19 DAYS PANORAMA OF MYANMAR - CAMBODIA - VIETNAM - LAOS

Upon arrival at Yangon International Airport, you are warmly welcomed by our local guide and transfer to the hotel for check in.
 
Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, is a relatively quiet and charming city. Its impressive colonial and spiritual heritage makes it one of the most fascinating cities in Southeast Asia.
 
On your way into town visit to Shwedagon Pagoda the most revered Buddhist temple in Myanmar. Although the origins of the pagoda are unclear, the local legend states that the original structure was built 2500 years ago then renovated several times until taking its current shape in the 15th century. The 8-sided central stupa is 99 meters tall and gilded with gold leaf and is surrounded by 64 smaller stupas and your guide will show you around the massive complex, explaining why this temple is so revered.
 
Enjoy breathtaking views of the golden stupa from this vantage point. Continue to your hotel for check in. Dinner at local restaurant. Overnight in Yangon.

After early breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for the flight to Bagan. Discover one of Bagan’s most famous legends as you follow in the tracks of King Anawrahta and his precious white elephant. The tale states that the King was given a replica of Lord Buddha’s tooth and he placed this on the sacred elephant’s back and set him free. The elephant stopped at four places around Bagan and later the King built stupas at each of these locations. Thus the local Burmese believe that by visiting all four of these places in one day your wish will be fulfilled.
 
Your Legendary Tour begins in the morning, with your Local guide and driver greeting you at the hotel. A stop will first be made at Shwezigon Pagoda. Although this is one of Bagan’s most famous sites, few people realize the legend behind its creation. The centre piece of Shwezigon is its large golden bellshaped pagoda situated upon three terraces. The lower-most terrace once featured wood carvings of nat spirits but these are now housed in a small hall within the temple grounds.
 
Continue on to Tu Yin Taung, a hilltop stupa in the eastern part of the main Archeological Park. As you approach the temple you will be greeted by 500 monk statues which line the road. The stupa’s elevated location offers fabulous views of the surrounding plains, a unique perspective of Bagan and its surroundings.
 
The next stop is LawkaNandar which is in New Bagan next to the Irrawaddy River. LawkaNandar is a bulbous stupa with a cylindrical bell and three octagonal terraces as a base. The temple still functions as a place of everyday worship as it is home to a Buddha relic. We’ll make a stop at Nanduwan Restaurant for lunch before continuing on our Legendary Tour.
 
This afternoon we drive to the jetty where a private boat is waiting to transfer us across the river to Tant Kyi Taung, the last temple on our tour. From the boat, as you cruise across the Irrawaddy, you can see views of the temples in the distance. We travel by jeep (approximately 15 minutes) through the countryside to Tant Kyi Taung. This temple is unique in Bagan as it is thought that many centuries ago, Buddha stopped on the hill where the temple now stands. On the return drive to the jetty we can stop in Tant Kyi village for a short walk around.
 
Then it is time to return to Bagan, first crossing the river by boat and then continuing to an elevated temple to watch the sun set over the plans. Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure. 

Overnight in Bagan.

This morning after breakfast continue your spiritual tour of Bagan with a visit to Ananda Temple, one of the most revered temples in Bagan and which is quiet in the morning, before all the tour buses arrive. Afterwards we will go to Myinkaba Village and visit Gubyaukgyi Temple which is noted for its beautiful mural paintings on its inner walls and well-preserved plaster carvings on its exterior. Nearby is Manuha Temple and Nan Paya Temple, two smaller temples with nice Buddha statues and stone work.
 
OPTIONAL ACTIVITY: Transfer to the Taungbi Monastery where you will participate in a special traditional Buddhist ceremony. Around 10.30 you will partake in an alms procession where, alongside locals, you will donate offerings of food to the monks. Afterwards you will receive a special blessing from the monks to ensure good luck and happiness. USD 350 donation fee.
 
Then visit three lesser-known temples that reflect the diversity of influence in Burmese architecture and religion. Pebinyaung Pagoda, which contains relics in its bell-shaped structure, was built after King Anawratha sent a group of monks to Ceylon (present day Sri Lanka) to help regenerate Theravada Buddhism in that country. The conical stupa construction reflects the influence of Ceylon’s architecture on this site. Continue to nearby Bupaya Pagoda, a bulbous structure on the banks of the Irrawaddy which is similar in style to the Tibetan chorte. At its base is an alter to Mondaing, the nat of storms. Finally continue to NathlaungKyaung, Bagan’s greatest Hindu temple. The structure stands as testament to the religious tolerance that prevailed during Bagan’s heyday. Stop midday for lunch at a local restaurant (own account).
 
Late this afternoon transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Yangon.

Upon arrival transfer to your hotel. If time allows, stop at Kyauktagyi Pagoda en route to see its 70metre long reclining Buddha.Overnight in Yangon.

This morning transfers the airport for your international flight to Phnom Penh. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your local English speaking guide who will assist you with your transfer and check in to your hotel.

Phnom Penh was once considered one of the most beautiful cities in the Orient, and despite its recent turbulent history it still retains a colonial charm as much of its original architecture remains. Cambodia’s capital is a bustling city majestically located at the confluence of the mighty rivers of the Mekong and the Tonlé Sap. Wide tree-lined boulevards and many colonial-era buildings reflect the glorious days and add to the charm of the city where Asian traditions meet Western customs in a fascinating way. This evening you will have a welcome dinner at Bopha Phnom Penh Titanic, the kitchen serves tasty Khmer (and Western) cuisine on the terrace of a breezy terrace restaurant with sweeping river views. Apsara dancing is performed nightly between 7-9pm.

After the dinner you can either be dropped back at your hotel or at the night market on the riverfront.

Note: Night market opens Friday, Saturday & Sunday only. Overnight at hotel in Phnom Penh.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart on a city tour in a typical trishaw. First, visit Wat Phnom, which is situated near the northern boundary of the city. The original temple was built in 1372 by a rich Khmer lady named Penh, who found a collection of statues of the Buddha washed up on the river bank and decided to house them on a nearby hill ("Phnom"). The site contains some good examples of Khmer architecture and statues.

You will visit the most remarkable sights Phnom Penh has to offer. First, you will head to the National Museum which was designed by George Groslier and the Ecole des Arts Cambodians. The museum was built in traditional Khmer style in 1917 and was inaugurated in 1920 by King Sisowath. It houses the world's foremost collection of ancient Khmer archaeological, religious, and artistic artifacts from the 4th to the 13th centuries. Over 5,000 pieces are on display, constituting the repository of the Kingdom's cultural wealth.

Continue on foot to the Royal Palace. This palace dates back to 1866 and was the last palace built during the French colonial period. The same complex houses the Silver Pagoda, named for the over 5000 heavy silver tiles that cover its floors. Its original name is Wat Prakeo, meaning Temple of the Emerald Buddha. In this temple you will view a collection of Buddha’s in gold, silver, crystal, and bronze.

After transfer to the airport for your afternoon flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival you will welcomed by local guide and transferred to the hotel.

Tonight, you will enjoy the dinner at the famed Madame Butterfly restaurant. Set in a beautiful Khmer wooden house, and surrounded by tropical gardens, Madame Butterfly offers an incredible mix of authentic Khmer cuisine, mixed with Thai and Chinese influences. Located away from the hustle and bustle of Pub Street, this intimate restaurant provides a truly relaxing experience, where you can sample some of this nation’s favorite dishes, in a traditional Khmer setting. Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap.

Early morning, depart on a very special sightseeing tour of the famous Ta Prohm temple for sunrise, unique in that it has been left largely as it was found: overgrown by jungle trees and vines, with many parts of the temple crumbling to the ground. This makes the ‘Tomb Raider Temple’ one of the most picturesque and memorable of the Angkor temples.

Breakfast will be served in front of Angkor Wat at Angkor Café before continuing to visit this incredible temple. Built during the reign of King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century, Angkor Wat is constructed following the model of the temple mountain symbolizing the Mount Meru, home of the gods. Inside the temple, the walls are covered with stone carvings and bas-reliefs depicting Hindu mythology and the wars Suryavarman II fought during his reign. Today, Angkor Wat is figured on Cambodia's national flag as the temple symbolizes the soul of the Khmer people.

From here it is not far to the ancient city of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire under the reign of Jayavarman VII. This city is surrounded by an 8 m high wall, drawing a perfect square. Enter the city through the ancient Eastern Gate, an impressive stone gate carved with Elephants and four giant faces.

Continue to Bayon Temple in the exact center of the city. This 12th century masterpiece is a study in grandeur and is well-known for its 54 towers with enigmatic faces representing the 54 provinces of the Great Khmer Empire. The Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King are also must-visits as they are both known for their intricate bas-reliefs.

Return to Siem Reap for lunch (guest’s own account) before departing on an adventure for your senses. Pamper yourself over 3 hours with a deeply relaxing spa treatment at Bodia Spa where the wonderfully calming experience is perfect for anyone suffering from a long journey or a hard day’s activity. First a body massage will relax your mind, then an aromatic salt scrub will revitalize your skin and finally a vitamin facial treatment will ensure you are looking and feeling good.

In the late afternoon, a stylish handcrafted riverboat takes you on a spectacular tour of Tonlé Sap Lake during the most beautiful time of the day. Enjoy the quiet atmosphere on the open water while sipping a refreshing cocktail and lounging in the comfortable sitting area. A truly relaxing experience! Overnight in Siem Reap.

After breakfast at hotel, you will visit the Buddhist monastery WatDamnak and one of the oldest pagodas in the town center. Here, Buddhist monks are celebrating their daily meditation session, which you are welcome to join and experience. Enjoy the rest of this day at leisure to explore Siem Reap at your own pace until proceed to Siem Reap International Airport for your international onward to Ho Chi Minh City.

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport by our local guide then transfer to check in the hotel. Impressive Welcome Dinner will be served at local restaurant. Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh.

After breakfast at hotel, guide will meet in the lobby of your hotel and enjoy the journey to Tay Ninh, the scenery changes as you leave the city behind to views of rice paddies, villagers drying noodles by the side of the road and other scenes typical to southern Vietnam. Visit the Cao Dai great temple at Tay Ninh with its flamboyant architecture, where all the major faiths of the world blend together in a unique religious mosaic. You will have the opportunity to watch the worshippers in their white long tunics during noon mass.

Afterward transfer to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels (50km from Tay Ninh) to enjoy the lunch at local restaurant.

After lunch you will explore Cu Chi Tunnels - an complex of an incredible underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters (Viet Cong) during both the French and American wars. There are more than 200 km of tunnels, comprising a main axis system with many branches connecting to underground hideouts, shelters and other tunnels. You have the chance to crawl through this amazing system of tunnels. For a more “thrilling” experience, you can even test your shooting skills on original AK47s and other guns from past war times (subject to a surcharge). Journey back to Ho Chi Minh. Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Morning meet our local guide in the lobby of your hotel and drive to My Tho the heart of the Mekong delta, famous for its coconut production and quiet, peaceful waterways and the most beautiful landscapes, the pristine natural beauty that is Ben Tre Province. Known as “Coconut Island,” many of its people still rely on tradition and centuries old methods of production. Our program focuses on the Giong Trom and Phong Nam districts, areas untouched by commercial tourism.

We showcase the amazing local people, the villages they call home and the peaceful Rivers they use as a part of their daily lives.
 
Upon arrival, take a Xe Loi ride through the local village of Huu Dinh to enjoy the green fields and gardens. Continue with a short walk to Huu Phuoc Bridge, where you will start your boat trip through small canals with beautiful tropical scenery. On board the boat, enjoy a welcome drink and tropical fruits while cruising.
 
The cruise will first stop at a Coconut processing family owned business. Here you will learn what Ben Tre is known for and the hundreds of uses of each single coconut. Return to your boat and cruise across the water to a brick making factory, where the locals still use centuries-old traditional methods to make the bricks by hand. Enjoy a casual cycling trip that will take you to visit a local rice noodle factory which produces Hu Tieu noodles, one of the most popular dishes in the region.

After your visit take a short walk to one of our friends, Mrs. Huong, who lives with her 3 children and grandson – they live on fishing, shrimp and fruit orchards. Enjoy fresh fruits and tea and then board a rowing sampan taking you through a lush narrow canal, displaying the tranquil nature of the region.

After our team rows you through the quiet canal, reconnect with your Day Cruiser and enjoy a cruise to a private riverside restaurant. It is time for you to relax and enjoy a 5-course lunch of local specialties. Relax and have a walk around the lush garden setting.  

Then continue your cycling trip to My Long to visit Mr. Sau Tuong, a former Vietcong soldier who survived two years fighting the Khmer Rouge in Phnom Penh. Now he and his wife live on making rice paper which is the most famous specialty of My Long village. Have a chat with him and enjoy the crispy rice paper made by his wife, and see how it is made.

Then visit the nearby house of Mr. Hung, who is a famous sticky rice maker in the village. You can also feed his stock of catfish and walk through his fruit garden.

After the visit, the boat will be waiting for you at the pier nearby to bring you back to Ben Tre city where your car will be ready to take you back to your hotel in Saigon, arrival Saigon you will stop at the famous Ben Thanh Market, where you can purchase souvenirs for your beloved ones and shopping before transfer back to your hotel. Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Morning you will explore Saigon city and visit the former Presidential Palace, renowned for its symbolic role in the fall of Saigon in 1975 and continue to visit the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral inaugurated in 1880 became the spiritual and cultural crucible of the French presence in the Orient as was the Post office designed by Gustav Eiffel and resembling a grand railway station, the people’s Committee Hall, Old Saigon Post Office before transfer to Tan Sat Nhat Airport for a domestic flight to Danang.

Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by our local guide and transfer to Hoian while passing Danang city - the fourth largest city in Vietnam, the gateway to the central provinces and a sea port with nice beaches and resort. En route, you vist the Cham Museum - The world's foremost collection of the sculpture of the ancient King-dom of Champa, and the Marble Mountain, whose peaks represent the five elements of the universe en route then continue driving along Non Nuoc Beach to Hoi An. Dinner at local restaurant. Overnight at hotel in Hoian.

Drive to My Son, the Imperial City of the Champa empire between the 4th and 12th century. My Son Sanctuary is a large complex of religious ruins comprising more than 70 architectural remains and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the way back short stop to visit the Sa Huynh Champa Museum in Tra Kieu. Continue to Hoi An.

After lunch at a local restaurant, discover Hoi An - known to early Western merchants, Hoi An was one of the major trading centres of Southeast Asia in the 16th century. Hoi An has a mixed Chinese-Vietnamese atmosphere with low, tile-roof houses and narrow streets. Having been through many ups and downs in the past, the original structures, however, are still virtually intact. That was the reason to persuade the UNESCO to recognize Hoi An as a World Heritage in 1999. Besides, the surroundings of Hoi An, especially the countryside, are one of the most outstanding highlights that visitors should experience during their stay in Hoi An.  One of the best ways to discover Hoi An and its surroundings is by walking. During our 4-hour leisurely walk you will visit some of the historic merchant and community houses, places of worship and famous Japanese Covered Bridge, the daily life of the local people: green paddy fields, vegetable gardens, markets, temples, historic houses, fishermen and stunning countryside scenes will simply mesmerize you. This tour offers great photo opportunities and you may find yourself chatting with the locals and inhaling unforgettable memories. End of the day, transfer back to the hotel and overnight at hotel in Hoian.

After breakfast, start the journey to Hue - the former Imperial City of the last dynasty of Vietnam over the spectacular Hai Van Pass. Have a short stop on top of the pass – once regarded as the prime mountain pass on the North - South national road. Continue further north to Hue – a charming town set on the banks of the Perfume River. Located in Central Vietnam, Hue is the only place in the country where many historic, cultural, architectural as well as artistic values have been preserved. Tangible cultural heritage - the system of historic monuments - and intangible cultural heritage - the Imperial court music - have their own national and international values that were acknowledged as World Cultural Heritages. Hue is also the site where the northern and southern ecosystems meet, the area of river-hills, greenery and beautiful landscapes.

Arrival Hue, lunch at local restaurant before exploring the Imperial City of Hue. The Hue Citadel is situated on the Northern bank of the Perfume River and built by Emperor Gia Long it was designed for the exclusive use of the Emperor and his household. The Citadel is a square 2 km wall  encompassing 3 walled enclosures; the Citadel, Kinh Thanh Hue, the Yellow  Imperial city, Hoang Thanh and in the centre the Forbidden Purple city Tu Cam Thanh where the Emperor lived. The Hue royal complex has been officially recognized by the UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Tour continues to enjoy a scenic boat trip on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest ancient architectural structures for religious worship in Hue. Afterward, check in the hotel.

Tonight you will be brought back to the splendid history of ancient Royal time in Vietnam, you will be charmed with the Royal style decoration of the Royal Dining room, the atmosphere of the diner that you are the King with royal wears., beside you are the Queen accompanied by the servants in traditional royal clothes, all wearing traditional royal clothes. All the food served is royal dishes symbolizing the dragon, phoenix, or peacock. Table is decorated by Hue’s colorful silk and flowers, large candle lights, colorful lantern with dragon pattern and spotlights … All meticulously prepared to the finest details for a sumptuous dinner that fits for royalty.

It will surely surprise you with its authentic cuisines of Hue’s royalty. You will discover how Royal life was by enjoying the "Royal meal" while listening to melodious music and having a feeling of being a real King. Overnight at hotel in Hue.

Located in Central Vietnam, Hue was the former capital of the last Dynasty of Vietnam and has an elegant setting on the banks of the Huong Giang or Perfume River surrounded by lush green hills. Founded as a Royal city in 1687, this small and quiet city is known for the magnificent architecture of its citadels, palaces, royal tombs, pagodas and temples built under the Nguyen dynasty. The city has preserved its cultural heritage including music, the arts and many other traditions and is probably the best place in Vietnam to get a sense of the past and imperial court life.  The Hue royal complex has been officially recognized by the UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. You will visit Tu Duc Royal Tomb or Khai Dinh Royal Tomb - one of the most beautiful mausoleums around Hue. Lunch at local restaurant before transfer to Phu Bai Airport in Hue for a do1mestic flight to Hanoi.

Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you are warmly welcomed by our local guide and transfer to hotel in Hanoi for check in. Free at leisure for your own activities. Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.

Morning drive through the countryside from Hanoi to Halong Bay (165 km east of Hanoi) - a World Heritage Area of outstanding natural beauty, you will experience a rural area dotted with villages, rice fields and farms providing the many parts of the nation with rice, fruits and vegetables. Short rest stop en route, you will reach Halong city after 3.5

12h00 – 12h30     Embark on Cruise followed by a short cruise briefing.
13h00 – 15h30     Savor a delectable lunch as Cruises among the limestone islands.
15h30 – 16h30     Kayak among the hidden areas of the bay, around the Luon Cave area. Back to the Cruise.
16h30 – 17h30     Cruising to Titop island. Go swimming and relaxing at the beach of Titov or climb up to the top of the island for a panorama view of Halong Bay.
17h30                     Cruise back to the main boat for a shower. Relax or snap photos as the sun starts to set.
19h00                     Dinner is served. Socialize with other guests, fish for squid, or just laze around.
Overnight on board.

06h30 - 07h00     Start your day with Tai Chi exercises or a photo hunt.
07h30 - 08h30     Have breakfast at sunrise.
08h30 - 09h30     Explore the amazing Sung Sot Cave - the nicest cave in Halong Bay.
09h30                    Return to the boat. Freshen up and check out of your cabin.
09h30 - 10h30     Continue your cruise exploring the Bay, passing Ba Hang fishing village, Dog Islet, and more.
10h30 - 11h30     While heading back to the habor, watch the cooking demonstration before enjoying a traditional Vietnamese lunch.
12h00 - 12h30     Disembark and transfer back to Hanoi, short rest at Dai Viet or Hong Ngoc or ABC shopping en route back. Arrival Hanoi, check in the hotel. Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.

Note:
-    The above itinerary is for your reference only as each cruise will have its own different itinerary and will be slightly different

-    The cruise itinerary is subject to change due to weather, tide levels and operating conditions without prior notice.

This morning, you will explore the citya to visit the Temple of Literature. In 1076, Vietnam's first university Quoc Tu Giam, was established within a temple to educate Vietnam's royalty, mandarins and members of the elite. The university functioned for an incredible 700 years and its gardens and well-preserved architecture offer a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s past.

Then you will visit The One Pillar Pagoda, founded by King Ly Thai To in 1049, next. This structure is one of Vietnam’s most iconic temples. Close by is the Mausoleum of the historic father figure of modern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh, and The Former Presidents House on stilts where he lived from 1958 to 1969. His former home illustrates the modesty of this Vietnamese revolutionary. (viewed from outside; closed Mon and Fri and from Oct-Nov).

Tour continues to visit Hoa Lo prison, known by its American inmates as the ‘Hanoi Hilton’ during the war years of the 1960’s and early 1970’s. Whilst much of it has been torn down to make way for a modern office development a section of it remains open for visitors and provides a fascinating insight into the domination of the French during their colonial governance. Lunch will be served at local restaurant.

Afternoon you will visit the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. Hoan Kiem Lake was already considered the most beautiful lake in Hanoi when Ngoc Son Temple was built on an island in the 19th century. Initially, the temple was called Ngoc Son Pagoda and was later renamed Ngoc Son Temple, since temples are dedicated to saints. Saint Van Suong, considered to be one of the brightest stars in Vietnam's literary and intellectual circles, was worshipped there along with other National heroes.

Afterward enjoy a leisurely one-hour buggy tour through the streets of this fascinating city,  you will come face to face with the daily lives and activities of Hanoi’s streets as you pass through the congested, but delightful, Old Quarter. Ride pass the fascinating streets, which still bear the names of the shops that could be found in them in the 15th to 18th centuries.

End the day you will attend a performance of the famous water puppet show. The Vietnamese traditional art of water puppetry has roots that date back to the 10th century when it originated in the Red River Delta area of northern Vietnam. The farmers in the region celebrated festivals and harvests by performing this unique art form. Learning to manipulate the puppets is usually a tradition that is passed on as a family secret. It takes a great deal of skill and because the puppeteer’s hands are underwater, it is easy for them to hide their methods. The fascinating part is that the central stage is below the water line, and the puppeteers stand in the waist-deep water. A rattan curtain hides them, but they can see the stage and the audience through the bamboo slats. Transfer to your hotel. Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.

Optional Ionah Show @ surcharge of US$ 35/ pax
Ionah Show - a unique experience combining modern dance, theater, circus, and music, visual and light effects. It delivers novelty and originality in performances and stage effects. Ionah Show is only performing on Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday.

Breakfast at hotel, free at your own leisure until transfer to Noi Bai International Airport for onward flight to Luang Prabang International Airport, you are warmly welcomed by our local guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in.

At the end of the day, climb the 328 steps to the top of Mount Phousi to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding countryside and get back to your hotel by the evening hill tribe market where you may find plenty of local souvenirs to buy such as handicrafts and textiles. Overnight in Luang Prabang
 
DAY 18: LUANG PRABANG – CITY TOUR – BACI (B/L)
Today, Visit WatVisoun, the holiest temple in the city, which was entirely rebuilt in 1887 after being destroyed by the invading Black Flags from Southern China. In the courtyard of WatVisoun stands the atermelon Stupa shaped like the fruit from which it takes its name. Continue passed WatAham, which was first built in the 1500s, and on to Wat That where the ashes of King SisavangVong are kept inside the large central stupa.

Ride along the Nam Khan River to visit WatXieng Thong, the most revered temple in Luang Prabang. Located at the end of the peninsula, close to the Mekong, this temple was built in 1560 by King Setthathirat and is decorated with ornate carvings and mosaics.

Lunch at Tamarind for some of the best local food in Luang Prabang (Lao set menu included).

This afternoon you will leave the town behind and ride to the Phosy Market, where you can join the locals and support vendors by buying fresh products or fruit. Your guide will be here to encourage you to taste some of the exotic flavors of the local fruits, helping to identify new items not found in your grocery store back home!

Continue your ride to Ock Pop Tock. This non-profit organization seeks to preserve traditional weaving techniques, a trade which was once an important source of income for many Lao families but is slowly fading out as modern technology has evolved. A short tour introduces the process of silk weaving from the initial stages of creating the dyes to the final process of loom weaving.

Ride along the Mekong back in to town for your final stop of the day. The Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre is dedicated to exploring the rich diversity of Laos’ ethnic minorities. Traditional costumes, tools, and artifacts are on display alongside in-depth descriptions and written histories. It is a great opportunity to gain insight in to the Lao people (note: closed on Mondays). Return to the bike station to drop off your electric bikes.

As the day comes to the end, you will have the unique opportunity to experience one of Laos’ oldest traditions, The Baci.  The purpose of the Baci, which is a mix of Animist and Buddhist beliefs, is to call back escaped spirits to the body. This is something that is very important before major events such as weddings, births, travel, welcoming friends and farewells. Overnight in Luang Prabang.

For early risers, there is a very special dawn visit to watch the monks collecting the alms.  As the sun begins to rise, long lines of orange-robed monks leave their pagodas and walk barefoot down the streets collecting offerings from Luang Prabang residents. It is a beautiful, serene ceremony that highlights the spiritualism of the Laos people. Return to the hotel for breakfast.

After your breakfast, your local guide will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your international flight home. We hope you had an exciting holiday with us. Making it an affair to remember!