YOUR ITINERARY

Day 1: Depart USA. Your exotic journey to Vietnam and Cambodia begins as you depart on your wide-body jet flight bound for Asia.

DAY 2: Arrive Phnom Penh (Cambodia). Evening arrival in Phnom Penh, the bustling capital of Cambodia. You 'll be greeted at the airport and escorted to your upscale, conveniently located hotel. Intercontinental Hotel.

DAY 3: Today embark on an included tour to some of Phnom Penh's most outstanding sights. Visit Wat Phnom, the birthplace of the capital, the elegant National Museum and the Royal Palace with its adjacent Silver Pagoda where you'll view the spectacular Emerald Buddha. This afternoon learn about Cambodia's more recent, tragic past at the Museum of Genocide. Finally, explore the modern-day city at the bustling Central Market, located in a distinctive domed Art Deco building. This evening your tour director hosts a welcome dinner. (B,D)

DAY 4: Phnom Penh/Siem Reap. This morning travel to Siem Reap, gateway to the world famous temples of Angkor Wat, among the "Seven Wonders of the World". Built by the Khmer kings, the ancient rulers of Cambodia, the exquisitely carved temples are an architectural masterpiece. Afternoon sightseeing of the temples of Angkor, including Angkor Thom and the Southern Gate of Bayon. At sunset, visit the upper terraces of an ancient temple for spectacular views. Royal Angkor Hotel. (B)

DAY 5: This morning, travel to Kampong Kleang where you'll enjoy a relaxing boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake. Visit the fascinating floating fishing villages and view submerged forests and fishing farms. Later return to Siem Reap to further explore with a local expert the "Angkor Conservation Complex". The crowning jewel of Khmer architecture, Angkor Wat is the national symbol and the highlight of any visit to Cambodia. The largest, best preserved, and most religiously significant of the Angkor temples, Angkor impresses visitors both by its sheer scale and beautifully proportioned layout, as well as the delicate artistry of its carvings. To approach the temple, you'll first cross the vast moat, continuing along a broad causeway lined with naga balustrades. As you enter the main building, you'll ascend through a series of galleries and courtyard before reaching the central sanctuary, which offers beautiful views back over the causeway and across the surrounding countryside. On the way, stop to enjoy the intricate stonecarvings that adorn nearly every surface, with some 1,700 Apsaras, or celestial dancers, sculpted into the walls. Along the outer gallery walls run the longest continuous bas-relief in the world, which narrates stories from Hindu mythology, including the famous Churning of the Ocean of Milk. You'll also visit Preah Khan, a temple built by King Jayavarman VII with towered enclosures and shoulder-hugging corridors in a jungle setting. Tonight, savor a special dinner and a colorful cultural performance. (B,D)

DAY 6: Siem Reap/Saigon ( Vietnam). Start your day with a visit to a workshop where local artists demonstrate the art of stone carving and wood ornamental sculpture. Later visit Banteay Srei Temple, seemingly small in comparison to the other Angkor temples, it is considered to be the jewel of classical Khmer art. Built in pink sandstone, the walls are covered in exquisitely preserved carvings of unusual delicacy. Because of its small size, fairy-like atmosphere and extraordinary examples of Khmer sculpture, this temple is often a favorite with visitors. Later, transfer to the airport for a short flight to Vietnam. Arrive in Saigon, now called Ho Chi Minh City. StarCity Hotel (B,L)

DAY 7: Mekong Delta Excursion. Today's embark on a full-day excursion from Saigon to My Tho, one of the most beautiful areas of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam's most fertile agricultural center. A boat trip takes you along narrow canals, passing rice fields and lush orchards, offering a unique insight into local village life. Visit local markets before returning to Saigon late this afternoon. (B,L)



Day 8: Saigon/Hoi An. Journey this morning outside Saigon to see one of the remnants of the Vietnam War, the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, which used to serve the former Communist Guerrillas. Return to Saigon and visit the major sights of this vibrant city. See the Notre Dame Cathedral, the former US Embassy, Cholon, the buzzing Chinese quarter and the lively Ben Thanh Market, where an incredible array of goods is sold. Later, board a flight to Danang in central Vietnam. A short ride brings you to Hoi An, one of Vietnam's most delightful and enchanting towns. Hoi An Historic Hotel (B,L)

DAY 9: The ancient city of Hoi An retains much of its original charm and culture. Your guide will lead you on a walking tour of this historic port town and show you some of the centuries old houses. You'll also enjoy a Trishaw (Cyclo) ride and see the Japanese Bridge, gracefully curving over a tributary of the Thu Bon River. The afternoon is at leisure to explore on your own. (B)

DAY 10: Danang/Hue. As you depart Hoi An this morning, visit China Beach, the renowned war-time R&R resort and see the Marble Mountains, consisting of five stone jagged crests that represent the elements of nature. In Danang explore the Cham Museum, housing an exquisite collection of sandstone carvings and sculptures. Later, journey through some of Vietnam's most spectacular scenery as you traverse the Hai Van Pass and enjoy pristine coastline views en route to Hue, the former Imperial Capital of Vietnam. Enjoy dinner at your hotel. Mondial Hotel (B,L,D)

DAY 11: Today, visit the Imperial Citadel in Hue's old city, the Flag Tower, Ngo Mon Gate and the Forbidden Purple City, home to the Royal Family before 1945. After lunch, enjoy a scenic boat trip on the Perfume River and stop to visit the revered Thien Mu Pagoda, the most famous monument in Hue. A stop is also made at the colorful Dong Ba market with its wide array of local foods and products. (B)

DAY 12: Hue/Hanoi/Halong. This morning fly to Hanoi and journey by road through the lush countryside to Halong, a vast mysterious bay with majestic scenery. Free time this afternoon to relax at your hotel's pool and admire the precious views of the bay. Novotel Hotel (B,D)

DAY 13: Halong Bay Excursion/Hanoi. Halong Bay is widely considered as Vietnam's most spectacular natural attraction. It comprises over three thousand small jagged limestone islands rising out of the South China Sea. These dramatic formations are the backdrop of your exciting 4-hour boat trip, stopping to visit several island caves. You'll also enjoy a delicious seafood lunch. Later, drive back to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam and arrive at your deluxe hotel. Moevenpick Hotel. (B,L)

DAY 14: Hanoi's rich history is closely tied to French colonialism as well as the Chinese era, both evident in the city's architecture, cuisine and culture. On today's sightseeing tour, explore the highlights of this fascinating city. View the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and then visit the One Pillar Pagoda and the Temple of Literature. Proceed to scenic Hoan Kiem Lake and enjoy a guided walk through the narrow lanes of the historic old quarter. This evening savor a thrilling performance of the unique Water Puppets! (B)

DAY 15: Enjoy a morning at leisure to explore Hanoi at your pace. This afternoon savor an included cyclo ride to discover the many interesting sections of the old quarter and its sprawling markets where you may shop for unique souvenirs and sample delicious local food. You'll also visit the infamous former prison nick-named "Hanoi Hilton". Later, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner at a famous local restaurant. After dinner, transfer to the airport for your late night flight. (B,D)

DAY 16: Hanoi/Seoul/USA. An overnight flight to Seoul, Korea where you'll connect for your flight back home. Your exciting journey comes to an end as you touch down in the USA later today.

return to top

YOUR TOUR INCLUDES:

Tour prices now INCLUDE airfare taxes, fees & fuel surcharges

• Round-trip airfare from Los Angeles via scheduled Korean Air wide-body jet (New York JFK departure add $129)
  
• Airfare taxes, fees & fuel surcharges
  
• All intra-Asia flights and ground transportation
  
• Accommodations at deluxe and first class hotels with private bath
  
• 23 meals: 13 full American breakfasts (B), 5 lunches (L) and 5 dinners (D)
  
• Comprehensive sightseeing tours including admission fees
  
• English-speaking Tour Director and local guides
  

TOUR COST AIRFARE INCLUDED
DEPART	RETURN	RESERVE BY JUL 31, 2013		RESERVE AFTER JUL 31
2013		w/check discount	sale
Oct 7	Oct 22	$ 2899	$ 2999	$ 3299
Oct 14	Oct 29	$ 2899	$ 2999	$ 3299
Nov 4	Nov 19	$ 2999	$ 3099	$ 3399
Nov 11	Nov 26	$ 2999	$ 3099	$ 3399
Nov 18	Dec 3	$ 2999	$ 3099	$ 3399
Dec 26	Jan10 '14	$ 3199	$ 3299	$ 3599
2014
Jan 13	Jan 28	$ 2999	$ 3099	$ 3399
Jan 20	Feb 4	$ 2999	$ 3099	$ 3399
Feb 10	Feb 25	$ 2999	$ 3099	$ 3399
Mar 3	Mar 18	$ 2999	$ 3099	$ 3399
Rates are per person based on double occupancy. Single room supplement is $499. Add $129 if departing from New York JFK , subject to availability Vietnam & Cambodia visa fees are not included. Land only rates may be available. Please inquire. Note: Nov. 4, Nov. 11 and Nov. 18 tours include round-trip airfare from San Francisco. Reservations and Payments: Reservations can be made by phone 1 800 337 7773 and will be confirmed upon receipt of $300 per person non-refundable deposit (by check) which must be received within 7 days of reservation. Full payment is due 75 days prior to departure. Baggage fees may apply. Space and prices subject to availability. For complete booking information and terms & conditions click here.