Itinerary

Day 1 Bangkok

Bangkok is a frequently chaotic jumble of traffic, temples, savory food and entertainment. Over the last few years, the opening of a slick new elevated tramway that enables visitors to glide over the chaotic scenes below, coupled with the cheap and frequent river boats and the reasonably priced air-conditioned taxis, have made tourism in the city newly appealing. Within the city limits is a wealth of over 300 Buddhist temple and shrines. Most famous are Wat Benchamabophit (Marble Temple), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and Wat Trimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha). One of the largest temple complexes in the country is Wat Pho. Altogether, there are over 30 individual temples scattered here, of which the Temple of the Reclining Buddha is the largest. The Buddha's statue is enormous, an amazing 47.5m (156ft) long and 15m (49ft) high. Wat Phra Kaeo is a temple complex that houses the Emerald Buddha.

A private vehicle with English speaking guide & driver will transfer you between the airport and your hotel.

Welcome to Bangkok and AriyasomVilla - step back in time to a more leisurely life style. The Villa was built in 1942 and is still in the hands of the original family who built it. With 25 beautifully appointed Rooms and Suites, "Na Aroon" Restaurant, Room Service, Swimming Pool, Spa, Meeting Room, Library, Meditation Hall and under ground Car Parking we are well equipped to really look after you during your stay in the "City of Angels". Conveniently located in the "heart" of Central Bangkok.

Overnight at Ariyasomvilla.

Day 2 Bangkok

A visit to the Royal Grand Palace, the nation’s landmark and most praised royal monument in Thailand, with the enclosed and dazzling Wat Phra Keo with its revered Emerald Buddha, the Golden Chedi, the Pantheon of the Chakri Kings and the Eight Coloured Towers, is a must. In Thailand by many, it is considered to be a living example of classical Siamese Court, being the former residence of the kings of Thailand. Wat Pho is also regarded as the first centre of public education and is sometimes called ‘Thailand’s first university’. Mural paintings, inscriptions, and statues found in the temple-educated people on varied subjects such as literature, warfare, archaeology, astronomy, geology, meditation and to be considered, home of the Thai traditional massage. Here, you will enjoy a 30-minutes’ Thai massage as an excellent break after a morning sightseeing. Experience an afternoon trip along the bustling Chao Phya River and the quiet Klongs (canals) in a long tail boat enjoy scenes of life by water.   We bring you to a more traditional way of living, more serene and traditional, away from all the high-rise and modern buildings of Bangkok City Centre, as we gently pass Thonburi residential areas. A stop will be made at the “Temple of Dawn” (officially named Wat Arun). Finally, a visit to the Flower and vegetable market will round off this day. Located close to the Chao Phraya River, this part of Bangkok brings you to a rural piece of Bangkok where they have a vast selection of all kinds of flowers, especially orchids and tropical flowers and see how the merchants create very special flower garlands. The end of this Bangkok day ends at the Golden Mountain.  Photography is permitted in the Royal Palace Grounds and in the compounds of the Emerald Buddha Temple, but not inside the buildings.  Note: Please dress respectfully by not wearing sleeveless, shorts or sandals, when visiting the Grand Palace and temple complex.  The Palace may be closed without prior notice during Royal ceremonies and officials/head of state visits. The inner courts of Grand Palace are frequently closed on Sundays; we recommend not to book this excursion on Sundays to avoid disappointment.

Overnight at Ariyasomvilla.

Day 3 Bangkok

This most, interesting half-day tour takes you to the rural yet world-famous floating market of Damnern Saduak, situated around 100 kilometers west of Bangkok. It is generally known as Klong Ton Khem Floating Market or Damnern Saduak Floating Market. Damnern Saduak has officially three floating markets. A narrow canal flanked with food stalls and souvenir shops forms the principal market at Ton Kem. Photographers at Ton Kem will get their best shots from the bridge, which crosses over the canal, and from the produce shed on the right. Nowadays, the market is bustling with activity from very early in the morning until about 11.00 am. For those who want to buy some memorabilia here, be mindful that you bargain!

Overnight at Ariyasomvilla.

Day 4 Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai in the far north is Thailand's second-largest city and a center for excursions to the region's ancient and beautiful temples, the teak forests and their working elephants, caves and waterfalls, and journeys to visit the northern hill tribes. The main attractions are the Doi Suthep temple and elephant trekking. Doi Suthep is one of the most famous temples in northern Thailand. Perched high on a hilltop, it offers fine views over the city on clear days. The trip up can either be made via a funicular or a grand staircase with 400 steps. The banisters alone are worth a visit: a giant green-and-red glazed serpent winds its way down to end in a magnificent dragon's head.

A private vehicle with English speaking guide & driver will transfer you between the airport and your hotel.

Relax on this flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide.

This amazing sightseeing tour takes guests around the famous city for an up-close and personal look at some of its most notable temples, as well as stops at its old city walls, gates and moat, and the local market and Tapae Gate. Highlight of this trip include Wat Chiang Man, the city’s oldest temple and famed for a Chedi supported by rows of elephantine buttresses; Wat Phrasing home of the beautiful Lai Kham chapel with its exquisite woodcarving and northern style murals; Wat Chedi Luang and its enormous Pagoda (which was partially destroyed by an earthquake in 1545); and Wat Suan Dok, which dates back to the 14th century when it served as the pleasure gardens to the Thai monarchy. Nowadays it houses several white Chedi’s, containing the ashes of Chiang Mai’s former Royal family. The last temple also houses one of the most famous Monk Schools in the whole of Chiang Mai.

Tamarind Village is set in the heart of Chiang Mai, just 15 minutes from the airport, and close to the local bus and train links. The world famous night bazaar is a short stroll away, along with various temples and cultural points of interest. This boutique property boasts 42 guest rooms and 3 suites reflecting a range of styles accustomed only to northern Thailand. All rooms are decorated with contemporary elegance. On-site facilities include a spa, travel desk and car rental service.

Overnight at Tamarind Village (4*).

Day 5 Chiang Mai

The elephant is Thailand’s working pride and one of this country’s national symbols. Current estimates of wild elephants left in Thailand were between 3000-4000 animals. Although logging is being banned in this Kingdom, they remain a very important mode of jungle transport as it beats any other animal or machine for its ability to move through a forest with minimum damage. For centuries these animals were trained to use their skills by moving lumber and served as a mode of transport within the jungle area. Over the past decade, with the reduction in lumbering, these giants of the forest have been protected in various conservation camps. An interesting journey through the scenic countryside brings you to Chiang Dao Elephant Conservation Camp. Here you to see elephants at work during a half-hour presentation. There’s also an opportunity to watch the elephants as they take their morning bath. During your visit to the camp, you’ll have an opportunity to ride on elephant back during a one hour trek into the surrounding forest.  After a thai set lunch at the camp, the afternoon is reserved for a leisurely cruise on a bamboo rafting along Ping River to the raft station before heading back visit Orchid Farm.

Overnight at Tamarind Village (4*).

Day 6 Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. Located between the Mekong and Khan River, it is the cultural and religious center of the country, boasting 32 large temple complexes. Wat Xieng Thong is one of the most impressive temples, decorated with colored glass and gold. Testament to the fact that it had been the royal capital until 1975, the royal palace there contains fine artwork and gifts made for former kings. Nearby, in the town center, visitors can ascend Mount Phousi for a panoramic view of the city and surrounding rivers. Also worth seeing is the Palace Museum (the former royal palace), easily recognizable by its golden-inspired stupa, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from old rulers of the Kingdom of Lane Xang.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide.

Relax on this international flight from Chiang Mai, Thailand to Luang Prabang, Laos.

Airport transfer with private guide, driver and vehicle.

Take a traditional wooden boat upstream to visit the famous caves of Pak Ou. The caves are perched on the sheer face of the cliff, offering impressive and stunning views of the Mekong and surrounding mountains. Inside the cave, there are more than one hundred Buddha images which have been attracting local people since the early 14th century when the cave was discovered. On the way, a short stop at Ban Xanghai, enjoy the taste of the local rice wine. Distilling rice wine and weaving are important economic activities for the majority of people in the village.

Grand Luang Prabang hotel and resort is situated on grounds of the Xiengkeo Palace. The hotel site was chosen for its tranquility, stunning views of the mighty Mekong River, and the breathtaking landscape of mountains surrounding Luang Prabang. The hotel offers 76 luxurious rooms and 2 suites, all gracefully decorated. Begin your day with the delicious buffet breakfast offered in the restaurant terrace overlooking the mighty Mekong River and later on, enjoy the best of international cuisine featuring western, Thai, and Lao recipes.

Overnight at The Grand Luang Prabang.

Day 7 Luang Prabang

Explore Luang Prabang by bicycle. Visit former royal temples, Wat Visun where you can see the Biggest Buddha statue, Wat Xieng Thong the most beautiful temple in Luang Prabang with its mosaic decoration and the former royal carriage. Visit the Museum (former king's palace), then climb up Mt Phousi overlooking the city of Luang Prabang. Time permitting, take a ride around the outskirts of town.

Overnight at The Grand Luang Prabang.

Day 8 Hanoi

Hanoi is nestled on the banks of the Red River, it is a beautiful city that retains an air of French colonial elegance with pretty yellow stucco buildings lining leafy streets. Hanoi is also a city of lakes, which adds to its air of sleepy grace. In the middle of the city lies the peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake with the 18th-century Ngoc Son Temple sitting on an island in its center. To the north of Hoan Kiem Lake is the Old Quarter, a fascinating maze of small antiquated streets lined with markets and pavement restaurants and cafes. Also worth a visit, the former Ville Française was the old French administrative center and is characterized by enormous colonial-era châteaux and wide spacious boulevards. It also houses Hanoi’s most popular attraction, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Airport transfer with private guide, driver and vehicle.

Relax during this flight which departs Luang Prabang, Laos, and arrives in Hanoi, Vietnam.

You will be met and transferred between the airport to your hotel in a private vehicle with an English speaking driver.

The Silk Path benefits from an advantageous location in the heart of the charming old quarter of Hanoi: countless tourist attractions, government and diplomatic institutions as well as proximity to the business district of the city. The hotel, with its 106 well-appointed exclusively designed rooms and suites, is the preferred choice of the demanding traveler. The hotel has a 2 level restaurant with private dining rooms, a unique bar, and a fitness center and sauna. Silk Path Hotel guarantees a comfortable stay with all luxury amenities within reach.

Overnight at Silk Path (4*).

Day 9 Hanoi

Visit the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh and his former residence, One pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature. After lunch, continue your city tour to one of Hanoi's many museums: Fine Art, History, Revolutionary, War, Ethnology (of your choosing), then head to Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. Experience a one hour cyclo ride. Finish your day off at the Thang Long Opera Theatre for a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show.

Overnight at Silk Path (4*).

Day 10 Halong Bay

Ha Long Bay is located 160km (100 miles) north of Hanoi, this is an amazing complex of 3000 chalk islands rising out of the South China Sea. The area is strange, eerie and very beautiful. Many of the islands contain bizarre cave formations and grottoes. An entire culture of floating villages has evolved with interlinked boats that can move from island to island.

You will be picked up at 8am for your private transfer to Halong City. This takes roughly 3 hours. You may stop enroute to admire the local scenery. Arrive at the port around 11:30am and board the ship. Begin sailing and pass through a magical bay, where thousands of sculpted limestone islands rise from the waves like dragons’ teeth. After lunch, take a short trek to a nearby summit for a panoramic view of the bay dotted with golden sails, go swimming on a quiet beach or sunbath on the sundeck. Later in the afternoon, you will visit an interesting fishing village with an opportunity to interact with local people who have been living in the bay for almost three generations. Back on board enjoy a lavish dinner. Overnight on board.

.

Launched in mid 2006, the wooden junk that combines classic beauty with modern comfort. Our custom-designed junk features three decks that house an elegant restaurant, lounge, two bars, a small boutique, library and ten luxurious sleeping cabins. With so much space, passengers can truly unwind.

Overnight at Jasmine Halong Cruise .

Day 11 Hoi An

Hoi An is a small town in Central Vietnam famous for its wooden houses, for its family chapels, for its Assembly Halls and for its silk shops. The town of Hoi An, known as Faifo in Europe, played a central role in the commerce between Vietnam and the rest of the world from the 16th to the 19th century. Nowadays the town attracts tourists from all the continents.

You will be picked up at 8am for your private transfer to Halong City. This takes roughly 3 hours. You may stop enroute to admire the local scenery. Arrive at the port around 11:30am and board the ship. Begin sailing and pass through a magical bay, where thousands of sculpted limestone islands rise from the waves like dragons’ teeth. After lunch, take a short trek to a nearby summit for a panoramic view of the bay dotted with golden sails, go swimming on a quiet beach or sunbath on the sundeck. Later in the afternoon, you will visit an interesting fishing village with an opportunity to interact with local people who have been living in the bay for almost three generations. Back on board enjoy a lavish dinner. Overnight on board.

.

You will be met and transferred between the airport to your hotel in a private vehicle with an English speaking driver.

Relax during this short domestic flight travelling between Hanoi and Danang, Vietnam.

Airport transfer between Danang airport and Hoi An with private vehicle, Driver, and English-speaking guide.

Life Resort Hoi An is a tranquil getaway tucked into the French colonial town, Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 94 rooms are offered as junior suites, superior rooms, and grand suites. Each is set with with high standard fabrics and furnishings, using contemporary decor. Subtle delights mark this deluxe resort experience, known for genuinely hospitable staff. Dine at Senses Restaurant, which is host to the mouthwatering flavors of Vietnam, or Cafe Vienna, the European-style hotel hangout. Later, take a bicycle trip through the town and countryside or a ferry ride to the beach.

Overnight at Life Resort.

Day 12 Hoi An

Take a half day walking tour of Hoi An, discover the historic town which used to be a prosperous seaport city during the 16th to 18th centuries. Visit Hoi An's colourful local market, Tan Ky old house, Fukien Assembly Hall, and the 400-year-old Japanese covered bridge.Travelers can also see local residents raise silkworms and produce silk for Hoi An's burgeoning textile industry.

Overnight at Life Resort.

Day 13 Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is more modern than other Vietnamese cities, and has retained its French colonial influences. The streets are jam-packed with mopeds and scooters, often carrying whole families. Highlights in the city include the colorful Emperor of Jade Pagoda, an excellent example of a Chinese temple. The Hôtel de Ville is a wonderful example of French colonial architecture. The twin towers of Notre Dame Cathedral have been a familiar landmark in Ho Chi Minh City since the 1880s. The War Remnants Museum bears witness to the suffering inflicted on the Vietnamese people during the Vietnam War in the 1960s and 1970s. Other sites relevant to that era are Reunification Hall and the former US Embassy. An interesting excursion from Saigon is a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels in which the South Vietnamese Communists concealed themselves and from which they launched attacks on US soldiers.

Pick up in the morning for a transfer to visit My Son - Vietnam's most important Cham site. My son became a religious center in the late 4th century and lasted till 13th century – the longest period of development of any monument in Southeast Asia.

Airport transfer between Danang airport and Hoi An with private vehicle, Driver, and English-speaking guide.

This short domestic flights travels from Danang to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Enjoy a private transfer with English Speaking Driver between Ho Chi Minh City airport and your hotel.

The Renaissance Riverside is located in the heart of Saigon's business district, the Renaissance Riverside Hotel Saigon offers first-class hospitality, comfortable rooms and modern amenities. After a long day, relax at the poolside terrace or enjoy a leisurely dinner at Kabin, known as one of the finest Chinese restaurants in the city. Take a dip in the rooftop pool and visit the Health Club for an invigorating workout with the latest gym equipment. Otherwise, simply enjoy the incredible views of the Saigon River and stroll to museums, galleries and other area attractions. You’ll find that the hotel’s central location, panoramic views and impeccable service makes this the ideal place to stay while visiting Ho Chi Minh City.

Overnight at Renaissance Riverside.

Day 14 Ho Chi Minh City

Visit to Cu Chi tunnels ( 70 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh city ) an amazing complex of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam war. The residents of Cu Chi took their war underground, literally, developing a network of tunnels that, at its height, stretched as far as Cambodia and included meeting rooms, kitchens, and triage area. In the afternoon, return to the city for a tour visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral, Post Office and the former Presidential Palace. Continue to visit the War Museum. After a Vietnamese lunch at local restaurant (is in the price included), explore the China Town area and visit Thien Mu pagoda. Finish your tour off with a visit to Ben Thanh market.

Overnight at Renaissance Riverside.

Day 15 Siem Reap

Siem Reap is famous for the magnificent temples at Angkor. This ancient and astounding temple complex is what remains of the capital of the once mighty Khmer civilization. Angkor Wat itself, built AD 879-1191 to honor the Hindu god Vishnu, is often hailed as one of the most extraordinary architectural creations ever built, with its intricate bas reliefs, strange acoustics and magnificent soaring towers.

Enjoy a private transfer with English Speaking Driver between Ho Chi Minh City airport and your hotel.

Relax during this short flight from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam to Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English speaking guide. Note: departure tax leaving Siem Reap is not included in the tour price (USD$25 per person).

Popular among celebrities and industry professionals, the Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa offers comfort, elegance and superb refinement in the heart of Siem Reap. The building's graceful colonial architecture of the 1930's provides a sense of peaceful tranquility while its enchanting design creates a feeling of harmony with its natural surroundings. Gaze at the magnificent swimming pool, framed by lavish tropical gardens, from the seclusion of your private balcony. Indulge in the multitude of first-class dining options, from French gastronomy to traditional Khmer dishes or experience one of the resort’s renowned themed gala dinners. Rejuvenate your mind and body at Le Lotus Blanc Spa and experience why people the world over continue to flock to this mesmerizing resort.

Overnight at Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa (4+*).

Day 16 Siem Reap

Meet your private guide at your hotel and set off for a day of memorable Cambodian sightseeing. Visit the South Gate of Angkor Thom, the Bayon temple complex, as well as Takeo and Ta Prohm temples. The walled and moated city of Angkor Thom was the last capital of the Angkorian empire. It was built to protect against invaders in the 12th century. The Bayon is a state temple, erected in the center of the city. In the afternoon enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Continue with a visit to Angkor Wat temple complex and  watch the sun set on Phnom Bakheng. Travel from the South Gate of Angkor Thom to Bayon temple by elephant. Afterwards you will be transferred back to your hotel.

Overnight at Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa (4+*).

Day 17 Siem Reap

Lost in the jungle and almost forgotten by the local population, the little explored temple of Beng Mealea is waiting to be rediscovered by the adventurous travelers. Depart from Siem Reap by car to cover around 60 km in the Cambodian countryside, along the Kulen Mountains. Visit of the Beng Mealea and picnic lunch. On the way back, stop to visit Banteay Srei temple before continuing to Siem Reap.

Overnight at Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa (4+*).

Day 18 Koh Samui

Over the last decade or so Ko Samui, once a backpacker's haven, has developed into a more sophisticated beach resort, complete with an airport that offers regular flights to and from Bangkok and Krabi. Ko Samui is Thailand's third-largest island, and although tourism is now the main industry, its lingering rustic charm is summed up by the fact that coconut farming is still a major industry.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English speaking guide. Note: departure tax leaving Siem Reap is not included in the tour price (USD$25 per person).

Fly from Siem Reap to Koh Samui via Bangkok.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English speaking guide.

The Buri Rasa Village is situated in an enchanting traditional southern Thai village. Dwellings are nestled in a veritable Garden of Eden. Echoes of halcyon days with, once upon a time, tales of aristocracy escaping to country or Paradise Island retreats with a full complement of servants and services to meet their every need and requirement. Only an hour by plane from Bangkok, Buri Rasa nestles on the northwest coastline of the stunningly beautiful island of Samui, on what is considered the island's finest white sand beach. Calm and secluded, a true island paradise location in every sense of the word.

Overnight at Buri Rasa Village .

Day 19 Koh Samui

Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

Overnight at Buri Rasa Village .
    
Day 20 Koh Samui

Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

Overnight at Buri Rasa Village .
    
Day 21 Koh Samui

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English speaking guide.

Relax on this flight from Koh Samui to Bangkok.

Depart from Samui airport - end of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart.

More information from Kensington Tours:

• View trip on provider's website
  www.kensingtontours.com/tours/asia/vietnam/southeast-asia-gra…
• Company profile, experience, and history
• View all of their trips