en
- Signature
- 18-day trip
- From €14,950 per person
Southeast Asia trip | Luxury trip Northern Thailand, Laos & Cambodia with Mekong Cruise
During this exclusive 19-day tour , you ’ll discover the enchanting beauty of Thailand, Laos and Cambodia, where luxury, culture and authentic experiences blend seamlessly. Your journey begins in vibrant Bangkok, where ancient temples and colourful markets provide the backdrop to your first encounter with South-East Asia. You’ll then travel north to Thailand, where you’ll stay in the serene surroundings of the Golden Triangle, surrounded by unspoilt nature and extraordinary experiences. The journey takes on a unique character when you board a stylish river cruise on the Mekong, which takes you past remote villages and impressive landscapes to the charming town of Luang Prabang in Laos.
In Cambodia, the mystique of the temples of Angkor awaits, where you’ll be immersed in centuries-old history and refined culture. Your journey concludes in absolute tranquillity and luxury on the idyllic Song Saa Private Island, where you’ll be surrounded by white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. This carefully curated journey offers a perfect balance between comfort, cultural enrichment and unforgettable moments. A unique journey of discovery through the heart of South-East Asia.
Travel programme
Travel overview
- Day 1 Flight to Thailand
- Day 2 Arrival in Bangkok
- Day 3 Discover authentic Bangkok
- Day 4 The markets of Bangkok
- Day 5 Journey to the Golden Triangle
- Day 6 Discover the Golden Triangle
- Day 7 Start of multi-day Mekong cruise
- Day 8 From Pakbeng to Gaeng Hang Ngai
- Day 9 Local villages and on board the Anouvong
- Day 10 From Khok Luang to Luang Prabang
- Day 11 The highlights of Luang Prabang
- Day 12 Off to Siem Reap in Cambodia
- Day 13 Discover Angkor Thom
- Day 14 The culture of Angkor Thom
- Days 15–17 Journey to Song Saa Private Island
- Day 18 Departure from Cambodia
- Day 19 Arrival
Arrival in Bangkok
Welcome to Thailand, the Land of Smiles! After your intercontinental flight, you will arrive in Bangkok. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be met by our local representative. You will then be taken by private transfer to your hotel, where you will be staying for the next few nights.
Included
- Meet & Greet
- Private transfer to the hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Discover authentic Bangkok
You’ll meet your private guide in the lobby of your hotel and set off with your driver to explore the highlights of Bangkok. Your first stop is Wat Pho, one of the city’s oldest temples, famous for its impressive 45-metre-long reclining Buddha and as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. You will then walk or take a tuk-tuk to the Grand Palace, Thailand’s most important and impressive palace complex, where you will admire the famous Emerald Buddha.
In the afternoon, you’ll meet your private guide again and head to the pier for a private boat trip along the river and through the klongs of Thonburi. During this boat trip, you’ll discover traditional Bangkok, with its wooden houses, local scenes and beautiful temples, far removed from the modern hustle and bustle. You’ll also visit Wat Arun, renowned for its rich history and distinctive facades adorned with porcelain. After the boat trip, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel.
Included
- Cultural tour of Bangkok
- Private boat trip
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
The markets of Bangkok
Together with your guide and driver, you’ll travel to the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. You’ll sail through the narrow canals by longtail boat, past lush plantations, traditional houses and scenes of daily life along the water. After the boat trip, you’ll have time to explore the market, where you’ll find local street food, Thai snacks, handcrafted products and souvenirs.
On the way back to Bangkok, you’ll stop at Talad Rom Hoob, the famous train market. This market is situated right next to the railway line and is known for the remarkable moment when the train passes just a hair’s breadth from the stalls, after which everything is set up again in a matter of moments. After a short stroll through the market, you’ll return to your hotel, where you’ll have the rest of the day at your leisure.
Included
- Visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Talad Rom Hoob
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Journey to the Golden Triangle
Today you’ll say goodbye to Bangkok and check out of your hotel. You’ll then be taken in comfort to Suvarnabhumi Airport for your flight to Chiang Rai, in northern Thailand. Upon arrival, you’ll be taken to the extraordinary Four Seasons Tented Camp in the Golden Triangle. Here you will check in and begin a whole new chapter of your journey, surrounded by unspoilt nature, tranquillity and a unique setting where luxury and adventure come together.
Included
- Private transfer to the airport
- Domestic flight Bangkok – Chiang Rai
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Accommodation on a full-board basis, including activities and drinks
Discover the Golden Triangle
You have complete freedom to plan your day exactly as you wish and enjoy the special experiences on offer here. For example, you can take part in the ‘My Elephant & I’ experience, where you’ll get to know the elephants and their carers in a respectful way. For more active pursuits, you can opt for a walk to Wang Lao or a hike through the hills, or explore the surrounding area by bike.
In between, you’ll enjoy unlimited meals and drinks, including house wines and spirits, and have full access to the stocked private bar in your room. For ultimate relaxation, a 90-minute spa treatment awaits you both. Round off the day in peace and quiet with the daily sundowners at the Burma Bar, whilst taking in the views of the surrounding countryside.
Included
- Accommodation on a full-board basis, including activities and drinks
Start a multi-day Mekong cruise
After an early breakfast, you will depart by private transfer to the border with Laos, where you will be met by the crew of the Anouvong Cruise and welcomed to Laos. After completing immigration formalities, you’ll board the luxury vessel, the Anouvong, where you’ll be staying for the next three nights. You’ll set off from the Huay Xai jetty in Laos and sail along the Mekong River through stunning scenery to your first overnight stop, just before Pakbeng. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the magnificent views and glimpses of local life along the river. The river in this area is mostly wide, but as you travel on, you’ll notice the landscape changing slightly. It becomes more mountainous and the river grows progressively narrower.
In the afternoon, you’ll moor at Khon Teun, a relatively modern Laotian village where various wooden sculptures are crafted by the Tai Lu ethnic minority. You will be welcomed by the village elders, who will greet you with a traditional ‘Baci ceremony’. You will take in the village and the local way of life, have a chat with the locals and then return on board. The ship continues on to the overnight anchorage. En route, the local expert on board will tell you about the itinerary and the region, and dinner will be served on board in the evening. You are free to spend the evening as you wish, or watch the film “Chang”, which will be screened on deck.
Included
- Private transfer to the Thai border
- 4D/3N cruise on the Anouvong, including all meals and activities
- Overnight stay on board
Not included
- Drinks consumed on board
From Pakbeng to Gaeng Hang Ngai
Early risers are welcome to join the daily Tai Chi or yoga sessions on the terrace deck. After breakfast, you’ll arrive in the small town of Pakbeng. You’ll go ashore and visit the nature reserve. Here you’ll find elephants that used to work as logging elephants and have been taken in to enjoy a peaceful ‘retirement’. The reserve is fully committed to the principles of ecotourism and sustainability.
Enjoy lunch and sail on to Gaeng Hang Ngai. You’ll pass the small village of Khok Aek, home to the local Lao, Khmu and Hmong ethnic groups. They have created small organic vegetable gardens which are carefully tended. You’ll meet the villagers and sample the local speciality. Back on board, you can admire the stunning scenery. After an hour, you’ll arrive at your overnight stop. The boat will drop anchor near another small, remote village, and you’ll enjoy dinner, followed by a performance by local residents. Afterwards, you’ll have the chance to watch the film ‘The Rocket’ before turning in for the night.
Included
- 4D/3N cruise on the Anouvong, including all meals and activities
- Overnight stay on board
Not included
- Drinks consumed on board
Local villages and on board the Anouvong
Start your day early with yoga as the first rays of sunshine illuminate the river. After breakfast, you’ll visit a picturesque village of the Khmu people, where you can experience the simple, agricultural life of the villagers and chat with people of all ages.
After lunch on board, you’ll continue your journey down the river and visit the 200-year-old village of Khok Phou, situated atop a vast sandbank, where you can observe daily village life. The day concludes with a cocktail on the sand and an atmospheric farewell dinner, as the evening slowly gives way to a peaceful night along the Mekong.
Included
- 4D/3N cruise on the Anouvong, including all meals and activities
- Overnight stay on board
Not included
- Drinks consumed on board
From Khok Luang to Luang Prabang
The final day on board has arrived. The cruise takes you through the Golden Triangle of Laos. During the final leg of the cruise, you can go kayaking to the famous Pak Ou caves. Near Pak Ou, you’ll go ashore where you’ll meet the local ‘medicine man’, who’ll take you on a jungle trek and explain various interesting facts and amazing things about the natural world in this area. After your trek, you’ll arrive at the Pak Ou Caves, which are adorned with around 4,000 sacred Buddhist statues and images. You will visit the upper cave and then descend a flight of stairs (approx. 200 steps) to the lower, most impressive cave.
Once back on board, you can freshen up and it’s time for lunch. Afterwards, you’ll arrive in the enchanting town of Luang Prabang. You’ll check out and say goodbye to the crew. A private transfer will take you to your next accommodation, and you’ll have the evening free after check-in.
Included
- Day trips such as the Anouvong Cruise, which includes breakfast and lunch
- Private transfer to your accommodation in Luang Prabang
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
The highlights of Luang Prabang
Today you’ll set off for the impressive Kuang Sy Waterfalls, one of the highlights of Northern Laos. These waterfalls consist of limestone terraces with crystal-clear turquoise water and are surrounded by lush greenery. In the lower part of the park, you can rest for a while in the shade, before continuing your walk to the natural pools further up. Here you’ll have the chance to relax and enjoy the refreshing pools.
After the visit, you’ll head back towards Luang Prabang, stopping off at the Ock Pop Tock Weaving Centre on the way. At this special place, accompanied by a local guide, you’ll discover the traditions of Lao weaving and dyeing. You’ll gain an insight into the use of natural dyes, silk production and other crafts such as batik and bamboo weaving.
In the afternoon, you’ll explore Luang Prabang by tuk-tuk. This charming city lies at the confluence of the Mekong and the Nam Khan rivers and is renowned for its rich culture and well-preserved architecture. Together with your guide, you will visit, amongst other places, Vat Mai, the former Royal Palace which now serves as the National Museum, and Vat Xieng Thong, the city’s most iconic and beautiful temple complex.
Included
- Activities around Luang Prabang
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Off to Siem Reap in Cambodia
It is time to leave Laos and travel on to the next destination. You will be taken by private transfer to Luang Prabang Airport for your flight to Siem Reap in Cambodia. Upon arrival, you will be met and taken to your hotel. Siem Reap is the gateway to the famous Angkor temple complex and is renowned for its rich history, bustling markets and charming atmosphere. For the rest of the day, you’ll have free time to settle in at your leisure, explore the city or enjoy your hotel’s facilities.
Included
- Private transfer to the airport
- International flight Luang Prabang – Siem Reap
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Discover Angkor Thom
This morning, you’ll travel along a road lined with ancient trees and arrive at Angkor Thom, the ‘great city’. Here, you’ll admire the impressive, smiling faces of the Bayon Temple, surrounded by 54 towers, each with four faces. You will then visit the Baphuon, an 11th-century temple mountain, and walk across the Terrace of the Elephants, where royal ceremonies once took place. You’ll round off your day in Angkor Thom at the Terrace of the Leper King, with its beautiful Apsara sculptures.
For lunch, you’ll enjoy a home-cooked meal in a private wooden house in an authentic village, away from the tourist crowds. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the world-famous Angkor Wat and be awestruck by the sheer scale and intricate details of this architectural masterpiece. The day concludes at Ta Prohm, an enchanting temple that has been almost entirely reclaimed by the surrounding natural landscape.
Included
- Activities in Angkor Thom
- Local lunch
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
The culture of Angkor Thom
Start the day with a visit to Banteay Srei, the ‘Citadel of the Women’, a stunning pink sandstone temple renowned for its exquisite carvings of deities. Although it is not the largest temple in the Angkor complex, its graceful beauty is sure to enchant you.
Next, you’ll meet the sacred dancers of the Angkor School, where you’ll be immersed in the spiritual world of traditional Angkor dance. Set in lush, tranquil surroundings amongst three sacred sites, the school will show you how the ancient Khmer tradition of dance and religion is brought to life through dedication and discipline. Here, you’ll enjoy a local lunch in the conservatories before returning to Siem Reap.
In the afternoon, you’ll visit Theam’s Gallery, the studio and gallery of one of Cambodia’s most famous artists. Here, you’ll gain an insight into his work and learn more about Cambodia’s aesthetics, culture and traditions. For the rest of the day, you’ll have free time at your hotel to relax or explore the city at your leisure.
Included
- Cultural activities in Angkor Thom
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Trip to Song Saa Private Island
You will be taken by private transfer to Siem Reap Airport for your flight to Sihanoukville. Upon arrival, a private car will transfer you to the pier, where you will board a shared speedboat to take you to your island resort.
Over the next few days, you will be staying at Song Saa Private Island, an exclusive resort renowned for its privacy, luxury and natural beauty. The island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches and lush jungle, and offers plenty of opportunities to relax completely. You can swim, snorkel, go kayaking or simply enjoy the beach, whilst culinary delights and spa treatments are also available. Your stay at Song Saa promises to be a perfect combination of comfort, adventure and serene tranquillity.
Included
- Private transfer to the airport
- Domestic flight Siem Reap – Sihanoukville
- Private transfer to the pier
- Shared speedboat to your resort
- Overnight stays including breakfast
Accommodations
Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort
Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa is situated on the banks of the mighty Chao Phraya River. It is a thriving oasis offering a unique way to experience the City of Angels. Majestic palm trees and spa treatments nestled within lush tropical gardens. Luxurious suites illuminated by the lights of…
Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa is situated on the banks of the mighty Chao Phraya River. It is a thriving oasis offering a unique way to experience the City of Angels. Majestic palm trees and spa treatments nestled within lush tropical gardens. Luxurious suites illuminated by the lights of the city skyline. Delicious dishes that blend flavours from around the world. Admire the sunset from the edge of the pier and watch as river life unfolds before your eyes. Indulge in pampering spa treatments in the tranquil setting of your own private garden. Savour unforgettable meals in one of the 10 bars or restaurants, each offering its own unique culinary delights.
Your stay: 3 nights
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle is situated in the far north of Thailand, where the borders of Laos and Myanmar meet. Accessible by riverboat through exotic bamboo jungles, a unique experience awaits you at the Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle.
The detached tents, spaced well apart from one another…
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle is situated in the far north of Thailand, where the borders of Laos and Myanmar meet. Accessible by riverboat through exotic bamboo jungles, a unique experience awaits you at the Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle.
The detached tents, spaced well apart from one another, offer complete privacy and are designed as open-plan spaces with a large outdoor terrace. Situated on raised ground along a hillside route, the tents offer panoramic views of the Ruak River in Burma, the mountains of Laos or the jungle and the Golden Triangle. The furnishings are handmade and bespoke, with styles reminiscent of the adventurous expeditions of the 19th century.
Your stay: 2 nights
Anouvong Heritage Line
The Anouvong Heritage Line enchants as a small, luxury boutique ship that seamlessly combines traditional Laotian atmosphere and culture with French colonial finesse. Passengers aboard this exclusive vessel discover the most beautiful, remote areas of Laos along the meandering Mekong River in the utmost luxury. The tasteful…
The Anouvong Heritage Line enchants as a small, luxury boutique ship that seamlessly combines traditional Laotian atmosphere and culture with French colonial finesse. Passengers aboard this exclusive vessel discover the most beautiful, remote areas of Laos along the meandering Mekong River in the utmost luxury. The tastefully furnished rooms and suites are equipped with Wi-Fi, hairdryers, air conditioning and a minibar. You can enjoy delicious meals in the ship’s restaurant. Other facilities include a café-bar and lounge, a lounge terrace on deck and a spa where you can relax.
Your stay: 3 nights
Rosewood Luang Prabang
Rosewood Luang Prabang is just a 10-minute drive from the historic city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is situated in a densely wooded setting with natural water features, including a meandering river and a waterfall. The resort offers spacious accommodation, including four…
Rosewood Luang Prabang is just a 10-minute drive from the historic city of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is situated in a densely wooded setting with natural water features, including a meandering river and a waterfall. The resort offers spacious accommodation, including four deluxe rooms, four special suites, three riverside villas, six villas with private pools and six luxury tents. The 75m² luxury tent villas feature a private dining area and lavish terraces. Laotian traditions and French colonial style are interwoven throughout the design and architecture, including the use of indigenous materials and locally inspired works of art.
Your stay: 2 nights
Anantara Angkor Resort
The Anantara Angkor Resort is situated on the outskirts of Siem Reap, just 15 minutes from Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hotel offers opulent rooms and suites with teak flooring, coffee machines, minibars and free Wi-Fi. With three on-site restaurants and room service, guests have a choice of…
The Anantara Angkor Resort is situated on the outskirts of Siem Reap, just 15 minutes from Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hotel offers opulent rooms and suites with teak flooring, coffee machines, minibars and free Wi-Fi. With three on-site restaurants and room service, guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining. Other facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, a jacuzzi and a wellness spa where guests can relax and unwind whilst enjoying a range of spa treatments and massages.
Your stay: 3 nights
Song Saa Private Island
Beautifully situated off the coast of Cambodia, in the Gulf of Thailand, lies the Koh Rong archipelago. It is Cambodia’s most beautiful archipelago, with deep-blue seas, pearly-white beaches and a truly laid-back atmosphere. The Songsaa Private Resort offers you an exclusive tropical island experience.
The resort…
Beautifully situated off the coast of Cambodia, in the Gulf of Thailand, lies the Koh Rong archipelago. It is Cambodia’s most beautiful archipelago, with deep-blue seas, pearly-white beaches and a truly laid-back atmosphere. The Songsaa Private Resort offers you an exclusive tropical island experience.
The resort consists of two small islands: the accommodation is built on one, whilst the spa is on the other. The two islands are connected by a wooden footbridge. The stay is all-inclusive, and you can tick off all your tropical island wishes here. Enjoy a stunning sunset on a private beach whilst being served world-class meals, go diving or snorkelling in the surrounding sea, or learn all about the area’s biodiversity from the biologists based on the island. Not a single tree was felled during the construction of the resort. All the villas, whether in the jungle or over the water, have been built to blend harmoniously with nature.
The resort features 27 luxury beach, jungle and overwater villas, each with its own private pool overlooking the warm sapphire waters of the Gulf of Thailand.
At the heart of the resort is a world-class restaurant and lounge, spectacularly situated just off the island’s coastline and surrounded by the sea. From the large infinity pool, you can enjoy stunning views across both the east and west sides of the island. For those seeking even more relaxation, the resort offers a variety of massages and delightful body treatments at its spa and wellness centre.
You can also relax in the luxurious Over-Water, Jungle and Ocean-View villas. Harmony, sustainability and world-class luxury are the villas’ guiding principles. Natural materials create a sense of synergy with the sea, the rainforest and the local culture. Everywhere you look, there are references to the colours and textures of traditional Cambodian fishing villages, with their sloping roofs and open-plan living spaces. Once inside the villa, you’ll find recycled wood from old fishing boats, furniture made from driftwood collected on local beaches and in bays, and floors made from timber salvaged from old factories, warehouses and demolition sites across Cambodia and Thailand. But more importantly: every luxury is at your disposal! Large beds, a spacious bath, an outdoor shower and a swimming pool. Wi-Fi and a well-stocked bar are also available.
Positive impact
The Song Saa Foundation is a non-profit organisation founded in 2013 with the aim of protecting the habitats of the Koh Rong Archipelago and improving the well-being of its communities. To this end, they have set up various projects, such as sea turtle conservation, providing medical care, promoting local design and launching educational programmes.
Song Saa Private Island is also affiliated with Pack for a Purpose. Pack for a Purpose is a charity that offers travellers the opportunity to use a few kilos of their luggage allowance to help local residents. This could include school supplies, clothing, medical equipment and other essentials, which are donated to the local project via the lodge. To ensure you bring items that are genuinely needed locally, the lodge provides details about the project.
Click here for information about the Pack for a Purpose project at Song Saa Private Island:
https://www.packforapurpose.org/destinations/southeast-asia/cambodia/song-saa-private-island/
Your stay: 3 nights
Experiences
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Train Market
Visit the Damnoen Saduak floating market with your private guide. Behold countless boat vendors trading their products from their boats.
Then continue to the old fishing port of Samut Songkram, known for its colourful Maeklong Railway market. Maeklong railway station is at the centre of this...
Visit the Damnoen Saduak floating market with your private guide. Behold countless boat vendors trading their products from their boats.
Then continue to the old fishing port of Samut Songkram, known for its colourful Maeklong Railway market. Maeklong Railway Station is at the centre of this huge, local market, which is usually packed with people. In front of the station, vendors use the space between the railway tracks to sell their baskets of fruit and vegetables. Walk along the track with your guide until the train arrives!
Pak Ou Caves
This afternoon, set off through Laos’ scenic countryside to the Pak Ou Caves, a mystical pilgrimage site perched high above the Mekong River, 27 miles outside Luang Prabang. On arrival in Ban Pak Ou, a boat will take you across the river to reach the Pak Ou Caves.
Peering into dark corners, your eyes gradually…
This afternoon, set off through Laos’ scenic countryside to the Pak Ou Caves, a mystical pilgrimage site perched high above the Mekong River, 27 miles outside Luang Prabang. On arrival in Ban Pak Ou, a boat will take you across the river to reach the Pak Ou Caves.
Peering into dark corners, your eyes gradually adjust to reveal the serene faces and figures of more than 3,000 Buddha images, some inlaid with semi-precious stones. The fact that these remain undisturbed at this remote site in one of the world’s poorest countries is a testament to the devotion of the people. Return by boat to Luang Prabang, cruising along the Mekong. On the way back, enjoy the lush river life along the Mekong whilst sipping a drink and sampling some Lao snacks.
Stop at two riverside villages along the way. In Ban Xang Khong, the weaving of prized Lao textiles still takes place on ancient wooden looms. Some villagers are also involved in mulberry paper production. The villagers of Ban Xang Hai produce Lao Lao, a rice whisky. Try a swig of this potent drink – if you dare!
Kuang Sy Waterfalls
The Kuang Sy Waterfalls, near Luang Prabang, are among the most beautiful natural wonders in Laos. Crystal-clear turquoise water cascades down a series of terraces, surrounded by lush jungle. You can swim in the natural pools, whilst the sound of the babbling water creates a serene, almost magical…
The Kuang Sy Waterfalls, near Luang Prabang, are among the most beautiful natural wonders in Laos. Crystal-clear turquoise water cascades down a series of terraces, surrounded by lush jungle. You can swim in the natural pools, whilst the sound of the rippling water creates a serene, almost magical atmosphere.
Destinations
Pakbeng
Pakbeng is situated halfway between Huay Xain and Luang Prabang, where the Nam Beng River flows into the Mekong River. There are a few temples to visit and a small local market in the village. On the main street, you’ll find various shops with thatched roofs and a selection of restaurants serving traditional dishes.
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang, the pearl of the East. This charming city, with its elegant French colonial architecture, is steeped in history. The entire city centre is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are no fewer than 33 Buddhist temples scattered throughout the city. The Haw Kham Royal Palace Museum and Wat Xieng Thong temple offer a wonderful insight into the history of the Laotian people. Outside the city, you’ll find breathtaking natural scenery and many more temples. The impressive Kuang Si Falls are one of the region’s natural highlights, with their cascading turquoise pools.
Huay Xai
Ban Houay Xay – also known as Huay Xai or Houeisay – lies on the north-eastern border of Laos with Thailand. Although many simply use the town as a transit point, those who stay longer in Houay Xay will be richly rewarded by the array of sights and attractions. The main ones are the lively Muang Keo (Morning) market, in the Ban Muang Keo suburb, and the evocative ruins of the French colonial Fort Carnot. Nature lovers will enjoy trips to the nearby Bokeo Nature Reserve, which is only accessible via The Gibbon Experience (a nature conservation project run by Societe Animo), and those wishing to experience traditional Laotian life and culture can take part in programmes and projects in Daauw Village, where all voluntary efforts and proceeds contribute to the betterment of the local community.
Bangkok
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is an always dynamic travel destination, famous for its cultural offerings, vibrant nightlife and rich choice of dining options - which range from bustling street markets to very upscale restaurants. Cultural highlights include the Emerald Buddha at Wat Pho, a boat trip on the 'Klongs' (canals) and the Grand Palace. For shopping, visit the tourist hub of Khaosan Road.
Thailand
Siem Reap
Best known as the gateway to the magnificent ancient Angkor temple complex. Siem Reap is a cosy town with beautiful French colonial and contemporary architecture. The main attraction is of course the Angkor complex, covering an area larger than Paris. Abandoned for unknown reasons thousands of years ago, the area was rediscovered in 1860 by a French explorer, Henri Mahout. Other attractions in and around Siem Reap include the many arts and crafts shops, the Tonle sap lake and the Prek Toal bird sanctuary.
Chiang Rai
This charming and peaceful town is the quieter version of Chiang Mai, and also the capital of Chiang Rai province. Besides its fine climate, friendly people and beautiful surroundings of rainforest-covered hills, Chiang Rai also offers plenty of cultural and historical gems. Be sure to visit Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple) and the historic Wat Phra Sin, with its traditional Lanna-style interior. There are also a number of interesting museums to visit, including the quirky Oub Kham Museum, the Hilltribe Museum and the Education Centre, which offer excellent insight into the different ethnicities in the area.
Koh Rong
Koh Rong, also known as Monkey Island, is a breath of fresh air after having visited some of the rougher and rugged destinations in Cambodia's interior. Located 25 km off the coast of Sihanoukville, this small island has 43 km of beautiful sandy beaches along its east and west coasts, lapped by temperate turquoise waters. The interior is largely covered in rainforests where you can hike along beautiful trails. Koh Rong is still a relatively under-the-radar destination, with only a handful of accommodation options and entertainment venues, although there is good nightlife in Tui Bay.
Song Saa Island
Song Saa Private Island consists of two small islands, Koh Ouen and Koh Bong, known as ‘the sweethearts’. The unspoilt, powder-white beaches, crystal-clear azure waters, spectacular sunsets and tropical reefs teeming with colourful marine life make Song Saa a wonderful destination for relaxed luxury. Song Saa is home solely to The Song Saa Sanctuary, a small private resort designed with exceptional care and rustic elegance. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, such as sailing, snorkelling and kayaking, as well as peaceful yoga and meditation sessions and a variety of spa treatments. This unique, secluded spot in paradise is an ideal destination for a romantic adventure combined with some wonderfully indulgent moments of pure relaxation.
Cambodia
Laos
Golden Triangle
The borders of Myanmar, Thailand and Laos meet at the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong rivers to form a tropical region known as the Golden Triangle, centred on the picturesque town of Sop Ruak. Known as the largest opium-producing destination until the 21st century, the Golden Triangle is home to two intriguing opium museums. Boat trips along the strong river flows offer an incredible way to see breathtaking landscapes of folding earth covered in thick green forest. Thailand's northernmost city, Mae Sai, is known for its bustling market, legendary Scorpion temples, stunning Tham Luang cave and lush wild areas inhabited by a variety of animals. Don't miss out: staying in one of the many luxury hotels, exploring Myanmar's remote Shan State, and meeting the mountain people in the sleepy village of Laos, Xieng Kok.
Tonlé Sap
Tonlé Sap (the Great Lake) is Cambodia’s most distinctive geographical feature, swelling to a massive 12,000 square kilometres during the rainy season. The lake and its floodplains are a key fishing and agricultural region, contributing significantly to the country’s economy. It also has plenty to offer visitors: traditional floating villages inhabited by a diverse mix of Vietnamese, Khmer and Muslim residents; superb birdlife (particularly in the Prek Toal Biosphere Reserve); and an amazing array of aquatic wildlife and birdlife, including the almost-extinct Siamese crocodile, as well as turtles, otters, giant Mekong catfish and more than 100 species of waterbirds.
Sihanoukville
Set on a peninsula that juts out into the Thai Gulf, Sihanoukville is Cambodia's most popular seaside destination, thanks to its pristine coast's sandy beaches. By day, these shores and the surrounding ocean are the area's main attractions - visitors can simply soak up the sun, enjoy drinks or a meal at one of the beachside bars or restaurants, or get active with snorkelling, scuba diving or jet-skiing. There's also loads of nightlife to be had here - in recent years, Sihanoukville has evolved into a bustling town with an abundance of bars, nightclubs, beach parties and even several casinos. And if you're looking for a more peaceful experience, head to one of the region's idyllic offshore islands, or to nearby Ream National Park, with its bird-rich mangrove swamps and secluded beaches.
Oudomxay Province
Oudomxay is a naturally beautiful and relatively undeveloped province in the north-western part of Laos. Aside from its forested mountain landscapes and countless rivers, the province is known for its rich cultural life, with a number of indigenous ethnic tribes calling the area home. The provincial capital, Muang Xay – often referred to simply as ‘Oudomxay’ – is the main transport hub for northern Laos and serves as a popular base for those wishing to explore the surrounding wilderness. The town has a popular evening market where you can find a wide range of goods, including food, drink, handicrafts and clothing. Other highlights for visitors include exploring Oudomxay’s many caves and waterfalls, visiting the 600-year-old Phouthat stupa, and meeting the local people on trips to the province’s many traditional villages.
Koh Rong Archipelago
Koh Rong is located about 30 km off the coast of Sihanoukville in southern part of Cambodia. It is an idyllic small archipelago consisting of a number of islands, including Koh Rong, Koh Sanloem and the two small 'Sweetheart Islands' of Koh Ouen and Koh Bong Jointly known as Songsaa Private Island. These beautiful tropical islands boast a number of pristine beaches lapped by temperate turquoise waters and surrounded by lush, untouched rainforest.
Chiang Saen
Chiang Saen is a district in the north of Chiang Rai province, south of the Golden Triangle. Situated along the Mekong River, the district is known as a “quiet riverside town”. The district is home to the world’s tallest flagpole, standing at 189 metres. At the same location, there is a museum and learning centre open to the public. Chiang Saen is home to several original buildings, temples and statues dating back to the seventh century. Markets are held regularly on Saturdays and Sundays in the northern part of the district, where a variety of souvenirs, jewellery, clothing and foodstuffs are on sale.
Chiang Rai Province
This charming and peaceful town is the quieter version of Chiang Mai, and also the capital of Chiang Rai province. Besides its fine climate, friendly people and beautiful surroundings of rainforest-covered hills, Chiang Rai also offers plenty of cultural and historical gems. Be sure to visit Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple) and the historic Wat Phra Sin, with its traditional Lanna-style interior. There are also a number of interesting museums to visit, including the quirky Oub Kham Museum, the Hilltribe Museum and the Education Centre, which offer excellent insight into the different ethnicities in the area.
Southeast Asia trip | Luxury trip Northern Thailand, Laos & Cambodia with Mekong Cruise
We offer the described trip from €14,950 per person.
The price is indicative and is subject to factors including availability and travel dates.
Included
• Domestic flights as mentioned in the ‘itinerary’, including hold luggage
• Accommodation in excellent and distinctive lodges, tented camps and hotels
• All meals as mentioned in the programme
• 4-day Mekong cruise aboard the Anouvong Cruise, including all meals and activities
• All necessary private transfers and shared speedboats as mentioned
• All excursions as mentioned in the programme, including a cultural tour of Bangkok, Bangkok’s markets, activities from the cruise and a visit to Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat
• National park entrance fees where applicable
• Meet & Greet on arrival
• National Geographic or similar travel guide
• Administration fees (€50 per booking)
Positive impact of your trip:
• Contribution of €100 per person towards a positive impact via the Avila Foundation
• Local lunch in an authentic village in Cambodia
Not included
• Intercontinental flights
• Room category upgrade
• Visa fees
• Tourist tax (where applicable)
• Travel and/or cancellation insurance
• Seat reservations
• Personal expenses/tips
• Any departure tax when leaving the destination
• Meals and excursions not specified
• Contribution to the Calamity Fund (€2.50 per booking)
• SGR contribution (€5 per person)