Laos Vietnamese & Cambodian Hotpot - Family - 18 days

2012 - Your Journey starts Luang Prabang, ends Siem Reap

DAYS 1-4 - LUANG PRABANG
Arrive in Luang Prabang and meet the other families sharing your adventure. The next morning, become an elephant mahout for a day at Elephant village then return for a traditional Baci ceremony to welcome you to Laos. Board your boat for a stunning cruise to Kamu Lodge, stopping at Pak Ou caves to see the Buddha effigies set into the cave. At Kamu Lodge participate in customary activities such as rice planting, fishing or a village walk, and spend the night in a deluxe tent. Return to Luang Prabang for free time before your flight to Hanoi.
Hotels: Villa Saykham, Kamu Ecolodge

DAYS 5-7 - HANOI & HALONG BAY
Fly to Hanoi and transfer to your hotel, before an intriguing visit Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum. Escape to the serene Temple of Literature and uncover fascinating history at the infamous Hanoi Hilton prison, before an evening performance of the famous water puppets delights. A scenic drive past farmers working the rice paddies brings you to World Heritage listed Halong Bay where you board an exciting boat cruise and float past hundreds of soaring limestone mountains. A night on-board is a highlight for young and old. On your return to Hanoi, a short flight brings you to Hue.
Hotels: Prestige, Overnight boat

DAYS 8-10 - HUE & HOI AN
In the former imperial capital, explore the citadel, elaborate emperors’ tombs and the Thien Mu Pagoda. Cruise down the Perfume River on a fun dragon boat ride, and visit the Spiral Foundation, where the deaf and mute workers teach you to make local crafts. A spectacular drive leads you along the dramatic cliff tops above the sparkling China Sea to Hoi An, visiting sacred Marble Mountains along the way. Experience the delights of Hoi An on a walking tour and find out about local produce on a market tour with the young people from the Streets Foundation. For something different, embark on the family-run ‘Fisherman eco tour’ for a true insight into Vietnamese life. Enjoy an afternoon free to roam the colourful streets of this atmospheric town.
Hotels: Saigon Morin, Ancient House

DAYS 11-15 - SAIGON & MEKONG DELTA
Fly to Saigon, Vietnam’s largest city. Stroll along historic Dong Khoi Street and visit the reunification Palace and War remnants Museum. In the tranquil Mekong Delta, a home-stay with a local family immerses you into the local culture. The whole family will enjoy the trip to the amazing Cu Chi tunnels where you have the chance to crawl through the tunnels yourself.
Hotels: Liberty Central, Home-stay

DAYS 16-18 - SIEM REAP
A short flight lands in Siem Reap, home to the amazing temples of Angkor. Visit the iconic temple of Ta Prohm, famed for appearing in the Tomb raider film, and soar high above the temples on a tethered balloon ride for a bird’s eye view. The next morning creep through the darkness, your path lit only by torchlight to see the spectacular vista of the first light of dawn falling on Angkor Wat, then explore more of the temples from the back of an elephant and thrilling tuk-tuk ride. Cruise the vast waters of Tonle Sap Lake, and then discover an absorbing silk farm. Take an entertaining horse and cart ride and dress up in traditional Cambodian attire for a fun photo shoot. On your last day, enjoy free time before your departure transfer.
Hotel: Royal Bay Inn Angkor Resort