Luxury Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & Mekong River Cruise & Cycle 9D8N, Fully Guided

Level 1, Approx. 24 km (15 miles), 1-2 hours biking, Elevation gain: 30 m (100 ft)

On the first day of the trip, you meet with your tour leaders today at Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao Hotel, Luang Prabang at 9:30 a.m. Make sure to come in your biking clothes, daypack, everything else you might need for this trip and your luggage, which will be conveyed to our first night’s accommodation.

First we snack on a special light local delicacy right in Luang Prabang, a World Heritage town with a beautiful combination of Laotian and European monuments that have been carefully maintained overtime. Then your trip leaders, introduce our National guides, fit your bike and give you a brief talk on biking safety and techniques before we head out.

We set out on a rousing ride along winding roads through rural settlements all the way to the central part of Luang Prabang- an experience to help get you accustomed to the peculiar biking conditions of Southeast Asia. Lunch break is at the north-wing of the peninsula where Luang Prabang is situated; from where you can enjoy vast immaculate views of the Mekong River as you equally enjoy a delightful lunch of Laos’s exclusive and exquisite cuisine. Guided by our leader, we go on to tour the legendary Wat Xieng Thong, a Buddhist temple of great historical and religious significance.

Later in the afternoon, we retreat to the lavish Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao, a 5-star serene resort located on the lush Phou Vao Hills, and our home for the next two nights. Savour the tranquility at the sculpted grounds give way to endless cloud forest. Revive in the freshwater infinity pool, teetering on the cliff edge, or indulge in the Mekong Spa.

Afterwards, relish delectable Al-fresco French-inspired meals in the elegant La Résidence's Mountain Terrace. Enjoy a hearty reception and a toast to an amazing week ahead.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 32 km (20 miles), 1-2 hours biking, Elevation gain: 183 m (600 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 51 km (32 miles), 3-5 hours biking, Elevation gain: 244 m (800 ft)

Energized by a sumptuous breakfast, we proceed on an exceptional local boat ride down the Mekong River all the way to the legendary Kuang Si waterfall for a blissful experience as we walk down the series of cascades that make up its unique features.

With our bikes, we cycle down tranquil roads, through aesthetically eccentric villages that offer uncommon visions of the modern and rural worlds blended together in an inspiring way as we return to Luang Prabang. As the afternoon rolls in, you might want to relax and rewind with a cocktail in hand by the La Residence's cool poolside and book a therapeutic session in the soothing spa or take a walk through Luang Prabang's lively centre and other worthy attractions in the locality.

At dusk, just before dinner, step out to catch the mystifying voices of monks as they perform their evening chants; it feels truly enchanting to hear the voices resound through the neighborhood, indicating the close of a glorious day. An appetizing dinner with your tour leaders awaits in Manda De Laos, one of the choicest restaurants in town, located in a tranquil atmosphere overlooking lily pad on a UNESCO classified pond, featuring distinguished Laotian Family Cuisine specialty from all regions of Laos.

This morning we start out before the sun rises to capture a magical moment of numerous monks in saffron robes matching out admirably for their daily ritual of collecting alms from other faithful Buddhists.

We then proceed to climb up to the very peak of Phou Si, a hallowed mountain, to see a spectacular view of nature, of karsts precipices beyond and over the peninsula through the morning mist, a picture-perfect screen. Having descended back to town, we venture into the bubbling morning market for a thorough exploration of all that can be savoured; an appetizing experience just before a delicious breakfast at the hotel.

Prepared for a real-time breathtaking experience, we set out to an absolutely contrasting world of remains of a once powerful empire, almost destitute rural settlements that survived the years of Khmer Rouge and a rowdy company of a fast growing Siem Reap as well as a continuous stream of tourists flooding the famous ruins. We bike through the less-crowded settlements to escape the ever-rowdy situation to the best of our abilities as we enjoy equally eye-catching sceneries.

We continue our electrifying ride to the elegant Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor, Siem Reap, our 5-star refuge for the night. A hotel praised by Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler as one of the world's top hotels. This magnificent resort has been perfectly restored to its 1930s glory and embodies a park-like setting. Check into your luxurious room and take the rest of the evening to wander around the property or go on to explore the town's vibrant centre.

Afterwards, treat yourself to a flavorful dinner in any restaurant of your choice or one recommended by your leaders. Done with dinner, turn in and be sure to rest well through the night as you have a long day of exhilarating experiences ahead.

Note: We will to the best of our abilities make sure a midday flight from Luang Prabang to Siem Reap is secured. However, Lao Airlines and Cambodia Angkor Air often reschedule flights without warning. Should this be the case, we might be Leaving Luang Prabang a little earlier or later than expected. Meanwhile, as much as we will be trailing a direct route when we can, know that we might stop by Bangkok when needed. As for the extra time created whenever our flight schedule is changed, be rest assured that we'll be maximizing it to the fullest in Luang Prabang.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 35 km (22 miles), 2-3 hours biking, Elevation gain: 152 m (500 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 47 km (29 miles), 3-5 hours biking, Elevation gain: 30 m (100 ft)

Today, we ride out through a less traversed route for a more thrilling experience as we approach Angkor for an exceptional see-sight of the many intriguing temples like Ta Prohm and Bayon.

We shuttle from Siem Reap to the Ta Prohm complex. You'll see how much of a wonder Ta Prohm has turned out to be over time; hardly renovated, this edifice has retained its natural essence so much that the jungle covering the structures instead of breaking the complex apart, have helped to hold it together and add up to its distinctive features.

Later, we hop on our bikes and cycle through rural localities and along littered roads; the serene side of Siem Reap. Get ready to be warmly welcomed by the villagers, particularly the children as they seldomly see tourists especially on bicycles.

We get hosted to an exceptional lunch in a private apartment belonging to our local friends and get refreshed for our adventure to Bayon. Famous for its fascinating bas-reliefs and gigantic smiling-faces on stones, Bayon houses a great deal of captivating attractions. You might want to stop by the way for a water blessing; it is believed by the locals that this ceremonious ritual brings good luck.

On our way back to the comfort of our homely hotel, you might want to pay a visit to Wat Thmey, a memorial that tells the gloomy genocidal experience that broke down Cambodia in the 1970s.

At the hotel, take your time to relax with all of the luxury amenities at your fingertips; spoil yourself to a calming spa treatment or chill out by the hotel pool with its Angkor Wat ancient bath formation. Take an adventure with a stroll around town to shop and explore to the fullest Siem Reap's central markets. Later tonight, we savour the flavours of delectable Khmer cuisine.

Note: Siem Reap's weather can be on the hot side and to make biking adequately comfortable and pleasurable, little adjustments may be made in our itinerary through the ruins. In the extremely hot seasons, we may visit in the morning or late afternoon when it's a bit cooler.

Level 1, Approx. 21 km (13 miles), 1-2 hours biking, Elevation gain: minimal

As the sun rises, we set out to Angkor Wat for a guided walk tour through the immaculate temple grounds with a local friend. This amazing site beams with life as the morning sun lights up the age-old carvings and as we listen to the history of Cambodia and the ruins. After absorbing it all, we cycle to catch a glimpse of the ruins as we go back to the hotel for breakfast.

Fueled up, we shuttle to the Siem Reap airport for an exhilarating flight all the way to the stunning Phnom Penh, the majestic capital of the country. Reaching Phnom Penh, settle into your room in our opulent refuge for the night, Raffles Hotel Le Royal, a 5-star hotel harmonizing luxury with old-charm charm. Unwind with a drink at its exquisite Writer’s Bar or relax at the Poolside Terrace.

Alternatively, those in pursue for adventure can embark on an exciting three-wheeler, tuk tuk, adventure around the bustling city, later in the evening. Notice the indications of a not-so modern existence even in the midst of countless classical locations and vibrant newly constructed buildings which surely reminds us of all the strife and delayed development and conflict that this country has survived in time past.

Tonight, gather for a ravishing dinner at the hotel's elegant restaurant and spend time at its renowned Elephant Bar for its signature colonial decor.

Note: There are chances of our airline making an impromptu change to the flight schedule, such as a time adjustment, stop over or rescheduling for the next day. Once more, thank you for your patience and kind tolerance.

Level 1, Approx. 18 km (11 miles), 1-2 hours biking, Elevation gain: 30 m (100 ft)

This morning, we transfer to the port to board the grand British Colonial-style Heritage Line ship for an ecstatic experience cruising on the Mekong River. This majestic ship also serves our princely home for another three nights.

We journey east towards Vietnam as we engage in a discussion on the history of modern Khmer. Vietnam's Mekong coastal plain entails distinctive details that are eye-catching known as the "Rice bowl" of the country. It might interest you to know that the Mekong plays very significant roles in farming, transportation and food trade for a larger percentage of the population.

As the ship cruises for most of the day, exploit the time to read a book while relaxing on the Sun Deck, or pamper yourself to a soothing massage or simply join an enlightening cooking class aboard. Formalities while crossing at the border shouldn't under normal circumstances take time but occasionally, it might take a little more time.

On arrival in Vietnam in the afternoon, we go on a thrilling tour of our first location just outside Tan Chau village. Take a brief stirring spin into town through mini-road lining the numerous waterways that are peculiar to this region.

Thereafter, your leaders get you familiarized with the exquisiteness of Vietnamese cuisine over one of our best 'street food' in a famous barbecue restaurant where we will dine and chat with other locals. When all is said and done, hop aboard the tender back to the ship for a full mouthwatering dinner before retiring into your cozy bed for the night.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 16 km (10 miles), 1-2 hours biking, Elevation gain: minimal
Level 1, Approx. 24 km (15 miles), 1-2 hours biking, Elevation gain: 30 m (100 ft)
Level 2, Approx. 39 km (24 miles), 2-3 hours biking, Elevation gain: 30 m (100 ft)

After an energizing Tai chi class, we disembark in a small tender and then hop on your bike for a truly elating ride through Tan Chau. First, we cycle enthusiastically through Tan Chau's back streets in the morning on roads that offer quaint sceneries that shuffle between ancient and modern, rural and urban. Next, we bike through an enchanting cultural Vietnamese setting all the way to the surrounding rice fields.

An amazingly elaborate stretch of rice fields sprawls before your eyes as you cycle out of town. As you ride down a road you'll share with local cyclists going about their daily business, look out for a stunning view of fishermen casting their nets for a catch in the mini-canals around. With all of the rural-kind-of-events going on all around, for a moment, it might feel like a journey back in time. You can proceed to absorb more of the picturesque outlooks at the countryside or retreat early with an exciting loop back to our ship.

At mid-day, enjoy cruising along the Mekong on the ship as you take in fascinating panoramic views from the Sun deck, with a drink shared with your newfound friends or rest and relax in your stately room.

Later in the afternoon, we go ashore to traverse the enchanting Mango Island on bike, catching scenic views of historical Catholic churches as well as Buddhist and Cao Dai temples along the way. As you return to the ship, be sure to delight yourself with the festivities in the local village, including tropical fruit tasting, traditional music and dragon dance before coming on board for a tasty cuisine at dinner.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 19 km (12 miles), 1-2 hours biking, Elevation gain: minimal
Level 2, Approx. 37 km (23 miles), 2-3 hours biking, Elevation gain: minimal
Level 3, Approx. 51 km (32 miles), 3-5 hours biking, Elevation gain: minimal

Start the day with a guided walk through the lively commercial world of Sa Dec. This local market opens you up to the intriguing culinary diversity of Vietnamese. It is filled with numerous plant and animal based variables to astound you. Many of which are rarely found elsewhere.

Take up your bike and for one last time, explore more of the rich diversity of sights to see along the Canals of the Mekong delta. Markets, fish farms, rice paddies and mango plantations abound along today's route. Lunch is hosted at a friends along the water, where we feast on a unique home-made delicacy before you hop on a private tender to Cai Be.

A celebratory farewell dinner awaits aboard as we gather to toast an unforgettable voyage on the Mekong as the ship sails towards My Tho.

Wake up to a delightful meal in the morning before we go ashore in My Tho. By shuttle, make your way to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), the largest metropolis in Vietnam where this awe-inspiring trip comes to an end. En route, get enlightened as our National Guide shares knowledge on Saigon's history and Southern Vietnam.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.