VIETNAM, LAOS, THAILAND AND MYANMAR TOUR 47 DAYS

Destination: Hanoi/Nghia Lo/Mu Cang Chai/Sapa/Ha Giang/Dong Van/Meo Vac/Bao Lac/Cao Bang/Ba Be/Ha Long/Vientiane/Luang Namtha/Moung Sing/Oudomxay/Muong Khoua/Luang Prabang/Vang Vieng/Bangkok/Chiang Mai/Chiang Rai/Yangon/Bagan/Pakokku/Mindat/Kanpalette/Chauk

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner, G=Guide

Day 1: Arrival at Hanoi (D, G) Arriving at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi, you’ll be met and driven to your hotel. You’ll then be free until be picked up to watch the Water Puppet show an art form unique to northern Vietnam, and a good, light-hearted introduction to its rural culture. Later on, your driver will take you to the local restaurant for you “Welcome Dinner” with one of our representative. You’ll spend the night in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi/Nghia Lo (B, L, D, G)

Depart from Hanoi through the Red River Delta into the mountains of Yen Bai province and on to Nghia Lo. The area is home to Thai, Nung, H’mong, La Ha and Ma ethnic minority peoples. Overnight in a hotel or guest house.

Day 3: Nghia Lo/Mu Cang Chai (B, L, D, G)

Exploring the local market in Nghia Lo is a good chance to shop for local handicrafts. Today’s drive is along an exciting stretch of road which climbs over the mountain pass to Mu Cang Chai past H’mong, La Ha and Dzao hill tribe communities. Overnight in a hotel or guest house.

Day 4: Mu Cang Chai/Sapa (B, L, D, G)

The road follows the Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range and winds through tea plantations and rice terraces as it hugs the Nam Ma River. This stunning valley is dotted with Tay, Dzao and H’mong hill tribe villages. Over the 1,900 meter Tram Ton Pass to Sa Pa located in the breathtaking Hoang Lien Son Mountains. Arrive Sapa in the afternoon. Check in hotel. Free time. Overnight at hotel.

Day 5: Sapa (B, L, G)

You’ll hike down to the H’mong ethnic minority villages on the way. You’ll then be driven by Jeep to visit Lao Chai village for your picnic lunch. You’ll take a walk to visit Lao Chai village, a village of H’mong people and then to Ta Van village, a village of Day people. The walk is moderate to intermediate descending down into a scenic valley of cascading water crossed by suspension bridges. You’ll next visit the Giang Ta Chai, a village of Red Dao people before driving back to Sapa for your overnight accommodation.

Day 6: Sapa/Ethnic market/Ha Giang (B, L, D, G)

After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be picked up to visit a market frequented by ethnic minority peoples. Although it’s quite a long drive, the landscape is attractive and the ethnic markets are a fascinating experience. Unlike those in the tourist areas, the markets that we choose are for not only buying and selling, but also meeting places for ethnic minority people to meet and exchange news. There will be plenty of colour and authentic costumes, but very little to buy as souvenirs unless you want to barter for a water buffalo or a sack of fertiliser! You’ll then be driven to Ha Giang. Arriving in Ha Giang in the late afternoon. You’ll spend the night in Ha Giang.

Day 7: Ha Giang/Dong Van (B, L, D, G)

After having breakfast in a local restaurant, you will start the drive to day for Dong Van town, located by the Vietnamese-Chinese border, the farthest district in the North of Vietnam. A soft walk to a nearby village in one of the stops will be very interesting. At noon, you will reach Yen Minh, a small town famous for its variety of local products such as rice corn, wine, handicraft… You will have time to explore around the small town and have lunch in a local restaurant. During the afternoon drive to Dong Van, you will encounter with many different minorities such as Po Y, Pu Peo, Nung, and white H’mong… You will visit Pho Bang village, inhabited by Hoa minority. In Dong Van it is also worth a visit to King Palace Vuong Chi Sinh. You stay tonight in a small guest house in Dong Van.

Day 8: Dong Van/Meo Vac (B, L, D, G)

After breakfast at a local restaurant you drive South-east to Meo Vac. The road is narrow but nice view of picturesque valleys inhabited by many peaceful villages of hill tribes. Meo Vac is small poor town but people are very friendly. You can stop and take a walk around the town to talk with local people. The next 22 km west to Lung Phinh is on a small road but nice and not many traffic. Many stops will need for taking photograph as the scenery again very beautiful. At noon you will be back to Dong Van where you stop at a local restaurant for lunch, before returning to Ha Giang. On the way you will have chance to walk to the village of White Hmong on Ma Pi Leng pass rat dep, or visit the village of Dao and H’mong near Lung Phinh. Overnight in Meo Vac.

Day 9: Meo Vac/Bao Lac/Cao Bang (B, L, D, G)

After breakfast, you’ll picked up and transferred to Cao Bang. You could have chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery on the way and stop and take a walk around Bao Loc town. You have lunch on the way. You’ll spend the night in Cao Bang.

Day 10: Cao Bang/Ban Gioc Waterfall/Nguom Ngao (B, L, D, G)

After breakfast, you’ll start your tour by visiting some of the ethnic group near the town and visit the Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of the biggest waterfalls in Vietnam. The sight in Ban Gioc waterfall bears a poetic, fresh, quiet beauty of water, forest and cloud area mixed with village atmosphere of mountainous ethnic minorities. You’ll then continue to visit Nguom Ngao Cavern one of the largest caverns located inside a mountain among the range of Limestone Mountain in Gun hamlet, Dam Thuy commune, Trung Khanh district. The cave was formed due to weathered process of limestone mountains over a long time. Stepping in the cavern, we seem to see a miraculous world. From high stone cliffs, hanging wonderful sparkling seven-colored stalactites. The nature busy with its work over a long time to create attractive stone statues of which some look like human bodies, some look like forest trees, animals of fairy tales, or a fairy combing her hair, or a good divine, or a huge lotus bulb. Stalactites seem to grow from the soil, or hang down, vertical or horizontal with small and big figures piled and fixed in a hustle indulging visitors. You’ll spend the night in Cao Bang.

Day 11: Cao Bang/Babe (B, L, D, G)

Our car and driver will pick up at your hotel to drive 240km to Ba Be National Park. You’ll stop on the way to have lunch at local restaurant. After lunch, the road will take you through striking mountain scenery. On arrival, you’ll check in your hotel in the park centre. The rest day, you can enjoy a sunset and stroll in the crisp forest air before dinner. You’ll spend the night in Ba Be National Park.

Day 12: Ba Be (B, L, D, G)

After a breakfast at your hotel, you’ll pick up one of the motorboat to cruise around the Ba Be Lake which was known as Pe Lam, Pe Lu, Pe Leng. Following the Tay ethnic language, these words mean “three lakes”. You’ll visit Puong Cave and then the Fairy Pond, set in dense forest with many birds. You’ll cruise to visit Dau Dang Water Fall that is quite sightworthy and have picnic lunch on the way. You’ll take a motorboat again to visit Horse Saddle Mountain. Your day will be finished by taking a short walk to the village of Tay people near by. You’ll spend the night in Ba Be.

Day 13: Ba Be/Ha Long (B, L, G)

You’ll be driven to visit weekly market of the minority people near Ba Be National park. You’ll then be driven to Ha Long, which is often called Vietnam’s eighth wonder of the world and once visited, it is hard to dispute that claim. 4000 spectacular limestone outcroppings, cliffs, arches and coves compete for space in an area that is without doubt the most outstandingly naturally beautiful in the country – incomparable coastal scenery. On arrival, you’ll board your boat, a wooden junk that will take you first to the busy World Heritage area Ha Long Bay, which is translated as “Descending Dragon”. You’ll have lunch on the way. You’ll spend the night in Ha Long.

Day 14: Ha Long/Hanoi (B, L, G)

When you arrive in Ha Long Bay, you’ll board a traditional-style boat for five-hour cruise on the bay to visit some of the cave and making a stop secluded beach where you can enjoy cruising among the cave dotted island and seeing the small fishing boats with are always feature of this lovely bay. Your lunch will be served with seafood on the boat. In the afternoon, you’ll return to Hanoi for your overnight accommodation.

Day 15: Hanoi free (B)

Your time will be your own for strolling the city. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 16: Hanoi/Vientiane (B, G)

This morning we head for the airport to get the early morning flight to Vientiane. On arrival in Vientiane Capital, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Located on the banks of the Mekong River, Vientiane is a charming and fascinating capital, with an interesting mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, Soviet and American influences. A city tour acquaints us with the capital and after freshening up, we start visiting some the major sights; including the oldest temple Wat Sisaket, an amazing structure featuring remarkable frescoes and Buddha images. We also visit the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. Enroute to Lao’s national precious heritage, the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, you will have the opportunity to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph.

Day 17: Vientiane/Luang Namtha/Moung Sing (B, L, G)

The journey northwards begins as we board our flight to Luang Namtha, a province sharing its border with China and Myanmar. Luang Namtha is located on the banks of the Namtha River is a land of rugged mountains and beautiful tropical forests. Today Luang Namtha is populated with over twenty ethnic groups, making this region one of the most ethnically diverse provinces in Laos. On arrival, we travel by road to Moung Sing, stopping along the way at the Akha hill tribe village. This ethnic group originally lived in China but immigrated into Laos over a century ago. They are very poor, but have a vibrant culture and an interesting history. Overnight in Moung Sing.

Day 18: Moung Sing Trekking (B, L, G)

The remote and extremely beautiful mountainous region of Muong Sing is ideal for an adventurous trekking expedition. After breakfast we stroll round this small town observing the daily activities of the ethnic minorities in the village and see the small vendors sell local textiles and handicrafts on the streets. We leave the village and take a short drive north before we setting off on a half-day trek, using the local tracks. We pass through some breathtaking mountain landscape to the Yao, Akha and Lanten hill tribe villages, where we are sure to attract attention from many ethnic minorities, as visitors do not frequently encounter this remote part of the country. Overnight at Moung Sing.

Day 19: Moung Sing/Luang Namtha/Oudomxay (B, L, G)

We depart early this morning for our journey to Oudomxay. These back roads are a perfect way to venture off the beaten track and explore the real Laos. We see very few other travelers, mostly rural dwellers who are just as interested in finding out about our lives as we are of theirs. The drive can be challenging on some parts of our journey due to poor road conditions; however the verdant and rugged mountain scenery combined with the colorful local population makes for a memorable experience. On arrival we check in at a very simple hotel and take a walk to explore this picturesque hill town. Overnight at Oudomxay

Day 20: Oudomxay/Muong La/Muong Khoua (B, L, G)

The local market also attracts numerous ethnic minorities who converge from the surrounding mountainsides or valley to barter and trade their goods. We visit this congregation before setting off on our journey along the Nambak River to Muong La. Here we have the chance to visit the intriguing Pra Xack Kham Temple with its sacred Buddha image. The 400 years old legendary statue is said to have many supernatural powers, and is widely worshipped among the faithful local Buddhists. As we continue from Muong La towards Muong Khoua, the roads begin to deteriorate but the drive is very interesting as we pass through some stunning landscape. Overnight in Muong Khoua

Day 21: Muong Khoua/Nong Khiow/Luang Prabang (Boat) (B, L, G)

Today, embark a long trail traditional boat for a leisurely trip downstream on the Nam Ou River, enjoying the lush green forests and landscape. Along the way we stop to visit the mysterious caves of Pak Ou, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by devoted pilgrims. We continue our trip down the river to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Luang Prabang. This former royal capital with its gleaming temple roofs, fading colonial architecture and stunning mountain backdrop retains a unique charm rarely found in all Asia. There is little traffic on the roads and you will see monks dressed in orange robes scurry in all directions carrying umbrellas shading themselves from the sun. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 22: Luang Prabang City Tour (B, L, G)

It is worth a visit to the National Museum (closed Tuesdays) at the former Royal Palace, which displays a collection of artefacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through to the last sovereign. Today we explore some of the major sights in this faboulous city, including the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, the shrine of Wat Aham, the city’s oldest temple of Wat Sene and Wat Mai. We also visit these sights as well as the magnificent Wat Xiengthong, its exterior architecture is remarkable with decorated guilded stuccoes and doorways, a “tree of life” mosaic pattern set in coloured glass on the back wall and its three tiered roofs sweeping low to the ground representing classical Laotian architecture. A visit to Luang Prabang would be incomplete without ascending 329 steps to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa and to enjoy a beautiful sunset view of the city and its glowing reflection on the Mekong River. From there, we explore the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textile made by local and hill tribe people surrounding Luang Prabang. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

Day 23: Luang Prabang/Vang Vieng (B, G)

After breakfast, we leave this charming city in the early morning for our journey to Vang Vieng. Our journey will be strenuous as we drive along one of the most scenic but also one of the roughest routes in Asia. In the afternoon we arrive in Vang Vieng, a small and tranquil town, which is nestled on a bend of the Nam Song River. Its stunning scenery with a mixture of quiet water and limestone outcrops remains unspoiled, despite recent developments with the advent of tourism. We embark on our boat for a relaxing trip on the Nam Song River, exploring the breathtaking mountain landscape and the famous cave of Tham Jang, which was used in the early 19th century in defense against the Chinese invaders. Overnight in Vang Vieng.

Day 24: Vang Vieng trekking (B, L, G)

Today we head out of town taking a short drive before we setting off on a full day’s trek from Ban Phatang village through undulating hillsides and paddy fields. On the way, we visit Tham Hoy Cave and Ban Phathao village, which is home to the Hmong ethnic minorities. After a splendid picnic lunch, we continue walking and exploring the fantastic limestone karsts formation. The trekking ends when we arrive to Ban Tham Xang in the late afternoon. At this small village, we have a chance to explore the interesting local lifestyle and enjoy a traditional dance performed by villagers. Overnight in Vang Vieng.

Day 25: Vang Vieng/Vientiane (B, G)

After breakfast, we spend half our day driving to the capital city Vientiane, which is located on the banks of the Mekong River. Vientiane is a charming and fascinating capital, with an interesting mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, Soviet and American influences. A city tour acquaints us with the capital and after a short rest if time permits we start visiting some the major sights; including the oldest temple Wat Sisaket, with thousands of miniature Buddha statues and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. Enroute to Lao’s national precious heritage, the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, you will have the opportunity to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph. Overnight in Vientiane.

Day 26: Vientiane/Bangkok (B, G)

After breakfast, we will visit the Morning Market and if time permits we will also visit the weaving village of Ban Nong Bouathong. The rest of the day will be your own before catching the flight to Bangkok. On arrival, the car will pick you up and transfer to your hotel for check in. Overnight in Bangkok.

Day 27: Bangkok/Chiang Mai (B, G)

Free day, at the end of the afternoon you go to the train station and take the night train to Chiang Mai

Day 28: Chiang Mai (B, G)

Arrival in Chiang Mai and transfer to your hotel. Rest of the day free at leisure.

Day 29: Chiang Mai/Mae Taman/Lisu village (B, L, G)

You are picked up from your hotel by your guide. Drive north of Chiang Mai to Mae Taman (approx. 1hr) to the elephant camp. At the elephant camp you will see the elephants taking their morning bath and demonstrating some of their skills. Afterwards take an elephant ride for approx. 1 hrs to a Lisu hill tribe village. The ride takes you through some of the lovely forest scenery and along the river. You will come back to the elephant camp by oxcart. After lunch take a bamboo raft trip down the river, admire the scenery and absorb the tranquility as you float down the river. Then drive back to Chiang Mai in the afternoon

Day 30: Chiang Mai/Chom Thong/Mae Klang waterfall/Karen village/Vachirathan waterfall (B, L, G)

We drive to Chom Thong where we visit a very old temple with beautiful wall paintings. After that we drive to the spectacular Mae Klang waterfall. It is still 45 km to the top of Doi Inthanon (2596 meters). We visit two pagodas here erected for the king and queen. There is a beautiful view from here. Also we do a nature walk in a very mysterious forest. After lunch we descend to a Karen village, the largest hill tribe group in Thailand and originally from Burma. We end with the big Vachirathan waterfall, you can swim here. Late afternoon back to Chiang Mai

Day 31: Chiang Mai/Doi Saket (B, L, G)

Experience the Thai countryside by bicycle. We pick you up from your hotel and transfer you by car to a small traditional village in Doi Saket district, about 20 minutes north east of Chiang Mai. The highlight of the tour is cruising along small countryside roads with hardly any traffic stopping at interesting local sights without having to worry about city traffic. We will pass through traditional villages with wooden houses on stilts, ride along small roads through the rice fields and stop at a lake surrounded by beautiful mountains. Encounters like water buffalos crossing the street or children surprised by the unusual sight of foreigners in their village are to be expected.

Day 32: Chiang Mai/Chiang Rai (B, G)

We pick you up at your hotel and bring you the bus station where you take the air-conditioned bus to Chiang Rai. The journey takes 3 hours through fantastic mountainous landscape. Upon arrival in Chiang Rai you can either walk (5 minutes) to the hotel or take a local taxi. You will stay in the cozy Golden Triangle Inn within walking distance of the night bazaar.

Day 33: Chiang Rai/Mae Sai (B, L, G)

Your guide will pick you up from the hotel and you will travel to Mae Sai right at the Burmese border. There is a very interesting market over here with many products from Burma and China. If you want you can cross the border to catch a glimpse of the Burmese life. Then to the infamous Golden Triangle on the Mekong river. From a viewpoint you can see how Thailand, Laos and Burma converge here. Via the old city of Chiang Saen with its ruins we travel back to Chiang Rai.

Day 34: Chiang Rai/Chiang Mai (B, G)

Morning free at leisure, take for example a local tuk tuk to the fantastic white temple made by a Thai artist. Around midday you will take the air-conditioned coach back to Chiang Mai. You check in again at the Tadkham Village.

Day 35: Chiang Mai/Bangkok (B, G)

Free at leisure. You could for example learn how to cook Thai food or visit the mountain temple Doi Suthep. Late afternoon your aircon sleeper train leaves for Bangkok.

Day 36: Bangkok/Yangon (B, G)

Arrival in the morning, the car will take you to the hotel for refreshment before catching the flight to Yangon. Arrive in Yangon where you will be welcomed by your local tour guide and transferred to your hotel. Late afternoon visit the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda of Rudyard Kipling fame and one of Myanmar’s most sacred places. The massive bell shaped stupa is plated with gold and the tip of the stupa is set with diamonds, rubies, sapphires and topaz – a stunning sight as the sun sets and a most fitting place to begin our trip in this “Golden Land”.

Day 37: Yangon/Bagan by flight (B, G)

This morning we head for the airport to get the early morning flight to Bagan. Check into the hotel and depart for a sightseeing excursion around the Bagan Archaeological Zone World Heritage Area. A comprehensive exploration of Bagan includes Nyaung Oo market; Shwezigon Pagoda, the prototype of later Myanmar stupas; Kyansittha Umin; Wet-kyi-inn Gubyaukgyi Temple with exquisite mural painting of 13th century and Htilominlo Temple. In the afternoon, after a visit to lacquer ware workshops; continue to Manuha Temple built by exile King Manuha; Nanphaya, said to have been the residence of King Manuha; Ananda Temple, architectural masterpiece and Oak-Kyaung monastery decorated with multi colour mural paintings. Enjoy the breathtaking sunset from one of the temple of Bagan. Overnight at the hotel in Bagan.

Day 38: Bagan/Pakokku/Mindat by Jeep (B, L, D, G)

After breakfast, our jeep drive us to Pakokku crossing the river Ayeyarwaddy by ferry at Kyun Chaung and continuing to Mindat about 7hrs drive from Bagan. We will be taking the direct route from Pauk to Mindat, initially crossing the rain shadow plains of Ayeyarwaddy and through teak forested hills towards Mindat. Arrive Mindat and check in at a simple guest house available with very basic accommodation. Overnight at Mindat.

Day 39: Mindat (B, L, D, G)

Today we plan to relax in Mindat and meet some of the local identities. Chin culture is renowned for its strong ethnic identity with a similar tattoo culture to that of Polynesian people. What to see there are Chin ladies with tattoo faces, a primitive Chin playing a bamboo flute with his nose, a charming local market. Overnight at the guest house.

Day 40: Mindat/Kya Do/Aye Village (Jeep + Trek) (B, L, D, G)

There is no rush today, our jeep will drive us to Che Chaung and continue our journey by trek towards Ayesakhan village about 5 hrs trek through Kya Do village with its strong Chin culture. Along the way there are colourful villages and great views towards. Mt Victoria. At Aye village our crew will set us up in simple communal accommodation. Overnight at Aye in simple village accommodation.

Day 41: Ayesakan/Mt. Victoria Summit/Kanpalette by Trek + Jeep (B, L, D, G)

Our route takes you up the forest around the contour of the mountain valley. Jeep will drop you off and then trek up on a relatively steep way for about 2hrs follow by the decent climbing up. Don’t worry! The beauty of Rhododendron forest and the sound of silence will drive away your exhaustion. There you are on the summit of Mt. Victoria. It is originally known as Na Ma Taung and named Mt. Victoria after the memorial present to England Queen Victoria in the British time. In local language, it is called Khaw Nou Toung (The Great Mountain or The Mountain of Spirit or The Mountain of Female). It has an area of 432 acres well-preserved by the forestry department. Lunch on the summit. Trek down to the meeting point where your jeeps wait. Continue drive down the hill and arrive you resort, Mt. Oasis, beautifully perched on the hill. Overnight in the resort with very simple accommodation.

Day 42: Kanpalette sightseeing (B, L, D, G)

Today we start sightseeing on a light trek down the hill around Kanpalette. Visit some villages – Oak Pho, Ma Kyauk Ah & Saut Larn etc. Life there is simple…..in fact the simplest! Animism is an on-going practice. Agriculture & livestock are the life-blood. Ritual is omnipresent. Pretence is unknown. Anxiety & worry can’t be found in their dialects. What you are to eye is simplicity beautified with hospitality. Lunch-box on one of the village and end the day when you arrive in Kanpalette. The jeep will transfer you up to the hotel. Overnight in the resort with very simple accommodation.

Day 43: Kanpalette/Chauk/Bagan by Jeep (B, L, G)

Morning after breakfast, say good-bye to all the staff in the resort and the beautiful Chin Hill. Drive down the hill leading to central Myanmar. Lunch on the way in a local restaurant. View and landscape are completely changed. Getting warmer with sparse forest. Around Chauk & near Bagan, you see many oil mines in the semi-desert flat plain dotted with acacia, cactus and low bushes. Arrive Bagan – the pulsating vein of Myanmar culture and civilization. Overnight at the hotel in Bagan.

Day 44: Bagan sightseeing (B, L, G)

Another day in Bagan. Your morning’s sightseeing starts with Lawkananda Pagoda on the river side; continue on to East and West Phet Leik with its clay plaques depicting Jataka scenes; then Thatbyinnyu Temple, the tallest in Bagan; Shwegugyi Temple; the Palace site and Tharaba Gate. In the afternoon your tour includes Apeyadana Temple with its paintings of Mahayana; Nagayon Temple; the Archaeological Museum; Dhamayangyi Temple, a massive Temple with some of the finest brickwork. Overnight at the hotel in Bagan.

Day 45: Bagan/Yangon by flight (B, G)

After breakfast at hotel, transfer to Nyaung U airport for your flight to Yangon. Upon arrival check in to your hotel. After lunch, we plan to visit the Bogyoke Aung San Market (Scott Market) for souvenir shopping. Overnight at the hotel in Yangon.

Day 46: Yangon sightseeing (B, G)

After breakfast at the hotel, continue exploring Yangon cityscape. Tour highlights include Karaweik, a royal barge for fantastic photo shot along the “pilgrims” causeway across the Royal Lake with stunning views of Schwedagon Pagoda; Chaukhtutgyi, a huge reclining Buddha image and National Museum where precious collections are displayed. After lunch, visit to non-touristic site of local glass making factory and late afternoon stroll around China Town. Overnight at the hotel in Yangon.

Day 47: Yangon departure (B, G)

After breakfast at hotel, you will be transferred to Yangon International airport for your return international departure flight.

Price in US$ per person:

Our price includes:

• Breakfast and accommodation sharing a twin or double room.
• Pick-ups and transfers by private air-conditioned car as specified in the itinerary above
• Travel by private, air-conditioned car with an experienced, safe driver.
• Boat cruise as mentioned.
• Domestic flight tickets in Myanmar: Yangon-Bagan-Yangon with airport tax
• The services of experienced English-speaking guides as indicated in the itinerary except leisure time
• Lunches and dinners, as specified, in the good local restaurants, picnics where suitable restaurants are not available
• Return train tickets: Bangkok-Chiang Mai-Bangkok
• Tuk Tuk ride
• The usage of bicycles as mentioned
• Where necessary, entry fees for all visits as mentioned in the programme.
• Government tax & service charge

Our price does not include:

• International flight tickets and airport tax.
• Visas
• Other meals not mentioned.
• Drinks, gratuities, tips and personal expenses.
• Insurance.

Hotel list for Five Star standard:

• Hanoi: Melia Hotel (***** modern high-rise building in one of Hanoi’s leafy boulevards in the city centre) or similar
• Nghia Lo & Mu Cang Chai: Local hotel or guest house.
• Sapa: Victoria Hotel (***** the best hotel in Sapa with separate building) or similar
• Ha Giang: Khau Vai Hotel.
• Dong Van: Cao Nguyen Da Hotel (local standard) or similar
• Meo Vac: Hoa Cuong Hotel (mini hotel) or similar
• Cao Bang: Bang Giang Hotel (local standard) or similar
• Ba Be: Ba Be National Park (local standard)
• Ha Long: Novotel Ha Long Hotel (***** set amidst a mystical landscape overlooking the stunning bay) or similar
• Vientiane: Settha Palace Hotel (***** located right in the city centre, within walking distance) or similar
• Moung Sing: Phouthat Hotel (located in the area of Muong Sing)
• Oudomxay: Surinphone Hotel (lies in the fine area of Oudomxay)
• Muong Khoua: Shinnerly Hotel (in the area of Muong Khoua)
• Luang Prabang: La Residence Hotel (***** positioned atop a hill, with stunning mountain views) or similar
• Vang Vieng: Villa Namsong Hotel (***** nestled on the tranquil banks of the Song River, elegant colonial architecture, a luxurious garden, a breath-taking view) or similar
• Bangkok: Amari Watergate Hotel (***** overlooking views of the city centre) or similar
• Chiang Mai: Holiday Inn Chiang Mai (**** only minutes from some of the cities most famous temples and the renowned night bazaar) or similar
• Chiang Rai: Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort (***** located 10 minutes from Chiang Rai International Airport) or similar
• Yangon: Trader Hotel (***** sits at the centre of the capital, the perfect base for taking in the city’s distinctive and fascinating culture) or similar
• Bagan: Tharabar Gate Hotel (***** surrounded by more than 4000 ancient temples and Pagodas) or similar
• Mindat: Guest House
• Aye Village: Home Stay
• MyitThar: monastery/home stay
• Kanpalette: Guest House

Hotel list for Four Star standard:

• Hanoi: Silk Path Hotel (**** modern boutique hotel in the old quarter) or similar
• Nghia Lo & Mu Cang Chai: Local hotel or guest house.
• Sapa: Chau Long Hotel (*** overlooking Muong Hoa valley & Mount Fansipan) or similar
• Ha Giang: Khau Vai Hotel.
• Dong Van: Cao Nguyen Da Hotel (local standard) or similar
• Meo Vac: Hoa Cuong Hotel (mini hotel) or similar
• Cao Bang: Bang Giang Hotel (local standard) or similar
• Ba Be: Ba Be National Park (local standard)
• Ha Long: Ha Long Plaza (**** ideally located by Ha Long Bay) or similar
• Vientiane: Novotel hotel (**** ideal location for business trips and holidays) or similar
• Moung Sing: Phouthat Hotel (located in the area of Muong Sing)
• Oudomxay: Surinphone Hotel (lies in the fine area of Oudomxay)
• Muong Khoua: Shinnerly Hotel (in the area of Muong Khoua)
• Luang Prabang: Villa Santi Hotel (**** established in 1992 by Lao businessman Mr. Santi Inthavong in a royal residence) or similar
• Vang Vieng: Vansana Hotel (**** located right in the middle of the Namsong river front, modern amenities in a well-appointed design) or similar
• Bangkok: Hotel Century Park (**** city centre) or similar
• Chiang Mai: The Empress Hotel (**** located in central Chiang Mai, a 10-minute walk to the famous Night Bazaar) or similar
• Chiang Rai: Imperial Golden Trinagle (**** located around 1 km to Anantara Golden Triangle, superior room) or similar.
• Yangon: Grand Plaza Park Royal (**** in the heart of the city’s prized cultural attractions) or similar
• Bagan: Bagan Thande Hotel (**** sits on the edge of the Eastern bank of great Ayeyawaddy river, near one of the sacred stupa, Gawdaw-palin) or similar
• Mindat: Guest House
• Aye Village: Home Stay
• MyitThar: monastery/home stay
• Kanpalette: Guest House

Hotel list for Three Star standard:

• Hanoi: Thang Long Opera hotel (*** city centre) or similar
• Nghia Lo & Mu Cang Chai: Local hotel or guest house.
• Sapa: Holiday Sapa hotel (*** beautiful hotel in the centre of town) or similar
• Ha Giang: Khau Vai Hotel.
• Dong Van: Cao Nguyen Da Hotel (local standard) or similar
• Meo Vac: Hoa Cuong Hotel (mini hotel) or similar
• Cao Bang: Bang Giang Hotel (local standard) or similar
• Ba Be: Ba Be National Park (local standard)
• Ha Long: BMC Thang Long Hotel (**** located in the centre of the Bai Chay tourism zone) or similar
• Vientiane: Inter City hotel (*** centrally located, facilitated with basic modern comforts) or similar
• Moung Sing: Phouthat Hotel (located in the area of Muong Sing)
• Oudomxay: Surinphone Hotel (lies in the fine area of Oudomxay)
• Muong Khoua: Shinnerly Hotel (in the area of Muong Khoua)
• Luang Prabang: Manoluck Hotel (*** combine modern international luxury with traditional Lao styles) or similar
• Vang Vieng: Ban Sabai Hotel (*** set on stilts and built in natural materials) or similar
• Bangkok: Bangkok Palace hotel (*** centrally located at the heart of Pratunam, Bangkok’s commercial shopping and entertainment district) or similar
• Chiang Mai: Lanna Palace Hotel (*** city centre and near by mountain) or similar
• Chiang Rai: Rimkok Resort (*** good location with a very big swimming pool) or similar
• Yangon: Summit Park View Hotel (*** in the city centre, the hotel faces with the green of city park and just 5 minutes walk to Shwedagon pagoda) or similar
• Bagan: Thazin Garden Hotel (*** on the high plain surrounded with ancient Pagodas and ruins) or similar
• Mindat: Guest House
• Aye Village: Home Stay
• MyitThar: monastery/home stay
• Kanpalette: Guest House

If, at the time of booking, any hotels or rooms in the list above are fully booked, we will endeavour to find accommodation of a similar standard elsewhere. If the only available accommodation is of a higher or lower standard, we will revise the price accordingly and consult you immediately.