Images Of Indochina

Begin your exploration of this modern Southeast Asian city by visiting the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the adjoining Grand Palace, two of the most amazing sites in the city. The compound includes over 100 colorful buildings, golden spires, mosaics and the Wat Phra Kaew, Thailand's most important shrine and where the Emerald Buddha is kept. Little is known about this statue, except that it is actually made of green jade or jasper. This evening, join fellow travellers at a festive welcome cocktail party and dinner. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok B L D

Fly to the richly spiritual city of Luang Prabang in Laos, located amidst lush rainforest. Explore its many temples, including the beautiful Phoussy Temple, located on top of Phoussy Hill. From here you can enjoy a panoramic vista of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, currently enjoying a makeover on its colorful 300-year-old temples, brick roads and colonial structures. La R?sidence Phou Vao B L D

At dawn, watch the procession of monks in their saffron robes as they quietly walk through the city, accepting offerings from locals, whom they bless in return. Feel free to partake of this custom yourself. Afterward, explore the Pak Ou Caves, Thamting and Thamphoum, as well as Wat Longkhome and the village of Ban Xanghai. La R?sidence Phou Vao B L D

Explore the Royal Palace Museum, filled with royal and religious art, including one of the most famous statues of Buddha, the Pha Bang. Afterward, head to the local market where you can buy jewelry, clothes, foods and local crafts. Then, visit the Kuang Si Waterfall, a pristine spot in the foothills of the nearby forest. Following an afternoon at leisure, you are honored with one of the most sacred Laotian rituals: the baci (welcome) ceremony, followed by dinner. La R?sidence Phou Vao B L D

Fly to Siem Reap and explore Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, Elephant and Leper King Terraces and Ta Prohm - all timeless examples of Khmer engineering and artistry. Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor B L D

Explore two less-visited areas: Banteay Srei and Banteay Samre. Sunset finds you at Angkor Wat. Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor B L D

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, a beautiful m?lange of French colonial and Southeast Asian styles. After lunch, wander the city's colorful Chinatown and explore the Thien Hau Pagoda, the most important pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City, which serves for prayers to the Buddha as well as to the Chinese deity Thien Hau Thanh Mau. Park Hyatt Saigon B L

This morning, explore the Cu Chi tunnel network, a key Vietcong resource during the Vietnam War. Design Your Day this afternoon with the activity of your choice:Visit the Presidential Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral or embark on a guided shopping expedition in Ho Chi Minh City. Park Hyatt Saigon B

Arrive in Danang and continue on to the Nam Hai on pristine China Beach. After lunch, visit the small traditional town of Hoi An and enjoy a sunset boat trip. The next day is yours to enjoy the amenities of your luxurious villa. The Nam Hai B L D

Arrive in charming Hanoi, the cultural heart of Vietnam that still bears the traces of centuries of changing cultures and dynasties. This evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi B L D

Visit Ho Chi Minh's house, One Pillar Pagoda, Quanh Tanh Temple and the Fine Arts Museum. Later, travel by cyclo through the Old Quarter. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi B L D

DESIGN YOUR DAY from these options: journey to scenic Ha Long Bay, the "Bay of the Descending Dragon," for a private cruise among its scenic grottoes and islands, or take a morning cooking lesson, followed by shopping in the afternoon. This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi B L D

Transfer to the airport to board your homebound flight. B