Example Itinerary
Price is based on double or twin hotel room occupancy and includes accommodation, transfers, car/driver, English-speaking guide, activities and entrance fees, VIP airport services upon arrival and departure as described, food & evening tours as described, daily breakfast. Flights and optional special activities will be quoted separately. Most personal expenses, including dinners, alcoholic beverages, spa treatments and gratuities can be paid on the spot while traveling.
This 20-day classic journey to Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam promises the best of what Southeast Asia has to offer. With its stunning beaches, lush jungles and vibrant cities, the region offers something for everyone. Enjoy the bustling nightlife of Bangkok, explore the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat, and relax on the idyllic beaches of Phuket. From spending time with elephants in Laos to exploring the vibrant cities of Vietnam, there is plenty to discover. There's also plenty of mouth-watering cuisine to enjoy, from the fragrant curries of Thailand to the fresh seafood of Vietnam. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, a trip to Southeast Asia will be an unforgettable experience.
This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.
Iconic Sights: From gilded temples, bustling wet markets, and preserved colonial buildings to wild jungles, bucolic rice fields, and tropical beach, you’ll see all of Southeast Asia’s iconic natural and man-made sights on this journey.
Cultural Immersion: From the lively cities of Bangkok and Saigon to the rural villages of Cambodia and Laos, immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. You’ll wake up early to give alms, receive blessings at a temple, and eat breakfast at a local wet market, just like the locals do.
Start your journey in Bangkok, the city of angels. The capital and most populous city in Thailand, Bangkok is a rapidly modernizing metropolis that offers glittering skyscrapers, mega malls, and efficient sky train lines alongside opulent gilded royal buildings, sidewalk-lined street food carts, and ubiquitous shrines and pictures of the monarchy.
Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred via private vehicle into the city to your hotel. Check in and relax for the rest of the afternoon. Unwind with a coconut or lemongrass drink as you enjoy bucolic riverside scenes from your hotel.
In the evening as the day starts to cool down, it is time to dive into the bustling action at Chinatown on a streetfood tour. Eat your way down the streets of this massive open air food market and try staple dishes such as sizzling oyster omelets, egg noodles with crab and wontons, grilled satay skewers, curry over rice, and fresh fruits and juices. Learn about the convergence of Thai and Chinese cultures in Bangkok through its food. It is estimated that as much as a third to a half of the Thai population have Chinese ancestry.
Today you will explore Bangkok's most famous and historically significant sites, most of which are situated on Rattanakosin Island. When Rama I founded the city as the capital of his new kingdom in 1782, he chose the bend of the riverbank and turned it into a royal island by digging canals to form moats.
Begin with the Grand Palace, a sprawling royal complex of sparkling gilded structures. Nearby is Wat Pho, home of the Reclining Buddha and instruction center of Thai massage. Peruse the amulet market and flower market, and learn their cultural importance, before getting on a traditional long-tail boat for a cruise through the canals, known as klongs. When Bangkok was first founded, the land was mostly marshy swampland and thus canals instead of roads were the main mode of transportation. Today though most canals have been paved over, few still exist. See old and renovated wooden homes that fringe these waterways, a slice of life of yesteryear. End the day at Wat Arun, a striking temple on the west bank covered with over one million glazed ceramic tiles.
Arise early to visit one of Bangkok's morning wet markets. Feel the frenetic energy of the buzzing market and be sure to try a hot local breakfast while there such as piping hot jok. Then, visit the teak home of Jim Thomson, a cultural icon who is reputed to have saved the Thai silk craft before mysteriously disappearing into the Malaysian jungles. If you wish, experience the megamall phenomenon that is Siam Paragon, which features a multiplex cinema, bowling alley, concert hall, and Southeast Asia's largest aquarium. Round out the day with a stroll along Bangkok's first road which parallels the river. This area is undergoing a renaissance thanks to young street artists and entrepreneurs refitting old shophouses with hip cafes, restaurants, and bars, and art galleries. When the sun goes down, it’s time to experience the city’s nightlife with a bar hopping tour down one of Bangkok’s coolest streets lined with bars. You’ll even get a hands-on lesson in gin infusions.
Today you'll fly up north to Chiang Mai, the capital of the former Lanna Kingdom. Once a strong rival to the Ayutthaya Kingdom, Lanna was eventually overthrown and absorbed into the emerging Siam nation-state in the late 1800s. The distinct language, culture, foods, and traditions of the Lanna still exist today in Chiang Mai and other northern regions of Thailand.
Learn about the fascinating history of this historic city and its double moat on an old city tour by rickshaw. Then survey the city and the surrounding land from above at the top of Doi Suthep, a mountain just outside of the city. At the peak is one of the country's most venerated temples, and where you will receive a blessing. Before heading to your hotel, make a final stop at Wat Umong, one of the most unique and least-visited temples of the city. The temples's underground tunnels were built to contain a mad monk.
Go beyond the basic pad Thai and green curries and learn another side of this complex cuisine with a private cooking class focused on Lanna cuisine. Jungle vegetables and herbs, pork, and sticky rice are cornerstones of this regional cuisine, which inclines towards salty and spicy tastes. Create dishes using market and farm fresh ingredients over a traditional charcoal stove and enjoy your lunch in a countryside garden.
Alternatively, the adventure-inclined can instead opt to take advantage of Chiang Mai's jungles and rivers and go white-water rafting or ziplining.
In the afternoon, experience this old city's contemporary culture with a visit to the Maiiam Contemporary Art Museum and a stroll through the trendy Nimman district which is known for boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. This evening, visit a nighttime market which promises plenty of snacks and bargains. If it is the weekend, the famous Weekend Walking Street is a real treat.
Today you jet off to Laos, landing in the capital of Luang Prabang, a quaint city designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, you will be met and privately transferred to your luxury hotel to settle in. When you are ready, set out to explore the city. Its French colonial heritage is evident from the well-preserved architecture down to cuisine. Luang Prabang is also a highly spiritual city with a high density of temples. Stroll along the lanes and visit Wat Mai and Wat Xieng Thong, must-see notable temples where you can converse with monks and receive a blessing. Stop at a non-profit publishing project that aims to improve literacy and quality of life of children in rural villages where books are rare. Round out the day with a view of the sunset from Wat Phou Si, located atop Phou Si Hill which offers 360 degree views of the city, rivers, and mountains.
Rise early this morning to watch a procession of monks pass through the streets collecting food offerings from locals, which is then brought back to the monastery and shared. Participate in this merit-gaining ritual. After breakfast, spend the morning at a local elephant conservation camp which focuses on education and elephant welfare. You'll have the opportunity to get up and close with the pachyderms in an ethical and sensitive way and trek alongside them through the forest. In the afternoon, take a hike up to Kuang Si Falls, a striking tiered waterfall known for its bright and clear cerulean waters where you can enjoy a swim if you wish. Along the way, visit the Buffalo Dairy Farm, an innovative social enterprise which not only helps local farmers but also produces delectable treats you'll get to taste. Save the Bears foundation and the Butterfly park are also worthy stops.
Journey onward to Vietnam’s capital in the north, Hanoi. It was once the capital of French Indochina, then became the capital of unified Vietnam after the northern forces won the war. Today it is a largely modern and compact city that still retains its idyllic charm.
Begin with an introduction into Vietnam's arts, starting at the National Museum of Fine Arts, followed by a traditional water puppet show at the local theatre. Those interested in this unique variation of the ancient Asian puppet tradition can opt to meet a top artist and be welcomed to his home for a private show. As evening falls, it’s time for a street food tour on the back of a scooter. Do as the locals do: pull up a plastic chair and tuck into savory and fresh dishes before zipping off to the next restaurant.
Many of Hanoi's centuries-old monuments and palaces have been destroyed but there remain several historical and scenic points such as the peaceful Ngoc Son Temple in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake and the ancient Tran Quoc pagoda. Take a cyclo ride around the Old Quarter in the heart of the city, evocative of its French-colonial past, and explore a fresh market by foot. Next up, see what life would have been like for prisoners of war at the Hoa Lo Prison Museum which exhibits former US senator John McCain's parachute from when he landed in the lake as a soldier. Wrap up the day with a visit to Uncle Ho's Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and nearby Temple of Literature.
Take a morning flight to Danang. You are now in central Vietnam; Danang is a large coastal city known for its sandy beaches. Have a quaint seaside lunch before continuing along the coastal road to your hotel. After checking in and freshening up, head out again to explore the Marble Mountains. This cluster of marble and limestone hills are home to numerous caves and tunnels, many which were converted into Buddhist grottoes containing carvings, statues, and rockface reliefs.
Preferred Hotel
Take in the central region's serene vibe as you start the day relaxing on the expansive China Beach, just outside your resort.
After breakfast, it is time to head to neaby Hoi An, a charming historical city. Explore its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site with exceptionally-preserved architecture and street planning that reflects the foreign and indigenous influences that together create its unique identity. Admire the charming pale yellow buildings that house restsaurants, art galleries, cafes, and particularly tailor shops which is a specialty of the town. Have a special visit to a local family that is famed for their cao lau noodles, the specialty dish of Hoi An. It is said the noodles are best made in Hoi An due to the local water source which gives them a finer texture. In the afternoon, wind down with a relaxing cruise on the Thu Bon river. Disembark at a local village before heading back to your hotel.
We recommend returning to town in the evening when its famous colorful lanterns are lit and the night market comes to life. Make sure to sample the tasty treats made fresh from the local food carts.
Head south to Saigon via flight from Danang in the morning. In the afternoon, experience the bustle of this exciting city which used to be the capital of the south. While Hanoi feels more quintessentially Vietnam with tradition dictating the way of life, Saigon more eagerly embraces modernity, innovation, and foreign influence, making it a dynamic international metropolis.
Take a stroll around a downtown boulevard lined with impressive and historically significant French colonial buildings including the Opera House, the Continental Hotel, General Post Office, and City Hall. Then head to Cholon, the city's Chinatown, which dates back to 1778 and is home to a few temples, pagodas, a mosque, and a small Catholic cathedral. While in Chinatown, explore the main market, Binh Tay which is fringed by an outer wet market and a food court near the back where shoppers stop for snacks and buy takeout meals.
Your last day in Vietnam is dedicated to the history of modern Vietnam and the war that formed it. Start with a visit to the famous Cu Chi tunnels, a short speedboat ride away. This network of underground tunnels were once used by Viet Cong soldiers as hiding spots during combat. Here, you will meet a veteran who will take you through the tunnels and tell you his side of the story of the 'American War.' In the afternoon, you will visit the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace, emotionally-powerful and historically significant sites that are must-sees for anyone who visits this country.
Leave Vietnam behind as you fly to your fourth Southeast Asian country, Cambodia. Land in Phnom Penh and jump right into a history lesson at Tuol Sleng, a museum chronicling the Cambodian genocide. The site is a former secondary school that was used as a security prison by the Khmer Rouge. Trade the somber mood for the bustling atmosphere at Central Market and Russian Markets where locals and visitors alike converge over food, clothes, and goods. See the gleaming Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, awesome royal sites sitting along the river before settling in for the evening.
Preferred Hotel
This morning, before your flight to Siem Reap, make a visit to the Killing Fields where you can meet with a survivor and hear his stories as you survey the mass burial plots.
In the afternoon, arrive in Siem Reap, a budding city in the north known for its Angkorian temples that has steadily grown into a destination itself. You will be expedited through the airport and chauffeured to your hotel. Check in, relax, and freshen up. In the late afternoon when you are ready, get your first glimpse of ancient Angkor aboard a private gondola. Cruise on the moat around the fortified city of Angkor Thom with canapés in-hand as the sunset makes the ruins glow.
Rise early this morning to arrive on the grounds of Angkor Wat while it is still dark. A private entrance and path illuminated by moonlight allows you an intimate and quiet moment at this revered site before arriving at the West Gate just in time to witness the grand sunrise spectacle. Spend the rest of the morning exploring Angkor Wat and other famed temples. At Ta Phrom, an archaeologist will personally escort you through the ruins for added insight into its history and conservation efforts.
This afternoon, head out to the countryside to spend time at a local village. Meet the community which includes the village doctor, a family that specializes in handicrafts, a family that makes banana snacks grilled in coconut, and more. Learn about their daily lives and livelihoods, gaining true insight into the realities of rural life in Cambodia. If you wish, hop on ATVs and explore more of the countryside scenery.
This morning you will meet the ‘Hero Rats’ who go on daily missions to uncover unexploded ordnance leftover from the war. Afterwards, get to know Siem Reap's budding handicrafts and boutiques scene in Kandal Village where you can pick up handmade homeware, silky textiles, locally-forged jewelry, and breezy tropical accessories and decor. We can arrange an exclusive fashion show with close friend and fashion designer, Eric Raisina, at his boutique. Get a close-up look at Eric's amazing hand-woven works and feel his passion for Cambodian textiles.
In the afternoon, take flight to your final destination, Phuket. This tropical paradise with pearly white sand, swaying palm trees, and warm turquoise waters is the real deal. Take your pick from a range of luxury accommodations, from white-glove resorts to barefoot boutiques, private-pool villas perched cliffside with stunning views or directly on the beach. The rest of the day is yours.
Take a morning cultural excursion to Phuket's Old Town, a quaint collection of Sino-Portuguese shophouses and historic mansions, Chinese shrines, temples, and Peranakan restaurants. Return to your resort and spend the rest of the day at leisure, whether on the beach of by the pool.
This final day in the sun is yours to do as you see fit.
To really take advantage of your last day in paradise, opt for a private yacht charter. Set course for the many small islands and lagoons that harbor a whole world of sealife just below the crystal clear surface. Strap on a mask and explore the underwater side of Phuket. Drink in the sunset with a glass of champagne and a fresh bbq seafood dinner back at your villa, a sublime end to your journey through Southeast Asia.
Enjoy your breakfast, and perhaps one last dip in the ocean and a coconut, before your private transfer to the airport for your flight onward.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
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