Taste of Thailand with Vietnam extension
April 21-28, 2025 | Bangkok/Phuket
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with optional extension
April 28-May 3, 2025 | Vietnam from Phuket to Ho Chi Min/Hanoi Vietnam
On arrival in Bangkok, you will be welcomed by a representative at the arrival hall and transferred to the hotel for check-in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Well known as the City of Angels, Krungthepmahanakorn (Bangkok) is the present capital city and the focal point of Thailand. It was made the capital of Thailand in 1782, the first monarch of the present Chakri Dynasty. It is a vibrant city, a national treasure house, and Thailand’s spiritual, cultural, political, commercial, educational, and diplomatic enter with endless choices of sightseeing and entertainment opportunities. In addition to the many temples and historic buildings, such as The Grand Palace and Wat Arun, the list of interesting places to visit is endless. There are numerous canal (klong) networks, the Chaophraya River, giving it the name of “Venice of the East”. In Bangkok, there are also bustling markets, Jim Thompson’s House, Chatuchak Weekend Market, Wat Po, Wat Benjamorpit, and Mahboonkrong Shopping Centre.
Thailand Land Package Only Thailand & Vietnam Land Package Only
Land (Double Occupancy) $2,650 per person Thailand w/ Vietnam Land (Double (Occupancy) $4,285p/p
Land (Single Occupancy) $3,751 per person Thailand w/ Vietnam Land (Single (Occupancy) $5,836 p/p
Prices are based presented with land only.
Land airport transfers are based on guests who arrive and leave the same time as the group.
Regional Group Air from Bangkok to Phuket (included)
Group flight from Phuket to Saigon, Vietnam (quoted separately)
• Flight from Bangkok to Phuket – rates subject to change, I NEED PASSPORT COPIES TO BOOK AIR
** International flight from USA to Bangkok and from Phuket back to the USA (on own)
*** International flight from USA to Bangkok and from Hanoi back to the USA (on own)
****Air from Phuket to Saigon will be quoted separately so we can travel as a group.
Please note that April 19 or April 20th is USA departure day and April 28th is the official end of the Thailand portion of trip. The Vietnam extension begins on April 28 and ends of May 3, 2025 and when most will depart. Arrival time in the USA will depend on the flight schedule. Most will arrive back in USA on April 29th for Thailand return and May 4th, 2025 for Vietnam portion. All guests must arrive in Bangkok no later than April 21, 2025 to join the group.
Minimum Payment Schedule. (you can pay more than minimum if you wish)
Deposit due with Registration
Thailand Land $500.00 per person (non-refundable)
Thailand & Vietnam Land $750.00 per person (non-refundable)
* Second payment - before August 1, 2024
Thailand Land $500.00 per person
Thailand & Vietnam Land $750.00 per person
* Third payment - before October 1, 2024
Thailand Land $500.00 per person
Thailand & Vietnam Land $750.00 per person
Land Final Payment January 12, 2025
IMPORTANT:
Due to record number of travellers to many attractions have restricted access, restrictions of volume of visitors, and the late release of tickets. Please advise your clients that some entrance tickets cannot be guaranteed until the group is finalized and are subject to availability at late release dates. For some visits, an earlier payment to that of our final payment date may be required for tickets. We will try our utmost to secure all tickets for your group, but please note this situation is beyond our control.
Pre-approval for Visa on Arrival: The Government of Vietnam has authorized some businesses and travel agencies to arrange for pre-approval for a “visa on arrival” at the airport. However, some U.S. citizens have reported being charged unexpectedly high fees and additional charges upon landing in Vietnam. The Government of Vietnam and the U.S. Department of State recommend that travelers obtain a visa directly from an embassy or consulate of Vietnam prior to arrival.
E-visa: U.S. citizens can apply online for a single-entry E-visa on the Vietnam Immigration website. The E-visa is valid for a maximum of 30 days, single entry, and does not allow for renewal or extension from within the country. An E-visa is usually processed within three working days after the Vietnam Immigration Department receives the completed application and E-visa fee. E-visa holders must present the printed E-visa and valid passport at the port of entry. Prior to making travel arrangements with an E-visa it is advisable to review the List of Ports of Entry that allow for foreigners to enter and exit Vietnam by E-visa. When applying for an E-visa, carefully review and follow the E-visa application steps.
*applies to US passport holders only.
USA | April 19 or 20, 2025| Departure Day
Departure: USA on April 19 or 20 2025
Arrive: Bangkok, Thailand April 21, 2025
(international air not included)
Bangkok | April 21 | Day 1 | Monday (D)
On arrival in Bangkok, you will be welcomed by a representative at the arrival hall and transferred to hotel for check in and enjoy rest of the day at leisure.
Well known as the City of Angels, Krungthepmahanakorn (Bangkok) is the present capital city and the focal point for Thailand. It was made the capital of Thailand in 1782, the first monarch of the present Chakri Dynasty. It is a vibrant city, a national treasure house and Thailand’s spiritual, cultural, political, commercial, educational and diplomatic enter with endless choice of sightseeing and entertainment opportunities. In add ition to the many temples and historic buildings, such as The Grand Palace and Wat Arun, the list of interesting places to visit is endless. There are numerous canal (klong) networks, the Chaophraya River, giving it the name of “Venice of the East”. In Bangkok, are also bustling markets, Jim Thompson’s House, Chatuchak Weekend Market, Wat Po, Wat Benjamorpit and Mahboonkrong Shopping Centre.
Evening Tour Saffron Luxury Dinner Cruise (Private transfer with join dinner cruise)
Saffron Cruise, a two-storey vessel cruising the grand Chao Phraya River, includes an alfresco floating bar ‘Moon Deck’ on the upper-level echoed Banyan Tree Bangkok’s award-winning Moon Bar and a secluded air-conditioned dining saloon on the lower level where guests revel in the mixture of delectable Thai specialties and the impressive landscape. Approximately 19.00 hrs. at ICON Siam Pier 2, embark on luxury Saffron Cruise where your magical night begins. Be welcomed with a cocktail at Moon Deck rooftop bar. Cruise on the river of king as the sky darkens and the city of angels illuminates itself, passing landmark after landmark along both side of the riverbanks. Enjoy a 4-course signature Saffron set dinner with on-board ambience including background music. There is a variety of beverages available for purchase on board. The cruise will disembark at the ICON Siam pier and finish your unforgettable night.—————————————————
Bangkok | April 22 | Day 2 | Tuesday (B)(D)
Morning Tour Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Start an early morning with a visit to the Railway Market, and witness the train running through the heart of the market while vendors begin to move their goods away from tracks. On the way stop for a short visit to a local coconut farm, and see how they produce different products, for example freshly cooked coconut palm sugar. There are countless floating markets throughout Thailand, but the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is the most famous. Situated 110 km from Bangkok in Ratchaburi province, you will take a long tail boat ride through the canals and witness the local communities along the riverbank before visiting the floating market at Damoen Saduak. At the market, you can walk around and see colorful-clad merchants paddle along congested canals in sturdy canoes laden with fresh fruit, vegetables, local foods, and tourist souvenirs to sell to shoppers on the canal banks. Buy some local snacks, enjoy the view of the many boats find their way along the canals and locals interact with tourists. There is lots of activity and bargaining is part of the fun of the sale.
Itinerary Summary
Standing in the heart of the city, SO/ Bangkok invites locals and travelers alike to enjoy style and design in a soulful setting. Take a moment for yourself with stunning city skyline views, or soak up the social buzz of the city in one of our atmospheric bars.
Accommodation; So Bangkok - So Cosy Room
Bed and Breakfast
Bangkok | April 23 | Day 3 | Wednesday (B)
Day at Leisure:
How about a VIP day at the movies.
Itinerary Summary
Check in at Mövenpick Myth Hotel Patong Phuket
An inspiring landmark on Phuket’s western shores, Mövenpick Myth Hotel Patong Phuket transports guests back in time to an era of elegance, refinement and style. Weaving King Rama V’s legacy with the island’s Sino-Portuguese history, the hotel is a celebration of Thailand’s cultural diversity. Standing tall within one of Patong’s most spirited and vibrant roads, Mövenpick Myth Hotel Patong Phuket is truly a pampering, delightful hotel that exudes both character and luxury. With 235 luxury hotel rooms and suites, an art-deco inspired restaurant and lobby bar, and a free-form swimming pool, Mövenpick Myth Hotel Patong Phuket is truly a gem that aims to invigorate the senses and the imagination of our guests.
Bangkok/Phuket | April 24 | Day 4 | Thursday
Depart Bangkok
Arrive: Phuket
Check in at
Mövenpick Myth Hotel Patong Phuket (B) (L)
Tour Phuket Elephant Sanctuary (Private transfer with Join activities Basis)
Pick-up from your hotel and transfer to meeting points of Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. A morning or afternoon with the elephants is an eye-opening and inspiring experience. Following a scenic drive along a local village you will arrive at Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, a picturesque jungle dotted with ponds, wide open fields and hillsides for the elephants to roam around. Your visit starts at our Tree Top Reception and Observation Platform, where they will show you a presentation and educational video to prepare you for your encounter with the elephants, and to help you understand why they need to be protected. Next up, you will feed the elephants. While they enjoy their baskets of bananas, pineapples and cucumbers, you have a chance to learn from our passionate guides about the background of each elephant. Once the elephants are fed you walk with them down into the jungle. By keeping a safe distance and watching them from the observation Salas, the elephants have the freedom to express their natural behavior, from bathing and playing in the pond to socializing with each other. Enjoy a delicious vegetarian/vegan Thai buffet at the Tree Top Reception platform with time to rest, relax and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the sanctuary. After lunch or dinner, return to the meeting point, from where you will be transferred back to your hotel.
The priority of the sanctuary is the wellbeing of the elephants. As such, we do not offer rides, shows, bathing, trunk hugging, elephant kisses, sitting on or lying on the elephants, loud noise, or people crowding around the elephants.
Phuket | April 25 | Day 5 | Friday (B) (L)
Tour Phi Phi Island by Speedboat (Join Basis)
For those who prefer a speedier trip than those offered by the larger, slower, boat cruises, this excursion takes guests on an island hoping trip that takes in the larger Phi Phi Don and the smaller Phi Phi Ley islands. Phi Phi Ley was the setting for the Hollywood film “The Beach”, which was shot mainly at the picturesque Maya Bay. At Phi Phi Don discover the amazing limestone cliffs, long sandy beaches and the clear emerald water. You will have a chance to stop in front of Viking Cave or Monkey Beach, snorkel over the amazing reefs that are abundant with colorful tropical fish and then enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant. Back to the sea and visit the idyllic and secluded Bamboo Beach or Rang Yai Island where you can swim or simply relax on the beach and take in the sights. After you soak in the sun and make your skin tanned, it’s time to cruise back to Phuket and get a good proper rest you deserved.
Overnight in Phuket.
Phuket | April 26 | Day 6 | Saturday (B) (L)
Tour Discover Phang Nga Bay by Speedboat (Join Basis)
Pick up from the hotel in Phuket and transfer to the Boat Lagoon pier, where you board on the speedboat to Phang Nga Ba, offering many different perspectives of the scenery. Exploring Hong Island, one of the most beautiful islands along the Andaman coast. As you approach from the sea the towering limestone formation & crystal clear waters inspire images of a deserted dream island get away. Peley beach on the island boasts fine powder sand. Koh Hong’s name come from the Thai world “HONG” which translates as “room”. In the middle of this beautiful island there lies a hidden lagoon. These majestic rocks rise dramatically out of the sea and are interspersed with mangroves and fascinating hidden caves. There is the opportunity to get up close to the caves by a guided sea canoe and by long tail boat. En–route a visit is made to the renowned James Bond Island, the location for “The Man with the Golden Gun” and countless other movies. A trip to the floating sea gypsy village of Koh Panyi is our next stop. This village is notable for being built on stilts at the end of the 18th century by nomadic fisherman and above all there’s a floating football field unique on its own location. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
Overnight in Phuket.
Phuket | April 27 | Day 7 | Sunday (B)
Day at Leisure.
Phuket | April 28 | Day 8 | Monday (B)
Return to USA
or Extend to Vietnam
Transfer to Phuket Airport
Thailand w/ Vietnam Land
Land (Double Occupancy) $4,285 p/p
Land (Single Occupancy) $5,836 p/p
Prices are based presented with land only.
Land airport transfers are based on guests who arrive and leave the same time as the group.
Regional Group Air from Bangkok to Phuket (included)
Group flight from Phuket to Saigon, Vietnam (quoted separately)
• Flight from Bangkok to Phuket – rates subject to change, I NEED PASSPORT COPIES TO BOOK AIR
** International flight from USA to Bangkok and from Phuket back to the USA (on own)
*** International flight from USA to Bangkok and from Hanoi back to the USA (on own)
****Air from Phuket to Saigon will be quoted separately so we can travel as a group.
Please note that April 19 or April 20th is USA departure day and April 28th is the official end of the Thailand portion of trip. The Vietnam extension begins on April 28 and ends of May 3, 2025 and when most will depart. Arrival time in the USA will depend on the flight schedule. Most will arrive back in USA on April 29th for Thailand return and May 4th, 2025 for Vietnam portion. All guests must arrive in Bangkok no later than April 21, 2025 to join the group.
Pre-approval for Visa on Arrival: The Government of Vietnam has authorized some businesses and travel agencies to arrange for pre-approval for a “visa on arrival” at the airport. However, some U.S. citizens have reported being charged unexpectedly high fees and additional charges upon landing in Vietnam. The Government of Vietnam and the U.S. Department of State recommend that travelers obtain a visa directly from an embassy or consulate of Vietnam prior to arrival.
E-visa: U.S. citizens can apply online for a single-entry E-visa on the Vietnam Immigration website. The E-visa is valid for a maximum of 30 days, single entry, and does not allow for renewal or extension from within the country. An E-visa is usually processed within three working days after the Vietnam Immigration Department receives the completed application and E-visa fee. E-visa holders must present the printed E-visa and valid passport at the port of entry. Prior to making travel arrangements with an E-visa it is advisable to review the List of Ports of Entry that allow for foreigners to enter and exit Vietnam by E-visa. When applying for an E-visa, carefully review and follow the E-visa application steps.
*applies to US passport holders only.
IMPORTANT:
Due to record number of travellers to many attractions have restricted access, restrictions of volume of visitors, and the late release of tickets. Please advise your clients that some entrance tickets cannot be guaranteed until the group is finalized and are subject to availability at late release dates. For some visits, an earlier payment to that of our final payment date may be required for tickets. We will try our utmost to secure all tickets for your group, but please note this situation is beyond our control.
INCLUDED in your land only purchase price
Inclusions in above prices:
• 4+* hotel accommodation as per itinerary based on twin share
• All transfers and transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle (One Group transfer meeting one flight only on arrival and departure is included.)
• Services of a qualified English speaking guides
• Arrival Meet & Greet assistance
• Entrance fees as per the itinerary
• Government/local taxes at existing rates.
NOT INCLUDED (International Airfare sold separately)
Exclusions:
· Personal items
· International Air
· Tips & Gratuities
· Travel Insurance
· Visa/passport handling fees
· Meals unless listed in the itinerary and all drinks
· Early check-in & late check-out of rooms (standard check-in time is 2 pm and check out 10 am)
· Any increase in Government or local taxes
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All prices are subject to change before deposit.
*** All deposits after August 1, 2024, require the non-refundable deposit in addition to payments due based on the payment schedule
**** In the event one of the guests in a shared room does not attend the remaining guest is responsible for the single supplement should one be required.
Vietnam extension
Saigon after dark by Vespa (Private) 18:00 – 22:00
Late afternoon, your personal driver will be waiting at your hotel lobby to meet and greet for join in street food tour by Vespa. Experience the local nightlife and enjoy tasty food and live music as we ride pillion on vintage Vespas along the busy streets of this vibrant city. See Saigon come alive at night on this after dark adventure!
Immerse yourself into the cosmopolitan nightlife of this busy city by night. Soak up the energy of this urban metropolis at a top-ranking stylish rooftop venue of Saigon in central city location where we sip on our first drinks and try out some tasty snacks while watching the sunset Saigon from the above. Your expert driver will then zoom through the busy streets of Saigon as you check out some of the famous highlights in this bustling city. Feel like a local as we feast on authentic, fresh seafood dishes, eating streetside and then enjoy the local favourite that is the delicious Banh Xeo, a traditional Vietnamese savoury pancake. We then ride off into the night again to experience live music at two very different venues. Firstly, the laid-back atmosphere of quieter, softly lit coffee shop with live music before heading to another live music venue where a new generation of Vietnamese flaunt their style. Bring a healthy appetite and a sense of adventure as our guides show you their city by night.
Travel Itinerary -Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Orchid Trendy Cruise & Halong
April 28 - May 3, 2025
Phuket/Ho Chi Minh City | April 28 | Day 8 | Tuesday - Vietnam Extension (D)
Flight to Ho Chi Minh City is not included. Upon arrival at Ho Chi Minh City, meet your guide and transfer to hotel in the city center. Check in and relax.
Itinerary Summary
Check in at Grand Saigon Hotel
Be one of the historic hotels nearly a century in Ho Chi Minh City, the Hotel Grand Saigon still retains its untouched French architecture. Standing by the tranquil streets of Dong Khoi – Ho Huan Nghiep – Ngo Duc Ke and right next to the Saigon River, the hotel is a lovely destination for stroll and exploration surroundings.
Mekong Delta | April 29 | Day 9 | Wednesday - Vietnam (B) (L)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Today’s tour will begin at 08:00. Leave the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City and drive deep into the Mekong Delta on this Cai Be day tour. Upon arriving in Cai Be, board a private boat and start exploring the Delta. Pass by trading boats laden with fresh produce while cruising past river islands, coconut groves, and fish farms. Go ashore at small family-run workshops making local specialties such as rice popcorn and coconut candy. After this introduction to the Mekong Delta, get a closer look at the lives of its residents. Take a short walk through a local village and flourishing fruit gardens. Arrive at the home of Mr. Kiet and his family. The house has been lived in by more than four generations and is a great example of traditional ‘Mandarin’ architecture. A delicious home-cooked Vietnamese meal will be served for lunch in the family’s house. Then take a walk through their fruit orchard to see the fresh seasonal fruits on the trees. Say farewell to the host family and continue to Tan Phong Island. Take a local rowboat through the narrow canals around the island, appreciating the tranquillity and lush landscapes of this part of the Delta. Return to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City at approximately 17:30.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch
Ho Chi Minh City | April 30 | Day 10 | Thursday - Vietnam (B) (L)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Today’s tour will begin at 08:00. After breakfast drive away from the city centre toward the Cu Chi district. Leaving the city behind, the scenery changes to views of rice paddies, villagers drying noodles by the side of the road and other scenes typical to southern Vietnam.
Arrive at the entrance of the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, an incredible underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters (Viet Cong) during both the French and American wars. Hear the tales of how these tunnels were built while walking through the forest.
After this morning’s Cu Chi Tunnels tour, return to the city centre in time for lunch. Then take a closer look at the city itself, starting at Reunification Hall.
The final stop of the day is Ben Thanh market. Located in the heart of the city, this market is one of the liveliest in the area. Rub shoulders with the locals while browsing the countless stalls selling fruits, tea and dry goods.
Ho Chi Minh City | May 1 | Day 11 | Friday (B)
08:30 Your guide will meet you at the lobby of your hotel and transfer you to Noi Bai Airport for your flight towards Hanoi.
Luggage restriction:
23 kg checked baggage.
Upon arrival at Hanoi - Noi Bai airport, look for your tour guide holding a signboard with your name on it. Then meet with your driver for a 45-min private transfer to your hotel in the center. Hanoi is Vietnam's modern-day capital. Classic, colonial architecture, distinctive cuisine, and a millennium of history and culture give Hanoi her elegance.
Lunch is under your own arrangement.
Ho Chi Minh City | May 01 | Day 11 | Thursday (B)
08:30 Your guide will meet you at the lobby of your hotel and transfer you to Noi Bai Airport for your flight towards Hanoi.
Luggage restriction:
23 kg checked baggage.
Upon arrival at Hanoi - Noi Bai airport, look for your tour guide holding a signboard with your name on it. Then meet with your driver for a 45-min private transfer to your hotel in the center. Hanoi is Vietnam's modern-day capital. Classic, colonial architecture, distinctive cuisine, and a millennium of history and culture give Hanoi her elegance.
Lunch is under your own arrangement.
Today’s tour begins at 14:00. Set off on a half day guided tour of Hanoi’s highlights. Start your afternoon tour to visit Ho Chi Minh complex, at exterior Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (closed Mon; Fri; all afternoons – outside visiting) See locals paying homage to this historic figure and ‘father’ of modern Vietnam. Take a short walk to his house on stilts, where he lived from 1958 to 1969. Walk around the tranquil grounds, learning about Ho Chi Minh’s life and legacy. Proceed next to visit One Pillar pagoda, built in 1049, is one of Vietnam’s most iconic temples.
Finally a walk through the Old Quarter, learning about Vietnam’s traditional ways of life while crossing the maze of streets and lanes. Continue walking through busy Hang Be Market and around Hoan Kiem Lake. Snap some photos and chat with the locals on the way.
Check in at Silk Path Hotel
The Silk Path journey began in 2010 with Silk Path Hotel Hanoi, the city’s first four-star hotel in the center of Hanoi. We soon became one of the most cherished names in Hanoi hospitality.
Steeped in a millennium of rich history, Hanoi stands as a city with enduring character. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the Old Quarter streets, each alley echoing tales from a bygone era. Alternatively, embrace the timeless allure of the French Quarter, where history unfolds in every architectural detail. As you savor a cup of Vietnamese coffee, lose yourself in the moments of tranquility, surrounded by the captivating stories woven into the fabric of this ancient capital
Hanoi/Halong | May 02 | Day 14 | Friday (B)(L)(D)
After breakfast, transfer to Tuan Chau Mariana, to embark on the junk. Upon arrival on board, check – in and enjoy the welcome drink before cruising and exploring Halong Bay - one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Lunch on board before continuing the journey to Trung Trang Cave by bus on Cat Ba Island. Then, the cruise enters an open, sparsely populated area at Tra Bau - Lan Ha Bay. Please enjoy a nice swim in the green, emerald water here. Return to the boat to enjoy the magnificent view over the Gulf of Tonkin. Then savor a deluxe dinner made with the freshest ingredients in a sophisticated space with elegant French neoclassical style and traditional oriental touches. End the day with a chance to squid fishing if you want.
Dinner and overnight on board.
Includes: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Check in at Orchid Trendy Cruise
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite sense of mere tranquil existence, that I neglect my talents.
Halong - Hanoi - Departure | May 03 | Day 15 | Saturday (B/BR)
In the early morning, delight in an invigorating Tai Chi session on the sundeck before breakfast. After breakfast, continue the journey and explore the bay with kayaking activity in the Ao Ech area. A brunch will be served before disembarking at the pier by 11:30.
Please note your vessels itinerary is subject to change at short notice and is dependent on weather and tidal conditions. If weather conditions are deemed unsafe, the harbor master may deny departure and you will be re-accommodated with the best alternative ground services available.
Your guide will meet and transfer you back to Noi Bai Airport. The driving distance is approximately 2.5 hours.
Suggested departure flight: In the late afternoon/evening from 17:00 onwards.