Vietnam, Laos & Thailand: Riversides & Railways 22 Days

Experience the vibrant energy of Vietnam's bustling metropolis with a guided orientation walk led by your CEO. Afterward, indulge in some personal exploration, revisiting your favorite spots or delving deeper into the local culture. Take your time to wander the streets and absorb the city's unique atmosphere. In the evening, board an overnight train to Nha Trang for a well-deserved rest. Meals Included: Breakfast Transport: Overnight Train (10-11 hours) Included Activities: Guided Orientation Walk Additional Notes: During January/February, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tết) attracts millions of Vietnamese who travel to be with their families and celebrate. While this presents a fascinating time to visit Vietnam, availability of transport may require us to replace the overnight train with an overnight bus.

Welcome to the mesmerizing eastern coast! Begin your day by immersing yourself in the vibrant local shops and markets, or indulge in a rejuvenating mud bath experience. You can also unwind on the pristine beaches or explore the nearby historical sites. In the evening, embark on an exciting street food adventure and savor the culinary delights of Nha Trang. Accommodation: Bondi Backpackers Nha Trang (or similar). Included Activities: Nha Trang Street Food Crawl

The adventure continues! Enjoy more free time to discover the charms of Nha Trang. Take full advantage of this opportunity to explore the city before boarding an overnight train to Hoi An, with a brief stop in Da Nang for a quick transfer. Meals Included: Breakfast Transport: Overnight Train (9-10 hours)

Get ready to be captivated by the charm of Hoi An. Begin your exploration with a guided orientation walk to familiarize yourself with the city's highlights. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure, where you can delve deeper into the wonders of Hoi An. Choose from a variety of activities such as a cooking class, cycling to the beach, visiting a tailor, or exploring the enchanting old town. Tonight, it's time to celebrate your journey with a memorable night out. Raise a toast and share stories of your favorite adventures. Let loose and dance the night away! From Da Nang, a short 45-minute drive will bring you to the picturesque port town of Hoi An. Formerly known as Faifo, this vibrant trading hub boasts a rich history influenced by southern Chinese culture and connections. Accommodation: Hoi An Paradise Hostel (or similar). Transport: Private Vehicle: Da Nang to Hoi An (45 minutes) Included Activities: Hoi An Orientation Walk Reminisce Riverside

Embark on a delightful culinary adventure at the G Adventures-supported Oodles of Noodles. Learn the art of noodle-making and savor the flavors. The rest of the day is yours to explore. You can visit the ancient ruins of My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or cruise along the Thu Bon River, taking in the scenic beauty. Accommodation: Hoi An Paradise Hostel (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Lunch Included Activities: Oodles of Noodles

Journey north to the regal Imperial City of Huế. There are plenty of options for exploration here. Visit the majestic Royal Citadel and tombs, cruise along the Perfume River, or immerse yourself in the local culture by hopping on a motorbike and exploring the city like a true local. Pre-book the "Hue Motorbike Tour" on the checkout page to add this thrilling activity to your itinerary. Accommodation: DMZ Hostel (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Transport: Private Vehicle 04:00 Hr(s) Optional Extras to choose from: Hue Motorbike Tour

Indulge in more leisure time to fully appreciate the charms of Huế. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic journey through Vietnam's breathtaking countryside, surrounded by verdant mountains, as you make your way to the captivating Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park. Accommodation: Sai Gon Phong Nha Hotel (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Transport: Private Vehicle 04:00 Hr(s)

Unleash your spirit of adventure and delve into the remarkable caves of Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, home to the oldest karst mountains and the longest cave in Asia. Then, embark on an overnight train journey to Hanoi. Meals Included: Breakfast Transport: Basic Overnight Train (beds) Optional Extras to choose from: Caving in Phong Nha Additional Notes: Pre-book the full-day Caving in Phong Nha adventure to explore the breathtaking Paradise Cave with its majestic stalactites. Enjoy a delectable Vietnamese lunch and then cruise to the turquoise beach of Phong Nha Cave.

Arrive in vibrant Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam, and embark on a private bus journey to the iconic Halong Bay. Indulge in a delectable seafood lunch cruise and explore mesmerizing caves. Don't forget to charge your camera to capture the perfect shot worth sharing! Accommodation: Halong Centrica Hotel (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Lunch Transport: Private Vehicle: Hanoi to Ha Long 04:00 Hr(s) Included Activities: Hạ Long Bay Junk Boat Trip

Step back in time as you embark on an orientation walk through Hanoi's Old Quarter. Pause for a refreshing drink at Bia Hoi Corner, a local spot serving bia hoi, a rice and wheat beer that costs a mere $0.25USD per glass! Interested in exploring the local cuisine? Pre-book the "Hanoi Foodie Culture Tour" activity on the checkout page to indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Hanoi. Accommodation: Bonne Nuit Hotel (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Transport: Shared Van 04:00 Hr(s) Included Activities: Old Quarter Orientation Walk Optional Extras to choose from: Hanoi Foodie Culture Tour

Discover the charm of Hanoi in the morning before catching an afternoon flight to Vientiane, the captivating capital of Laos. Immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of cultural wonders, whether strolling, cycling, or indulging in a leisurely tuk-tuk ride. Pay homage to Laos' revered national monument, Phat That Luang, or meander along the dusty riverside trails to stumble upon villages teeming with warm-hearted locals, accompanied by their loyal canine companions and clucking chickens. Make sure to explore Vientiane's vibrant morning market, a haven of colors and treasures, open throughout the day. As the sun begins its descent, savor a breathtaking sunset over the majestic Mekong River, culminating a perfect day. Accommodation: City Inn Vientiane (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Transportation: Plane: Noi Bai International Airport to Wattay International Airport (duration: 01:15 Hr(s))

Embark on a journey to Vang Vieng, a picturesque town nestled amidst awe-inspiring limestone karsts and the tranquil Song River. Take part in a guided hike to a renowned local viewpoint, where you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas of the valley that require no filter to enhance their beauty. In the evening, we invite you to raise a glass to toast to newfound adventures and the joys of shared experiences with your fellow travelers. Here's to a life filled with excitement! Accommodation: Sisombat Plaza Hotel (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Transportation: Private Vehicle (duration: 03:00 - 04:00 Hr(s)) Included Activities: Guided Hike in Vang Vieng Vang Vieng Nightlife

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Vang Vieng as you enjoy a day of unrestricted exploration. Hop on a bicycle or embark on a countryside trek to discover the captivating caves. For an extra thrill, opt for the adrenaline-fueled experience of kayaking through Tham None cave and venturing to the Blue Lagoon by reserving the exhilarating "Vang Vieng Adrenaline Bundle" in advance on the checkout page. Accommodation: Sisombat Plaza Hotel (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Optional Extras: Vang Vieng Adrenaline Bundle

Journey onwards to the vibrant city of Luang Prabang, renowned for its vibrant colors. Begin your acquaintance with this ancient city through an informative orientation walk in the afternoon. Then, embark on a short trek up the sacred Mount Phousi, ascending stone stairs adorned with golden handrails, passing by the quarters of the monks and the enchanting Buddha's footprint cave, until you reach the temple atop the hill - Wat Phousi. Witness a breathtaking 360-degree sunset view over Luang Prabang and the Mekong River, before indulging in an evening street food crawl. Accommodation: Treasure Hotel (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Transportation: Private Vehicle (duration: 07:00 Hr(s)) Included Activities: Orientation Walk Street Food Crawl Sunset at Wat Phousi

Rise early to witness a captivating spectacle as saffron-robed monks gracefully walk through the town, receiving daily alms from local residents. This cherished tradition is an integral part of Laotian culture, and by observing it, you will partake in one of Laos' most significant religious ceremonies. Afterward, embark on a guided excursion to the enchanting Kuang Si waterfalls, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Enjoy the evening at your leisure. Accommodation: Treasure Hotel (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Included Activities: Kuang Si Waterfalls Excursion

Embrace the inviting allure of the Mekong River as you embark on a cozy and leisurely two-day journey aboard a traditional houseboat towards Chiang Khong in Thailand. Today, the river becomes your pathway to a village homestay, where you will experience the warmth of a Baci welcome ceremony and savor a delightful dinner with your hospitable hosts. Accommodation: Homestay Pakbeng (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Dinner Included Activities: Mekong River Slow Boat Mekong River Homestay & Baci Ceremony

Another day dawns, and the majestic Mekong River continues to accompany your journey. Today marks your second day of travel as you cross into Thailand, arriving in Chiang Khong by the afternoon. Sit back, relax, and soak in the scenic ride, keeping your eyes peeled for glimpses of wildlife along the way. Accommodation: Namkhong Guesthouse (or similar). Meals Included: Breakfast Lunch Included Activities: Mekong River Slow Boat Border Crossing (Laos - Thailand)

Marvel at the picturesque vistas of the rolling countryside during your drive to Chiang Mai, nestled among the majestic mountains of northern Thailand. In the afternoon, explore this serene city renowned for its vibrant traditional markets and splendid temples. Choose from a range of activities such as visiting Doi Suthep, witnessing an exhilarating Thai boxing match, cycling around the city, or indulging in the bustling atmosphere of the famous night market where you can find fantastic bargains. Accommodation: Chiang Mai Gate Hotel (or similar). Transportation: Private Vehicle: Chiang Khong to Chiang Mai (duration: 06:00 - 07:00 Hr(s)) Optional Extras to choose from: Northern Thai Cooking Class

Continue your exploration of Chiang Mai at your own leisure, embracing the unique experiences this city has to offer. Pay a visit to the awe-inspiring Doi Suthep temple, perched majestically on the hills overlooking the city. Embark on a scenic bicycle ride through the picturesque countryside or indulge in a rejuvenating massage. Tonight, embark on an overnight train journey, allowing you to rest and wake up in the vibrant city of Bangkok. Meals Included: Breakfast Transportation: Basic Overnight Train (beds) (duration: 12:00 - 13:00 Hr(s))

Upon arrival in Bangkok, the day is yours to immerse yourself in the multitude of attractions that this bustling capital has to offer. Explore iconic sites such as Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, the National Museum, or delve into the cultural heritage of Jim Thompson's House. Take a riverboat trip along the Chao Phraya River and navigate through the canals for a unique perspective on the city's daily life. Use this time to purchase last-minute souvenirs or indulge in a traditional Thai massage. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a memorable night out, celebrating the conclusion of this incredible journey. Accommodation: Sawasdee House Khaosan (or similar).

Today marks the farewell to your newfound group of friends. Capture some final memories and exchange contact information before embarking on your onward journey. Depart at your own convenience. Meals Included: Breakfast Included Activities: Departure Day