SEA NORTHERN TOUR

Itinerary
Departure March 30, 2024

Day 1: Depart MSP to LAX

Depart MSP to LAX
TPE to BKK

Day 2: LAX to TPE

Arrive in Taipei. Same-day flight to BKK

Day 3: Bangkok

Morning arrival at BKK Airport.

Welcome to Thailand! Your tour starts in Bangkok, where a representative will pick you up and take you to your accommodation. After you’ve settled into your room, there will be a significant welcome gathering. Enjoy Bangkok’s infectious vitality for a while. Bangkok is a city rich in history and tradition during the day, but at night, music and neon lights take over the city. While traditional khlong boats slowly wind down the Chao Phraya River, see the endless stream of tuk tuks that pass by. Join your small group for a welcome supper at a top-notch neighborhood restaurant where you will learn about the vibrant local food scene.

Accommodation

• Ramada Plaza by Wyndham or similar (1 night) Included Activities
• Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
• Bangkok – Welcome Dinner Meals Included
• Dinner

Day 4: Bangkok/Khe Noi, Kho Kho, Phetchabun

After breakfast, take pleasure in the morning journey to Phetchabun, the city where the majority of Hmong people reside, Khek Noi, Kho Kho, etc. Before reaching Khek Noi, you will go through the cities, towns, and villages. the afternoon when you arrive. Visit surrounding communities and the Hmong Thai market during your free day. Visit Khek Noi for the evening. A night off.

Day 5: Nan

Early morning drive leaving for Nan. Six hours later, after passing through numerous cities and villages, you arrive at Nan. Visit the nearby communities and the Hmong Thai market. Spend the evening in Nan.

Day 6: Phayao

Morning drive 3 hrs to Phayao. Visit Hmong Thai towns and villages. Visit Spend a night in Phayao. Free evening to explore local markets.

Day 7: Chiang Khong

A drive in the morning across rural terrain to the border town of Chiang Khong, Thailand (approximately 2.5 hours). Chiang Khong, a tranquil riverbank town that was formerly known as “Juon,” continues to be a significant market town for the local hill tribes and for commerce with Laos. Take a stroll around town to stretch your legs, and if you have time, then Wat Phra Kaew Chiang Khong, วัดพระแก้วเชียงของ and Wat Luang are both well worth a visit while you’re here. Visit local Hmong villages and visit Phu Chi Fa.

Accommodation

• Guesthouse (1 night) Meals Included
• There are no meals included on this day.

Day 8: Chiang Sieng/Golden Triangle

It takes around one and a half hours to get to Chiang Sieng, tour the Golden Triangle, and visit a Hmong village. Going back to Chiang Khong. Spend the night in a guesthouse.

Day 9: Chiang Khong/Hoyxai, Borkia, Laos

We will be joined by more Laos guides upon entering Laos in the early morning and during our stay in the nation as required by the authorities. Take a slow boat for the two-day trip to Luang Prabang along the famous Mekong River. The trip is leisurely, allowing you to observe the tranquility of village life and the stunning scenery along the river. The riverboat is simple, with an open side for air intake, a covered top, and a toilet. The front of the boat has seats, while the back has a little open space where you can play cards, read, or take a nap on a mat. Dock at the small town of Pak Beng (after about 6 hours) to spend the night. Hmong and tribal Thai people are frequently seen on the main streets, where vendors sell local textiles and handicrafts.

Accommodation

• Guesthouse (1 night) Included Activities
• Mekong River – 2-day boat trip Meals Included
• Breakfast

Special Information
The accommodations in our guesthouse are fairly basic and typical for this tiny, isolated trading port. Make sure you have warm clothing packed for the months of November through February as it can get fairly chilly during this time. Water levels aren’t as consistent as in previous years due to dam building upstream, and occasionally, a portion of the journey may need to be performed on foot rather than by boat from February to April, when the river is at its lowest.

Day 10: Mekong River – Pak Beng

Reboard the boat in the morning and travel to the Pak Ou Caves. The venerated Pak Ou Caves is a significant religious location overlooking the river at the confluence of the Mekong and Ou Rivers. They are made up of two holy limestone caverns filled with Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes that faithful people have brought over the years. The lower cave, known as Tham Ting, is plainly visible in the daytime and is accessed from the river by a set of steps. For viewing, a torch is needed at the higher cave, Tham Phum, because it is deeper. Continue to Luang Prabang, which was once the royal capital (approximately 7 hours total journey time). Many tourists like visiting this evocative city, which is included on the World Heritage List. The city is tucked away in the northern Laotian hills at the meeting point of the Mekong and Khan rivers, and according to UNESCO, it is “the best-preserved city in South East Asia.” It’s a lovely spot to walk the streets and visit boutiques, cafes, and tiny shops because the city and its residents still have a sophisticated but laid-back feel. Stay in a hotel tonight, and if you’re up for it, climb Mt. Phousi to see the sunset. It’s a sizable hill that dominates the city’s skyline and is topped with a gleaming golden stupa. For a comprehensive perspective of Luang Prabang and its surroundings, ascend the 328 zigzag stairs to the Phu Si Temple’s large drum and sacred gilded stupa. Spend a free evening at the Night Market shopping.

Accommodation

• Hotel (1 night) Included Activities
• Luang Prabang – Pak Ou Caves Optional Activities
• Luang Prabang – Mt Phu Si – USD2 Meals Included
• Breakfast

Day 11: Luang Prabang

Once the heart and soul of the ancient Lao Kingdom (Lan Xang) and designated a World Heritage site in 1995, Historically significant red-roofed temples and French-Indochinese architecture are among Luang Prabang’s many gifts, along with some of the nation’s most exquisite cuisine, a diverse population, and a rich cultural heritage. This morning, rise with the sun to take in a customary alms-giving ceremony. Observe the daily procession of saffron-robed monks as they gather food presented by followers, a long-standing tradition.The offerings must be gathered before noon because the monks can’t eat later that time. It is thought that by feeding a monk, you “het bon” (create merit) that will carry over into the hereafter. Your leader will assist you to participate in this practice of alms-giving by guiding you through the dos and don’ts. To enjoy breakfast and a free morning, go back to your hotel. Go south of town in the afternoon and stop by Laos Buffalo Dairy for a sweet (socially responsible) treat. This business collaborates with the neighborhood locals by renting their buffalo to manufacture wonderful goods like yogurt, cheese, and ice cream. The Dairy ensures the people have a steady source of income and takes good care of the buffalo and their babies. Why not support this neighborhood company by buying an ice cream? Keep on to the stunning Kuang Si Falls, a scenic, multi-level cascade with incredibly blue pools ideal for a mid-afternoon soak. You’ll have some free time this evening when you return to Luang Prabang to explore further, perhaps stopping by the city’s well-known night market.

Accommodation

• Hotel (1 night) Included Activities
• Luang Prabang – Kuang Si Waterfalls
• Luang Prabang – Alms giving ceremony
• Luang Prabang – Laos Buffalo Dairy social enterprise visit Optional Activities
• Luang Prabang – Night Market – Free Meals Included
• Breakfast

Day 12: Luang Prabang

Experience a beautiful local elephant project this morning in nearby Mandalao to gain new insight and a deeper appreciation of these majestic animals. Discover the enigmatic beauty of the Lao jungle as you wander alongside freshly rescued elephants through their natural environment. This is the ideal opportunity for these content animals to experience freedom after years of arduous labor in logging camps. Start by traveling from Luang Prabang to the town of Xieng Lom (30 minutes), then take a short boat journey across the Nam Khan River to meet your new enormous friends. Feeding them special treats is a surefire way to win their friendship. Then, take a leisurely, healing stroll with them, where you can soak up their calming energy as you stroll along a narrow dirt path past traditional farms and the Huay Nok stream, where you might see elephants splashing around in the water to cool off from the sweltering Lao sun. Say your goodbyes to your new companions and get ready to begin your stroll back to Mandalao. Afternoon: Return to Luang Prabang, where you can spend the remainder of the day at your own pace.

Accommodation

• Hotel (1 night) Included Activities
• Luang Prabang – MandaLao Elephant Conservation trek
• Luang Prabang – Lunch at Manda Lao Elephant Conservation Optional Activities
• Luang Prabang – Royal Theatre – USD20
• Luang Prabang – Wat Xieng Thong – USD2
• Luang Prabang – National Museum – USD4 Meals Included
• Breakfast
• Lunch Special Information

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to follow elephants through the bush, but it can get dirty! Prepare yourself by putting on clothes that you don’t mind getting muddy and wet. There is an option for shoes (rubber boots), which are made specifically for muddy and slick terrain. There are also ponchos and umbrellas provided, along with water, sunscreen, and bug spray.

Day 13: Luang Prabang/ Speed Train Tours going NorthBound

After breakfast, board the Laos Speed Train in Lung Nathan Station and travel to the Oudomsay, Boten border. Lunch, free shopping, and a tour to the Laos-Bosten Border. Return to Muang Xai, Oudomsay, in the afternoon. A night spent exploring Muang Xai. Visit the Hmong settlements nearby. Free evening.

Day 14: Tours North Bound/ Muang Xai to Tay Trang-Laos and Vietnam Border Crossing

Taking a bus in the early morning from Muang Xai, Oudomsay to Sop Hun Border Crossing, Taichang, Laos a 4-hour drive. It can take more than four hours to stop along the way. after entering Vietnam via the border. In Dien Bien Phu, we’ll stay the night. From the Tay Tray border to Dien Bien Phu, the bus travel takes around one hour. You have the evening free to explore Dien Bien Phu.

Historical landmark in Dien Bien Phu, Vietnam.

Day 15: Dien Bien Phu Tours, Vietnam

After breakfast, we will visit famous historical sites in Dien Bien Phu. Dien Bien Phu contains the rich cultural identities of 19 ethnic groups. Historical sites include:

1. Dien Bien Phu Museum,
2. A1 Hill,
3. Hill C1
4. Dien Bien Phu Military Cemetery

With other eastern hills, A1 created a solid shield protecting the central sector of the entrenched camp of Dien Bien Phu, the bunker of General de Castries. From A1, one has a panoramic view of Dien Bien city, other hills like D1, C2, C3, E 1, and E2, the bunker of General de Castries, Muong Thanh airport, A1 field, and A1 cemetery. This base was considered an iron shield to defend the De Castries’ Command Headquarters. For the army of General Vo Nguyen Giap, it was indeed the most difficult to position to attack. Over 56 days and nights of the Dien Bien Phu campaign, the Vietnamese army had to spend 39 days and nights on this hill, sacrificing over 2,000 soldiers, to seize this position.

A1 Hill, which is 500 meters west of the French campaign headquarters at Dien Bien Phu, is 32 meters high, 82 thousand square meters in size. The Vietnamese and French soldiers engaged in their heaviest combat there in 1954.

Day 15: Dien Bien Phu, Vietnam

Visit local villages

UVA Eco-tourism area

Located in Noong Luong commune, Dien Bien district, Dien Bien province, the Uva eco-tourism area is about 15 km southwest of Dien Bien Phu city.

You can swim, fish, or enjoy Ethnic dishes, traditional dances, and songs. You also can be told about a legend of Hoa Cat cord, which is a connection between the sky and ground, the legend about 7 fairies who taught Thai people how to plant mulberries, and textiles.

Muong Lay Town

Muong Lay is some kind of legendary destination for local travelers, who wish to set foot on the most remote soils of the country. Through the years, Muong Lay has changed quite a lot and its beauty is only accreted.

Suffering from two floods of the notorious Da River in the past, Muong Lay was reborn with the inauguration of the Son La Hydropower Plant. The town is on its way to becoming the provincial city of Dien Bien which promises even prosperity and development in the days to come.

The inhabitants in this area, who had seen such tremendous and fatal floods of the river, are deeply moved by the sight of the peaceful, azure water of Son La Reservoir. The two sides of the lake, which are each inhabited by nine different ethnic communities, are connected by a white concrete bridge. These stilt homes are situated along the riversides and have black roofs. The White Thai people are the most noticeable indigenous group in Muong Lay, and thanks to their distinctive traditional attire and genuine traditions, they have grown to become one of the region’s most popular tourist destinations.

Da River

Come to Muong Lay, it’s a pity if you miss a boat trip on Da River or visit an ethnic handicraft village or homestay in a Thai traditional stilt house. Muong Lay is the worthiest destination in Dien Bien, a gem in north Vietnam that is still untouched by tourism.

Day 16: Dien Bien Phu, to Lao Cai, Vietnam

Early in the morning, Lao Cai. Eight hours of driving. In Muong Lay, which is located two hours and twenty minutes to the north of Dien Bien Phu, breakfast will be consumed. We’ll eat lunch in Lai Chau, which is 2:30 hours away from Muong Lay. Lao Chau to Lao Cai travel time is two hours and fifty minutes. Around four o’clock, get there. You have the remainder of the evening to spend discovering Lao Cai after checking in at the hotel. China’s Hekou may be clearly seen from Lao Cai to the north. You are welcome to cross the bridge to the Vietnam-facing border crossing. There are many restaurants and a night market.

Day 17: Lao Cai to Bac Ha market, Vietnam

The Hilltop Mountain Town you haven’t heard of but must see is a drive to Bac Ha district in Lao Cai province in the morning for shopping at Bac Ha market. Since the more well-known, nearby town of Sapa is preferred by most tourists, this is a significant market town for the native Flower Hmong people. This neighborhood is well-known for its Sunday morning ethnic market, where you can observe Northwestern mountain tribes trading native wares and trinkets, including jewelry, shawls, and wood carvings while dressed in vibrant costumes. Hmong people, who make up 50% of Bac Ha’s population, are widely visible. Other minorities include the Tay, Dzao, Tu Zi, Nung, Phula, La Chi, and Lo Lo ethnic groups. You’ll regeret it if you do not spend time there.

Afternoon drive to SaPa, Fansipan, the highest Mountain in Vietnam. 2 hrs and 50 minutes drive. Enjoy the mountain views and villages. Spend the night here. Free evening to explore local shops, and local foods.

Day 18: Fansipan, SaPa, Vietnam

Enjoy the day by taking a cable car up the Vietnamese mountain Fansipan after breakfast. In 1909, the mountain’s height was 3,143 meters. However, it is currently 3,147.3 meters high. It is known as “the Roof of Indochina” because it is the tallest mountain on the Indochinese Peninsula. Fansipan, the highest peak in Vietnam, is at a height of 10,326 feet. The “Roof of Indochina” is now easily accessible in only 15 minutes. This trip is a must-do because to the breathtaking vistas of whirling clouds and forested slopes from Fansipan’s summit. Sapa is covered in blooms from February to May, from the town’s roads to the surrounding hillsides, valleys, and mountain slopes.

Day 19: SaPa, Vietnam

Visit the Hmong local village in SaPa and stay at a Hmong House – Sapa Homestay. To experience local foods.

Day 19: SaPa to Bach Long Glass Bridge (White Dragon), Muong Sang, Vietnam

Early morning to Bach Long Glass Bridge (White Dragon), Mường Sang, Mộc Châu, Sơn La, Vietnam, 8 hrs to 10 hrs drive from SaPa to Bach Long Glass Bridge.
Spend a night on the way.

Day 20: SaPa to Bach Long Glass Bridge (White Dragon), Muong Sang, Vietnam

After breakfast, morning ride to Bach Long Glass Bridge (White Dragon), Mường Sang, Mộc Châu, Sơn La. Spend this afternoon here. Visit local Hmong villages, and try local foods. Spend the night here. Free evening.

Day 21: Bach Long Glass Bridge (White Dragon), Hanoi, Vietnam

Early morning depart to Hanoi. About 5 hrs drive to Hanoi, an afternoon touring Hanoi City and historical sites in the city. Spend the night in Hanoi. Free evening, to explore the night market.

Day 22: Hanoi City Tour, Vietnam

You may either get up early and go out for Hanoi’s typical breakfast, Pho, or you can have breakfast at the hotel. Later, meet your guide at the designated hour to start your tour of Hanoi’s sights. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda, and the Stilt House are all visible. The most captivating experience today is a rickshaw trip through the crowded and chaotic Hanoi Old Quarter. You can still see the 15th-century buildings on the bustling streets. Visit the Ngoc Son temple, take in a traditional water puppet show, and then meander around Hoan Kiem Lake.

Day 23: Halong Bay Vietnam

Breakfast is served at the motel. After that, take a private transfer for a cruise in Halong Bay (approximately 3.5 hours). Spend the afternoon on a cruise around Halong Bay’s calcite islets. The flooded karst landform’s magnificent natural scenery will be visible to you. While on board, you can partake in optional activities like kayaking, swimming, and diving to improve your cruise experience.

Day 24: Halong Bay, Vietnam

If you’d like, you can rise early and go to the Tai Chi class. Take a trip to the Thien Canh Son cave after a light breakfast to witness the breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites. Around noon, the junk boat will dock at the pier, where your personal guide will greet you and drive you to the airport to catch your flight to Da Nang. When you arrive, your tour guide will pick you up and drive you to Hoi An. After settling into your accommodation, take some time to stroll through the old town of Hoi An to discover more about its fascinating past.

Day 25: Da Nang, Vietnam

The Golden Bridge, also known as Cu Vàng in Vietnamese, is a 150-meter (490-foot) long pedestrian bridge located in the Bà Nà Hills resort outside of Da Nang. West of the city of Da Nang in the Truong Son Mountains, in the center of Vietnam, is a hill station and resort called Ba Na Hill Station. Theme park features thrilling coasters, a cable car, and a Golden Bridge that offers sweeping mountain vistas. The French first came to this resort in the Ba Na Hills in the late nineteenth century. Numerous sizable villas, sports facilities, and a variety of eateries have been constructed here. The land in front of this location is covered in bananas, hence the name “Ba Na.” The hill station is 1,485 meters (4,872 ft) above sea level.

Day 26: Da Nang to Ho Chi Ming City, Vietnam

Transport you to the Da Nang airport in time for your early-morning departure to Ho Chi Minh City. You have the day off to relax or wander the city as you please.

Day 27: Ho Chi Minh City Tour, Vietnam

 Ho Chi Minh City Exploration

As you tour the Cu Chi Tunnels, the War Remnants Museum, and the Reunification Palace today, you’ll discover more about the history and culture of Ho Chi Minh City (the former Presidential Palace). You will also view some of the city’s top attractions, such as the Ben Thanh Market, Dong Khoi Street, Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, and Old Saigon Post Office.

Day 28: Mekong Delta Cruise, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Mekong Delta Cruise

Go to My Tho today to take a full-day tour of the Mekong Delta. When you get in My Tho, check out a wholesale fruit market. Next, go on a boat tour to four stunning islets on the Tien River. Along the journey, you’ll travel across fruit plantations and fishing communities.

Take a short stroll to Vuondau for fruits and honey tea once you reach An Khanh Village. After that, row a boat to Quedua and stop by a candy-making facility for coconuts. To go to a riverfront restaurant for lunch, travel across the countryside in a horse-drawn carriage. Take a private drive return to Ho Chi Minh City after indulging in some local specialties including Elephant Fish, making a stop at the Vinh Trang pagoda along route.

Day 29: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City – Departure 
 Enjoy a leisurely morning. Later you will be escorted to the airport for your flight home.

Day 30: Arrive at Home

Welcome back home to the USA.

Tour Package

30 days
$4,695.00 per person
Want your own room? From an extra $740

Inclusions
Meals
25 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 2 dinners
Transport
Boat, Long tail boat, Overnight sleeper train, Plane, Private minibus, Public bus, Accommodation
Guesthouse, Hotel, Overnight Boat (1 night), Overnight sleeper train (2 nights)

Exclusion

International Airline Tickets from the USA to Bangkok
VISA
Travel Insurance
Person expenses