Highlights of Vietnam and Thailand
Highlights of Vietnam and Thailand
$1994
Highlights of Vietnam and Thailand
16 Days Starting in Hanoi, Vietnam and ending in Bangkok, Thailand
Visiting: Hanoi, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Complex, Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Grottoes, Mua Cave, Halong Bay, Surprising Grotto, Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnels, Cai Be, Tien River, Tan Phong Island, Ba Kiệt's Ancient House, Phuket, Phi Phi Islands, Viking Cave, Tonsai Pier, Phi Phi, Ao Nang, Krabi, Krabi, Bangkok, Wat Traimit, Bangkok, Wat Pho, Bangkok, Wat Benjamaborpitr Bangkok
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 22
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Vietnam and Thailand with the "Highlights of Vietnam and Thailand" tour. Begin your adventure in Hanoi, exploring the vibrant Old Quarter and the serene landscapes of Ninh Binh. Cruise the stunning Ha Long Bay and delve into the historic Cu Chi Tunnels. Experience the bustling energy of Saigon and the tranquil beauty of the Mekong Delta. Transition to Thailand's tropical paradise, relaxing on Phuket's golden beaches and exploring the breathtaking Phi Phi Islands. Discover Krabi's dramatic cliffs and vibrant seafront, before concluding your journey in Bangkok, marveling at the Grand Palace and iconic temples. This small group tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and leisure, with comfortable accommodations and expert guides ensuring a seamless experience. Enjoy daily breakfasts, select meals, and all transportation, including regional flights and ferry transfers, as you uncover the rich heritage and natural wonders of these captivating countries.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: HANOI (ARRIVAL)
Location: Hanoi
Accommodation Name: hotel
Welcome to Hanoi! Upon arrival at the Hanoi International Airport, meet the driver and transfer to the hotel for check-in. While it may be the modern-day capital of Vietnam, Hanoi continues to retain its mystery and charm from past centuries. Narrow lanes and traditional shophouses invite visitors to explore the city, while many of its beautiful public spaces, lakes, parks, tree-lined boulevards, and monuments give the city an air of elegance and harmony with nature that is unique among Asian capitals.
Overnight in Hanoi
Day 2: HANOI (B/L/-)
Location: Hanoi, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Complex, Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning after the breakfast, our guide will pick you up from your hotel in the old quarter, driving to Tran Quoc Pagoda, which is located on an island east of West Lake (Tay Ho District) with a 1500-year history. It is famous for its sacred Buddha land, which attracts many Buddhists and visitors to Vietnam. Afterwards, continue your visit to the Ho Chi Minh complex (Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, the presidential palace, house on stilts final resting place of Uncle Ho, where He lived and worked from (1954 - 1969). Then, you will visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, the largest and undoubtedly the most interesting museum in Ha Noi and Vietnam. There is both indoor and outdoor section. While the in–house exhibition is particularly informative, the outdoor display and activities make the museum stand out from the rest. In the afternoon, you will follow the Temple of Literature, an ancient school of Thang Long and the first university in Vietnam, which is acknowledged as an ancient historical-cultural heritage which gives tourists a deeper understanding of Hanoi's years of culture and tradition. After that, make your way back to Hoa Lo Prison. It was built in 1899. The French kept mainly political prisoners awaiting sentencing at the nearby Court of Justice. American pilots who had been shot down and captured were kept as prisoners of war. The pilots called it, sarcastically, the Hanoi Hilton. John McCain was held here at various times during his five and a half years as a POW.Back to your hotel later on. Meal: Breakfast at the hotel, Lunch at a local restaurant.Note:- You should not wear shorts or revealing clothing to come to the mausoleum and temple.
Overnight in Hanoi
Day 3: HANOI – NINH BINH – HANOI (B/L/-)
Location: Hanoi, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Grottoes, Mua Cave, Hanoi
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning at 07:00 – 07:40 - Our guide will meet you at your hotel and start 110km on a shared deluxe van through the verdant landscape of the countryside. Short-break en route. 10:00 - Arrive at Glimmering Bai Dinh pagoda complexes, the largest pagoda, not only in Vietnam but also in Southeast Asia. It is scenically set on the foot hill of Dinh Mountain surrounded by amazing views of the exquisite river valley below and dotted limestone karsts which will take your breath away. These pagoda complexes stunningly boast an array of the most massive and magnificent architecture of Vietnamese tradition refined ever built that it takes a full day to explore everything. So you will visit some of the highlights that owned the national:500 stone statues of “La Han” (Arhats), 2 huge bronze bells, one weighs 27 tons, other weighs 36 tons. Visit The Quan Yin statue with thousands of arms and eyes and Visit the Gautama Buddha statue. 12:00 – Enjoy lunch at our restaurant with great local cuisine. 13:30 – Leave for the Trang An Grottoes, an outstanding natural beauty of majestic limestone massif at 20 square kilometres that rise dramatically from rice paddy fields. Deep into the linked chains of towering mountains are pristine places of mystical valleys, numerous freshwater ponds, and jungle. Embark on a traditional sampan gently rowed down the exquisite river through numerous caves: Lam Cave, Vang Cave, Dai Cave, Thanh Truot Cave, and Cao Sơn Temple, Suoi Tien Temple, Vu Lam Temple… 15:30 – Visit Mua Cave and start an amazing trek up to the top of Ngoa long mountain for watching the spectacular rice valley with a stunning view of the nature. 17:15 – Return to our bus and then come back to Hanoi at 19:30 – Drop you off at your hotel.
Overnight in Hanoi
Day 4: HANOI – HALONG (B/L/D)
Location: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Surprising Grotto
Accommodation Name: boat
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
From Hanoi, at 8 AM, a shuttle bus will pick you up and head East to Halong Bay, the pride of the Gulf of Tonkin, a Natural World Heritage as designated by UNESCO in 1994. Upon arrival in Halong, well take a big boat to cruise the Bay to discover the magnificent beauty of this “Ascending-dragon” bay, created by thousands of odd-shaped limestone rocks and karst grottoes. After a lunch of fresh seafood on board, we can visit the Surprising Grotto, stop for swimming or kayaking, pass floating villages and approach islets to enjoy their beauty in close distance. Back to the boat for dinner late afternoon. In the evening, attend activities on the boat or relax at your leisure.Please note: The program may be a little varied on the cruise you choose. Only Vietnamese & International food is available on the boat.
Overnight in Halong
Day 5: HALONG – HANOI – SAIGON (BY FLIGHT) (B/L/-)
Location: Halong Bay, Hanoi, Saigon
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Wake up early to enjoy the dawn on the sea in the early morning. The Vietnamese call the \"East Sea\" by a point-oriented name \"Eastern Sea\", so you may guess how miraculous seeing the sunrise over the islets of the Bay is. After breakfast, our boat will continue to cruise in marvellous areas, where almost every islet has its own name, adopting its shape or reminiscent like Sail Island, Fishermans head rock, Butterfly rock or Turtle islet etc. Disembark at noon & land transfer to Hanoi airport to take the flight to Saigon. Upon arrival, our driver will pick you up and drive to your hotel to check-in
Overnight in Saigon
Day 6: SAIGON CITY – CU CHI TUNNEL (B/L/-)
Location: Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnels
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
In the morning after the breakfast, you will visit Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification palace, which was built on the sight of the former Norodom palace. The Independence palace is a widely known landmark of Ho Chi Minh City and was designed by the architect Ngo Viet Thu. Continue seeing the beautiful structures from the French Colonial times such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office. Followed by the remarkable site of the War Remnants Museum. It has a vast display of both the Indochina wars. After that, you will have lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, you will be picked up to depart for Cu Chi tunnels and arrive after a drive of 1,5 hours. Our tour guide will give you an overview introduction to Cu Chi and its legendary history. A documentary film about the tunnels will explain the tunnels' histories and how fierce the war was in the area. You will be guided to the tunnels system, including the weapon factory, hospitals, and kitchens, and crawl under the tunnels. After that, you will have a chance to try delicious manioc, the leading food for guerilla warriors in Cu Chi during the war. Then, you can try to fire off an AK47 or MK16 or machine gun at the nearby shooting range (guests own account). Leave Cu Chi tunnels and return to Saigon at the end of your trip
Overnight in Saigon
Day 7: SAIGON – MEKONG DELTA – SAIGON (B/L/-)
Location: Ho Chi Minh City, Cai Be, Tien River, Tan Phong Island, Ba Kiệt's Ancient House
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning after breakfast, depart for Cai Be by car/van via Trung Luong Expressway. Upon arrival in Cai Be, have a boat ride on the Tien River. There, you can realize how diverse the area is and how rich orchard gardens are, which makes it the basket of fruit in the lower part of the Mekong River. Ramble in small villages where you will uncover the beauty of an ancient house and learn about the indigenous culture. Make a short visit to a small family business where the locals make coconut fudges and crispy rice popcorn. Savor delicious fresh fruit and feel the slow rhythms of Southern Vietnamese folk music – a kind of music entwined with the life and culture of the Mekong Delta people. Paddle through small canals – an exciting experience since you can look around, unwind, and soak up the wonderful atmosphere of the Upper Mekong Delta. Additionally, after arrival on Tan Phong Island, immerse yourself in nature's tranquility. At lunch time, you not only enjoy luscious food but also get closer to the locals as it is a chance to learn how to prepare Vietnamese specialties. The meal is cooked on your own and served in the heart of the local garden. Cycle on the village path through orchards. Meet the local islanders to learn more about the local daily life in the Mekong Delta. Visit Ba Kiệts ancient house. Take a boat ride back to Cai Be and meet your bus for the trip back to Ho Chi Minh City.
Overnight in Saigon
Day 8: SAIGON - PHUKET (BY FLIGHT) (B/-/-)
Location: Ho Chi Minh City, Phuket
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, free at leisure for relax or shopping (your own arrangement), followed by transfer to the airport for your onwards flight to Thailand.Welcome to Thailand! Upon arrival at Phuket International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy the day at leisure. You may explore the breathtaking beaches of Phuket.
Overnight in Phuket
Day 9: PHUKET (B/-/-)
Location: Phuket
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a delicious breakfast and spend your day at leisure. There are plenty of memorable things to do in Phuket. The island itself boasts a beautiful historical town, breathtaking viewpoints, and iconic cultural attractions. Perhaps you may be interested in our optional tours.
Overnight in Phuket
Day 10: PHUKET – PHI PHI (BY FERRY) (B/-/-)
Location: Phuket, Phi Phi Islands, Viking Cave, Tonsai Pier
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Rassada Pier in Phuket for a ferry to Phi Phi Island, one of the most beautiful island groups in Thailand. Phi Phi is famous for its limestone cliffs rising out of the emerald-green waters, white powdery beaches, and coral reefs with diving and snorkeling activities. A two-hour ferry ride will take you through the Viking Cave. Upon arrival at Tonsai Pier, you will need to pay an entrance fee (20 BAHT) and then transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. There are lots of things to do on Phi Phi Island to make the most of your time. From day activities involving the sun and sand to nighttime adventures involving fire shows and dancing on the beach, Phi Phi Island has something to offer for everyone.
Overnight in Phi Phi
Day 11: PHI PHI (B/-/-)
Location: Phi Phi
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you may enjoy a day at leisure. Stroll along the beach, go sunbathing or check out some of the water sports available.
Overnight in Phi Phi
Day 12: PHI PHI – KRABI (BY FERRY) (B/-/-)
Location: Phi Phi Islands, Tonsai Pier, Ao Nang, Krabi, Krabi
Accommodation Name: resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy your morning at leisure. You will be able to store your luggage at the hotel upon check out before being transferred back to Tonsai Pier later this afternoon. Prepare for a ferry ride to Krabi. The ferry will depart Tonsai Pier at 3:30 PM and arrive at Ao Nang, Krabi at 5:00 PM. Upon arrival in Krabi, you will be transferred to the resort.
Overnight in Krabi
Day 13: KRABI (B/-/-)
Location: Krabi
Accommodation Name: resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast at the hotel, spend your day at leisure. There is no place on earth quite like Krabi, one of Thailand's tourist jewels. With its jagged karst limestone islands rising from the azure sea, pure white beaches, and exotic temples on land, Krabi is a fascinating place to discover. From ancient Buddhist caves and seafront restaurants to water sports, golf, and vibrant nightlife, the coast around Krabi can offer a little bit of everything.
Overnight in Krabi
Day 14: KRABI – BANGKOK (BY FLIGHT) (B/-/-)
Location: Krabi, Phuket, Bangkok
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you will be transferred to Krabi Airport or travel overland to Phuket Airport for your flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival at Bangkok Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Bangkok
Day 15: BANGKOK (B/-/-)
Location: Bangkok, Wat Traimit, Bangkok, Wat Pho, Bangkok, Wat Benjamaborpitr, Bangkok
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a hearty breakfast, prepare for an immersive half-day city tour showcasing three of Bangkoks most remarkable and historically significant Buddhist temples.Your journey begins at Wat Traimit, home to the world-renowned Golden Buddha, a breathtaking statue crafted from 5 ½ tons of solid gold. This shimmering masterpiece, hidden under a plaster casing for centuries to protect it from invaders, was only rediscovered in the 1950s, making it one of Thailands most fascinating treasures.vNext, continue to Wat Pho, Bangkoks oldest and largest temple complex, renowned for housing the colossal Reclining Buddha. Stretching an impressive 46 meters in length and covered in gold leaf, this awe-inspiring statue symbolizes the Buddhas passage into Nirvana. Wat Pho is also famous for its intricately adorned Chedis of the Kings, a collection of towering, colorfully tiled stupas dedicated to past monarchs, as well as its reputation as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.Conclude your temple exploration at Wat Benjamaborpitr, also known as the Marble Temple, a stunning example of Thai craftsmanship. Constructed from pristine white Carrara marble imported from Italy, its elegant multi-tiered roofs and intricately carved gables reflect the harmonious fusion of Thai and European architectural influences. Inside, the main hall houses a magnificent bronze Buddha statue, while the surrounding courtyard features a striking collection of Buddha images from various regions of Thailand. After your temple tour, enjoy a leisurely afternoon at your own pace—whether by indulging in Bangkoks vibrant street food scene, exploring its lively markets, or relaxing at a riverside café. Alternatively, you may choose to enhance your experience by pre-booking one of several exciting optional tours tailored to your interests.
Overnight in Bangkok
Day 16: BANGKOK (B/-/-)
Location: Bangkok
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at your pace. Spend the rest of the morning at leisure. In the afternoon you will check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight home.
What's Included
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14 Nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed superior hotels or similar
Accommodation for 14 nights in superior hotels on a twin sharing basis is included.
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01 Night accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed vessel or similar
One night accommodation on a vessel on a twin sharing basis is included.
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All Arrival and departure airport transfers
All airport transfers for arrival and departure are included.
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All Transportation in AC modern vehicles
Transportation in air-conditioned modern vehicles is included.
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Services of English-speaking guide during the tours
The services of an English-speaking guide during the tours are included.
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All sightseeing as per the detailed itinerary
All sightseeing activities as per the detailed itinerary are included.
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All entrance fees as per the detailed itinerary
All entrance fees as per the detailed itinerary are included.
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Cruise in Halong Bay
A cruise in Halong Bay is included.
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Ferry tickets for Phuket to Phi Phi and Phi-phi to Krabi
Ferry tickets for travel from Phuket to Phi Phi and from Phi Phi to Krabi are included.
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Regional flight from Ho Chi Minh - Phuket
A regional flight from Ho Chi Minh to Phuket is included.
What's Not Included
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Items of a personal nature, tips & gratuities
Items of a personal nature, tips, and gratuities are not included.
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Visa fees
Visa fees are not included.
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All items not mentioned as included
Any items not specifically mentioned as included are excluded.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with all airport transfers and transportation in modern air-conditioned vehicles. Enjoy regional and domestic flights, ferry rides, and a cruise in Halong Bay, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout your adventure.
Accommodation
Enjoy 14 nights in superior hotels on a twin-sharing basis, complemented by a night on a vessel. Experience comfort and convenience with daily breakfast buffets, ensuring a restful stay throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 14 nights of accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed superior hotels or similar, and 1 night on a twin sharing basis at a listed vessel or similar.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, daily breakfast is included, along with 5 lunches at local restaurants, 1 brunch on board a cruise, and 1 special dinner at a local restaurant.
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What type of transportation is used during the tour?
All transportation is provided in air-conditioned modern vehicles. Additionally, there are ferry tickets for travel between Phuket, Phi Phi, and Krabi, as well as regional and domestic flights between Ho Chi Minh, Phuket, Krabi, and Bangkok.
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Is there a guide provided during the tour?
Yes, the services of an English-speaking guide are provided during the tours.
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Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour?
Yes, all entrance fees as per the detailed itinerary are included in the tour package.
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What activities are included in the Halong Bay cruise?
The Halong Bay cruise includes visiting the Surprising Grotto, swimming or kayaking, passing floating villages, and enjoying the beauty of islets up close.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels?
During the visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, you will watch a documentary film about the tunnels, explore the tunnel system including the weapon factory, hospitals, and kitchens, and have the opportunity to try manioc, the main food for guerilla warriors during the war.
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What experiences are offered in the Mekong Delta?
In the Mekong Delta, you will have a boat ride on the Tien River, visit small villages, see a family business making coconut fudges and crispy rice popcorn, enjoy fresh fruit and Southern Vietnamese folk music, paddle through small canals, and have a meal cooked on your own in a local garden.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.
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If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?
You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.
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Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?
In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.