Essential Vietnam & Cambodia

Set sail on a Ha Long Bay cruise onboard a traditional junk boat, complete with visits to a cave and an island lookout. Spot intricate cave systems rising majestically from the waters as you cruise past limestone karts mountains that make for an unforgettable scenery. Swim, kayak or explore the caves if conditions allow, and sample a variety of fresh seafood meals, before drifting to sleep in your cosy cabin.

Halong Private Boat (or similar)

After breakfast and lunch onboard your junk boat, you’ll sail back to the port and return to Hanoi. Vietnam’s capital city has lots to offer – browse shops, have a bia hoi on a street corner or grab a coffee in a lakeside café. Optionally, indulge your inner foodie with a street food tour through the back streets and markets of the city’s old quarter, sampling local fare along the way before boarding an overnight train to Huế.

Asia Hotel (or similar)

Once the imperial capital of Vietnam, Huế is a city full of stories. Start your discoveries with a visit to the Tien Mu Pagoda which was built more than 400 years ago. At seven storeys high, it’s one of the tallest, most elegant pagodas in Vietnam. Afterwards, visit the Royal Tombs along the Perfume River. Embracing the concept of Feng Shui with ornate designs, these tombs provide memorable insight into the lives of its former rulers. While in Huế, treat your taste buds to local specialities including banh khoai (Hue savoury pancakes), and banh bot loc boc tom thit (thin rice paper filled with meat and shrimp), washed down with a Hue beer.

Asia Hotel (or similar)

After a scenic drive on the Hai Van Pass, you’ll arrive in Hoi An, your home for the next few days. This charming town has plenty to offer - opt for a cooking class, riverboat trip, bike ride, beach time and My Son ruins, or get tailor-made clothes in one of the many shops around town.

Vinh Hung Old Town Hotel (or similar)

Once the capital of South Vietnam and the country’s commercial centre, Ho Chi Minh City pulses with activity, busy streets, and delicious local food stalls. You’ll have plenty of free time to explore this frenetic city any way you like – check out the Thien Hau and Giac Vien pagodas and stroll through the immense Ben Thanh Market. The Reunification Palace, the city's Chinese quarter of Cholon, and the War Remnants Museum are also well worth a visit – before enjoying a boat cruise through the villages, islands, and markets of the Mekong Delta.

Golden Central Hotel Saigon (or similar)

Climb aboard a local bus, grab a seat, and enjoy the border crossing into Cambodia where you’ll continue on to the capital, Phnom Penh. Settle in a traditional cyclo and soak up the vibe of the city’s busy streets, from colonial buildings to riverside roads and atmospheric cafes. Delve into the dark side of Cambodian history with a guided tour of Choeung Ek, the site of the infamous Killing Fields. Afterwards, visit Tuol Sleng Museum (S-21 Prison), the notorious Khmer Rouge prison where thousands of Cambodians perished. In your free time, explore more of Phnom Penh’s main sights, including the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, the National Museum, Wat Phnom and the Russian Market. Or, simply choose to while away time with a leisurely drink in a riverside café.

Pacific Hotel (or similar)

After driving through beautiful Cambodian countryside, you’ll arrive in Siem Reap. Spend the next couple of days exploring Angkor, the former capital of the Khmer kingdom and one of the wonders of the archaeological world. See some of the highlights of this ancient capital, like sunrise at the majestic temple of Angkor Wat, the enigmatic Bayon within the walled city of Angkor Thom, and Ta Prohm, also known as the 'Tomb Raider' temple. In-between, learn about Khmer food, enjoy traditional meals and meet friendly locals.

Grand Bayon Siem Reap Hotel (or similar)

From the convenience of your private transfer, cross the border from Cambodia into Thailand and continue to buzzing Bangkok. Still revving to explore? Delve into Bangkok’s hodgepodge of chaotic roads, gold-gilded temples and street food carts as you reminisce over the incredible journey you’ve just had.

Hotel Royal Bangkok @ Chinatown (or similar)