Duration
3 weeks
Best Time
Nov - Feb
Countries
3
Budget
$2,000 - $3,500
Overview
Experience the best of Southeast Asia in three unforgettable weeks. From Bangkok's golden temples to the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay and the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat, this itinerary balances adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Highlights
Day by day
Click on each day to expand details
Land at BKK, check into your hotel near Khao San Road. Start with Wat Pho (the reclining Buddha) and Wat Arun at sunset. Street food dinner in Chinatown.
Tips
- —Get a SIM card at the airport
- —Use Grab app for transport
- —Wear appropriate temple clothing
Morning at the Grand Palace complex. Afternoon at Chatuchak Weekend Market if timing works, otherwise explore the canal neighborhoods by boat.
Tips
- —Arrive at Grand Palace at opening to avoid crowds
- —Stay hydrated – it's hot!
Morning flight to Chiang Mai. Explore the Old City temples on foot. Evening cooking class to learn Thai cuisine.
Tips
- —Book cooking class in advance
- —The Night Bazaar starts around 6pm
Full day at an ethical elephant sanctuary. Feed, bathe, and walk with elephants in a natural setting. Life-changing experience.
Tips
- —Only visit ethical sanctuaries – no riding!
- —Bring change of clothes
Morning hike up to Doi Suthep temple. Afternoon exploring Nimman neighborhood's art galleries and famous coffee scene.
Tips
- —Start early for Doi Suthep before the heat
- —Try khao soi for lunch
Fly to Hanoi. Check into Old Quarter hotel. Evening street food walking tour – bun cha, pho, and egg coffee.
Tips
- —Vietnam e-visa needed
- —Cash is king in the Old Quarter
Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, and Hoan Kiem Lake. Afternoon at Train Street for the famous passing train.
Tips
- —Mausoleum closed on Mondays/Fridays
- —Check train times for Train Street
Transfer to Ha Long Bay. Board your overnight junk boat cruise. Kayaking among limestone pillars, sunset drinks on deck.
Tips
- —Book a 2-night cruise if possible
- —Bring motion sickness meds if needed
Morning tai chi on deck. Explore Sung Sot cave and swim at a floating village. Fresh seafood dinner watching the stars.
Tips
- —Wake up for sunrise – it's spectacular
- —Tip your boat crew
Morning cruise back, transfer to Hanoi. Free afternoon for last-minute shopping or spa time. Night train to Hue (optional) or rest.
Tips
- —Get a massage – you've earned it
- —Pack a day bag if taking night train
Fly to Siem Reap. Check into hotel with pool (you'll need it). Sunset at Phnom Bakheng temple. Pub Street dinner.
Tips
- —Cambodia uses USD
- —Buy your Angkor Pass today for tomorrow
4am wake-up for Angkor Wat sunrise – worth every lost minute of sleep. Explore the main temple, then Angkor Thom and Bayon's smiling faces.
Tips
- —Hire a tuk-tuk driver for the day
- —Bring snacks and lots of water
Morning at Ta Prohm (the 'Tomb Raider' temple). Afternoon at Banteay Srei (the 'pink temple'). Evening Apsara dance show.
Tips
- —Ta Prohm best early before crowds
- —Book Apsara show with dinner
Visit Kompong Khleang floating village – more authentic than Tonle Sap tourist boats. Afternoon pool time. Final night dinner.
Tips
- —This village is further but worth the drive
- —Support local businesses
Last breakfast, final souvenir shopping if needed. Transfer to airport with a heart full of memories.
Tips
- —Check baggage allowance for souvenirs
- —You WILL want to come back
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