastime in Thailand. Called“the art of eight limbs,” ghters use almost everything at their disposal— sts, elbows, knees, and shins—to level their opponent. We’ll depart our hotel to a gym in the Klong Toey area of Bangkok, and meet several youngcompetitors who come from cities and villagesall around Thailand. We’ll learn their stories,and about how Muay Thai has changed theirlives. We might also be able to witness amatch or two.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call toll-free 1-800-955-1925
Later, we’ll ferry across the river to BangKrajao, a scenic, lush bike route often called Bangkok’s “green lung.” We’ll visit with local residents, then take a motorbike taxi to thecommunity center for a discussion about how residents are trying to save the reserve from development.
Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a massage session before dinner at the community center. Then, we return to our hotel to join the rest of
the group.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5 Explore Ayutthaya
After breakfast at our hotel, we visit theancient city of Ayutthaya, located about 50miles north of Bangkok. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was home to 33 kings from many di erent dynasties. The capital of Siam from 1353 to 1767, the city was once a placeof such fabulous wealth that early travelers described its “2,000 spires clad in gold.”While here, we’ll see Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, which served as Ayutthaya’sroyal temple for several centuries until 1767.
After working up an appetite, we’ll head tolunch at a local restaurant, stopping en routeto indulge in a traditional snack—roti sai
mai (Thai cotton candy). Then, we’ll return
to the hotel and the rest of the afternoon is
at leisure. You may want to escape the hustleand bustle of Bangkok, without actually leaving the city, by taking a stroll through the forest-like landscape of Lumpini Park. Dinneris on your own this evening.
Breakfast, Lunch
Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a massage session before dinner at the community center. Then, we return to our hotel to join the rest of
the group.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5 Explore Ayutthaya
After breakfast at our hotel, we visit theancient city of Ayutthaya, located about 50miles north of Bangkok. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was home to 33 kings from many di erent dynasties. The capital of Siam from 1353 to 1767, the city was once a placeof such fabulous wealth that early travelers described its “2,000 spires clad in gold.”While here, we’ll see Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, which served as Ayutthaya’sroyal temple for several centuries until 1767.
After working up an appetite, we’ll head tolunch at a local restaurant, stopping en routeto indulge in a traditional snack—roti sai
mai (Thai cotton candy). Then, we’ll return
to the hotel and the rest of the afternoon is
at leisure. You may want to escape the hustleand bustle of Bangkok, without actually leaving the city, by taking a stroll through the forest-like landscape of Lumpini Park. Dinneris on your own this evening.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6 Bangkok • Fly to
Luang Prabang, Laos
After breakfast at our hotel, we depart for
the airport for our ight to Luang Prabang,Laos. The ancient, royal capital of Laos,
Luang Prabang is located on a peninsulabetween the Mekong and Khan rivers with green mountains all around. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the quaintest towns in Southeast Asia.
Upon arrival in Luang Prabang, we’lltake a short bus ride. Since large coachesaren’t allowed in the inner city, we’ll
then use tuk-tuks, the local mode of
transport, and enjoy an included lunchalong the peaceful banks of the Khan River. After lunch, we’ll check into our hotel and have some time to explore at leisure. Set inspectacular scenery, Luang Prabang is famousfor the more than 30 active temples andhundreds of architectural treasures that residehere. It will be like a journey into the distant past as we mingle with monks and local people heading to market and going abouttheir daily business. You may choose to go
to Phousi Hill, in the center of the old town.Here, you can make the rigorous climb up
328 steps to the top of the hill where you can take in spectacular views of most of LuangPrabang. You’ll enjoy views of the Khan andMekong rivers, and if the weather obliges,enjoy a colorful sunset.
This evening, we’ll board a jumbo (a local mode of transportation similar to a tuk-tuk)and we’ll visit royal temple Wat Xieng Thong,the city’s oldest, before heading to a nightmarket. Then, we’ll have dinner at a localrestaurant.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Luang Prabang, Laos
After breakfast at our hotel, we depart for
the airport for our ight to Luang Prabang,Laos. The ancient, royal capital of Laos,
Luang Prabang is located on a peninsulabetween the Mekong and Khan rivers with green mountains all around. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the quaintest towns in Southeast Asia.
Upon arrival in Luang Prabang, we’lltake a short bus ride. Since large coachesaren’t allowed in the inner city, we’ll
then use tuk-tuks, the local mode of
transport, and enjoy an included lunchalong the peaceful banks of the Khan River. After lunch, we’ll check into our hotel and have some time to explore at leisure. Set inspectacular scenery, Luang Prabang is famousfor the more than 30 active temples andhundreds of architectural treasures that residehere. It will be like a journey into the distant past as we mingle with monks and local people heading to market and going abouttheir daily business. You may choose to go
to Phousi Hill, in the center of the old town.Here, you can make the rigorous climb up
328 steps to the top of the hill where you can take in spectacular views of most of LuangPrabang. You’ll enjoy views of the Khan andMekong rivers, and if the weather obliges,enjoy a colorful sunset.
This evening, we’ll board a jumbo (a local mode of transportation similar to a tuk-tuk)and we’ll visit royal temple Wat Xieng Thong,the city’s oldest, before heading to a nightmarket. Then, we’ll have dinner at a localrestaurant.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call toll-free 1-800-955-1925
Day 7 Cruise the Mekong River
• Explore Pak Ou Cave
We start our day on an excursion alongone of the longest rivers in the world. TheMekong River, or “mother of all rivers,”supports some 90 million people who produce 54,000 square miles of rice every year. Alsohome to more species of giant sh than anyother river, this majestic waterway is said to produce balls of light along its surface, which the locals attribute to the Phaya Naga, orMekong Dragons. Our Mekong cruise takes
us to Pak Ou Cave, lled with thousands of Buddha icons. On our way back to LuangPrabang, our small group will enjoy lunch aboard the boat.
A jumbo, the local mode of transportation that is similar to a tuk-tuk, takes us through Luang Prabang, back to the hotel. Enjoy some freetime before having dinner at a local restaurant this evening.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 Alms-giving ceremony • A Day in the Life of a local village
Today we rise very early to participate in anancient Buddhist tradition: alms-giving to local monks. In the quiet of early morning(around 6 a.m.), we watch as hundreds
of monks parade solemnly and single- lethrough the streets of Luang Prabang,collecting food o erings from the citizenswho, in turn, receive prayers for their families and friends. Dressed in traditional Lao orangerobes, the monks provide a sense of calm
and solemnity to the inhabitants of the cityeach morning. We’ll walk to a nearby temple with the monks and have a few minutes to ask them about their way of life before they sit down to their breakfast. Next, we’ll visit a nearby market where we’ll have typical
• Explore Pak Ou Cave
We start our day on an excursion alongone of the longest rivers in the world. TheMekong River, or “mother of all rivers,”supports some 90 million people who produce 54,000 square miles of rice every year. Alsohome to more species of giant sh than anyother river, this majestic waterway is said to produce balls of light along its surface, which the locals attribute to the Phaya Naga, orMekong Dragons. Our Mekong cruise takes
us to Pak Ou Cave, lled with thousands of Buddha icons. On our way back to LuangPrabang, our small group will enjoy lunch aboard the boat.
A jumbo, the local mode of transportation that is similar to a tuk-tuk, takes us through Luang Prabang, back to the hotel. Enjoy some freetime before having dinner at a local restaurant this evening.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 Alms-giving ceremony • A Day in the Life of a local village
Today we rise very early to participate in anancient Buddhist tradition: alms-giving to local monks. In the quiet of early morning(around 6 a.m.), we watch as hundreds
of monks parade solemnly and single- lethrough the streets of Luang Prabang,collecting food o erings from the citizenswho, in turn, receive prayers for their families and friends. Dressed in traditional Lao orangerobes, the monks provide a sense of calm
and solemnity to the inhabitants of the cityeach morning. We’ll walk to a nearby temple with the monks and have a few minutes to ask them about their way of life before they sit down to their breakfast. Next, we’ll visit a nearby market where we’ll have typical
Laotian breakfast foods for our own morning meal. We’ll also purchase ingredients to bring to our community-hosted lunch.
Then we set out to experience A Day in the Life of a local village, where we’ll get to meet young students at a local elementary school, supported in part by Grand CircleFoundation—part of the World Classroominitiative. Our small group allows us toget a rsthand look at the daily routine ofthe school’s students and we’ll have theopportunity to ask the students and faculty any questions we may have. We’ll then walkto a nearby village of the Hmong hill tribe, an indigenous people of Laos’ northern highlands. Here, we’ll be welcomed inside the home of a local shaman. After a lively discussion with village leaders, we’ll enjoy
a community-hosted lunch which we helpto prepare.
We return to Luang Prabang, where you mayspend the rest of the day at leisure. Dinner is on your own this evening.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9 Fly to Vientiane •
Home-Hosted Dinner
We spend our nal morning in Luang Prabang exploring the Royal Palace Museum, which was built from 1904-1909 during the reign
of King Sisavang Vong and served as hispalace. Today it is a museum where you can see the royal throne and other artifacts. Thebuilding itself is a ne example of the French beaux-arts style and traditional Lao artwork. The ground oor of the museum is dividedinto several halls and rooms displaying giftsfrom other countries to the Lao kings andcollections of swords and Buddha images.
Then we set out to experience A Day in the Life of a local village, where we’ll get to meet young students at a local elementary school, supported in part by Grand CircleFoundation—part of the World Classroominitiative. Our small group allows us toget a rsthand look at the daily routine ofthe school’s students and we’ll have theopportunity to ask the students and faculty any questions we may have. We’ll then walkto a nearby village of the Hmong hill tribe, an indigenous people of Laos’ northern highlands. Here, we’ll be welcomed inside the home of a local shaman. After a lively discussion with village leaders, we’ll enjoy
a community-hosted lunch which we helpto prepare.
We return to Luang Prabang, where you mayspend the rest of the day at leisure. Dinner is on your own this evening.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9 Fly to Vientiane •
Home-Hosted Dinner
We spend our nal morning in Luang Prabang exploring the Royal Palace Museum, which was built from 1904-1909 during the reign
of King Sisavang Vong and served as hispalace. Today it is a museum where you can see the royal throne and other artifacts. Thebuilding itself is a ne example of the French beaux-arts style and traditional Lao artwork. The ground oor of the museum is dividedinto several halls and rooms displaying giftsfrom other countries to the Lao kings andcollections of swords and Buddha images.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call toll-free 1-800-955-1925
Then enjoy lunch on your own before we take a short ight to Vientiane, Laos’ easy-goingcapital. Despite its growing population, thecity still retains a small-town feel: Laundry dries in the sun on French-style balconies,and street vendors spread out their wares
on blankets and banana leaves. When wearrive in the capital this afternoon, we’lltake a brief orientation walk, perhapswitnessing group aerobics at King AnouvongPark. We’ll experience life in Vientiane thisevening as the guests of a local family for aHome-Hosted Dinner.
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10 Vientiane
We have breakfast at our hotel and then
set out to explore some of the famous city landmarks of Vientiane. Pronounced “Vieng Chan,” the capital of Laos is a slow-paced,friendly city of some 600,000 people. First,we’ll visit Wat Sisaket, the oldest Buddhistmonastery in Laos featuring more than
6,800 images of the seated Buddha in wood,stone, and bronze. Then, we depart for the golden-domed Phra That Luang (Great Sacred Stupa), a national symbol of Laos built in
the 16th century, and the imposing Patuxay Victory Gate Monument. We’ll have lunchtogether at a local restaurant, and then youare free to spend the afternoon exploringVientiane at your own pace.
Dinner is on your own this evening.
Breakfast, Lunch
on blankets and banana leaves. When wearrive in the capital this afternoon, we’lltake a brief orientation walk, perhapswitnessing group aerobics at King AnouvongPark. We’ll experience life in Vientiane thisevening as the guests of a local family for aHome-Hosted Dinner.
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10 Vientiane
We have breakfast at our hotel and then
set out to explore some of the famous city landmarks of Vientiane. Pronounced “Vieng Chan,” the capital of Laos is a slow-paced,friendly city of some 600,000 people. First,we’ll visit Wat Sisaket, the oldest Buddhistmonastery in Laos featuring more than
6,800 images of the seated Buddha in wood,stone, and bronze. Then, we depart for the golden-domed Phra That Luang (Great Sacred Stupa), a national symbol of Laos built in
the 16th century, and the imposing Patuxay Victory Gate Monument. We’ll have lunchtogether at a local restaurant, and then youare free to spend the afternoon exploringVientiane at your own pace.
Dinner is on your own this evening.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 11 Vientiane • Fly to Phnom
Penh, Cambodia • Champey
Academy of Arts visitAfter breakfast at the hotel, we head to
the airport for our ight to Phnom Penh,Cambodia. Upon arrival, we’ll visit theChampey Academy of Arts, an organizationthat preserves Khmer culture, where we’ll witness a dance performance by somechildren. We’ll then head to the hotel and check in, followed by some time at leisure. You may walk to Riverfront Park where you can stroll along the Tonle Sap River and experience the pulse of daily life.
Later, we’ll enjoy a ride in a remork (the Cambodian version of a tuk-tuk, athree-wheeled motor rickshaw) on our wayfrom the hotel to a local restaurant where we’ll have dinner.
Please note: The Champey Academy of Arts is closed Sundays and public holidays.
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 12 Phnom Penh • Visit Tuol
Sleng Prison Museum & Killing Fields
of Choeung Ek • Royal PalaceAfter breakfast, we visit the Tuol Sleng PrisonMuseum and the Killing Fields of ChoeungEk—both grim reminders of Cambodia’sbloody past under Pol Pot and the KhmerRouge. It is almost inconceivable to confrontthe nature of true evil here in this gentle land,but the Buddhist memorial at Choeung Ekcommemorates the 1.7 million victims of the1975-79 Pol Pot genocide. This execution siteis one of many throughout Cambodia.
After lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy sometime to relax. Perhaps you’ll visit the Elephant Bar at Ra es Hotel Le Royal where you can grab a drink and explore this fascinating
Penh, Cambodia • Champey
Academy of Arts visitAfter breakfast at the hotel, we head to
the airport for our ight to Phnom Penh,Cambodia. Upon arrival, we’ll visit theChampey Academy of Arts, an organizationthat preserves Khmer culture, where we’ll witness a dance performance by somechildren. We’ll then head to the hotel and check in, followed by some time at leisure. You may walk to Riverfront Park where you can stroll along the Tonle Sap River and experience the pulse of daily life.
Later, we’ll enjoy a ride in a remork (the Cambodian version of a tuk-tuk, athree-wheeled motor rickshaw) on our wayfrom the hotel to a local restaurant where we’ll have dinner.
Please note: The Champey Academy of Arts is closed Sundays and public holidays.
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 12 Phnom Penh • Visit Tuol
Sleng Prison Museum & Killing Fields
of Choeung Ek • Royal PalaceAfter breakfast, we visit the Tuol Sleng PrisonMuseum and the Killing Fields of ChoeungEk—both grim reminders of Cambodia’sbloody past under Pol Pot and the KhmerRouge. It is almost inconceivable to confrontthe nature of true evil here in this gentle land,but the Buddhist memorial at Choeung Ekcommemorates the 1.7 million victims of the1975-79 Pol Pot genocide. This execution siteis one of many throughout Cambodia.
After lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy sometime to relax. Perhaps you’ll visit the Elephant Bar at Ra es Hotel Le Royal where you can grab a drink and explore this fascinating
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call toll-free 1-800-955-1925
hotel. Built in the late 1920s, the hotel
was frequented by journalists and foreign diplomats—Jacqueline Kennedy even stayed here. After, we’ll visit the Royal Palace, homeof the present King Norodom Sihamoni. Thepalace was opened in 1870 and now contains the Royal Residence, the Throne Hall, and theSilver Pagoda (Wat Preah Keo Morokat), whichdraws its name from the more than 5,000silver tiles that cover its oor.
Dinner is on your own this evening.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 13 Phnom Penh • Siem Reap
This morning, we depart to Siem Reap,stopping along the way for lunch and for a visit to the Kompong Kdei bridge. Built around 1000 years ago, the structure holds its title as the world’s longest corbelled arch bridge.
We’ll arrive in Siem Reap this afternoon. We’ll have some time to relax at our hotel beforegathering for dinner at a local restaurant.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14 Tonle Sap Lake •
Optional Banteay Srei tour
This morning, we’ll go to Tonle Sap Lake, where our small group size allows us to travel like locals. We’ll take a bu alo-drawn cartand then get into a boat to visit the nearbyoating villages. After, we’ll enjoy lunch at alocal restaurant, followed by the afternoon atleisure. Perhaps you’ll explore the charming shops and cafes of Siem Reap. Tonight, dinnerwill be on your own.
Or, you may choose to join our optional tourthis afternoon to visit Banteay Srei, one of theoldest and most beautifully preserved temple sites in Cambodia. Built in AD 967, Banteay
was frequented by journalists and foreign diplomats—Jacqueline Kennedy even stayed here. After, we’ll visit the Royal Palace, homeof the present King Norodom Sihamoni. Thepalace was opened in 1870 and now contains the Royal Residence, the Throne Hall, and theSilver Pagoda (Wat Preah Keo Morokat), whichdraws its name from the more than 5,000silver tiles that cover its oor.
Dinner is on your own this evening.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 13 Phnom Penh • Siem Reap
This morning, we depart to Siem Reap,stopping along the way for lunch and for a visit to the Kompong Kdei bridge. Built around 1000 years ago, the structure holds its title as the world’s longest corbelled arch bridge.
We’ll arrive in Siem Reap this afternoon. We’ll have some time to relax at our hotel beforegathering for dinner at a local restaurant.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14 Tonle Sap Lake •
Optional Banteay Srei tour
This morning, we’ll go to Tonle Sap Lake, where our small group size allows us to travel like locals. We’ll take a bu alo-drawn cartand then get into a boat to visit the nearbyoating villages. After, we’ll enjoy lunch at alocal restaurant, followed by the afternoon atleisure. Perhaps you’ll explore the charming shops and cafes of Siem Reap. Tonight, dinnerwill be on your own.
Or, you may choose to join our optional tourthis afternoon to visit Banteay Srei, one of theoldest and most beautifully preserved temple sites in Cambodia. Built in AD 967, Banteay
Srei means “Citadel of Women,” and is recognized as a tribute to female beauty. This tour includes dinner and also o ers a glimpseinto the daily life of rural Cambodia, as westop to visit a Khmer noodle maker.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 15 Siem Reap • Explore
Angkor Wat temples
Today, we’ll venture into the heart of ancientAngkor, a holy city that took centuries to
build and whose scale is still breathtakingtoday—it sprawls across an area of roughly 96square miles. The Khmer Empire aristocratswho built the temples and monuments herebetween AD 800-1200 were motivated by theirHindu and Buddhist beliefs.
We’ll begin at Angkor Wat, a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. Angkor Wat is a large pyramid temple, built between 1113 and 1150,surrounded by a great moat 570 feet wide.Note the bas-relief carvings throughout
the temple, and take a moment to stand inthe courtyard of this temple whose towers represent Mount Meru, the center of all physical and spiritual universes and the home to many gods in Hindu and Buddhist mythologies.
After, we’ll visit the 12th-century Bayonwhere we’ll be welcomed by over 200 smiling faces. This temple structure’s 54 stone towers are embellished with massive grinning headsthat symbolize the spirit of one of Cambodia’s most beloved kings, Jayavarman VII. Then, we’ll make a brief stop at the Elephants Terrace, where amazing bas-reliefs depict the huge beasts almost life-sized.
We’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then we’ll return to the hotel to rest for a bit. In the afternoon, we conclude our explorations
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 15 Siem Reap • Explore
Angkor Wat temples
Today, we’ll venture into the heart of ancientAngkor, a holy city that took centuries to
build and whose scale is still breathtakingtoday—it sprawls across an area of roughly 96square miles. The Khmer Empire aristocratswho built the temples and monuments herebetween AD 800-1200 were motivated by theirHindu and Buddhist beliefs.
We’ll begin at Angkor Wat, a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. Angkor Wat is a large pyramid temple, built between 1113 and 1150,surrounded by a great moat 570 feet wide.Note the bas-relief carvings throughout
the temple, and take a moment to stand inthe courtyard of this temple whose towers represent Mount Meru, the center of all physical and spiritual universes and the home to many gods in Hindu and Buddhist mythologies.
After, we’ll visit the 12th-century Bayonwhere we’ll be welcomed by over 200 smiling faces. This temple structure’s 54 stone towers are embellished with massive grinning headsthat symbolize the spirit of one of Cambodia’s most beloved kings, Jayavarman VII. Then, we’ll make a brief stop at the Elephants Terrace, where amazing bas-reliefs depict the huge beasts almost life-sized.
We’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then we’ll return to the hotel to rest for a bit. In the afternoon, we conclude our explorations
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call toll-free 1-800-955-1925
of Angkor’s most notable features with a visit to Ta Prohm. Unlike Angkor Wat, Ta Prohmhas been left the way it was found, covered by a dense jungle of trees and roots and allowing you to discover this archaeological treasure just as it was found by the French in themid-1800s.
Later, we return to Angkor Wat where we’lltoast to our discoveries as we watch the sun set. Then this evening, dinner is on your own.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 16 Fly to Ho Chi Minh
City (Saigon), Vietnam
After breakfast at the hotel, we enjoy a freemorning before heading to the airport forour ight to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, thecountry’s largest city.
While many locals still call the city Saigon, the city was o cially renamed Ho Chi Minh City in 1976. Upon arrival, we embark on a city tour and orientation walk that includes the Central Post O ce and the Catholic Cathedralof Notre Dame. Dressed in beautiful stained glass, the church was completed in 1880 and is said to stand on the site of an old pagoda.
Later, we’ll check in at the hotel and enjoydinner at a local restaurant this evening.
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 17 Ho Chi Minh City • Optional traditional water puppet show, cyclo-rickshaw ride & dinnerThis morning we’ll set o to explore Ho ChiMinh City, starting with the PresidentialPalace, the former o ce and residence of South Vietnam’s president during the Vietnam War. After, we’ll take a short walk through Hao Sy Phuong Alley where we’ll admire the
Later, we return to Angkor Wat where we’lltoast to our discoveries as we watch the sun set. Then this evening, dinner is on your own.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 16 Fly to Ho Chi Minh
City (Saigon), Vietnam
After breakfast at the hotel, we enjoy a freemorning before heading to the airport forour ight to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, thecountry’s largest city.
While many locals still call the city Saigon, the city was o cially renamed Ho Chi Minh City in 1976. Upon arrival, we embark on a city tour and orientation walk that includes the Central Post O ce and the Catholic Cathedralof Notre Dame. Dressed in beautiful stained glass, the church was completed in 1880 and is said to stand on the site of an old pagoda.
Later, we’ll check in at the hotel and enjoydinner at a local restaurant this evening.
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 17 Ho Chi Minh City • Optional traditional water puppet show, cyclo-rickshaw ride & dinnerThis morning we’ll set o to explore Ho ChiMinh City, starting with the PresidentialPalace, the former o ce and residence of South Vietnam’s president during the Vietnam War. After, we’ll take a short walk through Hao Sy Phuong Alley where we’ll admire the
French style of the buildings. We’ll meetthe locals and even join a family inside their home to see what the traditional lifestyle islike here. Then, we’ll take a bus to Ong BonPagoda, a temple that is dedicated to the god of happiness and wealth.
After lunch at a local restaurant, you can spend the balance of your day at leisure. Youmay choose to visit Ben Thanh market wheremerchants sell food, produce, and other goods. This evening, dinner will be on
your own.
Or you may wish to join our optional tour, which starts with a traditional puppet showand is followed by a cyclo-rickshaw ride through the city, drinks at a beer garden, and dinner at a local street kitchen.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 18 Ho Chi Minh City •
Mekong Delta discovery
After breakfast, we journey outside of HoChi Minh City to discover Vietnam’s famousMekong Delta. We’ll drive to the picturesqueprovince of Ben Tre, where we’ll enjoy a briefwalk through Ben Tre village—famous for its coconut plantations—and take a sampan ridealong one of the town’s scenic and peacefulcanals. We’ll also visit a coconut candy workshop to learn about making the sweet keo dua the region is known for. Then, after lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll head back to HoChi Minh City, where we have some time at leisure. Dinner is on your own this evening.
Breakfast, Lunch
After lunch at a local restaurant, you can spend the balance of your day at leisure. Youmay choose to visit Ben Thanh market wheremerchants sell food, produce, and other goods. This evening, dinner will be on
your own.
Or you may wish to join our optional tour, which starts with a traditional puppet showand is followed by a cyclo-rickshaw ride through the city, drinks at a beer garden, and dinner at a local street kitchen.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 18 Ho Chi Minh City •
Mekong Delta discovery
After breakfast, we journey outside of HoChi Minh City to discover Vietnam’s famousMekong Delta. We’ll drive to the picturesqueprovince of Ben Tre, where we’ll enjoy a briefwalk through Ben Tre village—famous for its coconut plantations—and take a sampan ridealong one of the town’s scenic and peacefulcanals. We’ll also visit a coconut candy workshop to learn about making the sweet keo dua the region is known for. Then, after lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll head back to HoChi Minh City, where we have some time at leisure. Dinner is on your own this evening.
Breakfast, Lunch
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call toll-free 1-800-955-1925
Day 19 Ho Chi Minh City •
Visit Cu Chi Tunnels
After breakfast at our hotel, we visit the Cu Chi Tunnels—a 125-mile-long underground maze where thousands of ghters andvillagers hid and fought during the VietnamWar, referred to by locals as the “American War.” The South Vietnamese Communists, or Viet Cong, built this vast network oftunnels in and around the district of Cu
Chi and worked continually over 25 years
to expand the multi-level network. Thetunnels—which include mess halls, meeting rooms, an operating theater, a tiny cinema, small factories, and vast ammunition stores—allowed the Viet Cong to control largeareas near Saigon. Today, the Cu Chi Tunnelsprovide invaluable insight into the war era.We return to Ho Chi Minh City in time forlunch at a traditional Vietnamese restaurant.
Tonight, we’ll toast to our Southeast Asia travel experience when we gather for aFarewell Dinner at a local restaurant.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit Cu Chi Tunnels
After breakfast at our hotel, we visit the Cu Chi Tunnels—a 125-mile-long underground maze where thousands of ghters andvillagers hid and fought during the VietnamWar, referred to by locals as the “American War.” The South Vietnamese Communists, or Viet Cong, built this vast network oftunnels in and around the district of Cu
Chi and worked continually over 25 years
to expand the multi-level network. Thetunnels—which include mess halls, meeting rooms, an operating theater, a tiny cinema, small factories, and vast ammunition stores—allowed the Viet Cong to control largeareas near Saigon. Today, the Cu Chi Tunnelsprovide invaluable insight into the war era.We return to Ho Chi Minh City in time forlunch at a traditional Vietnamese restaurant.
Tonight, we’ll toast to our Southeast Asia travel experience when we gather for aFarewell Dinner at a local restaurant.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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