Indochina

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Indochina can be experienced in many ways, escorted tours are a good way of seeing as much of the area as possible in one holiday, however there are many other ways such as tailor making your own itinerary to include hotels and short tours – this way you plan your holiday to your own specification.

VIETNAM

Vietnam’s history dates back some 500,000 years. For some the first visit to Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi is a complete culture shock with the massive rush of motorcycles jamming streets, which are a hive of trading activity. Outside of this commercial hub, Vietnam remains relatively untouched. Traversing mountain paths and coastal roads Vietnam holds astounding panoramic views, providing some of Asia’s most fascinating landscapes, truly a contrast to the flat lands of Cambodia and the landlocked nation of Laos. Travelling north or south or south to north this country is as varied as the region and provides a colourful range of cultures and religions. From the proud and Imperial city of Hue and the artistic and reserved northern capital of Hanoi, to the warm water shores of Nha Trang or Cua Dai Beach in HOI An, Vietnam creates an ideal beginning or end to your pan Indochina tour – enjoy!

Sheraton Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City (South Vietnam) – set in a central location in the entertainment district of Dong Khoi, an array of shops, bars and restaurants are within easy reach. During the day spend your time visiting the historic Re-unification Palace and the History Museum, which are all just a stroll away. For guests seeking a well located base with the reassurance of a quality deluxe hotel from the Starwood group offers, the Sheraton Saigon will not disappoint.

Park Hyatt Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City (South Vietnam) – perfectly situated on the edge of the Lam Son Square overlooking the classical lines of the Saigon opera House, the Park Hyatt basks in its enviable location.

Evason Hideaway, Nha Trang (South Vietnam) – with a simply stunning setting on the dramatic, secluded Ninh Van Bay, a deserted beach only accessible by private boat, the Evason Hideaway is truly the most private, exclusive resort in Vietnam. Designed to take full advantage of its unique setting amidst impressive rock formations, beautiful coral reefs and a white sandy beach, this peaceful paradise id a haven for those with nothing but sheer unadulterated relation in mind.

EXPERIENCES NOT TO BE MISSED IN SOUTH VIETNAM:

Ho Chi Minh City Tour – an exciting and informative half day tour to witness and learn about the past, present and future pf this amazing city.
Cu Chi Tunnel tour – Northwest of Ho Chi Minh City stands an amazing complex of tunnels and passageways that formed an underground city of sleeping quarters, armourments, kitchens and command centres used in the Vietnamese war. Half-day tour.
Mekong Delta – Enjoy a boat ride along the Mekong River, stopping off en route at the Vinh Trang Pagoda. My Tho is a prosperous town of 170,000 inhabitants nestled within the Mekong Delta and famed for its exuberant orchards and panoramas on never ending rice fields. Full day tour.

Imperial Hotel, Hue (Central Vietnam) – located in the heart of Hue overlooking the Perfume River, the Imperial has been designed to reflect the imperial culture of Hue with its warm and luxurious atmosphere. Its opulent appearance and exceptional range and leisure facilities ensure this is an ideal retreat for those seeking refinement in this Imperial city.

Nam Hai Hotel, Hoi An (Central Vietnam) – the recently opened Nam Hai has brought together the best and most experienced names in luxury resort development to create a world class oasis on the pristine white sands of China Beach. Set in gardens landscaped by Bill Bensley, the Nam Hai incorporates its natural surroundings to create a tropical setting conducive to peace and tranquillity. Some 15 minutes drive away lies the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An with a complimentary shuttle service provided by the resort throughout the day.

EXPERIENCES NOT TO BE MISSED IN CENTRAL VIETNAM:

Hoi An City Tour – Discover the charming ancient city of Hoi An on a leisurely walking tour. Half-day tour.
My Son and Hoi An – You will visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of My Son, the capital and religious centre of the former Champa Kingdom. Explore red brick ruins and temples dating back to the 7th Century. Return to Hoi An in time for lunch and a city tour. Full day tour.
Hue City Tour – your tour starts with a boat cruise along the romantic Perfume River, visiting Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the most ancient religious buildings in Hue. Continue by car to the nearby Imperial Citadel from where the Nguyen Dynasty ruled between 1802 and 1945. Half and full day tours.
De-Militarized Zone Tour – In 1954 a ‘provisional military demarcation line’ dividing Vietnam into the ‘Communist’ north and ‘Free’ south. Full day tour.

Sheraton Hanoi, Hanoi (North Vietnam) – A picturesque setting on the shore of Hano’s largest lake provides the backdrop for a hotel that has built its reputation on excellent service and understated luxury. From the oasis of peace in the bustling city Hanoi, the myriad of shopping opportunities in the historical Old Quarter to the sombre reflections at Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum are all within easy reach.

Sofitel Metropole, Hanoi (North Vietnam) – this French Colonial style has been a grand hotel since 1901. The Sofitel Metropole has a long tradition of welcoming playwrights, ambassadors and heads of state. Its central location means it is within walking distance of the historic Old Quarter, a bustling corner of Hanoi that teems with local markets, amazing restaurants and vibrant bars. The Sofitel Metropole is one of Hanoi’s finest hotels.

EXPERIENCES NOT TO BE MISSED IN NORTH VIETNAM:

Hanoi City Tour – a half-day tour of Vietnam’s vibrant capital, visiting the imposing granite mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh. Affectionately known as ‘Uncle Ho’ his body remains embalmed on display, receiving thousands of visitors every day. The tour ends with a visit to the Temple of Literature, built in 1076 as original university in Vietnam.
Old Quarter Cyclo Tour – A unique and often hilarious method of transport to be found on the streets of Hanoi is the ‘Cyclo’. Resembling a cross between a handcart and a bicycle. Your half-day tour begins with a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake, then the Ngoc Son temple and the landmark Opera House. From here it’s a short ride to Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

CAMBODIA

Its temples and the ancient capital of Angkor do not wholly represent this kingdom, however they do form the basis of a proud Khmer nation. See more of Cambodia now than ever before, taking time to explore the country and its remote east or more commercial west. Scars of Cambodia’s history still remain providing insights into three decades of civil war including the four year struggle against the genocidal Khmer Rouge. The past should never detract from the fact that modern Cambodia is an enchanting and delightful country steeped history just waiting to be explored. Its modern day facet provides huge contrasts with the rise of the Khmer Empire in around 802AD, and the wonderful beaches of Aihanoukville provide the perfect opportunity to relax after an exciting tour of the region.

Sofitel Royal Angkor (Siem Reap) – the Sofitel Royal Angkor is located between the town of Siem Reap and the fabled temples of Angkor, which makes this a great choice. Managed by the French Accor group of hotels, exquisite interiors, impeccable service and fine cuisine come as standard.
Well appointed Superior rooms are wonderfully decorated with lovely wooden floors and feature air-conditioning, television, telephone, minibar, bath or shower. Larger Deluxe rooms at ground level with a lovely terrace and more spacious Junior Suites with a separate living area and large bathroom with both bath and shower are also available.

Hotel De La Paix (Siem Reap) – Siem Reap’s most stylish hotel, the Hotel De La Paix is a five star boutique designer retreat that offers outstanding levels of luxury and world class dining and spa facilities. In a great location set amidst the markets, bustling streets and eclectic nightlife of Siem Reap, yet only five miles from the awe inspiring Angkor.

Raffles Le Royal (Phnom Penh) – the Raffles Le Royal is an elegant colonial hotel. A prime central location is assured with close proximity to the National Museum and Royal Palace. First opened in 1929 with an inspired blend of Khmer and French colonial architecture, this premier grand historic hotel has been restored with great sensitivity to local culture, history and the environment of Cambodia.

Sokha Beach Resort & Spa (Sihanoukville) – ten minutes by car from Sihanoukville and approximately three hours drive from the capital city of Phnom Penh, the beachfront Sokha Beach Resort and Spa welcomes guests with its elegant and comfortable surroundings. There is a great choice of dining and bar options giving the choice of casual, elegant or refined dining. The Jasmine Spa provides a selection of body and beauty treatments if you feel like pampering yourselves!

EXPERIENCES NOT TO BE MISSED IN CAMBODIA:

Phnom City Tour – a full day tour exploring the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Later stop at the historic National Museum and Wat Ounalom, the centre of Cambodian Buddhism. Lunch is provided at a restaurant near the Mekong River, followed by a visit to Tuol Sleng, the notorious prison and torture centre of the Khmer Rouge. The day concludes with shopping at the bustling Russian market.
Temples by Tuk Tuk – a fun way to discover the temples of Angkor onboard an authentic Tuk Tuk. This full day tour includes the South Gate of Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple, Phimeanakes, the Royal Enclosure, Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King. End the day viewing sunset over the iconic Angkor Wat temple.
Tonle Sap Lake – drive through scenic countryside to board your recently restored traditional wooden boat. Cruise the lake enjoying fascinating glimpses of centuries old life and visit the remarkable floating village before returning to Siem Reap. Half-day tour.

LAOS

Laos is a pristine emerald nation of incredible beauty, vastly unpopulated and very laid back. The nation remains devoutly Buddhist with many Lao males choosing to ordain as monks for a period of time in their lives. Though both the Vietnamese and Khmer have influenced Lao culture, the strongest cultural and linguistic links are with Thailand and so touching another’s head or pointing your feet is taboo. A visit to Laos on your tour will not only make a huge contribution to the economy but also add a tranquil and highly interesting contrast. Age old temples, crumbling, colonial architecture, a varied array of unique minority groups, relaxing river cruises and the mountainous backdrop of its landscape provide a timeless and enchanting land, which is somewhat sleepily elegant.

La Residence Phou Vao (Luang Prabang) – this charming luxury hotel is situated on the Hill of Kites, which gives breathtaking views of the gold domed temple atop Mount Phousi, the surrounding mountains and lowland Buddhist communities. La Residence effortlessly succeeds in creating a peaceful sanctuary in the most idyllic of rural settings. Spacious rooms are furnished is stylishly finished rosewood, with air conditioning, television, telephone, minibar, shower, bath and private terrace. Mountain pool view rooms. And Phou Vao suites are also available.

Maison Souvannaphoum (Luang Prabang) – a good choice for the more discerning guest, the award winning Maison Souvannaphoum offers luxurious accommodation, impeccable service and fine cuisine. The centre of Luang Prabang is but a short stroll away placing the unmissable Royal Palace and the banks of the legendary Mekong River easily at your disposal.

Settha Palace (Vientiane) – located in the heart of Vientiane, built in the early part of the last century and painstakingly restored to its former imperial glory. Rooms and suites have high ceilings and are furnished in a classical French style, with wooden floors and rosewood four-poster beds. Each room has air conditioning, television, telephone, minibar and bath or shower.

EXPERIENCES NOT TO BE MISSED IN LAOS:

Kuang Si Waterfalls – full day tour by car to the stunning waterfalls, stopping en route to experience life among the H’mong hilltribe. Surrounded by lush plantations and wholly enclosed by a canopied forest, the natural Kuang Si waterfalls cascade down tier after tier into turquoise coloured pools. Enjoy a swim then relax with a picnic lunch. On your return, a short visit to a traditional weaving village is included.
Pak Ou Caves –full day tour will take you on a traditional boat ride along the Mekong River, stopping en route to visit a traditional weaving village ands rice wine distillation operation in a local village. After lunch at a local restaurant in Pak Ou continue to the Than Ting and Tham Phoum caves and witness the Buddha statues contained within. On your return stop by the village of Ban Xieng Mene to visit the amazing mural paintings that adorn the Vat Long Khoune.
Vientiane & Luang Prabang City tours – both full day tours taking in the major sights of these amazing cities.

Tours

Escorted tours are the most popular way of seeing all of what Indochina has to offer, below are just a small selection of these tours-

Page Moy

Vietnam & Cambodia Escorted Tour – 19 days from £2299

Uncover the cultural riches of two extraordinary countries. Discover the faded charm of Hanoi and the fantastic coastal scenery of Halong Bay, relax on the beach then explore the Vietnamese Highlands, enter the eerie Cu Chi wartime tunnels, cruise the Mekong River and gaze awestruck at Cambodia’s fabled lost city of Angkor.

Included excursions:

Halong Bay
My Son
Cu Chi Tunnels
My Tho & Mekong River
Angkor Thom & Angkor Wat
Siem Reap temples
Tours of Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, Dalat and Ho Chi Minh City
Boat trip on the Perfume River

Meal arrangements:
16 nights including 16 breakfasts, plus 12 lunches and 10 dinners

Also included:

The services of an experienced Page & Moy Tour Guide
Hotel porterage
Complimentary transfers between your home and UK airport (250 mile radius)

Temples to the Delta Escorted Tour – 10 days from £1399

Temples to the Delta covers the tropical south of Cambodia and Vietnam and provides some of the religious most astounding experiences. Extend your stay by adding the bright lights and frantic pace of Bangkok and the ancient town of Battambang in Cambodia.

Included excursions:

Angkor Thom & Angkor Wat
Siem Reap temples
City of Phnom Penh
Mekong Delta houses
Mekong Delta’s floating markets
Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon)

Meal arrangements:
Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily with the exception of breakfast and lunch on Day 2, while in Ho Chi Minh City on Day 8 breakfast and lunch are included and breakfast only on Days 9 and 10.

Also included:

An English speaking guide

Vietnam Discovery Escorted Small Group Tour – 14 days from £1195 (excludes international flights)

A comprehensive tour of Vietnam starting from Saigon in the south and finishing in Hanoi in the north. A great choice for those wanting to experience all of what Vietnam has to offer.

Included excursions:

Explore the Mekong Delat by sampan
Cruise around Halong Bay
Enjoy a Vietnamese cooking lessons
Discover the charming towns of Dalat, Hoi An and Hue
Cu Chi tunnels

Meal arrangements:
Breakfast is included daily and also one lunch.

Also included:

All transfers, sightseeing and transport where specified including domestic flights (excluding tax)
The services of an English – speaking guide

Fact file

Flying time: 14 hours
Time difference: 7 hours ahead of GMT
Currency: The most favourable currency in all areas is the US Dollar. Local currencies Vietnamese Dong, Cambodian Riel and Laotian Lak.

Useful information

Departure tax:
Vietnam - International Departure tax US$14
Cambodia – International Departure tax US$25 & US$6 domestic
Laos – International Departure tax US$10

Visa requirements:
All countries require the visitor to hold a passport valid for at least 6 months and to obtain a visa.
Vietnam – single or multiple entry tourist visa must be obtained prior to arrival at the Vietnam Embassy (www.vietnamembassy.org.uk).
Cambodia – visa obtained on arrival at Siem Reap or Phnom Penh airports & other border crossings. Laos – 15 day tourist visa on arrival obtained at Vietiane or Luang Prabang airports & other border crossings.

Weather

Average temperatures and rainfall for Cambodia (Phnom Penh)
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Temp (°C)	31	33	34	35	34	33	32	32	31	31	30	30
Rainfall (inches)	0	0	2	3	5	6	7	6	9	10	5	2

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