tours vietnam and thailand

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Thailand and Vietnam Tours & Trips

Find the right adventure for you through Thailand and Vietnam. We've got 144 tours going to Thailand and Vietnam, starting from just 8 days in length, and the longest tour is 50 days. The most popular month to go is October, which has the highest number of tour departures.

144 Thailand and Vietnam tour packages with 1,091 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Discover Vietnam and Cambodia Thailand in 12 Days

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

• Sightseeing

Amazing Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam 18 days

This tour definitely gives you more than what you expect. The guide Sam in Cambodia was knowledgeable, honest, and genuine. This tour checks the bucket list you may have from each country. We would recommend this trip.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Coach / Bus

21 days Thailand, Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia

21 Days Thailand Laos Vietnam Cambodia We had a great time on this tour! My husband and I had wanted to go to South East Asia for some time, and we were looking for a trip that would give us a realistic overview in the month we had available. We knew we wanted to get to Thailand (my favorite cuisine), Vietnam (lots of history and, again, the food), and Cambodia (Angor Wat), and thought, why not throw in Laos? This itinerary looked really ambitious but like it had a good balance of travel, activity, and leisure. Hoi An Adventures is a Vietnamese company, so we weren’t surprised that Vietnam got a disproportionate focus to the other countries. What we loved: Our gut instinct about the itinerary was spot on. Yes, we covered a lot of ground. I hadn’t quite realized just how many flights we’d take, but with one overnight train trip and five flights, we were able to see some amazing parts of each of the four countries. It’s hard picking highlights, as there were so many. Certainly, Halong Bay and Hoi An. The unexpected jewel of the trip was Luang Prabang, Laos, a town I’d never even heard of before this trip. Thanks for including it and for allowing us four nights there and free time just to wander its magical streets! There were, of course, lots of places we’d have liked to get that we didn’t have a chance to. But if/when we’re back, we’ll have a pretty good idea of where we want to go and how to get there. We also applaud the hotel choices. In each city except Chiang Mai, we were right in the heart of the town. The Chiang Mai hotel wasn’t bad, but quite possibly because we were further away from the activity, that was our least favorite stop. (It also made us more appreciative of all the others being actually in the towns.) The hotels themselves ranged from perfectly adequate (the Ho Chi Minh City hotel was one of only two “deluxe” hotels, and it was the least impressive) to rustically charming (the Luang Prabang guesthouse, Lao Wooden House, which we loved) to old world elegance (Siem Reap, City View). What we liked: the excursions were all pretty good. The guides English varied significantly. All were able to speak well enough to convey information, and some were able to understand it well enough to answer questions. All seemed passionate about their subject matter. Favorite guides included River in Hoi An and Top in Ho Chi Minh City, but we learned from all of them. We particularly appreciated the tour through a local market in Luang Prabang and the temples off the beaten track in Angor Wat. The tailored garment in Hoi An was a terrific souvenir. We liked the ratio of time committed to excursions and free time—though we had a travel companion who was unhappy the time wasn’t more scheduled, so opinions can vary on that. Being dropped off and picked up from all transportation hubs made traveling really easy. It’s the first time we’ve had that benefit, and it made us converts. What we liked less: Not Hoi An Tours’ fault, but my husband and I wound up traveling with one other person throughout our trip. That enforced intimacy can be a bit awkward. More people on the tour would have given each of the three of us more opportunities to find people who meshed with us and shared our interests. In some cities we paired up with other small groups, which was nice and gave us a bigger pool of new acquaintances to share the experience with. In the past we’ve been on trips with 10 or so other people, and sharing new experiences with them has been one of the benefits of travel. It’s luck of the draw, as the tour will go on with a minimum of two people. If you sign up, maybe you can get some friends or family to go with you! Communication hit some snags here and there. We made our initial reservation through Tour Radar, and all the communications that went on through that portal were fine. Unfortunately, someone in the Hoi An Tours office entered my email address incorrectly, and we had trouble getting some messages, not knowing we were missing them. They absolutely tried! They gave us a mobile phone, presumably so we could contact them easily. And any time we contacted them through the working email portal, they got back to us quickly. There were some variances between the itinerary we did finally receive and what actually occurred. For example, we were told we’d be on an upgraded boat on Halong Bay, but when we got there, we weren’t. So the stated features and activities didn’t jibe with what we actually received. Our itinerary also had some differing times and activities from the one our traveling companion had, which led to some confusion. Overall, this was a great trip and we would recommend it highly! We’ll relive the vibrant traffic of Bangkok, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City and treasure our memories of the Mekong River and Delta, the floating lanterns of Hoi An, the charming back streets of Luang Prabang, and the warmth and welcome of Siem Reap. Can’t wait to plan our next trip.

Essential Vietnam & Cambodia

Was a smooth and enjoyable process from start to finish. The tour organizers G Adventures are worth of their platinum rating.

11 Days Fantastic Vietnam & Thailand

We enjoyed everything about our tour in Vietnam except the breakfast and stay at the Titan Hotel. The smell in the room was overbearing for 2 nights, we even purchased room spray but that didn't help. The breakfast selection was nothing to rave about. we decided to eat elsewhere in the am. Bau and Nguyen were excellent guides. When we arrived in Thailand, there were some issues with the transportation to the hotel. I would've been nice for Hoi An to let us know which company in they used for the tours, we didn't know until we landed and had to search the airport and make several calls. The guide, Honey Bee in Bangkok, spent more time on her phone than actually interacting with us. She was nice but nothing special. The guide in Chiang Mai, Indie, was excellent. She was flexible with us very informative. We would definitely recommend this tour to friends.

Endless Beauty of Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand - 19 Days

This tour was epic for me. As a first time American to all these countries was a dream. Danny from the Legends Company was very informative, took care to keep us informed and accessible by Whats up to help and assist with travel issues. We picked a private driver and guide. It was so worth it in hot weather. The hotels and meals were good. The itinerary was great. I would recommend spending more time in Thailand on your own after the tour. I believe this was a great out and a great price.

Glimpse Of Indochina In 16 Days (Vietnam,Cambodia,Thailand,Laos)

Everything was great however the 3 star hotels all featured beds that were way too hard, they were probably catering for a large proportion of Japanese tourists, meals were also probably .not what typical Australians would prefer. A sore back everyday was not what we had expected, we would have upgraded to 4 star if we had known in advance.

Thailand, Laos & Vietnam Adventure

Such a great adventure and nothing was too much trouble for Ratha. He’s a great CEO.

Spirits Of Vietnam - Cambodia - Thailand In 16 Days

Nice experience, everything was well planned

Splendid of Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand 18 Days

Parts of the tour were a 5 and parts were a 3. I thought that I was signing up for an 18 day tour in a group of 15, but that was not the case at all. This left me feeling like the entire program was misrepresented. In reality, I was shuffled from group to group on each excursion and many times toured alone. As a solo traveler, this experience was very isolating. Transportation from place to place was a mixed bag. Sometimes it was quick and reliable, and sometimes I waited for extended time periods. For the most part the cars were neat and tidy. The drivers were competent. Connecting flights were pretty good. I personally would prefer either very early or very late flights. I felt as though a fair amount of time was wasted sitting at the airport. Accommodations were good for middle of the road choices. Breakfasts were very good. The best part of the program was definitely the guides! Every single one of them were personable and knowledgeable. For me, I would have enjoyed having at least a couple of scheduled outings in Phuket. Overall, the package itself was good. However, for a solo traveler it was quite isolating and lonely to spend days at a time and most meals alone. Additionally, I ended up spending at least another $500 purchasing excursions to fill my empty time. While I would recommend this company to someone who was traveling with a partner, I would never recommend it to a solo traveler.

Highlights of Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand in 15 Days

Southeast Asia Discovery 19 Days

What truly made this tour exceptional was our knowledgeable and passionate tour guides. Throught out the trip especially in Bangkok, Luangprabang and Hanoi, they shared personal stories, historical insights, and insider tips that enriched our experience. The accommodations were top-notch, offering comfort and convenience in every city. Highly recommend.

Fantastic of Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand in 16 Days - Halong Bay/ Hoi An/ Siem Reap/ Phuket

Good morning Tourradar team, Both Ross and I realy enjoyed our tour of Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. We visited some great temples and other sites which were well run and our tour gides were really knowledgeable and knew where to take us and the best times to go. I would also like to thank the ladies on the phones who responded straight away to my calls for assistance and they rearrnged transport after I was in hospital in Hanoi, they were great and very caring thank you so much, they are a great team of laides. Thank you for a great and well run holiday, Glenn & Ross

Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia are so beautiful. The elephants in Thailand, Hoi An in Vietnam and Koh Rong are my favourite places on the tour. All 3 of our leaders were special in their own way, thank you to all of you. Would love to do it all again!

Premium Thailand and Vietnam (including Halong Bay)

What people love about thailand and vietnam tours.

Sang is a great tour leader. He is very helpful and likeable

Everything worked as planned. Great tour and amazing guides

Kosal went above and beyond to make this tour one of the best I've ever been on! We learned so much about the history of the countries and it was the perfect itinerary. Literally could not recommend enough!!!

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Premium Thailand and Vietnam

19 days | explore the hearts of northern thailand and vietnam, from bustling cities to serene natural landscapes.

Get to know the essence of local culture as you travel from the city streets to the mountain tops of Northern Thailand – a land of mouth-watering food, stunning landscapes, fascinating history and incredibly hospitable locals. Explore the ancient temples of Ayutthaya, spend time with Lisu hill tribes, meet the experts at an elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai and uncover the country’s past in Kanchanaburi. Then, hit the streets of bustling Vietnam and take part in enriching local encounters as your leader shows you the soul of this diverse metropolis. Get lost in the districts of Hanoi, cruise past the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay on an overnight cruise, discover the old-world charm of Hoi An and navigate the winding streets of Ho Chi Minh City. With an unbeatable mix of culture, cuisine and history, your Premium journey through two of Southeast Asia’s hotspots will surely surprise and delight.

Trip overview

• Stay in the beautiful Lisu Lodge for your Feature Stay in Thailand. This community-based project employs Lisu villagers and allows you to immerse yourself in local culture while enjoying creature comforts.
• Support an important animal welfare initiative, speak with local experts and get close to incredible creatures at the Elephant Nature Park.
• Explore the cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with your local leader, who will help you uncover the vibrant mix of influences, from the French to Asian traders, settlers and Indigenous peoples.
• Enjoy an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay on a boat as beautiful as its surroundings for your Feature Stay in Vietnam. Take in spectacular views while enjoying a candle-lit dinner on deck.
• Sit down to a soul-stirring Hat Xam performance, your Exclusive Experience and an art form that dates back over 700 years to the Tran Dynasty.
• In 2023, Tet (Lunar New Year) will run from the 21st to the 27th of January. This is a fascinating and rewarding time to see the region, however you do need to be prepared for some businesses to be closed, tourist sites to be very busy and for transport to be packed as many Vietnamese are travelling around the country. Please consider your travel arrangements carefully before booking travel for this period.
• You will visit a number of temples that require a level of modesty. All travellers must bring clothes that cover the arms and pants or skirts that go past the knees. The heat can be challenging, especially in April and May, so please pack accordingly.
• This trip includes a cycling tour around Sukhothai Heritage Park, so confidence on a bicycle will be required. The roads are quiet with minimal traffic, so it’s a leisurely ride.

Welcome to Thailand! Your journey begins in Bangkok, where you’ll be collected at the airport and transferred to your hotel. After settling into your room, an important welcome meeting will take place at 6pm. Please check for the Intrepid Premium noticeboard in the reception area of the hotel. If you arrive early, take some time to enjoy Bangkok’s irresistible energy. By day you’ll encounter a city steeped with history and tradition, but by night Bangkok is taken over by a flood of music and neon lights. Watch torrents of tuk tuks zip by while traditional khlong boats slowly wind down the Chao Phraya River. After your meeting, join your small group for a welcome dinner at an excellent local restaurant where your leader will introduce you to a food scene that’s bursting with local flavour.

• Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside Hotel Bangkok or similar (1 night)
• Complimentary Arrival Transfer
• Bangkok - Welcome Dinner

The arrival transfer is only valid if arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-trip accommodation through us. Please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 14 days prior to travel, as we may not be able to confirm a request made within 14 days of travel.

Rise early for an optional exclusive experience away from Bangkok’s well-trodden tourist track. Join the locals for to a visit to a temple along the Chao Phraya River, where you’ll ‘make merit’ by bringing an offering to the temple’s monks – a truly unforgettable moment. Today your leader will take you for a day of sightseeing and activities in lively Bangkok. Tour Wat Po, a larger-than-life temple complex in the city - home of the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Also visit the majestic Grand Palace and learn about the site which has been the official residence of the kings since the 1700s, and enjoy a boat tour of the city's canals as your leader shows you how Bangkok’s locals live today. The afternoon is free to do as you wish, perhaps check out the art collection at the Jim Thompson house or relax with a Thai massage.

• Bangkok - Grand Palace
• Bangkok - Wat Pho
• Bangkok - Khlong boat canal tour
• Bangkok - Temple Merit Making
• Bangkok - Jim Thompson's House - THB200
• Bangkok - Thai Massage - THB250

Please note when visiting the Grand Palace you will be required to wear clothes covering your shoulders and knees (long pants or skirts are suitable) plus covered shoes/sneaker (no sandals).

Unleash your creativity and learn about the history of Benjarong, a traditional style of painted Thai porcelain, with a visit to a ceramics community. The name literally means ‘five colours’ (although it’s not unusual to see up to eight) and artists use enamel to create intricate floral and geometric designs. This morning you’ll get to paint your own mug or teacup which will be fired and sent to you to take home as a unique and very special souvenir. There will be time to buy lunch if you wish, before you continue to Kanchanaburi to visit to the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery. This prisoner of war cemetery was one of the first museums to attempt to educate the public and keep the memory of the Asian and POW workers who died constructing the infamous Death Railway alive.

• U Inchantree or similar (1 night)
• Benjarong - Ceramics Workshop
• Kanchanaburi - Kanchanaburi War Cemetery
• Kanchanaburi - Bridge over the River Kwai

Today’s total driving time is approximately 3.5 hours.

Start your day with a visit to Erawan National Park where you can explore the park’s famous seven-level waterfall or simply swim and relax. The falls are regarded as some of the most beautiful in the country, with glacial blue waters rushing through the forest into bamboo-shaded pools perfect for a refreshing dip. Many Allied prisoners of war and conscripted Asian labourers were engaged here to help build a rail route to Myanmar (Burma), including the passage infamously known as Hellfire Pass. Visit the memorial museum of the pass where your leader will provide more information about this chapter in history. Take a historical train journey across a portion of this 'death railway' along the Kwai Noi River and travel over the original wooden viaduct, known as the Krasae Bridge, constructed by the allied POWs. Pass through peaceful and naturally beautiful scenery as you learn of those who lost their lives building this rail route. The evening is yours to explore the town.

• Kanchanaburi - Erawan National Park Visit
• Kanchanaburi - Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum

Today’s total driving time is approximately 3 hours.

This morning head to Ayutthaya, one of the ancient capitals of Siam and a World Heritage site. On the way, visit Baan Nong Khao CBT Village, an agricultural village that is famous for its Pha Khao Mah hand-weaving. Visit the community’s museum, a palm sugar field and a local house to see how desserts featuring this famous Thai ingredient are made. Of course, you’ll get to sample these delicious, sweet treats. Then watch the weavers at work as they use more than 100 colours of yarn to create traditional Thai clothing. Upon arrival in Ayutthaya, explore the photogenic 13th-century ruins of Wat Phra Mahathat and discover rows of Buddhas beheaded by the Burmese. Look out for the displaced Buddha head suspended in the roots of a Banyan tree - one of the country’s most photographed images. Tonight, the past will come to life as you board a traditional rice barge and tuck into a delicious Thai dinner.

• Kantary Hotel Ayutthaya or similar (1 night)
• Baan Nong Khao - Weaving Community Visit
• Ayutthaya - Temple Visit
• Ayutthaya - Traditional Rice Barge Dinner Cruise

Today you will leave Ayutthaya and travel to the town of Phitsanulok by train. Sit back, relax and watch the scenery roll by. After arriving in Phitsanulok, change to a private vehicle and continue on this comfortable journey which will see you arriving in Sukhothai at approximately 5pm. The rest of the day is free for your own discoveries. You may like to relax by the pool or unwind with a Thai massage, and for dinner this evening be sure to ask your leader where you can get a bowl of Sukhothai’s famously tasty noodles.

• Legendha Sukhothai Resort or similar (1 night)
• Ayutthaya - Train to Phitsanuloke

Today’s travel time is approximately 5 hours.

Sukhothai, established in the 13th century, was one of the first ancient capitals of Siam. Start your day with an optional alms offering before visiting its famed World Heritage listed historical park, which captures the Golden Age of Thai civilisation. Visit the historical park, which spans the ruins of the town, where you will rent a bicycle and take part in a cycle tour. As you ride around, your leader will let you know more about the history of this former metropolis and its fascinating structures. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the beautiful grounds of Sukhothai Park. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore the town, or you might want to simply read a book by the pool back at your accommodation. This evening, regroup and head to the home of one of our local friends where you’ll enjoy a wonderful homecooked dinner and a unique insight into life in this part of the country.

• Sukhothai - Morning Alms Offering
• Sukhothai - Historical Park Visit and Bike Ride
• Sukhothai - Dinner in a local home

Travel from Sukhothai to the Mae Taeng region. Draped between tranquil rice fields and fruit orchards, you’ll find the enchanting Lisu Lodge, your Feature Stay accommodation. The lodge is a community-based project that trains and employs Lisu villagers from the nearby hill tribe and aims to preserve their cultural heritage. The Lisu people are a Tibeto-Burman ethnic group and one of the six main hill tribes of Northern Thailand. Meet the colourfully dressed villagers and learn more about the Lisu way of life - a truly special experience that is sure to be one of your enduring memories of Thailand. The lodge offers gorgeous guestrooms decorated in the traditional Lisu style with modern comforts. Savour unforgettable views of the surrounding hillside and valley, and enjoy a tantalising dinner of Thai food mixed with traditional Lisu dishes. You don’t have to look for a cultural experience here - it’s all around you.

• Lisu Lodge or similar (1 night)

Today’s total driving time is approximately 7 hours.

After breakfast at Lisu Lodge, it’s a quick trip to Muang Kued Village where you will meet with a local villager and enjoy a private guided tour. Learn about village life, the reforestation of the surrounding area and how produce is grown in the village orchards. Explore the organic farm and choose the ingredients for a cooking class where you’ll learn how to cook traditional Thai food. After a delicious lunch, join the villagers for a chance to learn how to weave palm leaves to create ornaments and accessories. You’ll also enjoy a tasty barbeque dinner at the nearby Mae Tamaan Base Camp.

• Muang Kued - Village Visit, Cooking Class, and Handicraft Workshop
• Mae Taeng - Mae Tamaan Base Camp BBQ Dinner

Travel to the Elephant Nature Park - a unique project that provides sanctuary for elephants and other animals. Be greeted by an expert local guide and learn the stories of the rescued elephants and the issues they face in South-East Asia. Feed the elephants from a viewing platform, walk with the expert staff to watch elephants bathe and play, and enjoy a vegetarian buffet lunch. On arrival back in Chiang Mai in the late afternoon, the evening is yours to enjoy your way. You may like to visit the vibrant Night Bazaar or take a stroll around the old town which is bounded by moats. Your guide can give you recommendations on where to go for dinner.

• Smile Lanna Resort or similar (1 night)
• Chiang Mai - Elephant Nature Park Half Day Trip

Start your day with a caffeine hit and a visit to a sustainable social enterprise with a focus on all things coffee. From here, you will drive to the famous temple complex of Doi Suthep. Take in stunning views along the scenic and winding mountain road which brings you to an impressive 300-step Naga-guarded stairway. The rewards justify the ascent to the top, with one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand on display, not to mention the fantastic panoramic views of the city. Return to Chiang Mai where you will have time to relax before an exclusive farewell dinner cooked by a local chef. Dine on delicious traditional northern Thai food like kao soy, yellow wheat noodles in a curry broth, traditionally served with chicken or beef, as you reminisce about the wonderful adventures you’ve had in Northern Thailand.

• Chiang Mai - Akha Ama Coffee Social Enterprise Visit
• Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple Visit
• Chiang Mai - Farewell Dinner

Today’s total travel time is approximately 1.5 hours.

With no activities planned for today, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you would like to extend your stay in Chiang Mai we can help arrange extra accommodation (subject to availability).

Depart Hanoi and travel to Halong Bay, one of the great natural treasures of Vietnam. Board your Feature Stay accommodation for the evening, a gloriously beautiful and traditionally decorated junk-style boat featuring modern conveniences. Set sail in total comfort as unforgettable views of scattered islands and towering limestone outcrops slowly unfold in front of you. Explore the bay while enjoying a pleasant seafood lunch onboard. Learn about the fascinating geography of the region and its importance to the Vietnamese people, visit Surprise Cave where your leader will point out interesting rock formations, and in the warmer months you can choose a swim from Ti Top Island Beach or take an optional kayaking tour. Sit back with a drink on the upper deck and face out to the spirit-lifting view that will be stamped on your memory of Vietnam. Soak in the stunning surroundings with a candlelit seafood dinner on deck before settling in for a night of stargazing and swapping stories.

• Secret Halong Cruise (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night)
• Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise
• Halong Bay - Kayaking Tour - VND250000

Today’s total travel time is approximately 3.5 hours. Your main luggage can be left in the hotel in Hanoi.

Surprise Cave is accessed via staircases but the pathways inside can be a little uneven and slippery, so good walking shoes or sandals will be useful. Swimming in the bay from the boats is banned by the local authority.

Your junk-style boat has twin-share cabins with en suite facilities and air-conditioning. Due to the limited cabins on board, the single supplement is excluded, and accommodation will be on a twin-share basis.

Local authorities permit a limited number of boats to stay overnight in Halong Bay. To ensure all travellers can be accommodated on board available boats, on rare occasions you will stay on a larger boat (with up to 12 cabins) and share your boat with another group. Or your group may be split across different vessels, in which case a group leader will be present on each boat. The route taken and inclusions on board will be the same.

Start your day with a peaceful breakfast and perhaps take part in some Tai Chi on board the boat before returning to Hanoi. This afternoon you’ll take part in a once-in-a-lifetime experience and sit down to a soul-stirring traditional Hat Xam performance. Hat Xam is an art form of Northern Vietnam dating back to the Tran Dynasty. Originally, this was performed by blind performers, and was enjoyed by local working-class audiences, right up until the late 1950s, when a wave of communism deemed all art forms to be corrupting influences. Today these performances are rare, but you and your group will be taken to a private club house and treated to an exclusive performance in one of the few places where artists still sing acoustically. The performance takes around 60 minutes, and includes possible interaction with guests, so be ready to get involved!

• The Ann Hotel Hanoi or similar (1 night)
• Hanoi - Hat Xam performance
• Halong Bay - Tai Chi
• Hanoi - Street Food Experience Urban Adventure - USD40

Today’s total travel time is approximately 3.5 hours.

This morning you’ll get to know Hanoi’s charms on a half-day tour with your leader. Discover a captivating city where traditional and modern sit side by side as your leader shares knowledge on the Temple of Literature, an oasis of calm in the heart of town. You'll also visit the infamous Hoa Lo Prison, known as the "Hanoi Hilton" which held American POWs. Today’s lunch is extra special as you will visit the fantastic KOTO café, a social enterprise that provides hospitality training and experience while empowering at-risk and disadvantaged youth in Vietnam – not to mention a creative menu of food made with local ingredients. This afternoon you’ll say goodbye to Hanoi and fly south to Danang. Drive on to Hoi An and take in views of lush scenery along the way. Arrive in Hoi An in the late afternoon and check into your boutique accommodation. The rest of the day is yours – maybe make the most of your hotel’s fabulous pool.

• Mulberry Collection Silk Eco or similar (1 night)
• Hanoi - Temple of Literature
• Hanoi - Lunch at KOTO
• Hanoi - Hoa Lo Prison

Today’s flight is approximately 1 hour and transfer from the airport is approximately 1 hour.

Set off on a tour of Hoi An’s Old Town and discover a blend of traditional treasures and cultural influences from historical traders. Your leader will discuss the city’s history as you wander the pagoda lined streets, visit a Chinese assembly hall, cross the Japanese Covered Bridge, enter the ornately decorated historic house of a former trader and check out a local museum. Hoi An was once a great trading port for pottery, and centuries-old pottery villages still exist to this day. No trip to Vietnam is complete without trying its famed coffee. Your leader will take you to a local coffee shop, where you can savor a delicious coffee of your choice as you watch the hustle and bustle of Hoi An pass you by. Perhaps try a traditional egg coffee - the addition of condensed milk and egg white make this caffeinated beverage into a frothy treat, or a refreshing coconut coffee. Your afternoon is free for your own explorations.

• Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
• Hoi An - Farm to Table dining experience at Tra Que Village and Mua restaurant - USD84

The morning is free for you to enjoy more of delightful Hoi An and the surrounding area. Perhaps browse the market for silk and other materials or collect any garments that you might have had crafted by the efficient tailors, or hire a bicycle and ride along the lanes and out to a nice nearby beach. Your leader will have great recommendations for places to eat and drink. In the afternoon, transfer back to Danang and fly to Ho Chi Minh City. Check into your hotel and enjoy a free evening – the bustling food stalls at Cho Ben Thanh market might beckon you over with the sweet and savoury aromas of pho and bun mam. Delicious!

• Paragon Saigon Hotel or similar (1 night)

Today’s flight is approximately 1 hour and transfer to the airport is approximately 1 hour. Rooms at the Ramada Encore, and in Ho Chi Minh City in general, are compact given the building style and central location.

Head out of the city to the nearby Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network dug by the Viet Minh and later expanded by the Viet Cong. Enter a widened section of the tunnels with your leader who will help you imagine what life underground must have been like and explain how the tunnels contained hospitals, accommodation and schools, and were used for refuge, storage and as a military base for the Viet Cong. Return to Ho Chi Minh City for a tour of the dynamic city where daily life plays out on the streets. Your leader will take you to the Reunification Palace, formally the Presidential Palace and the site of South Vietnam’s surrender in 1975, before visiting the War Remnants Museum. In the evening, perhaps spend some time with your fellow travellers and enjoy a final dinner at a local restaurant. Your leader will know of some wonderful options.

• Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels
• Ho Chi Minh City - Reunification Palace
• Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum
• Ho Chi Minh City - Notre Dame Cathedral

Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you wish to spend some more time in Ho Chi Minh city, we would be happy to organise additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

• Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Discovery Urban Adventure - USD73

18 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners

Boat, Plane, Private Minibus, Train, Bicycle

Hotel (15 nights), Lodge (2 nights), Overnight boat (1 night)

• Arrival airport transfer
• Tipping for accommodation, activities and transport
• Luggage transfer
• Daily breakfast and signature local meal experiences
• 24/7 on-ground support

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes the Halong Bay boat overnight where you will be in shared accommodation, and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.  3. This trip includes domestic and international flights as indicated on the trip map. The luggage allowance is 20kg for check in luggage and 7kg for carry on. 4. Full name exactly as per passport required at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on the passport), for internal flights. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket. 5. Due to limited luggage space in our vehicles, please ensure that you are packing light and compact. Large, bulky suitcases are unsuitable for this trip. Please refer to the Packing section of the Essential Trip Information for details.  6. Local authorities only permit a limited number of boats to stay overnight in Halong Bay. To ensure all travellers can be accommodated on board available boats, on rare occasions you may stay on a larger boat and share your boat with another group. Otherwise, we may swap the activities and destinations of Days 13 and 14 to provide you the best possible experience. The route taken and inclusions on board will remain the same. 7. Flight schedules within South East Asia are currently limited. Whenever possible, you will be on a direct fight. However, some flights may require a stop. 8. On the TTPVC231111 and TTPVC231114 departures, the Thailand Feature Stay will be Sibsan Resort, rather than Lisu Lodge, in Mae Taeng.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Vietnam & Thailand Tours

Visiting Vietnam is ideal to discover this beautiful country with picturesque landscapes. You will have an exciting chance to learn all of the highlights of Vietnam and experience culture, history, cuisine, and customs as Halong Bay – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An – An ancient town and the never sleep city – Ho Chi Minh City. And then you take an international flight to Thailand – Smile Country. Whether its magnificent temples, religious atmosphere, beautiful beaches, or exotic history and culture have attracted more and more people to explore this magic country. Let Style Travel guide you through several combined tours in Vietnam & Thailand to make your trip more charming and wonderful.

When is the best time to visit Vietnam & Thailand?

The best time for visiting Vietnam and Thailand is from October to April. The temperature is cool; the sky is clear from north to south in Vietnam. Meanwhile, the west coast of Thailand is more advantageous when compared to the east coast – the majority of the year is pleasant for travelers.

What are the top places that you should not miss when taking a tour to Vietnam & Thailand ?

Hanoi, Vietnam's capital and second-largest metropolis, is the country's political, economic, and cultural hub. Hanoi is a historic metropolis with traditions dating back over 1,000 years. The city contains several areas of ancient importance and beautiful scenery, earning it the moniker "land of millennium cultural relics."

The splendor of nature and artistic significance of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a magnificent jewel in Vietnam's tiara. Visiting this area is like entering into a fairy tale, the stuff of tales, with dozens of towering limestone islands, karst grottoes, and quaint junk boats cruising the brilliant emerald waters.

Hoi An is a popular tourist attraction with a 1,500-year heritage. Therefore, Hoi An Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was previously named one of the top 10 tourist cities in Asia, attracting visitors from all over the world with its long white-sand beaches and many interesting activities.

Contrasting to the bright lights, swift pace, and loudness of certain Asian megacities, Bangkok's more laid-back feel and easily navigable public transit. Besides, the golden chedi of Buddhist temples and wats that provide seclusion around the city spring up among supermarkets and skyscraper structures.

Chiang Mai, Thailand's second-largest city, is the opposite of Bangkok. It is surrounded on all sides by rainforests and situated between the country's northern mountains. Visitors to Chiang Mai frequently spend learning about the region's rich cuisine, relaxing in the simple lodgings, and viewing the historic temple ruins.

Phuket Island

Phuket Island, which is situated on the sea trading route between China and India, is a fusion of several civilizations that have left their imprints. Due to the attractiveness of its amiably wonderful beaches and crystal-clear oceans, it is not only still the wealthiest district in Thailand but also vibrant and raucous.

The best itinerary for a Vietnam & Thailand tour?

You will first arrive in Ho Chi Minh City - the largest city in Vietnam with plenty of scenic spots and historical sites first. Then take a flight to Hoian to enjoy a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 1,500-year heritage then continue to take another flight to Hanoi - the country's political, economic, and cultural hub and Halong Bay - another UNESCO World Heritage Site and then transfer to Bangkok, Thailand. Here, there will be two options: Bangkok with Phuket if you are the people who prefer the beach or Bangkok with Chiang Mai if you are the people who prefer mountains & minority ethnic.

How many days should I spend for a tour to Vietnam & Thailand?

With a 7 – 10 days tour, Hanoi, Halong Bay (Vietnam), and Bangkok (Thailand) are the three best destinations for choosing on this trip. If you have 4, 5 days more, you can add Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam or Phuket (if you are keen on the beach) or Chiang Mai (if you prefer the mountain) in Thailand. In case you have a 15 – 20 days tour or more, you absolutely can visit Ninh Binh, Hue, and Mekong Delta in Vietnam and Phuket, Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai together.

Tour map, brief itinerary and estimated number of days for a Vietnam & Thailand typical tour

Thailand & Vietnam Tours

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Merchants glide along canals and host a colorful display of goods while aromas from tantalizing dishes permeate through the air. Jungle scenes abundant with life confounds the imagination as wild nature lies beyond the brush. From city to jungle, a Thailand & Vietnam Ziccaso tour presents the opportunity to discover magnanimous cultures and astounding adventure.

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15  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,895

Thailand and Vietnam seem to have it all, especially when it’s your first trip to Asia. The bustling cities offer endless sights and impressions. Quiet white-sand beaches backdropped by jungle. Superlative landscapes, atmospheric temples, night markets, Cu Chi Tunnels, historic city quarters and a world wonder that’s never changed. Tailored for first-time visitors, this classic two-week tour is full of inside experiences and highlights. Zicasso offers a variety of Thailand and Vietnam tours. Be sure to browse the trips reviews for Thailand and Vietnam.

Awaken your senses through the flavors of traditional herbs and spices in this exclusive culinary tour of Thailand and Vietnam. As you discover the origins of the Sriracha sauce by learning how to make it at its birthplace in Si Racha, Thailand, your culinary exploration will celebrate the gastronomic roots that are shared across borders revealing the varying degrees of flavors. With many kitchens moving away from their heritage in an attempt to embody sophistication, your journey will hone in on the delicate balance between tradition and elegance. From dining in chic restaurants to discovering popular eateries hidden in alleyways, your personal guides will unveil the true essence of Thailand and Vietnam’s culinary delights as you discover the spirit of Sriracha.

21  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,455

Imperial cities, ancient temples, superlative landscapes, and tribal villages. This is just the start of your heritage and highlights exploration of Vietnam and Thailand. Expect to see monkeys, enigmatic cities, war histories, and mysterious river caves. Spanning 3,000 years and over a dozen unique destinations, this three-week tour celebrates the famous and unknown wonders of two remarkable nations. It’s handcrafted for those who want to crave exploring the past and present history of these countries. Zicasso offers a variety of Thailand and Vietnam tours. Be sure to browse the trips reviews for Thailand and Vietnam.

13  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,375

Different taste buds are aroused each day on this culinary tour of Thailand and Vietnam. Exotic spices tingle on the tongue. Aromatic freshness dominates local markets. Cuisine connects culture and history, creating a story to every bite. This journey isn’t just what you taste, but the people you eat with and the gastronomy you learn. Featuring street food, fine dining, master cooking classes, and regional specialties welcome to one of the world’s greatest gastronomic regions. To discover other itineraries that might better fit your dream Thailand and Vietnam vacation, take a look at our Thailand and Vietnam page for more itineraries and tours.

The majesty of Thailand and Vietnam are set upon the riverbanks and beyond the shores that have cast myths and captured imaginations for centuries. Watch as the colors of the landscapes and the textures of temples, the grandeur of the Thai Palace to the simplicity of Ho Chi Minh’s home, are placed against the backdrop of rushing rivers, serene ponds, and immaculate oceans. Whether floating along the water or watching it from a distance, on this custom tailored tour through Thailand and Vietnam, their splendor is sure to captivate you.

Vietnam and Thailand both abound with stories and mysteries that continue to unfold. With landscapes of karst and caves, ancient temples of meditative bliss, enigmatic backstreets of sizzling food and unknown art all around, your eyes will struggle with where to look as you take it all in. Unwrap the secrets on this two-week insiders’ tour with superb local guides leading you through seven idiosyncratic destinations. Including two luxury cruises, this is a journey of history, heritage, wild landscapes, and cultural connections.

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14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,097

A feast for the senses and a banquet for young eyes, Thailand and Vietnam can be both exotic and easy when traveling as a family. Handcrafted to entertain intrepid the young, and the young at heart, this family adventure takes you from elephants to evening markets, monks to monkeys, historical temples to dazzling city streets. Jump in and indulge the mind, but also jump away from the everyday routines in dramatic fashion as you relax in the jungle and float down rivers. Two weeks, five stops, and incredible memories are all ahead.

20  Day Custom Tour

Indulge in diverse flavors and embrace luxury during your ultimate culinary tour of Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. From secret island getaways to imperial delights, the cuisine that reveals the history of where regional flavors meet French technique, you will discover and experience the endless treasures of local gastronomy across Southeast Asia. You can find traditional recipes and contemporary aesthetics, private multi-course meals, and organic farming perspectives to uncover surprising diversity and fabulous elegance during your culinary trip of a lifetime through Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

11  Day Custom Tour

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Southeast Asia has always had a sense of mystique and exoticness that has allured much of the world. This is your chance to experience the splendor of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam first-hand, where the majesty is no longer in the rumors of temples and palaces, tunnels and floating markets, but within your reach. Discover the shrines hidden in the jungle brush; taste the vibrancy of the local delicacies; mingle with protected Asian elephants; explore Southeast Asia on this custom tailored tour that will bring you the thrill of the exotic.

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Explore the depths of Vietnamese culture and the furthest reaches of the country’s sensational scenery in Hanoi and the emerald island garden of Ha Long Bay on this custom 13-day tour. Embrace northern Thai Khmer heritage in Chiang Mai before venturing south to the pristine pearl-white beaches of Khao Lak and Phuket. Experience the best of both on this vacation to Vietnam and Thailand’s coveted destinations.

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Mysteries are unearthed at the Angkor temples and in old city quarters while spirituality is found in Thai monasteries and local connections. Journeys range from rice paddies to thick jungle, cruising through limestone karst, and drifting through a city. Welcome to the grand highlights of Southeast Asia, a two-week tour of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. Fly between the iconic destinations to explore with passionate local guides in one of the world’s great travel regions.

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The marvelous histories and diverse cultures of Southeast Asia shine during your custom-tailored tour of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Revel and the combination of ancient and modern worlds while strolling through historic temples. Witness preserved artworks depicting wrathful gods, epic heroes, and vengeful demons. View the ineffable beauty of sunrise over Angkor Wat. Explore the harmonious grounds of the Thai Royal Palace. Visit the impressive mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh. Whether traveling an arm of the Mekong River or enjoying a view to a historic pagoda from an imperial compound, your Southeast Asia tour immerses you in cultural majesty.

17  Day Custom Tour

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Immerse yourself in the cultural charms and historic atmosphere of Thailand and Vietnam on this explorer’s dream vacation for 17 days. The exquisitely flavorful northern Thai cuisine is best enjoyed in the tribal villages sprawling the hills around Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, the spirit of Thailand comes to life in the temples of Bangkok, and the whimsy of the country’s wilderness unfolds across Khao Yai National Park.

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Explore the bustling capital cities of Vietnam and Thailand, Hanoi and Bangkok, for lavish adventures and unique experiences within sparkling cosmopolitans and retreat to the forested mountains of Northern Thailand’s Chiang Mai region as well as the pearly coastlines of Phuket island on this quintessential 14-day tour of Southeast Asia’s highlights. From culinary classes to boat cruises, Southeast Asia is brimming with adventure.

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• 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour

Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam are the most popular destinations for a first visit to SE Asia. In this 2-week tour, you will see Thailand's highlights in Bangkok and Chiang Mai , experience Vietnam's essence from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh , and explore Cambodia's spirituality around iconic Angkor Wat .

It is a private tour and can be customized just for you . We can add beach time or anything you're interested in, meet your schedule by adding/cutting days , organize a special theme or activities for a birthday, a family with children, a honeymoon/anniversary , etc.

• Best for: first-timers
• Departure date: up to you
• Sample price: US$3,439 each (2 per room)*
• Flights: SE Asia's included (international on request)

* The price is based on a private tour for 2 people. The cost for a customized private SE Asia tour from US$200 /person/day

Thailand Vietnam Cambodia Tour Map (Suggested Route)

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Tour Highlights

Here are the awesome attractions, the most must-do activities selected by Asia Highlights (AH Hand-Picked) , and exclusive cultural experiences offered by Asia Highlights (Only With AH) included in this tour:

Discover Bangkok's charm through a vibrant tapestry of experiences

Interact with the amazing elephants in a way of responsible travel ., listen to the daily monk chanting for peace at wat suan dok., join locals in a morning alms-giving ceremony., pedal a cyclo through hanoi's old quarter., indulge in the extraordinary seascape of ha long bay on our selected overnight cruise ., navigate the mekong delta's labyrinthine canals in a traditional sampan ., venture into the heart of siem reap and explore the ancient soul of angkor wat ., chase breathtaking sunsets on a quad adventure ride through the countryside., suggested itinerary for inspiration.

Normally the full-day guided tour starts from 9 am and ends around 5 pm. Your preferences design the real journey. The days, stops, and travel pace can be adjusted. We're ready to create a unique Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam trip for you.

• Upon arrival, your guide and driver will greet you at the airport and drive you to the hotel.

Take the rest of the day off to recover from jetlag or wander around your hotel.

• Visit the Hanoi's top attractions, including the memorable Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, historic Temple of Literature , unique One Pillar Pagoda , and informative Vietnam Museum of Ethnology .
• Take a leisurely cyclo ride through the Old Quarter to experience the daily life of Hanoians.
• Enjoy an entertaining water puppet performance , a uniquely northern Vietnamese art form.
• After breakfast, you will be transferred from Hanoi to Halong Bay.
• Board your junk cruise at noon. This smaller craft is both more intimate and authentic than the usual group-tour boats.
• Swim in the emerald waters of Tra Bau in Lan Ha Bay.
• Join in interesting activities on board, such as cooking demonstrations and squid fishing.
• Taste exquisite drinks and savor delicious food on board while enjoying the spectacular views.
• In the morning, kayak in the Ao Ech area to discover Ha Long's hidden charm — Lan Ha Bay.
• After brunch, transfer from Halong Bay back to Hanoi for your onward flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
• Upon arrival, your guide and driver will meet you at the airport and drive you to the hotel.
• In the morning, embark on a speedboat journey to the renowned Cu Chi Tunnels . Within just 15 minutes of cruising, you'll witness the transition from city buildings to lush jungle along the riverbanks.
• The hidden and winding Cu Chi Tunnels stand testament to the resilience of the Vietnamese during hardship.
• In the afternoon, visit the must-sees of the city,  Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office,and Reunification Palace.
• Continue to the  War Remnants Museum. The massive, old military equipment in the museum remind us of the cruelties of war.
• Drive from Ho Chi Minh City to Cai Be, situated in the heart of Mekong Delta. Be greeted by lush paddy fields, fresh tropical fruits, stilt houses, and fish farms.
• Take a motorboat ride  though waterways to experience the Delta scenery, including a once-bustling floating market that is now smaller.
• Have a leisurely sampan ride on picturesque canals.
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City in late afternoon.
• Transfer to airport and catch your onward flight to Siem Reap.
• Upon your arrival in Siem Reap, meet your local guide and transfer to hotel.
• Cross the ancient moat and venture into the heart of Angkor Wat .
• Look back on the illustrious achievements of the Khmer Empire while strolling through Angkor Thom .
• Uncover the story of Bayon and greet its smiling faces, guarding the imperial city in the long river of history.
• Wander around Ta Prohm in the shadow of towering trees, and witness their giant roots devouring the ruins.
• Cross the extraordinary Preah Khan and immerse yourself in its grandeur.
• Visit Banteay Srei , which is the jewel of Khmer art.
• Stop by at the Land Mine Museum , where you will be touched by the persistence of Cambodian efforts to clear life-threatening land mines.
• Explore a less-known ruin, Banteay Samre .
• Take a quad adventure ride through the countryside to capture the breathtaking sunset view.
• Take the rest of the day off to wander around your hotel.
• Start your tour with the Wat Pho temple complex when the morning sunlight touches the robes of monks and the hall echoes with chanting.
• Visit to the landmark of Bangkok, Grand Palace . Take a long-tail boat ride through the ancient canals to Wat Arun .
• Explore the old but bustling market of China Town at your own pace, and experience a different side of Bangkok.

Make your way north to Chiang Mai, and be dazzled by its beauty. Private airport transfers are provided in both cities.

• Get up early in the morning, for a unique and culturally immersive experience, join locals in an alms-giving ceremony .
• Drive to Doi Suthep and visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep , a revered temple in northern Thailand.
• Next, walk through the iconic Wat Chedi Luang , a historic temple that once housed the Emerald Buddha before it was relocated to Bangkok's Wat Phra Kaew.
• Finally, find peace at Wat Suan Dok , a serene temple known for its tranquil gardens and daily monk chanting sessions.
• Spend half a day caring for the elephants at Kanta Elephant Sanctuary .Accompanied by your guide, you'll walk through the Sanctuary, encountering elephants roaming freely and learning their unique stories.
• Observe the elephants engage in their natural behaviors, including feeding, playing, and socializing. You may also be able to capture photos and ask your guide questions about their individual stories.
• Observe elephants get muddy as a healthy cosmetic treatment to their skin.
• Following their mud bath, walk with them to a nearby river and watch them wade, play, and swim in the refreshing water . You can even join them for a dip!

Your guide will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight back home.

Ideas for Making This Trip Uniquely Yours

Special experiences can be added to brighten a honeymoon trip, a family vacation, a birthday, or satisfy personal interests.

Hand-Picked Hotels

We select hotels with style and local features. Let us know your preferences and we'll find your ideal hotel.

Tour Price:

• The price is based on a private tour for 2 people during the low season.
• The price varies based on program, travel date, number of people.
• We could also price a tour including both 4-star and 5-star hotels for you.
• The price for a child younger than 8 is approximately 80% of the adult's price.
• We accept payments in multiple currencies (GBP, AUD, CAD, EUR...).

Price Includes:

• Privately-driven air-conditioned vehicle with ample space (except where stated)
• English-speaking local guide for the sightseeing
• Attraction tickets and itinerary activities
• Accommodation for all nights
• Flights/trains between itinerary cities
• Hotel breakfasts and itinerary lunches/dinners
• 24/7 helpline while touring
• Governmental taxes

Price Excludes:

• International flights not mentioned in the itinerary
• Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
• Overweight luggage more than 20 kg per person
• Visa fee, if applicable
• Tips for guides and drivers
• Personal expenses

Tour code: ah-mtc-2

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Experience Vietnam differently. Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences and uncover local secrets when our friends across the country open their doors to you. Here’s just a sample of the rich experiences you can expect.

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"Vietnam is home to some incredible natural wonders, from the world's largest cave and the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia, to the mighty Mekong River and the iconic Ha Long Bay."

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Take a dreamy Halong Bay cruise

Board a traditional Vietnamese junk boat and cruise the emerald waters and limestone karsts of Halong Bay. We’ll visit Tien Ong Cave and Cua Van Fishing Village, enjoy a swim at one of the golden beaches, then watch a cooking demonstration and the dazzling sunset on the boat, where we’ll sleep for the night.

Enjoy a Water Puppet performance in a local theater

The Water Puppet performance is a northern Vietnamese art form, which paints the story of rural life in Vietnam a thousand years ago. The puppeteers stand in waist-high water to represent flooded rice fields and you’ll be swept up in the legends they tell through their dancing puppets.

Visit Cua Van Fishing Village

We’ll visit the ancient Cua Van Fishing Village on our Halong Bay cruise, and stop to meet the locals who live in the traditional floating houses. It’s the largest fishing village in Halong Bay, with around 180 floating houses set on gentle waters surrounded by beautiful limestone mountains.

Help local farmers in Thanh Dong Organic Village

Our Local Specialists will take you to Thanh Dong Organic Village in Hoi An, where you’ll meet the local farmers and spend time learning about their daily working routines. You’ll also get to help the farmers in the garden and discover their unique methods that leave a positive impact on their environment.

Visit the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel in Hue

Jump on the back of a cyclo and take a journey to the Imperial Citadel in Hue, the former capital and home of the Nguyen emperors. You can enter the large square fortress and explore the ancient palaces and temples, and we’ll even take you inside the Purple Forbidden City.

Our top 5 things to do in Vietnam

Our Vietnam vacation packages reveal the magic of the country, from the magnificent Halong Bay and the ancient citadel of Hue, to the local farmers in Hoi An.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Located in Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is the final resting place of President Ho Chi Minh, the iconic Vietnamese Revolutionary leader. Known to his people as ‘Uncle Ho’, his body is preserved in a glass case and protected by a military honor guard.

Temple of Literature

One of Hanoi’s most beautiful sites, the Temple of Literature is an ancient complex built in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius and scholars. It’s also home to the Imperial Academy, Vietnam’s first university and you can see the historic pavilions, turtle steles, courtyards, a lake of literature and the Well of Heavenly Clarity.

My Son Temples

The My Son Temples are a complex of ancient Hindu temples, built between the 4th and 14th century to worship the god Shiva. It was once the site of royal religious ceremonies and the burial place for Cham royalty, and today you can explore the ruins of this UNESCO-listed site.

Best museums in Vietnam

Our Vietnam escorted tours will reveal the country’s best museums, from the ancient My Son Temples to the resting place of President Ho Chi Minh.

One of Vietnam’s most famous dishes, pho is a noodle soup that’s loved all over the world. It’s made from a slow-stewed beef broth poured over rice noodles, and topped with slices of chicken or beef. You can also add a variety of herbs, sauces and chilli to your tastes.

Also known as rice paper spring rolls, goi cuon are light and fresh rolls with plenty of flavor. A rice paper wrapping is filled with bean sprouts, lettuce, meat or tofu and other crunchy vegetables. It’s best served with a sweet or spicy sauce for dipping.

Banh xeo is a thin crepe filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts and fresh herbs. It’s a classic northern Vietnamese dish with French influences, and the best way to eat it is cut it up in bite-sized pieces, roll it up in lettuce leaves and dunk it into the zesty side sauces.

Best food in Vietnam

An organised trip to Vietnam with Trafalgar will ensure you taste the best of Vietnam’s incredible cuisine, from warm bowls of pho to fresh goi cuon rolls.

What to pack for Vietnam

Adaptor plug

In Vietnam, the standard voltage is 110 / 220 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type A, C and D. The standard frequency is 50 Hz.

Reef-safe sunscreen & insect repellent

Protect yourself from the harsh sun with SPF 30 or higher and protect the reefs with reef-safe sunscreen. You’ll also need to pack some DEET insect repellent to avoid any nasty bites.

Vietnam is lined with spectacular sandy beaches, and you’ll also need a swimsuit for swimming in the turquoise waters of Halong Bay.

Versatile clothing

Vietnam is a massive country with a myriad of climates, from the chilly northern mountains to the blazing southern jungles. Pack versatile layers to be prepared for all weather.

Vietnamese phrasebook

Learning a few Vietnamese words and phrases can be a rewarding part of your trip and will help you to have more enriching encounters with the locals.

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Want to discover the best Vietnamese foodie secrets?

Into the Heart of Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Tour

Vietnam,cambodia,thailand.

Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand are three of the most alluring countries in Southeast Asia. Our 12-day package is well designed to take you through the marvels of culture, history and wildlife, the incomparable landscapes, and the endless wonder to explore. From the legendary Halong Bay, the ancient cities and hidden temples in Cambodia, to the incredible hill tribes and elephant camp in Thailand, you will find the unique and the treasured, the fabled and the masterful as if were created just for you. Hidden within the spectacular flavors or wondrous gastronomy, you will discover surprises and find experience is the ultimate reward.

Customers' Recent Experience With This Tour

Inclusions of this tour

Accommodation.

Hotel (10 nights), Cruise (1 night)

Car, Cruise, Flight ...

Private Guide, Driver, Trip Managing Expert

11 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 3 Dinners

Experiences

11 Unique experiences...

Entrance fees, excursions, visa, water...

Highlights Of This Tour

Enjoy Water Puppet Show - the traditional art performance

Tour around Hanoi Old Quarter by cyclo

Cruising on Halong bay - the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam

Land in the Angkor Complex and other religious sites and enjoy its unique architecture - kingdom of wonders

Discover the floating life in Tonle Lake

Tour around Bangkok’s most famous temples and palaces

Learn to cook famous Thai dishes in Silom Thai Cooking

Explore Chiang Mai city highlights by TukTuk

Visit Elephant village, short trek through jungle in Chiang Mai

Overview of this tour

Into the Heart of Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Tour - 12 days

• Day 1 : Hanoi
• Day 2 : Hanoi
• Day 3 : Hanoi,Halong Bay
• Day 4 : Halong Bay,Hanoi
• Day 5 : Hanoi,Siem Reap
• Day 6 : Siem Reap
• Day 7 : Siem Reap
• Day 8 : Siem Reap,Bangkok
• Day 9 : Bangkok
• Day 10 : Bangkok,Chiang Mai
• Day 11 : Chiang Mai
• Day 12 : Chiang Mai

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: hanoi, day 2: hanoi, day 3: hanoi, halong bay, day 4: halong bay, hanoi, day 5: hanoi, siem reap, day 6: siem reap, day 7: siem reap, day 8: siem reap, bangkok, day 9: bangkok, day 10: bangkok, chiang mai, day 11: chiang mai, day 12: chiang mai, inclusions & exclusions.

Car, Cruise, Flight

1. Fly to Siem Reap

2. Fly to Bangkok

3. Fly to Chiang Mai

4. Tour around Chiang Mai

Included Services

Hotel accommodation with daily breakfast

03 in-tour flights: Hanoi - Siem Reap, Siem Reap - Bangkok, Bangkok - Chiang Mai

Local English-speaking guides

Accommodation in cosy double or twin bedded cabins

Meals as mentioned in the itinerary

Mineral water placed in your cabin

Side trips on sampans as mentioned in the itineraries

International flights to/from Vietnam

Travel insurance

Visa stamp fees

Early check-in & late check-out surcharge

Personal expenses

Meals not mentioned

Drinks not mentioned

Tips & gratuities for guides and drivers

All other services not mentioned above

THIS TOUR IS PRIVATE & TAILOR-MADE CHOOSE YOUR BEST CHOICE

3* Hotel (10 nights), Cruise (1 night)

Private Guide, Driver, Trip Manager

4* Hotel (10 nights), Cruise (1 night)

5* Hotel (10 nights), Cruise (1 night)

100% Personalized Itinerary

Hassle-free and uniquely personalized! You'll get a completely flexible trip plan tailored to your individual interests, wishes and budget. Our Inside Travel Experts will give you professional advice, and it's you who decides how many days to travel, where to visit and where to stay.

Private Guide, Car & Driver

You always have private driver & private car flexible upon your travel schedules. Especially, in your Private Tour, our experienced and knowledgeable private guide will show you the hidden gems and inspire you with the most interesting local stories to gain a more in-depth understanding of each exotic country.

Handpicked Hotels & Meals

Whether you are looking for a romantic resort or a boutique hotel, authentic cuisine or street food style; our Asia Tour Experts'll create the lifetime journey around your needs & wants with our best hand-picked collection of accommodation and restaurants.

Trip Managing Experts

Travelling with us means having a dedicated, friendly & professional team by your side every step of the way and always ready to help whenever you need. Our Inside Travel Experts are available 24/7 and take care of everything to make sure you can enjoy the travel experience of a lifetime and get unforgettable memories.

Experiences You can Expect in this Tour

Watching authentic Water Puppet Show in Hanoi

Vietnamese Water Puppet Show is a traditional folk art which dates back several centuries. Watching the exceptional show with the puppet moving through water by the skillful puppeters will be a...

Great time to exploring the rich history and culture of Capital Hanoi

Hanoi - a blend between the traditional and the modern beauties - a sedate capital with rich history and the unique architecture from East to West welcomes you. Ho Chi Minh complex with the...

Experience kayaking in the beautiful Halong Bay

When in Halong Bay - the World Natural Heritage recognized by UNESCO, you should not miss the chance to join the outdoor activities to explore the beautiful nature in exciting experience. Kayaking is...

Relaxing in Halong Bay with excellent Cruise Accommodation

Known as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, Halong bay is must for visitors when going to Vietnam. Speding time on your holiday to join to a cruise trip in the spectacular bay, you will...

Visiting stunning caves in Halong Bay

Every visitors who come to Vietnam should never miss Halong Bay. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage, Halong Bay will amaze you by not only the magnificet natural scenery but also by...

Immersing yourself in a traditional dinner with Apsara Dance

When in Cambodia, don’t forget to give yourself at least an hour to immerse through the traditional dinner with ancient art of Apsara Dance. Starting by the movements with deftness and...

Splendor Trip to Religious Angkor Wat

Regarded as the largest religious structure in the world, Angkor Wat (Siem Reap, Cambodia) steals travelers’ heart by the astonishing vast and amazing landscape. A wonderful experience to watch the...

Relaxing in the floating experience in Tonle Sap lake

Siem Reap – one of the most popular destination of Cambodia has no shortage of unique charms — from Khmer classical ruins temples to a UNESCO World Heritage Angkor Wat— and it has been luring...

Get an insightful and fabulous day touring Bangkok

Welcome to Bangkok – The capital of Thailand. Nothing is better to feel the real life in this city than spending a day touring around Bangkok in a clean and comfortable air conditioned van...

Experience exciting Silom Thai Cooking in Bangkok

Silom Thai Cooking School caters to people with keen interests in food and culture. Learn to cook famous Thai dishes in a relaxed and friendly environment. Small classes ( only maximum of 9 - 10...

Doi Suthep Temple - The most sacred temples in Chiang Mai

Located at 15 kilometers from the city of Chiang Mai and situated at an elevation of 1,073 meters, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of northern Thailand's most sacred temples. From the temple,...

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Southeast Asia

From cruises along the Perfume River in Hué, through the klongs of Bangkok, and on Siem Reap's Tonle Sap Lake... to the temples of Angkor... as you marvel at the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok... our Southeast Asia tours immerse you in a destination that truly personifies exotic travel.

• ITINERARIES
• FEATURED TOURS

Welcome to Southeast Asia

Marvel at the rich tapestry of Southeast Asia... it's ancient temples, palaces, and picturesque villages... shrouded by the mists of time and the impenetrable rainforests. From the patchworks of rice paddies to ethereal mountains and colonial cities... these lands entice with understated beauty.

Discovering the incredible legacies of civilizations past in cambodia.

One of Cambodia's greatest treasures, the fabled archaeological site at Angkor covers an area twice the size of New York's Manhattan Island! This UNESCO World Heritage Site – which you'll visit on your Cambodian travels with Tauck – contains hundreds of temples and palaces built by the Khmer people between the 9th and 15th centuries, all shrouded by jungle until the 19th century. Its wonders include the vast, 12th-century Angkor Wat temple, a significant religious center through the ages, with walls covered by inspiring bas-reliefs and devatas (guardian spirits); the walled city of Angkor Thom, home to the richly decorated Bayon Temple and the Elephant Terrace; and fascinating Ta Prohm Temple, originally a Buddhist university and monastery, now enveloped by centuries-old jungle roots and vines, and virtually a part of the dense rainforest that surrounds it.

A land of contrasts with a history of conflicts and strong cultural traditions... experience today's Vietnam with Tauck

Currently experiencing a period of peace and stability after decades of colonialism and conflict, Vietnam is a nation of contrasts, with a long and often turbulent history, and strong cultural traditions that have endured for centuries. Exploring today's Vietnam with Tauck – both in the countryside and in cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), Hué, Da Nang and Hoi An – you'll discover poignant reminders of war, like the Cu Chi Tunnels and the notorious Hoa Lo Prison… witness the legacy of peace as you visit a kindergarten in Da Nang… enjoy an enchanting water puppet performance, an art form unique to Vietnam and popular since the 18th century... and experience life along the country's historic waterways on an overnight cruise among the limestone islets of Vietnam's majestic Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known in local legend as the "Bay of the Descending Dragons."

The ancient and the modern (and more) in Thailand

Thailand is an intriguing mix of the ancient and the modern, the futuristically urban and the traditionally rural, the dizzying whirl of contemporary life and the tranquility of the ages… all of which you'll experience when you visit with Tauck. Nowhere are these contrasts more evident than in the remarkable capital city, Bangkok… home to some of the most stunningly modern architecture in the world… centuries-old palaces and temples sheltering Buddhas from Emerald to Giant to Reclining… and the klongs, the bustling canals where much of the city's daily life takes place. Elsewhere, in countryside villages outside the city of Chiang Mai, the people of the region's rural hill tribes observe traditional ways of life; each has its own language, customs and crafts, and is happy to share them with visitors like you.

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Indochina: vietnam, cambodia & laos, vietnam, cambodia & thailand, traveling with tauck, never settle for ordinary.

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  'The Curious' Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand Suggested Itinerary  

Buckle up: this incredible holiday has you hopping around Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand on an unforgettable journey.

Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Bangkok vie to be your favourite city on this wide-ranging itinerary, with urban adventures blended with a cruise through Halong Bay, temple discoveries in Siem Reap, and downtime on the beach in Phuket.

Recommended itinerary

Your incredible adventure begins in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, where you’ll be swept up in the melee of busy streets, fragrant with spices, riddled with scooters, and overlooked by a mix of architecture from occupations past. The Mövenpick Hotel will prove a soothing sanctuary to return to after you’ve spent a day with a private guide getting to know the city at your own pace and tailored to your interests.

Ho Chi Minh City

You’ll be collected from Hanoi for the four-hour drive to Halong Bay to board the elegant Au Co ship, where you’ll spend a night onboard. You’ll disembark to cycle to a village on Cat Ba Island and have the chance to swim in the lagoon around Viet Hai pier. Come morning, join guests on the deck for t'ai chi and a spot of kayaking before heading to Hanoi airport for your onward flight to Hoi An.

Your next three days are spent in a hotel dedicated to relaxation and wellbeing. And while the Almanity Hoi An Resort & Spa has plenty to keep you lingering, you won’t miss out on the sights of Hoi An. You’ll join a private guided walking tour to get your bearings, visit Cau Temple, and take a boat trip along the Thu Bon River.

Hoi An

Ho Chi Minh City

A flight from Hoi An brings you to the vivacious Ho Chi Minh City to spend three memorable nights in the city once known as Saigon. You’ll explore the city with a private guide on a tour tailored to you, whether you want to go places the locals love or see the main sights. A second day has you boarding a boat on the magnificent Mekong Delta to watch local life unfold on the riverbanks.

Mekong Delta

You’ll fly to Siem Reap, checking into Tara Angkor for two nights — ideally placed for temple discoveries. Spend a full day exploring the atmospheric highlights, from the South Gate of Angkor Thom to the Terrace of Elephants and Ta Prohm, where trees grow from the walls.

Ta Prohm

Things switch gears again when you fly to Bangkok, ready for three nights in this sensory city. You’ll explore all the main highlights one day and take a trip to the colourful and fragrant floating market the next. The Sindhorn Midtown Hotel will prove the perfect central base for your explorations.

Wat Arun Temple, Bangkok

Your adventure finishes with some well-deserved downtime on the beach in Phuket, where there are four nights to relax and reflect on your incredible holiday. But the excitement isn’t over — you’ll take a scenic cruise around the Phi Phi Islands to understand why this area of Thailand is so sought-after. The rest of the time is yours to relax in the jungle surroundings and golden sands of Marina Phuket Resort. Heavenly.

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Passing Thru Travel

Exploring 10 Lesser-Known Spots in Thailand, Vietnam, and Beyond – Hidden Gems of Southeast Asia 2024

Posted: February 20, 2024 | Last updated: February 20, 2024

Southeast Asia, a region celebrated for its bustling cities, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Beyond the well-trodden paths of Bangkok’s grand palaces and Bali’s sun-kissed beaches lie lesser-known spots that offer an authentic and enriching experience. This guide uncovers ten hidden gems across Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond, promising unique adventures and memories that last a lifetime.

Koh Mak, Thailand

In Koh Mak, you’ll discover a tranquil haven distinct from the typical tourist destinations. As you explore this serene island in the Gulf of Thailand, the calmness of the environment becomes palpable. It’s a place where the beaches remain unspoiled, showcasing their natural beauty with crystal-clear waters inviting you for a swim or a snorkel.

The laid-back vibe of the island resonates through every corner, from the gentle sway of palm trees to the unhurried pace of life of the locals. You can unwind in true solitude, with the quiet hum of nature as your backdrop, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the island’s rubber plantations and coconut groves on a rented bicycle.

When To Travel: November to February, when the weather is dry and pleasant.

How To Get There: Take a boat from Trat, which is accessible by bus from Bangkok.

Mai Chau, Vietnam

Mai Chau is in the midst of a peaceful valley, a world away from the bustling city life. This area is famed for its stilt houses, an architectural style that speaks volumes about the local culture. As you wander through the village, you’ll notice the vibrant customs and traditions that are still very much a part of daily life here.

The rural charm of Vietnam comes alive in Mai Chau, offering you a chance to experience a different, more tranquil way of life. The simplicity and hospitality of the local people add to the authenticity of your experience, making your stay both enriching and memorable.

Insider’s Tip: Visit local villages to see traditional weaving and embroidery.

When To Travel: March to April or September to November for the best climate.

How To Get There: A scenic 3-hour drive from Hanoi.

Koh Bulon, Thailand

On Koh Bulon, a small island nestled in the Andaman Sea, you’ll find an ideal escape for a digital detox. Here, the absence of cars and the tranquility of its streets instantly sets a tone of peace and quiet. As you step onto the island, you’re greeted by a sense of calm permeating the air.

The simplicity of life without the usual bustle of traffic or the constant buzz of technology allows you to reconnect with nature and yourself. It’s a place where your days can be spent enjoying the serene environment, listening to the gentle waves, and embracing the slow pace of island life, making Koh Bulon the perfect setting for anyone looking to step away from the digital world and indulge in the tranquility of nature.

Insider’s Tip: Enjoy snorkeling in the coral reefs surrounding the island.

When To Travel: November to April, avoiding the monsoon season.

How To Get There: Speedboat from Pak Bara Pier, reached by bus from Hat Yai.

Pu Luong, Vietnam

In Pu Luong, a nature reserve known for its spectacular landscapes, you’re treated to a feast of mountain vistas and terraced rice fields. This reserve stands out for its rich biodiversity, immersing you in an environment where nature’s beauty is on full display. As you trek through the reserve, the changing scenery — from lush greenery to traditional agricultural landscapes — provides a refreshing backdrop to your adventure.

The terraced fields, in particular, showcase an age-old farming practice that shapes the land into a stunning patchwork. This area is not just a treat for the eyes; it’s an opportunity to experience the tranquility of Vietnam’s rural heartland and to witness firsthand the harmony between humans and nature. Pu Luong’s natural beauty and peaceful ambiance make it a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking a serene getaway.

Insider’s Tip: Trekking and homestays offer immersive experiences in local hill tribe cultures.

When To Travel: May to September for lush landscapes post-rainy season.

How To Get There: 4 hours by road from Hanoi.

Koh Kood, Thailand

You’ll encounter an unspoiled natural environment on Koh Kood, Thailand’s fourth-largest island. This island is renowned for its raw beauty, encompassing everything from majestic waterfalls to ancient rainforests and tranquil beaches. As you explore, the diverse landscape offers a variety of experiences.

You can trek through dense rainforests, feeling the ancient trees’ presence and the untouched nature’s richness, or relax on serene beaches, where the gentle lapping of waves against the shore provides a calming soundtrack to your relaxation. The island’s waterfalls, hidden among the foliage, offer a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. Koh Kood is a destination where the simplicity and beauty of nature are at the forefront, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the more developed tourist areas.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Ao Salad fishing village for a glimpse into local life.

When To Travel: November to February for ideal beach weather.

How To Get There: Ferry from Trat, which is connected by bus to Bangkok.

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

In Ninh Binh, often referred to as the “Ha Long Bay on land,” you’ll find yourself amidst a landscape of striking limestone karsts reminiscent of its famous maritime counterpart. As you travel through this region, the impressive formations rise dramatically from the earth, creating a unique and captivating scenery.

The area is not just about natural beauty; it’s also steeped in history, with ancient temples dotting the landscape, offering you a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural past. The serenity of the rivers flowing through Ninh Binh adds to the peaceful atmosphere, allowing for tranquil boat rides that weave through the karsts, giving you a close-up view of this geological wonder.

This combination of natural splendor and historical significance makes Ninh Binh a must-visit destination for those seeking natural beauty and a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture.

Insider’s Tip: Explore Trang An by boat to see its magnificent caves and temples.

When To Travel: March to May, when nature is at its most vibrant.

How To Get There: 2-hour train ride from Hanoi.

Koh Yao Noi, Thailand

Situated between the well-known destinations of Phuket and Krabi, Koh Yao Noi stands out as a peaceful haven with a distinctly rural charm. As you arrive on the island, you’ll be greeted by a tranquil atmosphere, starkly contrasting to the bustling tourist hotspots nearby. This island is ideal if you’re looking for a place to unwind and enjoy a slower pace of life.

The local community maintains a traditional way of living, providing a unique opportunity to experience authentic Thai culture. The scenic beauty of Koh Yao Noi, with its unspoiled beaches and lush greenery, adds to the island’s appeal, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection. Whether you’re lounging by the sea, exploring the rural landscapes, or interacting with friendly locals, Koh Yao Noi offers a serene escape from the everyday hustle and bustle.

Insider’s Tip: Try the local seafood, freshly caught and deliciously prepared.

When To Travel: December to April for the best weather.

How To Get There: Ferry from Phuket or Krabi.

Ha Giang, Vietnam

In Ha Giang, a region known for its dramatic mountain passes and rich ethnic diversity, you’ll find an adventurer’s paradise and a cultural enthusiast’s dream. As you navigate the winding roads, each turn presents a new breathtaking view of steep hillsides and deep valleys, offering a thrilling experience for those who relish challenging drives or bike rides. This area is also a mosaic of diverse cultures, home to various ethnic groups with unique traditions and lifestyles.

Exploring Ha Giang, you can immerse yourself in these distinct cultures, gaining insights into the ways of life preserved for generations. Whether you’re trekking through remote villages, sampling local cuisines, or simply taking in stunning landscapes, Ha Giang offers a rich and authentic experience that connects you with nature and Vietnam’s cultural heritage.

Insider’s Tip: Take the breathtaking Ma Pi Leng Pass for stunning panoramic views.

When To Travel: October to April for clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

How To Get There: A 6-hour bus journey from Hanoi.

Koh Lanta, Thailand

Koh Lanta, a destination that strikes a perfect balance with its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and a laid-back atmosphere, is an ideal getaway for families and couples. As you explore the island, you’ll find picturesque and peaceful beaches, providing ample opportunities for relaxation or playful beach activities. The island’s interior, covered in dense forests, invites you to explore its natural beauty through hikes or guided tours, where the sounds of wildlife and the rustle of leaves create an immersive experience.

The laid-back vibe of Koh Lanta is one of its most appealing aspects, allowing you to enjoy a holiday at your own pace, whether that means lounging on the beach, enjoying local cuisine, or engaging in water sports. The welcoming and family-friendly environment of the island ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay for visitors of all ages, making it a delightful choice for a memorable vacation.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Lanta Animal Welfare center to learn about local wildlife conservation.

When To Travel: November to April, avoiding the rainy season.

How To Get There: Ferries from Krabi, Phuket, or Phi Phi Islands.

Con Dao Islands, Vietnam

In this archipelago, you’ll be introduced to a world of pristine beaches, a rich historical background, and abundant marine life, creating an ideal setting for eco-tourism. As you explore the islands, the untouched beaches offer a serene and natural beauty, ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape or a chance to connect with nature.

The area’s history is palpable, with remnants of the past waiting to be discovered, offering you a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage. The marine life here is particularly vibrant. It provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling or diving, where you can witness a diverse range of sea creatures in their natural habitat.

This focus on preserving the natural and historical aspects makes this archipelago a prime destination for eco-tourists keen on experiencing the environment responsibly while enjoying the unique offerings of this remarkable destination.

Insider’s Tip: Dive or snorkel to explore the stunning coral reefs.

When To Travel: February to July for the best underwater visibility.

How To Get There: Take a flight from Ho Chi Minh City or a ferry from Vung Tau.

The Bottom Line

Each Southeast Asian destination has its unique charm, offering more than just beautiful scenery. They are gateways to understanding diverse cultures, histories, and the warmth of local hospitality. Whether you’re an intrepid explorer or a leisure traveler, these hidden gems promise an unforgettable journey into the heart of Southeast Asia.

The post Exploring 10 Lesser-Known Spots in Thailand, Vietnam, and Beyond – Hidden Gems of Southeast Asia 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Preto Perola.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

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Concert Date and Time: 27 July 2024, Saturday 8PM Venue: Singapore Indoor Stadium A-mei's ASMeiR MAX 2024 World Tour is coming to Singapore - the only stop in Southeast Asia! Embarking on her tenth large-scale solo concert tour, the show promises a spectacular upgrade in every aspect. From state-of-the-art hardware equipment to captivating performance effects, it is sure to be unforgettable experience.

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The Vietage by Anantara Launches Second Luxury Railway Carriage Connecting Nha Trang and Quy Nhon in South Central Vietnam

The Vietage by Anantara announces the introduction of a second railway carriage, which will operate a daily return journey between Nha Trang and Quy Nhon commencing its first journey on 15 th May 2024.

Building on the resounding success of the existing carriage running every day between Da Nang and Quy Nhon, the new custom-designed addition will connect the renowned coastal city of Nha Trang served by Cam Ranh International Airport, offering timeless luxury travel experiences through South-Central Vietnam.

Heralding a new age of slow and sustainable travel, the five-hour journeys meander through the picturesque Vietnamese countryside, transporting guests into a world of glamour and nostalgia with all the comforts of modern luxury.

12 reservation-only seats in private booths of two blend sleek modern interiors with inspiration from Indochina, along with big picture windows to admire the stunning views. A trendy sit-up bar gives guests the chance to watch some mixology in action as the on-board hosts create rail-inspired cocktails and mocktails, while relaxation time beckons in the dedicated spa area for 15-minute head and shoulder treatments on the go.

An exclusively-curated and sumptuous afternoon tea experience takes guests on a culinary adventure, including poached Bai Dai Lobster and Da Lat Caviar to whet the appetite, a tea tower with selection of home-made finger sandwiches, pastries, cakes and traditional scones with all the trimmings. An artisanal cheese and charcuterie platter rounds off the occasion. A dedicated vegan menu is available to excite all plant lovers.

Refreshments come in the form of a distinctive tea selection from the Vietnamese tea brand Epicurean Sao, ethically-sourced local coffee from La Folliet, plus free-flowing wines, cocktails, beers, mocktails and soft drinks.

An à la carte menu also offers premium wines and champagnes for pre-order while caviar fans can purchase extra portions on board.  

Catch a glimpse of water buffalo, Vietnam’s national animal, as the train makes its way through the country’s landscape, along with a plethora of lotus ponds, rice paddies and plenty of flora and fauna. Striking stretches of coastline fronting the East Sea and expansive bays are also not to be missed, after which the train heads more inland into the mountainous province of Phú Yên, which is home to one of the country’s Champa people communities and many historical points of interest.

While not visible from the railway itself, the train passes nearby Vietnam’s oldest lighthouse, Mui Dien, which sits at the easternmost point of the country making it the first place to witness the sunrise. Continuing its northerly track through the province’s capital city of Tuy Hòa, Vietnam’s longest wooden bridge, Bình Thạnh Bridge at 800 metres in length, is a gateway to some other local notable landmarks.

Guests travelling from Nha Trang to Quy Nhon can enjoy combination accommodation experiences with Anantara Quy Nhon Villas for a luxury beachside retreat. For the ultimate Vietnam itinerary, jump on board The Vietage by Anantara running from Quy Nhon to Da Nang and enjoy the charming Hoi An Ancient Town with a stay at Anantara Hoi An Resort.

A one-way ticket aboard The Vietage by Anantara between Nha Trang and Quy Nhon costs US$ 420 per person, including luxury afternoon tea, a 15-minute head and shoulder treatment, free-flowing wines, cocktails, beers, mocktails, soft drinks and a selection of local tea and coffee.

The Vietage by Anantara departs from Nha Trang every afternoon arriving at Dieu Tri station in Quy Nhon in the evening. It then continues up to Da Nang arriving after midnight. Running in the opposite direction, The Vietage by Anantara’s additional carriage departs from Da Nang every morning, arriving at Dieu Tri station in Quy Nhon in the early afternoon and then onto Nha Trang for a mid-evening arrival.

The Vietage by Anantara contributes to the ‘Dollars for Deeds’ programme, in which US$ 1 per ticket is donated by us and guests are at liberty to make their own contribution. Donations are given to The Kianh Foundation, a not-for-profit charity providing a full-time, customised, special needs curriculum for children with disabilities in the Quang Nam Province of Central Vietnam.

For further information, please contact The Vietage by Anantara team on +84 256 368 6168, or at [email protected] .

Editor’s Notes:

The Vietage by Anantara operates two 12-seat reservation-only carriages on daily return railway routes between Da Nang and Quy Nhon and Nha Trang and Quy Nhon in South Central Vietnam, offering luxury slow train travel experiences for guests exploring Vietnam.

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From cosmopolitan cities to desert sands to lush islands, Anantara connects travellers to the indigenous, grounds them in authentic luxury, and hosts them with passionate expertise. The portfolio currently boasts over 50 stunning hotels and resorts located in Thailand, Maldives, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Seychelles, Mozambique, Zambia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Tunisia, Portugal, Spain, Hungary, Italy, The Netherlands, France, Ireland and Austria, with a pipeline of future properties across Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe and South America.

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Spirit House

Spirit house september 4, 2024 – january 26, 2025, the largest of three aaai exhibitions in 2024, this major survey showcases an intergenerational range of contemporary artists—from emerging to established—to foster a transhistorical and transnational dialogue between a diverse group of makers of asian descent.

The Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University is pleased to present  Spirit House , a major group exhibition foregrounding how contemporary artists of the Asian diaspora challenge the boundary between life and death through art. On view from September 4 , 2024 – January 26 , 2025 , the exhibition comprises nearly 50 works of art by 33 artists, including large-scale paintings, digital media, ceramic sculpture, photography, and significant new acquisitions within the museum’s permanent collection. Spirit House is the largest of three major exhibitions in 2024 of the Asian American Art Initiative (AAAI)—a cross-disciplinary, institutional commitment at Stanford University dedicated to the study of artists and makers of Asian descent—curated by AAAI co-founder, Associate Curator Aleesa Pitchamarn Alexander , and will be accompanied by the AAAI’s first publication, an extensive exhibition catalog. Featured artists include: Kelly Akashi , Korakrit Arunanondchai , James Clar , Binh Danh , Dominique Fung , Pao Houa Her , Greg Ito , Tommy Kha , Heesoo Kwon , Timothy Lai , An-My Lê , Dinh Q. Lê , Kang Seung Lee , Tidawhitney Lek , Jarod Lew , Reagan Louie , Cathy Lu , Nina Molloy , Tammy Nguyen , Tuan Andrew Nguyen , Catalina Ouyang , Maia Cruz Palileo , Namita Paul , Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya , Kour Pour , Jiab Prachakul , Stephanie H. Shih , Do Ho Suh , Masami Teraoka , Salman Toor , Lien Truong , Apichatpong Weerasethakul , and Wanxin Zhang . “The AAAI has been instrumental not only in transforming the Cantor’s collection of Asian American and diasporic art, but in revolutionizing the way an institution can cultivate solidarity and mutual support amongst an arts community both here in the Bay area and beyond. Spirit House is evidence of this invaluable work that Aleesa Pitchamarn Alexander has been undertaking for over five years,” says Veronica Roberts , John and Jill Freidenrich Director at the Cantor , “as it champions contemporary artists, emerging and established alike; provides tangible support to artists during their lifetimes; and creates a sense of belonging for audiences who may have been unaccustomed to seeing art that reflects their own lived experiences in an institutional setting. I could not be more proud of this incredible milestone in the AAAI’s development and am confident that Spirit House and its accompanying exhibition catalog will help redraw the lines of art history for years to come.” Aleesa Pitchamarn Alexander , AAAI co-director and Robert M. and Ruth L. Halperin Associate Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art , comments :  “This exhibition comes from an observation gleaned over the last few years: many contemporary artists are choosing to confront some of our most challenging existential questions through art—doing so with compassion, curiosity, and criticality. They deftly interweave family narratives within larger global contexts to show that the stakes of our diasporic lives are cosmic. Motivated by their vulnerability, I framed the project through Thai spirit houses, an omnipresent force during my childhood in Bangkok. I aim to capture and say something about our present moment, and how we might think about art and death to lead a more meaningful life.”  Spirit House asks the question, what does it mean to speak to ghosts, inhabit haunted spaces, be reincarnated, or enter different dimensions? Inspired by spirit houses, small devotional structures found throughout Thailand that provide shelter for the supernatural, this exhibition considers how art can collapse the distance between the past and present, as well as this world and the next. Here, contemporary artists reckon with the spiritual and spectral in our visual culture and question the many forms that ghosts can take. In foregrounding intuitive and inherited forms of knowledge, these artists challenge the primacy of data-driven, scientific methods of understanding the world around us. The exhibition is organized in five thematic sections—“Spirit Houses,” “Ghosts,” “Hauntings,” “Shrines,” and “Dimensions”—that survey how the featured artists are exploring modes of making that exceed rational understanding. Taken together, the works in Spirit House demonstrate how artists have the capacity to act like spirit mediums, materializing prayers and invocations, exorcizing and producing ghosts, and surpassing the limits of linear time through the creative process. These artists bring together family narratives severed by war, migration, and generational trauma, creating new realms and realities. In doing so, they confront the essentially inescapable: life, death, and all that lies in between and beyond.

Spirit Houses “Spirit Houses” explores how architecture and its constituent components have the capacity to hold affect and memory. This section argues for the power of supposedly inanimate spatial forces by emphasizing the primacy of built environments, as exemplified by the work of artists Korakrit Arunanondchai , James Clar , Greg Ito , Maia Cruz Palileo , Namita Paul , Kour Pour , and Do Ho Suh . As the only work of art in the exhibition that directly references (and also transforms) the arrangement of the traditional Thai spirit house, Arunanondchai ’s Shore of Security (2022) is especially significant. Working with the charred pieces of a structure originally created by the artist’s mother, Arunanondchai, like several artists in the exhibition, adopts a collaborative creative process—one that engages directly with a family member—to expand upon childhood memory, rendering an object once deeply familiar to the artist unfamiliar. This work consequently exemplifies the fundamental connection that exists between spirit houses and artworks: both are objects that have the capacity to transcend the limitations of human existence and serve as bridges between realms, as well as mediators of family memory. Ghosts “Ghosts” examines the literal, metaphorical, personal, and collective ghosts that haunt us across time and space. Works in this section chase ghosts—the ancestral lacunae of diasporic life—from the past, present, and future, offering spaces in visual form for intergenerational negotiation and otherwise impossible reunions. Kelly Akashi , Tommy Kha , Timothy Lai , Jarod Lew , Maia Cruz Palileo , Jiab Prachakul , Lien Truong , and Apichatpong Weerasethakul explore the diverse representational and psychological possibilities of incorporating ghosts as narrative devices in their respective practices. For example, throughout her childhood, Truong recalls the haunting presence of the only surviving photograph of her paternal grandmother on her family’s ancestral altar, and reckons with this image and her family’s loss in the painting The Crone (2022), wherein her grandmother’s youthful visage foretells a life cut short during the French occupation of present-day Vietnam.  Hauntings “Hauntings” investigates how historical specters have the capacity to haunt the present and how artists can offer reparative challenges by addressing these conditions. For the artists represented in Spirit House , the historical forces that haunt their works are often directly connected to life circumstances experienced in their ancestral countries of origin, which have contributed to their families’ relocation to the United States. Artists like Binh Danh , Pao Houa Her , An-My Lê , Tidawhitney Lek , and Tuan Andrew Nguyen assert themselves in the wake of the traumatic events that led to their dislocation and transform their inherited histories through reinterpretation and re-presentation. Born in Long Beach, Lek , for example, did not directly experience life under the Khmer Rouge like her family. However, the regime haunts her and manifests in her painting, Refuge (2023) by referencing an autobiography written by the her father about surviving this period—suggesting the continued presence of war within the intimacy of a family’s space, rather than as a discrete event contained with a specific location and chronology.          Other artists in this section include Korakrit Arunanondchai , Dinh Q. Lê , Catalina Ouyang , Masami Teraoka , Salman Toor , and Wanxin Zhang . Shrines The section, “Shrines,” features artists reimagining the iconography of Asian/Asian diasporic shrines to speak to the complexity of family relationships and diasporic culture. Dominique Fung , Reagan Louie , Cathy Lu , Nina Molloy , and Stephanie H. Shih incorporate food items associated with altar offerings in their work to signal that viewers are entering a ritual space, passage, or portal. These works of art summon ancestors, implore the viewer to think past quotidian concerns, and collapse the psychic distance between worlds. In Molloy ’s Shrine (2021–22), for example, oranges appear in front of a portrait of the artist’s great-grandfather, next to a glass of water, and behind a vessel punctuated by incense. The combination of these elements alludes to the holistic nature of ritual offerings: incense stimulates the olfactory sense and summons the deceased, food and drink contributions are gestures of nourishment for the afterlife, and portraits conjure those who have since passed on. In contrast, artists like Shih and Lu also address the social and political dimensions of food offerings, which tell stories about love and care, but also trauma and negotiation.  Dimensions Finally, “Dimensions” shows how human lives and historical events are not isolated but have incarnations in multiple timelines and forms. In this section, artists move within archives and sources to collapse strict chronologies and embody other beings, challenging “the quagmire of the present,” to paraphrase theorist José Esteban Muñoz. Heesoo Kwon , Pao Houa Her , Catalina Ouyang , Kang Seung Lee , Tammy Nguyen , and Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya confront the consequences of human activity in our current era and implore viewers to consider a non-Anthropocene recognition of the world. To do so, these artists contend with the loss of historical figures by considering the radical power of reincarnation. For example, Ouyang ’s love letter to artist and writer Theresa Hak Kyung Cha restages Cha’s iconic 1979 self-portrait to imagine an alternative timeline in which she survives beyond her thirty-one years on earth. Cha was brutally murdered by a security guard at the Puck Building in New York City in 1982, the same year her transformational book Dictee was published. More than four decades later, Ouyang commissioned Larese King, a freelance photographer and security officer at the Puck Building, to take their photograph as a surrogate version of Cha. The resulting picture, presented alongside the artist’s invoice to King, can be read as an honorific gesture from one Asian American artist to another through a suggested rewriting of a historical inevitability.

ABOUT THE ASIAN AMERICAN ART INITIATIVE Based at the Cantor Arts Center, the Asian American Art Initiative (AAAI) is dedicated to the study of artists and makers of Asian descent. Founded by Aleesa Pitchamarn Alexander, Robert M. and Ruth L. Halperin Associate Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art, and Marci Kwon, Assistant Professor of Art History at Stanford, and announced in January 2021, the AAAI encompasses a range of activities, including: collecting and exhibiting works of Asian American and Asian diaspora artists; preserving archival materials; fostering undergraduate and graduate education; and cultivating community collaboration and dialogue through public programming.

The AAAI aims to establish Stanford as a leading academic and curatorial center for the study of Asian American and Asian diaspora artists. Rather than a discrete identity category, the AAAI approaches the term “Asian American” as a diverse and relational term that signifies the interplay of social inclusion, exclusion, and racialization, as well as connections among East, Southeast, and South Asia; the Pacific Islands; and the Americas. The AAAI strives to foster innovative, interdisciplinary research into the work by Asian American and Asian diaspora makers. ABOUT THE CANTOR ARTS CENTER Serving the Stanford campus, the Bay Area community, and visitors from around the world, the Cantor Arts Center provides an outstanding cultural experience for visitors of all ages. Founded when the university opened in 1891, the historic museum was expanded and renamed in 1999 for lead donors Iris and B. Gerald Cantor. The Cantor’s collection spans 5,000 years and includes more than 41,000 works of art from around the globe. The Cantor is an established resource for teaching and research on campus. Free admission, tours, lectures, and family activities make the Cantor one of the most visited university art museums in the country. IMAGES   Image 1: Korakrit Arunanondchai (b. 1986, Bangkok, Thailand; lives and works in Bangkok and Brooklyn, NY), Shore of Security , 2022. Repurposed wooden doll house made by the artist’s mother, wood, house paint, polyurethane, fabric sculpture, ceramics, snake skeleton, LED lights. Courtesy of the artist and C L E A R I N G, New York / Brussels / Los Angeles. Photo: JSP Art Photography. Image 2: Stephanie H. Shih, Offering (Ash Tower) , 2023. Ceramic and steel. Collection of Kohler Co. Photo: Kohler Co. courtesy of the John Michael Kohler Arts Center. Image 3: Nina Molloy (b. 1999, Bangkok, Thailand; lives and works in New York, NY), Shrine , 2021–2022. Oil on canvas. Cantor Arts Center, Stanford University. Aey Phanachet and Roger Evans Fund for Contemporary Southeast Asian Art, 2023.69. Image courtesy of the artist and Micki Meng.  EXHIBITION CREDITS This exhibition is curated by AAAI Co-Director, Aleesa Pitchamarn Alexander, with Kathryn Cua, curatorial assistant for the AAAI. Spirit House will be the first AAAI exhibition accompanied by a substantial publication.  Lead support for Spirit House provided by Pamela and David Hornik, and Aey Phanachet and Roger Evans. Generous support is provided by Tad Freese and Brook Hartzell, and Nelson Chu. Additional support is provided by Lisa Young and Steven Abraham.

VISIT THE MUSEUM Cantor Arts Center 328 Lomita Drive at Museum Way Stanford, CA T: 650-723-4177 https://museum.stanford.edu/ Wednesday – Sunday 11:00am – 5:00pm FREE ADMISSION PRESS CONTACTS Cultural Counsel Evan Lenox-Samour, Associate Director [email protected] Hannah Kay, Account Executive [email protected]

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