Indochina - Cities, Temples and Jungles of South East Asia

Itinerary

• Thailand

  The Kingdom of Thailand is at the center of Southeast Asia. Thailand is one of the most strongly Buddhist countries in the world, the national religion is Theravada Buddhism which is practiced by more than 95% of all Thais. The region has been settled since 10,000 BC, and has been ruled by various kingdoms over the centuries, including the Tai, Mon, Khmer, Malay and Burmese. the first Thai or Siamese state is traditionally considered to be the Buddhist kingdom of Sukhothai, which was founded in 1238. current era of Thai history began in 1782 under King Rama I the Great. Due to its strong monarchy, Thailand is the only country in Southeast Asia that has never been colonized or taken over by a European power. The capital and largest city of Thailand is Bangkok. It is also the country's centre of political, commercial, industrial, cultural and tourism activities. Visitors also go north to the hill tribes around Chiang Mai, and south to the beaches near Phuket and Koh Samui.

• 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.

• 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.

• Vietnam

  Vietnam is the easternmost country on the Indochina Peninsula in Southeast Asia. Vietnam was under Chinese control for a thousand years before becoming a nation-state in the 10th century. Successive dynasties flourished along with geographic and political expansion deeper into Southeast Asia, until it was colonized by the French in the mid-19th century. The French were expelled in the mid-20th century, leaving a nation divided politically into two countries. Bitter fighting between the two sides continued during the Vietnam War, ending with a communist victory in 1975. In 1986, Vietnam instituted economic and political reforms and began a path towards international reintegration. By 2000, it had established diplomatic relations with most nations. Its economic growth has been among the highest in the world in the past decade. Tourism is centered on Hanoi and Ha Long Bay in the north, Hue and Da Nang in the center, and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in the south.

• 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.

• 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.

• Laos

  Laos is a landlocked country in southeast Asia, bordered by Burma (Myanmar) and China to the northwest, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south, and Thailand to the west. Laos traces its history to the Kingdom of Lan Xang or Land of a Million Elephants, which existed from the fourteenth to the eighteenth century. After a period as a French protectorate, it gained independence in 1949. A long civil war ended officially when the communist Pathet Lao movement came to power in 1975. After taking control of the country, Pathet Lao's government gave Vietnam the right to station military forces and to appoint advisers to assist in overseeing the country. Control by Vietnam and socialization were slowly replaced by a relaxation of economic restrictions in the 1980s and admission into ASEAN in 1997. In 2005, the United States established Normal Trade Relations with Laos. Tourism in the country is centered on Luang Prabang, the ancient royal city with its dozens of temples and palaces. Vientienne, the capitol, is also picturesque and quiet.

• 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.

• Cambodia

  The Kingdom of Cambodia is a country in South East Asia with a population of over 14 million people. The kingdom's capital and largest city is Phnom Penh. Cambodia is the successor state of the once powerful Hindu and Buddhist Khmer Empire, which ruled most of the Indochinese Peninsula between the eleventh and fourteenth centuries. The country borders Thailand to its west and northwest, Laos to its northeast, and Vietnam to its east and southeast. In the south it faces the Gulf of Thailand. The geography of Cambodia is dominated by the Mekong river and the Tonle Sap Lake ("the fresh water lake"), an important source of fish. In 1975 the Khmer Rouge took power and attempted to rebuild the country's agriculture on the model of the 11th century. All Western education, medicine, buildings and trained people were destroyed. Estimates put the genocide between 1 to 3 million people. Vietnam invaded to stop the Khmer Rouge and civil war followed until 1991. In recent years reconstruction efforts have begun and some political stability has finally returned to Cambodia. Tourism is one of Cambodia's main industries, primarily to Siem Riep and the great temple complex of Angkor Wat.

• 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.

• Day 1: Sun, Dec 04 2011 -

  Board your overnight flight.

  Accommodation: Overnight Flight
• • Hanoi Cyclists

  Day 2: Mon, Dec 05 2011 - Hanoi

  Welcome to Vietnam! Arrive in Hanoi where this culturally and historically enchanting city awaits your discovery. Upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel to rest and recuperate for the trip ahead.

  Accommodation: Maison D`Hanoi (3*)

  Maison D'Hanoi Hanova Hotel is conveniently located within 3 minutes walk to the famous Hoan Kiem Lake, the old quarters with its walking streets and colonial architectures. Its 55 tasteful rooms are specially designed for both the leisure and discerning corporate guests alike. The Minh Hai Lobby Gallery, the Piano Bar and all-day-dining Hanova Cafe produces an ambience (every inch) an impeccable and unique boutique hotel. All of the 55 guest rooms and suites are equipped with tea and coffee making facilities, mini fridge, multi-channel satellite television, mini bar, IDD telephone, shower/bath tub combination, hair dryer, individually controlled air-conditioning, safe-box and free internet access. Suites are with DVD components.

• • Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum

  Day 3: Tue, Dec 06 2011 - Hanoi

  Today you will visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, his elegant former residence, One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature. Continue your tour to the War Remnants Museum before finishing off your day of exploration at the Thang Long Opera Theatre for a captivating traditional Vietnamese water puppet show. This evening you’ll enjoy a traditional Vietnamese welcome dinner in the good company of your fellow travellers and hosted by your local escort.

  Accommodation: Maison D`Hanoi (3*)
• • Halong Bay

  Day 4: Wed, Dec 07 2011 - Halong Bay

  Experience the mystical natural beauty of legendary Halong Bay. Embark on an enchanting and unforgettable overnight cruise. Visit this epic landscape’s hauntingly beautiful islands and majestic caves. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch while on board and relax over a mouthwatering dinner while watching the sunset.

  Accommodation: Ginger Halong Cruise (4*)

  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.

• • Luang Prabang

  Day 5: Thu, Dec 08 2011 - Halong Bay - Hanoi - Luang Prabang

  Continue your cruise on Halong Bay exploring other worldly caves before returning to Halong City. After lunch, transfer to Hanoi and then fly to Luang Prabang where you will be transferred to your hotel.

  Accommodation: The 3 Nagas

  The 3 Nagas hotel is an elegant boutique comprising three UNESCO World Heritage buildings more than a century old, steeped in Lao tradition yet embracing the best of modern comforts. Restored in 2003, the hotel blends contemporary style with the buildings’ original architecture, seamlessly connecting the past and the present. Each of the guest rooms are tastefully decorated and open onto a spacious private terrace overlooking the street or garden. Have a leisurely breakfast or afternoon tea while sitting on your private veranda and indulge in the divine culinary fare of the hotel’s renowned restaurants, offering the best in Lao cuisine, with a touch of French flare. Embark on a timeless cultural journey of discovery amid the hotel’s warm and inviting ambience.

• • Pak Ou

  Day 6: Fri, Dec 09 2011 - Luang Prabang

  Take a traditional wooden boat upstream to visit the famous caves of Pak Ou. Perched on the sheer face of the cliff, these legendary caves offer impressive and stunning views of Mekong River and the surrounding mountains. Inside the cave, there are more than 100 Buddha images which have been attracting locals since the early 14th century. During a short stop at Ban Xanghai, sample some traditional local rice wine.

  Accommodation: The 3 Nagas
• • Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

  Day 7: Sat, Dec 10 2011 - Luang Prabang - Chiang Mai

  Fly to Chiang Mai today where you will drive up the serpentine road to the magnificent Wat Doi Suthep. Suspended on a forested mountain, the sacred Chiang Mai temple provides a superb view of the city, as well as a wealth of images and frescos. Enjoy a quick stop at the city’s biggest market before moving on to two elegant and important temples - Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Sing.

  Accommodation: Tamarind Village (4*)

  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.

• • Elephants in Chiang Mai

  Day 8: Sun, Dec 11 2011 - Chiang Mai

  Today drive north of Chiang Mai to an elephant camp. Enjoy an entertaining elephant show followed by an elephant ride through the dense and exotic jungle. Get a better look at the countryside and village life during a voyage by oxcart. In the afternoon, continue the trip on a bamboo raft along the Taeng River. On our return to Chiang Mai you will stop by a renowned orchid nursery.

  Accommodation: Tamarind Village (4*)
• • Siem Reap

  Day 9: Mon, Dec 12 2011 - Chiang Mai - Siem Reap

  Bid farewell to Thailand today and take the flight from Chiang Mai to Cambodia’s Siem Reap (via Bangkok).

  Accommodation: Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa (4*)

  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.

• • Angkor Wat

  Day 10: Tue, Dec 13 2011 - Siem Reap

  Today you’ll lose yourself in the awe-inspiring magnificence of Angkor Wat. Accompanied by you expert guide, you’ll learn about the ancient and astounding 12th century temple complex, all that remains of the once mighty Khmer civilization. Explore the magical temples and spiritual sculptures of this epic ancient metropolis. Enjoy an elephant ride from the South Gate of Angkor Thom to Bayon temple before rising above the jungle in a hot air balloon for a panoramic view of this ancient wonder.

  Accommodation: Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa (4*)
• • Bang Malea

  Day 11: Wed, Dec 14 2011 - Siem Reap

  Travel deep into the jungle today to the little explored temple of Beng Mealea. Voyage through the Kulen Mountains to the enchanting Beng Mealea for a savory picnic lunch.

  Accommodation: Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa (4*)
• • Bangkok

  Day 12: Thu, Dec 15 2011 - Siem Reap - Bangkok

  Depart Siem Reap today and fly to Thailand’s bustling capital Bangkok.

  Accommodation: Park Plaza Sukhumvit

  Park Plaza Sukhumvit Hotel is located in the centre of Bangkok`s thriving Asoke/Sukhumvit district - the city`s most sought after business, retail and entertainment area. Its prime position makes access to Bangkok`s historic buildings, shopping centres and riverside attractions easy. The Queen Sirikit Convention Center is within easy walking distance. The hotel overlooks the picturesque Benjakitti Park and lake.

• • Grand Palace

  Day 13: Fri, Dec 16 2011 - Bangkok

  Today you’ll take in the historic and cultural highlights of colourful Bangkok. Witness the legendary Golden Buddha, the city’s famous ancient temples. Enjoy a farewell dinner this evening in the company of your tour escort and prepare to share your experiences through Indochina with those back home.

  Accommodation: Park Plaza Sukhumvit

• Day 14: Sat, Dec 17 2011 - Bangkok

  Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

  Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)

Accommodation

• Cultural Moments

  Throughout Asia, rice paddies are somewhat of a constant landscape element. Rice is grown in paddies, or shallow puddles carefully controlled to ensure the appropriate water depth (typically 15 cm).  The farmers take advantage of the rice plant's tolerance to water: the water in the paddies prevents weeds from outgrowing the crop. Once the rice has established dominance of the field, the water can be drained in preparation for harvest.

• Culinary Moments

  There are a vast array of fruits native to Asia that we are sure to see along the way - keep your eyes peeled for jackfruit, lychee, rambutan, mangosteen, durian, and starfruit  - all fruits somewhat unknown to the North American

• Fun Facts

  The conical leaf hat, or in Vietnamese, non la, is hand-woven with palm leaves and bamboo, then coated with attar to keep it clean, smooth, and waterproof – helping to protect from sun and rain in tropical Vietnam.

• • Maison D'Hanoi Hanova Hotel

  Maison D'Hanoi (3*)

  Maison D'Hanoi Hanova Hotel is conveniently located within 3 minutes walk to the famous Hoan Kiem Lake, the old quarters with its walking streets and colonial architectures. Its 55 tasteful rooms are specially designed for both the leisure and discerning corporate guests alike. The Minh Hai Lobby Gallery, the Piano Bar and all-day-dining Hanova Cafe produces an ambience (every inch) an impeccable and unique boutique hotel. All of the 55 guest rooms and suites are equipped with tea and coffee making facilities, mini fridge, multi-channel satellite television, mini bar, IDD telephone, shower/bath tub combination, hair dryer, individually controlled air-conditioning, safe-box and free internet access. Suites are with DVD components.

  • More information
• • Halong Ginger Junk

  Ginger Halong Cruise (4*)

  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.

  • More information
• • The 3 Nagas
  • The 3 Nagas - Guest Room

  The 3 Nagas

  The 3 Nagas hotel is an elegant boutique comprising three UNESCO World Heritage buildings more than a century old, steeped in Lao tradition yet embracing the best of modern comforts. Restored in 2003, the hotel blends contemporary style with the buildings’ original architecture, seamlessly connecting the past and the present. Each of the guest rooms are tastefully decorated and open onto a spacious private terrace overlooking the street or garden. Have a leisurely breakfast or afternoon tea while sitting on your private veranda and indulge in the divine culinary fare of the hotel’s renowned restaurants, offering the best in Lao cuisine, with a touch of French flare. Embark on a timeless cultural journey of discovery amid the hotel’s warm and inviting ambience.

  • More information
• • Tamarind Village

  Tamarind Village (4*)

  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.

  • More information
• • The elegant Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa
  • room

  Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa (4*)

  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.

  • More information
• • Park Plaza Sukhumvit

  Park Plaza Sukhumvit

  Park Plaza Sukhumvit Hotel is located in the centre of Bangkok`s thriving Asoke/Sukhumvit district - the city`s most sought after business, retail and entertainment area. Its prime position makes access to Bangkok`s historic buildings, shopping centres and riverside attractions easy. The Queen Sirikit Convention Center is within easy walking distance. The hotel overlooks the picturesque Benjakitti Park and lake.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon & Co.
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-co.com
  Web: www.horizon-co.com

• What's Included:

  • * All accommodation as per the itinerary * Local escort * Services of local specialty guide(s) * Tours as per the itinerary * Domestic flights: Hanoi - Luang Prabang, Luang Prabang * Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai - Siem Reap, Siem Reap - Bangkok * All meals as per the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner) * Welcome and farewell dinners * Entrance fees

• What's not Included:

  • * Tips * Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages including mineral water * International airfare * Visas * Travel insurance * Optional activities * Other items not mentioned in itinerary

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price). The balance is due 120 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Cancellations 121 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund less $300 and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise, or hotel deposits). 91 - 120 days will be subject to loss of 25% of trip cost. 61-90 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 60 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.horizon-co.com/terms-and-conditions

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