Vietnam, Laos and Thailand with Luxury Cruise

Day 1 - UK to Hanoi

Arrive in Hanoi where you will be greeted by your guide for your transfer to your hotel. 

Day 2 - Explore Hanoi

Meet your guide in the hotel lobby and take a short taxi transfer to the Temple of Literature. Tread lightly across the different yards of the most iconic ancient site of Hanoi and let the guide tell you about Confucianism and its still-very-visible influence in today’s society. After a short break at a reputed little tea house, continue on an exciting walking adventure. A few kilometers to see some of the best things Hanoi has to offer: narrow pathways, lively street markets, busy crossroads, large tree-bordered avenues, and the maze of streets in the old quarter. You will also walk along the famous Hanoi railway, have a classic Pho noodle soup at the bottom of some Khu Tap The working-class old residential buildings and sip your choice of a fresh bia hoi beer or traditional Vietnamese ca phe on a sidewalk. The walk concludes directly at your hotel in the old quarter.

Spending your afternoon at leisure. 

Day 3 - Hanoi

Your guide picks you up by private vehicle for a short transfer across Chuong Duong Bridge to the other side of the Red River. Just a few kilometres from the Old Quarter and the city changes so much already, less dense, less intense, and with a much more rural vibe. You meet your today’s host at the market. A charming lady, a daughter, a wife and a mother. She will share with you today the secrets of the traditional family cuisine in Vietnam.

After a tour of the market, journey a little further to a beautiful villa lying on the shores of the Duong River, the second, lesser-known but also beautiful, river of Hanoi. Under the careful guidance of your host, learn about the way Hanoian families usually take their meal at home and what composes a traditional mâm. Join hands in preparing a typical home-cooked lunch, then sit together with your host and share the results of your labour before heading back to your hotel. Afternoon is at leisure.

Day 4 - Hanoi to Halong Bay

Departure from your hotel on a drive without guide across the Red River Delta to the coast. The drive is about 2.5 hours to the marina. Upon arrival, and after check-in procedures and a welcome drink, you are transferred to the Violet ship for a 2-night cruise in the Halong archipelago. Once on board, start cruising while a delicious lunch is served and the limestone rocks are setting up the décor.

In the afternoon, reach a less travelled area and devote yourself to relaxation, sunbathing, and exploring. The program is not fixed and depends on the time of the year and the weather. End the day on the sundeck while the sun sets. It is time for an aperitif or to attend a cooking demonstration before dinner.

Accommodation aboard the Heritage Line cruise in a private cabin with en-suite bathroom.

Day 5 - Halong Bay

Early birds can get up at dawn and join a Tai Chi session on the sundeck to ease their mind and muscles with the first rays of the sun touching the emerald waters. Get ready for a day filled with extra cruising and more activities to unveil less travelled areas of the bay. A lunch is served on the boat.

Return on the main boat, time to refresh and rest in your cabin before another sunset over the limestone rocks. Later, dinner is served onboard.

Accommodation aboard the Heritage Line cruise in a private cabin with en-suite bathroom.

Day 6 - Ha Long Bay to Luang Prabang

Another Tai Chi session is arranged on the sundeck.

Continue exploring the bay further with an excursion to one of the caves of the archipelago. Return to the ship and check-out your cabin before enjoying a generous brunch on board while the cruise heads back to the wharf. Disembark and transfer back (without guide) to Hanoi Airport to prepare for your flight to Luang Prabang.

Meet upon arrival at the airport in Luang Prabang (HAN-LPQ). You will welcome by local English-speaking guide and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day free at leisure.

Day 7 - Luang Prabang

We start the day by visit the Morning Market. Located in the alleys off the Sisavangvong Road in the city centre, the morning market is where the locals come to do their daily shopping. Liveliest in the early morning when locals stock up on fresh vegetables, fruits, fishes and banana leaf wrapped food. It's vanished in the mid-morning with a handful of tomatoes rolled away. Take a stroll to find a variety of ingredients and enjoy the delicious Laotian breakfast at the eateries nearby. The experience truly provides an insight into the daily life of the locals.

Next to the market visit Wat Mai (“New Monastery” built in 1796). It was given its present name following the restoration undertaken in 1821 by King Manthathourat. The most striking feature of the temple is the gilded relief panels covering the front facade. The panels tell the story of the highest incarnation of the Buddha Vessentara. The gilded door frames merge into the relief panel, forming what looks like a monolithic wall of gold and then visit the former Royal Palace, now a National Museum, where there are ornate gilded and brocaded reception rooms, Buddha's and other spectacular artefacts including the Pra Bang (a large holy image) which was given in the 14th century to King Fa Ngum by the Khmers. Take a few step walking to Heuan Chan. This is a century-old traditional Lao house situated in the heart of Luang Prabang. Built in Luang Prabang’s distinct style, this wood abode serves as a museum and its surroundings promotes the Luang Prabang Way of Life.

After lunch Continue to the Wat Xieng Thong, considered as the most beautiful temple. The sim of the Wat represents the classic Luang Prabang temple architecture with roofs that sweep low to the ground. In the compound stand several small chapels housing bronze Buddha images, which were displayed in Paris in 1911. Near the East gate stands the Royal Funeral Chapel. Inside are an impressive 12- metre high funeral chariot and various funeral urns of each Royal Family's member. The gilt panel on the exterior of the chapel depicts a semi-erotic episode from Ramayana. Also look out for the “tree of life” montage on the rear temple wall. And then visit The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre (TAEC) is an engaging, culturally rich learning centre located in the heart of Luang Prabang, Lao PDR. Before the end of the day we climb Wat Phousi hill for an outstanding 360-degree view.

Day 8 - Luang Prabang – Kuang Si Waterfall

Morning Alms Giving: Witnessing a Centuries-Old Tradition: In the heart of Laos, the ancient town of Luang Prabang awakens to a unique and mesmerizing spectacle: the morning alms giving ceremony, known locally as Tak Bat. This centuries-old tradition, dating back to the 14th century, offers a glimpse into the deeply spiritual and cultural roots of the Lao people.

Visit Ock Pop Tock weaving Centre. Oct Pop Tock is a Laos based social enterprise working primarily in the field of textiles, handicrafts and design based on the principles of fair trade and sustainable business. Meaning "East meets West", Ock Pop Tok brings the fascinating world of traditional Lao handicrafts alive for visitors. Their beautiful Living Crafts Centre overlooking the Mekong is the heart of Ock Pop Tok. Set in a tropical Mekong garden it serves as a resource centre for learning about textiles, crafts and culture.

And then drive to Kuang Si waterfall (about 45-minutes driving) we will drive through beautiful landscapes of rice fields, hills, and small villages. We will visit a small village along the way which will give an opportunity to learn more about ethnic diversity in Laos. The Hmong live in this region and are showing a very different culture live. You will have an opportunity to learn about their traditions and culture, much of which has remained unchanged for centuries. Arrival at the Kuang Si Waterfall, you can relax, enjoy have even time to take a swim in the cool, clear pools and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings and wander through this protected area.

Lunch at the waterfall. After visit return to the city and drop off at your hotel. The rest of the day free at leisure

Day 9 - Luang Prabang – embark Anouvong Cruise – Pak Ou – Khok Phou

In the morning, Heritage Line extends a warm welcome to guests at the mooring of the Heritage Line ‘Anouvong’ in the city center of Luang Prabang. Our dedicated team assists with your check-in and attends to your luggage. Once ready, the captain of the ‘Anouvong’ sets the ship on its captivating 3-night journey along the Upper Mekong.

Heading towards our first destination, the renowned Pak Ou Caves, our expert guide presents an engaging lecture on the intricate tapestry of Laos' diverse ethnic groups along the Mekong River. Over the next few days, you'll immerse yourself in the fascinating array of cultural lifestyles, characteristics, and traditions.

Arriving at the Pak Ou Caves, nestled along the rocky shore of the Mekong, there are two grottoes sheltering approximately 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images. We delve into the lower cave, the most impressive and easily accessible. Post-cave visit, Heritage Line offers two optional choices to enhance your excursion: an adventurous kayak tour along the serene Nam Ou River or a visit of the nearby village of Ban Muang Keo, known for traditional silk weaving Lao whisky distillation. We also meet in this village a local “medicine man” (if time and availability permit) who explains the traditional ways of treatments using mother nature as a natural pharmacy.

As the afternoon progresses, we reach our mooring location for the night and explore the 200-year-old village of Ban Khok Phou. Primarily inhabited by the Lao ethnicity, many villagers engage in mountain farming. Gain insight into their practices and witness the collection and processing of agricultural products. The highlight is the traditional Baci ceremony, a heartfelt Laotian ritual led by local elders, bestowing blessings upon your journey. If time permits, we may ascend to a small temple, offering moments of quiet meditation with the local monk and novices.

The evening begins with a welcome cocktail on the sandbank, followed by a barbecue dinner amid astonishing natural beauty. Welcome to a memorable exploration of Laotian culture along the Mekong.

Accommodation aboard the Heritage Line cruise in a private cabin with en-suite bathroom.

Day 10 - Khok Phou – Had Sako – Khok Ek

For early risers, our daily yoga class on the terrace deck, framed by the stunning Mekong backdrop, offers a refreshing start to the day.

The ship sets sail early, allowing you to enjoy breakfast while observing the morning life of nature along the river. Our mid-morning stop takes us to the enchanting village of Had Sako, a hidden treasure nestled in the mountains. Thriving with the Hmong ethnic community, known for their unique cultivation of corn, this village stands out among the various ethnic groups. Traverse a picturesque path through the rainforest to reach this secluded village, witnessing the traditional farming practices of the Hmong people and gaining insights into their agricultural methods. The highlight awaits at a local house, where residents adorned in traditional costumes will introduce the intriguing traditional instrument called “Kene” and treat us to the hypnotic melodies of this flute accompanied by a unique dance.

Sailing into mid-afternoon, another breath-taking riverine spectacle awaits as we arrive at another remarkable village. Here, three distinct ethnic groups—Hmong, Lao Loum, and Khamo—coexist almost literally under one roof. Each group possesses its own unique history, traditions, ways of life, family dynamics, and housing styles. Venture into the village to a family home where representatives from each ethnic group will showcase and explain their differences and characteristics in day-to-day life. The theory provided the day before, through our lecture, suddenly comes alive before your eyes. If time allows and the season permits, we may offer a glimpse of the organic gardens where villagers nurture their crops (and we can try one or other local produce).

Back on board, as the afternoon transitions to evening, gather at the bar to enjoy snacks while receiving a preview of the upcoming day's program. Prepare for an enriching experience before dinner as a traditional dance performance takes place on the terrace deck or the sandbank in front of our ship.

After dinner, feel free to join us in the lounge for a cosy cinematic setting featuring "Chiang" (Laotian for “elephant”). This cinematic gem, shot in this very region in 1927 and produced by the same visionary behind the first King Kong movie, promises to set the mood for our next day’s adventure.

Accommodation aboard the Heritage Line cruise in a private cabin with en-suite bathroom.

Day 11 - Khok Ek – Pakbeng – Huay Ting

Rise with the sun for the option of an invigorating yoga class. As the ‘Anouvong’ gracefully navigates upstream, indulge your creative side in a bamboo weaving workshop, where you'll craft your own bamboo basket—a cherished memento of this traditional art.

Post-lunch, the next stop of our journey is Pakbeng. Along the riverside opposite of the town and nestled in the jungle lies Laos' most sustainable elephant sanctuary. Here, in an almost pristine natural setting, we have the privilege of encountering these majestic creatures. Born in Laos and once employed as logging elephants, they now find sanctuary in a peaceful and natural environment, their ability to survive in the wild having been curtailed in captivity. The sanctuary, a symbol of ecotourism and sustainability, reflects a deep commitment to these principles. Witnessing these gentle giants in the rainforest, and learning about their unique stories, makes for an unforgettable experience. If time allows, we'll take you to a hilltop vantage point in Pakbeng town (by vehicle), offering breath-taking panoramic views—perfect for capturing enduring memories. There is a remaining small Buddhist temple on the hill top of the former Lan Na Kingdom. Many of the temples had been destroyed during wars with the Thai Kingdom 300 years ago.

As the afternoon unfolds, our journey continues, culminating in our final overnight mooring spot. Once again, we anchor at a splendid sandbank, creating a picturesque setting for a relaxed aperitif, ideally accompanied by a stunning sunset. Subsequently, a farewell dinner is served on the terrace deck, marking the conclusion of this remarkable journey.

Accommodation aboard the Heritage Line cruise in a private cabin with en-suite bathroom.

Day 12 - Khok Ek to Chiang Rai

After an exhilarating 3-night cruise, today invites a more leisurely pace, allowing you to savour the memories created during our journey. With a substantial distance to cover before reaching Huay Xai, our final destination, the day unfolds with a blend of relaxation and exploration.

Feel free to extend your morning snooze if desired. Breakfast is intentionally simplified, with fewer choices or à la carte, as we prepare for a diverse culinary brunch later- a prelude to bidding farewell. As we sail into the heart of the Golden Triangle, the morning is yours to relax or engage in our captivating presentation unravelling the intricate history of the Golden Triangle, exploring its complexities of colonialism, opium, conflicts, and the roles played by Burma, Thailand, Laos, Britain, China. The Golden Triangle, where Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos meet, extends far into each country. The name "Golden Triangle" was originally invented by the CIA referring to this area.

We are passing the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Tha River, a major tributary known as the "Green River". Our captain expertly navigates through rocks, rapids, and sandbanks, offering a fascinating observation from the terrace deck.

Just before appetites awaken, we delve into the lifestyle aspect of our final cruising day. Engage in a culinary Lao cooking class, setting the stage for a brunch featuring a buffet spread of enticing mains and desserts to tantalize your taste buds. Relax and relish the concluding tranquil hours of our voyage, with brunch served until approximately an hour before arrival, available in the restaurant, lounge, or on the terrace deck.

As we dock at Huay Xai pier in the mid-afternoon, we facilitate a seamless transfer to the Lao-Thai border.

Upon arrival at Chiang Khong (Thai Border), meet our local English Speaking Guide and transfer to the hotel in Chiang Rai.

Overnight at hotel in Chiang Rai

Day 13 - Chiang Rai

After breakfast, our guide will pick you up at your hotel for a drive to the northern town of Chiang Rai. Experience all the highlights of Chiang Rai in one day, including the magnificent Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), it’s a unique design mixing contemporary and classic style and Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple). Next stop is “The Black House”, the artistic private home of Dr. Tawan  Duchanee, one of the most famous Thai artists who is native of Chiang Rai.Mae Sai border town with Myanmar, the northern-most point of Thailand. Lunch at local restaurant and visit The Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos converge. Take a boat trip on the mighty Mekong River. Transfer back to your hotel in Chiang Rai.

Day 14 - Chiang Rai

After breakfast, cultivation of the opium poppy benefits from a cooler climate in high elevation area. Doi Tung is the highest mountain in Chiang Rai and the range borders onto Myanmar. At one time, this was a huge poppy producing area, producing 30-40% of the world’s supply of opium. In 1987, Doi Tung Development Project was established according to the Princess Mother initiative. Opium cultivation has been virtually eliminated following the Royal Crop substitution Project. 

A visit is made at Royal Villa, the beloved private home of the Princess Mother and her beautiful private botanical garden.  Continue driving  to Doi Mae Salong known as Baan Satikiri-the settlement of remnant Yunan Chinese Kuomintang (93rd regiment) Refugees. The village is surrounded by green tea plantation fields, grown to replace the opium poppy of the past. Enjoy a delicious green tea test here. Lunch will be at Mae Salong villa –the most popular Chinese restaurant in the village On the same mountain, visit the Akha and Yao Hill Tribe villages. Most of these Tribes migrated across the border from Myanmar into Thailand more than 150 years ago before return back to the hotel.

Day 15 - Chiang Rai to Bangkok

A day at leisure before getting picked up by your guide for your transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Bangkok.

Day 16 - Bangkok

Full day explorer the City of Angle, including the visit Pak Klong Talad (Flower Market), then step to Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew, and enjoy on Thonburi Klong Tour and Wat Arun before heading back to hotel by minivan.

Explore Bangkok by starting visit Pak Klong Talad (Flowers market). The huge flowers and wet market of Pak Klong Talad, is a photographer's dream with orchids and blossoms from Thailand's cooler north, along with exotic vegetables and fruit. Afterwards head to Grand Palace; the seat not only of the king and his court, but contained within its crenelated walls, the entire government administration. The architecture is vibrantly Thai though there are some European designs as well. Brilliantly coloured and gilded, and decorated with intricate detail, the overall effect is dazzling. The palace served as the official residence of the kings of Thailand from the 18th to the mid-20th century. The most famous building on the palace grounds is Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple (wat) in Thailand. Construction of the temple began when King Rama I moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok in 1785. Unlike other Thai temples, it does not contain living quarters for monks; rather, it has only the richly decorated holy buildings, statues, and pagodas. The main temple building houses the Emerald Buddha. Though green in colour, the Buddha is actually carved from a single piece of jade, and though only 17 inches tall, is the most revered object in Thailand. The majority of halls and palaces can be viewed from outside only. Continue to the adjacent Wat Pho, the most extensive temple in Bangkok, with its colossal Reclining Buddha and the Chedis of the Kings. Lunch at local restaurant.

After lunch, enjoy a Thonburi Klongs boat tour stopping at Wat Arun. Among the best ways to explore Bangkok is by boat. A cruise along the Chao Phraya River - the city's lifeblood - and the canals of Thonburi reveal scenes at odds with the bustling, modern inner city. Visitors get a glimpse of the serene and simple lifestyle of riverbank dwellers. This picturesque view is what earned Bangkok the title of "Venice of the East.", includes the visiting to Wat Arun knows as the temple of Dawn, is a significant landmark, on the riverside of Bangkok.

Day 17 - Bangkok

Escape the buzz of Bangkok and discover Thai life outside of the capital in the surrounding countryside. The area is famous for Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and the Mae Klong Train Market. We visit these two famous sites in a different way to other travel companies, offering a unique excursion.

Take on the train to the most excited Mae Klong Railway Market.  Then sightseeing the fresh local market before continue to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and take a long-tailed motor boat for sightseeing the river canals life.  You will stop to learn and taste Thai Sweet local products.  The last visit is Wat Bang Kae Noi.  The beautiful and explicit design was made by skilled wood craftsmen from Phetchaburi province where woodcarving is famous. Therefore, Wat Bang Kae Noi is the place that remains the beautiful arts and culture and it is a new tourist attraction of Samut Songkram province.

Early morning, we set off and drive to a railway station to board the non-air-conditioned 3rd class carriage. Lean back and enjoy the approx. 20 minutes scenic journey along salt and rice paddies into the famous Mae Klong railway market - a market where the stalls are laid out on both sides of the railway tracks. When the train comes through, the tents and goods are moved from the rails at lightning speed. After the train has sped by, everything is moved back within a few seconds so that no one would suspect a conduit for a train. After exploration of the market, drive to a jetty pier take a longtail boat, and journey along the winding canals to see remote villages, gardens, and plantations. Disembark at the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market - this is the floating market you see in most Bangkok postcards. Running along a network of canals just off the Mae Klong River, Damnoen Saduak is abuzz at early morning with wooden rowboats selling all kinds of fruits, vegetables, and ready-to-eat snacks. As touristy as it may sound the market still best preserves its old style of trading. It is even more vivacious today with the diversity of products sold. Khao Lam, sticky rice in bamboo tubes, is not easily found at the local market in Bangkok but it's a very popular purchase from rural provinces. During a visit to a local open-air Khao Lam producer, you will learn how this famous Thai sweet dish is made. After you have satisfied your taste buds with some freshly made Khao Lam, continue to Wat Bang Kae Noi and spend some time and praise the beauty of interior. Return to your hotel in Bangkok.

Day 18 - Bangkok to UK

Today marks the end of your itinerary, transfer to the airport for your onward flight home.