Elephant Kingdoms (Family) 14 days

Our journey begins in the vibrant city of Bangkok, visiting the majestic Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). We board a train northwards and on to Chiang Mai, where we visit the colourful villages that dot the region. We even have the chance to ride an elephant! We cross the mighty Mekong River into Laos and the UNESCO World Heritage listed historic town of Luang Prabang, where royal palaces and temples tell the story of the rich Lao culture and heritage. We drive to Vang Vieng, renowned for its amazing caves. Our final days are spent in the capital, Vientiane - a sleepy yet charming town on the Mekong River with its old buildings still exuding the mood of the French colonial days.

Trip Highlights

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  Laos Hut

  

  Pakbeng

  

  Cut-throat razor shave, Phonsavan

  

  Meet the friendly fisherman of four thousand islands, Si Phan Don.

  

  Elevated trekking on the Bolaven Plateau

  

  Swims and rope swings at Kuang Si Falls

  

  Refreshing sunset sips of Beer Lao on the riverbank at Vientiane.

  

  Croissants and baguettes in Vientiane, Laos

  

  The mysterious Plain of Jars

  

  Feed a monk and guarantee your place in the next life, Luang Prabang.

  

  The thousand Buddhas of Pak Ou Caves

  

  Drink some of the best coffee in the world on the banks of the Mekong.

  

  Slow boat through Laos, Mekong River.

  

  The tiny river town of Huay Xai

  

  Laos

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  Vietnam Inspire

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From Our Blog

Past Travellers' Ratings & Comments

• • five

   

  If like me you have been contemplating a group trip for some time JUST DO IT! It is a great way to meet like minded travellers & an all round fantastic experience.

  Take as little luggage as possible. Most of the hotels had fast, reliable inexpensive laundry service. The basic accommodation is all part of the fun.

   

  – Robyn, Croydon North, VIC, October 2nd 2009

• • five

  All 4 tour leaders were very professional, helpful & knowledgeable.  Nan was  lovely & it was good to see a woman  working in the tourism industry. A special mention to Peung from the Bangkok office who was with us for part of the week in Laos. She was so helpful & we were sad to loose her companionship. Tui was fantastic with a great sense of humour &  ability to chat about anything at all. His pride in his country & willingness to explain the cultural & religious aspects of Laos was commendable. He is very well liked & respected by the local people & the children in particular  to love his visits. Charney was also great & his knowledge of the Angkor Wat complex was amazing. Likewise S P in Phnom Penh who was like a walking encyclopedia.

   

  – Robyn , Croydon North, VIC , October 2nd 2009