Vietnam and Thailand Essential

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, commonly known as Saigon! Meet your guide at the airport and take our private transfer to your hotel for check-in and relaxation.

A perfect first-night experience in Saigon city would be a guided Vespas tour - like locals do every night, drive your motorbike through lively and hidden neighborhoods, enjoy joyful music in the warm breeze, and taste delicious Vietnamese street food.

Today it's a day trip to explore the great Mekong River with your guide. This morning, head to Ben Tre, a serene province in the Mekong Delta. After about 2 hours' journey you'll meet palm-lined rivers, vibrant market, and warm local hospitality.

Hop on a boat for a cruise along coconut-fringed waterways, then switch to a traditional rowboat to navigate peaceful canals shaded by lush palms. Step into a riverside village to see everyday life unfold, and you'll also have chance to ride a tuk-tuk. Visit a farmer’s home for fresh tropical juice, watch artisans handcraft brooms from coconut leaves, and taste sweet coconut candies made by local families.

Your day ends with a home-cooked lunch of authentic Vietnamese delta dishes, shared in a local family before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

Explore in-depth through a guided sightseeing tour of Ho Chi Minh City before your flight to Hanoi. The streets are lined with French colonial architecture and landmarks, which reflect Vietnam's complex history. You'll visit the War Remnants Museum for powerful exhibits on the Vietnam War, and discover the symbol of the country's reunification - Reunification Palace.

In Hanoi, take in the outside view of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an imposing structure that symbolizes the nation's respect for its founding leader. Nearby, explore Ho Chi Minh's House on Stilts, offering a glimpse into his personal life. A short walk leads to the One Pillar Pagoda, known for its unique design, followed by a visit to the Temple of Literature, a historic site that reflects Vietnam's rich cultural and academic traditions.

Next, the Museum of Ethnology provides insight into the diverse ethnic groups of Vietnam. Afterward, take a rickshaw ride through the lively Old Quarter, where narrow streets and bustling markets immerse you in the heart of local life. Relax by Hoan Kiem Lake, and wrap up your day with a traditional Water Puppet Show, a fun and immersive way to experience Vietnamese culture.

Travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its emerald waters and over 1,600 limestone islands. The drive to the port from Hanoi takes about 3 hours, afterward board your comfortable cruise for a 2-day journey through towering cliffs, hidden caves, and floating fishing villages.

Today start with Bangkok's iconic sights accompanied by your guide - the perfect way to get to know this amazing city. Step into the Grand Palace, a dazzling complex once home to Thai kings, and take in the majesty of the revered Emerald Buddha inside Wat Phra Kaew. Not far away, Wat Pho invites you to admire the golden Reclining Buddha. Then cross the Chao Phraya River to Wat Arun, famous for its 82-meter Khmer-style spire decorated with colorful porcelain.

As the night falls, when Chinatown becomes bustling, it's time for you to feast on delicacies! A guided food tour will take you through this foodie paradise lines with sizzling food stalls, tasting dishes from fresh dim sum to stir-fried noodles while soaking up the neon glow.

Today visit two famous markets around Bangkok with your guide. Leave Bangkok in the morning for the Train Market, where you'll witness a thrilling scene as vendors swiftly pull back awnings just seconds before a train glide through, seamlessly resuming their business moments later - a truly unforgettable experience.

Next, head to Thailand's most well-known water market - Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind scene: wooden boats piled high with tropical fruits, coconut desserts and handmade crafts. You can seat along the riverbank, just like locals, tasting exotic Thai street food while watching longtail boats weave through the waterways. Wander along the canals and capture some iconic photos of such colorful chaos before returning Bangkok.

Join in a half-day cooking class with a traditional Lanna family, who continue the traditions of many generations in building their homes of teak wood and preserving the natural surroundings in a way that is now rarely seen in Chiang Mai. Unlike typical cooking class, here you can handpick fresh spices and vegetables from the garden, learn authentic northern Thai recipes, and enjoy your homemade dishes with your warm hosts.

After the meal, drive through scenic mountain roads to Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai's most symbolic temple. Climb the 309 steps to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, where golden spires shimmer in the sunlight, and the breathtaking panoramic view of the city unfold below.

Being a perfect destination for intimate interactions with Asian elephants, Chiang Mai turns encounters into lifelong memories. Today you'll visit Baan Chang Elephant Park, a family-run sanctuary dedicated to the care and protection of Asian elephants. On this join-in experience, learn about the elephants' story, behavior, and daily routines. Enjoy feeding them fresh treats, walking alongside them, and joining in a gentle bathing session. Meeting these gentle giants - especially the playful babies - becomes the highlight of your Thailand trip.

Today your private driver will take you to the airport for your flight to Phuket, Thailand's most favorable island paradise. Your relaxing beach vacation starts from here!

If you prefer a quieter escape, you can choose alternative islands such as Koh Samui, this itinerary is tailored to your requests.