THAILAND
LAOS
VIETNAMCAMBODIA
Bangkok
Phuket
Ko Samui
Chiang Mai
Phnom Penh
Vientiane
Hanoi
Siem Reap
Ho Chi Minh City
Luang Prabang
Bangkok to Hanoipage : 70, TLSV
Cruise down the Meking River for a unique look at Laos. Watch the slow pace of rural life glide by while taking in the breathtaking river scenery.
Mekong Cruise
Laos Discoverypage : 70, TLRK
Rise early to join the locals to give alms. This ancient ritual is played out daily as people line the streets and distribute sticky rice to the monks as they file past.
Offer Alms
Sapa Adventurepage : 63, TVAG
Take a walk along buffalo paths in the lush Sapa region in Vietnam’s north. Wander through colourful hilltribe villages and drop in to say hi to the locals.
Sapa Trek
indochina
South Vietnam Getawaypage : 65, TVAS
Crawl into the Cu Chi Tunnels to discover how life was for the Viet Cong. These tunnels once stretched from Ho Chi Minh City all the way to the Cambodian border.
Cu Chi Tunnels
Intrepid’s real life experiences in indochina…
From the French-influenced cities of Vietnam to the meandering waters of the Mekong and the ancient temples of Cambodia, discover serene retreats, spiritual landscapes and sensational food in Indochina.
THAILAND
LAOS
VIETNAMCAMBODIA
Bangkok
Phuket
Ko Samui
Chiang Mai
Phnom Penh
Vientiane
Hanoi
Siem Reap
Ho Chi Minh City
Luang Prabang
Cambodia Adventurepage : 68, TKRR
Settle in for a quiet drink at a chilled-out riverside hammock bar. Spend a relaxed afternoon swinging lazily and soaking up the tranquil atmosphere.
Chill Out
Scenic Vietnampage : 57, TVSR
Set sail on Halong Bay aboard a traditional junk. Up on deck, sit back and catch some rays while enjoying some of the most specatular karst scenery on the planet.
Halong Bay
J F M A M J J A S O N D
104ºF
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Average Min Average Max
J F M A M J J A S O N D
104ºF
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J F M A M J J A S O N D
104ºF
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4in
0in
40ºC
30ºC
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0ºC
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tem
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J F M A M J J A S O N D
104ºF
86ºF
68ºF
50ºF
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16in
12in
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4in
0in
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30ºC
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vietnam south
tem
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Photo Competition, The conical hat, Vietnam - Elliot Freeman
56
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Classic VietnamPhySicAL
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iTiNERARy... Day 1 ho chi Minh city Daily life overflows onto
the streets, into the French-style cafes and quietens in the peaceful
pagodas of Ho Chi Minh City. Day 2 Mekong Delta Stop by the
ornate Vinh Trang Pagoda, cruise the meandering waterways of
the fertile Mekong Delta and enjoy traditional hospitality at a rural
homestay. Days 3-4 ho chi Minh city Awaken early to mingle
with locals at the floating markets. Drop by the mind-boggling
Cu Chi Tunnels on the way back to Ho Chi Minh CIty. Take in the
sights and sounds of the city on a cyclo tour. Visit the sobering
War Remnants Museum and swing by the Notre Dame Cathedral.
Step aboard the Reunification Express for an overnight train
travelling north. Days 5-6 Nha Trang With a stunning mountain
backdrop and a shimmering sea, Nha Trang is the perfect place
for a beach break. Jump on a cyclo tour, then cruise the nearby
islands, stopping to swim and snorkel in the balmy sea. Feast on
the day’s catch then experience the town’s nightlife. Days 7-9
hoi An A renowned port in the 16th and 17th centuries, Hoi An
still retains an enchanting sense of centuries past. Wander through
the local market, venture out to see the ancient Cham ruins at My
Son or perhaps cycle to nearby Cua Dai Beach to soak up some
of the sun’s rays. Days 10-11 hue Stop at lovely Lang Co Beach
for lunch en route to the walled city of Hue, once the exclusive
domain of Vietnam’s royal rulers. See the ruins of the Imperial
Citadel and a spectacular royal tomb before embarking upon a
river cruise. Day 12 hanoi Despite the throngs of bicycles, cyclos
and motorbikes, Hanoi retains its French-provincial air. Visit the
Temple of Literature and the Fine Arts Museum before attending
an evening water-puppet performance. Day 13 halong Bay Start
the day with breakfast at KOTO, an Intrepid-supported organisation
that trains disadvantaged young people in restaurant management
and hospitality. Visit a handicraft centre that assists locals living
with disabilities, then board a junk boat to cruise the jade waters
of Halong Bay. Discover secluded beaches, secret grottoes and
soaring karst peaks, and dine overlooking the incredible scenery.
Days 14-15 hanoi Stop by villages to see artisans crafting
traditional ceramics before making tracks back to Hanoi.
Get caught up in the • bustle of dynamic ho chi Minh city
Learn about local • life on a Mekong Delta homestay
Descend into the tight • confines of the cu chi Tunnels
Laze on the unspoilt • beaches of Nha Trang
Discover imperial • Vietnam in hue
Witness a traditional • water-puppet performance
Enjoy sumptuous • seafood banquets
cruise the sparkling • waters of halong Bay
Soak up the French • charm of hanoi
15 days, Ho Chi Minh City to HanoiDeparts every Saturday
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (11 nts), overnight sailing junk (1 nt), multishare homestay (1 nt), overnight train (1 nt) TRANSPORT Plane, overnight train, overnight boat, private bus, cyclo GROuP SiZE Max 12 MEALS 13 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Sat & selected Wed GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 152 kg pp per trip NOTES 1. Arrival airport to hotel transfers are included. Please provide your flight details at time of booking 2. A single supplement is available on this trip. TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.83 out of 5
Above: Photo Competition, Painting Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam - Jason Pemberton Below: Photo Competition, Rafting down the Mekong River, Vietnam - Anice Wong
ComfortTRiP cODE TVKT
A fantastic trip that covered all the highlights. And, it was made all the more special by our leader who showed us the heart and soul of his great country.
Mary Yallop, Australia Travelled on the TVKT
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
57
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Explore the evocative • Old Quarter of hanoi
Sail halong Bay•
Ride the famed • Reunification Express
Visit imperial hue•
Relax in hoi An•
Soak up the energy of • ho chi Minh city
Relax on Nha Trang’s • stunning beaches
Stroll the atmospheric • streets of hoi An
Ride a bike through • rice paddy fields
count the cyclos in hue•
unwind on halong Bay•
Stay on cat Ba island•
Experience the French • air of hanoi
Scenic Halong Bay, Vietnam
Colourful exotic fruit and vegetables, Vietnam - Tatiana Grozetskaya
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (11 nts), overnight train (2 nts), overnight sailing junk (1 nt) TRANSPORT Overnight train, overnight boat, minibus, cyclo GROuP SiZE Max 12 MEALS 12 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 1 Dinner BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Wed & Sat GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 152 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.81 out of 5
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (10 nts), homestay (1 nt), overnight train (3 nts) TRANSPORT Overnight train, bus, boat, ferry, bicycle GROuP SiZE Max 16 MEALS 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Sun & selected Wed GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 246 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.63 out of 5
Scenic Vietnam
Vietnam Discovery
iTiNERARy... Days 1-2 hanoi Get lost in the whirl of colour,
commotion and horn-blowing traffic. Visit the father of modern
Vietnam’s mausoleum and end the day at a water-puppet show.
Days 3-4 halong Bay/hanoi Have breakfast with the kids at
the Blue Dragon Charity before leaving the frenetic pace of city
life behind to sail on Halong Bay. Swim among the soaring karsts,
shimmy into limestone caves and be rocked to sleep by the boat
bobbing on the water. Returning to Hanoi, travel overnight on
the Reunification Express, heading south. Days 5-6 hue Imagine
the opulence of imperial Vietnam within the Thai Hoa Palace, see
the scars of former wars in the Forbidden Purple City or discover
the legacy left behind by the fussy Emperor Tu Duc’s tomb. Relax
aboard a Perfume River cruise. Days 7-9 hoi An Travel through
coastal rice paddies to the fishing village of Lang Co before
heading into the mountains and crossing the breathtaking Hai
Van Pass. Take a step back in time in the ancient streetscapes of
Hoi An. Here there are centuries-old family homes to explore, the
wonderful Japanese Covered Bridge to wander across and bowls
of mouth-watering cao lau to try. Days 10-12 Nha Trang Devour
a delicious seafood lunch, float in basket boats, then dive into the
sparkling waters of the South China Sea. Days 13-15 ho chi
Minh city Enjoy a relaxed cyclo tour through the city. Later, take
a rowboat along the Mekong Delta. Learn the secrets of longan
honey from a family of beekeepers and gain insight into rural life on
a village visit before ending the adventure back in Ho Chi Minh City.
iTiNERARy... Day 1 ho chi Minh city Perhaps arrive early to
see the city’s star attractions, including the Reunification Palace
and War Remnants Museum. Days 2-3 Mekong Delta Cruise
the mighty Mekong before spending the night with local friends
at a homestay by the water. Days 4-5 Nha Trang Bask on Nha
Trang’s golden beaches, take a boat trip to nearby islands or
sample sumptuous seafood. For an artistic interlude, why not head
to the Long Thanh Gallery? Days 6-8 hoi An Almost untouched
by time, Hoi An is enthralling. Wander through the atmospheric
Phung Hung Old House or check out the carp-shaped rain spouts
on the Quan Cong Temple roof. Get a dose of rustic rural charm on
a bike ride through the countryside. Days 9-11 hue As well as an
array of ancient imperial ruins, Hue has some other claims to fame
- it’s the birthplace of degustation-style Vietnamese cuisine, the
centre of Vietnamese Buddhism and boasts the country’s greatest
cyclo-to-person ratio. Day 12 hanoi Soak up the Old Quarter on a
walking tour. Afterwards continue exploring; spend some dong at
the eclectic shops along Pho Hang Gai, check out the Dong Xuan
Market or catch a water-puppet show. Day 13 halong Bay Stop
by a local initiative that supports people living with disabilities.
Enjoy the day’s catch while cruising past spectacular limestone
karsts rising out of the sea, then spend a night on jungle-covered
Cat Ba Island. Maybe take a morning dip if the water’s warm
enough. Days 14-15 hanoi There’s time for a final Vietnamese
feast back in one of the fantastic restaurants in the capital.
15 days, Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
15 days, Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi
Departs every Wednesday & Saturday
Departs every Sunday
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Arriving early?
Explore the sublimely beautiful Mai Chau region on a two-day break from Hanoi. See page 64 for details.
BasIxTRiP cODE TVRN
orIgInalTRiP cODE TVSR
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
58
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Take part in a cooking • class in hanoi
Enjoy a water-puppet • performance
Wander through local • markets in hoi An
Visit imperial hue•
Explore the Mekong • Delta by boat
Spend a night in a • rural homestay
Savour the spicy • cuisine of ho chi Minh city
Enjoy a boat trip on • beautiful halong Bay
Discover the history of • the Nguyen dynasty in ancient hue
Paddle along the delta•
Embrace the energy of • ho chi Minh city
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
Tasty Vietnamese cuisine - Thanh Lam
Flowering bonsai, Vietnam - Sally Johnson
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (7 nts), homestay (1 nt), overnight train (1 nt) TRANSPORT Plane, overnight train, private bus, boat, cyclo GROuP SiZE Max 12 MEALS 9 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Sat GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 101 kg pp per trip NOTES 1. Please note that some accommodation may be multishare or have shared bathroom facilities. 2. Arrival airport transfer is included, so please advise flight details at time of booking. 3. A single supplement is available on this trip. TRAVELLER RATiNG Not applicable as this is a new itinerary
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (7 nts), overnight train (1 nt), overnight sailing junk (1 nt) TRANSPORT Plane, overnight train, overnight boat, minibus, cyclo GROuP SiZE Max 12 MEALS 8 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Wed, Fri, Sun & selected Thu GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 302 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.84 out of 5
Start Finish201117 Apr 26 Apr17 Jul 26 Jul21 Aug 30 Aug
18 Sep 27 Sep16 Oct 25 Oct20 Nov 29 Nov11 Dec 20 Dec
201201 Jan 10 Jan15 Jan 24 Jan29 Jan 07 Feb12 Feb 21 Feb
11 Mar 20 Mar15 Apr 24 Apr29 Apr 08 May13 May 22 May
A Taste of Vietnam
Vietnam Express Southbound
iTiNERARy... Days 1-2 hanoi Stroll around pagoda-studded
lakes before savouring delicious northern delicacies at a cooking
class at KOTO, a training restaurant for disadvantaged youth. Sizzle,
slice and dice while learning about the intricacies of local cuisine.
Embark on a cyclo tour of the atmospheric Old Quarter and take
in a performance starring Hanoi’s famous water puppets. Stock
up on tasty Vietnamese snacks for an overnight train journey
south. Days 3-4 hue Get caught up in the energy of the Dong
Ba Market. Visit the captivating ruins of the Imperial Citadel as
well as the remarkable royal tombs and enjoy a dragonboat cruise
along the Perfume River. Days 5-6 hoi An Discover the wealth of
produce available at the market before enjoying another chance
to chop, boil and broil in a cooking class. Later, there’s time to
explore the ancient streets of this charming heritage town. Day 7
ho chi Minh city Admire the wonderful weaving skills of cyclos
while getting acquainted with Ho Chi Minh City's main sights
on a tour through its frenetic streets. Delve into history at the
fascinating War Remnants Museum. Later, tempt tastebuds with
some spicy southern fare from a street food stall. Day 8 Mekong
Delta homestay Cruise the many channels of the Mekong Delta,
sample freshly-picked tropical fruit and feast on local food at a rural
homestay. Days 9-10 ho chi Minh city Rise to the sounds of
the Delta and head to the famous floating markets on the Mekong.
Head back to the city for a final gastronomic fling with newfound
friends at one of Ho Chi Minh City’s finer restaurants.
iTiNERARy... Day 1 hanoi With its French-colonial buildings,
graceful boulevards and aromatic cafe au lait, Hanoi has an elegant
timelessness. Take in the ambience strolling around the city streets
or taste the country’s blend of old-world Europe and modern Asia
in the restaurants. Days 2-3 halong Bay An overnight boat trip in
this bay of wonders is sure to be a memorable experience. Sit back
and soak up the scenery, swim in the balmy waters and sleep on
board beneath a star-studded sky. Travel the famed Reunification
Express railway for an overnight journey to Hue. Days 4-5 hue
Appointed as the imperial capital due to its beauty and isolation,
Hue will enchant. Let the royal past come to life among the ruins
of the Imperial Citadel and the Nguyen emperors’ intricate tombs.
Then unwind on a cruise down the Perfume River. Days 6-7 hoi
An Traverse the spectacular Hai Van Pass en route to Hoi An, once
a thriving port town. Today, trade remains central to everyday
life, with shops offering everything from custom-made shoes to
tailored clothes and silk lanterns. Get a pair of boots made or pick
up some traditional paintings for friends and family back home.
Days 8-10 ho chi Minh city See the sights of the city from a
cyclo and be moved by the War Remnants Museum. Head out to
the Mekong Delta for the day and sample regional specialities such
as the quirky, elephant ear fish. Board sampans and paddle through
tributaries in the delta. Spot the stunning Dragon, Unicorn, Tortoise
and Phoenix islets. The lush scenery in this part of the world makes
a fabulous backdrop for final photos.
10 days, Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
10 days, Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh CityDeparts every Wednesday, Friday & Sunday
PhySicAL
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Sapa Adventure...
Discover breathtaking vistas, remote villages and colourful hilltribes on a five-day Sapa trip. See trip code TVAG.
orIgInalTRiP cODE TVSF
ComfortTRiP cODE TVKF
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
59
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Get caught up in ho • chi Minh city’s buzz
Delve into the • underground world of Viet Minh guerillas
Embark on a shopping • spree in hoi An
Peer into Vietnam’s • imperial past in hue
Experience the magic • of halong Bay
Relax with a strong • Vietnamese coffee at a hanoi cafe
Experience historical • hue by bicycle
conquer the stunning • hai Van Pass
cycle in the remote • central highlands
unwind on the shores • of the South china Sea
Decorative temple, Hoi An, Vietnam
Photo Competition, Happy rice farmer, Hue, Vietnam - John Kardy
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (7 nts), overnight sailing junk (1 nt) overnight train (1 nt) TRANSPORT Plane, overnight train, overnight boat, minibus, cyclo GROuP SiZE Max 12 MEALS 8 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Sun & selected Wed & Fri GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 302 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.63 out of 5
AccOMMODATiON Hotel/guesthouse (12 nts), simple stilt house (1 nt), overnight train (1 nt) TRANSPORT Overnight train, private bus, support vehicle, boat, bicycle GROuP SiZE Max 12 MEALS 13 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Sat GuARANTEE Subject to min 4 cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 152 kg pp per trip NOTES Bike hire is available or travellers can bring their own bike, helmet and tool pouch with spares. Please see Trip Notes for further details of cycling requirements. TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.86 out of 5
Start Finish201108 Jan 22 Jan22 Jan 05 Feb12 Feb 26 Feb12 Mar 26 Mar16 Apr 30 Apr
14 May 28 May16 Jul 30 Jul20 Aug 03 Sep17 Sep 01 Oct08 Oct 22 Oct22 Oct 05 Nov05 Nov 19 Nov
19 Nov 03 Dec03 Dec 17 Dec17 Dec 31 Dec31 Dec 14 Jan201214 Jan 28 Jan28 Jan 11 Feb
11 Feb 25 Feb10 Mar 24 Mar14 Apr 28 Apr19 May 02 Jun16 Jun 30 Jun
Vietnam Express Northbound
Cycle Vietnam
iTiNERARy... Days 1-2 ho chi Minh city Soak up the endless
energy of Ho Chi Minh City from above with a cocktail at a rooftop
bar or get in the middle of it slurping steaming pho at a street
stall. Delve into an underground world of guerilla warfare in
the incredible Cu Chi Tunnels before visiting the War Remnants
Museum. Days 3-4 hoi An Lined with centuries-old temples,
crumbling houses and gilded community halls, the streets of Hoi
An offer plenty of sights to discover. The many art galleries, shops
and cafes are also a great way to while away time. Days 5-6 hue
Head up into the clouds, driving over the Hai Van Pass, en route to
the regal city of Hue. Sense the spirits of the Nguyen dynasty amid
the intricate tombs, ruined palaces and weathered pagodas within
the crumbling citadel walls. Take it all in while cruising the waters
of the Perfume River on a dragonboat. Day 7 hanoi Following
a hearty breakfast at KOTO restaurant head out for independent
explorations. Perhaps head to Ba Dinh Square to rub shoulders
with local Vietnamese, who visit to pay respects to the country’s
revolutionary leader, embalmed and displayed in a glass case in
an imposing mausoleum. Afterwards, discover exotic smells and
intriguing sights in the evocative Old Quarter. Day 8 halong Bay
Thousands of towering limestone peaks form a stunning backdrop
for a relaxing overnight boat trip in Halong Bay. Days 9-10 hanoi
Back in the capital there’s time for a cyclo ride past old French-style
mansions, to peruse silk shops in Pho Hang Gai or to relax with a
strong Vietnamese coffee at a charming cafe.
iTiNERARy... Days 1-2 hanoi Visit the imposing Ho Chi Minh
Mausoleum Complex. There’s time afterwards to cycle the Old
Quarter - a shopper’s delight. Day 3 Mai chau Leave Hanoi
behind and head to Luong Son. Here it’s time to saddle up and
let pedal power take over. Cycle past spectacular karst cliffs and
admire the lush panorama of the Mai Chau valley on the way to
stunning Thung Khe Pass. Enjoy a homestay in the village of Pom
Coong. Days 4-5 Ninh Binh Ride along rural roads to the ancient
rainforests of Cuc Phuong National Park. Meet furry-faced monkeys
at the Endangered Primate Rescue Center before falling asleep to
jungle sounds. Day 6 hue Arrive in Hue after an overnight train
journey. Hop back into the saddle and see the many magnificent
tombs, temples, palaces and pagodas this former imperial capital is
packed with. Days 7-8 hoi An Conquer the long Hai Van Pass and
be rewarded with stunning views of the coast. Continue working
those legs with a cycle to Cua Dai Beach or take the chance to rest
in historic Hoi An. Day 9 Quy Nhon Pedal the road less travelled
all the way to the beach and bay of Quy Nhon. Days 10-11 Nha
Trang Continue the journey to the coastal resort of Nha Trang.
Relax on a boat trip to offshore islands, read a book in the shade
or let the hands of a skilled masseur soothe those aching muscles.
Days 12-13 Dalat Tackle challenging mountain roads or take it
easy and flag down the bus en route to Dalat. Days 14-15 ho chi
Minh city After a final cycling stint, it’s on to exciting Ho Chi Minh
City for a well-deserved celebratory feast.
10 days, Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi
15 days, Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
Departs every Sunday
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Staying on after?
Get to know the south a little better on a South Vietnam Getaway. See trip code TVAS for all the details.
aCtIVEorIgInalTRiP cODE TVXB
orIgInalTRiP cODE TVSQ
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
60
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For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
AccOMMODATiON Hotel/guesthouse (17 nts), homestay (1 nt), overnight sailing junk (1 nt) TRANSPORT Train, minibus, overnight boat, cyclo GROuP SiZE Max 12 MEALS 18 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 3 Dinners BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Sun GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 202 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.78 out of 5
Above: Photo Competition, Vibrant lotus flower, Vietnam - Judi Quan Below: Photo Competition, Cooking time, Vietnam - Angela Vaughn
Best of VietnamPhySicAL
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iTiNERARy... Days 1-2 ho chi Minh city Discover this dynamic
economic hub on a cyclo tour through chaotic streets. An excursion
to the War Remnants Museum makes for a reflective interlude. In
free time, hunt for a bargain at the Ben Thanh and Russian markets.
Days 3-4 Mekong Delta/ho chi Minh city Explore the intricate
waterways of the mighty Mekong en route to a homestay. Wake
early to watch the delta come alive with floating markets. Visit the
Cu Chi Tunnels to unearth a world of underground mystery before
heading back to Ho Chi Minh City for the night. Days 5-6 Dalat
Vietnam’s ‘honeymoon capital’ is like spring all year round, with its
cool climate, charming French villas and vibrant market. Visit Bao
Dai’s Summer Palace on a morning city tour. Days 7-8 Nha Trang
Enjoy breathtaking views around every corner on the Ngoan Muc
Pass and stop at the striking Ponagar Cham Towers. In Nha Trang,
sultry waters, swaying palms and a sailboat await. Take it all in on a
leisurely cruise around the nearby islands. Day 9 Quy Nhon Relish
the breathtaking scenery travelling to Quy Nhon, where there’s a
chance to spend time teaching English to local kids at the Nguyen
Nga Training Centre. Days 10-12 hoi An Make a sobering stop
at the My Lai Memorial on the way to World Heritage-listed Hoi
An. Boasting more than 500 tailors and handicraft shops, Hoi
An is a shopper’s paradise. Days 13-14 hue Stop at the famed
China Beach en route to the former imperial capital of Hue. Take
a dragonboat cruise along the timeless Perfume River, visit the
impressive citadel and admire Thien Mu Pagoda. Day 15 Ninh
Binh Travel by train to friendly Ninh Binh where farmers and
their buffaloes work the picturesque rice paddies. Day 16 cuc
Phuong National Park Get close to monkeys and gibbons at the
Endangered Primate Rescue Center, and see some of the incredible
work being done to help injured, orphaned and threatened
species. Day 17 halong Bay Cruise among dramatic karsts rising
out of the emerald waters of Halong Bay while enjoying a delicious
banquet lunch. Days 18-20 hanoi Dine at KOTO, take a stroll
along leafy boulevards to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum - the final
resting place of Vietnam’s founding father - and see a traditional
water-puppet performance.
20 days, Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
orIgInalTRiP cODE TVST
Discover dynamic • ho chi Minh city
cruise along the • Mekong River
Experience life • underground in the cu chi Tunnels
Sail the sparkling • waters of Nha Trang
Bargain-hunt in the • markets of hoi An
Explore the tombs and • temples of hue
Go gibbon-spotting • in the cuc Phuong National Park
Witness the beauty of • halong Bay
Enjoy a traditional • water puppet performance in hanoi
I would recommend this to anyone wishing to see the real Vietnam. If you’re looking for adventure then this is the trip for you. I really loved it!
Jenny Whiting, Australia Travelled on the TVST
Start Finish201102 Jan 21 Jan09 Jan 28 Jan16 Jan 04 Feb23 Jan 11 Feb30 Jan 18 Feb13 Feb 04 Mar27 Feb 18 Mar06 Mar 25 Mar13 Mar 01 Apr
27 Mar 15 Apr10 Apr 29 Apr17 Apr 06 May24 Apr 13 May08 May 27 May22 May 10 Jun05 Jun 24 Jun12 Jun 01 Jul19 Jun 08 Jul03 Jul 22 Jul10 Jul 29 Jul
17 Jul 05 Aug31 Jul 19 Aug07 Aug 26 Aug14 Aug 02 Sep28 Aug 16 Sep04 Sep 23 Sep11 Sep 30 Sep25 Sep 14 Oct02 Oct 21 Oct09 Oct 28 Oct16 Oct 04 Nov
23 Oct 11 Nov30 Oct 18 Nov06 Nov 25 Nov13 Nov 02 Dec20 Nov 09 Dec27 Nov 16 Dec04 Dec 23 Dec11 Dec 30 Dec18 Dec 06 Jan25 Dec 13 Jan
61
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Sail across stunning • halong Bay
Admire ancient royal • relics in hue
cycle through • stunning rural vistas near hoi An
Lie back on the • beaches of Nha Trang
Enjoy a steaming cup • of Vietnamese coffee
crawl through the • cramped environs of the cu chi Tunnels
Overnight in a • traditional homestay
Soothe muscles in a • relaxing hot spring
Get remote in the • villages of Sapa
Meet friendly h’mong • tribespeople
Photo Competition, Scenic Halong Bay, Vietnam - Dean Pemberton
Photo Competition, Selling brooms in traditional dress, H’mong, Vietnam - David Ling
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (10nts), overnight train (3nts) TRANSPORT Overnight train, bus, boat, ferry, bicycle GROuP SiZE Max 16 MEALS 1 Lunch BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Sun GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 141 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.65 out of 5
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (5 nts), homestay (1 nt), overnight train (1 nt) TRANSPORT Minibus, overnight train GROuP SiZE Max 12 MEALS 7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Mon GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 81 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATiNG Not applicable as this is a new itinerary
Start Finish201118 Apr 25 Apr11 Jul 18 Jul15 Aug 22 Aug
12 Sep 19 Sep17 Oct 24 Oct14 Nov 21 Nov26 Dec 02 Jan2012
02 Jan 09 Jan16 Jan 23 Jan30 Jan 06 Feb13 Feb 20 Feb27 Feb 05 Mar
12 Mar 19 Mar16 Apr 23 Apr14 May 21 May11 Jun 18 Jun
Vietnam Adventure
Vietnam Northwest Loop
iTiNERARy... Day 1 hanoi Arrive early to explore Hanoi’s
pagoda-studded lakes or jump on a cyclo and take in the sights of
this alluring city of contrasts. Why not stop for a strong Vietnamese
coffee and a tasty French pastry? Day 2 halong Bay Board a boat
for a scenic cruise through Halong Bay’s emerald waters, sailing
past limestone karsts and secluded lagoons. Indulge in a gourmet
seafood lunch, lounge on deck to soak up the sun then perhaps
cool off with a swim. Days 3-4 hanoi Explore the Old Quarter on
a walking tour and wind up next to the tranquil waters of Hoan
Kiem Lake. Choose to visit the mausoleum complex dedicated
to Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam’s founding father. Days 5-6 hue See
the royal treasures of Hue on a bicycle or take a boat trip along
the Perfume River. Don’t miss the Imperial Citadel with its ruined
Forbidden Purple City and its nine bronze urns. Days 7-9 hoi An
Journey over the Hai Van Pass, calling into China Beach. Explore the
peaceful countryside around Hoi An on a bicycle ride. Gain insight
into rural life while pedalling around this lush landscape. Back in
Hoi An, perhaps master Vietnamese culinary skills in a cooking
class. Days 10-12 Nha Trang Relax on soft sand beaches or
snorkel the offshore reefs of Nha Trang. In free time, take a boat out
to Bamboo, Monkey or Bird’s Nest islands to explore the pristine
landscapes and to swim in the warm South China Sea. Days 13-14
ho chi Minh city Crawl into the Cu Chi Tunnels for a look at what
wartime life was like. Then discover the urban bustle of Ho Chi
Minh City - just watch out for the motorcycles!
iTiNERARy... Day 1 hanoi Admire the Temple of Literature
during a free day in the capital. Day 2 Mai chau Head to the town
of Mai Chau, passing fields of tapioca, sugar cane and rice along the
way. Meander through ethnic minority villages nestled in stunning
mountainous surrounds. Spend an unforgettable night with a
local family on a homestay. Day 3 Son La Home to Thai, Muong
and H’mong minorities, Son La is a fascinating stop. This area also
has historical significance for the role it played in the Vietnamese
struggle for independence during the first half the 20th century.
Day 4 Dien Bien Phu Visit the remains of a former French prison
and enjoy a dip in the local hot springs before driving to historic
Dien Bien Phu. Day 5 Muong Lay Gain an insight into the history
of the region on a walking tour. Call by the haunting Dien Bien
Phu museum, see Hill A1, then continue onto Muong Lay for the
night. Days 6-7 Sapa Make the journey east to Sapa. Admire
the remoteness of this region and soak up vistas few travellers
encounter. Enjoy a short trek at Binh Lu through endless green tea
plantations before driving through Hoang Lien Son Pass - this is
mountain scenery at its best. Keep a lookout for Mt Fanxipan, the
highest peak in Indochina. Once in Sapa, trek to the idyllic village
of Cat Cat, home to the H’mong. Have the chance to meet other
ethic minorities while in this part of Vietnam, including the Red
Zao and Tay people. Day 8 hanoi After an overnight train ride
from Lao Cai, head to KOTO restaurant for a farewell breakfast with
newfound friends in this energetic city.
14 days, Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
8 days, ex Hanoi
Departs every Sunday
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
orIgInalTRiP cODE TVSX
BasIxTRiP cODE TVRH
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
Hanoi up close...
Get acquainted with Vietnam’s modern capital on Urban Adventure’s Hanoi Highlights day tour.
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
62
Ind
och
ina
Best of Vietnam & CambodiaPhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
iTiNERARy... Day 1 hanoi Soak up the sights and scents of
the Old Quarter or enjoy the tranquility of the lakes over a rich
Vietnamese coffee. Days 2-3 halong Bay/hanoi Have a buffet
breakfast at KOTO, a restaurant that employs and trains local
disadvantaged youth, then experience the splendour of Halong
Bay from aboard a traditional sailing junk. Cruise through the
dramatic karst scenery and share meals overlooking the moody
bay, before returning to Hanoi to catch an overnight train.
Days 4-5 hue Float down the beautiful Perfume River aboard
a traditional dragonboat, passing pagodas and royal tombs.
Discover Hue’s regal past at the Imperial Citadel or taste gourmet
delicacies, such as delicious banh khoai (stuffed pancake) at Dong
Ba Market. Days 6-7 hoi An Once a prosperous river port, this
captivating town is now a World Heritage-listed site. Stroll the
ancient alleyways and shop for artwork, wood carvings or have a
whole new wardrobe tailor-made. Days 8-10 ho chi Minh city
Discover the chaotic streets of the city on a cyclo tour, stopping
off to visit the War Remnants Museum. Later, head to the Mekong
Delta for a chance to experience the languid pace of village life.
Days 11-12 Phnom Penh Discover Cambodia’s dark past in
the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and at the notorious Killing
Fields, a site marked by a memorial made of some 8,000 human
skulls. In free time, discover the delights of the Russian Market or
sip cocktails in Sisowath Quay. Days 13-15 Siem Reap/Angkor
Wat Temple-hop from sunrise to sunset to fully appreciate the
magnificence of Angkor Wat, the Bayon and Ta Prohm. The heart
and soul of the ancient Khmer Empire, these temples of Angkor
still evoke strong feelings of absolute awe and the panoramas here
are truly remarkable. Day 16 Battambang Admire the elegant
architecture left behind by the French, learn the secrets of delicious
Khmer cuisine in a cooking class, take a leisurely stroll along the
river or maybe hail an ox-cart to explore the tranquil surroundings.
Days 17-18 Bangkok Across the border in Thailand there’s time
to indulge in a relaxing massage, fill up on a tasty pad thai and
toast this great adventure with a cold Singha beer, before saying
goodbye to newly-made friends.
Soak up the • atmosphere of hanoi
Eat up for a good • cause at KOTO
cruise halong Bay•
Visit the imperial • relics of hue
have a new wardrobe • custom-made in hoi An
Discover a slower pace • of life in the Mekong Delta
Revisit cambodia’s • dark past in Phnom Penh
See the incredible • temples of Angkor
Marvel at the floating • township of Tonle Sap
Toast the adventure • with a beer in Bangkok
18 days, Hanoi to BangkokDeparts every Wednesday & Sunday
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (15 nts), overnight sailing junk (1 nt), overnight train (1 nt) TRANSPORT Plane, overnight train, overnight boat, private bus, boat (Oct - Feb subject to water levels), public bus, local bus, cyclo GROuP SiZE Max 12 MEALS 10 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 1 Dinner BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Wed, Sun & selected Thu & Fri GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 383 kg pp per trip NOTES 1. A single supplement is available on this trip. 2. Combination trip. Please see Trip Notes (Important Notes) for more details. TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.84 out of 5
Above: Photo Competition, Monk house, Siem Reap, Cambodia - Julie KennyBelow: Scenic river life, Cambodia - Ben Heys
orIgInalTRiP cODE TVSKC
I completely fell in love with Vietnam and Cambodia. And thanks to Intrepid, we were able to see and do things that so many travellers don’t usually get to experience.
Samara Robinson, USA Travelled on the TVSKC
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
63
Vietn
am
See ho chi Minh’s • mausoleum
Join locals to exercise • at hoan Kiem Lake
Take a Vietnamese • cooking class
Visit the inspirational • Sao Do centre
cruise halong Bay on a • traditional junk
Swim and kayak amid • stunning karst scenery
Visit the former French • hill station of Sapa
Trek through stunning • hilltribe villages
Meet friendly h’mong • tribespeople
Photo Competition, Cyclo rider taking a break, Vietnam - David Fok
Photo Competition, Boats and scenery of Halong Bay, Vietnam - Jeff Green
Photo Competition, Ladies in traditional dress, Sapa, Vietnam - Deborah Landy
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (1 nt) TRANSPORT Taxi, shared minivan MEALS 1 Breakfast, 2 Lunches BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Daily GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 20 kg pp per trip NOTES Pick up and drop off from your centrally located Hanoi hotel. Please provide hotel details at the time of booking. TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.00 out of 5
AccOMMODATiON Overnight sailing junk (1 nt) TRANSPORT Overnight boat, minibus, boat, kayak MEALS 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Daily, subject to availability cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 20 kg pp per trip NOTES Pick up and drop off from your centrally located Hanoi hotel. Please provide hotel details at the time of booking. TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.00 out of 5
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (1 nt), homestay (1 nt), overnight train (2 nts) TRANSPORT Overnight train, minibus MEALS 2 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Daily GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 51 kg pp per trip NOTES Pick up and drop off from your centrally located Hanoi hotel. Please provide hotel details at the time of booking. TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.88 out of 5
Hanoi City Experience
Halong Bay Junk Cruise
Sapa Adventure
iTiNERARy... Day 1 Arrive hanoi Start at the Ho Chi Minh
Mausoleum Complex, built on the site where Vietnam’s founding
father declared independence in 1945. Continue on to the Temple
of Literature, erected in honour of Confucius by Emperor Ly
Thanh Tong in 1070. Enjoy a lunch in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Visit
the Museum of Ethnology and learn more about the diversity of
Vietnam. Meander through the Hang Da or Dong Xuan markets
before finishing with a refreshing bia hoi. Day 2 Depart hanoi
Take a walk to Hoan Kiem Lake and see the city wake up. This is a
popular spot for locals to do their morning exercises and there’s
usually a chance to join in tai chi. After, enjoy a traditional breakfast
and a Vietnamese coffee at a roof top cafe. Travel to a family-run
restaurant for a cooking class. Shop at the market, learn the secrets
behind Vietnamese cooking and enjoy feasting on the results.
iTiNERARy... Day 1 hanoi/halong Bay Leave behind the
French style and Asian energy of Hanoi and head to the enchanting
surrounds of Halong Bay. Along the way, stop by an inspirational
handicraft centre run by, and for, disadvantaged people. Then
take to the emerald waters on a junk and sail among the 2,000
towering limestone karsts of Halong Bay. Spend the afternoon
swimming, exploring stalactite-encrusted caves, soaking up the
sun or kayaking to secluded lagoons. Finish the day with a delicious
dinner on board the boat. Day 2 halong Bay/hanoi After a
night spent in the heart of this spectacular bay, wake to the sounds
of waves gently lapping at the boat. Be sure to make time for an
early morning swim before breakfast. Spend the remainder of the
morning further exploring this World Heritage-listed site - a truly
special place. Return to the mainland and be driven back to Hanoi.
iTiNERARy... Day 1 hanoi/Overnight Train Wander around
the parks and lakes that help make Hanoi one of the greenest cities
in Asia, or sit and spot turtles in Hoan Kiem Lake. Board a sleeper
train bound for Lao Cai. Days 2-3 Sapa On arrival, transfer to Sapa
and trek to the village of Cat Cat. Meet Blue and Black H’mong
tribespeople and perhaps pick up handicrafts at a colourful village
market. The next day enjoy a scenic trek along buffalo paths. Stop
in at hilltribe villages, enjoy a picnic lunch and spend a memorable
night in the home of a Zay family in Ta Van village. Zay tribespeople
are adept at rice cultivation and are responsible for the manicured
terraces that stretch as far as the eye can see. Day 4 Sapa/
Overnight Train Hike through stunning rural countryside before
returning to Sapa. There’s time for a cup of Vietnamese coffee
before boarding a train. Day 5 hanoi Finish the trip in Hanoi.
2 days, ex Hanoi
2 days, ex Hanoi
5 days, ex Hanoi
Departs daily
Departs daily
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
TRiP cODE TVAN
TRiP cODE TVAG
orIgInalTRiP cODE TVAQ
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
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sHort BrEaK
sHort BrEaK
sHort BrEaK
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
64
Vietn
am
See the ancient • citadel of hue
Float down the • Perfume River on an evening cruise
Travel through • spectacular hai Van Pass
hone culinary skills • at a cooking class
Take a bike ride • through the streets of hoi An
Wander the cham • ruins of My Son
Fill up on delicious • Vietnamese treats
Enjoy a bike ride • through stunning hillside villages
Learn about customs • of the White Thai minority group
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
Photo Competition, Fishmarket, Vietnam - Valerie Hanley
Photo Competition, Buffalo minder, Vietnam - Graeme Edwards
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (3 nts) TRANSPORT Private minivan, bicycle MEALS 3 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Daily GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 40 kg pp per trip NOTES Pick up from your centrally located Hue hotel and drop off to your centrally located Hoi An hotel. Please provide hotel details at the time of booking. TRAVELLER RATiNG Not applicable as this is a new itinerary
AccOMMODATiON Homestay (1 nt) TRANSPORT Minivan, bicycle MEALS 1 Breakfast, 2 Lunches BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Daily, subject to availability GuARANTEE Subject to min 2 cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 20 kg pp per trip NOTES Pick up and drop off from your centrally located Hanoi hotel. Please provide hotel details at the time of booking. TRAVELLER RATiNG Not applicable as this is a new itinerary
Vietnam Getaway
Mai Chau Adventure
iTiNERARy... Day 1 hue imperial citadel/Rural Tour
Founded as a royal city in 1687, Hue is the gateway to the treasures
of Vietnam's royal past. Start explorations with a stroll through the
energetic local market at Dong Ba. Drop into the Imperial Citadel
before a traditional lunch at a nunnery. Take the opportunity to
learn more about Buddhism while here, then head out to the
countryside to see temples, tombs and pagodas. End the day
with a cruise down the Perfume River. Day 2 hoi An Walking
Tour/cooking class Head south through rural countryside and
the picturesque fishing village of Lang Co, stop off for a morning
coffee before ascending the dramatic Hai Van Pass. Arrive in Hoi
An and set out on a walking tour. Spend time in the local market
discovering all the varied produce on offer before an afternoon
cooking class. Chop, dice and then sample the fruits of your labour
during an evening meal. Day 3 hoi An countryside Bike Ride/
Boat Trip Make like a local and hop on a bike for a ride through
Hoi An’s rural surrounds. Then it’s all aboard a boat ride along the
Thu Bon river. Sit back and view daily life on the shore during this
leisurely cruise. With official sightseeing done for the day, it’s time
to pay a visit to the local tailors that Hoi An is famous for. Day 4
My Son World heritage Tour/hoi An Travel to the ruins of My
Son, Vietnam’s most important Cham site. Set in a verdant valley,
surrounded by hills and overlooked by the massive Cat’s Tooth
Mountain, the elaborate temples here reflect the rich cultural
traditions of the Cham.
iTiNERARy... Day 1 hanoi/Mai chau Escape the hectic pace
of life in the Vietnamese capital and travel to the clean air of the
mountains surrounding the Mai Chau Valley. Stop along the way
for photo opportunities of lush panoramas. Arrive into Mai Chau
and continue on to the village of Pom Coong. Meet the local hosts
and learn about the region’s people, their lifestyles, customs and
culture. This is a great opportunity to gain a unique insight into life
in this corner of Vietnam. Be sure to bring an appetite as lunch will
be a traditional affair with many delicious local cuisines on offer.
Burn off lunch on an afternoon bike ride through nearby villages,
stopping to take photos and chat with the locals. This breathtaking
ride takes us on small footpaths through the rice paddies of the
spectacular Mai Chau Valley, with its ring of mountains rising
up at every turn. Then it’s time to relax, take in a sunset over the
nearby mountains and toast an amazing day with a cold drink.
Day 2 Mai chau Trekking/hanoi Start the day with a hearty
breakfast in preparation for the day’s trekking. The people that
live in this region are from the White Thai minority group, and
there’ll be an opportunity to visit a number of villages and learn
more about their lifestyles, culture and customs with a local guide.
While the hike is not overly strenuous, a good pair of trekking
shoes is recommended. Be sure to stop along the way to capture
the moment and to soak up the pristine scenery. Return to the
homestay for lunch before hitting the road back to Hanoi where
this adventure ends on arrival.
4 days, Hue to Hoi An
2 days, ex Hanoi
Departs daily
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
Hanoi in-depth...
Soak up all the sights, sounds and smells of charming Hanoi on a four-day city break. See trip code TVAL.
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
TRiP cODE TVAZ sHort BrEaK
BasIxTRiP cODE TVAX sHort BrEaK
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
65
Vietn
am
Take a walking tour in • ho chi Minh city
See the noon ceremony • at cao Dai Temple
crawl through the • cu chi Tunnels
cruise down the • fertile Mekong Delta
Taste-test delicious • tropical fruits
Experience river life on • a village homestay
Meander through • vibrant chinatown
Admire the stately • Notre Dame cathedral
Watch merchants trade • on a floating market
Enjoying a rickshaw ride through town, Vietnam - Sally Johnson
Photo Competition, Mekong river boat, Vietnam - Matthew Lee
Photo Competition, Sampling the Cu Chi Tunnels, Vietnam - Steven Meharry
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (1 nt) TRANSPORT Minivan MEALS 1 Breakfast, 2 Lunches BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Daily GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 20 kg pp per trip NOTES Pick up and drop off from your centrally located Ho Chi Minh City hotel. Please provide hotel details at the time of booking. TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.00 out of 5
AccOMMODATiON Homestay (1 nt) TRANSPORT Private vehicle, boat, bicycle MEALS 1 Breakfast, 2 Lunches, 1 Dinner BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Daily, subject to availability GuARANTEE Subject to min 2 cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 20 kg pp per trip NOTES Pick up and drop off from your centrally located Ho Chi MInh City hotel. Please provide hotel details at the time of booking.TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.00 out of 5
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (2 nts), Homestay (1 nt) TRANSPORT Minivan, boat, cyclo, bicycle MEALS 3 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 1 Dinner BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Daily GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 40 kg pp per trip NOTES Pick up and drop off from your centrally located Ho Chi Minh City hotel. Please provide hotel details at the time of booking. TRAVELLER RATiNG Not applicable as this is a new itinerary
Ho Chi Minh Experience
Mekong Delta Farmstay
South Vietnam Getaway
iTiNERARy... Day 1 Arrive ho chi Minh city Start with a
morning walking tour to Chinatown. Weave through the maze
of narrow side streets filled with traditional medicine stores,
restaurants and calligraphy kiosks. Stop off at the Thien Hau
pagoda, dedicated to the goddess of seafarers. Enjoy lunch at a
traditional restaurant and continue on seeing the city’s fascinating
sights including the War Remnants Museum and Notre Dame
Cathedral. Day 2 Depart ho chi Minh city Journey into the
countryside to visit the Cao Dai Temple. Arrive in time for the noon
ceremony. Have lunch with a local family and learn about their
daily life. Continue on to the Cu Chi Tunnels, built by fighters during
the wars of last century. Learn more about the hardships they
faced and the amazing ingenuity employed to maintain life in the
tunnels. Afterwards, return to the frenetic pace of Ho Chi Minh City.
iTiNERARy... Day 1 ho chi Minh city/Mekong Delta
homestay Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta.
Vietnam’s ‘ricebowl’ is a green, fertile area where crops of coconut,
sugar cane, fruit and rice are abundant. Lush with rice paddies
and fish farms, this region is dotted with islands and picturesque
villages, and is a photographer’s delight. Take it all in while cruising
through the river and canals of the Mekong Delta. Spend the night
at a village home, set within a garden full of seasonal tropical fruits
such as longan, durian, mangosteen, banana and grapefruit. Learn
about life in the delta from our local hosts. Day 2 Mekong Delta/
ho chi Minh city Rise early to the sounds of the delta. Enjoy a
delicious breakfast before jumping on a bicycle to visit the local
market. Return to Ho Chi Minh City where there’s still plenty of time
to jump in a cyclo and join the crowds whizzing by.
iTiNERARy... Day 1 ho chi Minh city Start the day with a walk
through colourful Chinatown, stop off at the Thien Hau Pagoda
and sample Vietnamese delights during lunch at a traditional
restaurant. Visit the War Remnants Museum and Notre Dame
Cathedral. Day 2 cao Dai Temple/cu chi Tunnels Journey into
the countryside to see Cao Dai Temple. The religion of Cao Daoism
borrows elements from Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Taoism
and Confucianism. Have lunch with a local family then continue
to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Day 3 Mekong Delta Board a boat and
cruise along the maze of waterways, visiting some local cottage
industries. See fish farming at Phoenix Islet and spend the night on
a homestay in the delta. Day 4 Mekong Delta/ho chi Minh city
Ride a bicycle to see local floating markets, enjoy lunch with the
locals before heading back to the bright lights of the city.
2 days, ex Ho Chi Minh City
2 days, ex Ho Chi Minh City
4 days, ex Ho Chi Minh City
Departs daily
Departs daily
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
TRiP cODE TVAM sHort BrEaK
BasIxTRiP cODE TVAI sHort BrEaK
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66
Cam
bo
dia
See the sights of • ho chi Minh city
Experience rural • village life at a cambodian homestay
Soak up the tropics in • Sihanoukville
Explore the ancient • Angkor temples
Experience burgeoning • Phnom Penh
Find traces of French • elegance around Battambang
Watch the sun rise • over Angkor Wat
Explore rural • cambodian countryside by bike
Journey to the depths • of the Phnom chhnork caves
Take a dip in seaside • Sihanoukville
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
Photo Competition, Taking a stroll with an elephant, Cambodia - Daryl Rogers
Photo Competition, Reflection of Angkor Wat with water lillies, Cambodia - Anice Wong
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (11 nts), homestay (1 nt) TRANSPORT Bus GROuP SiZE Max 16 MEALS 4 Breakfasts, 1 Dinner BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Sat GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 111 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.50 out of 5
AccOMMODATiON Hotel/guesthouse (14 nts) TRANSPORT Bus, boat, bicycle GROuP SiZE Max 12 MEALS 6 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Sun GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 152 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.78 out of 5
Start Finish201102 Jan 16 Jan09 Jan 23 Jan23 Jan 06 Feb30 Jan 13 Feb06 Feb 20 Feb13 Feb 27 Feb20 Feb 06 Mar06 Mar 20 Mar13 Mar 27 Mar
20 Mar 03 Apr03 Jul 17 Jul17 Jul 31 Jul31 Jul 14 Aug14 Aug 28 Aug28 Aug 11 Sep11 Sep 25 Sep25 Sep 09 Oct09 Oct 23 Oct23 Oct 06 Nov06 Nov 20 Nov
13 Nov 27 Nov20 Nov 04 Dec27 Nov 11 Dec04 Dec 18 Dec11 Dec 25 Dec18 Dec 01 Jan25 Dec 08 Jan201201 Jan 15 Jan08 Jan 22 Jan15 Jan 29 Jan
22 Jan 05 Feb29 Jan 12 Feb12 Feb 26 Feb26 Feb 11 Mar11 Mar 25 Mar18 Mar 01 Apr25 Mar 08 Apr
Cambodia Discovery
Best of Cambodia
iTiNERARy... Day 1 ho chi Minh city The adventure begins in
Ho Chi Minh City. For those arriving early, a visit to the Reunification
Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral is recommended. Day 2 Phnom
Penh Head to the Cambodian capital. Find graphic reminders
of the country’s tragic history in the bone-chilling Tuol Sleng
Museum or take a stroll past the Silver Pagoda. Day 3 homestay
Travel into the countryside for a village homestay. Staying with
a friendly local family, this is a unique opportunity to experience
everyday rural life and to enjoy a traditional home-cooked meal.
Days 4-6 Sihanoukville Find a spot on the secluded beaches
that fringe Sihanoukville or take a boat trip out to nearby islands.
Day 7 Phnom Penh Make a return trip to the capital and take
this opportunity to see more sights of this beguiling city. Perhaps
wander through the bustling market stalls of Psar Thmei or simply
relax with a traditional massage. Day 8 Kompong cham Enjoy
the fusion of the frontier charm and French-colonial character of
Kompong Cham. Stroll the streets to admire the faded European
architecture or hire a bike to explore rustic surrounds. Days 9-11
Siem Reap/Angkor Wat Don’t miss the extraordinary temples
of Angkor - they’re just a short remork ride away. Perhaps also
consider a trip to the floating villages of Tonle Sap or peruse Siem
Reap’s markets for a trinket or two. Days 12-13 Bangkok Arrive
in Bangkok to be welcomed by exotic markets, weaving tuk-tuks,
slow-going longtail boats and serene temples. Shop up a storm or
savour the flavours of Thai cuisine.
iTiNERARy... Days 1-2 Phnom Penh This Cambodian
adventure begins in the capital. Pay respects to lives lost at the
chilling Tuol Sleng Museum and the infamous Killing Fields, before
taking time to discover a more glorious era amid the treasures
of the National Museum. Days 3-4 Battambang The myriad of
crumbling French-colonial shopfronts along the riverfront lend a
certain elegance to Battambang’s facade. Make a sobering visit
to Phnom Sampeau and stop off at the temples of Wat Banan.
Days 5-7 Siem Reap/Angkor Wat Rise early to see a spectacular
sunrise over Angkor Wat and enjoy a day of temple-hopping. The
structures of Angkor are an amazing archaeological sight and are
sure to captivate. Day 8 Kompong cham Experience the serenity
of small-town Cambodia in Kompong Cham before getting up
close to the locals and rural life on a bicycle ride around a nearby
island. Days 9-10 Kampot Renowned for its pungent durian
fruit, riverside Kampot is a wonderful place to relax. Venture into
the countryside for a tour through salt flats, rice fields, pepper
plantations and the famous Phnom Chhnork caves. Stop by villages
along the way to meet the locals and witness their daily lives.
Days 11-13 Sihanoukville Settle in for some beachside bliss on
Cambodia’s southern coast. Take a boat out to a nearby island to
relax among swaying palms, white sands and clear, blue waters.
Days 14-15 Phnom Penh Go in search of shade and some silver
jewellery at the bustling Russian Market or see if the blue flag is
flying outside the impressive Royal Palace - it’s a sign the king is in.
13 days, Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok
15 days, ex Phnom Penh
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
orIgInalTRiP cODE TKSM
BasIxTRiP cODE TKRS
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
Free time in HCMC?
Jump into a cyclo to explore this city’s busy streets and markets on Urban Adventure’s Cyclos & Markets tour.
Start Finish201101 Jan 13 Jan08 Jan 20 Jan15 Jan 27 Jan22 Jan 03 Feb29 Jan 10 Feb05 Feb 17 Feb19 Feb 03 Mar26 Feb 10 Mar12 Mar 24 Mar26 Mar 07 Apr
09 Apr 21 Apr16 Apr 28 Apr23 Apr 05 May14 May 26 May11 Jun 23 Jun25 Jun 07 Jul09 Jul 21 Jul23 Jul 04 Aug06 Aug 18 Aug20 Aug 01 Sep03 Sep 15 Sep17 Sep 29 Sep
01 Oct 13 Oct15 Oct 27 Oct29 Oct 10 Nov12 Nov 24 Nov26 Nov 08 Dec10 Dec 22 Dec24 Dec 05 Jan201207 Jan 19 Jan14 Jan 26 Jan21 Jan 02 Feb28 Jan 09 Feb
04 Feb 16 Feb18 Feb 01 Mar03 Mar 15 Mar17 Mar 29 Mar31 Mar 12 Apr14 Apr 26 Apr28 Apr 10 May12 May 24 May26 May 07 Jun09 Jun 21 Jun23 Jun 05 Jul
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
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Bask in the serene • beauty of the Royal Palace
Reflect on cambodia’s • tragedy at Tuol Sleng
Explore the incredible • beauty of Angkor Wat
Discover hindu epics • and cambodian myths
capture the perfect • picture of the temples of Angkor at sunset
Wander among the • vine-covered ruins of Ta Prohm
Tap into the action in • brilliant Bangkok
Remember the past in • Phnom Penh
Travel down the • Mekong to chau Doc
Soak up frenetic vibes • of ho chi Minh city
Temple at the Royal Palace, Phnom Penh, Cambodia - Martin Roeder
Photo Competition, Group shot at steps, Angkor Wat, Cambodia - Brian Hallgreen
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (5 nts) TRANSPORT Plane, bus GROuP SiZE Max 12 MEALS 5 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Mon GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 236 kg pp per trip NOTES 1. Arrival airport to hotel transfers included. Please provide flight details at time of booking. 2. A single supplement is available on this trip. TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.89 out of 5
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (8 nts) TRANSPORT Private bus, boat GROuP SiZE Max 12 MEALS 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Tue, Sat & selected Thu GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 91 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.81 out of 5
Classic Cambodia
Angkor Trails
iTiNERARy... Days 1-2 Phnom Penh Cambodia’s capital is
a friendly riverside city with loads of Khmer charm and faded
French-colonial elegance. Confront this country’s tragic past on a
visit to the Tuol Sleng Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung
Ek. Discover brighter times while wandering through the serene
Royal Palace with its spectacular Silver Pagoda. In free time, delve
deeper into Khmer history at the National Museum, hunt for silver
and local crafts in the Russian Market or take a sunset stroll along
Sisowath Quay. Indulging in a strong coffee is a Phnom Penh
experience not to be missed - the caffeine hit should certainly fuel
some independent explorations. Days 3-6 Siem Reap/Angkor
Wat Fly to Siem Reap, gateway to one of the world’s most amazing
archaeological sites. Built between the 9th and 13th centuries when
the Khmer Empire was the pre-eminent influence in South-East
Asia, the temples at Angkor were believed to represent the cosmic
world and were set in perfect balance, symmetry and composition.
Enjoy a guided introduction to the history and mythology of
the ruins of Angkor Wat, the Bayon and the jungle-covered Ta
Prohm. Hindu epics come to life in the sandstone bas-reliefs of
Angkor Wat and the intricate architecture affords spectacular
photo opportunities. Perhaps ease away any temple-fatigue with
a massage back in town or travel further afield to visit Banteay Srei,
with the most detailed carvings of all the temples. End this classic
adventure by tucking into a sumptuous feast of delicious Khmer
cuisine in one of Siem Reap’s restaurants.
iTiNERARy... Day 1 Bangkok Thailand’s cosmopolitan capital
pulses with energy. Tap into the buzz by taking a tuk-tuk through
the crowded streets and strolling one of the city’s many markets or
shopping centres. Perhaps drop by the Ratchadamnoen Stadium
for an electrifying Thai boxing match. Days 2-4 Siem Reap/
Angkor Wat The road to Cambodia leads to the former kingdom
of the Khmers. Experience the extravagant beauty of the Angkor
temples from dawn to dusk and learn the symbolism behind the
exquisite bas-reliefs from a knowledgeable guide. These beautiful,
crumbling structures are sure to amaze. Days 5-6 Phnom Penh
Recall the chilling events of Cambodia’s past at S-21, the notorious
Khmer concentration camp, and Choeung Ek, the site of the
infamous Killing Fields. The Silver Pagoda and Royal Palace reveal
a lighter side of history and the Russian Market is a good place to
pick up a traditional krama. Day 7 chau Doc Feel the wind whip
past while travelling down the mighty Mekong in a speedboat and
crossing into Vietnam along the way. Witness the floating houses of
Chau Doc, watch fishermen ply their trade and maybe even travel
to Sam Mountain to admire a dramatic sunset over the Vietnam
and Cambodia border. Days 8-9 ho chi Minh city It’s on to
frenetic streets, overflowing markets and the boisterous calls of
vendors in lively Ho Chi Minh City. Hunt for bargains in the bustling
Ben Thanh Market or discover the French presence that lingers
in the form of colonial buildings, great coffee and freshly baked
baguettes all over the city.
6 days, Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
9 days, Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City
Departs every Monday
Departs every Tuesday & Saturday
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
Travel in reverse...
Want to start this adventure in Ho Chi Minh City? See trip code TKSE for the same itinerary westbound.
orIgInalTRiP cODE TKSD
ComfortTRiP cODE TKKS
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
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Take a remork to • the Angkor temples
Delve into Khmer • history in Phnom Penh
chill in Sihanoukville•
Stroll along the • elaborate Elephant Terrace
Learn about the • mysterious Leper King
Be awed by the steep • steps of Angkor Wat
Marvel at the • intricate bas-reliefs of Banteay Srei
Wander the crumbling • ruins of Ta Prohm
Visit a floating • house on Tonle Sap
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
Mini lanterns in the garden, Vietnam
Photo Competition, Bayon, Siem Reap, Cambodia - Serena Molloy
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (11 nts), homestay (1 nt) TRANSPORT Bus GROuP SiZE Max 16 MEALS 4 Breakfasts, 1 Dinner BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Every Tue & selected Fri GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 111 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.77 out of 5
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (3 nts) TRANSPORT Private vehicle, boat MEALS 3 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Daily, subject to availability cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 40 kg pp per trip NOTES Roundtrip airport to hotel transfers included. Please see Trip Notes (Joining Instructions) for more details TRAVELLER RATiNG 5.00 out of 5
Cambodia Adventure
Angkor Explorer
iTiNERARy... Day 1 Bangkok Shop up a storm, enjoy a soothing
massage or savour the many flavours of Thai cuisine. Days 2-4
Siem Reap/Angkor Wat Don’t miss the extraordinary temples
of Angkor - they’re just a short remork ride away. Perhaps also
consider a trip to Tonle Sap Lake or just chill out at a hammock bar
in town with a refreshing drink. Day 5 Kompong cham Enjoy
the fusion of frontier charm and French-colonial character. Stroll
the streets to admire the faded European architecture or hire a
bike to explore rustic surrounds. Perhaps head a little further afield
to learn the legends of the nearby mountain temples. Day 6
Phnom Penh Arrive in the capital and if time permits make tracks
to the glimmering Silver Pagoda or haggle for a bargain at the
Art Deco-designed central market, Psar Thmei. Day 7 homestay
Travel into the Cambodian countryside to a village homestay.
Staying with a friendly local family, this is a unique opportunity to
experience everyday rural life and to enjoy a home-cooked meal.
Days 8-10 Sihanoukville Find a spot on the secluded beaches
that fringe Sihanoukville or take a boat trip out to nearby idyllic
islands. If mangrove forests, monkeys and exotic birds appeal,
visit the Ream National Park for a tropical safari. Day 11 Phnom
Penh Find graphic reminders of the country’s tragic history in
the bone-chilling Tuol Sleng Museum, filled with black and white
photographs of Pol Pot’s prisoners. Days 12-13 ho chi Minh
city The adventure comes to an end amid swarms of motorbikes
and street stalls in Ho Chi Minh City.
iTiNERARy... Day 1 Siem Reap/Angkor Wat Just a short
distance from the temples of Angkor, the town of Siem Reap is
a perfect base for this Khmer experience. Start the adventure at
the south gate of Angkor Thom - its stone-carved heads provide
a fitting introduction to the spectacular temples within. Enter into
the heart of Angkor Thom to see the smiling faces of the Bayon,
admire the intricately carved Terrace of the Leper King and stroll
the Elephant Terrace. Later, travel to the most famous temple
complex of them all - Angkor Wat. With its soaring towers and
extraordinary bas-reliefs, Angkor Wat is considered by many to be
one of the most inspired and spectacular monuments ever built.
Surrounded by a huge glistening moat, this temple is a truly awe-
inspiring sight. Days 2-3 Banteay Srei/Ta Prohm Start the day
by watching an unforgettable sunrise over Angkor Wat. Then, travel
through rural countryside to the pink sandstone temple of Banteay
Srei, a small but exquisitely carved structure. Visit the atmospheric
Ta Prohm, whose crumbling edifices have been left to the ravages
of the jungle. Later, take a boat cruise over Tonle Sap and stop by
a floating fishing house to see how locals live. Enjoy a guided tour
of the three pre-Angkorian temples of the Roluos group - Bakong,
Preah Ko and Lolei. Their construction marked the beginning of a
brilliant Khmer age. Day 4 Siem Reap Back in bustling Siem Reap
there’s time to buy Cambodian handicrafts, discover the many
delights of the town’s centre or enjoy a final taste of spicy Khmer
cuisine accompanied by a cold beer.
13 days, Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City
4 days, ex Siem Reap
Departs every Tuesday
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
BasIxTRiP cODE TKRR
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
TRiP cODE TKAA sHort BrEaK
Group travel was a first for me, but I can’t wait to do it again! I loved having the hassle taken out of travelling and just being able to enjoy the countries I am visiting.
Jane Milton, United Kingdom Travelled on the TKRR
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
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Explore Phnom Penh • by land and water
Shop for silver at the • Russian Market
Try tasty Khmer treats•
Step into history at the • Genocide Museum
Visit the chilling • Killing Fields
Mingle with the • devout in temples
See the point where • three rivers merge
Explore the majestic • temples of Angkor
Get an insight into • cambodian rural life
Taste Khmer treats•
Travel by remork•
See floating villages • on Tonle Sap
Photo Competition, Strolling monks, Phnom Penh, Cambodia - Haydn Thomas
Home on the water, Tonle Sap, Cambodia
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (1 nt) TRANSPORT Air-conditioned minivan or car, local boat, cyclo, remork MEALS 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Daily GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 55 kg pp per trip NOTES Pick up and drop off from your centrally located Phnom Penh hotel. Please provide hotel details at the time of booking. TRAVELLER RATiNG 5.00 out of 5
AccOMMODATiON Hotel (2 nts) TRANSPORT Air-conditioned minivan or car, local boat, remork MEALS 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Daily GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 83 kg pp per trip NOTES Meeting point for this Short Break is the Intrepid Cambodia office. See Trip Notes (Important Notes for more details). TRAVELLER RATiNG 5.00 out of 5
Explore Phnom Penh
Secrets of Angkor
iTiNERARy... Day 1 Arrive Phnom Penh Start at Wat Phnom,
an ancient monastery where there’s a chance to spot monkeys,
and feed Sambo the elephant. Afterwards take a cyclo tour of the
impressive French-colonial buildings of Phnom Penh including the
Royal Palace and National Museum. Wander around Wat Ounalom
and explore Central Market. If there’s time, head to the Muslim
fishing village on Tonle Sap. Enjoy a lunch of Khmer delicacies
at a not-for-profit organisation set up to assist Cambodia’s street
children and see students learning traditional dances at the
Apsara Arts Association. Shop for silver at the sprawling Russian
Market and hear about Cambodia’s connection with France and
Vietnam at the Independence Monument. Finish with a walk
along the riverfront and have tastebuds tempted at some of the
early evening market stalls selling fried cockroaches, spiders,
crickets and other culinary delights. Day 2 Depart Phnom Penh
Confront Cambodia's tragic past on a guided tour of the Tuol Sleng
Genocide Museum, then head out of the city to the Killing Fields
of Choeung Ek. In the afternoon, explore Phnom Penh from the
water on a cruise and view Khmer-influenced buildings such as
Wat Ounalom, the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. Pass floating
fishing villages, stop off at Mekong Island to see silk weavers at
work and explore a Buddhist temple. Finish by enjoying Khmer
snacks while watching sunset at the junction of Tonle Bassac, Tonle
Sap and the mighty Mekong River, before returning to the hustle
and bustle of Phnom Penh.
iTiNERARy... Day 1 Siem Reap/Angkor Wat Explore the
temples of Angkor, beginning with Angkor Wat - easily the most
famous of the temples. Move on to Angkor Thom to see the Bayon
with its 216 smiling stone faces. Stop for pictures at the photogenic
South Gate before lunching Khmer-style in a local restaurant in
the jungle. After lunch, visit the beautiful Ta Prohm temple, made
famous by the Tomb Raider film. If time permits, finish the day
climbing one of the oldest buildings in the Angkor complex, the
brick temple of Pre Rup. Day 2 Siem Reap/Banteay Srei Take
a trip through the countryside to the small village of Kbal Spean
and see rural Cambodian life in action. Embark on an easy jungle
trek to the River of a Thousand Lingas. See Hindu sculptures carved
into the river’s granite banks more than a thousand years ago. Next
up is the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity, home to
various animals that have been saved from trafficking including
gibbons, anteaters and the bright-eyed lorus. After enjoying a tasty
Khmer lunch, head to the temple of Banteay Srei and perhaps
explore the former monastic complex of Banteay Kdei to enjoy
sunset at the picturesque reservoir of Srah Srang. Day 3 Siem
Reap/Tonle Sap Explore Siem Reap by remork before heading
out of town to Tonle Sap lake. Take a boat trip around the lake to
see floating villages and get a taste for life ruled by monsoonal rains
and water-based agriculture. Take the back roads on your return
to town, stopping at a local village to pick up Khmer snacks and
paying a visit to a modern Buddhist monastery.
2 days, ex Phnom Penh
3 days, ex Siem Reap
Departs daily
Departs daily
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
Exploring further?
Travel south and uncover hidden gems in the capital on Urban Adventure’s Phnom Penh Discovery.
TRiP cODE TKAP
TRiP cODE TKAS
sHort BrEaK
sHort BrEaK
Additional information about this destination is available at intrepidtravel.com
70
Ind
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cruise down Bangkok’s • khlongs on a longtail boat
Bargain up a storm in • chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar
Relax on a slow boat • down the Mekong
Take a dip beneath • Kuang Si Falls
Soak up culture in • French-inspired streets of Vientiane
See a water-puppet • show in hanoi
Explore the hidden • treasures of Luang Prabang
Discover the charm • of chiang Mai
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
Photo Competition, Colourful parasols, Thailand - Deb Oliver
Photo Competition, Mekong local, Laos - Jon Leibwitz
AccOMMODATiON Hotel/guesthouse (13 nts), overnight train (1 nt) TRANSPORT Overnight train, boat, longtail boat, bus, taxi, songthaew, tuk-tuk GROuP SiZE Max 12 MEALS 1 Breakfast BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Sun GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 152 kg pp per trip NOTES A single supplement is available on this trip TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.77 out of 5
AccOMMODATiON Hotel/guesthouse (12 nts), basic guesthouse (1 nt) TRANSPORT Bus, van, boat GROuP SiZE Max 16 MEALS No meals included BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Sun GuARANTEE Departure guaranteed cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 119 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.71 out of 5
Bangkok to Hanoi
Laos Discovery
iTiNERARy... Days 1-2 Bangkok A longtail boat ride along the
city’s khlongs reveals why Bangkok was once known as the ‘Venice
of the East’. Witness the enormous reclining Buddha at Wat Pho.
In free time, why not indulge in a relaxing Thai massage? Day 3
chiang Mai Discover sweeping city views from the temple atop
Doi Suthep. Make like a local and slurp down a bowl of kao soi
noodles at the Night Bazaar. Day 4 chiang Khong Travel through
rural Thailand to the Laos border. Catch a first glimpse of the
mighty Mekong and mingle with Mien and White H’mong villagers.
Day 5 Mekong River Take a slow boat down the Mekong,
soaking up the laidback river lifestyle of Laos. Stay overnight in
tranquil Pak Beng. Days 6-8 Luang Prabang See hundreds
of Buddhas in the limestone cliffs at the Pak Ou Caves before
arriving in Luang Prabang. Enjoy the quaint colonial atmosphere,
delve into local history at the Royal Palace Museum and swim in
the turquoise waters of nearby Kuang Si Falls. Days 9-11 Vang
Vieng/Vientiane Call in to the backpacker hangout of Vang
Vieng and admire the stunning limestone karst scenery, or wander
through the local market. Explore laidback Vientiane and head to
the riverbank to savour a Mekong sunset with a cold Beerlao in
hand. Day 12 Lak Sao Revel in a striking montage of mountain,
forest and karst scenery en route to Lak Sao. Days 13-15 hanoi
Browse the Old Quarter for traditional artefacts and gastronomic
delights, marvel at the spectacle of a traditional water-puppet show
or explore the winding backstreets of Hanoi by cyclo.
iTiNERARy... Day 1 hanoi Shaded boulevards, public parks and
blocks of ochre buildings are telling reminders of a French-colonial
past, but Hanoi hums with the bustle of a modern city. Get out and
explore during free time in this dynamic capital. Day 2 Vinh Spend
a night in the border town of Vinh, checking out the market for
fresh Vietnamese dinner options. Days 3-4 Vientiane Slow down
to the pace of sleepy Vientiane, where the colourful market stays
open all day and dusty riverside paths are packed with friendly
children, dogs and chickens. A great way to round off a day of
sightseeing is by dining at one of the many stilt restaurants set up
high above the Mekong. Days 5-7 Vang Vieng Be wowed by the
gorgeous setting of Vang Vieng, surrounded by stunning limestone
karst mountains. Relax in a chilled-out cafe or dive into the river to
escape the heat. Days 8-10 Luang Prabang The jewel in Laos’
crown, Luang Prabang is bursting at the seams with temples and
French-colonial architecture. Rise early to watch monks receiving
alms, hop onto a jumbo to visit the gorgeous Kuang Si Falls or
climb to the top of Phu Si at sunset for magical views over the
town. Days 11-12 Mekong River Float gently down the Mekong
on a riverboat journey, travelling with local passengers and docking
at tiny Pak Beng for the night. Days 13-14 chiang Mai Home to
over 300 temples and a massive night market, Thailand’s Chiang
Mai has plenty to see and do. Indulge in a traditional massage,
haggle for a bargain in the bazaar, take a lesson at a local cooking
school or perhaps learn the secrets of Thai kickboxing.
15 days, Bangkok to Hanoi
14 days, Hanoi to Chiang Mai
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
BasIxTRiP cODE TLRK
orIgInalTRiP cODE TLSV
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
DEPARTUREGUARANTEED
Start Finish201102 Jan 16 Jan09 Jan 23 Jan16 Jan 30 Jan23 Jan 06 Feb30 Jan 13 Feb06 Feb 20 Feb13 Feb 27 Feb20 Feb 06 Mar27 Feb 13 Mar06 Mar 20 Mar13 Mar 27 Mar20 Mar 03 Apr
27 Mar 10 Apr03 Apr 17 Apr17 Apr 01 May01 May 15 May15 May 29 May05 Jun 19 Jun19 Jun 03 Jul10 Jul 24 Jul24 Jul 07 Aug07 Aug 21 Aug21 Aug 04 Sep04 Sep 18 Sep18 Sep 02 Oct02 Oct 16 Oct
16 Oct 30 Oct30 Oct 13 Nov13 Nov 27 Nov20 Nov 04 Dec27 Nov 11 Dec11 Dec 25 Dec18 Dec 01 Jan25 Dec 08 Jan201201 Jan 15 Jan08 Jan 22 Jan15 Jan 29 Jan22 Jan 05 Feb29 Jan 12 Feb
05 Feb 19 Feb12 Feb 26 Feb19 Feb 04 Mar26 Feb 11 Mar04 Mar 18 Mar11 Mar 25 Mar18 Mar 01 Apr25 Mar 08 Apr15 Apr 29 Apr29 Apr 13 May13 May 27 May27 May 10 Jun10 Jun 24 Jun24 Jun 08 Jul
This was a fantastic trip with so many wonderful experiences. Highlights were tubing in Vang Vieng and visiting the temples and markets of Luang Prabang.
David Fowler, Australia Travelled on the TLRK
Start Finish201102 Jan 15 Jan09 Jan 22 Jan16 Jan 29 Jan23 Jan 05 Feb27 Jan 12 Feb30 Jan 12 Feb06 Feb 19 Feb13 Feb 26 Feb20 Feb 05 Mar27 Feb 12 Mar06 Mar 19 Mar13 Mar 26 Mar20 Mar 02 Apr
27 Mar 09 Apr03 Apr 16 Apr17 Apr 30 Apr01 May 14 May08 May 21 May22 May 04 Jun05 Jun 18 Jun19 Jun 02 Jul03 Jul 16 Jul17 Jul 30 Jul31 Jul 13 Aug14 Aug 27 Aug28 Aug 10 Sep11 Sep 24 Sep25 Sep 08 Oct
02 Oct 15 Oct16 Oct 29 Oct30 Oct 12 Nov13 Nov 26 Nov20 Nov 03 Dec27 Nov 10 Dec11 Dec 24 Dec18 Dec 31 Dec25 Dec 07 Jan201201 Jan 14 Jan08 Jan 21 Jan15 Jan 28 Jan22 Jan 04 Feb29 Jan 11 Feb
05 Feb 18 Feb12 Feb 25 Feb19 Feb 03 Mar26 Feb 10 Mar04 Mar 17 Mar11 Mar 24 Mar18 Mar 31 Mar25 Mar 07 Apr08 Apr 21 Apr22 Apr 05 May06 May 19 May20 May 02 Jun03 Jun 16 Jun17 Jun 30 Jun
For trip notes, availability and more, enter the trip code at intrepidtravel.com
71
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Sample tasty treats • in Kunming
hike through diverse • chinese hilltribes
Admire the karst • scenery in Vang Vieng
Discover the buzz of • urban Bangkok
Take a private tour • of Vientiane
Explore the culture • and cuisine of Luang Prabang
Travel along the • Mekong River
Marvel at treasures • in the Royal Palace Museum
See thousands of • Buddha images at Pak Ou caves
Experience the charm • of slow-paced Laos
Giving alms, Laos - Sally Johnson
Photo Competition, Local woman displaying her work, Laos - Mike Wedgewood
AccOMMODATiON Basic hotel (4 nts), guesthouse (7 nts), multishare homestay (2 nts), overnight train (1 nt) TRANSPORT Plane, overnight train, minibus, local bus, songthaew, tuk-tuk GROuP SiZE Max 12 MEALS 2 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Selected Mon GuARANTEE Subject to min 4 cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 416 kg pp per trip TRAVELLER RATiNG Not applicable as this is a new itinerary
AccOMMODATiON Hotel/guesthouse (4 nts) TRANSPORT Plane, minibus, riverboat MEALS 4 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch BuDGET See trip notes for additional costs of meals not included, optional activities & personal spending DEPARTS Daily, subject to availability cARBON EMiSSiONS OFFSET 123 kg pp per trip NOTES Roundtrip airport to hotel transfers are included. Please see Trip Notes (Joining Instructions) for more details. TRAVELLER RATiNG 4.70 out of 5
Start Finish201127 Jun 11 Jul18 Jul 01 Aug
15 Aug 29 Aug19 Sep 03 Oct17 Oct 31 Oct21 Nov 05 Dec
19 Dec 02 Jan201216 Jan 30 Jan20 Feb 05 Mar
19 Mar 02 Apr15 Apr 29 Apr21 May 04 Jun
China & Laos Adventure
Classic Laos
iTiNERARy... Day 1 Kunming This is the ‘City of Eternal Spring’,
so enjoy the cooler weather and the tasty Yunnanese food. Day 2
Jinghong Fly to Jinghong and spend the afternoon exploring the
jade markets, swimming in the Mekong or perhaps cycling through
the minority villages on the outskirts of town. Days 3-4 Village
Trek Walk through hilltribe villages and spend a memorable
night in a traditional Bulang house on a homestay as a privileged
guest. Day 5 Jinghong Trek through dramatic countryside to
the village of Bada, perhaps stopping to cool off under a waterfall,
before heading back to Jinghong. Days 6-7 Luang Nam Tha
Arrive in Laos to discover rice paddies and ethnically diverse
villages surrounding Luang Nam Tha. Relax and take in daily life or
jump on a bike and explore the countryside. Days 8-10 Luang
Prabang Set high in the hills of northern Laos at the point where
the Mekong and Khan rivers meet, Luang Prabang is studded with
ornate temples and French-colonial architecture. Take a walk to get
acquainted with the city’s atmosphere. Days 11-12 Vang Vieng
Admire the surrounding limestone karst scenery and perhaps
discover the numerous caves dotting the town’s surrounding
hills. Days 13-14 Vientiane Visit Laos’ most important national
monument, Pha That Luang, or meander down dusty riverside
tracks to find tiny villages and some of the friendliest locals around.
Day 15 Bangkok Conclude the adventure amid the bright lights
of Bangkok. Stay on to make the most of this vibrant city, or head
north or south to explore Thailand in more detail.
iTiNERARy... Day 1 Vientiane The fascinating capital of Laos
possesses a tropical Asian vibe laced with faded French-colonial
charm. Weathered mansions, tree-lined boulevards and old
temples impart an atmosphere of timelessness along the Mekong
River. Take a private tour to see the thousands of Buddha images at
Wat Si Saket and visit Pha That Luang, a symbol of Lao sovereignty.
Day 2 Luang Prabang Once the heart and soul of the ancient
Lao kingdom, Luang Prabang is now a World Heritage-listed site.
Visit the Royal Palace Museum, an eclectic blend of French and
Lao architecture where the royal family’s quarters have remained
untouched since 1975. See a collection of rare Buddha images
made from crystal and gold on display here as well as rare articles
of royal regalia including the king’s own elephant saddle. Later,
climb 328 steps to the Phu Si Temple - topped with a glittering
golden stupa - and be rewarded with panoramic views of Luang
Prabang. Day 3 Pak Ou caves Take a boat trip along the Mekong
to the Pak Ou Caves, two sacred limestone caves filled with
Buddha images of all styles and sizes. Each year devoted pilgrims
and villagers bring more treasures to the caves. Stop in at the
silk-weaving village of Ban Phanom on return to Luang Prabang.
Cap off the day with a drink on the veranda of the Villa Santi Hotel.
Days 4-5 Luang Prabang Watch lines of saffron-robed Buddhist
monks walk the narrow streets to receive alms from the faithful.
Visit Wat Xieng Thong, Luang Prabang’s most magnificent temple
or wander the banks of the Mekong.
15 days, Kunming to Bangkok
5 days, Vientiane to Luang Prabang
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
PhySicAL
cuLTuRAL
Island getaway...
Head to the sandy shores of Ko Samui for the ultimate beach break. See trip code TABC for more details.
BasIxTRiP cODE TLRB
orIgInalTRiP cODE TLAB sHort BrEaK
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