Day 1: Siem Reap Arrival
Upon arrival, our driver and guide will welcome you at the airport and take you to the hotel in the central of Siem Reap city for check in. The rest of the afternoon is free and relax. 
Meals: N/A
Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

Day 2: Siem Reap – Angkor Temples (B,L)
Enjoy an entire day dedicated to discovering the mysterious Angkor temples. Wake before dawn and take a tuk-tuk ride to visit the jungle-entwined temple, Ta Prohm, at sunrise. Dawn is one of the most beautiful and haunting times to visit the temples, whose ancient sandstone blocks are gilded gold by the early morning rays. Return to the hotel for breakfast then set back out on a full day temple tour.  Starting with the magnificent Angkor Wat - the largest Khmer temple and finest example of Angkorian art and architecture, we proceed to Angkor Thom’s imposing South Gate, topped with the four serenely smiling faces of Avalokiteshvara. Next, visit Bayon temple, the Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King.   Today enjoy elephant riding from South Gate to Baygon Temples which brings you an exciting experience.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

Day 3: Siem Reap – Kulen Mountain (B,L)
After you have enjoyed breakfast at the hotel this morning, your private guide and driver will take you on a journey through the stunning countryside, to visit to the mysterious waterfall at Phnom Kulen. Phnom Kulen, also known as Kulen Mountain, translates to "Mountain of Lychees". This picturesque site, comprised of an isolated chain of small mountain plateaus, is widely regarded as the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire. During your exploration, you will also visit Preah Ang Thom, which houses a large statue of Buddha. It was built in the 16th century and is known to be the sacred and worshiping god for Kulen Mountain. You will also have the chance to visit several other beautiful sites, such as the Terrace of Sdach Kum Ling. Featuring a small brick-built temple in its center, these ruins were covered by lava for hundreds of years. Enjoy a cool refreshing swim in a nearby waterfall here, before sitting down to a delicious local Khmer.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

Day 4: Siem Reap – Phnom Penh (B,L)
This morning take a short flight to Phnom Penh. When arrive at Phnom Penh our guide and driver will welcome and transfer to hotel for check in.

In the afternoon, try out your best bargaining skills on a walk through the city’s expansive “Russian Market”, where you can find anything from motorcycle parts to valuable gems. Our cultural tour continues as we visit the National Museum an excellent introduction into ancient Khmer art and civilization and the Royal Palace, home to the royal family and the opulent silver pagoda. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Phnom Penh

Day 5: Phnom Penh City tour – Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (B,L)
Phnom Penh was founded in the 14th century and has long been a vital trading hub at the confluence of three rivers: the Mekong, Tonle Sap, and Bassac. Start the day learning about the Khmer Rouge and Cambodia’s recent history on a guided tour of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the notorious Choeung Ek “Killing Fields”.
Then your driver will take you to the airport for flight to Saigon. Arrive in Saigon, pick up and check in hotel. Free and relax. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Saigon

Day 6: An excursion to Mekong Delta – Ben Tre – Ba Lai Legend River (B,L)
Morning: Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to the picturesque Ben Tre Province, known as the land of coconut trees. Then, begin biking along village-paths and take in the many sights of the villagers performing their everyday activities and the peaceful landscapes of the Ben Tre countryside. Continue biking through the village to the boat pier and take a rowing-boat along the palm canal. On the way you can see the homes and activities of the people that live by the waterside. Stop to visit a local house‘s coconut gardens where you can enjoy tropical fruits. Keep up the cycling along a village road with the vast gardens of coconuts on either side. After such an engaging morning of biking and paddling you should be ready to enjoy a specially prepared lunch featuring traditional dishes of the Mekong River region in a small beautiful local restaurant.

Afternoon: Your afternoon starts with a walk to the departure point for your motorboat journey. The trip will take you along Ba Lai Legend River which is beautifully fringed with palm trees. As you head along the river you will stop to visit the coconut coir manufacturing facility to see the interesting processes first hand. Take in the feeling of the peaceful, simple life that the inhabitants of the riverside enjoy. You will also discover some of the coconut processing workshops which are located along the banks. At the end of the boat tour you will be picked up by your bus. Then, travel back to Ho Chi Minh City.  

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City sightseeing – Cu Chi tunnels – Fly to Hanoi (B,L)
Depart Hotel early in the morning for Cu Chi to visit the Tunnels. Cu Chi Tunnels are a network of underground tunnels begun in 1948 by the Viet Minh in their struggle against the French. These tunnels were expanded and used by the Viet Cong during the war between Vietnam and America. Americans called this the 'Iron Triangle' and was a stronghold of the Vietcong for almost thirty years. Walk underground in the tunnels.

In the afternoon, you will take in the highlights of Ho Chi Minh starting with an exploration of Saigon's turbulent past with visits to the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. Next, sample City‘s finest examples of French colonial architecture with a visit to the Notre Dame cathedral and Post Office. 

In the late afternoon, take a flight to Hanoi. Up on arrival, our guide will welcome you and take you to your hotel in the Old Quarter.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Day 8: Hanoi - Halong Bay overnight cruise (B,L,D)
This morning, depart Hanoi through the Red River Delta for Halong Bay (3.5 hours driving). Upon arrival, embark on the cruise then start cruising among the limestone islands. Keep cruising to the quiet area while enjoy breath-taking seascape along the way, until enjoy sunset party on sundeck and admire the best moments of the day when the sun starts to set. Dinner is served around 19.00 then it’s time for you to socialize with other guests, to take part in board games, fishing for squid or just to laze around.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight cruise

Day 9: Halong Bay Cruise – Hanoi (B,L)
Wake up in the morning to the calming sound of the waves crashing on the nearby islands. Enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning and relax. Sitting on the upper deck, you can enjoy the breath - taking beauty of the rocky Islands rising from the crystal-clear waters of the Bay. The quiet is almost eerie; in summer you can hear birds singing, even that cicadas chirping ashore and the gentle lapping of the waves against our boat, the perfect soundtrack to accompany the fresh air and gentle breeze. Our boat start cruising back and brunch buffet will be served on the way. Disembark around noon and transfer back to your hotel in Hanoi.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Day 10: Hanoi City tour – Fly to Yangon (B,L)
Today you have a full day to explore Vietnam’s charming capital. With its wide tree-lined boulevards, French colonial architecture, peaceful lakes and ancient oriental pagodas, Hanoi is an eclectic mix that offers something for everyone. Your city tour will take you to Hanoi’s key sites: the Ho Chi Minh Complex (Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum and stilt house), the nearby One Pillar Pagoda; the Presidential Palace; the Temple of Literature; and one of the city's museums (a choice between the Hoa Lo Prison and the Ethnology Museum). 

Then your driver will take you to the airport for flight to Yangon. Up on arrival, pick up and check in hotel. Free and relax.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

Day 11: Yangon – Fly to Bagan (B,L)
Today we have an early morning flight Bagan, in fact, the only direct flight. Bagan is Myanmar’s archaeological wonderland, where over 3,000 ancient temples blossom from the countryside. Start your tour with a trip to the bustling Nyang U Market in Old Bagan then explore the beautiful, gold leaf Shwezigon Pagoda and learn about Burmese Buddhist traditions. We continue our tour with a visit to Ananda Temple, stopping along the way on the Bagan plains to admire some of the surrounding temples. In the afternoon, take a tour of a local lacquer ware workshop and learn how this traditional piece of art is made.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

Day 12: Highlights of Bagan (B,L)
After breakfast, start with an exotic horse cart ride to one of the biggest temples in Bagan: Nan Paya Pagoda and many other interesting sites nearby, continue with sightseeing to Minkaba Gubyaukyi Temple, take note of the architectural difference in MyaZedi Pagoda before heading to Manuha Temple. The highlight of today is the panoramic sunset view from the second highest pagoda of Bagan, the ShweSandaw Pagoda.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Bagan

Day 13: Bagan – Heho – Inle Lake (B,L)
Leave Mandalay for Heho. Inle Lake, the second largest lake in Myanmar is located 900 meters above sea level and is home to the Intha people, famous for their one leg rowing technique.

Upon arrival, board a motorboat for a sightseeing tour to Phaungdawoo Pagoda, famed for its richly gilded five small Buddha images and believed to be the holiest pagoda in Inle Lake. Our next stop is Ngaphechaung Monastery, known as “Jumping Cat Pagoda”. As you travel closer to Nam Pan Village, have a look at cotton and lotus weaving factories and cigar making houses. These sites will give you a true sense of traditional Intha life.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Inle Lake

Day 14: Inle Lake – Indein – Inle Lake (B,L)
This morning, you will visit the 5-Day Market, which is held in different villages surrounding the lake. This is definitely a fascinating place to enjoy the scene of local tribes in their colorful clothes and exotic market atmosphere.

After lunch, the boat will take you to beautiful temple of Indein, located on the hill overlooking the lake. It will certainly be relaxing to walk along the corridor and enjoy the giant columns which have been left nature for centuries.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Inle Lake

Day 15: Inle Lake – Heho – Yangon (B,L)
Depart Inle Lake for Yangon. Spend the full day exploring Yangon and its highlights from Sule Pagoda, in the heart of Yangon to Chaukhtayi Pagoda and Kandawgyi Lake. After lunch, discover the most outstanding pagoda in Yangon: Shwedagon Pagoda. The golden pagoda is really a must see while you are in Myanmar. Finish off the afternoon with some shopping at Scott Market.

Your highlight for this evening is dinner in Karaweik Palace overlooking the Royal Lake and Shwedagon Tower. Fine Burmese food will be served for dinner followed by an amazing cultural show.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Yangon

Day 16: Yangon – Departure (B)
After breakfast, you are free until your departure time. Our driver will transfer you to Yangon International Airport for the flight home.

Meals: Breakfast

Tour ends.

This tour is built upon our firsthand knowledge & experience, offering you the best choices available. The price of this trip varies depending on the number of people in your party, dates of departure, and availability of ground services.

The prices are quoted in US Dollars per person based on 2 pax/room

Categories	2 pax	4 pax	6 - 8 pax	Single Sup.
Superior	1550	1299	1140	409
First-class	1743	1492	1303	589
Deluxe	2079	1827	1669	936
Child from 4 – 10 years old: 75%

Please click on CUSTOMIZE YOUR TRIPS and supply the required information, enabling us to send you your personalized quote within 24 hours!

Note: Amendments CAN be made to this tour to suite your requirements, but may incur price changes

WHAT'S INCLUDED?
• Accommodation with daily breakfast at selected hotels or similar
• Private vehicles and drivers
• Transport from Hanoi to Halong and return by shuttle bus
• Private English speaking guides (Other languages if available, upon request)
• Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner)
• Entrance fees for all mentioned sights visited
• Drinking water available on the vehicles.
• Vietnam visa approval letter
• Service Charge & Government Taxes

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?
• International flights and domestic flights
• Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, drinks, etc.)
• Any bank fees or charges at your end
• Meals other than those mentioned in the itinerary
• Personal Travel Insurance
• Tips for tour guide and driver in each region
• Peak season or public holidays surcharge if any
• Compulsory Gala dinner on X-Mas or New Year if any
• Vietnam visa stamp fee, Cambodia and Myanmar visa fee
• Other services not mentioned above

HOTEL SELECTION:

The hotels listed below are our suggestions for the best value on this tour.  However, Asia Essence Tours offers many more options of hand-picked hotels, with different "star ratings", allowing you to customize the vacation to meet your taste and budget.
  

LOCATIONS	SUPERIOR CATEGORY	FIRST CLASS CATEGORY	DELUXE CATEGORY
Hanoi	HM Boutique	The Chi	Melia
Halong Bay	V'Spirit	La Vela Classic	Aphrodite Luxury
HCM City	Le Duy	Paragon Saigon	Majestic Saigon
Siem Reap	La Niche D’Angkor Boutique	Tara Angkor	Angkor Village Resort & Spa
Phnom Penh	Anise	Sunway Phnom Penh	Phnom Penh Hotel & Residence
Yangon	Hotel Esta Yangon	Best Western Green Hill	Chatrium Royal Lake
Bagan	Bawga Theiddhi	Myanmar Treasure Resort	Aye Yar River View Resort
Inle	Royal Inlay Hotel (Nyaungshwe)	Inle Resort	Pristine Lotus Spa Resort

ABOUT HOTELS:

We, at Asia Essence Tours, are aware that a good tour must have good hotels. As the hotel cost will be the major expense of your vacation in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, it is essential that all of the hotels chosen by us are the highest quality for the price paid. All of our prices are based on twin, double or queen shared rooms.

BELOW IS AN EXPLANATION OF THE HOTEL "STAR" RATINGS:

 

Superior/ 3 Star (from US$ 40 - US$ 60 per room/night)

The Superior/ 3 Star Hotels are good value and normally centrally located. They all have comfortable en-suite rooms, good amenities and public areas to relax in. They are usually family run hotels, so offer great personalized service for your enjoyment and comfort. Most first class properties offer an in-house restaurant, and some may even have a swimming pool!

First-Class/ 4 star (from US$ 80 - US$ 110/ per room/night)

The 4* First-Class Hotels offer a wide range of services. Many superior hotels feature a choice of several in-house restaurants. In addition virtually all of them have a swimming pool. Some may even feature a spa or health club. This grade of hotel offers more for your enjoyment and comfort, while still remaining affordable.

Deluxe/ 5 Star (from US$120 - US$ 180++/ per room/night)

These 5* Deluxe hotels are usually owned by Worldwide, well known Hotel chains. The deluxe hotels feature excellent locations, offer the highest standards of service and facilities, and are known as the best hotels in each region. Facilities such as swimming pools and spas are the norm, and guest rooms are luxurious. These hotels offer first class service and amenities throughout.

ASIA ESSENCE TOURS™ BESPOKE STYLE SUITS EVERYONE

Flexibility: The sample itinerary can be modified to suit your interests, budget as well as your personal wishes including departure date, duration, accommodation used & how long you spend in each destination.

Tailor-Made Journey: This trip can be tailor made to create a unique holiday for your individual requirements by travel experts with intimate knowledge of the destination. It is a more individual trip that will suit those who enjoy immersing themselves in new cultures and environments, with the flexibility to plan a trip at your own pace. Quality and value are the hallmark of the trips, with most services being provided on a private basis.

Commitment to Excellence: We enjoys excellent relationships with all of the highly regarded hotels and finest properties in our destinations as well as with service suppliers so that we are able to negotiate the most attractive prices for our clients, which enables us to provide exclusive holidays and affordable special offers. We create one-of-a-kind vacations for groups and individuals. We love our destinations and do our best to make sure that our customers feel the same way. Our job is to make sure that everyone gets the right balance of comfort and excitement to enjoy the experience of a lifetime.