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TRAVEL TOOL

On arrival at Siem Riep Airport, you are met and transferred to hotel. The town of Siem Reap is our base for visiting the world famous temples of the ancient city Angkor, which was the capital of the powerful Khmer Empire from 802 AD to 1350 AD. After checking into hotel, we drive to the archeological area to visit the South Gate of Angkor Thom, famous for its series of colossal human faces carved in stone, the impressive Bayon Temple, the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephant Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King. The largest as well as most complete structure of Angkor Wat is not to be missed. We stroll around this massive monument, exploring the many galleries with columns , libraries, pavilions, courtyards and ponds full of water reflecting the towering temple. O/N in Siem Reap.

DAY 2: SIEM REAP - ANGKOR TEMPLES

The jungle covered temple of Ta Prohm is an incredible sight. There are enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers which embrace themselves in the stone foundations of the structure giving the impression of man's creation being reclaimed by the powerful forces of nature. We explore this masterpiece as well as some of the surrounding temples including Banteay Kdei, Sra Srong, Ta Keo, Thommanon and Chau Say Tevado. The grand circuit with Preah Khan, Kravan, Neak Pean, Krol Ko, Ta Som, East Mebon and Pre Rup Temples, is also visited this afternoon before we walk up to Phnom Bakheng Hill for a view of the spectacular sunset over these sandstone monuments. O/N in Siem Reap. (B)

DAY 3: SIEM REAP - ANGKOR TEMPLES - BANTEAY SREI

Upon leaving the town we set off on a drive past Preah Dark village to the intricately carved and well preserved temple of Banteay Srei. After seeing this beautiful landmark we continue driving through the rugged mountain scenery to Kbal Soean, known as the River of 1000 Lingas. A view over the riverbed carvings is impressive. The next stop of our trip is the Banteay Samre Temple, which is adorned with impressive reliefs depicting scenes of Vishunu as well as Krishna legends. We also have time today, exploring the ancient Khmer civilization site of Hariharalaya which flourished in the late 9^th and earlier 10th centuries. These are the earliest temples in the Angkor area and are referred to the Rolous group. O/N in Siem Reap. (B)

DAY  4: SIEM REAP - PHNOM PENH

The river journey begins as we board our express boat and cruise for a half day down the Tonle Sap River to Phnom Penh. The capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh was once considered the loveliest city of Indochina. Despite the recent turbulent history, it still maintains considerable charm. A city tour acquaints us with some major sights of the city. The private quarters of the Royal Palace are now home to the royal family and are therefore very close to the public. At the northern area of the palace grounds is Silver Pagoda, well known for its 5000 silver tiled floor. We visit both structures as well as the National Museum for an appreciation of the splendour of Khmer history.  The next stop of our trip is the legendary temple of Wat Phnom, which provides an interesting view over the surroundings. O/N in Phnom Penh. (B)

DAY  5: PHNOM PENH - HO CHI MINH

After breakfast, we drive out to see the Tuol Sleng Museum with its disturbing account of Pol Pot's reign of terror and the notorious ''Killing Fields'' of Choeung Ek. The Indochina journey continues with a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City. This metropolis is crowded with bikes and motorbikes, excited by numerous shopping area and sidewalk caf'e. An afternoon city tour takes us in the Reunification Palace which was the former residence of the President of South Vietnam until end of April 1975. Close to the palace are some beautiful French colonial structures including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Sai Gon Post Office. We also visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda and the War Remnant before moving to the bustling Ben Thanh Market where anything and everything is for sale. O/N in Ho Chi Minh. (B)

DAY 6: HO CHI MINH - TAY NINH - CU CHI - HO CHI MINH

The head quarter of Cao Dai sect is located in Tay Ninh. This religion was founded in 1923 and now numbers  over 2 million members. After breakfast we travel by roads to Tay Ninh to see the ornate temple of Cao Dai and  attend the fantastic mid-day service when the followers fill the hall wearing colored robes, a symbol of the curious combination of the Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism. Afterwards we continue to the famous  Cu Chi Tunnels, which were an incredible underground network constructed by Vietnamese fighters during the long struggle for independence. The tunnels contained hospitals, plus accommodation and schools, and were used as a military base for the Vietcong in the American war. O/N in Ho Chi Minh. (B)

DAY 7: HO CHI CMINH - MEKONG DELTA - HO CHI MINH

Heading out of town we travel by roads to the Mekong Delta, Vietnam's largest rice bowl. On arrival in My Tho we embark on a boat navigating around the intricate small canals in the delta region, which is a great way to observe the local lifestyle close-up. This thrilling excursion will pass the lush green vegetation before arriving on an island. Here we have opportunities to visit some fascinating local industries, stroll around an orchard and taste many seasonal fruits. After feasting on a huge lunch we return to Ho Chi Minh, stopping off along the way to see the beautiful Ving Trang Pagoda and the Cho Lon, Saigon's Chinatown, which is crammed with fascinating temples and mysterious, narrow lanes. O/N in Ho Chi Minh. (B,L)

DAY 8: HO CHI MINH - DALAT

The northbound journey begins as we depart Ho Chi Minh and pass through the many  tea and coffee plantations to the hill station of Da Lat, sometimes known as the " City of Eternal Spring". The drive is long but views are fantastic. On arrival  we can soak up the cool climate as much as we want by  spending our time to wander around and catch our first glimpse of the town. The influence of the French is prevalent since Da Lat  was founded as a hill retreat for the colonials to escape the oppressive heat of the coastal plains and the Mekong Delta. This charming town is set around a lake and surrounded by forests, waterfalls and rolling countryside. O/N in Da Lat. (B)

DAY  9: DALAT - NHA TRANG

After breakfast, we embark on a short drive past the charming pine hill to visit  the summer residence of Vietnam's last Emperor Bao Dai, who was forced to abdicate in 1945, shortly after the end of the World War II. We follow this with a trip to the Lam Ty Ni Pagoda and the Hang Nga Guesthouse , well known as the Crazy House because of its bizarre architecture. The central market and the old rail station are also visited this morning before we travel by roads through the undulating terrains to the picturesque coastal town of Nha Trang. Along the way we make stopover at the scenic Ngoan Muc Pass and the Po Klong Jarai Cham Towers. These amazing structures represent an interesting culture and a colorful history of the Cham people. O/N in Nha Trang. (B)

DAY  10:  NHA TRANG

The fabulous sunny weather, turquoise water surrounding a string of islands and white sandy  beach stretching the whole length of the city make Nha Trang one of Vietnam's premier beach resorts. Today we board a boat for a day trip around the coastal islands, stopping on the way at a local fishing village to observe the island life. Today we also have lots of time on the blue clear water enjoying swimming and snorkeling or lazing on a beach. A seafood lunch is some enjoyment of the trip. We arrive back in town late afternoon and visit the Long Son Pagoda and the impressive Ponagar Cham Towers, which are overlooking the colourful fishing port. O/N in NhaTrang. (B,L)

DAY 11: NHA TRANG - DANANG - HOIAN

An early morning transfer to airport for a flight to Da Nang. On arrival we are greeted and driven a short distance to Hoi An which was originally a Cham seaport but has been influenced down centuries by a myriad of traders from various cultures. There are  plenty to see in this tranquil and delightful town, some of which are  the famous Japanese Covered Bridges, the Pottery Museum, the 200 years old Tamky House, the Chua Ong Pagoda and the vibrant market. We visit  these sights on an enchanting walking tour past many low tiled houses scattered along the small streets, and assembly halls which reflect the town's multi-cultural past. O/N in Hoi An. (B)

DAY  12: HOIAN - HUE

The following destination of our trip is Hue, Vietnam's last imperial capital. Along the way we make stop to visit  the sensational Marble Mountains,  the China Beach and the Cham Museum in Danang. This interesting structure is  home to Vietnam's largest collection of Cham treasures. The winding roads begin as we make our way up the spectacular Hai Van Pass. At the top of the pass we stop to admire a fantastic view north to Lang Co and south to Danang. Arriving in Hue we explore  the Imperial Citadel and the Purple Forbidden City. This royal residence was all but destroyed during the 1968 Tet Offensive, however it is still fascinating to stroll among the ruins. Afterwards we enjoy a walk to the bustling Dong Ba Market that sells a wide variety of local goods and handicrafts, and pass many fantastic eating spots, all ideal for  visitors to sample some local delicacies. O/N in Hue. (B)

DAY  13: HUE - HANOI

The beautiful riverside pagoda of Thien Mu which now becomes the symbol of Hue, and the elaborate royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc are not to be missed. We include these in a half day cruise on the Perfume River which also gives us a taste of the scenic countryside as well as an enjoyable visit to the mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang, in a tranquil setting of gardens and lakes. After an impressive boat trip  we take a walk to the bustling Dong Ba Market that sells a wide variety of local goods and handicrafts. In the evening we board a train for our overnight trip to Hanoi. The train conditions are basic; we travel in 'soft sleeper' class which is a compartment for up to four people. This journey is in keeping with the adventurous nature of our trips and allows you to experience a taste of the 'real Vietnam'. O/N on board. (B)

DAY  14: ARRIVAL - HANOI

The train journey arrives in Hanoi this morning. The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is a stylish and gracious city that retains an unique old world charm and some Asia 's most striking colonial architecture. The many lakes and parks also make for relaxing atmosphere. After checking into hotel we visit the beautiful lake of Hoan Kiem with its sacred temple and the vibrant Dong Xuan Market, which boasts Vietnam's oldest and largest market. A perfect way to finish the day is to enjoy a short cyclo excursion through the many bustling old quarter streets named after the specific goods once offered for sales at these places. O/N in Ha Noi. (B)

DAY  15: HANOI - HALONG

After breakfast, we enjoy a half day city tour starting with the Ho Chi Minh Complex,  containing the mausoleum of the nation's founder Ho Chi Minh, the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh's house on stilts. This complex also comprises the One Pillar Pagoda, whose origins date back to the foundation of Hanoi. We follow this with a trip to the Temple of Literature, well known as Vietnam's first university, and the History Museum which displays an excellent collection of artifacts illustrating the Vietnamese history. In the afternoon we travel by roads through the charming countryside to Ha Long Bay with stop over at Dong Trieu pottery village. O/N in Ha Long. (B)

DAY  16: HALONG - HANOI

The legendary Ha Long Bay is truly one of Vietnam's most impressive scenic sights. Today we embark on a sailing boat for an exploration of this wondrous bay, which is dotted with some 3,000 limestone islands rising amazingly from the clear and emerald water. The limestone karst formations are littered with beaches, grottoes and beautiful caves. Along the way we will anchor for a leisurely swim in a secluded cove and an enjoyable visit to one of the many hidden grottoes beneath towering cliffs. After a seafood lunch on board we make our way back to Ha Noi, arriving in time to see an evening performance of Hanoi's famous water puppets. O/N in Ha Noi. (B,L)

DAY  17: HANOI - VIENTIANE

An impressive way of commencing our day is a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake at dawn, where hundreds of people  come to do their morning exercise (optional). After breakfast we have free time until  transferring to airport for a flight to Vientiane. The charming and fascinating capital of Laos, Vientiane is located on the banks of the Mekong River. This small city conjures up exotic images, with the curious mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French influences. A city tour includes Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple still standing in Vientiane. The following sight is the former royal temple of Haw Pha Kaew, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. We also visit the imposing Patouxai Monument well known as Vientiane's own Arc de Triomphe on our way to the great sacred structure of That Luang Stupa. O/N in Vientiane. (B)

DAY  18: VIENTIANE - LUANG PRABANG

The royal capital  of the former Lane Xang Kingdom, Luang Prabang with its gleaming temple roofs, fading colonial architecture and stunning mountain backdrop  retains an unique charm rarely found in all Asia. This morning we take a short  flight to Luang Prabang. There is plenty to see in this delightful town, some of which are the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, the shrine of Wat Aham and Wat Mai with five tiered roofs. We include these sights in a half day guided tour which ends with a climb to Phousi Hill for a beautiful sunset view  of the town and the Mekong River. There  are 329 steps leading us on zigzag way past various temples to the sacred, gilded stupa of Wat Phousi at the summit. O/N in Luang Prabang. (B)

DAY  19: LUANG PRABANG  - PAKOU - LUANG PRABANG

Today we continue seeing this town with the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong, which nestles at the meeting of the Mekong and the Nam Khan River. The temple structures are decorated in various ways with gilded stuccoes and doorways while the main sim has a marvellous 'tree life' mosaic pattern on an outer wall. We  board a boat for a leisurely trip on the Mekong River, stopping en route at Ban Xang Hai to visit the distillation of local rice wine. Upon leaving this village we wave our wave through the stunning mountain landscape to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. They are  crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes, all brought there by devout villagers. After the river trip we drive  towards  Ban Phanom and visit the hand weaving. O/N in Luang Brabang. (B,L)

DAY 20: LUANG PRABANG - VIENTIANE

The exploration of Luang Prabang would not be complete without a visit to the national museum at the former Royal Palace. This interesting structure displays a lovely collection of treasures and artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through the last sovereign.  We then spend our time wandering through the charming streets until transferring to the airport for a short flight back to Vientiane. On arrival we head out to see the impressive Friendship Bridge which links Laos and Thailand, and the Buddha Park. This landmark represents a blend of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures created by mystical monk on a parkland located by the Mekong River. A perfect way to round off the day is to watch the spectacular sunset over the Mekong River from one of riverside bars. O/N in Vientiane. (B)

DAY 21: VIENTIANE - DEPARTURE

There is a free time for your own exploration of the city  and catching up on some shopping areas. The trip ends after your transfer to the airport for departure. (B).