INDOCHINA FAMILY HOLIDAY

DAY 1: INDOCHINA FAMILY HOLIDAYS:  ARRIVAL – LUANG PRABANG SIGHTSEEING TOURS 

On arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Luang Prabang – the ancient first capital of Lane Xang kingdom, the center of religious life in Laos and today the World Heritage City. After a short rest, we visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrine of Wat Aham and Wat Mai.

We then climb up to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as a beautiful sunset view of the city and the Mekong River. From there, we explore the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by the hilltribe and local people surrounding Luang Prabang.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

DAY 2: INDOCHINA FAMILY HOLIDAYS:  LUANG PRABANG BOAT TRIP TO PAKOU CAVE (B/L/-)

After breakfast, we depart hotel to the boat landing, and take an excursion (a few hours) by boat, upstream on the Mekong to visit Pak Ou cave in the side of a lime stone cliff and opposite of the mouth of the Mekong and Ou rivers. The sanctuaries at Pak Ou consist of two large caves, both repositories for thousands of Buddha images, which range from mere centimeter to two meters in height.

En route, Lao typical villages are barely visible behind a screen of foliage. Slender canoes bobbing by the shore, bamboo poles and floats mark the location of nets and fish traps. Our first stop will be at Ban Muangkeo, a well-known village for Lao traditional rice whisky, namely Laoh-Khao to be distilled. We are welcome to taste it and also take away. Lunch is at a riverside restaurant.  We arrive back at Luang Prabang in late afternoon, and continue by car to outskirt of town to visit Ban Xangkhong, a well-known village for its wood paper making and also Lao silk weavings with natural dyes. 

DAY 3: INDOCHINA FAMILY HOLIDAYS: LUANG PRABANG CITY TOURS – HANOI (noon flight) (B/-/-)

The third day in Luang Prabang , we take a sightseeing tour of the sacred city of temples, of which nearly fifty temples still remain in the town and surrounding areas. Visit Wat Visoun, the 16th century temple served as a small museum for religious artifacts; Wat Aham, the early 19th century temple, whose two guardian figures at the foot of the steps which represent two characters from the Ramayana – Hanuman, the Monkey God and a fierce Yaksa;

Wat Xiengthong, the 16th century temple which, more than any temples in Luang Prabang, epitomizes all the elegance and grace of Luang Prabang architecture; Phousi Hill, the 328 steps leads to the summit of Phousi hill that dominates the sky-line of Luang Prabang overlooking the finest panoramic view in the whole Luang Prabang. Then, we visit the National Museum (closed Tuesdays) at the former Royal Palace.

It displays a collection of artefacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through to the last sovereign. There will also be time for us to look around the Central Market. After visiting these sights, there may be free time (depending on your flight) to venture into town and stroll around the shopping area. The tour ends after your transfer to the airport for departure afternoon to Ha Noi.

DAY 4: INDOCHINA FAMILY HOLIDAYS:  HANOI FULL-DAY SIGHTSEEING TOURS (B/-/-)

Today we commence our exploration of Hanoi with the Ho Chi Minh Complex, which contains the mausoleum of the nation’s founder Ho Chi Minh, the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts. Close to this complex is the One Pillar Pagoda, whose origins date back to the foundation of city. We follow it with a visit to the Temple of Literature, which is well known as the first university of Vietnam and the History Museum with an excellent collection of artifacts illustrating the Vietnamese history.

Later on, we will take a short visit at Hilton Prison where Vietnamese soldiers did captured & detained American pilots from 1967 till 1973 to learn more about the history of Vietnam war against American Imperialists. In this afternoon, visiting the outlaying Ethnologic Museum is also a major part of our sightseeing.

This gleaming mansion is dedicated to Vietnam’s 54 ethnic group s. Afterwards we drive to the Tran Quoc Pagoda and Quan Thanh Temple. They are some major highlights set by the beautiful West Lake. We also visit the old quarters and the peaceful lake of Hoan Kiem with its sacred temple. In front of this lake is the famous water puppet theatre where we will see a fantastic performance.

O/N in Ha Noi. 

DAY 5: INDOCHINA FAMILY HOLIDAYS: HANOI FAMILY TOURS TO HALONG BAY – OVERNIGHT ON CRUISE IN HALONG BAY (B/L/D)

After having breakfast at hotel, you will be picked by our guide & driver at hotel then driven to Halong Bay – 170km from the East of Hanoi. On the way, you will have chances to stop by green paddies to see the Vietnamese farmers working on their fields or you might get by a Humanity Center where we are nursing the disabled Children who are left behind the War & they are victims of Agent Oranges caused by American troops.

At around 12:00, you will reach to Halong Bay recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 1994. The islands in Ha Long Bay are mainly limestone and schist islands most lying in the two main areas: the southeastern part of Bai Tu Long Bay and southwestern part of Ha Long Bay.

They are the result of many times of rising and lowering processes of the continent to form a karst. The process of nearly full erosion and weathering of the karst created the unique Ha Long Bay in the world. In 2000, UNESCO recognized it as the World Heritage for the second time for its geographical and geomorphologic values.  

On arrival at 12h30, We are welcome on the traditional boat and have welcome drink. Start the boat trip to visit Halong Bay with outstanding natural beauty of many Islands such as Con Cho Island, Dinh Huong Island, Canh Buom Island, Ga Choi Island  and have fresh seafood lunch served on board.

In the afternoon, you will have opportunity to visit one of the most beautiful cave in Ha long Bay- Sung Sot Cave or Suprising Cave, then wimming on Titop or do kayak to visit Luon Cave. Watching sunset. Fishing with seine and owing bamboo boat (on request)
Dinner and overnight on boat.

DAY 6: INDOCHINA FAMILY HOLIDAYS: HALONG BAY CRUISE TOURS – HANOI – HUE CITY TOURS ( Afternoon flight) ( B/L/D)

In this morning, we will keep on our journey by junk-boat to to explore more islands & natural beauties of Halong Bay.

At around 10:30: you will have a brunch served on cruise before reaching to Halong Harbour at around

12:00. Right here our car will be at disposal to pick you up then drive back to Hanoi with stopover at Dong Trieu Ceramic village.

At around 15:30: You will get to Hanoi & the rest of time you will be free on your own

In the afternoon,you will be transferred to Noi Bai airport for a afternoon flight to Hue. Upon arrival, you will be escorted by our guide & driver then driven to your hotel for a drop of your luggage. 

DAY 7: INDOCHINA FAMILY HOLIDAYS: HUE SIGHTSEEING TOURS TO DANANG – HOIAN FAMILY TOURS (B/-/-) 

In this morning, before leaving to Danang we will take a short drive though the rolling hill to see the elaborate royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc and the famous Tu Hieu Pagoda. The scenic 4-hour drive via Hai Van Pass offers spectacular views of mountains, the sea, idyllic beaches and villages (we can choose the shorter way by driving through the tunnel). 

Upon arrival Da Nang, we will take a visit to Cham Museum formerly known as the Ecole Francaise d’Extreme Orient. This museum contains many exquisite limestone carvings from the vanquished Kingdom of Champa which has been the central coastal littoral prior to the march of the Vietnamese nation southward.

Then a visit to Marble Mountains with its beautiful grottoes and temples whose peaks represent the five elements of the universe. Later on, we keep on rolling further southward to Hoi An, which was originally one of major trading centers of Southeast Asia in the 16th century.

O/N in Hoi An.

DAY 8: INDOCHINA FAMILY HOLIDAYS: HOIAN SIGHTSEEING TOURS (B/-/-)

Hoi An which was originally a Cham seaport but has been influenced down centuries by a myriad of traders from various cultures. There are plenty to see in this tranquil and delightful town, some of which are the famous Japanese Covered Bridges, the Pottery Museum, the 200 years old Tamky House, the Chua Ong Pagoda and the vibrant market.

We include these sites in an enchanting walking tour past many low tiled houses scattered along the small streets and assembly halls which reflect the town’s multi-cultural past . The rest of time, you will be free on your own

O/N in Hoi An.

DAY 9: INDOCHINA FAMILY HOLIDAYS: DA NANG – FLIGHT TO SAIGON – SAIGON CITY TOUR ( By Morning flight)  (B/-/-) 

After having breakfast at hotel, you will be transferred to Da Nang airport for a short morning flight to Ho Chi Minh. On arrival you are met by our guide and transferred to hotel. This metropolis ,contradiction of its northern counterpart, is crowded with bikes and motorbikes, excited by numerous shopping areas and sidewalk cafes. An afternoon will acquaints us with some major sights of Ho Chi Minh.

We drive past many lively streets on our way to the Reunification Palace. This mansion was the former residence of the President of South Vietnam until end of April 1975. Close to the palace are some striking French colonial structures including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Sai Gon Post Office. We follow these with a visit to the Jade Emperor Pagoda and the War remnant exhibit. The final stop is Ben Thanh Market where anything and everything is for sale!. 

O/N in Ho Chi Minh. 

DAY 10: INDOCHINA FAMILY HOLIDAYS: SAIGON SIGHTSEEING TOURS TO TAY NINH – CUCHI TUNNELS  (B/-/-)

The incredible underground network in Cu Chi stretched over 200 kilometres and became legendary during the American war. The extensive tunnels have been specially constructed with living areas, weapon factories, filed hospitals, command centres, plus accommodation. Today we have an excursion to Cu Chi Tunnels to visit an exposition hall and a widened section of the tunnels to get a feel of the underground life.

There are also possibilities to fire off rounds from an AK47 or MK16 at the nearby rifle range. Upon leaving Cu Chi we drive a short distance to Tay Ninh, the headquarters of Cao Dai Sect . This religion was founded in 1923 and now numbers over 2 million members.

We arrive in time to see the ornate temple of Cao Dai and attend the fantastic mid-day service when the followers fill the hall wearing colored robes. These costumes are a symbol of the curious combination of the Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism.

O/N in Ho Chi Minh. 

DAY 11: INDOCHINA FAMILY HOLIDAYS: SAIGON FULL-DAY TOURS TO MEKONG DELTA  (B/L/-)

Heading out of town, we travel by roads to the Mekong Delta. This plain region boasts the largest rice bowl of Vietnam. On arrival in My Tho we board a boat navigating around the intricate small canals, which is a great way to observe the local lifestyle close-up and catch a view dotted by many islands. The exciting river trip will pass by the lush green vegetation towards the famous Unicorn Island where we have a chance to stroll around an orchard, taste many seasonal fruits and see farmers at work.

We navigate some narrower canals using small rowing boats to Ben Tre Province for an interesting visit to some local industries. The extra enjoyment is a lunch at one of the famous local eating spots. We drive back to Ho Chi Minh, stopping off en route to see the beautiful Ving Trang Pagoda and the Saigon’s Chinatown, locally named Cho Lon. This bustling area is crammed with sacred temples and mysterious, narrow lanes. 

O/N in Ho Chi Minh. 

DAY 12: INDOCHINA FAMILY HOLIDAYS: SAIGON – FLIGHT TO SIEMREAP – ANGKOR WAT FAMILY TOURS (BY MORNING FLIGHT)(B/-/-)

Morning breaskfast at your hotel, we tranfer you to the airport for flight to Siem Riep. Upon arrival, you will be met by our guide and transferred to hotel for check in and lunch. 

In the afternoon, it is time to visit to South Gate of Angkor Thom, the famous Bayon, Baphoun, the Terrace of Temple, Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King. 

We have chance to discover Angkor National Museum and visit one of the great wonders of the world and symbol of the heart and soul of the Cambodia, Angkor Wat and view wonderful sunset from the top of Phnom Bakheng Hills. Tonight you will enjoy dinner with Khmer Apsara Dance Show. Accommodation at hotel

Optional for elephant riding at Bayon temple or ride up/down at Bakheng.

DAY 13: INDOCHINA FAMILY HOLIDAYS: ANGKOR WATT SIGHTSEING TOURS AT TEMPLES (B/L/-)  

Optional for view sunrise (early morning) Breakfast at the hotel .Today we drive to visit Kbal Spean, 50km northeast of Siem Reap or 18km from Banteay Srei. The original “River of Thousand Lingams”, Kbal Spean is an intricately carved riverbed deep in the foothills of the Cambodian jungle.

Visit to Banteay Srei temple (10th cntury), regarded as the jewel in the crown of classical Khmer Art. Then contnue your visit to Banteay Samre, build in the third quarter of the 12th century. it consists of a central temple with four wings preceded by a hall and accompany by two libraries, the southern example remaerkably well presserved. Then end your visit at Rolous Group: Preah Ko, Lolei and Bkhong temple. Lunch at local restaurant

Accommodation at hotel.

DAY 14: INDOCHINA FAMILY HOLIDAYS: SIEM REAP – DEPARTURE (B/-/-)

Breakfast at the hotel .We board on boat in Tonle Sap Lake. Here, enjoy a brief cruise past floating villages complete with schools, restaurants, and hospitals. Lunch at local restaurant
Free leisure for your own time for rolling at local market for shopping until transfer to Siem Reap International airport departure flight.

* INCLUDING: 
•    Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle with driver
•    Domestic Air-tickets: Hanoi – Hue, Da Nang – Sai Gon  •    Accommodation in hotels (Twin / Double shared room) 
•    Meals as indicated: B = breakfast, L = lunch & D = Dinner
•    Regional English or French speaking guide
•    Entrance fee to indicated sights
•    Boat trip in Mekong, Hue
•    Cruising trip in Ha Long Bay
•    Pure bottled water & wipes
•    Visa Approval Letter to Vietnam

* EXCLUDING:
International flights in / out (Luong Prabang – Ha Noi) ( Sai Gon – Siem Reap ), Other meals, tip, drinks, airport tax, single room, personal expenses, insurance,…