Cambodia, Vietnam
& Thailand
17 Days / 16 Nights + Optional Extensions | January 2026
Take an unforgettable adventure through Southeast Asia, where we immerse ourselves in the cultural heritage of Indochina, from beautiful palaces to Buddhist temples and colorful, chaotic city markets. We will cruise the calm waters of the otherworldly Ha Long Bay in Vietnam. We'll step back into the world of the country's last emperors in Hue, soak up the old-world charm of Hoi An, and be awed by the endless energy of Ho Chi Minh City. In Cambodia, you will explore the vine-covered courtyards and temples of Angkor Wat. Lastly, in Bangkok enjoy world-famous Thai cuisine and culture. This is a journey into the heart and soul of this captivating region and its equally enchanting people.
Day 1: January 5
Hanoi
Xin chao! Welcome to Hanoi! Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm at the hotel and a group dinner at KOTO restaurant. This organization is dedicated to developing the hospitality careers of disadvantaged youth.
Hanoi offers plenty of enticing experiences. Perhaps head to the city’s colorful old quarter and explore the charming jumble of shops and cafés, or check out the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum, showcasing ancient through to contemporary Vietnamese art. Or maybe take it at your own pace and wander the Old Quarter to admire the city’s French-colonial architecture.
Day 2: January 6
Hanoi – Halong Bay
As the sun rises over Hanoi, you embark on a journey to Ha Long Bay, a place of otherworldly beauty. The scenic drive reveals the lush Vietnamese countryside, with rice fields stretching to the horizon. Upon reaching the harbor, you step aboard a luxurious small ship, your home for the next 24 hours. The ship sets sail, and you enter a realm of natural wonder.
Towering limestone karsts emerge from the emerald waters, creating a surreal landscape that feels like a dream. As you indulge in a sumptuous seafood lunch, you can't help but marvel at the flavors and the breathtaking views that surround you. Exploring the hidden caves and islands, you feel a sense of adventure and serenity. Whether kayaking through secluded lagoons or lounging on the sundeck, time seems to stand still in this ethereal paradise.
As the day fades into night, the sunset paints the sky with hues of pink and orange, a magical backdrop for a memorable dinner on board the ship. Rosy Cruises – Junior Suite Balcony - https://rosycruise.com/ or similar The boat has twin-share cabins with en suite facilities and air.
Day 3: January 7
Halong Bay - Hanoi
You'd be forgiven for thinking you were still dreaming upon waking up today. Soak up the scenery of Halong Bay from your floating accommodation and take in those turquoise water views one last time before hitting the road toward Hanoi. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch on the boat. We will be back to the harbor and disembark at Ha Long cruise port at around noon time. Before you leave the memorable scenery behind, it’s time for one last stop. The Green Life Centre is committed to turning Halong Bay’s trash into treasure by collecting discarded items and skillfully turning them into beautiful handicrafts. Meet the team behind this important cause and learn how to transform rubbish into a useful reusable bag. Then return by bus to Hanoi. Arrive late afternoon and enjoy free time.
Day 4: January 8
Hue
This morning, take a short flight to Hue (approximately 1 hour). Once the imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue holds the treasures of the country’s royal past. Upon arrival, we will visit Imperial Citadel, which is the best-preserved remnant of a large citadel and Royal center that once existed on this fortified site. The unique fortifications are fascinating, even though much of this place has sadly been destroyed by war. The foliage-covered ruins make for an interesting exploration.
Then continue to explore the Forbidden Purple City, which was almost totally wiped out during the Tet Offensive in 1968. The gaping holes left by bombs give an idea of the destruction wreaked upon the country during the war.
Day 5: January 9
Hue
See Hue like a local – from the back of a motorbike! Straddle the saddle and whiz around town with a local guide, taking in historic and contemporary sights along the way. (Or choose a car ride) Next, stop at Thanh Toan to see the 18th-century covered bridge and villagers shopping at their local market. Visit the 17th-century active Buddhist monastery of Thien Mu Pagoda. See the car that belonged to Thich Quang Duc, the monk who self-immolated in 1963 in protest against the treatment of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese regime. For lunch, savor a vegetarian feast in a nunnery. Finish at the lakeside royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc before heading back to town.
Day 6: January 10
Hue - Hoi An
Traveling by bus (approximately 4 hours), head south through coastal rice paddies before traversing the spectacular Hai Van Pass. You'll all be treated to some stunning mountain scenery en route. After a brief visit to the beautiful China Beach, arrive at Hoi An. Recently declared a World Heritage site, Hoi An and its delicate beauty is being restored and preserved. Known as Faifo to early Western traders, it was one of South East Asia's major international ports during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Today, parts of it look exactly as they did more than a century ago – it's the sort of place that grows on you the more you explore it. Your tour leader will take you on a sightseeing walk through the Old Town to visit a handful of the city's major attractions. You’ll also be given a sightseeing pass so you can further explore select attractions at your leisure.
Day 7: January 11
Hoi An
Today is a mostly-free day to explore Hoi An. Maybe browse the cobbled streets and art galleries or hire a bike and cycle through rice paddies out to An Bang Beach. Maybe browse for paintings, ceramics and colorful cloth lanterns in the town’s markets and preserved Chinese shophouses. If you’re craving a new look, you could pay a visit to one of the hundreds of tailors and get something special made. Hoi An is also known for its delicious regional food, so be sure to enjoy a meal at a riverside restaurant or perhaps partake in a cooking class. We have included your choice of one of the following optional activities at no charge with a minimum group size of four to make it work.
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My Son Sanctuary Half-Day Trip
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Cooking class with a local chef
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An Bang Beach Biking and Picnic Lunch
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Hoi An Food Adventure
Day 8: January 12
Hoi An – Danang – Ho Chi Minh City
Today take a short, early morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City (included). Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City has a fascinating history and is arguably Vietnam’s capital of commerce and culture. After landing, take a sightseeing tour around the city by bus. Pass the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Opera House, then stop in at the War Remnants Museum to discover some of the sobering stories of the 20-year long war.
Day 9: January 13
Ho Chi Minh City
Today you'll travel south by private minibus (approximately 3 hours) and spend the day exploring the Mekong Delta. On arrival, board a private boat and traverse the intricate waterways – soak up the tranquil surrounds and admire the breathtaking views as you float through this fertile landscape, often referred to as ‘The rice bowl of Vietnam’. Disembark at Ben Tre and visit the coconut gardens, stopping at a local home to sample tropical fruits and coconut jams before paddling in sampans (small rowing boats). Take a tuk-tuk tour around the villages, learning about rural life and how the locals make their living. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the heart of the delta, sampling regional specialties such as the famous elephant ear fish. Then it’s back to the boat to cruise the delta’s major waterways to Ben Tre boat pier. Afterwards, return to Chi Minh City Hotel by bus. In the evening, join your leader at a local restaurant, sharing stories and reflecting on the highlights of your adventure with your newfound friends while enjoying the Vietnamese delicious food.
Day 10: January 14
Ho Chi Minh City – Phnom Penh
Today, say goodbye to Vietnam and we will transfer to the airport for your included flight to Phnom Penh. Sua S’dei! Welcome to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Upon arrival at Phnom Penh international airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Your adventure officially begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. Cambodia’s capital city is set on a major junction of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers and boasts some fine examples of French-inspired architecture.
Day 11: January 15
Phnom Penh
Today, confront Cambodia's tragic past on a guided tour of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21), a former school which served as a Khmer Rouge torture center. It's estimated that more than 20,000 people were held there. You’ll also head out to the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. Afterwards, you may wish to learn about a brighter period in Cambodian history from an optional visit to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Wat Phnom, shrouded in myth, is equally worth a visit, as is the National Museum with its excellent Khmer collection. Cyclo tours around the city are a great alternative to walking and generally include the Central Market, US Embassy, Wat Phnom, Mekong Riverfront, the Independence Monument and the Royal Palace.
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My Son Sanctuary Half-Day Trip
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Cooking class with a local chef
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An Bang Beach Biking and Picnic Lunch
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Hoi An Food Adventure
Day 12: January 16
Phnom Penh - Siem Reap
Today, there is a scenic drive to Siem Reap (approximately 6 hours, including stops along the way). Visit Santuk Silk Farm to learn about silk production and its work as a social enterprise, employing local women as artisan weavers. Share a simple local lunch prepared by the weavers. Arrive in the small but expanding town of Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor and the most popular destination for travelers in all of Cambodia, perhaps in all of Southeast Asia. You'll probably notice a change of pace here, so take the leader-led orientation walk and enjoy the atmosphere.
Day 13: January 17
Siem Reap
A very rewarding morning to get to Angkor Wat in the early hours to watch the sun rising over it as it did in the ancient times (weather permitting). Then Temple-hop with your local guide and make the most of your visit to the world-famous Angkor complex. The temples, dating back as far as the ninth century, were believed to represent the cosmic world and were set in perfect balance, symmetry and composition. The intricately carved bas-reliefs and architectural designs are mind-blowing and are a spectacular photo opportunity at any time of day. The ruins are scattered over an area of some 160 square km, but the main cluster of temples is close to Siem Reap, so there will be plenty of time to fully appreciate the great archaeological sites of Angkor Wat, Bayon and the jungle-covered Ta Prohm. We will have a three-day pass.
Day 14: January 18
Siem Reap
Continue your explorations of the Angkor complex this morning. In the afternoon, embark on a private local boat to discover the floating villages and local daily lives at Chong Kneas, a trading port of agricultural products on the edge of Tonle Sap Lake, also known as the Great Lake of Cambodia.
Day 15: January 19
Siem Reap - Bangkok
After breakfast at the hotel, the day is free at leisure until the appointed time with your tour guide transfer to Siem Reap airport for your departure flight.
Sa-wat dee, welcome to Thailand! Your adventure begins in the country’s bustling capital, Bangkok, famous for its tuk tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious Thai food. If you arrive in Bangkok with time to spare, you may like to take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, or indulge in Thai massage. We have included the Chinatown “Sights and Bites Urban Adventure.”
Day 16: January 20
Bangkok
Bangkok is a thriving, friendly, and beautiful city. Whether you enjoy listening to music, sampling deliciously authentic cuisine, or even walking around and taking in the stunning sights and rich history of the city, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Today, we tour the Grand Palace and enjoy a cooking class. Optional activities include Thai Boxing ($80) and/or a $10 Thai massage.
Day 17: January 21
Departure
The main trip comes to an end this morning, with no further activities planned. However, if you have more time, Bangkok is full of things to do, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the fascinating Jim Thompson museum.
Trip Pricing
Main Trip Per Person, Double Occupancy $4,750
Main Trip Single Supplement $1,190
Singapore Extension Per Person, Double Occupancy (3 days / 2 nights) $1,000
Singapore Extension Single Supplement $680
Phuket Beach Extension Per Person, Double Occupancy (4 days / 3 nights) $1,000
Phuket Beach Extension Single Supplement $680
Travel Insurance
Ask for a quote
Does not include:
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International air to and from the USA
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Transfers to and from DIA.
Pricing based on 12 or more guests and subject to small changes based on the four included flights while there–yet to be purchased. Extension pricing based on 10 or more guests.
January is a great time to be in S.E. Asia and an excellent time to not be in Colorado.
Optional Pre-Extension
Singapore January 3-5
January 3 Day 1:
Bangkok - Singapore
For those who are continuing on with the Singapore extension, you will be transferred to the Bangkok airport.
Singapore has few areas untouched by modernization, however wandering the streets of Little India and Chinatown is a great way to see the old parts of the city. To explore further, check out the renowned shopping precinct of Orchard Road, or stop by Raffles to experience the old-world charm of a Singapore Sling. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and greeted by our local English-speaking guide and transfer to your hotel.
Included Activities
• Flight - Bangkok - Singapore (One way/Economy). Arrival Transfer*
Accommodation. AMOY Hotel – Deluxe or similar | https://www.fareasthospitality.com/en/Hotels/AMOY
January 4 Day 2:
Singapore
City Tour - begin your journey at Kampong Glam, an area where modernity meets tradition. This district has a history that dates back to Singapore’s colonial era as the allocated area to the Malay, Arab and Bugis communities. Explore the city by driving round the Civic District, passing by the Padang, Singapore Cricket Club, historic Parliament House and the National Gallery Singapore. The Gallery consists of the former Supreme Court Building and the City Hall.
Next, stop at the Merlion Park and enjoy the impressive views of Marina Bay. Do not miss out this picture-taking opportunity with The Merlion, a mythological creature that is part lion and part fish. Visit Thian Hock Keng Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest Buddhist-Taoist temples, before driving past Chinatown.
Proceed to Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Singapore Botanic Gardens and walk through the National Orchid Garden which boasts a sprawling display of 60,000 orchid plants. Pick up time starts from 08:30 hours. Afternoon at leisure. Evening, hop on a bumboat with the Singapore River Cruise, and acquaint yourself with Singapore’s history and modernity in one classic experience.
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Includes admission to National Orchid Garden
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3.5 hrs. Singapore City Tour
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Bumboat ride Singapore river experience
January 5 Day 3:
Singapore Departure
Today, check-out and transfer to airport. There is no guide, however, the Singapore airport procedure is very simple as you’ll be transferred to the designated terminal.
Departure Transfer Included*
*A midnight surcharge of USD20 per vehicle per way will be applied if pickup service is between 22:00 - 07:00 or departure flights are between 01:00 - 10:00.
Optional Post-Extension
Phuket
Day 1:
Bangkok - Phuket
After finishing your main trip, board a domestic flight down to the tourist haven of Phuket, Thailand’s largest and most visited island. This island is certainly a brasher, more vibrant extrovert to the mellower setting of the last few days. Upon arrival, you’ll be picked up and transferred to hotel.
Included activities
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Flight from Donmuang to Phuket (One way/Economy)
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Arrival Transfer (without guide)
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Included (Group Basis)
Accommodation: Mida Grande Resort Phuket – Deluxe Ocean View or similar | https://midagrandephuket.com/
Day 2:
Phuket
Phuket is ringed with beaches, each with their own distinct personalities, from a party vibe to perhaps something quieter and more romantic. If you can pull yourself away from the beautiful beaches and curving coasts, Phuket also has a range of activities to fill your day, from Thai boxing exhibitions to cabaret shows.
Add-on activities (Entry fee only) – Pricing per person:
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Phuket - Phi Phi & Khai Nok Island Day Trip – USD $110
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Phuket - Elephant Sanctuary - USD $110
Day 3:
Phuket
Free day at leisure.
Day 4:
Phuket Departure
There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to end! If you’d like to continue to soak up the very best of Phuket, we are happy to organize additional accommodation (subject to availability).
Departure Transfer (without guide) Included (Individual Basis)
BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS
• The quote and accommodation will be subject to availability at the time of booking
PASSPORT
You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally. Most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.
We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.
VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility.We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements
ADDRESS FOR VIETNAM VISA APPLICATIONS
If you require an address for your visa application, please use:
Intrepid Vietnam
Ground Floor, Ladeco Building
266 Doi Can St
Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
Vietnam
Ph +84 4 3715 0996
ADDRESS FOR CAMBODIA VISA APPLICATIONS
If you require an address for your visa application, please use:
Intrepid Cambodia
92 Taneuy Street
Wat Bo Village
Siem Reap
How to Book
If you are happy with the quotation and itinerary please let your agent know. Please advise your agent of your names as per passport and your date of birth so that they may send you an invoice. The next step is to pay a per person deposit. This allows us to go off and confirm the arrangements. We can only hold arrangements for a group once we have received deposit.
Final Balance
• Final balance payment is required 6 months prior to travel.
Cancellation by the traveller
• Cancellation prior to 6 months, we will keep the non-refundable deposit.
• Cancellation less than 180 days prior to departure will incur 50% cancellation fee.
• Cancellation 30 days or inside prior to travel will incur 100% cancellation fees
• No shows will be treated as a cancellation and will incur 100% cancellation fees.
Cancellation by Intrepid
• Cancellation is in line with those detailed in the standard Intrepid booking conditions.
Booking Conditions
By booking this Intrepid Travel Tailor-Made Adventure, you agree to the Intrepid Standard Booking Conditions: Booking terms & conditions | Intrepid Travel AU and any deviations specified below that apply to your Tailor-Made booking as set out below.
• All rates are per person, based on indicated numbers traveling together as one movement. Any changes to the group size at any time before or after confirmation of services will require the trip to be repriced.
• The details set out in your proposal are a quotation only. The pricing and itinerary are subject to availability of accommodation, transport, leaders, and other suppliers at time of booking. We reserve the right to amend and requote itinerary if such suppliers are not available.
• By making your payment, you are agreeing to the most recent itinerary and price quote. All revisions will be subject to requote and additional approval.
• A contract will exist when we accept your deposit.
• If we, or a third-party operator, is required to make amendments to your original proposal, subsequent pricing may become applicable to your booking.
• Any changes to the itinerary made by you AFTER services have been confirmed will require a revised quote and may be subject to an additional charge (as levied by hotels, ground operators or airlines). No additional changes are permitted within 30 days prior to departure.
• Hotels listed in the quote are indicative only and are subject to change. If the hotel listed in the quote is unavailable, we will confirm an alternative hotel of similar standard.
• If complimentary transfers are included, (on a group basis) they are only applicable if going to accommodation booked through us. Please advise flight arrival details (flight number and arrival time) at least 30 days prior to departure if you wish to have this transfer provided. There is no guarantee we can arrange this transfer if we receive these details within 30 days of departure.
• You acknowledge that you are choosing to travel at a time where you may be exposed to the COVID-19 virus. We will take all reasonable steps to ensure your safety and may require you to follow additional safety protocols before and during your trip. Depending on the most recent health information available to us, we may require you to comply with mandatory health policies, including the need for proof of vaccination or medical tests. More information can be found on our Covid-19 Customer Information page. Please note that these policy requirements are subject to change following advice from relevant authorities.