Treasures of Southeast Asia

Elegant pavilions and ornamental ponds await during a visit to Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, a summer residence for the kings of Thailand. Continue to Ayutthaya to marvel at the magnificent ruins and artifacts of Thailand’s ancient capital, with a history spanning more than four centuries! On your return to Bangkok, take a leisurely cruise along the Chao Phraya River once again to watch daily river life unfold while enjoying lunch.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and set out for a day of your own adventures! Choose to relax at the hotel’s luxurious pool overlooking the Chao Phraya River, or perhaps spend the evening exploring local restaurants and shops along the riverside.

This morning, fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Arrive, transfer to the hotel, check in to the hotel and enjoy lunch before beginning a tuk-tuk tour of this dynamic city known for its kind locals. Admire the French Colonial architecture and experience the city’s cultural scene while watching demonstrations by local artisans at an arts and dance center. Back at the hotel, a local expert shares highlights of the spectacular Temples of Angkor that you will see tomorrow.

Today, you’ll discover the breathtaking ancient temple of Angkor Wat, the 12th-century crown jewel of the Angkor Archeological Park. Immerse yourself in a long-forgotten world as you marvel at the symbolic, intricately carved apsaras and a gallery of bas-relief murals. Later, test your culinary skills while making rice noodles with a local family. This evening, ride a tuk-tuk to delight in an acrobatic Cambodian circus featuring captivating choreography, hypnotic color, folk music and Cambodian stories.

Journey deeper into history at the ancient walled city of Angkor Thom to witness the imposing Bayon Temple’s 54 towers and marvelous carvings of 200 smiling faces. Then, be awed by the jungle-claimed paths and temples of Ta Prohm, overtaken by massive kapok tree roots, and admire exquisite Apsara carvings at Thommanon, a notable example of grand Khmer temple architecture. This evening, board your flight to Hanoi. Arrive and transfer to your hotel for check-in.

Explore the historic heart of Vietnam in Hanoi, beginning with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to pay respects at his monumental tomb and view his peaceful residence by a lotus pond. Stroll through the tree-lined streets to admire French colonial architecture, evident in the Hanoi Opera House and the Temple of Literature. Conclude with an exclusive tour of Hỏa Ló Prison, followed by a superb Vietnamese lunch.

Venture into the tranquil countryside on a half-day excursion to a traditional, centuries-old Vietnamese village. Admire scenic landscapes dotted with mountains and rice paddies while gaining insight into rural life and local customs. Then, savor a delicious lunch featuring authentic flavors before returning to the hotel for an evening at leisure.

This morning, check out of the hotel and set out for a panoramic drive toward Ha Long Bay, where you will board your ship. Get to know your ship’s amenities while sailing through the spectacular emerald waters. Enjoy lunch on board as you begin your journey through the remarkable seascape comprised of limestone karsts surrounded by a pristine archipelago along the coast. Spend the afternoon uncovering the unique and magical landscapes of scattered islands, then dine on Vietnamese cuisine during dinner on board before the ship anchors overnight in a secluded cove.

Join your fellow travelers for breakfast on the ship as you sail toward the pristine waters of Bai Tu Long Bay. Cruise to the outer reaches and uncover secluded lagoons, hidden corners and mystical caves with their impressive collection of stalactites and stalagmites. This evening, bid farewell to your ship during a special Farewell Dinner on board.

After breakfast, disembark the ship and proceed to Yen Duc, a rural farming village in the Vietnamese countryside. Savor a homemade lunch before admiring a private water puppetry performance, an ancient art form that offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural history and traditions. After the performance, relax on a panoramic drive back to Hanoi, where you’ll check in to your hotel for the evening.