Vietnam Brochure 2016

Page 52

LAOS

COUNTRY EXPERIENCES Laos

Discover Luang Prabang Luang Prabang is a wonderful small town nestled in a valley beside the Mekong River and is a World Heritage site. The town is dotted with Buddhist temples, monks in saffron robes wander the streets, historical monuments and faded colonial French architecture combine with Chinese shophouses. After a day of visiting the temples, enjoy some time leisurely strolling around and shopping for those special gifts for back home. Day 1 LUANG PRABANG

Arrive Luang Prabang International Airport meet and greet transfer to your hotel. Visit the former Palace which displays a collection of personal artefacts of the Royal family. Then we cross the street and climb the steps of Mount Phousi for an impressive view of the entire town and its surrounds. A visit to Xieng Thong temple, the most beautiful temple in Luang Prabang and sunset at Wat Phabat Tai, a monastery complex built in the 17th century ends the day. Day 2 LUANG PRABANG (B, L)

Today a boat trip on the Mekong River to Pak Ou Cave, en route visit a rice wine distillation village. The caves are impressive with thousands of Buddha images within the cave. In the afternoon continue to Kwang Si Waterfall for an optional short trek around the falls. Return to overnight in Luang Prabang. This evening receive a free traditional Lao massage Day 3 LUANG PRABANG (B)

In the morning partake in the early morning Alms offering to the local Buddhist Monks. Then a visit to the fresh food market before a transfer to the airport for your departure flight. From $564pp

Discover Vientiane

Highlights of Laos

Vientiane is the sleepy capital of Laos situated on the banks of the Mekong River. The city although quite spread out is quiet and the dusty streets easy to explore. Enjoy the restaurants or simply a cold drink as the sun sets over the Mekong River.

This package offers a contrasting view of Lao’s two major cities, Luang Prabang and Vientiane. Luang Prabang offers a rare glimpse into past royal traditions and ancient temples. While Vientiane is one of the quietest capital cities you can find.

Day 1 VIENTIANE

DAY 1 LUANG PRABANG

Arrive Vientiane Airport, meet and greet and transfer to hotel. An afternoon sightseeing tour includes That Luang Stupa, Pratuxai – the iconic victory monument, and Phon Thong Savang – a local fresh food market. End the day with a visit to Ban Nong Bouathong weaving village.

Arrive Luang Prabang. Meet and greet and transfer to your hotel before exploring the former Royal Palace and Mount Phousi with panoramic views over the city. Finish the day exploring the Xieng Thong temple, the most beautiful in Luang Prabang and at sunset the Wat Phabat Tai monastery.

Day 2 VIENTIANE (B, L, D)

DAY 2 LUANG PRABANG (B, L)

After breakfast this morning visit Buddha Park where 200 Buddhist and religious images dating back over 500 year are displayed. Then head to the Nam Ngum River where you will enjoy a private lunch cruise. On the way back to Vientiane, make a short stop at Dong Mak Khai market where locals trade vegetables, wild animals, handicrafts and poultry. A traditional Lao Dinner & Show is included this evening.

Take a boat trip to the Pak Ou caves. Thousands of Buddha statues are crammed into the caves carved out of the towering limestone cliff. Visit a riverside village which produces rice wine enroute. In the afternoon visit Kwang Si Waterfall for a short trek around the falls or a swim.

Day 3 VIENTIANE (B)

Transfer to Vientiane International Airport or the Friendship Bridge (Thailand Border) for your departure. From $549pp

DAY 3 LUANG PRABANG (B, D)

Today is at leisure. This evening embark on the Nava Mekong River cruise. Moor near a traditional village where dancers perform ageold sets. Enjoy the history and unique theatrical dining experience on board with a variety of Lao cuisines on offer. DAY 4 VIENTIANE (B)

Optional Alms offering in the morning to the Buddhist Monks before the flight to Vientiane. Todays sightseeing includes Luang Stupa, Pratuxai and Thong Kan Kham market. Then visit the COPE visitor center and UXO where you will learn how the Laos people have suffered from unexploded ordnance bombs which is an everyday reality in this region. DAY 5 VIENTIANE (B)

Transfer to Vientiane International Airport for your departure. From $1061pp

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