Description

JEWELS OF INDOCHINA DIRECTOR'S PROGRAM
Cultural, historical, natural UNESCO World Heritage sites represent the most important and magnificent attractions in a country. Deemed so important to the legacy of humanity that they must be protected, these sights are a celebration of the diversity of our world.

We invite you to join us on a journey through the UNESCO sites of Indochina. From the turquoise waters of Ha Long Bay to the stone fortresses of Angkor Wat, discover the wealth of cultural and natural treasures of Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos.

Throughout the journey you will travel in style with luxury accommodations in each destination. Beyond visiting the UNESCO sights, you will venture into the region's best markets, savor each country's unique blend of flavors, and make time for plenty of relaxing massages and fruit shakes along the way.

Temples and Floating Villages
The first stop on your tour of Indochina's treasures is Phnom Penh, the political and cultural center of Cambodia. Explore the remnants of the country's turbulent past with a trip to the S-21 Genocide Museum and the infamous Killing Fields, and then take in the Silver Pagoda and the Emerald Buddha. This interactive morning will introduce you to the country's complex history and give you a solid cultural and historical base for the rest of your time in Cambodia. From Phnom Penh you will travel north through the country's heartland to the river-port town of Battambang. Here you will board a boat and motor up the Tonle Sap waterway, Cambodia's main artery. As you sail past remote floating villages, you will catch a glimpse of what life is like for many people in modern-day Cambodia. The boat will dock in Siem Reap, home to some of the world's most breathtaking temples. Witness a stunning sunrise at Angkor Wat, the mother of all temples, and then check out some of the smaller stone fortresses that dot the countryside.

Hanoi and Ha Long
From Siem Reap you will fly into Hanoi, the cultural heart of Vietnam. Here you will lose yourself in the frenetic energy and labyrinthine alleyways of the city's famed Old Quarter. After checking out some of the city's other sights, you will head out of town for the transcendent beauty of Ha Long Bay. One of Vietnam's most renowned sites, Ha Long is unforgettable. Climb aboard a teak boat and set sail out into the turquoise waters and emerald-green karsts of the bay. Go for a swim in the warm waters, take a kayak out for a spin, or just soak up the sun on deck. At night you will drop anchor right in the bay and let the lull of the waves rock you to sleep.

Lovely Luang Prabang
The final country in your tour of Indochina is Laos. Sleepier and more laid-back then Cambodia and Vietnam, Laos will charm you with its welcoming people and sabai-sabai way of life. The entire city of Luang Prabang has been declared a World Heritage site, and you will see why as soon as you arrive. Dotted with glittering temples, tucked into the mountains, and surrounded by Hill Tribe villages, the city is simply magical. After seeing the sights in town, you will head out into the hills to soak up the magnificence of the surrounding countryside. Cool off with a swim in a blue lagoon and a seven-tiered waterfall, venture into a cave that holds hundreds of ancient Buddha relics, and get off the beaten track in small villages where you can learn about the country's many minority groups.

Highlights

EXPLORE four of the most inspiring city's of Indochina and study the rich history which has deemed them UNESCO World Heritage sites.

RISE with the sun as it climbs its way over the sacred towers of Angkor Wat and explore the ancient ruins of this once powerful empire.

SAIL the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay past vibrant islands that tower out of the sea. Sleep overnight in private staterooms and get up early for some morning kayaking to seaside caves.

UNWIND your mind as you chill-out in Luang Prabang, voted #1 destination to visit in the world for the 5th time! This small mountain town is so amazing you will not want to leave, its unlike any place you've visited before.

Travel Types

• Overland Tours
• Student Tours
• Tours

Type of Programs

• Adventure Travel
• Student Tours

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

4,995 USD + 1,120 USD Internal Airfare + International air

Program Fees Include:

The above cost includes all ground transportation in-country, 3 meals a day, housing, staff through the duration of the program, and all excursions on the program itinerary not listed as optional.

This Program is open to

American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants.

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

1-2 business days

Rustic Pathways's Mission Statement

Rustic Pathways is a pioneer in providing superior quality travel and service programs for students and families in some of the world's most welcoming countries. Rustic Pathways demands professionalism and integrity across all of its operations, insists on quality in all aspects of its programs, and places the safety of its students above all other considerations. We enrich the lives of our students and our staff, benefit the parts of the world we serve, and build cultural bridges that lead to greater global understanding and cooperation.

Year Founded

1983