Southeast Asia Immersion: Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand & Laos

From the organized chaos of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the soothing lush green terraces of Pu Luong, Vietnam pushes you to let go, step out of your comfort zone, and reconnect with your inner explorer. Vietnam can feel unfamiliar and familiar all at once. Try foods you have never even heard of before while being greeted with smiling hosts who feel like familiar friends. Welcome to Hanoi, and to Vietnam, and we invite you to dive in, push your limits, and refill your cup.

After an informative welcome briefing, join your CEO for a multi-course Vietnamese feast. Try sizzling ginger chicken and fresh mango salad. Sip the unexpected with a complimentary egg coffee made right at your table.

ACTIVITY: Enjoy an included arrival transfer from the airport to your Welcome Meeting spot at the joining hotel in Hanoi.

ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

It wouldn't be a trip to Vietnam without hopping on the back of a motorbike. Your drivers and guides this morning are all women from a local organization dedicated to empowering women through employment as motorbike drivers in the tourism sector. These women will guide you through the city-stopping the motorbike to allow for exploration of all the must see stops. Walk around the perimeter of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and visit Ba Dinh Square and One Pillar Pagoda. Explore Huu Tiep Lake and Tran Quoc Pagoda. After working up an appetite, return to the Old Quarter for a huge bowl of Pho at a local restaurant. Slurping is highly encouraged.

Later this afternoon, dive straight into a foodie walking tour of Hanoi. Dig into some of the best Bun Cha you've ever had and end the afternoon at Bia Hoi corner just in time to do some people watching with a cold drink in hand.

ACTIVITY: A once-in-a-lifetime motorbike ride throughout Hanoi Old Quarter and the outskirts of the city to explore all aspects of Hanoi, not only the bustling city, but also the peaceful side. Visit landmarks like the outside of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ba Dinh Square, One Pillar Pagoda, Huu Tiep Lake, and Hoa Lo Prison.

ACTIVITY: Take a seat on a cyclo for a tour of Hanoi’s lively Old Quarter. Let the driver navigate through the bustling streets and start taking some photos or just use the tour to help get familiar with the area.

ACTIVITY: EVENING Indulge your inner foodie with a street food tour through bustling Hanoi. Follow your guide through the back streets and markets of the city’s old quarter, sampling local fare along the way. Observe rush hour, mingle with city natives and experienced street food artists alike, as you taste a variety of Hanoi faves like “nem ran” and “banh goi.” Stop at a streetside bar to savour a Bia Hoi like Hanoians do.

TRANSPORT: Sit back and relax taking in the scenery as you transfer from the hotel to various included activities.

Standing as a symbol of centuries worth of discoveries by sea, the junk boat was first created in 3000 B.C. and throughout time the ship has been used by explorers and merchants alike. Now is your chance to spend a night aboard, embracing your inner explorer. (Albeit with way comfier pillows.) Glide through the steely waters in Halong Bay past limestone karst mountains and lush green islands and paddle a kayak through thousand year old caves.

Step on board our private boat and dig into a thoughtfully catered Vietnamese lunch. Sample local delights like pumpkin soup, fried chicken and Halong steamed tiger prawn. Get in the water with a guided kayaking adventure to explore the natural scenery of Luon Cave. Look out for fossilized shells of oysters and crabs-proof that life existed here millions of years ago. Join your hosts to help prepare springs rolls, or sit back with a well earned glass of local beer. Dinner is plentiful this evening-and served on board.

Additional Information: Pack a small overnight bag with everything you need for tonight and tomorrow morning in Ha Long Bay. Your big suitcase will be stored in a safe place and you will not have access to it after you board the boat until you disembark the next day.

ACTIVITY: Embark on a guided kayaking adventure to explore the natural scenery of Luon Cave.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Spend the day aboard a traditional junk boat. Cruise slowly on the calm bay on this comfortable craft, soaking in the magnificent karst scenery. Relax on deck and catch some rays or stay inside – you’ll still be able to enjoy the scenery through the windows.



During the cruise, feast on local seafood, visit one of the massive cave systems in kayaks, and participate in a cooking class on the boat.



The next day, continue to cruise through the limestone karsts in the morning before disembarking after breakfast.

Tropical rainforest covers the low mountains that surround Pu Luong-with rice terraces as far as the eye can see. Villages dotted throughout the valley are like splashes of colour against a bright green painting. Trekking along the terraces, throughout villages, brings you face to face with day to day life in this picturesque corner of northern Vietnam.

Spend the morning in Halong Bay, enjoying a leisurely breakfast on board. Disembark and make your way to Pu Luong, situated west of Hanoi. Dinner will be familiar favourites - beans, bamboo shoots, and farm raised pork-and some local delicacies like mountain snails dipped in fish sauce.

TRANSPORT: Travel to your featured stay accommodation in Pu Luong with a stop for lunch at a local restaurant.

FREE TIME: EVENING After arriving at Pu Loung Hotel you will be able to spend free time exploring the grounds or getting settled in your new relaxing surroundings.

The village of Pu Luong lies just west of Hanoi, but feels a million miles away. Step out of your wooden bungalow to a vast landscape of green. Start the day with a rich coffee and fuel up for a morning trekking among the rice paddies. Pass by local villages and wave hello to local people as they move about their daily routines. Walk to Ban Cong and dig into a BBQ picnic lunch prepared for you by local chefs just along the riverbank.

Trekking through the rice paddies, you will certainly work up an appetite. Your local chef prepares dishes like barbecue Pork Belly with local Mac Khen seeds and stir-fried morning glory with garlic. While they whip up this delicious feast, participate in a spring roll making activity with your hosts and CEO. It's harder than it looks, but in our view: all spring rolls are good spring rolls.

ACTIVITY: Start the morning with a quick ten minute transfer to the beginning of the trek. Stroll through symmetrical rice paddies stopping to visit local families along the way.

Total distance: 3-5km
Duration: 2-2.5 hours

ACTIVITY: After the trek transfer a half hour to the bamboo rafting meeting point. From here you will walk 1.2km to Ban Cong Village to attend an immersive cooking demonstration and local BBQ with your generous hosts along the bank of a peaceful river. Board the raft after lunch for a 45 minute float on the river amid the serene landscape. A private vehicle will be waiting to take you back to the hotel upon exiting the raft.

FREE TIME: You will have free time this evening to enjoy more of the hotel amenities and peaceful grounds.

Hoi An roughly translates to "a peaceful meeting place" and we promise it lives up to its name. Admittedly, it's hard to get more peaceful than the rice terraces of Pu Luong, but Hoi An offers a contrast to its northern neighbour. Where Pu Luong boasts serenity and calm, Hoi An offers conviviality and vibrancy. Explore this meeting place with a cooking class led by a local chef preparing a three course meal.

One final sip of coffee and a deep breath of jungle air and it's time to bid farewell to Pu Luong. Return to Hanoi to catch a flight to Da Nang. Arriving in Hoi An in the late afternoon, there is no better way to get acquainted than to set out on foot to reach your cooking class and evening meal.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

ACTIVITY: Participate in a cooking class in Hoi An. Walk as a group the 1km to the Green Mango restaurant and learn how to cook five traditional dishes before enjoying your creations for dinner.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Discover the highlights of Hoi An with your CEO on an informative walking tour. Visit the Ong Pagoda, Chua Cau (Japanese Covered Bridge), and the local market. You're getting to know a lot about Hoi An-but what about the claim that its home to the best banh mi in Vietnam? You CEO will offer to show you to the best place in town (but no guarantees you won't acquire a serious banh mi craving from here on out).

The remainder of the afternoon will involve some time at leisure. Your CEO will lead an excursion to a local beach. For the adventure-seekers, we recommend a Jeep tour through the countryside. Learn about the agricultural practices of local farmers by visiting their crops and livestock. Witness how traditional occupations have changed through time from weaving to rice-wine making, to newer industries like bird’s nest farming and aquaculture. Interact with friendly locals, spark conversations, and leave feeling a genuine connection to this place and the people you are meeting along the way.

FREE TIME: Spend the remainder of the day at leisure. Join your CEO on a visit to a nearby local beach or if you are craving more adventure, join a guided jeep tour in Hoi An, travelling through rural landscapes and local communities. If you want to kick back, choose a massage and a dip in the pool.

ACTIVITY: Embark on a captivating half-day CEO lead walking tour of Hoi An's ancient town. Stroll through the narrow winding streets, exploring its rich history and visiting significant landmarks such as ancient houses, the Cantonese merchant house, Ong Pagoda, the Japanese covered bridge, and the local market. The entrance fee for the old city is included.

Hoi An is a must visit on any Vietnam itinerary because you can do it all here. From ancient ruins and fascinating architecture, to delicious food and active adventures-there is a dizzying array of things to see and do. You get to choose today between two curated choices. Embark on a kayaking adventure that takes you from the Cua Dai bridge down to a fishing village and beyond. If you would rather explore the ruins of My Son, join a local guide for comprehensive exploration of various complexes of the site, before returning to Hoi An by boat.

Both of your OMG Day options return to Hoi An in time for some leisure time in the afternoon. Take a dip in the pool or book another activity to complete your customized day.

ACTIVITY: Option 1: See My Son Ruins on a guided tour. Listen as your guide gives a comprehensive explanation and historical lesson on My Son. This in-depth tour aims to provide you with a profound understanding of Cham history, the Cham people, Cham culture, and the Cham Kingdom. After moving through the temple complexes the group will board a covered boat for a 40-minutes boat ride with a stop at Kim Bong Carpentry Village.

Option 2: Grab those paddles for a guided kayaking tour of the old town through the mangroves. Start with a comprehensive safety briefing before kayaking towards Cua Dai bridge in the early morning. Then, paddle to a local fishing village for a visit where local breakfast and coffee with be served. On the return, travel through a serene coco-palm mangrove.

FREE TIME: HALF DAY The remainder of the afternoon and evening will be free to enjoy more of Hoi An.

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's most populated city with just around 9 million people calling it their home. For every 6 people, 1 motorbike enters the city on a daily basis. This organized chaos is a recognizable feature of many Vietnamese cities and learning to navigate the chaos is all part of the adventure. When you arrive in the afternoon, hop onto a pedaling cyclo to get a bit above the motorbike fray and tour the city with your knowledgeable guide. A sunset boat ride is peaceful way to end the day in the big city.

Board a flight from Da Nang, near Hoi An, bound for Ho Chi Minh City. After a delicious Pho lunch, begin the afternoon of adventure featuring a cyclo tour of the city. Wrap up the day with a relaxing sunset cruise.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Take a city tour on a cyclo (cycle rickshaw) – a great way to absorb the sights, sounds, and smells of Ho Chi Minh City. On this 2-hour experience you will visit the Independence Palace and War Remnant Museum while your knowledgable guide offers insightful commentary along the ride.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

ACTIVITY: This evening board a private sunset cruise to see Ho Chi Minh City from the water. Snacks and a refreshing drink will be available as you cruise along soaking in the scenic views.

The Cu Chi Tunnels remain a testament to the enduring spirit of the Vietnamese people and their ingenuity in the face of unthinkable wartime tradgedies. The tunnels may be your destination today, but the journey to gets you off the beaten track to discover more of Vietnam. Hop on a bicycle and pedal your way through the countryside en route to the the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Pass through local villages and stop at a local market to sample local produce. Visit the Phu Hoa Dong traditional rice paper village and witness the age-old craftsmanship and traditions that have withstood the test of time. Your cycling adventure comes to an end once you arrive at the tunnels-where your guided tour begins. Venture into the depths of history with a visit to Ben Dinh Tunnel, one of the remarkable sections of the Cu Chi Tunnels network. Learn how the tunnels were used for strategy and for survival. When you return to Ho Chi Minh City, its time to freshen up and prepare for a final farewell dinner with your CEO and fellow travellers.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle while you transfer from the hotel to the beginning of the cyclo tour and the end of the cyclo tour back to the hotel.

ACTIVITY: After a safety briefing the group will set off on a full-day cycling tour with an included visit to Cu Chi Tunnels. Pedal through fruit gardens along the winding Saigon River and admire the lush green landscape. Dive into the rich heritage of Vietnam at Phu Hoa Dong Traditional Rice Paper Village before searching for travel mementos at the local market. Continue onwards through the rustling leaves of a rubber plantation before venturing into the Ben Dinh Tunnel—one of the sections of the Cu Chi Tunnels network.

Your chariot awaits. So, it's not technically a chariot, it's a tuk-tuk. But not any tuk-tuk. Your drivers are women from the Lady Tuk-Tuk drivers cooperative. This group was founded to provide women in Siem Reap the opportunity to earn an income and support themselves, their families and their communities. Hop aboard, whizz through Siem Reap en route to another community tourism initiative, Spoons Restaurant. Welcome to Siem Reap, and to Cambodia, we invite you to become part of the community.

Spoons Restaurant hosts your first meal in Cambodia. This restaurant provides vocational training for young people in the service industry, while of course, serving up delicious specialties like Num Kruk, a corn and coconut crisply dumpling, and Steak Lok Lak. Dig in and do good.

ACTIVITY: Sit down for a delicious dinner at Spoons Restaurant, part of SPOONS a Cambodian Organization that works with underprivileged young adults and gives them the opportunity to be self-supporting by providing them with education, training, and employment opportunities in the hospitality industry. Their vision is to create a future where all young adults will have equal opportunities to gain independence and be able to shape their own lives.

ACTIVITY: EVENING Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

It's possible that there is no quicker way to understand a culture than by cooking and eating. Spend the morning in the local market with a chef, smelling and tasting the local ingredients. Continue on to Chreav village just outside of Siem Reap and join the chef in cooking some delicious local dishes. With a full belly, the afternoon is yours to choose between a sunset bike ride from village to village, or a scenic boat tour to Kampong Khleang Floating Village.

Your OMG Day begins with an exclusive cooking experience in Chreav village, just a short tuk-tuk ride outside Siem Reap. In the afternoon you can choose between an exhilarating cycle through small villages, ending just in time to take in a peaceful sunset over the rice paddies with a cold drink. If you are looking to take it a bit easier, hop on a boat ride to the magnificent Tonle Sap. The boat will travel to Kampong Khleang floating village, passing by stilt houses, witnessing daily life and observing the marine flora and fauna along the way.

ACTIVITY: Set off on an adventure on a Tuk Tuk orientation drive around Siem Reap finishing with a private cooking class at a local's home. Learn about the tips and tricks for preparing Cambodian specialties from your local expert and try your hand at cooking three authentic Khmer dishes. Transfer back to the hotel via Tuk Tuk.

ACTIVITY: Option 1: Hop on a bike and cycle through the countryside of Siem Reap and enjoy the colours of sunset. Start in the streets of the city before venturing off the beaten path to ride through picturesque villages where you will make brief stops to learn about the livelihoods of the locals. Witness an authentic side of Siem Reap so few visitors get to see. Watch sunset over the palm trees with a cold beverage and a few local snacks. The activity lasts from 2:30pm to 7pm.

Option 2: Enjoy a half-day tour of Kampong Khleang Floating Village with a local guide. The drive time is about an hour to Tonle Sap, the world's second largest freshwater lake. It's here that you will board the boat and travel to the village getting a true sense of daily life on the water. The activity lasts from 2:30pm to 6:30pm.

The ruins of Angkor Wat stand as a testament to the dynamic history of the Cambodian people. Though they, like all ruined structures, are little by little being reclaimed by the jungle around them, luckily for us they defiantly remain standing ready to be admired. Witness sunrise at Angkor Wat with your fellow travellers and expert guide.

Your new friends from the Lady Tuk-Tuk cooperative greet you again just before sunrise to zoom you to Angkor Wat. Enjoy a magical sunrise over the ruins and then continue on exploring Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm with your local guide. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy a well-deserved bit of rest, or a dip in the pool.

ACTIVITY: Travel by Tuk Tuk and enjoy a tour of impressive ancient ruins with a local professional guide. Wake early to watch the sun rise over the magnificent Angkor Wat temple. Visit the enigmatic faces of Bayon within the walled city of Angkor Thom, and tour Ta Prohm (aka the "Tomb Raider" temple), which is slowly being swallowed by the jungle.

FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Spend the afternoon in Siem Reap on your own. Consider a CEO-led visit to the Cambodia War Museum, or the Phare Circus. Dinner will be on your own tonight.

Established in 1993, The Botum Sakur National Park in southern Cambodia, home to the Cardamom Mountains, has been continuously threatened by illegal logging and the poaching of endangered wildlife. The dense jungle of the Cardamoms is one of Asia's seven remaining elephant corridors and is home to gibbons, pangolins and hornbills. This remote and wild place is being protected by an alliance between a number of organizations, and our exclusive stay at Cardamom Tented Camp helps fund the Wildlife Alliance and its partners in protecting this vital piece of our planet.

After a short flight and transfer West, board a small boat to head down the Prek Tachan river. Spot birds overhead as you make the half hour journey to camp. Cardamom Tented Camp is our home for our jungle expedition the next two days, and a homemade Cambodian meal awaits you after settling into your tent. Oh, and don't forget to look up-the nighttime sky here is out of this world. (See what we did there?)

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

TRANSPORT: Drive from Sihanoukville to the boat launch to catch your small boat to Cardamom Tented Camp. Enjoy an included lunch en route.

TRANSPORT: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride from Cardamom Pier to Cardamom Tented Camp for your OMG stay. You will travel along the Preak Tachan river.

Waking up in the jungle, in a safari style glamping tent, with the sound of the birds and the monkeys rustling overhead is probably not an experience you associate with Cambodia, but from now on it will be. After a refreshing sleep, it's time to explore the Cardamoms. Kayak downriver first en route to the old ranger station. Trek through the lush forest on old logging trails, crossing streams from time to time. Your local Cambodian guides let you in on the history of this special place while you explore.

After a morning of exploration, return to camp for another home cooked Cambodian meal. The afternoon offers you some much deserved leisure time to enjoy this remote paradise. Swim in the river or kayak the narrow tributaries looking for birdlife.

ACTIVITY: Embark on a kayak excursion to the old ranger station before taking to the trails and walking back to camp for lunch.

Length: 2-5km
Duration: 3.5-4 hours

FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Spend a free afternoon enjoying the surroundings of your remote camp. Explore the trails close to camp, swim in the river, or go kayaking in search of wildlife.

As locals approached Koh Chang by boat four centuries ago, they remarked that the island's shape looked like an Elephant and thus Koh Chang translated to Elephant Island. Although it is possible to spot elephants here, the island is also home to an abundance of other bird, mammal and marine wildlife. Eighty percent of Koh Chang is designated as National Park and your exploration begins with a CEO-led excursion to a nearby waterfall.

Today, cross the border from Cambodia into Thailand. Take a short ferry to Koh Chang and explore the island with your CEO in the afternoon. A beachside barbecue is the perfect way to celebrate your first evening in Thailand.

TRANSPORT: MORNING Enjoy a boat trip from Cardamom Tented Camp.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle. Transfer to Cham Yeam/Khlong Yai for the Cambodia/Thailand border crossing and continue on to Trat for your boat transfer to Koh Chang.

TRANSPORT: Take a public ferry from Ao Thammachat Pier to Koh Chang and then transfer approximately half an hour to your hotel in Koh Chang.

FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Free afternoon in Koh Chang. Opt to visit Klong Plu Waterfall or relax on the beach.

Thailand shines in this full day exploration of Koh Chang by kayak. Paddle from island to island, stopping to jump into the refreshing water. Paddle to Koh Yuak where you stop for lunch and to snorkel the turquoise waters.

This full day adventure offers plenty of opportunity to get in the water and explore Thailand's marine life. Professional kayak guides lead the days's adventure from island to island.

ACTIVITY: After a safety briefing enjoy a kayak tour around Koh Chang. First stop is Koh Man Noi for a swim and some fresh fruit. Then, kayak further out to sea towards Koh Man Nok and Koh Phil. Lunch will be served near your snorkelling spot on Koh Yuak.

Distance kayaking: 10-15km
Hiking: 1-5km

After departing Koh Chang, arrive to Bangkok and explore its iconic food scene in an exclusive gastronomic adventure. Board a private longtail boat to head to your first stop-to try the one and only Pad Thai. Created by a politician during World War II, Pad Thai is the most famous gastronomic export from Thailand, and a trip to Bangkok wouldn't be complete without sampling it. Afterwards, head by tuk-tuk convoy to Rattanakosin Historical Island to sample a few more small bites. A sweet bite, like Mango and sticky rice, is the finishing touch on delicious evening. A sweet way to end an epic adventure.

Depart Koh Chang by ferry returning to Thailand mainland. Board a flight back to Bangkok. The afternoon is at leisure to relax and rest up before your final group meal.

TRANSPORT: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

ACTIVITY: Sip a sunset drink by the river on the hotel terrace. Then, board a private longtail boat and ride to a restaurant along the river for some delicious Pad Thai. After eating your first course, board a tuk-tuk for the famous street food area of Bangkok where you will sample more Thai specialties. Cap it off with a local dessert and travel back to the hotel via tuk-tuk.

Life along Bangkok’s canals is a mix of old traditions and daily hustle. You’ll see stilted houses, temple spires reflecting on the water, floating markets selling fresh produce, and locals using longtail boats to carry handmade goods, to fish or commute along the tranquil khlongs (canals). The The Siam River, central to Bangkok, offers a glimpse of the city's harmonious blend of culture and urban energy, with its shimmering temples and modern skyline standing side by side.

After breakfast, cycle through Bangkok's Chinatown and ride a longboat up the charming canals of Bangkok toward its more rural side. Share a local meal in the area. After a free afternoon, join an evening dinner cruise up the Siam River. An evening full of delicious food and incredible views.

ACTIVITY: Cycle through the narrow alleys and frenetic side streets of Bangkok's Chinatown. Then climb into a long-tail boat and cruise along the river into a more rural Bangkok. Our cruise will introduce you to the charming canal lifestyle of Thais. Admire the scenes of classical wooden-framed homes on stilts, mothers doing their daily washings, and kids splashing away the tropical heat.

ACTIVITY: With an incredible view of Bangkok as the sun sets, board the Chaophraya River cruise boat for an elegant and charming dinner.

Begin your Thailand explorations by heading north to Kanchanaburi. Explore the Thai-Burma Railway Centre, an interactive museum dedicated to sharing the history of the railway to those who visit. Ride the Death Railway train over the steep cliffs and visit the famous Bridge over the river Kwai. As your Kanchanaburi explorations conclude, board a long tail boat to reach our floating accommodation for the next two evenings.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Visit the Thai-Burmese Railway Museum to learn about the Death Railway's dark history, and the Allied War Cemetery where more than 6,000 prisoners are buried.

ACTIVITY: Take a somber ride over the wooden railway bridge on the slope of a steep cliff, through the beautiful countryside of Kanchanaburi on the railway built by the Prisoners Of War in WWII.

TRANSPORT: Board a longboat and float down the river to your accommodations.

Named for the torturous and hellish-like conditions in which the workers toiled away on the railway, Hellfire Pass and it's namesake interpretive centre offer an incredible glimpse into this pivotal time in global history. Spend some time at the centre and then trek out to Hintok Cutting to experience the trail itself, and imagine what it might have been like for those workers. To cool off after the humidity of the morning, board a flat bottomed raft to float lazily back to your floating accommodation. Want to get a bit of exercise? Paddle yourself upstream a bit and race your neighbor. Enjoy a hearty lunch back at the lodge after working up an apetite.

ACTIVITY: Visit the Hellfire Pass Interpretive Centre. Learn about its dark history and how the track was built by Prisoners Of War who were made to cut through the rock of the Tenasserim Hills using only hand tools. Trek through the Hintok Cutting, about 5 km long with some steep and uneven climbs. Then climb into the River Kwai Jungle Rafter. Paddle down the river and arrive back to the resort.

Onward and upward today, quite literally. Flying north to Chiang Rai brings us to our last stop in Thailand and the opportunity to experience the unique culture of northern Thailand. Join your CEO and a local expert guide for a foodie walking tour designed to introduce you to some of the regions most famous dishes. Sample Sai Ou, a type of sausage from Laos and northern Thailand and douse everything in Nam Prik, chili sauce with lime, shrimp paste and garlic. You'll sample over ten types of food and drink, so there's almost a guarantee you'll identify your new favorite Thai food item before the night concludes.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

With so much to explore in Chiang Rai, there is no wrong way to spend your OMG Day. If you are looking for some exercise, get out on two wheels and explore Chiangsaen and the Golden Triangle area on a guided cycling tour. Visit an Opium Museum that gives context to the naming of the 'Golden Triangle' as you cycle through rice, cassava and pineapple fields. If you relish taking things at a less active pace, join some fellow travelers on an incredible Tea Journey. Head to an area one dominated-and destroyed by- the aforementioned Opium trade, and witness how it has been transformed into a thriving landscape of tea plantations. Join an expert guide as you learn all about tea blending and dipping, and sample some of the local blends. Enjoy an outdoor picnic lunch-with a cup of tea of course.

ACTIVITY: Option 1: Cycling around Chiangsaen Ancient City and see many historic sites around the city including Wat Phra That Chedi Luang, city wall and city moat. Cycle through the back road to Golden Triangle area where the three countries of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar touch. On the way you will experience the real local lifestyle and countryside. Visit a House of Opium (Opium museum) and learn about the history of opium trade that led to the area being called the Golden Triangle. Pass through some gently rolling hills of the countryside, rice fiends, cassava and pineapple plantations and stop for lunch at a local restuarnt.
Option 2: Travel to Doi Tung, home to the Shan, Lahu, and Akha communities. This area was previously dominated by opium farming and trade, which had a widespread devastating effect of the environment and local people. Today this mountainous district is incredibly beautiful and unrecognizable from the scarred landscape you see in old photos at the museum thanks to reforestation and sustainable agriculture efforts in the area. Visit the Tea Plantation and learn about the tea including the blending, dipping and sipping process! Then enjoy a picnic lunch served in banana leaves.

Bid farewell to beautiful Thailand as you board a private chartered slow boat in Laos to cruise along the Mekong River. Spend the day aboard the boat relaxing, snapping photos and taking in life along the Mekong from your unique vantage point. Dine on a delicious lunch aboard and disembark in the late afternoon to make your way to your comfortable hotel in Pak Beng.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Travel from Thailand to Laos, entering at the Huay Xai Border Crossing. Take a public bus across the Tha-Laos Friendship Bridge No.4 and pass through immigration to arrive in Laos.

TRANSPORT: Travel along the Mekong River in a luxurious riverboat. Travel from the border town of Huay Xai to Pak Beng. Have lunch and get hands on with a local experience on board.

A final morning on board the slow boat means a few final opportunities for photos of the famous Pak Ou caves and a final lunch on board as your slow boat expedition comes to an end. Journey into Laos further as you head to Nong Khiaw, an area of Laos not yet overly popular with international tourists. After two days of relative relaxation, choose to stretch your legs and see Nong Khiaw's undeniable beauty on a hike to the Som Nang viewpoint. Sunset from the viewpoint is spectacular, and worth the half an hour walk.

TRANSPORT: Continue to float down the Mekong River and travel from Pak Beng to Pak Ou Caves. Eat lunch on board before arrive, then disembark and explore the impressive and breathtaking Pak Ou Caves.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

FREE TIME: Spend a afternoon at your OMG Stay in Nong Khiaw.

Nayangtai Village welcomes you this morning for an immersion into the local Tai Lue community. Participate in the Baci Sou Kwan ceremony, a cultural and spiritual traditions of the Tai Lue tribe, and then join local artisans to learn about local pottery making and bamboo weaving. In the afternoon, board a traditional boat to ride upstream to Ban Sopkhong village, where a short trek brings you to a beautiful waterfall. Take some time to refresh yourself in the waterfall before returning back to the village and back downstream to your hotel on the riverside.

ACTIVITY: Visit the vibrant Nayangtai Village, founded by Pannavith Bounthiphanh, a proud native of the Tai Lue community. The village aspires to be a leading model of cultural tourism and community-based tourism. Participate in the Baci Sou Kwan ceremony, deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual traditions of the Tai Lue tribe, is a profound and meaningful ritual that celebrates the bonds of family, community, and the human connection to the spiritual world. This ancient practice, known across many Lao and Tai ethnic groups, holds a special place in the life of the Tai Lue people, marking significant life events, transitions, and communal gatherings. Then explore the village and its stunning natural landscapes. Learn traditional pottery and bamboo weaving directly from skilled local artisans. Share a delicious Lue cuisine lunch and watch an amazing performance.

ACTIVITY: Ride on a traditional boat upstream to Ban Sopkhong Village, a small khmu village. Trek along the small dirt road passing the village, through farmlands and rice paddies, finally reaching the beautiful limestone of Tad Mok Waterfall. Spend som free time enjoying a refreshing splash in the waterfall. Then trek back and board your boat to Nong Khiaw

If you are naturally early riser, take advantage of a guided hike to witness sunrise over Pha Daeng peak. This moderate hike features some challenging areas but hikers are rewarded with incredible views over Nong Khiaw and surrounds as the sun pops into the sky. If you are keen for a rest this morning, recharge your batteries with a later start and rejoin your fellow travelers for breakfast after the hike. Our explorations of Laos continue as we head further north to Nam Kay Yorla Pa, a protected forestry area along the Nam Kat river. Grab a few local items as the Muang Xai market before reaching the hotel.

ACTIVITY: An early yet rewarding hike to Pha Daeng Peak will have you reaching the summit just in time for an incredible view over the valley. If you look down (a long way down) you can see the Som Nang viewpoint below. This hike is medium difficulty, being steep in some places but not too extreme or long. Along the trail there are benches, swings and places to rest.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Witness some of Laos most stunning jungle foliage on a walk over 13 hanging bridges constructed throughout the protected area. These bridges bring you to a secluded waterfall where you will have time to swim and enjoy the sounds of nature around you. Enjoy some time at leisure in the afternoon to explore further on a hike or if you are in need of an adrenaline rush, a zipline through the canopy. Join together for an evening cooking class with your CEO and fellow travelers.

ACTIVITY: Trek through the jungle and cross the many hanging bridges. Sway with the tops of the trees and you admire the jungle from a Birdseye view. The adventure brings you to a waterfall,

ACTIVITY: Enjoy a fun cooking class and create some delicious Laotian dishes in an incredible place.

After a final morning and breakfast among the lushness of northern Laos, travel south on a high-speed train to Luang Prabang. Spend time exploring on foot with your CEO at the night market in the evening.

TRANSPORT: Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok, maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.

FREE TIME: Enjoy a free afternoon in the UNESCO town of Luang Prabang.

Choose to rise early this morning and join your CEO to witness and participate in the almsgiving practice near your hotel. Your CEO will guide you through the Luang Prabang market as it begins to open up, allowing for a less chaotic look at some of the more unusual items on offer. Return to the hotel for a hearty breakfast and choose to spend the day as you choose. You CEO will offer an to guide you on an excursion to the Kuang Si waterfall and Ban Ou, or choose to explore this UNESCO World Heritage area at your own pace. To celebrate a final evening together, join your CEO and fellow travelers for a dinner in the local community. You are welcomed with a traditional ceremony, offering blessings for your onward journeys upon leaving the country. Join your local hosts to help make lemongrass stuffed with pork and dine together on an indulgent meal.

ACTIVITY: Rise early and watch the daily dawn ceremony of saffron-robed monks walking through town to receive alms from local residents. Residents prepare food for the monks to subsist on. Seeing this custom is a beautiful way to gain some insight into the local culture and Buddhist religion. Please be respectful and quietly observe.

ACTIVITY: Walk along the quiet streets of UNESCO heritage town to the famous morning market where locals come to buy their fresh fruit, vegetables and meat. Some products are come straight from the jungle, and will seem otherworldly. You can find many different things for sale, like ox-blood in gelatinous cubes, serpents, bats, grilled insects (worms, grasshoppers, bee larvae, crickets, butterfly chrysalis), caramelized pork’s head, and all sorts of leaves and plants which are used to make the traditional dishes. What may be the bizarre to us, is a normal morning market to others.

FREE TIME: FULL DAY Enjoy a free day to explore the beautiful town of Luang Prabang.

ACTIVITY: Join a local Laotian family for a home cooked meal and get hands on making minced pork stuffed in fresh lemongrass. Help the family cook and enjoy flower and banana leave folding and basket weaving as you wait for the meal. You'll receive a traditional scarf to wear, then join a Baci ceremony led by the elder, once a buddhist monk. The heart of the ritual is the ‘pah kwan’, a flower tray. People gather around it, praying together. During the ceremony, participants receive a white thread on their right wrist. This thread stands for purity and blessings. Holding their hand to the chest, they accept the thread, a mark of respect and good wishes. After the ceremony, sit down together for an incredible local meal full of chicken curry, fried vegetables and the lemongrass pork!

Your adventure comes to an end, and you can depart at any time today.

ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.