Grand Tour of Indo-China

Following a period of sustained visitor increase to Vietnam, early signs are that 2010 will attract lower numbers with the main sites less busy. We have therefore been able to negotiate reductions on original tariffs of up to £800 for selected departures, now extended to the end of the year, before the expected return of more visitors and higher prices.

This tour around the countries that make up Indo-China takes in within the course of a little under three weeks the highlights of this little-known corner of South East Asia. The Mekong River rises in Laos, forms the border between Thailand and Cambodia and finally emerges in the fertile delta to the south of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in Vietnam, thus creating a connecting thread through the trio of countries. Whilst purely a political entity, the region was originally a colonial possession of France. The French were beguiled by the gentleness and courtesy of the people and it is said that a posting to Laos was considered ‘the earthly paradise of South East Asia’.

Our journey commences with a tour of Vietnam, from Saigon in the south to the breathtaking landscapes of Ha Long Bay that never fail to impress, as well as the faded glory of French colonial Hanoi. From Hanoi, a short flight to the north of the country brings us to the royal city of Luang Prabang with its colonial shop-fronts and lush verdant landscapes, next to the winding Mekong River and from where we visit temples and Buddhist monasteries.

Siem Reap in Cambodia is the base from which to explore one of the wonders of the world - the impressive Hindu temple complex of the Temples of Angkor. No picture can capture the sheer immensity and splendour of these vestiges of religious constructions in stone.

VJV Special Event - Cruising in Vietnam
Enjoy a medley of cruises on the Saigon River (dinner), Tien River, Thu Bon River at Sunset, Perfume River and at Ha long Bay (lunch).