A Private Tour of Vietnam, Laos & Thailand – Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong, Luang Prabang, Chiang Mai, Bangkok 

Day 1 Arrive Hanoi (Welcome to Vietnam)

Arrive in Vietnam’s capital, where you’ll be met by your private guide and transferred to your luxury hotel for a two-night stay. Settle in and enjoy the lively energy of the city at your doorstep. 

Day 2 Hanoi (History, Culture & Flavor)

Set out on a curated excursion that traces the heart of Hanoi’s culture and history. Explore world-class museums and temples, hear stories of resilience at Hoa Lo Prison, and glide through the Old Quarter’s maze of alleys on a cyclo, each corner alive with the hum of daily life that has echoed for centuries. Pause for coffee at a local café before returning to your hotel for a leisurely afternoon.

As night falls, dive into Hanoi’s legendary street food culture on a guided foodie adventure. Pull up a plastic stool beside locals in the Old Quarter, sampling signature dishes like silky bánh cuốn, smoky barbecue skewers, and refreshing fruit desserts. End the evening at a hidden café with views overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake, savoring coffee—or beer—as the city glimmers below. (B,D)

Day 3 Hanoi / Halong Bay (From Colonial Charm to Dreamy Seascape)

This morning, set out on a scenic drive to Halong Bay, renowned for its emerald waters and nearly 2,000 limestone karst islands rising dramatically from the sea. Upon arrival, step aboard your intimate luxury vessel and ease into a day of serenity and discovery. Cruise through enchanting waterways framed by soaring cliffs and secluded coves, each turn unveiling new vistas of breathtaking beauty.

Enjoy shore excursions to picturesque islands and mystical caverns, with opportunities to kayak or swim in tranquil lagoons. Onboard, savor freshly prepared lunch and dinner featuring regional flavors, accompanied by sweeping views of the bay. As evening falls, the calm waters and gentle rhythm of the ship set the stage for a night of quiet romance and deep relaxation. (B,L,D)

Note: Cruise routing and shore excursions vary slightly by vessel, though experiences remain equally captivating.

Day 4 Halong Bay / Ninh Binh (From Emerald Waters to Verdant Rice Paddies)

For the early riser, join a Tai Chi session on the sundeck while tea, coffee and assorted pastries are served. Later, enjoy a final chance to kayak or simply relax on deck before savoring brunch on board. Disembark and continue your scenic adventure in Ninh Binh. Known as “Dry Halong Bay,” this off-the-beaten-path gem is defined by limestone karsts rising from emerald paddies, a landscape as cinematic as it is serene. Check in to your boutique resort and enjoy the afternoon at leisure in this stunning countryside setting. (B)

Day 5 Ninh Binh (Farm Villages, Sampan Rides & Hidden Caves)

Begin your morning with an invigorating e-bike ride through Tam Coc’s countryside, gliding past limestone karsts, village lanes, and emerald rice paddies. Visit the artisan hamlet of Van Lam, stop at Bich Dong (Pearl Cave), and continue toward Thai Vi Temple and the remnants of Hoa Lu — the 10th-century capital of the Dai Co Viet Kingdom.

In the afternoon, board a hand-rowed sampan and drift along the Boi River, passing sheer cliffs and mirror-still fields. The boat slips through cave tunnels and beneath stone arches, offering glimpses of daily riverside life: fishermen casting nets, ducks herded downstream, farmers guiding water buffalo across the fields. Return to your resort in Ninh Binh to unwind by the pool or sip a cocktail as the landscape softens into dusk. (B,L)

Day 6 Ninh Binh / Luang Prabang (Journey into the Heart of Laos) 

Morning transfer to Hanoi Airport for a short flight to Luang Prabang, where you’ll be greeted by your Laotian guide and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, enjoy a gentle introduction to the old town with visits to the National Museum—a former royal palace showcasing Laos’ history through regal artifacts, Buddhist art, and cultural treasures—and Wat Xieng Thong, famed for its sweeping roofs and “Tree of Life” mosaic. If you’re up for it, a 355-step climb to the summit of Mount Phousi rewards you with panoramic views of gilded temples, winding rivers, and forested mountains glowing in the sunset. Overnight in Luang Prabang. (B)

Day 7 Luang Prabang  (Laotian Life in Motion)

For early risers, witness Tak Bat, the serene dawn ritual where saffron-robed monks collect alms in silence—one of Luang Prabang’s most moving traditions. Stroll through the lively morning market and enjoy a cup of Lao coffee before returning to your hotel for breakfast. Afterward, travel north along the Mekong’s banks, pausing at Ban Xang Hai, a rustic riverside village famed for its traditional Lao-Lao rice whisky, before crossing the river to the Pak Ou Caves, a sacred sanctuary where thousands of Buddha images have been placed by devoted pilgrims since the 16th century.

After exploring caverns, board your private boat for a relaxing Mekong River cruise back toward Luang Prabang, drifting past misty mountains, river gardens, and quiet villages where daily life unfolds along the water. Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure. (B)

*For travelers seeking a more active experience, the Mekong cruise can be substituted for a Kuang Si Waterfall adventure, with tailored options including hiking, kayaking, or biking. Please consult your travel specialist for details.

Day 8 Luang Prabang / Chiang Mai (Journey to Northern Thailand)

After a leisurely breakfast and a final stroll through town- or simply time to relax and enjoy your resort—a short one-hour flight carries you to another jewel of Southeast Asia: Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your resort. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind, settle in, or wander the city’s famed Night Bazaar at your own pace. (B)

Day 9: Chiang Mai (Choose Your Adventure: Temple Hopping or Thai Cooking Fun)

Today, choose your activity that best match your interest. 

Option 1: Local Markets & Temple Hopping – Explore local temples, markets, and quiet neighborhoods before ascending Doi Suthep Mountain. At nearly 5,000 feet, this revered hilltop shrine offers panoramic views and remains one of Northern Thailand’s most important pilgrimage sites. Check in to your boutique hotel for three nights of comfort and discovery. (B)

Option 2 – Thai Culinary Fun: Venture into Sankhampaeng’s emerald countryside for a hands-on cooking class. Begin with a local market visit, then prepare authentic Thai dishes under your chef’s guidance. Enjoy your creations in a serene rural setting before returning to Chiang Mai. The afternoon is free to indulge in a spa ritual, wander the Old City, shop and sampel street eats at night markets, or simply relax by the pool. (B,L)

Day 10 Chiang Mai (A Day With Elephants)

Step into a once-in-a-lifetime experience: caring for your very own elephant for a day. In the forested hills, you’ll feed, bathe, and walk beside these incredible creatures, forging a bond that feels both humbling and unforgettable. More than an excursion, it’s a rare glimpse into the deep connection between the Thai people and these gentle giants. (B,L) **Includes shared transfers and 2 guests/elephant package**

Day 11 Bangkok (From Small Town Charm to Big City Vibes)

Morning transfer for your flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel, where refined hospitality ensures every detail is tended to with care. After settling in, exploring the vibrant area surrounding your hotel, or sipping a  poolside cocktail, get ready for an evening of food and fun.

You’ll board a tuk tuk for an exciting night foodie tour—sample local favorites such as Khao Man Gai, Pad Thai, and Guay Tiew Kua Gai, explore the Flower Market, and pause at a quiet temple before returning to your hotel. (B,D)

Day 12 Bangkok (The Icons of the Thai Capital)

This morning, your guide reveals Bangkok’s most revered sites—wander the jeweled halls of the Grand Palace, see the Emerald Buddha, admire the Golden Buddha at Wat Traimit, and marvel at Wat Pho’s Reclining Buddha. The afternoon is yours to relax, shop or explore the city on your own. (B)

Day 13 Departure (Farewell Asia)

Your private transfer brings you to Bangkok Airport, where your guide ensures a seamless departure for your flight—concluding an unforgettable Vietnam, Laos and Thailand holiday of comfort, discovery, extraordinary experiences. (B)

• Prices are per person, based on double occupancy
• Prices includes all entrance fees, domestic air taxes, hotels taxes & service charges
• Price excludes transpacific airfares, personal expenses, beverages and gratuities to guides and drivers.
• Holiday surcharges and/or compulsory gala dinners at hotels apply between Dec. 20 – Jan. 05
• Visas are required for Vietnam & Laos. Not included in package.
• All services subject to availability at time of reservation