Introduction

• Introduction
  
  I will arrive in Hanoi late on 8 August.
  
  On 9 August I have booked a tour of Hanoi (8Hrs) followed by a food tour starting at 5.30pm.
  
  On 10 August I have free time until 6pm when the tour starts with a meeting.
  
  Tour Details
  
  Day 1, Hanoi
  Xin chao! Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam. The tour begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm today. There are no activities planned until this important meeting. Please check with hotel reception or look on the reception noticeboard for where and when the meeting will take place. If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception or your booking agent in advance. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader. 
  Accomodation: 
  Hotel
  
  Day 2, Halong Bay
  Travel by private minibus for about four hours to the spectacular World Heritage site of Halong Bay. This is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful places, a secluded bay of emerald waters flecked with sandstone islands and caves. Here you’ll go on a cruise to explore the rock formations and caves and in the warmer months go for a swim. You’ll also enjoy a sumptuous lunch of fresh seafood.
  Later, return to the docks and stay overnight in a hotel in Halong City (Bai Chay).Halong Bay - Entrance and half day boat cruiseHotel 
  Accomodation: 
  Hotel
  
  Day 3Hanoi/Overnight Train
  Take a three-and-a-half hour bus ride back to Vietnam’s charming capital, Hanoi. You’ll then go on a walking tour of the city’s Old Quarter. Explore the 36 streets that make up this district, including the Dong Xuan Market, Hoan Kiem Lake and the unique architecture nearby. Hanoi has a French provincial feel remaining from its colonial times, but it also has a Buddhist influence and striking modern buildings.
  Board an overnight train for a twelve-hour journey to Hue. Although conditions are basic, overnight trains are the best way to travel long distances and brush shoulders with the locals. Most trains have a dining carriage which serves simple food, but some travellers like to take some fresh bread, cheese and fruit for the journey.
  Notes: Sleeper trains typically have four or six berth compartments with bench seats that convert into sleeping bunks. A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided, although some travellers prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. Depending on the configuration of the group, you may have to share with people of different genders or passengers who aren’t part of the group.Hanoi - Old Quarter Walking TourOvernight sleeper train 
  Accomodation: 
  Overnight sleeper train
  
  Day 4, Hue
  As the former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue holds the treasures of Vietnam's royal past and is a curious mix of bustling streets and tranquil settings.
  Packed with historic monuments, Hue is also perfectly located to explore the surrounding countryside, which features stunning scenery, quaint villages and the peaceful Tam Giang Lagoon.
  Hue is Vietnam’s former royal capital and its cuisine is considered by many Vietnamese as the best in the country. Hue’s cuisine is influenced both by its imperial heritage (small dishes and a focus on aesthetic presentation) as well as its strong Buddhist heritage, reflected in the high proportion of vegetarian restaurants in the region.
  The bustling Dong Ba Market offers a plethora of goods and foods to see and sample, and it's a good place to try some of the specialities that graced the Nguyen emperors' banquet tables, such as the banh khoai, a royal rice cake.
  You have a free day to explore. You could also easily spend a couple of hours exploring Hue’s massive walled citadel and the Forbidden Purple Palace enclosed within. Perhaps jump on board a ‘Dragon Boat’, and enjoy a cruise up the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu pagoda. Or cycle out to one of the Royal tombs such as the tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, one of the best remaining examples of its kind.
  
  Alternatively, set off on an optional motorcycle tour of the sights in Hue and some surrounding villages.
  Please note: Our hotel rooms will be available from the standard check in time this afternoon. You can store your luggage at the hotel while you explore Hue.Hue - Perfume river cruise and Thien Mu PagodaHue - Royal tombHue - Imperial citadel
  Hue - Motorbike trip including lunchHue - Hue Royal Street Eat by Cyclo Urban AdventureHotel 
  
  Accomodation: 
  Hotel
  
  Day 5 Hoi An
  Continue on your journey to the World Heritage site of Hoi An, where your leader will take you on a walk around town. The city was a major trading port with the west from the 17th century onwards, and has a various architectural influences from Europe, China and Vietnam. Today the city is being restored and looks exactly like it did over a century ago.
  The rest of the day is free for you to do some optional activities or soak up the ambience of the place. You may like to wander Hoi An Market and the street stalls selling paintings, woodwork, ceramics, lanterns and much more. It’s also famous for its talented tailors who can make beautiful items to order within a few hours.Hoi An - Ancient town guided walk and entrance ticket Hotel 
  Accomodation: 
  Hotel
  
  Day 6, Hoi An
  Enjoy a free day to further explore Hoi An. Perhaps take a cruise up the Thu Bon River or learn the secrets of cooking delicious Vietnamese dishes. Visit some of the man art galleries or simply wonder around the beautifully restored Chinese shop houses. There’s also the option of cycling around the surrounding countryside, a truly unique way to get off the beaten track and see rural Vietnam up close. Your leader will be able to suggest activities to help you get the most out of your time.Hoi An - Hoi An Boat & Bike Urban AdventureHoi An - Hoi An Walking & Cooking Class Urban Adventure Hotel 
  Accomodation: 
  Hotel
  
  Day 7, Hoi An/Overnight Train
  Make the most out of your last free day in Hoi An. Perhaps do some of the activities you couldn’t fit into your schedule over the past couple of days. There’s Also Cua Dai Beach nearby, the perfect place to rest up before continuing on your way.
  This evening, board another overnight train to Nha Trang. The journey will take about eight hours.Hoi An - My Son Cham day tripOvernight sleeper train 
  Accomodation: 
  Overnight sleeper train 
  
  Day 8, Nha TrangIn and around Nha Trang
  
  Arrive in Nha Trang at around 7 am and transfer to your hotel. Nha Trang is a charming town on Vietnam's southeast coast with pristine beaches, consistently good weather, a vibrant nightlife and excellent diving. You have two full days to catch some rays, swim, snorkel and indulge in fresh seafood.
  Please note: Our hotel rooms will be available from the standard check in time this afternoon. You can store your luggage at the hotel while you explore Nha Trang.Nha Trang - Full day boat trip to Hon Mun Island 
  Accomodation: 
  Hotel
  
  Day 9, Nha Trang/Overnight Train
  Enjoy your a free day in Nha Trang. In the evening, you’ll get on another overnight train to Ho Chi Minh City (seven hours).Nha Trang - Mud baths 
  Accomodation: 
  Overnight sleeper train
  
  Day 10, Ho Chi Minh City
  Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City very early this morning and transfer to your hotel. Today you’ll have plenty of free time to explore Vietnam’s largest city. Ho Chi Minh City has a busy atmosphere and a French influence. In your free time, we recommend visiting the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. There’s also the historic Dong Khoi Street, and the chaotic markets of Ben Thanh and Cholon (Chinatown). Ho Chi Minh City has a different style of cuisine to its northern counterpart Hanoi, so be sure get out for restaurant meals and street food.Notes: There are shared hotel rooms available this morning if you would like to freshen up before check in time this afternoon. Ho Chi Minh City - Reunification PalaceHo Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum 
  Accomodation: 
  Hotel
  
  Day 11, Ho Chi Minh City Urban Adventure Day
  Enjoy a free day today. Some of Intrepid's Urban Adventures available in in this city include Cu Chi Experience, Cyclos & Markets, and Saigon Street Food by Night.
  As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group may change at this location. There will be a group meeting on the evening to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and you're welcome to attend, as this is a great chance to meet your new fellow travellers.Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnel Experience Urban AdventureHo Chi Minh City - Mekong Discovery Urban AdventureHo Chi Minh City - Cyclos & Markets
  
  Day 12, Phnom PenhIn and around Phnom Penh
  Travel by public bus through rural Vietnam and Cambodia to Phnom Penh (approximately 6–7 hours). Cambodia's capital city is set on a major junction of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers and boasts some fine examples of French-inspired architecture. You will take a cyclo tour of the city's sights, including the central market, US Embassy, Wat Phnom, Mekong river front, independence monument and Royal Palace. If you're in the mood for shopping, stop in at the art-deco Psar Thmei (Central Market) or travel out to Psar Tuol Tom Pong (the Russian Market) for the best range of local souvenirs.Phnom Penh - Cyclo tourPhnom Penh - Traditional Khmer massage 
  Accomodation: 
  Hotel
  
  Day 13, Homestay
  Travel by private bus (approximately 3 hours) into rural Cambodia to the region of Kampong Speu and village of Chambok. There's a lot of natural beauty to discover here, from waterfalls to swimming holes to bat caves nestled in the mountains. The Chambok community is renowned for its ecotourism. Tonight you'll join a local family in their home – a wonderful opportunity to participate in everyday Cambodian life. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Khmer dinner. You'll also be treated to a traditional dance performance while you're here.
  Notes: Facilities on this homestay are basic and multi-share. Mattresses, bedding and mosquito nets are provided.Chambok - Traditional Dancing 
  Accomodation: 
  Homestay
  
  Day 14, SihanoukvilleIn and around Sihanoukville
  A private bus takes you to Sihanoukville today (approximately 4 hours). Named after the Cambodian royal family, this town has miles of lovely beaches and warm, welcoming people. It's also a jumping-off point to many beautiful islands. Settle in and perhaps take a refreshing swim. 
  Accomodation:  
  Guesthouse
  
  Day 15, SihanoukvilleEnjoy a day of free time.
  There are a variety of exciting optional activities on offer. You can take a boat to one of the nearby islands, enjoy a barbecue lunch or simply relax among swaying palms, white sands and blue waters. Perhaps make the trip out to Ream National Park, which boasts 21 hectares of coastal mangrove forest and a great variety of animal and bird species. You may like to take a Khmer cooking class, or perhaps partake in some windsurfing or kitesurfing.Sihanoukville - Island Boat Trip & SnorkellingSihanoukville - Ream National Park entry fee 
  Accomodation: 
  Guesthouse
  
  Day 16, Phnom Penh
  Travel by private bus back to Phnom Penh (approximately 4 hours). Visiting the Choeung Ek Memorial is highly recommended. This is the site of the Killing Fields, the execution ground for the torture victims of Tuol Sleng. Alternatively, learn about a brighter period of Cambodian history by visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Wat Phnom, shrouded in myth, is equally worth a visit, as is the National Museum and its excellent Khmer collection. Perhaps indulge in a traditional massage at Seeing Hands massage parlours (a great social enterprise supporting the talents of visually impaired masseurs). Phnom Penh - Wat PhnomPhnom Penh - National MuseumPhnom Penh - Royal Palace & Silver PagodaPhnom Penh - Tuol Sleng Prison Museum (S21)Phnom Penh - Choeung Ek (Killing Fields) 
  Accomodation:Hotel
  
  Day 17, Kompong ChamIn and around Kompong
   Travel by private bus to the riverside town of Kompong Cham (approximately 3 hours). This peaceful town was once an important trading hub and is now a great opportunity to experience life in small-town Cambodia. You might like to explore the serene 11th-century Wat Nokor. Alternatively, hire a bike to explore the rural island of Koh Paen which is linked to Kompong Cham by an elaborate bamboo bridge (it's passable only in the dry season; you'll have to take a ferry across in the wet). The locals here make their living fishing, growing tobacco and sesame, so it's a good place to go for a closer look at some of Cambodia's cottage industries. A little further afield are the twin 'mountain temples' of Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei.Kompong Cham - Wat NokorKompong Cham - Bicycle hire 
  Accomodation: 
  Hotel
  
  Day 18, Siem Reap
  Take a public bus to Siem Reap (approximately 5 hours). Experience rural Cambodia along the way and take the opportunity to sample the local cuisine of Skun – deep fried spiders! The small but expanding town of Siem Reap is the gateway to Angkor. This is the most popular destination for travellers in all of Cambodia, perhaps even in South-East Asia. The markets are a great place to shop or to try some cheap, delicious street food. 
  Accomodation: 
   Hotel 
  
  Day 19, Siem Reap / Angkor Wat
  Today you will visit the world-famous Angkor complex with your guide. These temples were built between the 9th and 13th centuries when the Khmer empire was the pre-eminent influence in South-East Asia. The temples were believed to represent the cosmic world and were set in perfect balance, symmetry and composition. The intricately carved bas-reliefs and architectural designs are mind-blowing and there are spectacular photographic opportunities at any time of day – seeing them at sunrise or sunset is a must. The ruins are scattered over an area of some 160 square kilometres, but the main cluster of temples is close to Siem Reap. You'll have plenty of time to fully appreciate the great archaeological sites of Angkor Wat, the Bayon and the jungle-covered Ta Prohm.
  Notes: A single-day Angkor Pass is included on this tour. If you'd like to return to Angkor outside of your included visit, you can buy a longer pass. Just ask your leader.
  Siem Reap - 1 day Angkor Pass Siem Reap - Angkor Temples Guided Tour 
  Accomodation: 
  Hotel
  
  Day 20, Siem Reap
  
  Today there may be a chance (depending on the season) to visit Tonle Sap Lake for a look at local life. If you feel like some adventure, another option is to do the Flight of the Gibbon zip-line course, which gives you a birds-eye view of the beautiful rainforest – and an adrenaline rush, of course. Another option is to visit the sobering Landmine Museum. It's located a little further field, but is well worth the journey.Siem Reap - Remork transport to Tonle Sap LakeSiem Reap - Tonle Sap Lake Boat TripSiem Reap - Flight of the Gibbon ZipliningSiem Reap - Khmer Cooking ClassSiem Reap - Three Day Angkor PassSiem Reap - Remork transport to Angkor complex 
  Accomodation: 
  Hotel
  
  Day 21, Bangkok
  It's a long drive from Siem Reap to Bangkok (approximately 8–9 hours including border crossing and lunch). You'll be travelling by private minivan.
  
  Day 22, Bangkok
  There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time.
  Embrace Thailand's bustling capital, a world of tuk tuks, khlong (canal) boats and street vendors serving up delicious Thai food. Perhaps take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets; wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road; pay a visit to Wat Pho, home to the country's largest reclining Buddha and keeper of the magic behind Thai massage; explore the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha; or travel by longtail boat down the Chao Phraya River to explore the famous canals. Life along these canals seems a world away from the chaotic streets of the city.Bangkok - Bangkok by Bike Urban AdventureBangkok - Chinatown Food Discovery Urban AdventureBangkok - Temple & River of Kings Urban AdventureBangkok - Tuk Tuk Experience Urban Adventure