Authentic Vietnam & Thailand: Homestays, Workshops & Local Experiences - 21 Days

Highlights

• Experience the highlights of modern cities like Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City
• See traditional river communities in the Mekong Delta and Hoi An's waterfront
• Hike the terraced rice fields of Sapa and overnight at local hill tribe villages
• Visit temples, villages, and elephant sanctuaries around Chiang Mai 
• Laze on the white-sand beaches of Phuket and go island hopping

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), Half-Day City Tour

Xin chao! Welcome to Vietnam! Each region of this small Southeast Asian country features its own culture, cuisine, and history. Case in point: southern Vietnam. Distinct from the mountainous north, this area is famous for its massive cities, wartime landmarks, and the fabled Mekong Delta—a locale unlike any other. You'll arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, which is not only the largest metropolis in the south but in all of Vietnam. Upon arrival, a driver will pick you up for the ride to your hotel.

After settling in, meet a guide for a half-day tour of Ho Chi Minh City's highlights. First on the list is the never-dull Ben Thanh Market. This century-old market is a hub of activity, with hundreds of vendors peddling fresh produce, meats, seafood, and street eats. Browse the stalls as your guide teaches you the art of haggling. Afterward, proceed to the War Remnants Museum for a vivid look at the American War (as the Vietnam War is known locally). Highlight exhibits include military weaponry, historical photographs, prison-cell recreations, and even the infamous tiger cages.

Next, travel to 19th-century landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. You'll also visit the Reunification Palace (also known as Independence Palace), which was the headquarters of the Saigon government during the war. Cap the excursion with a stroll along the upscale shopping drag of Dong Khoi Street. One of the busiest roads in the city, Dong Khoi stretches about a half-mile and is lined with beautiful French colonial buildings and other historic landmarks. 

Day 2: Transfer to the Mekong Delta & Can Tho

You're in for a treat, as this morning, you'll leave on a full-day tour of the famed Mekong Delta, which begins with a transfer south of Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho. This river city is located in Tien Giang province at the doorstep of the Mekong. During a scenic boat ride, you'll pass tranquil islands as you sip fresh coconut juice (the Mekong is famous for its coconut groves). The boat tour ends with a visit to one of the area's massive floating markets, where hundreds of boats ply the waters selling fresh produce.

At the end of the tour, you'll visit Thoi Son Island. Stretch your legs on a stroll down the backroads as you pass orchards, sample tropical fruits, and listen to traditional music coming from the village homes. You'll also see a shrine dedicated to the Coconut Monk, a local religious cult leader who, back in the day, preached adherence to peace, harmony, and coconuts. Next, stop at Vinh Trang Pagoda, the largest Buddhist temple in the province. Afterward, continue another 2.5 hours to the river city of Can Tho, where you'll overnight.

Day 3: Floating Market Tour, Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City, Fly to Hoi An

Rise early for a boat trip to Cai Rang Floating Market, one of the liveliest in the region. Your guide will lead you through the throng of tiny wooden boats piled high with flowers, coconuts, and fresh produce. Learn how to barter with traders as you mingle with locals amid the infectious energy of market life.

Afterward, you'll transfer to a nearby orchard that supplies the markets of the delta region with fresh fruit. Take a walk around the groves and then visit a noodle workshop in the area where you'll learn to make traditional rice noodles.

Later, transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City and the airport, where you'll catch a flight north to Da Nang, on Vietnam's central coast. Then, it's another hour ride south by private car to Hoi An. This historic city on the Thu Bon River was a major trading port with the West from the 15th through the 19th centuries, and many well-preserved buildings remain in its riverside Ancient Town. Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel and have the evening free.

Day 4: Ancient Town Tour & Lantern-Making Workshop

This morning, you'll discover Hoi An's myriad treasures on a guided walking tour of its Ancient Town. Highlights you'll see while walking on and around the waterfront include Hoi An Market, the Japanese Covered Bridge, and the historic Chinese meeting hall Phuc Kien, which dates to the 17th century. With its elaborate wood carvings, paintings, and sculptures, a visit to the hall leaves an indelible impression.

Later, you'll participate in a private workshop to discover the ancient art of lantern-making. Japanese settlers brought the first lanterns to this region in the 16th century, and they've been a cultural icon ever since. At the home of a local artisan, you'll learn all about this rich history and then make your very own colorful paper lantern to take home.

Day 5: Country Bike Ride, Visit an Organic Farm, Cooking Class

Meet a guide this morning and hop on a bicycle for an experience in rural Vietnam you won't soon forget. Pedal about 2 miles (3 km) outside of town to Tra Que Vegetable Village, a model of sustainable farming. For centuries, farmers on this 98-acre (40 ha) plot of land have been growing the highest quality herbs and vegetables through totally organic methods and without electric machinery. Spend time here alongside the local farmers as you learn their time-tested secrets to planting and tilling the soil.

Afterward, you'll visit a local home and enjoy a welcome drink and a brief rest. Then, meet your chef/instructor, who will show you the tricks and techniques for preparing delicious regional dishes like banh xeo (savory rice pancakes shrimp). You'll prepare about seven dishes, and when the cooking is done, you'll sit down with your instructor and enjoy your creations for lunch.

After the meal, you'll return to Hoi An and have the rest of the day free. Stroll the cobbled streets of Ancient Town, visit the historic plazas and pavilions, and stop in at local art galleries. You can also browse the outdoor markets along the river and grab a seat at a waterfront café to do some people-watching while enjoying a refreshing milk coffee. 

Day 6: Fly to Hanoi, City & Street Food Tour

Transfer back to Da Nang in the morning and catch a 1.5-hour flight north to Hanoi. The nation's capital delivers the quintessential Vietnam experience. The wild streets abound with energy, the street food is second to none, and there's history, culture, and adventure around every corner. Upon arrival, your driver will pick you up for the hourlong ride into the city and your hotel.

After checking in, meet a local guide for a half-day tour of Hanoi's cultural highlights. It starts in the historic Old Quarter and the 11th-century Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university. Finish at the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where Vietnam's revered revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, lies embalmed in a mausoleum. Amble through the peaceful grounds to see the humble wooden stilt house where he once lived and the ornate One Pillar Pagoda, which sits in the middle of a lake and resembles Vietnam's national flower, the lotus. 

Later in the afternoon, you'll embark on a culinary adventure to sample Hanoi's fabled street food delights. Follow your expert guide around the streets of the Old Quarter, sampling typical dishes such as cha ca (grilled fish with turmeric), pho bo (beef noodle soup), and bun cha (grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles). If you're feeling adventurous, sample trung vit lon (fertilized duck eggs). Wash it down with Hanoian beer or a cup of the city's famous egg coffee. This drink was created when egg yolks were used as a substitute during shortages of fresh milk. 

Day 7: Transfer to Sapa, Stop at Black Hmong Village

Rise and shine! This morning, you're off to Vietnam's highlands, a wonderland filled with soaring mountains, terraced agriculture fields, and traditional hill tribe villages. Meet your driver at the hotel, then embark on the scenic drive north of Hanoi to the famous highland town of Sapa. Its misty green mountains are the stuff of legend, and there are plenty of natural wonders to keep you occupied during your stay.

The drive takes about 5-6 hours, but the route passes idyllic countryside dotted with verdant rice paddies, quaint villages, and lush mountains. There will also be stops for meals and to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air. Once in the highlands, you'll stop at a village in the Ta Giang Phinh Valley at the foot of Ngu Chin Son mountain. This area is home to the Black Hmong people, an ethnic tribal community known for their traditional handicrafts and authentic dress.

After spending time with locals and witnessing a more rural and traditional way of life, you'll continue from Ta Giang to Sapa. it's a one-hour drive, and upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel and have the rest of the day free. 

Day 8: Discover Sapa: Trekking & Village Homestay

Lace up your hiking boots because you've got a full day of trekking ahead of you. Meet your guide in the morning and transfer outside of Sapa to the trailhead. There, you'll embark on a 7.4-mile (12 km) hike around rice paddies and hill tribe villages.

As you descend into the scenic Muong Hoa Valley, you'll pass through two such villages—Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai—home to the Black Hmong people. With the help of your guide, you'll meet residents and browse their traditional handicrafts. Lunch will be served at the home of a local family in Lao Chai or a riverfront café.

Afterward, continue on the scenic trail, which passes alongside terraced rice fields backed by soaring mountain peaks. The last stop of the day is at Ta Van, a village home to the Giay people. They're known for their rich culture and traditional wooden stilt homes rising above the rice fields. Spend the night here at the home of a local family, with whom you'll have dinner.

Day 9: Day Trip to Waterfalls & Heaven's Gate, Transfer to Hanoi

Meet your driver after breakfast on a half-day excursion further up into the mountains for the best views of the Sapa countryside. It won't take long, either; less than a mile outside town, you'll pass beautiful sights like rose-flower farms, chayote vines, and thick bamboo forests. As you continue uphill, you'll be treated to incredible views of the mountain rice paddies and Mount Fansipan, which is Vietnam's highest peak at 10,324 feet (3,147 m).

The first stop will be at Thac Bac, more commonly known to foreigners as Silver Waterfall. Plunging 328 feet (100 m) down through a rich pine forest, this is not only one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region but also one of the biggest. It plunges over 328 feet (100 m) down through a rich pine forest.

Next up is the O Quy Ho Mountain Pass. Also known as Heaven's Gate, it's the highest mountain pass in Vietnam at 6,676 feet (2,035 m) and contains some of the north's most epic scenery. There will be plenty of time to snap photos of the surrounding mountain vistas and the Sin Chai Valley below. Afterward, you'll make the 5-6-hour transfer back to Hanoi and check into your hotel.

Day 10: Transfer to Ha Long Bay, Overnight Cruise

After an early breakfast, your private driver will pick you up at the hotel for the three-hour transfer north to the legendary Ha Long Bay. Located on the Gulf of Tonkin, over 1,500 karst islets rise above jade waters, resembling the spine of a mythological creature ("ha long" translates to "descending dragon"). The unique beauty of this region is unlike anywhere else and thus has earned UNESCO World Heritage status.

At the marina, you'll board the luxurious Athena Royal cruise ship for an overnight tour. After settling into your cabin, head to the dining room, where a delicious lunch awaits. Then, relax on the sun deck as the ship sails across placid emerald waters to the most secluded corners of the bay. Later that afternoon, you'll stop at a secret cove for a swim and a kayak trip to explore hidden beaches and grottoes.

Return to the ship in time for a cooking demonstration during which you'll try some famous Vietnamese dishes. Your appetite primed, head back to the dining room for a decadent buffet dinner. Afterward, you can spend the remainder of the evening relaxing or casting a line off the boat's stern to try and catch some squid.

Day 11: Morning Cruise, Transfer to Hanoi, Fly to Bangkok (Thailand)

Start the day strong with an early morning tai chi session on the deck surrounded by beautiful bay scenery. After a light breakfast, the ship will cruise to a karst cavern, which you can explore in a traditional boat. Afterward, you'll return to the ship and cruise to the Ha Long Bay pier, enjoying a late brunch as you go. Then, hop in a vehicle for the 3.5-hour ride back to Hanoi, arriving around 3 pm.

Once back in the city, you'll transfer to the airport by private vehicle and say goodbye to Vietnam as you catch a two-hour flight to Bangkok. Welcome to Thailand! Sitting on the Chao Phraya River, the capital of Bangkok is known for its wild and infectious energy, world-class street food, buzzing nightlife, and awe-inspiring Buddhist sights. Upon arrival at the airport, a driver will transfer you to your hotel.

Day 12: Visit Bangkok Temples, Night Food Tour by Tuk-Tuk

Get ready for a full-day tour of Bangkok's most iconic landmarks. Start in the city center with a trip to Pak Khlong Talat, a colorful market abounding with aromatic fresh flowers. Then, continue to the Grand Palace, a complex of intricate palaces and temples built in 1782, which served as the royal family's home for 150 years. Highlights include the Reception Hall, Coronation Hall, and Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the sacred Emerald Buddha, a 26-inch (66 cm) jade statue of a meditating Buddha.

After a break for lunch, you'll hop on a traditional long-tail boat and cruise a short distance along the Chao Phraya River to Wat Pho. Dating to the 13th century, this temple is famous for its massive Reclining Buddha statue that measures 49 feet (15 m) high and 150 feet (46 m) long. Finish the tour with a trip to the 17th-century Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), known for its towering 259-foot (79 m) central spire. Then, return to your hotel and spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing.

In the evening, you'll climb into a tuk-tuk (auto rickshaw) for a half-day food tour of Bangkok. It's the most efficient way to hit up as many of the city's most beloved eateries as possible. Throughout this tasty trip, you'll savor authentic Thai cuisine that includes authentic pad thai, mango sticky rice, and popular Thai snacks, all while learning about this nation's rich cultural heritage. The final stop is a rooftop bar to enjoy a drink while enjoying glittering views of the Chao Phraya lit up at night. Afterward, you'll transfer back to your hotel.

Day 13: Day Trip to Railway & Floating Markets

Today, you'll embark on a guided excursion to two exotic Thai markets outside the city. Leave in the morning on a transfer from Bangkok's urban jungle to Samut Songkharm, on the rural outskirts of the capital. Here, you'll visit the Mae Klong Railway Market, which sits along the tracks; when a train pulls in or out of the station, the vendors quickly clear their stalls, only to set them up again moments later when the train has passed.

Continue to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi, 62 miles (100 km) southwest of the capital. Paddle through the maze of canals past vendors selling fruit and handicrafts from their boats. Hail down the food vendors for a spot of authentic Thai food and witness traders selling fresh produce and handicrafts on their boats. Afterward, return to Bangkok for a final evening in the capital.

Day 14: Fly to Chiang Mai, Cooking Class with a Lanna Family

Leave Bangkok this morning and fly 1.5 hours north to Chiang Mai. Set in the mountainous north of Thailand, the "Rose of the North" was once the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom and still retains its moat-encircled Old City. This cultural mecca is home to historical architecture and over 300 temples where orange-robed monks live and worship.

After checking into your hotel, you'll be introduced to northern Thailand through its uniquely delicious cuisine. Head to a village on the city's outskirts, where you'll meet a Lanna family who live in a traditional teak home. Take a stroll through the orchard and garden, where the family grows everything from mangos and coconuts to Thai herbs and vegetables.

Pick some fresh ingredients for your cooking class, then head to the kitchen and learn to prepare a typical Lanna meal influenced by Lao, Burmese, Yunnanese, and Isan traditions. Dishes feature sticky rice as a staple, as well as soups and various minced, roasted, or grilled meats. Condiments like lemongrass, galangal (a type of ginger), and chili paste also play a prominent role. Dine on your creations before returning to Chiang Mai for a restful evening—or venture out and enjoy the nightlife. 

Day 15: Rickshaw Tour, Visit Temples with a Blessing Ceremony

Get ready for a tour of traditional Chiang Mai in a very traditional mode of transport: a rickshaw. This full-day excursion begins when you meet your driver, who will take you on an introductory tour of the Old City. Pedaling around, you'll pass historic landmarks like the ancient city walls and gates. One highlight is a stop at Warorot, a century-old market. Browse the stalls, stopping to sample seasonal fruit and sai oua (northern Thai sausage), accompanied by iced tea.

Later, say goodbye to your rickshaw driver and hop in a car for the drive to the foot of Doi Pui mountain, on Chiang Mai's outskirts, and Wat Umong. Dating to the 13th century, this temple is known for its ancient network of tunnels that Buddhist monks use as meditation chambers. The complex occupies a scenic and tranquil forested area with fountains, lakes, pavilions, pagodas, and an impressive chedi (stupa). Capping the visit is a private blessing ceremony by monks at the temple viharn (assembly hall).

After Wat Umong, follow mountain roads up to 3,500 feet (1,066 m) and the 14th-century Wat Prathat Doi Suthep. Chiang Mai's most famous temple features an enormous staircase decorated with ornate nagas (mythical beings, half human and half cobra). Hike the 306 steps to the top and marvel at the large chedi topped by a five-tiered golden parasol. Later in the afternoon, you'll transfer back to Chiang Mai.

Day 16: Day Trip to an Elephant Sanctuary

Today might be a highlight of the trip, as this morning, you'll hop in a vehicle and head to the forests outside the city and the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. This is just one of many centers in the region that rescue abandoned and abused elephants. These organizations earn money through tourism, opening their doors to visitors who can admire these magnificent creatures in a humane and eco-friendly way.

This half-day activity begins when you change into a mahout (caretaker clothing), after which you'll meet the elephants and spend the morning feeding them. You'll also take them to the river to bathe and brush them—a highlight for both the elephants and visitors. Back at the center, enjoy a snack of fresh fruit with the group and guides. Then, it's time to say a bittersweet goodbye to your new elephant pals and transfer back to Chiang Mai.

Day 17: Day Trip to the Chiang Mai Countryside

To experience the full spectrum of northern Thailand's charms, it's necessary to venture outside of Chiang Mai to the countryside—and meet the people in it. Meet your guide/driver this morning and transfer out of the city by vehicle on a half-day tour. Your first destination is the region's famous rice paddies (planting season is from Jun-Oct). Here, your English-speaking guide will introduce you to local farmers for a tour of the fields. During this hands-on experience, you'll learn the process of farming this staple food, from sowing the seeds to the final harvest. 

Then, leave the car behind and hop on a moto-tricycle (local transport) for a ride through a rural village to experience a more laid-back and traditional way of life. During this part of the tour, you'll visit a family home whose residents make khao kreab (steamed rice pancakes). Meet other artisans to learn how to make nam tung, a Lanna-style woven basket. The tour wraps up at the home of master weavers who make their traditional clothing. Afterward, say goodbye to your new friends and transfer back to Chiang Mai to enjoy the rest of the afternoon on your own.

Day 18: Fly to Phuket, Optional Activities

Rise early and meet your driver for the transfer to the airport and the two-hour flight south to the Andaman coast and Phuket. Thailand's largest island is known for its powdery beaches, neon nightlife, and world-class resorts. It's also home to diverse landscapes ranging from dense rainforest to palm-fringed beaches and craggy limestone cliffs. Upon arrival, you'll transfer to your hotel. After checking in, you can spend the rest of the day exploring.

If you like, head to a famous stretch of sand, like Patong, Kata, or Freedom Beach, for sunbathing and watersports like snorkeling and kayaking. However, the natural highlights of Phuket extend beyond the coast. The island has diverse landscapes, including forested hills, mountains, limestone cliffs, lagoons, and tropical forests. Many offer great hiking, like the trail up to the Black Rock viewpoint, which looks out over beautiful Cape Krathing.

Day 19: Phi Phi & Khai Islands Speedboat Tour

Today, you'll zip around the Andaman Sea to the Khai and Phi Phi archipelagoes—two of the most gorgeous groups of islands in the region. At the pier, hop in a speedboat for the ride to the Phi Phi Islands. Located 25 miles (40 km) east of Phuket, they're known for their film-worthy beaches and top snorkeling spots. Highlights include swimming and snorkeling at Pileh Lagoon and Viking Cave and visiting Phi Phi Ley's Maya Bay, which was the setting for the Leonardo DiCaprio movie, "The Beach."

Make a stop at Monkey Beach, home to cheeky macaques, and continue to the cluster of Khai Islands, famed for their powdery white sands which have staved off mass development. Here, you can laze on palm-shaded beaches, sip a cocktail, or snorkel among pristine coral reefs teeming with marine life. In the late afternoon, you'll transfer back to Phuket.

Day 20: Phuket Free Day: Old Town, Beach Time & Outdoor Adventure

For your final day in Phuket, you can pursue any activities you'd like. Perhaps start with a trip to Karon View Point to see the whole city laid out in front of you, as well as the grand vistas of Phuket's beaches. Follow up with a visit to the Big Buddha, a giant statue nearly 150 feet (45 m) tall and considered one of the island's most important landmarks. Then, visit the monastery of Wat Chalong, or head over to the Old Town district, where you can browse an outdoor market or dine at one of its many restaurants.

Of course, you can always make a beeline for the beach to sunbathe, kick back with a cold drink, or swim. For aquatic views of Phuket, embark on a snorkeling tour or visit the aquarium at Cape Panwa to stroll its underwater glass tunnel. If you're feeling adventurous, head to the forest and soar over the jungle canopy on a thrilling zipline tour. When the sun sets, enjoy a fresh seafood dinner, browse a night market, or revel in the nightlife at Bangla Road.

Day 21: Depart Phuket

All good things must come to an end. If you like, rise early and enjoy one last tropical sunrise before feasting on breakfast at the hotel. Later, meet your driver for the transfer to the airport and your flight home. Safe travels!

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