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Grand Indochina Tour

Tuesday, 9 October 2012

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Grand Indochina Tour(2012)

23 day tour to Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Luang Prabang, Vientiane, Hanoi, Halong, Hue, Danang, Hoi An, Ben Tre, Can Tho(Mekong Delta) and Ho Chi Minh City
(Tour Code: GI12)

Itinerary . Prices & Schedules . Remarks . Hotels . Inclusions

Itinerary
Day 1: Australia / Phnom Penh Meal: D
Fly from Australia to Phnom Penh. Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel for 2 nights. Dinner served at hotel.
 
Day 2: Phnom Penh Meal: B/L/D
Today you will visit the city including Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, Killing Field and enjoy Sunset dinner cruise on the Mekong River. Dinner served on cruise.
 
Day 3 Phnom Penh / Siem Reap Meal: B/L/D
Take morning flight to Siem Reap. Met and transferred to hotel. After lunch at hotel, afternoon visit to Angkor Wat, and enjoy the sunset view over Bakheng Hill. Dinner served at city restaurant with traditional dance show performance. Overnight in Siem Reap for 2 nights.
 
Day 4: Siem Reap Meal: B/L/D
Morning take elephant ride from South Gate in Angkor Park to Bayon Temple and visit Bayon Temple, Elephant Terrace Temple etc. In the afternoon take excursion by boat to visit fishing and floating village on Tonle Sap Lake. Free time in the city before dinner served at Nest Angkor Caf?? Bar in the very city centre.
 
Day 5: Siem Reap / Luang Prabang Meal: B/L/D
You are transferred to the airport for your flight to the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage City of Luang Prabang, which is perhaps the best - preserved traditional city in Southeast Asia with a huge amount of tranquillity and charm. On arrival, your guide will lead you up the steps to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as viewing a beautiful and panoramic sunset over the ancient city and the Mekong River. In the evening you can visit the Night Market, which is great for local textiles and local art. Overnight in Luang Prabang.
 
Day 6: Luang Prabang / Pak Ou Caves /Luang Prabang Meal: B/L/D
After breakfast, take a short tour to the city´s oldest stupa of Wat Visoun, the shrines of Wat Aham, Wat Mai, Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong. We then board a cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which gives us a panoramic view of the tranquil countryside as well as an interesting visit to the mysterious of Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. Along the way, we stop at the village of Ban Xang Hai, to experience how the local people make the rice wine. On our way back, we pass the local villages at Ban Xiengmene and Ban Chan, then continue to see the royal temple at Wat Longkhoun. We cross to city and take a short drive to Ban Phanom, a village well known for its hand weaving. Overnight in Luang Prabang.
 
Day 7: Luang Prabang / Vientiane Meal: B/L/D
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Vientiane. Pick up and transfer to hotel, set on a bend of the Mekong river, Vientiane is a fascinating capital, with a fusion of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, and American influences. This charming and easy-going city will provide a smooth introduction to Laos. After a short rest, an orientation walk of Lao Capital is a pleasant way to spend the day, strolling around some of the city´s most historical sites and seeing some of the French colonial architecture. The perfect way to finish the day is to enjoy a drink at a meal and one of the riverside restaurants on the Mekong taking in the sunset. Overnight in Vientiane
 
Day 8: Vientiane Meal: B/L/D
An optional early start gives you the fantastic opportunity to participate in the daily morning rituals of saffron-clad monks collecting offerings of Alms from the faithful residents. This tradition is very unique in Laos, being the only Buddhist nation still preserving the procession. This is a real highlight of the tour. You will be picked up from your hotel this morning and enjoy a city tour of the capital, includes the oldest Wat Sisaket with thousands of miniature Buddha statues and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. On the way to the famous and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, we will stop to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, well known as Vientiane´s own Arc de Triumph. From there, we visit the central market or ´Morning Market´ which is a great place for antiques, handmade textiles and gifts. After lunch we visit the National Museum former which exhibits artifacts, photos and legends of Laos´s history fighters and leaders from the ancient times to the new revolution period. Afterwards we visit The National Museum at the former Royal Palace, which displays a lovely collection of the artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture. Overnight in Vientiane.
 
Day 9: Vientiane / Hanoi Meal: B
Free time till transfer to airport for your flight to Hanoi. Your tour guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Hanoi, Vietnam´s capital city, boasts tree-lined streets and centuries-old temples. Overnight in Hanoi.
 
Day 10: Hanoi Meal: B/L/D
This morning´s sightseeing tour features both cultural and historical highlights, comprising of the Temple of Literature, the Ethnology Museum, Lake Hoan Kiem, the old quarters and a downtown pedicab ride (1 hour). Evening show includes the famous Water Puppets (1st class seats).
 
Day 11: Hanoi Meal: B/L
This morning we visit Ho Chi Minh´s Former Residence and the West Lake. After lunch, you are at leisure.
 
Day 12: Hanoi / Halong Meal: B/L/D
This morning drive to Halong Bay, 170km from Hanoi (it takes approximately 3 hours). You stopover at the ceramic and hand embroidery workshops en route. Board your private boat for a beautiful cruise along Halong Bay (4 hours), a world heritage site recognised by UNESCO in 1994. You will also visit some magical grottoes and relax in the best scenic beauty Vietnam has to offer. A fresh seafood lunch is served on board. Enjoy a short city tour of Ha Long Bay after disembarkation. Overnight in Halong Bay. You could visit the local night market after dinner.
 
Day 13: Halong / Hanoi / Hue Meal: B/L/D
A late morning departure for Hanoi airport for your flight to Hue. A light lunch is served on the way. Upon arrival in Hue, you will be picked up and transfer to your hotel.
 
Day 14: Hue / Danang / Hoi An Meal: B/L/D
This morning is highlighted with a visit to the Dong Ba Market, famous for its best conical hats in Vietnam, Thien Mu Pagoda and the Imperial Citadel, built in 1804 on a site chosen in accordance with geomancy. A performance of ancient dance and court music, a world intangible heritage recognised by UNESCO in 2003, is presented in the citadel. This afternoon, the tour focuses on the tombs of King Tu Duc (ruled 1848 - 1883) and King Khai Dinh (ruled 1916 - 1925). The monuments, designed by the kings themselves, were also used as holiday retreats during their lifetime. Transfer to Danang (110km). Admire beautiful landscape along the road through the Hai Van Pass. Panoramic views of the clouds, the sea and the mountains around are unfolded at the scenic Lang Co lagoon. After arriving in Danang, visit the Cham Sculpture Museum, which boasts the finest collection of Cham sandstone sculptures in the world. Continue to Hoi An. After checking into your hotel, you are free to enjoy the magnificent beaches. Overnight in Hoi An.
 
Day 15: Hoi An Meal: B/L/D
Today your guide will show you the ancient town. Hoi An, so called a ´living Museum City´ because of its well-kept original historical buildings and ancient backstreets. Visit one of the three city´s oldest homes, each built over 200 years ago and still occupied by descendants of the families that originally built them; then tour to the Chinese Assembly Hall. You will also take a cruise along the river (1 hour); followed by a traditional visit to the unique Japanese Bridge. A la carte lunch served at local restaurant and dinner is served at the restaurant by the river.
 
Day 16: Hoi An / My Son / Hoi An Meal: B/L/D
This morning you are transferred to the Ruins of My Son to see Cham Holy See. Lunch and dinner will be served at local restaurants at your choice of western and local dishes.
 
Day 17: Hoi An Meal: B/D
Today is at leisure to explore more of Hoi An at your own pace, possibly to do shopping, get some tailor-made clothes or enjoy a rest on the beach. Dinner is served at your hotel. Optional Cooking class in Hoi An just for fun! The staff from the restaurant will show you around the market in the morning; then take you to the restaurant and teach you how to cook the simple and healthy Vietnamese food. Talk to your local guide and ask them to book this for you the first day when you arrive Hoi An. The cost is between USD30 - 40 per person depending on the group size. You will enjoy your cooking, plus another two courses from the chef.
 
Day 18: Hoi An / Ho Chi Minh City Meal: B/L/D
Transfer to Danang airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, formally called Saigon, the economic and commercial centre of Vietnam. Enjoy sunset on board a tour boat sailing along the Saigon River.
 
Day 19: Ho Chi Minh City / Ben Tre / Can Tho (Mekong Delta) Meal: B/L/D
After checking out of your hotel. please leave your big luggage at the hotel and simply take an overnight bag with you. Enjoy a full day excursion to Ben Tre, 80 km south of Saigon, a peaceful town on the bank of the Mekong River. The Tour comprises of a cruise on the Mekong River, a visit to local homes & orchards, a taste of season fruit and honey tea, a performance of traditional southern singing, a horse drawn cart through the village paths and a sampan ride along palm- shaded creeks. Lunch is served as a Mekong specialty at a restaurant on the islet. Continue your journey to Can Tho (110km). Words simply cannot describe this surreal adventure. If time permits you can relax by the pool or take in a massage at the hotel spa on the banks of the Delta. Overnight in Can Tho.
 
Day 20: Can Tho / Ho Chi Minh City Meal: B/L/WD
Enjoy an early morning boat ride along the Mekong River to the bustling Cai Rang floating market, thronged with buyers and sellers moving around in boats laden with produce. This is a journey you won´t forget and is a "must see" to appreciate the simplicity of the lives and culture of the Vietnamese people. Return to the Hotel for a late breakfast and relax at the hotel. After lunch return to Ho Chi Minh and check into your hotel. A buffet dinner is served tonight at your hotel
 
Day 21: Ho Chi Minh City Meal: B/L/WD
This morning, we head out to Cu Chi, 70km north of Saigon, famous for its 200-kilometre-long tunnels and it was a base of Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Returning to Ho Chi Minh city for lunch, then enjoy a city tour featuring the War Remnant Museum, Cho Ben Thanh Market, Thien Hau Temple and a lacquer workshop. A Western dinner is served at the Cordon Blue Restaurant.
 
Day 22: Ho Chi Minh City / Australia Meal: B
Today is at leisure to explore this city at your own pace; a late checkout till 6pm then a transfer to the airport for your flight bound for Australia.
 
Day 23: Australia
Arrive in Australia in the morning.
 


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Early Bird Savings available with this sign
Click here for details.

Guaranteed Departure Dates and Prices

Tour Code Start
Phnom Penh
Saturday
End
HCMC
Saturday
Full package with international air departing from Sydney / Melbourne / Brisbane# / Adelaide# / Perth#
Vietnam Airlines Singapore Airlines
GI121020
20/10/2012
10/11/2012
5780 6130
GI121103
3/11/2012
24/11/2012
5780 6130
GI121117
17/11/2012
8/12/2012
5880 6230
GI121215
15/12/2012
5/01/2013
6380 6730
GI130223
23/02/2013
16/03/2013
5880 6230
GI130316
16/03/2013
6/04/2013
5880 6230
GI130427
27/04/2013
18/05/2013
5880 6230
GI130518
18/05/2013
8/06/2013
5880 6230
GI130608
8/06/2013
29/06/2013
5880 6230

Important Notice
Fuel Surcharge Update
(effective from 01 July 2012,
except The Best of Vietnam & Cambodia tour, which effective from 10 Jun 2012)
  Vietnam Airlines Singapore Airlines
Increased Fuel Surcharge ADD $40 -

Land only#: A$4850; Single supplement: A$1150; Triple Share deduction: A$-100

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Hotels used for this tour:
Phnom Penh:4*Phnom Penh Sunway Hotel -(2N),
Luang Prabang :4*Luang Prabang Villa Santi Hotel-(2N),
Vientiane:4*Vientiane Lao Plaza-(2N),
Hanoi:4*Hanoi Sunway Hotel -(3N),
Halong :4*Halong Bay Mithrin Hotel-(1N),
Hue:4*Hue Gerbera Hotel-(1N),
Hoi An:4*Hoi An Beach Resort -(4N),
Ho Chi Minh City :4*Saigon Duxton Hotel -(1N),
can Tho:4*Can Tho Victoria Hotel-(1N),
Ho Chi Minh City :4*Saigon Duxton Hotel -(2N) or similar

Pre/Post Stay : Click here for hotel rate.

Remarks:
  • This is a guaranteed departure tour. All prices above include airport taxes and fuel surcharges.
  • Land only price: Tour starts from Arrival transfer in Phnom Penh to Departure transfer in Saigon, including Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia domestic air tickets + Siem Reap / Luang Prabang; Vientiane / Hanoi air ticket & taxes but excluding any other International air tickets.
  • - Single entry Vietnam visa application fee extra $70. - Cambodia visa can be obtained on arrival, two photos and visa fee of US$20 per person are required. - Laos tourist visa can be obtained on arrival in Laos, one passport photo per person and stamping fee of $35USD (an extra $1USD on weekends and public holidays) required.
  • # Package prices of Vietnam Airlines are for departing from Sydney or Melbourne only; not available for departures from Perth. Those departing from Brisbane or Adelaide please add extra $200 for the connecting flights to Sydney / Melbourne.
  • Package prices of Singapore Airlines are common-rated for departures from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide or Perth. For flight to Phnom Penh, those depart from Adelaide need to stay overnight in Singapore at your own expenses.
  • Stopover in Singapore permitted if flying with Singapore Airlines. Extra airport taxes apply. Land arrangement in Singapore can be arranged at additional cost.

Inclusions of Full Package Group Tours

  • Return economy class airfares departing from Australia with selected airlines to Vietnam,Laos, Cambodia and China including all domestic flights, including ticketed airport taxes & fuel charges as at November 2010(CBT Holidays reserve the right to charge extra if airlines increase the fuel surcharge)
  • Fully inclusive tour with all transfers between airports / piers / stations and hotels in each city; daily sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary; evening entertainments; professional English speaking local guides; most of the meals. (breakfast served Western/Local style buffet at hotel, while lunch and dinner are mostly Chinese meals served at selected restaurants, please refer to meal code on itinerary, B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner, BD=Buffet Dinner, SD=Specialty Dinner, WD=Western Dinner)
  • Twin share superior class accommodations, most of our hotels are 4 star international standard (3.5* hotel used for Japan Tour) located in the city centre; all rooms are with private facilities, telephone, colour TV and some are with swimming pool or even room internet facilities etc.
  • Professional English speaking guide, who will accompany the group throughout each country; this is subject to a minimum of 10 clients for each group.
  • CBT Holidays travel wallet and travel bag.

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