The Best of Southeast Asia
Overview
Immerse yourself in a journey that blends breathtaking natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture. Cruise through emerald waters adorned with limestone karsts, explore ancient heritage sites steeped in timeless stories and meander through charming towns filled with history and character. Delight in the region’s diverse culinary scene, from bustling street food markets to refined local flavours, and engage with the rhythms of everyday life. Along the way, visit serene temples, lively markets and modern cityscapes, each revealing a unique facet of Asia’s charm.
This itinerary features More Moments activities included with your package.
If your itinerary includes domestic and/or regional flight tickets, as well as entry tickets to landmarks that require passport details, you must call Air Canada Vacations immediately upon receiving your booking confirmation. Failure to provide Air Canada Vacations with your passport details may result in the unavailability of domestic and/or regional flight tickets and entry passes for certain landmarks included in your tour package. It is mandatory to call Air Canada Vacations at the number provided in your electronic confirmation as soon as your booking is confirmed to submit your passport details.
Format
Locations
- Luang Prabang
- Hanoi
- Hue
- Hội An
- Siem Reap
- Vietnam
- Singapore
- Cambodia
- Laos
- Thailand
- Hạ Long Bay, Vietnam
Inclusions
- Roundtrip flight to Asia (if Flight & Hotel option is chosen)
- One-way economy class airfare from: Bangkok to Luang Prabang, from Luang Prabang to Hanoi, from Hanoi to Huế, from Da Nang to Siem Reap, Siem Reap to Singapore
- Private transfers to and from airports, and for all excursions and sightseeing tours as per the itinerary, unless noted otherwise
- 15 nights’ accommodation (3 nights in Luang Prabang, 2 nights in Hanoi, 1 night in Hạ Long Bay Cruise, 2 nights in Huế, 3 nights in Hội An, 3 nights in Siem Reap, and 1 night in Singapore)
- Daily breakfast
- Lunch and dinner as per itinerary
- Entrance fee to landmarks and monuments as mentioned in the itinerary
- More moments inclusions:
- Luang Prabang full-day city tour
- Tak Bat - Traditional Buddhist ceremony
- Traditional cooking class
- Architectural Walking Tour
- Half-day Hanoi landmarks tour
- Vibrant Street Food Tour
- Hạ Long Bay Cruise
- Huế Full-day city tour
- Dinner at the Garden House Experience
- Hội An half-day walking tour
- Half-day cooking class
- Half-day cycling adventure
- Evening Walking Food Tour
- Siem Reap iconic landmarks tour
- Angkor Wat visit
- Kompong Khleang visit
- Hotel taxes, fees and service charges
- Government tax and service charges
- Service of English-speaking local guide as per program.
- Bottle of water on transfers and sightseeing tours
- Overnight Hạ Long Bay cruise in a private cabin
- Earn extra Aeroplan® points per member on this tour.
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Canada
Depart from Canada bound for Bangkok’s International Airport.
Day 2
Welcome to Luang Prabang
Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, you might be required to clear customs and immigration in Thailand. Once cleared, proceed to the luggage collection area, collect your belongings and check-in for your connection flight to Luang Prabang, “The City of the Golden Temples.”
Upon arrival, proceed through customs and immigration. After clearing, head to the exit where a local representative will greet you with a sign bearing your name. They will escort you to your transfer, which will take you to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Day 3
Luang Prabang
After breakfast, meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby and set off on an exciting full-day city tour. Explore the timeless treasures of the old city, now proudly recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the evening is at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Full-day city tour
First, you’ll visit a sacred Buddhist temple and have the opportunity to participate in a Monk Blessing Ceremony. Afterward, you’ll explore Luang Prabang’s National Museum, formerly the Royal Palace. Next up, you’ll visit Wat Xieng Thong, often regarded as the most beautiful temple in Luang Prabang. You’ll then continue to Wat Mano, a monk school, where you’ll have the chance to meet a young monk and learn more about the history of Buddhism and Laos. The journey then takes you to My Library, a community initiative where you can meet ambitious young people from nearby rural areas who come to Luang Prabang to pursue education.
From there, you’ll depart for the famous Pak Ou Buddha Caves, home to thousands of Buddha images housed within these sacred limestone grottoes.
After lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll board a private Mekong Riverboat for a scenic journey downstream to Luang Prabang. Along the way, you can take in the breathtaking mountain scenery and traditional villages dotting the riverbanks. If time and energy allow, stop to visit the traditional Lao village of Ban Thin Hong.
After exploring the village, continue your Mekong River cruise towards Luang Prabang. Enjoy traditional Lao refreshments and canapés served on board, accompanied by a choice of soft drinks.
Meal(s): breakfast and lunch
Day 4
Luang Prabang
Start your day bright and early with one of Luang Prabang's most unforgettable experiences: the Tak Bat, a traditional Buddhist almsgiving ceremony. This serene ritual begins at 5:30 AM, offering a unique glimpse into the spiritual life of the city.
After the ceremony, take a stroll with your local guide through the colourful, open-air fresh early morning market. Taste a unique local authentic Lao Coffee at Pasaneyom Coffee Shop before heading back to your hotel for breakfast and freshen up to get ready for your next adventure.
After breakfast, embark on a delightful culinary journey with a traditional cooking class, followed by an engaging architectural walking tour that unveils the city's rich heritage.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Tak Bat - Traditional Buddhist ceremony
An unforgettable experience awaits at dawn as hundreds of saffron-robed monks move silently through the streets to collect alms—offerings of food. Your guide will share the rich history and significance of this sacred ritual, which remains an integral part of daily life in Laos. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll with your local guide through the vibrant, open-air Morning Market, brimming with fresh produce and local delights. Complete the experience by savouring a cup of authentic Lao coffee at the charming Pasaneyom Coffee Shop before returning to your hotel.
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Traditional cooking class
Meet a local chef and visit the bustling food market, where your guide will highlight and explain the local produce and its culinary uses. Immerse yourself in the flavours of Laos as you cook authentic Lao dishes while learning about the traditions and customs at the heart of Lao cuisine. The cooking experience takes place in a welcoming local family setting. Afterward, savour a delicious three-course lunch that you’ve prepared, paired with traditional Lao drinks.
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Architectural walking tour
Discover the rich heritage and stunning blend of colonial and Laotian architecture on a cultural walking tour. Explore one of Asia’s most delightful and visually captivating towns as you venture off the beaten path. This walk takes you through lesser-known parts of Luang Prabang, including hidden, charming lanes that beautifully capture the town’s traditional atmosphere.
Meal(s): breakfast and lunch
Day 5
Luang Prabang – Hanoi
After a leisurely breakfast, take some time to continue exploring Luang Prabang at your own pace until it’s time to check out. Once you’ve checked out, meet your local representative in the hotel lobby for your transfer to Luang Prabang International Airport, where you’ll board your flight to Hanoi, known as “The City of Lakes.”
Upon arrival, proceed through customs and immigration. After clearing, head to the exit where a local representative will greet you with a sign bearing your name. They will escort you to your transfer, which will take you to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 6
Hanoi
After an early breakfast, meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby for a half-day Hanoi landmarks tour, including a charming cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle taxi) ride. Afterwards, return to your hotel to freshen up and enjoy a leisurely early afternoon before diving into your next adventure, a vibrant street food tour.
Afterwards you will be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the evening is at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day Hanoi landmarks tour
Enjoy a brief orientation of Hanoi’s tree-lined streets and its French colonial architecture including the exquisite Opera House and the legendary lake of the Restored Sword. Continue to the Temple of Literature, known as the first national university in Vietnam and the symbol of Vietnamese architectural values. Then, head to Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays) for an insight into the 54 ethnic groups of Vietnam. You’ll have the chance to explore the outdoor display area that exhibits a variety of ethnic homes as full-scale replicas. Cap off the trip with a cyclo ride through the labyrinthine alleyways of the Old Quarters. Stop at a roadside coffee shop, mingle with the locals and enjoy daily life passing by.
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Vibrant Street Food Tour
Enjoy strolling through the winding streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter and indulge your taste buds along the way, try the popular Nom Kho Bo, a salad made with green papaya and beef jerky. Next, follow the scent of fragrant food to a rustic venue where Banh Cuon, a steamed rice roll, is served. Then, visit a family-run eatery, Huong Lien, that serves Bun Cha, a one-dish meal of noodles with flame-grilled pork cooked over hot coals for extra flavour. After satisfying your appetite, it's time for dessert. Venture down a small alley in search of seasonal sweet treats.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 7
Hanoi – Hạ Long Bay (Overnight cruise)
After breakfast and check-out, meet your guide in the lobby of the hotel and embark on a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Tuan Chau Jetty, where an exciting overnight cruise on the famous Hạ Long Bay awaits!
Upon arrival at the pier, take a speedboat to your vessel and enjoy lunch while cruising through Hạ Long Bay’s iconic limestone islands. Depending on your itinerary, explore caves, grottos, pearl farms or island beaches, with some cruises offering kayaking. After sunset, enjoy a Vietnamese cooking demonstration followed by a delicious dinner. The day ends with the boat anchoring for the night among the karst formations.
More Moments Activities Included
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Hạ Long Bay Cruise
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the mesmerizing landscape of Hạ Long Bay, a true gem of Vietnam's natural wonders. Join us on an exhilarating overnight cruise where we will glide through the pristine waters, offering unparalleled views of the majestic limestone islands that dot the horizon.
Marvel at the spectacle of over 3,000 towering karst formations, each adorned with lush greenery and hidden caves waiting to be explored. Our voyage will take us past secluded beaches, hidden grottoes and picturesque coves.
Along the way, soak in the tranquillity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the beauty of nature blends seamlessly with centuries of cultural heritage. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking scenery and rich history that surrounds you, offering a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and cultural immersion.
Meal(s): breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 8
Hạ Long Bay – Huế
After a leisurely breakfast, your relaxing adventure continues as the cruise smoothly returns to port for disembarkation at Tuan Chau Jetty.
Upon arrival at the port, a local representative will greet you with a sign with your name and escort you to your transfer. You will then be taken to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi to catch your flight to “the Imperial City”, Huế!
Upon arrival, collect your luggage and proceed to the exit, where a local representative will greet you with a sign bearing your name. You will then be escorted to your transfer, which will take you to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 9
Huế
After breakfast, meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby for a full-day tour of Huế, where you'll discover the city's rich history and modern allure. In the evening, savour a delicious dinner thoughtfully arranged just for you and hosted at the Garden House.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the evening is at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Full-day city tour
Start your day at the Imperial Citadel, a historic gem. Then, enjoy a 30-minute cyclo-ride around the surrounding area, where locals have lived for generations in traditional homes. Afterward, hop into your car for a drive to visit the outer ring of the historic, 19th-century Tiger Fighting Arena.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the striking contemporary architecture of Lebadang Memory Space, a unique cultural enclave nestled within lush forests, showcasing native botanical beauty.
On your way back to town, make a stop at the Minh Mang Royal Tomb, a magnificent example of imperial architecture.
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Dinner at the Garden House Experience
Take a short drive to an ancient village on the rural outskirts of Huế. Stroll leisurely through the countryside to immerse yourself in the local way of life. Make a stop at a local handicraft workshop to learn about rice paper and the traditional rice milling process, or visit a hidden temple to explore cultural relics.
Engage in a casual conversation at an authentic ancient house, where you’ll not only gain insight into the local way of life but also participate in a hands-on cooking session, preparing a simple dinner with traditional cuisine and regional specialties. Enjoy your meal in a rustic yet relaxing atmosphere. To complete the experience, indulge in a soothing herbal footbath made from garden plants, a special treat to unwind and refresh.
Meal(s): breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 10
Huế – Hội An
After breakfast and check-out, meet your driver in the hotel lobby for a scenic 3-hour drive to Hội An, the charming "Lantern City."
Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel and take some time to freshen up before embarking on an exciting half-day walking tour. After the tour, you'll be transferred back to your hotel, with the rest of the evening free to relax and explore at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day walking tour
This UNESCO World Heritage Site-listed Old Town is ideal for exploring on foot. Discover beautifully preserved old merchant houses, atmospheric temples and lively markets as you stroll through the back streets of this enchanting destination. You will visit the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Bridge and the busy waterfront, where colourful fishing boats bob up and down on the Thu Bồn River. There will also be time to peruse the numerous boutiques and galleries that line the narrow streets and perhaps make a purchase or two. During the walk, a quick visit at the market to find out well-known local cakes in Hội An market such as Bánh Ít Lá Gai or Banh Dau Xanh.
Meal(s): breakfast and lunch
Day 11
Hội An
After breakfast, meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby and embark on a delightful culinary adventure with a half-day cooking class in the charming TraQue Herbal Village.
Afterwards, your tour guide will take you back to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day cooking class
Memorable culinary and cultural experience set among tranquil surroundings. Learn the secrets of the Vietnamese kitchen at restaurant with an impressive architecture.
First, we drive to a riverside café shop to enjoy Café Sữa Đá, a traditional Vietnamese drink. Next, we’ll visit the bustling local market, gaining insight into the scents and flavours of the country’s culinary culture while collecting ingredients for your dishes. Afterward, we’ll take you to the wharf and board a boat for a short trip to the location where the cooking class is held. During the journey, you’ll learn to prepare special dishes and then sit down with friends to enjoy a delightful meal that you’ve prepared.
Meal(s): breakfast and lunch
Day 12
Hội An
After an early breakfast, meet your guide in the hotel lobby for an exciting half-day cycling adventure through the scenic landscapes of Hội An.
Return to your hotel for some free time before your afternoon culinary experience, an Evening Walking Food Tour.
After this flavourful experience, you'll be transferred back to your hotel, with the rest of the evening at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day cycling adventure
Embrace slow travel by exploring Hội An during a 8km cycling ride. The scenery around the busting ancient town is simply breathtaking. Narrow canals, peaceful paths and rural roads lead past lush rice paddy fields and overgrown channels to small settlements that have not changed for centuries. The destination for today’s excursion is Cam Thanh, a traditional fishing village surrounded by tranquil coconut-palm flanked waterways. Enjoy cycling through the village, shaded from the sun by a canopy of bamboo thickets, and learn about the daily life of the fishermen and the local community. Depending on the time of day and the season, there may also be an opportunity to see the local farming community at work.
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Evening Walking Food Tour
Wander through the hidden alleyways and learn about the daily lifestyle of the local people through its cuisine. This evening’s culinary tour begins with a drink and a small selection of street food, sampling famous dishes like White Rose (translucent white dough filled with spicy minced shrimp or pork) and special crispy wontons. Next on the agenda is a Vietnamese-style hotpot in a lively local restaurant before moving onto the last venue on the itinerary. Sample succulent BBQ specialties at Bale well accompanied by a cold beer and a delicious dessert of Flan cake, a light version of crème caramel inherited from the French. Then, you’ll have a chance to sit on authentic boat on the river in the evening and release flower garlands like a local, listen to interesting daily stories from boatmen before returning to the hotel.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 13
Hội An – Siem Reap
After breakfast and check-out, meet your driver in the lobby of your hotel, who will take you to Da Nang International Airport to catch your flight to “the gateway to Angkor,” Siem Reap.
Upon arrival, clear customs and immigration. Afterward, proceed to collect your luggage. Once you have your luggage, head to the exit where a local representative will be waiting for you, holding a sign with your name. They will escort you to your transfer, which will take you to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 14
Siem Reap
After breakfast, meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby and set off on an exciting day of cultural exploration, visiting the most iconic landmarks of this ancient city.
More Moments Activities Included
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Iconic landmarks tour
Depart by Remork (motorcycle) to the ancient city of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire. Enter through the South Gate, adorned with carved elephants and giant faces, with rows of gods and demons holding the sacred Naga snake. Next, visit the Bayon Temple, known for its 54 towers with enigmatic faces representing the Khmer Empire's provinces. Explore the Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King, famous for their detailed bas-reliefs. Afterward, return to your hotel for lunch (at your own expense). In the afternoon, visit Ta Prohm Temple, left largely overgrown by jungle, making it one of the most scenic Angkor temples. End the day at Preah Khan, a 12th-century temple with impressive halls, pavilions and bas-reliefs of apsaras in the Hall of Dancers.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 15
Siem Reap
After breakfast, meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby, ready to embark on an unforgettable journey! Your first stop is the magnificent Angkor Wat, the largest temple in the world and a true wonder of ancient architecture.
After exploring this iconic site, take a break to savour a delicious lunch at a local restaurant (at your own expense).
In the afternoon, continue your adventure with a short drive to visit the captivating floating village of Kompong Khleang, where you'll experience the unique charm of life on the water.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Angkor Wat visit
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the world’s largest religious monument and a must-see when visiting Cambodia. As you wander through its sprawling galleries, marvel at intricate carvings that tell ancient tales and gaze up at their iconic spires reaching for the sky. Built in the 12th century, it offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Khmer civilization.
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Kompong Khleang visit
Explore this captivating floating village on the shores of Tonlé Sap Lake. Here, life flows with the rhythm of the water, offering a glimpse into a unique way of living. Cruise past stilted homes that tower above the floodplain in the dry season or appear to float during the wet season, creating a picturesque and ever-changing landscape. Meet the friendly locals, see traditional fishing techniques in action and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this serene community. A visit to Kompong Khleang is not just a journey to a village, it’s a step into a world unlike any other.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 16
Siem Reap – Singapore
After breakfast, your private driver will take you to Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport for your flight to Singapore.
Upon arrival, proceed through customs and immigration. After these formalities are completed, collect your luggage and head to the exit, where a local representative will greet you with a sign bearing your name. They will escort you to your transfer, which will take you to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 17
Singapore - Canada
After breakfast, your private driver will take you to Singapore International airport for your flight back to Canada.
Meal(s): breakfast
Accommodations
Where you'll stay
Location
Hotel
Room details
Type of bed(s): 1 double bed or 2 twin beds
Room occupancy: Maximum people (1-2 adults)
Unless otherwise specified, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
* The accommodation in Hạ Long Bay (Cruise) is not star-rated due to their unique nature. Instead, this exceptional experience provides guests with an unforgettable journey, blending comfort, adventure, and cultural immersion in a truly one-of-a-kind setting.
Important Information
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Departure Dates:
- Oct 26 – Nov 30: 3 x week (Wed, Fri and Sun)
- Dec 01 – Mar 27 5 x week (Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat and Sun)
- Mar 30 – Apr 30 3 x week (Mon, Wed and Sat)
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Not included
- Gratuities of any kind
- Visa expenses
- Expenses of personal nature, including travel insurance
- Festive dinner/meal and festive surcharge at each hotel
- Airport taxes (where applicable)
- Meals outside of the ones mentioned within the itinerary above.
- Drinks
- Transfers for any optional activities, and any other transfer services required outside of the itinerary above.
- Excess baggage fees
- Entrance to other landmarks not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Additional activities and excursions
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The More Moments activities/excursions mentioned in the itinerary are all included in the package but may be rescheduled to take place on an earlier or later day, depending on availability and operational day, or cancelled due to weather related conditions.
Visits to sacred temples:
- Visitors must wear discreet and respectful clothing, like blouses or shirts that cover their arms and shoulders. Skirts must be long to cover the legs in the Angkor region (no skirts or shorts).
- During the visit to the Bakan tower of Angkor Wat temple, visitors are required to wear proper attire, covering shoulders and knees as this temple is still considered as a sacred site (no shorts, miniskirts or short trousers). Children under twelve years old are not allowed to climb up this tower. It will be closed on the Buddhist Sabbath Days, the Buddhist religious days, four days a month in accordance with the Lunar Calendar.
Half-day Hanoi Landmarks Cyclo Tour remarks:
- Please note that the Museum of Ethnology is closed on Mondays - Vietnamese Women Museum is the alternate.
- The cyclo service is closed during the Tet holiday period and is replaced by a buggy.
Full-day city tour remarks:
- Lebadang Memory Space: Closed on Mondays; opening time: 8:00-12:00 AM and 2:00-6:00 PM
Vibrant Street Food Tours remarks:
- Please be aware of the basic facilities at local street food venues. Depending on the availability of certain venues, your tour guide might suggest alternative options on site. The vegetarian option is not available.
Evening Walking Food Tour Remarks:
- Please be well aware of the basic facilities at local food venues. Depending on the availability of certain venues, your tour guide might suggest alternative options on site. Vegetarian option is not available.
Hạ Long Bay Cruise remarks:
- 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.
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- Private transfer service from/to Airports.
- Shared transfer service for all sightseeing, unless noted otherwise
- Flight from: Bangkok to Luang Prabang, from Luang Prabang to Hanoi, from Hanoi to Hue, from Da Nang to Siem Reap, Siem Reap to Singapore
- Car ride from Hue to Hoi An
Driving times may vary depending on the traffic and road conditions on the ground
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The itinerary above is subject to change without prior notice. The order in which destinations are visited, or day excursions occur may change due to operational restrictions, such as accommodation availability, weather, national events, strikes, etc.