The Best of Southeast Asia 16 days
Overview
Immerse yourself in a journey that blends breathtaking natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture. Cruise through emerald waters adorned with limestone karsts, explore ancient heritage sites steeped in timeless stories and meander through charming towns filled with history and character. Delight in the region’s diverse culinary scene, from bustling street food markets to refined local flavours, and engage with the rhythms of everyday life. Along the way, visit serene temples, lively markets and modern cityscapes, each revealing a unique facet of Asia’s charm.
This itinerary features More Moments activities included with your package.
If your itinerary includes domestic and/or regional flight tickets, as well as entry tickets to landmarks that require passport details, you must call Air Canada Vacations immediately upon receiving your booking confirmation. Failure to provide Air Canada Vacations with your passport details may result in the unavailability of domestic and/or regional flight tickets, and entry passes for certain landmarks included in your tour package. It is mandatory to call Air Canada Vacations at the number provided in your electronic confirmation as soon as your booking is confirmed to submit your passport details.
Format
Trip Highlights
Destinations that include planned activities and/or overnight stays.
- Thailand
- Bangkok
- Vietnam
- Hanoi
- Hội An
- Hạ Long Bay, Vietnam
- Cambodia
- Siem Reap
- Laos
- Luang Prabang
Inclusions
- Round-trip flight to Bangkok (if the Flight & Hotel option is chosen)
- One-way economy class airfare from Bangkok to Luang Prabang, from Luang Prabang to
- Hanoi, from Hanoi to Da Nang, from Da Nang to Siem Reap and from Siem Reap to Bangkok
- Private transfers to and from airports, and for all excursions and sightseeing tours as per the itinerary, unless noted otherwise
- 13 nights’ accommodation (3 nights in Luang Prabang, 2 nights in Hanoi, 1 night in Hạ Long Bay Cruise, 3 nights in Hội An, 3 nights in Siem Reap, and 1 night in Bangkok)
- Daily breakfast
- Lunch and dinner as per itinerary
- Entrance fee to landmarks and monuments as mentioned in the itinerary
- More moments inclusions:
- Luang Prabang full-day city tour
- Tak Bat - Traditional Buddhist ceremony
- Traditional cooking class
- Architectural walking tour
- Half-day Hanoi landmarks tour
- Vibrant street food tour
- Hạ Long Bay cruise
- Half-day cooking class in Hội An
- Half-day timeless charm walking city tour
- Half-day cycling adventure
- Evening walking food tour in Hội An
- Siem Reap iconic landmarks tour
- Angkor Wat visit
- Kompong Khleang visit
- Hotel taxes, fees and service charges
- Government tax and service charges
- Service of English-speaking local guide as per program.
- Bottle of water on transfers and sightseeing tours
Itinerary
Days 1 & 2
Depart Canada
Depart from Canada bound for Bangkok’s International Airport.
Day 3
Welcome to Luang Prabang
Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, you might be required to clear customs and immigration in Thailand. Once cleared, you’ll proceed to the luggage collection area, collect your belongings and check in for your connection flight to Luang Prabang, “The City of the Golden Temples.”
Upon arrival, you’ll proceed through customs and immigration. After clearing, you’ll head to the exit where a local representative will greet you with a sign bearing your name. They will escort you to your transfer, which will take you to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Day 4
Luang Prabang
After breakfast, you’ll meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby and set off on an exciting full-day city tour. Explore the timeless treasures of the old city, now proudly recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the evening is at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Full-day city tour
You’ll begin with a visit to a sacred Buddhist temple and take part in a traditional Monk Blessing Ceremony. Continue to Luang Prabang’s National Museum (former Royal Palace) and the renowned Wat Xieng Thong. Visit Wat Mano monk school to meet a young monk and learn about Buddhism and Laos, then stop at My Library, a community initiative supporting students from nearby rural areas. Travel onward to the sacred Pak Ou Buddha Caves, home to thousands of Buddha images. After lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll board a private Mekong Riverboat for a scenic cruise back to Luang Prabang, passing traditional riverside villages and stunning mountain landscapes. If time permits, visit the Lao village of Ban Thin Hong before continuing the cruise. Traditional Lao refreshments, canapés and soft drinks are served on board.
Meal(s): breakfast and lunch
Day 5
Luang Prabang
Start your day bright and early with one of Luang Prabang's most unforgettable experiences: the Tak Bat, a traditional Buddhist almsgiving ceremony. This serene ritual begins at 5:30 AM, offering a unique glimpse into the spiritual life of the city.
After the ceremony, you’ll take a stroll with your local guide through the colourful, open-air fresh early morning market. Taste a unique local authentic Lao Coffee at Pasaneyom Coffee Shop before heading back to your hotel for breakfast and freshening up to get ready for your next adventure.
After breakfast, you’ll embark on a delightful culinary journey with a traditional cooking class, followed by an engaging architectural walking tour that unveils the city's rich heritage.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Tak Bat - Traditional Buddhist ceremony
An unforgettable experience awaits at dawn as hundreds of saffron-robed monks move silently through the streets to collect alms—offerings of food. Your guide will share the rich history and significance of this sacred ritual, which remains an integral part of daily life in Laos. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a leisurely stroll with your local guide through the vibrant, open-air Morning Market, brimming with fresh produce and local delights. Complete the experience by savouring a cup of authentic Lao coffee at the charming Pasaneyom Coffee Shop before returning to your hotel.
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Traditional cooking class
Meet a local chef and visit the bustling food market, where your guide will highlight and explain the local produce and its culinary uses. Immerse yourself in the flavours of Laos as you cook authentic Lao dishes while learning about the traditions and customs at the heart of Lao cuisine. The cooking experience takes place in a welcoming local family setting. Afterward, savour a delicious three-course lunch that you’ve prepared, paired with traditional Lao drinks.
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Architectural walking tour
Discover the rich heritage and stunning blend of French and Laotian architecture on a cultural walking tour. Explore one of Asia’s most delightful and visually captivating towns as you venture off the beaten path. This walk takes you through lesser-known parts of Luang Prabang, including hidden, charming lanes that beautifully capture the town’s traditional atmosphere.
Meal(s): breakfast and lunch
Day 6
Luang Prabang - Hanoi
After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll take some time to continue exploring Luang Prabang at your own pace until it’s time to check out. Once you’ve checked out, you’ll meet your local representative in the hotel lobby for your transfer to Luang Prabang International Airport, where you’ll board your flight to Hanoi, known as “The City of Lakes.”
Upon arrival, you’ll proceed through customs and immigration. After clearing, head to the exit where a local representative will greet you with a sign bearing your name. They will escort you to your transfer, which will take you to your hotel for check-in.
Rest of the day is at your leisure.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 7
Hanoi
After an early breakfast, you’ll meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby for a half-day Hanoi landmarks tour, including a charming cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle taxi) ride. Afterwards, you’ll return to your hotel to freshen up and enjoy a leisurely early afternoon before diving into your next adventure, a vibrant street food tour.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the evening is at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day Hanoi landmarks tour
You’ll enjoy a brief orientation of Hanoi’s tree-lined streets and its French architecture, including the exquisite Opera House and the legendary Lake of the Restored Sword. You’ll continue to the Temple of Literature, known as the first national university in Vietnam and the symbol of Vietnamese architectural values. Then, you’ll head to the Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays) for an insight into the 54 ethnic groups of Vietnam. You’ll have the chance to explore the outdoor display area that exhibits a variety of ethnic homes as full-scale replicas. Cap off the trip with a cyclo ride through the labyrinthine alleyways of the Old Quarters. Stop at a roadside coffee shop, mingle with the locals and enjoy daily life passing by.
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Vibrant street food tour
Enjoy strolling through the winding streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter and indulge your taste buds along the way. Try the popular Nom Kho Bo, a salad made with green papaya and beef jerky. Next, follow the scent of fragrant food to a rustic venue where Banh Cuon, a steamed rice roll, is served. Then, visit a family-run eatery, Huong Lien, that serves Bun Cha, a one-dish meal of noodles with flame-grilled pork cooked over hot coals for extra flavour. After satisfying your appetite, it's time for dessert. Venture down a small alley in search of seasonal sweet treats. Please note that vegetarian/vegan options are not available.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 8
Hanoi - Hạ Long Bay (Overnight cruise)
After breakfast and check-out, you’ll meet your guide in the lobby of the hotel and embark on a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Tuan Chau Jetty, where an exciting overnight cruise on the famous Hạ Long Bay awaits!
Upon arrival at the pier, you’ll take a speedboat to your vessel and enjoy lunch while cruising through Hạ Long Bay’s iconic limestone islands. Depending on your itinerary, explore caves, grottos, pearl farms or island beaches, with some cruises offering kayaking. After sunset, you’ll enjoy a Vietnamese cooking demonstration followed by a delicious dinner. The day ends with the boat anchoring for the night among the karst formations.
Important note: Please note your vessel’s itinerary is subject to change at short notice and is dependent on weather and tidal conditions. If weather conditions are deemed unsafe, the harbour master may deny departure, and you will be re-accommodated with the best alternative ground services available.
More Moments Activities Included
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Hạ Long Bay cruise
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the mesmerizing landscape of Hạ Long Bay, a true gem amongst Vietnam's natural wonders. Join an exhilarating overnight cruise where you will glide through the pristine waters, offering unparalleled views of the majestic limestone islands that dot the horizon.
Marvel at the spectacle of over 3,000 towering karst formations, each adorned with lush greenery and hidden caves waiting to be explored. Our voyage will take us past secluded beaches, hidden grottoes and picturesque coves.
Along the way, soak in the tranquillity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the beauty of nature blends seamlessly with centuries of cultural heritage. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking scenery and rich history that surrounds you, offering a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and cultural immersion.
Meal(s): breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 9
Hạ Long Bay - Hội An
Start your morning by awakening your senses with a relaxing Tai Chi session on the sundeck or simply unwind on board while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the bay.
Afterwards, enjoy breakfast as the cruise makes its way back through the bay to the pier. Upon disembarkation, you’ll continue your journey to your next destination.
A local representative will be waiting to greet you with an Air Canada Vacations sign displaying your name. They will escort you to your transfer to Hanoi's international airport, Noi Bai International Airport, for your flight to Da Nang.
Upon arrival, you’ll proceed through the customs and immigration formalities and once cleared, you’ll collect your luggage and exit the baggage claim area. A local representative will be waiting with an Air Canada Vacations sign displaying your name.
They will escort you to your transfer to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 10
Hội An
After breakfast, you’ll meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby and embark on a delightful culinary adventure with a half-day cooking class in the charming TraQue Herbal Village, followed by a half-day timeless charm walking tour of Hội An.
Afterwards, your tour guide will take you back to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day cooking class
Enjoy a memorable culinary and cultural experience set among tranquil surroundings. Learn the secrets of the Vietnamese kitchen at a restaurant with impressive architecture.
First, you’ll drive to a riverside café shop to enjoy Café Sữa Đá, a traditional Vietnamese drink. Next, you’ll visit the bustling local market, gaining insight into the scents and flavours of the country’s culinary culture while collecting ingredients for your dishes. Afterward, you’ll head to the wharf and board a boat for a short trip to the location where the cooking class is held. During the journey, you’ll learn to prepare special dishes and then sit down with friends to enjoy a delightful meal that you’ve prepared.
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Half-day timeless charm walking city tour
Explore the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town of Hội An on foot, where centuries of history come to life through beautifully preserved merchant houses, atmospheric temples and vibrant local markets. Wander through the charming back streets of this ancient trading port and discover its unique blend of cultural influences. Visit the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge and stroll along the lively waterfront, where colourful fishing boats drift along the Thu Bồn River. Take time to browse the many boutiques and art galleries lining the narrow streets, with opportunities to shop for local treasures. Complete your walking tour with a visit to Hội An Market, where you can sample traditional local treats such as Bánh Ít Lá Gai (little pyramid-shaped cake).
Meal(s): breakfast and lunch
Day 11
Hội An
After an early breakfast, meet your guide in the hotel lobby for an exciting half-day cycling adventure through the scenic landscapes of Hội An.
Return to your hotel for some free time before your afternoon culinary experience, an evening walking food tour.
After this flavourful experience, you'll be transferred back to your hotel, with the rest of the evening at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day cycling adventure
Embrace slow travel by exploring Hội An during an 8km cycling ride. The scenery around the ancient town is simply breathtaking. Narrow canals, peaceful paths and rural roads lead past lush rice paddy fields and overgrown channels to small settlements that have not changed for centuries. The destination for today’s excursion is Cam Thanh, a traditional fishing village surrounded by tranquil coconut-palm-flanked waterways. Enjoy cycling through the village, shaded from the sun by a canopy of bamboo thickets, and learn about the daily life of the fishermen and the local community. Depending on the time of day and the season, there may also be an opportunity to see the local farming community at work.
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Evening walking food tour
Wander through the hidden alleyways and learn about the daily lifestyle of the local people through its cuisine. This evening’s culinary tour begins with a drink and a small selection of street food, sampling famous dishes like White Rose (translucent white dough filled with spicy minced shrimp or pork) and special crispy wontons. Next on the agenda is a Vietnamese-style hotpot in a lively local restaurant before moving on to the last venue on the itinerary. Sample succulent BBQ specialties at Bale accompanied by a cold beer and a delicious dessert of Flan cake, a light version of crème caramel inherited from the French. Then, you’ll have a chance to sit on an authentic boat on the river in the evening and release flower garlands like a local, listen to interesting daily stories from boatmen before returning to the hotel. Please note that vegetarian/vegan options are not available.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 12
Hội An - Siem Reap
After breakfast and check-out, you’ll meet your driver in the lobby of your hotel, who will take you to Da Nang International Airport to catch your flight to “the gateway to Angkor,” Siem Reap.
Upon arrival, you’ll clear customs and immigration. Afterward, you’ll proceed to collect your luggage. Once you have your luggage, you’ll head to the exit where a local representative will be waiting for you, holding a sign with your name. They will escort you to your transfer, which will take you to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 13
Siem Reap
After breakfast, you’ll meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby and set off on an exciting day of cultural exploration, visiting the most iconic landmarks of this ancient city.
More Moments Activities Included
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Iconic landmarks tour
Depart by Remork (motorcycle) to the ancient city of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire. Enter through the South Gate, adorned with carved elephants and giant faces, with rows of gods and demons holding the sacred Naga snake. Next, you’ll visit the Bayon Temple, known for its 54 towers with enigmatic faces representing the Khmer Empire's provinces. Explore the Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King, famous for their detailed bas-reliefs. Afterward, you’ll return to your hotel for lunch (at your own expense). In the afternoon, you’ll visit Ta Prohm Temple, left largely overgrown by jungle, making it one of the most scenic Angkor temples. You’ll end the day at Preah Khan, a 12th-century temple with impressive halls, pavilions and bas-reliefs of apsaras in the Hall of Dancers.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 14
Siem Reap
After breakfast, you’ll meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby, ready to embark on an unforgettable journey! Your first stop is the magnificent Angkor Wat, the largest temple in the world and a true wonder of ancient architecture.
After exploring this iconic site, you’ll take a break to savour a delicious lunch at a local restaurant (at your own expense).
In the afternoon, continue your adventure with a short drive to visit the captivating floating village of Kompong Khleang, where you'll experience the unique charm of life on the water.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Angkor Wat visit
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the world’s largest religious monument and a must-see when visiting Cambodia. As you wander through its sprawling galleries, marvel at intricate carvings that tell ancient tales and gaze up at its iconic spires reaching for the sky. Built in the 12th century, it offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Khmer civilization.
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Kompong Khleang visit
Explore this captivating floating village on the shores of Tonlé Sap Lake. Here, life flows with the rhythm of the water, offering a glimpse into a unique way of living. Cruise past stilted homes that tower above the floodplain in the dry season or appear to float during the wet season, creating a picturesque and ever-changing landscape. Meet the friendly locals, see traditional fishing techniques in action and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this serene community. A visit to Kompong Khleang is not just a journey to a village; it’s a step into a world unlike any other.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 15
Siem Reap – Bangkok
After a leisurely breakfast, your local representative will take you to Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport for your flight to Bangkok.
Upon arrival, proceed through customs and immigration. After these formalities are completed, collect your luggage and proceed directly to the Airport Hotel Counter, located next to Gate 4 in the Arrivals Hall (2nd Floor), to arrange your complimentary airport-hotel shuttle transfer service.
If you are unable to locate the hotel counter, please proceed to the International Arrivals Hall, Exit B (near Exit Door No. 6), where a Destination Asia Airport Representative will be available to assist you.
The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Meal(s): breakfast
Day 16
Bangkok – Canada
After breakfast, please arrange your hotel-to-airport shuttle transfer with the front desk of your hotel. The shuttle will take you to Bangkok’s international airport, Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), for your flight back to Canada.
Meal(s): breakfast
Accommodations
Where you'll stay
Location
Hotel
Room details
Unless otherwise indicated, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Type of bed(s): 1 double bed or 2 twin beds
Room occupancy: Maximum adults: 2
Accommodation important notes:
The accommodation in Hạ Long Bay (Cruise) is not star-rated due to its unique nature. Instead, this exceptional experience provides guests with an unforgettable journey, blending comfort, adventure and cultural immersion in a truly one-of-a-kind setting.
Ideal for
Guided tours
Let us show you around. Tour packages include (varies by tour):
- Round-trip flight with Air Canada
- Private airport transfers
- Hotel accommodation
- Daily breakfast
- Train transportation
- Motorcoach transportation
- Hotel-to-hotel luggage service
- Experienced guide throughout
- Aeroplan® points
Earn more with Aeroplan
In addition to accumulating points on the flight portion of your trip, you’ll earn up to 4,000 extra Aeroplan points on select tour packages.
- Members ages 2 to 12 will receive extra points equivalent to 50% of the points granted to members ages 13 and up.
- Travel completion by December 31, 2026.
Important Information
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Daily from January 1, 2027 – December 31, 2027
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Tours Exclusions
- Gratuities of any kind
- Visa expenses (where applicable)
- Expenses of personal nature, including travel insurance
- Festive dinner/meal and festive surcharge at each hotel
- Airport taxes (where applicable)
- Meals outside of the ones mentioned within the itinerary above.
- Drinks
- Transfers for any optional activities, and any other transfer services required outside of the itinerary above.
- Excess baggage fees
- Entrance to other landmarks not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Additional activities and excursions
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The More Moments activities/excursions mentioned in the itinerary are all included in the package but may be rescheduled to take place on an earlier or later day, depending on availability and operational day, or cancelled due to weather-related conditions.
Optional ($)
- Phare, the Cambodian Circus
- Siem Reap after dark by Vespa
- Dinner with Apsara Performance at Angkor Village Theater
The optional activities listed above must be reserved and paid for directly through your local representative.
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- Car: For all airport-hotel-airport, inter-city and sightseeing transfer services
- Airport shuttle: Bangkok Airport – Hotel – Bangkok International Airport transfer service.
- Plane: From Bangkok to Luang Prabang, from Luang Prabang to Hanoi, from Hanoi to Da
- Nang, from Da Nang to Siem Reap and from Siem Reap to Bangkok
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- The itinerary above is subject to change without prior notice. The order in which destinations are visited, or day excursions occur, may change due to operational restrictions, such as accommodation availability, weather, national events, strikes, etc.
- Please note that local street food venues may offer basic facilities. Depending on availability, your tour guide may suggest alternative options on site.
- Driving times indicated in your itinerary are approximate and may vary due to traffic and road conditions.
- Passport information required for domestic train/air tickets (Name, Date of Birth, Nationality, Passport # and expiry date)
- All tours are operated in English only.
- Domestic flights weight restriction for checked bags is 20KG, 1 bag per person
- Visits to sacred temples:
Visitors must wear discreet and respectful clothing, like blouses or shirts that cover their arms and shoulders. During the visit to the Bakan tower of Angkor Wat temple, visitors are required to wear proper attire, covering shoulders and knees, as this temple is still considered a sacred site (no shorts, miniskirts or short trousers). Children under twelve years old are not allowed to climb up this tower. It will be closed on the Buddhist Sabbath Days, the Buddhist religious days, four days a month in accordance with the Lunar Calendar.