HIGHLIGHTS OF INDOCHINA

Day 1 Arrive in Luang Prabang

Arrive in the UNESCO town of Luang Prabang in Laos. You would be forgiven for thinking you have stepped back in time as the preferred modes of transport are vintage cars, bicycles and tuk-tuks and the pretty tree-lined streets are overlooked by French colonial buildings and temples from a bygone era.

Overnight: La Residence Phou Vao

Day 2 Laotian Culture

The most spiritual experience is rising at dawn to witness the orange-clad monks lining the streets during their daily ritual of 'alms giving', where local residents offer sticky rice, mango and the sacred lotus flowers. Architectural highlights include the former Royal Palace and beautiful temples such as Wat Xieng Thong, with an E-bike tour giving you the freedom to roam. Markets are vibrant social events and fascinating insights in to local lives. Mount Phousi provides panoramic views of the town whilst the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre explains the social landscape.

Overnight: La Residence Phou Vao

Day 4 Fly to Siem Reap

Fly to Siem Reap in Cambodia this afternoon and be privately transferred to your idyllic hotel on the outskirts of Siem Reap. The balance of the evening is at leisure.

Overnight: Phum Baitang

Day 5 Sunrise and Angkorian Temples

Rise at dawn to witness sunrise at Angkor Wat, the mother of all temples and a bucket list moment. After a picnic breakfast, explore the peaceful temple with your guides after the crowds have dispersed. Continue to the immense walled city of Angkor Thom, the masterpiece of King Jayavarman VII Wander along the Terrace of the Leper King and the Terrace of Elephants, once a viewing gallery for the king to preside over parades, performances and traditional sports. See the jungle temple of Ta Prohm, where Tomb Raider was filmed and then on to Preah Khan, built in the late 12th century. Your tour finishes at the petite temple of Neak Poan with its elaborate fountain in the form of heads of lions and elephants. Head back to your hotel for an evening at leisure and a well earned rest. ​

Overnight: Phum Baitang

Day 6 Lost Temples and Landmines

This morning explore the lost temple of Beng Mealea, once a mirror image of Angkor Wat but now a jungle-strewn ruin. By contrast, Banteay Srei has stood the test of time since it was built by Brahman in the 10th Century and boasts intricate carvings in pink sandstone. Move on to modern day Cambodia with a visit to the Landmine Museum which promotes awareness and education of the horror of landmines in rural communities. Your day ends at Pre Rup, for a classic view of the Cambodia countryside before returning to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Overnight: Phum Baitang

Day 7 Tonle Sap Lake and fly to Hanoi

This morning travel southeast to one of the largest and least visited villages on the mighty Tonle Sap Lake. In wet season the stilted village appears to be floaring and the surrounding streets transform into canals which you can explore by local boat.

Return to Siem Reap by road and fly to the atmospheric capital of Vietnam, Hanoi. You will be met on arrival and privately transferred to your hotel in the heart of this vibrant city.

Overnight: Sofitel Metropole

Day 8 Mausoleums, Temples and Ancient Streets

Images of Ho Chi Minh ('Uncle Ho') are everywhere and a visit to his imposing mausoleum is always fascinating, but especially evocative at sunrise for the pomp and ceremony of the flag raising. The picturesque Temple of Literature was the country's first university and now only teaches the philosophies of Confucianism. A traditional cyclo tour is the best way to explore the colourful narrow streets of the Old Quarter and this is the best place to take in a water puppet show, dating back over 1000 years.

Overnight: Sofitel Metropole

Day 9 Drive to Hoa Binh

You will be driven four hours outside Hanoi to Panh Village in Hoa Binh where the air is fresh, birds sing and the views are magical. Your retreat sits amid 15 hectares of verdant forest overlooking the layered rice terraces and at the heart of the resort a waterfall cascades down the hilsside.

Overnight: Avana Retreat

Day 10 Rice Terraces and Waterfalls

Today is at leisure to swim in one of the four heated infinity pools, the refreshing waterfall or a natural spring. The thatched spa huts overlook the pristine forest and focus on treatments to connect your soul with nature. For the restless, activities can include a jeep adventure, mountain trekking, exploring local villages or escaping by kayak. Finish your day with a movie under the stars at the outdoor cinema.

Overnight: Avana Retreat

Day 11 Fly to Central Vietnam

Drive back to Hanoi in time to catch your flight to Danang in Central Vietnam. Your next stop is arguably the best hotel in Southeast Asia for time to relax on the beach.

Overnight: Four Seasons Nam Hai

Day 12 - 14 Beaches and Heritage in Central Vietnam

The historic town of Hoi An, protected by UNESCO, is just 15 minutes away and offers a charming combination of Vietnamese architecture, riverside cafe culture, markets and silk shops. The rest of your time can be enjoyed simply relaxing in your luxurious villa, lapping one of the stunning infinity pools or being pampered in the fantastic spa.

Overnight: Four Seasons Nam Hai

Day 15 Depart

Say goodbye to this special part of the world as you are driven back to the airport for your flight home.