We begin the day early with the opportunity to witness the sacred Alms Giving ceremony, a deeply spiritual tradition unique to Laos. At dawn, saffron-robed monks walk silently through the streets collecting offerings, offering a quiet and moving insight into daily Buddhist life. We then visit the morning market, where locals trade fresh produce, handmade goods and traditional foods.

After breakfast at the hotel, we explore Luang Prabang by tuk tuk, visiting key highlights including Wat Mai, the former Royal Palace, Wat Aham and the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong. Later, we cruise upstream along the Mekong River, enjoying peaceful countryside views before visiting the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, home to hundreds of Buddha statues. Along the way, we stop at a village known for traditional rice wine distillation and visit local weaving and handmade paper communities.

In the late afternoon, we climb Mount Phousi for panoramic views over Luang Prabang and the Mekong River as the sun begins to set. We then transfer to the pier to board a sunset dinner cruise, enjoying the changing colours of the river while dining on board.

This evening is free after the cruise to explore the vibrant night market or return to the hotel to relax.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Satri House

After breakfast, we depart with our local guide for a meaningful and ethical elephant experience. At the sanctuary, we learn about elephant conservation and care, meet the elephants up close, and gain insight into the important role they play in Lao culture. There is time to observe, feed and interact with these gentle animals in a responsible and respectful setting.

We then continue to the beautiful Kuang Si Waterfalls, one of Laos’ most iconic natural attractions. Here, turquoise pools cascade through the forest, offering time to wander the trails, enjoy the scenery, or swim in the refreshing waters if you wish. We also visit the nearby Free the Bears Rescue Centre, supporting the protection of rescued wildlife.

On the return journey to Luang Prabang, we stop at a Hmong village to learn more about local life and traditions, followed by a visit to a renowned craft centre where women artisans showcase traditional silk weaving and textile work.

The late afternoon is at leisure back at the hotel, allowing time to relax, enjoy the facilities, or explore independently.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Satri House

After breakfast, we set out for a local home cooking experience, beginning with a visit to a neighbourhood market to select fresh, seasonal ingredients alongside our host. We are then welcomed into a local family home, where we prepare traditional Lao dishes using time-honoured techniques and learn about daily life, food culture and family traditions.

Mid-morning, we accompany our host to a nearby village temple to offer the food we have prepared. A monk welcomes us with a blessing ceremony, followed by prayers and a traditional cotton-string blessing for protection and good fortune. We then return to the family home to enjoy the meal we have prepared together, sharing stories and conversation in a warm, personal setting.

After lunch, we return to our hotel for a relaxed afternoon. Time is set aside for spa and wellness treatments, offering the opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The evening is free to dine at leisure or explore Luang Prabang at your own pace.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Satri House

This morning is at leisure before we check out and transfer to the airport for our flight to Hanoi. On arrival, we are met by our local guide and transferred to our hotel, located in the heart of the city.

After time to settle in, we gather this evening for a dinner at a refined Vietnamese fusion restaurant. This is a wonderful introduction to Hanoi’s culinary scene and an opportunity to enjoy our first evening together in Vietnam.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel

This morning, we take part in a meaningful cultural experience at a local social enterprise, where we meet inspiring women artisans and learn how traditional art forms are reimagined through creativity and resilience. We gain insight into their personal stories and have the opportunity to try our hand at creating our own small artwork.

Afterwards, we return to the hotel for breakfast and some time to rest before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, we visit Vietnam’s Women’s Museum, offering a deeper understanding of the role women have played in shaping the country’s culture, history and family life.

The remainder of the day is free to relax, explore the city independently, or enjoy the hotel’s facilities.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel

We wake to sunrise views over the bay and begin the morning with gentle movement on the sundeck, followed by breakfast on board. After some leisure time, we enjoy a relaxed brunch as the cruise continues through the calm waters of Lan Ha Bay.

Mid-morning, we travel by speedboat to Viet Hai Village, a remote community nestled within Cat Ba National Park. Here, we explore the village by bicycle, visiting local homes and gaining insight into daily life in this peaceful setting. Lunch is shared in a traditional bamboo house with the community, offering a warm and authentic cultural exchange.

In the afternoon, we return to the bay, stopping at a secluded beach where there is time to swim, relax or simply enjoy the scenery. Back on board, the late afternoon is at leisure before sunset drinks and another cooking demonstration.

This evening, dinner is served on board, followed by optional activities such as squid fishing, spa treatments or quiet time under the stars.

Overnight on board in Lan Ha Bay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Elite of the Seas Cruise

We start the day very early with a unique Good Morning Hanoi experience. Before dawn, we visit the city’s flower and fruit markets as they come to life, walk across the historic Long Bien Bridge, and wander through the Old Quarter as the city awakens. We then arrive at Hoan Kiem Lake to witness locals practising tai chi at sunrise, followed by a traditional pho breakfast and Vietnamese coffee.

After returning to the hotel mid-morning, the remainder of the morning is free to rest and refresh.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon is dedicated to relaxation with a healing spa experience. This is a chance to unwind, rejuvenate and enjoy some quiet personal time after the early start.

The evening is at leisure.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel

After breakfast, we depart Hanoi and travel through scenic countryside towards Mai Chau. On arrival, we visit a local village where we meet women from the Thai ethnic minority and gain insight into daily life, traditional customs and local culture.

We enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to the peaceful landscapes of Pu Luong Nature Reserve. This afternoon, we set out on a gentle walk through rice terraces and small villages, taking in the natural beauty and slower pace of rural Vietnam.

Later, we take part in a hands-on basket weaving experience, learning traditional techniques and connecting with local artisans. In the evening, we enjoy a traditional dinner hosted in the local community, offering a warm and authentic cultural experience.

Overnight in Pu Luong.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Pu Luong Retreat

This morning, we enjoy breakfast surrounded by the tranquil landscapes of Pu Luong before taking a gentle walk through the village to observe local daily life and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

After lunch, we depart Pu Luong and travel back to Hanoi, where we continue onward to the coast for our Lan Ha Bay cruise. On arrival, we board our luxury vessel and settle into our cabins before enjoying lunch on board as we begin sailing through the serene limestone karsts and calm waters of the bay.

The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the facilities on board, with opportunities to swim, kayak, or simply relax on the sundeck while taking in the scenery. As the sun sets, we enjoy a cooking demonstration followed by an elegant multi-course dinner served on board.

Overnight on board in Lan Ha Bay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Elite of the Seas Cruise

We begin the day with sunrise views over Lan Ha Bay, followed by gentle movement on the sundeck and breakfast on board. The morning is relaxed, allowing time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings as the cruise continues through the bay.

Late morning, we enjoy a leisurely brunch before transferring by speedboat to Viet Hai Village. Here, we explore the village by bicycle, visiting local homes and learning about life in this remote island community. Lunch is enjoyed in a traditional bamboo house with the local people, offering a warm and authentic cultural experience.

In the afternoon, we return to the bay and spend time at a secluded beach, with the option to swim, relax or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Back on board, the late afternoon is at leisure before sunset drinks and a cooking demonstration.

Dinner is served on board this evening, followed by optional activities such as squid fishing, spa treatments or quiet time under the stars.

Overnight on board in Lan Ha Bay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Elite of the Seas Cruise

We begin the morning with sunrise views over the bay and a gentle tai chi session on the sundeck, followed by breakfast on board. Later this morning, we explore the Dark and Bright Cave by local boat, taking in the dramatic limestone formations and calm waters.

We then return to the ship for a relaxed brunch as we cruise back towards the harbour. After disembarkation, we transfer by road to Hanoi Airport for our flight to Hue.

On arrival in Hue, we are met by our local guide and transferred to our hotel, located along the Perfume River. The remainder of the evening is at leisure to relax and settle in.

Overnight in Hue.

Meals: Breakfast, Brunch
Accommodation: Azerai, La Residence Hue

After breakfast, we set out to explore the imperial city of Hue, beginning with a visit to the Royal Tomb of Minh Mang, set in a peaceful landscape reflecting traditional feng shui principles.

We enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing in the afternoon to the Imperial Citadel, the former seat of the Nguyen Dynasty and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, we walk through historic gates, courtyards and palaces while learning about Vietnam’s imperial past.

This evening, we enjoy a special royal-style dinner accompanied by traditional court music, offering a memorable cultural experience unique to Hue.

Overnight in Hue.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Azerai, La Residence Hue

After breakfast, we depart Hue and travel along National Highway 1A, enjoying scenic views of rice fields, coastal plains and forested mountains as we make our way to Bach Ma National Park.

On arrival, we enjoy a gentle nature walk through lush forest landscapes, visiting the Five Lakes area where clear pools cascade through the greenery. We continue to the impressive Do Quyen Waterfall, taking in the dramatic scenery and cooler mountain air.

Lunch is enjoyed at a local restaurant before we return to Hue in the afternoon. The remainder of the day is at leisure, offering time to relax at the hotel, enjoy the riverside setting or book an optional spa treatment.

Overnight in Hue.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Azerai, La Residence Hue

This morning is at leisure, with the option to enjoy a gentle yoga session, relax by the river, or make use of the hotel’s spa facilities before we depart Hue.

Late morning, we travel south to Hoi An, passing through scenic countryside en route. On arrival, we set out on a guided walking tour of Hoi An’s beautifully preserved Ancient Town. We explore its narrow streets, historic merchant houses, old temples and colourful shopfronts, learning about the town’s rich trading history and cultural influences.

As evening falls, we sample local street food and take part in the magical tradition of releasing floating lanterns on the river, a peaceful and memorable way to experience Hoi An at night.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Palm Garden Resort

After breakfast, we head into the countryside for a half-day farming and wellness experience with local women. We begin with a walk through herb gardens, learning about traditional plants and their healing properties, followed by a gentle meditation session in nature. We take part in hands-on activities, including preparing herbal remedies, detox drinks and wellness blends, before enjoying a healthy vegetarian lunch prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

In the afternoon, we join a lantern-making workshop led by skilled local craftswomen. Using traditional techniques, we create our own Hoi An lantern to take home as a meaningful keepsake.

The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax at the resort, enjoy the beach, or explore Hoi An independently.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Palm Garden Resort

Today is free to enjoy Hoi An at your own pace. You may choose to relax at the beach or pool, enjoy a spa treatment, explore the Old Town, or visit one of Hoi An’s many boutiques and galleries.

For those interested, optional activities include yoga, cycling through the countryside, or having tailor-made clothing created by local artisans.

This is a chance to slow the pace and enjoy a full day of rest and personal exploration before the next stage of the journey.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Palm Garden Resort

After breakfast, we check out and transfer to Da Nang International Airport for our flight to Phnom Penh.

On arrival in Cambodia’s capital, we are met by our local guide and transferred to our hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax after the flight or begin exploring the surrounding area at your own pace.

This evening is free to dine at leisure or enjoy the facilities at the hotel.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Palace Gate Hotel & Resort

After breakfast, we begin our exploration of Phnom Penh with a visit to the Royal Palace complex, including the Silver Pagoda, home to an impressive collection of Buddha statues crafted from silver, gold and precious stones.

We continue to the National Museum, gaining insight into Khmer art, history and culture through its extensive collection of sculptures and artefacts. We then visit the Central Market, an architectural landmark and lively hub where locals shop for everything from produce to handicrafts.

Lunch is enjoyed at a local restaurant before we visit Wat Phnom, the hilltop temple that gave the city its name and remains an important spiritual site for locals.

The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure, allowing time to relax at the hotel or explore independently.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Palace Gate Hotel & Resort

After breakfast, we depart Phnom Penh and travel by road to Siem Reap, passing through rural Cambodia and small provincial towns along the way. The journey offers a glimpse into everyday life, with views of rice fields, villages, water buffalo and local markets.

On arrival in Siem Reap, we check in to our hotel and enjoy time to relax or freshen up. In the evening, we gather for dinner accompanied by a traditional Apsara dance performance, an elegant introduction to Cambodia’s classical arts and cultural heritage.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Angkor Village Hotel

After breakfast, we set out to explore the remarkable Angkor temple complex, beginning with Angkor Thom, the last great capital of the Khmer Empire. We visit the iconic Bayon Temple with its many stone faces, followed by stops at the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King.

We then explore Ta Prohm, one of Angkor’s most atmospheric temples, where massive tree roots entwine ancient stone walls, creating a striking and memorable scene.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we continue to Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument and one of Southeast Asia’s most extraordinary architectural achievements. We take time to explore the temple complex and admire its intricate carvings and symmetry.

The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure before returning to the hotel.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Angkor Village Hotel

After breakfast, we travel to Preah Dak Village, one of the oldest villages in the Siem Reap region, known for its traditional homes and strong sense of community. We spend the morning exploring the village, gaining insight into daily life and long-held customs.

We continue by bicycle through the surrounding area, meeting local families and observing traditional crafts, including palm sugar production, rice wine making and the creation of Khmer incense. Along the way, we enjoy local snacks and drinks while watching a short traditional music performance beneath the shade of coconut trees.

We then visit a local family specialising in the preparation of Num Banh Chok, a popular Khmer noodle dish, before enjoying lunch at a community homestay.

In the afternoon, we return to Siem Reap with a stop at Artisans d’Angkor, where we see traditional silk weaving, wood and stone carving, lacquer work and other crafts being preserved and passed on to future generations.

Later, our farewell dinner.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Angkor Village Hotel

After breakfast, the morning is at leisure until it is time to check out and transfer to Siem Reap International Airport for your onward journey.

As our Grand Indochina journey comes to an end, we say farewell carrying home shared memories, cultural insight and the friendships formed along the way.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: N/A