Adventures in Southeast Asia

Experience the best of Southeast Asia with this fabulous exploration of three unsurpassable UNESCO World Heritage sites: the otherworldly landscapes of Vietnam’s Halong Bay, the gleaming Buddhist temples and evocative French colonial architecture of Luang Prabang, Laos and Cambodia’s mystical Angkor temples. An ever-unfolding wonder, this journey is steeped in history, culture, stunning landscapes, fine class cuisine and more than a few delightful surprises! You stay at hotels specially chosen for their comfort, service, ambiance and location. Your local adventure travel guides share a wealth of knowledge, experience and fascinating stories about each of the three destinations.

The magic begins in Hanoi. You tour its historic sites, explore the bustling Old Quarter, and enjoy its best and most unique restaurants. From there you head to Halong Bay, where your classic, junk-style private yacht transports you through a wondrous maze of fantastically shaped limestone islets.

A short flight takes you to northern Laos and Luang Prabang, a perfectly preserved French colonial settlement that redefines the meaning of atmospheric. Temple drums and gongs at dawn, saffron robed monks silently padding through the streets to collect alms, a dazzling array of local produce at the traditional market, the wide reach of the majestic Mekong River and ethnic villages set in the soft green folds of surrounding hills: such delights await you each day as you set out from the beautiful refurbished royal residence in the heart of the old town.

Finally you arrive in Siem Reap to discover one of the most astonishing accomplishments of mankind: the colossal temples of Angkor. A carefully crafted itinerary ensures you experience each temple at the right time of day – when the light is just right and when the crowds are busy somewhere else. Your expert guide brings alive the enthralling background stories of these awe-inspiring sites. At the end of each day, your luxury hotel is a perfect oasis to relax and reflect on the wonders of this once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Experience the best of Southeast Asia with this luxury exploration of three unsurpassable UNESCO World Heritage sites: ethereal Halong Bay, evocative Luang Prabang and mystical Angkor Wat. An ever-unfolding wonder, this journey is steeped in history, culture, stunning landscapes, fine cuisine and more than a few delightful surprises!

Day 1 — Hanoi

Arrive in the bustling heart of Hanoi and check into a luxury boutique hotel.

Day 2 — Hanoi

Visit the city’s famous sites, including Ho Chi Min’s Mausoleum and the Confucian Temple of Literature, take in a Water Puppet Show and experience a truly unique local restaurant.

Day 3 — Halong Bay

Embark your luxurious mothership, cruise through jade-coloured waters past fantastically shaped islets to the far reaches of Halong Bay.

Day 4 — Halong Bay

Paddle into sea caves with the sound of water gurgling and booming in their dark depths. Relax on a white sand beach below a towering cliff and explore colourful Ba Men Temple tucked into the greenery close by.

Day 5 — Halong Bay/Hanoi

Drift through a magical misty dawn back towards port. On your return to Hanoi, head for a tiny traditional restaurant where locals have been enjoying the same house-special for over a hundred years.

Day 6 — Luang Prabang

Arrive in this magical city that was once the home of royals and check into a historic 5-star hotel. Take in the atmosphere as you sip the best espresso you’ve ever had and savour a delicate pastry at our favourite French colonial café.

Day 7 — Luang Prabang

Rise early to see lines of saffron clad, barefoot monks streaming out of ancient temples of the the royal quarter. After breakfast jump aboard a traditional, long riverboat heading up the mighty, swirling Mekong River to Pak Ou cave, and light joss sticks to appease the river gods.

Day 8 — Luang Prabang

Trek through beautiful bamboo forest to stunning waterfall for lunch.

Day 9 — Siem Reap

Fly to Cambodia, check into a luxury boutique hotel there and put your feet up or indulge in the spa.  Your afternoon visit to the Angkor treasures in the National Museum sets the scene for our adventures ahead.

Day 10 — Siem Reap

Start your exploration of the ancient Khmer temples at first light to watch the sun creep up above the spires of Angkor Wat and reflect off the lotus lake. Follow a top local guide as he coordinates your visits of Angkor’s highlights to avoid the biggest crowds.

Day 11 — Siem Reap

Hike through fragrant, tropical jungle to the banks of Kbal Spean where clear, cool water rushes over sacred sculptures carved into the riverbed. Explore Banthey Sre Temple when the afternoon light brings out the details on its fine stone carvings.

Day 12 — Siem Reap

Run your hands over huge tree roots that engulf Bayon temple and contemplate the passage of time and civilizations. Take in the sunset from the top of a remote and hardly visited temple.

Day 13 — Siem Reap

Embark on your flight home or onward journey.