SOUTH EAST ASIA - STA Travel Hub

FR$2,84930 DAYSSOUTH EAST ASIA15-1718-192021-2223-242526-282930Hue / Halong Bay / Bai Chai HarbourExplore riverside garden tombs built for Vietnam’s last emperors or take a motorbike trip out intothe stunning countryside. On the evening of Day 16, board the overnight train to Hanoi. On Day17, arrive in the early morning into bustling Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam before driving out tobeautiful Halong Bay. Float through the strangely-shaped islands that dot this vast, emerald bay in atraditional wooden junk (boat). Eat your fresh seafood lunch and later enjoy a pre-dinner swim beforeyou head to Cat Ba Island, where you’ll spend a peaceful and relaxing night. (2B, L)HanoiExplore one of dozens of traditional guild streets that make up Hanoi’s ancient Old Quarter and joinBuddhist monks for prayers in a serene lakeside pagoda. In the evening, you’ll have the option toattend a performance at the famous Water Puppet Theatre, whilst other optional sightseeing hereincludes a visit to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, the Hoa Lo Prison or the Temple of Literature. (2B)VientianeA short flight takes you to the capital city of Laos. There is a wealth of cultural delights to discoverin Vientiane - on foot, by bicycle or, for the less energetic, by tuk-tuk. Visit Laos’ most importantnational monument, Phat That Luang, or meander down the dusty riverside tracks to discoverneighbourhoods full of friendly children, dogs and chickens. Go in search of handicrafts and souvenirsat Vientiane’s vibrant, colourful markets. Round off the day with a spectacular sunset over theMekong at one of the many riverside restaurants. (B)Vang ViengThe quiet town of Vang Vieng is set along the Nam Song River amidst rice fields and limestone cliffs.Explore the caves by bike or stop off for a cold drink at one of the numerous bamboo bars. In theevening, soak in the beauty as the sun sets over the rippling river. (2B)Luang PrabangThe beautiful town of Luang Prabang has a magical feel about it. Nestled in the hills of northernLaos on the confluence of the Mekong and Khan Rivers, it is dotted with ornate temples and Frenchcolonial architecture. Check out the impressive Royal Palace Museum, untouched since the royalfamily departed in 1975. Opt to hop on a songthaew to the beautiful Kuang Si Falls, where turquoisewaters cascade over limestone formations or cook up a storm in an optional cooking class. (2B)Mekong RiverBegin a two-day river cruise - a truly amazing ‘live like a local’ experience. Head up the mightyMekong River through magnificent jungle-covered hills to Pakbeng, an ethnic minority town.Experience an authentic overnight stay in a local village homestay, but bring your woolies if you’retravelling from Nov-Feb as it can get a little bit chilly! (B, D)Chiang Khong / Chiang MaiContinue by slow boat up the Mekong and cross over into Thailand at the Houeisay border. ChiangKhong is a small riverside town with cross-border trading from nearby villages. On Day 27, a drivethrough the hills of Northern Thailand takes you to Chiang Mai, the largest and most culturallysignificant city in the north of this country. Explore the city and visit the temple of Doi Suthep, catcha Thai boxing match or grab a bargain at the famous Night Market. Spend Day 28 exploring ChiangMai before boarding the overnight train to Bangkok in the evening. (B, L)BangkokArrive back into Bangkok early in the morning and set out exploring the city’s many varied sights.Check out the Grand Palace, Wat Po, National Museum and Jim Thompson’s House - just for a fewsuggestions! A trip along the Chao Phraya River and through the canals (or klongs) gives you adifferent perspective of daily life in this busy city. Get out and about in the colourful nightlife andenjoy a few goodbye drinks with your new friends.BangkokIt’s the end of your South East Asian adventure! Your tour ends after breakfast. (B)CALL 1300 676 561 TO BOOK21