Classic Indochina Experience

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Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Siem Reap

Upon arrival in Siem Reap, you are met and transferred to our centrally located hotel. You meet your tour leader and the rest of the group. After a pre-trip briefing, we adjourn for a group dinner in town (cost not included).

Day 2: Siem Reap

Meals included: 1 breakfast

We spend a full day visiting the amazing temples of Angkor on a guided tour. Angkor Thom, the 'Great Royal City', is famous for its series of colossal human faces carved in stone. The impressive Bayon temple is the centrepiece of all this. Angkor Wat is the largest and most complete structure. It is the only one of Angkor's temples with its entrance facing to the west (the others face east), the reason being that it was constructed as a funerary temple for King Suryavarman II and a westerly countenance was seen to represent a sunset. Ta Prohm temple is an incredible sight, with large trees embedding themselves in the stone foundations of the structure, giving the impression of man's creation being reclaimed by the powerful forces of nature. We can end the day with a sunset view of Angkor Wat from Phnom Bakheng.

Day 3: Siem Reap

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch

Our ticket for the Angkor ruins enables us to spend more time exploring this memorable archaeological area. It is an early morning start as we travel out to Banteay Srei, famous for its detailed and intricate stone carvings. It is not a big temple, but has been sometimes referred to as ‘the jewel in the crown of Angkorian art’. Back at the main temple complex, Preah Khan contains a maze of vaulted corridors and is another complex that has been largely reclaimed by the jungle. We include a visit to the Sala Bai Hotel School where underprivileged local youths learn skills which will enable them to find gainful employment in the hospitality industry. We also enjoy a lunch prepared by students at the school.

Day 4: Phnom Penh

Meals included: 1 breakfast

You have a free morning before leaving Siem Reap. If you wish to stay in town, you can relax outside one of the cafes or visit the market in town, which sells some interesting artefacts and handicrafts. Another option would be to relax by the hotel pool or enjoy a massage by one of the famous blind masseuses of Siem Reap. Flying to Phnom Penh you notice a change of pace, as you arrive in Cambodia’s capital. A relaxing drink at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club is a great way to start your evening.

Day 5: Phnom Penh

Meals included: 1 breakfast

A full city tour introduces you to the sights of Phnom Penh, a city that lies near the confluence of the Mekong and the Tonle Sap Rivers. The private quarters of the Royal Palace are home to King Sihamoni and are therefore closed to the public; however, we are able to visit the Silver Pagoda that lies in the palace complex, which is the most sacred temple in the country and was previously spared from destruction by the Khmer Rouge. Wat Phnom is the temple, which gave rise to the foundation of the city in the 15th Century. The bloody rule of the Khmer Rouge is a painful, but unavoidable, part of Cambodia's recent history and visits to the Tuol Sleng Prison Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek tell the story of this tragic legacy. (Note: These sites are a major part of sightseeing in Phnom Penh; however, if you do not wish to visit either of them, please inform your tour leader.) An ideal way to spend your last evening in Cambodia is to relax in a cafe by the riverfront.

Day 6: Chau Doc

Meals included: 1 breakfast

The morning we drive south along National Road 2 through the town of Takeo and on to the Cambodian-Vietnamese border point at Tinh Bien. Please note that a Vietnamese visa must be obtained prior to joining this tour as it is impossible to obtain one at the border. At the border crossing, we say goodbye to our Cambodian tour leader and meet our Vietnamese tour leader. We then continue by road around the base of Sam Mountain and on to our final destination, Chau Doc - an active trading town due to its proximity with the border. The market area runs along the riverfront and sells black market goods smuggled in from Cambodia. Being on the water allows us to see the interesting lifestyle of many of the local people. Homes are built over metal netting and their inhabitants are kept busy producing enormous amounts of food to feed the thousands of fish being bred here. This afternoon we enjoy a boat cruise on the Bassac River, a tributary of the Mekong, where we visit a Cham village, a mosque and a floating fish farm, as well as witnessing a demonstration of the local handicraft of silk weaving.

Day 7: Vinh Long

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 dinner

We continue our journey in the Mekong Delta towards Vinh Long, where we stay overnight on an island in a local homestay, situated on the waterways and filled with fruit gardens. The house is basic with all beds set up in a large communal room, but the experience is unique and offers us an insight into the way that the local people live.

Day 8: Saigon

Meals included: 1 breakfast

There is an early start to visit the bustling morning floating markets and then a cruise back to Cai Be, before we embark on the drive to Saigon. Along the way we stop to see the fascinating local industries. Upon arrival, we have an evening to enjoy the exciting nightlife of Vietnam’s largest city.

Day 9: Saigon

Meals included: 1 breakfast

We head out of town today to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels. Cu Chi is actually the name of the district that covers an extensive underground network (approximately 200 kilometres) of tunnels dug initially by the Viet Minh and later expanded by the Viet Cong. The tunnels contained hospitals, plus accommodation and schools, and were used extensively for refuge and storage and also utilised as a military base for the Viet Cong close to Saigon. The 1968 Tet Offensive was launched from Cu Chi with surprising effect. A section of the tunnels has been widened to allow tourists to get a feel for what the life underground must have been like. We will also visit Tay Ninh, which is the headquarters of the Cao Dai religion. We will attempt to arrive for the mid-day church service when the followers fill the hall wearing coloured robes, a symbol of the curious combination of the religions of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. (Please note that the church service does not operate during Tet.)

Day 10: Saigon

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Today is a free day to explore this vibrant and captivating city. Most places of interest are located close to the centre of town - the Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral and Ben Thanh Market. You may choose to get around by cyclo, which is the local version of a trishaw. The going rate is approximately 50,000 VND per hour but make sure you negotiate a price before setting out. Take time out to relax in one of the cafes on the tree-lined boulevards or enjoy a drink in the Continental Hotel, the meeting place for journalists during the Vietnam War.

Day 11: Dalat

Meals included: 1 breakfast

We start our northbound journey today with the first stop being Dalat, one of Vietnam's most charming towns. The drive offers fantastic views. The influence of the French is prevalent as Dalat was founded as a hill station to enable the colonials to escape the heat and chaos of Saigon. The city is set around a lake and surrounded by forests, waterfalls and rolling countryside.

Day 12: Dalat

Meals included: 1 breakfast

We have a free day to enjoy the sights in and around Dalat. A pleasant way to get around is by bicycle. This is also a great place for sitting in cafes, relaxing and soaking up the atmosphere. Close to Dalat are local Lat and Chill tribal villages, which we sometimes have the option to visit (this depends on the government restrictions at the time). However, we must purchase special permits, which our tour leader can help us to obtain.

Day 13: Nha Trang

Meals included: 1 breakfast

We make our way to the coast today for some 'R & R' on the beaches of Nha Trang. Along the way we pass the stunning Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park - the national park is home to the oldest primordial forest in the Central Highlands. On arrival in Nha Trang we check into our hotel, which is close to the beach.

Day 14: Nha Trang

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch

A highlight of a visit to Nha Trang is a day trip out on a boat exploring the islands of the South China Sea. We spend a day on the water enjoying swimming, snorkelling, lazing on a beach and feasting on a seafood lunch.

Day 15: Quy Nhon

Meals included: 1 breakfast

This is a very long travelling day. Departing Nha Trang, we drive past the colourful fishing port before making our way north, travelling along the coast. The drive is long, but the views are fantastic and we can make stops as we please, including a stop at the impressive Po Nagar Cham tower. Part of the pleasure of travelling in Vietnam is the simple joy of seeing green rice fields dotted with conical hats and the smiling faces of the people. We arrive in Quy Nhon in the evening for an overnight stop to break our long journey in what is basically a town that sees very few tourists.

Day 16: Hoi An

Meals included: 1 breakfast

We depart for Quang Ngai early and make a stop around lunchtime at the site of the My Lai Massacre. The area and the people are now at peace and, along the old road to the memorial and museum site, we can stop to take a walk through the colourful country roadside markets. We arrive in Hoi An in the afternoon and settle in for our two-night stay in this historical ‘oasis’. Hoi An was originally a Cham port town, but has been influenced down the centuries by a myriad of traders from various cultures. There is a distinctly Chinese appearance with pagodas and assembly halls scattered along the small streets. Hoi An was once a bustling port in centuries gone by, before the river silted up. Today it is a delightful backwater town with an air of liveliness about it. The tranquillity and charm of Hoi An, coupled with its low tiled houses, makes it one of the most delightful places to visit in Vietnam. It is a constant favourite of our travellers and staff. A walking tour takes us to see a historic house (formerly home to a prominent trader), the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese assembly hall and a museum.

Day 17: Hoi An

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Today is a free day to explore Hoi An and its surrounding areas. The market is a good place to buy silk, which can be made up into fine garments, all within a day. Close to town there is a nice beach, which can be reached easily by bicycle.

Day 18: Hue

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Leaving Hoi An, we continue north for further sightseeing. China Beach, enjoyed as an 'R & R' spot during the Vietnam War, lies against a backdrop of the sensational Marble Mountains. The five peaks, which are actually limestone with marble outcrops, are also seen to epitomise the five elements: fire, water, earth, wood and metal. The history of the mountains is a rich one. They were once used by the Chams for religious purposes, but in more recent times became a haven for the Viet Cong, with their clear view of the Danang air base - at one time the busiest airport in the world. Good footwear is essential, as the path between the rocks is sometimes slippery. The road to Hue takes us through the city of Danang, before a climb over the hills. The scene from the top of the Hai Van Pass is one of the most impressive panoramic scenes in Vietnam, with views over Lang Co Beach. Upon arrival in Hue we visit the Citadel and the Purple Forbidden City. This royal residence was all but destroyed during the 1968 Tet Offensive; however, it is still fascinating to walk among the ruins.

Day 19: Hue - overnight train

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Hue was once the capital of Vietnam. The royal mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc and the beautiful Thien Mu Pagoda are not to be missed. We include these in a guided cruise on the Perfume River, which also gives us a taste of the tranquil countryside. In the evening we have an early dinner before boarding the train for our overnight journey to Hanoi. The train is very basic; we travel in 'soft sleeper' class which is a compartment for up to four people; a communal environment. The beds on board come with a pillow and sheets, although some people may wish to bring their own sleeping sheet (purely optional and not a necessity). Also, breakfast tomorrow is not the best food you will find in Vietnam, so it is recommended that you purchase some snacks before boarding in Hue. This journey is in keeping with the adventurous nature of our trips and allows you to experience a taste of the 'real’ Vietnam.

Day 20: Hanoi

Hanoi is one of Asia's most enchanting cities. This northern capital is a quiet, contradiction of its southern counterpart. Its relaxed ambience is a joy, with exploration best on foot or bicycle. The shopping is fun and the many lakes and parks provide enjoyable escapes. We have enough time this afternoon to explore the Old Quarter streets named after the goods once offered for sale there, including Silk Street, Rice Street and Jewellers Street. In the evening there is an option to enjoy a performance of the unique Water Puppets.

Day 21: Hanoi

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch

We take a guided half-day tour of Hanoi, visiting the major sights, including the Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda, and paying a homage to Vietnam's most famous revolutionary, Ho Chi Minh. We also include lunch at the KOTO café – an amazing project aimed at providing vocational training and experience in the hospitality industry for underprivileged young people. All the staff you meet at this café have come from poor backgrounds. The remainder of the day is free to further explore Hanoi or catch up on some shopping in Hang Gai Street.

Day 22: Halong Bay

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

You can leave luggage behind at our Hanoi hotel and pack an overnight bag. It is a three-hour drive to Halong Bay, truly one of Vietnam's most impressive scenic sights. Views of sailing junks navigating past over 3000 limestone islands and rocky outcrops jutting out of the bay are nothing short of spectacular. We travel to Bai Chay (Halong City West) where we board a boat for an exploration of the bay, enjoying a seafood lunch and dinner (non-seafood also available), as well as spending a night on board. We visit one cave in the area and, in the warmer months, there is a chance to enjoy a swim. Conditions may be somewhat more communal compared to staying in a hotel, however it is a wonderful experience to be spending a night on the bay – weather permitting, the views at sunset are incredible. Bedding and towels are provided. All boats used by Peregrine have twin-share cabins with en suite facilities and air-conditioning. There may also be the chance to do some kayaking (optional and extra cost involved) on Halong Bay. Accommodation on the Halong Bay cruise is on a twin-share basis, due to the small number of rooms available on the boats. If you have paid a single supplement, please note that this does not cover the cruise.

Day 23: Halong Bay - Hanoi

Meals included: 1 breakfast

In the morning we sail back to the port, where we disembark and drive back to Hanoi. Arriving back in the capital, we have free time to wander around and enjoy some of the city’s other attractions. Perhaps afternoon tea at the Metropole Hotel?

Day 24: Hanoi

Meals included: 1 breakfast

The tour ends after breakfast. A transfer to the airport is not included; however, your tour leader will be on hand to advise you as to the options available.

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Your Trip

What's Included

• The services of Peregrine's expert English-speaking local tour leaders throuhout the tour, and local guides at some sites.

• Sightseeing (including entrance fees where relevant): Angkor Thom; Ta Prohm; Angkor Wat; Banteay Srei; Preah Khan; Phnom Penh's Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda; Cu Chi Tunnels; Tay Ninh - the headquarters of the Cao Dai religion; Po Nagar Cham tower; site of the My Lai Massacre; Hoi An historical sites; China Beach; Marble Mountain; Hai Van Pass; Hue's Citadel and Purple Forbidden City, Thien Mu Pagoda and Emperor Tu Duc's Mausoleum; and Hanoi's One Pillar Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh's House and Temple of Literature.

• Local flight from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh.

• Mekong Delta boat journey and visits to a Cham village, mosque, floating market and fish farm.

• Overnight homestay on Mekong Delta island, on beds in a large communal bedroom.

• Overnight cruise on a traditional boat on Halong Bay with a seafood lunch and dinner (non-seafood also available) and accommodation in twin-share cabins with en suite facilities and air-conditioning.

• Full day boat cruise on the South China Sea off Nha Trang, with a seafood lunch.

• Lunch at Sala Bai Hotel School prepared by underprivileged local youths training to work in the hospitality industry.

• Lunch at KOTO café in Hanoi – a project providing vocational hospitality training to underprivileged young people.

• Perfume River cruise in Hue.

• Overnight train from Hue to Hanoi in a 'soft sleeper' class compartment accommodating up to four people (with beds, pillow and sheets provided).

• Arrival transfer.

Summary of accommodation, transport & meals

Transport

• Boat
• Plane
• Private vehicle
• Sleeper train

Accommodation

• 19 nights Comfortable hotel
• 1 night Basic hotel
• 1 night Overnight train
• 1 night Homestay
• 1 night Boat

Meals

• 22 breakfasts
• 4 lunches
• 2 dinners

Highlight of Highlights

Mekong Delta Homestay

Explore the waterways of the bustling Mekong Delta, observing the interesting lifestyle of the local people along the shore and on their burbling single-gear, car-engine longtail boats which shoot up and down the river at break-neck speed. Journey towards Vinh Long, where we stay overnight on an island in a local homestay, situated on the waterways and filled with fruit gardens. The house is basic with all beds set up in a large communal room, but the experience is unique and offers great insight into the local way of life.

Not Included

International flights, airport departure taxes, visas, insurance, other meals, any optional tours and activities during free time, tips and items of a personal nature.

Responsible Travel

Koto

KOTO (Know One, Teach One), is a training centre and restaurant set up to help disadvantaged kids in Hanoi to get off the streets and into a stable living and working environment. Each year an integral part of the training is a field trip in Vietnam.

Every July/August, students participate in an annual field trip.

"The aim is not only to build teamwork but also to ensure the young people at KOTO get the chance to see more of their own incredible country. We want to teach a responsible attitude to the environment and give the trainees an opportunity to learn and grow through the experience. We also want to reward their hard work," explains founder, Jimmy Pham.

Peregrine continues to support KOTO and is currently fundraising through the Peregrine Community Trust to sponsor part of, or the complete, field trip each year, at a cost of between US$5000 and US$7000. In addition, KOTO greets every Peregrine group that comes to Hanoi with their fantastic menu and friendly service.

KOTO continues to grow and develop as many more street kids and disadvantaged youths pass through its doors and go on to successful jobs in the hospitality and tourism industries.

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Important Information

Local Tour Leaders
By employing and training local guides to lead our group holidays, there is a two-fold benefit. Firstly, we provide employment opportunities for the local community. Just as importantly is the benefit to you, the traveller. Your tour leader’s friendship, humour, passion and intimate knowledge of the region will be key factors in making your holiday a success. Peregrine will use different tour leaders to run the various sectors of this particular trip. We will have a local leader for Cambodia and Vietnam respectively. You will be unescorted on the flight from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh.

Tour guide licence regulations in Cambodia do not allow Siem Reap (Angkor) based guides to lead tours in Phnom Penh (and vice versa). Therefore, in Siem Reap you will be escorted by an experienced tour leader who has a detailed knowledge of the ancient temples at Angkor. On your final day in Siem Reap your leader will escort you to the airport for your flight to Phnom Penh, where you will be met by a licensed Phnom Penh based tour leader who will be with you until leave Cambodia.

Tipping
Tipping has become an accepted part of tourism in South East Asia. Your tour leader will be able to advise you in this area; however, as a guideline we would recommend tipping 10% of the total bill in restaurants and a small tip to hotel bellboys for carrying your bags.

At you pre-tour briefing your tour leader will discuss with you the idea of running a tipping kitty, whereby everybody contributes an equal amount and then the tour leader pays the tips and keeps a record of all monies spent (except restaurant tips). The record can be checked at any time and any money remaining at the end of the tour is returned to group members. This is often the easiest way to avoid the hassles of needing small change and knowing what is an appropriate amount to tip.

It is customary to tip your tour leader, at the end of the trip, if you are happy with the service. A minimum tip of US$2 per day, from each member of the group, is the usual amount expected.

Infrastructure and Tet Holiday Period
Please note that you are travelling in developing countries whose infrastructure may differ from what you expect in your homeland. Expect poor road conditions and be prepared for some inconveniences due to such things as restaurants or tourist sites being closed and our regular transport services not always being available, especially so during holiday periods such as Tet (Vietnamese New Year).

During Tet (Vietnamese New Year), most businesses will be closed as Vietnamese people usually spend this period returning to their homes and celebrating with their families. This will involve a major burden on all forms of transport, and despite booking in advance, tickets for planes and trains especially are extremely difficult to obtain. Even if bookings are obtained, transport services during this period will be overcrowded and heavy delays are to be expected, so you will need to make sure that you pack your sense of humour. In order to facilitate your travels during the Tet period, we may need to substitute your train/plane journey with a private bus trip, if required.

On this trip you may link up with passengers booked on other Peregrine tours.

About this Information

The information provided here is given in good faith and has been compiled with all reasonable care. However, things change and some of the information may become out of date. Please keep this in mind when you read it and check with us if you want to be sure about something. The document was correct at time of printing, but you can check online for the most up to date version.  If you have any queries, please contact your travel agent or our staff in Australia. We are here to help you!

Last Updated

3 November 2011

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