14 days

From £12,880

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Trip Type

Tailor-made

Destinations

Thailand, Vietnam

Group Size

Private

Reserve Online Or Call 0208 350 6199

Private Tour

Cultural journey across Vietnam & Thailand with luxury experiences

Essence of Vietnam & Thailand Explorer

Saigon to Chiang Mai – 14 Days

Expedition Overview

This luxury journey through Vietnam and Thailand takes you from the vibrant streets of Saigon to the serene temples of Chiang Mai. In Vietnam, explore the cultural contrasts between fast-paced Saigon, tranquil Hoi An, and historic Hanoi. Discover colonial landmarks, bustling markets, and the ancient Cu Chi Tunnels. Enjoy guided walks, river cruises, traditional performances, and a taste of Vietnam’s celebrated cuisine and crafts, while immersing yourself in the country's cultural treasures and cultural richness.

In Thailand, delve into Bangkok’s rich spiritual heritage and dynamic city life before escaping to the peaceful northern highlands. Stay at some of Southeast Asia’s most luxurious resorts while exploring ancient temples, lush rice fields, elephant sanctuaries, and artisan villages. Optional experiences such as spa treatments, cooking classes, and countryside cycling ensure a balanced mix of culture, comfort, and leisure. This multi-centre tour offers a complete picture of Southeast Asia’s diversity, blending heritage, landscapes, and wellness in one seamless journey. Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning natural beauty of Vietnam and Thailand.


Highlights

SAIGON HERITAGE AND WAR HISTORY: Visit Saigon’s famous buildings like the Reunification Palace and learn about the Vietnam War at the War Remnants Museum and Cu Chi Tunnels. Walk through the bustling streets of Chinatown, try Vietnamese coffee and banh mi, and enjoy a guided tour that shows how the city mixes history with modern life.

HOI AN CULTURE AND RIVERSIDE CHARM: Explore the ancient town of Hoi An, visit old houses and the Japanese Covered Bridge, and shop at the morning market. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the river. You can also visit a local tailor, try tasty local dishes, and unwind on the pristine beaches near this peaceful and charming town.

BANGKOK TEMPLES AND THAI TRADITIONS: Take a boat ride along Bangkok’s canals and visit top sights like the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and Wat Pho. Walk through colourful markets, enjoy time at a luxury spa, and discover how Thai culture and city life come together in this exciting capital.

CHIANG MAI WELLNESS AND NATURE: Stay at a peaceful resort in the mountains of Chiang Mai. Visit temples, see monks collecting alms, and spend time at an elephant sanctuary. Choose from fun activities like cooking, hiking, or planting rice. This relaxing place is great for learning about Thai culture and enjoying nature.

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Why Asian Geographical?

The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.

DAY 1

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Arrive in Saigon and get a taste of old and new. Visit colonial landmarks, the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum. Walk through Chinatown (Cholon) where the streets are buzzing. Try Vietnamese iced coffee and a local banh mi sandwich. Your guide will fill you in on the city’s past and present as you see the main sights in the city center. From French architecture to local markets—such as the iconic Ben Thanh Market—this is the perfect introduction to Saigon’s energy, history and culture.

DAY 2

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Today we visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a powerful reminder of Vietnam’s war past. Crawl through the tunnels and learn about the Vietnamese people’s resilience with the guidance of a knowledgeable tour guide. Then join a walking tour of the Cao Dai Temple and watch a colourful religious ceremony. In the afternoon you can choose from optional activities such as a boat trip, a music performance, a street food tour, or private tours for a more personalized experience. These will give you a deeper insight into Saigon’s diverse culture and local life.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

DAY 3

Hoi An & Danang

Fly to Hoi An and check into your beachfront resort. This peaceful ancient town is famous for its heritage and charm. Visit the morning market and traditional homes, ancient temples and the Japanese Covered Bridge. Spend time at a tailor’s shop and have clothes made to measure. Later, take a slow boat ride along the Thu Bon River and see Hoi An from a different angle. Enjoy authentic local dishes at a local restaurant. The day is a mix of sightseeing and relaxation.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 4

Hoi An & Danang

More of Hoi An today with a visit to the Museum of Cham Sculpture and the Marble Mountains, a cluster of limestone hills with hidden caves and temples known for their scenic beauty. You can choose extra activities like cycling through villages, where you’ll pass by lush rice paddies, a cooking class or market visit to sample local delicacies. The afternoon is perfect for relaxing at your resort or walking on the beach. Whether you want to explore or unwind, today is a balanced day of Hoi An’s culture and nature.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 5

Hanoi

Arrive in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, and start to see the capital’s main sights. Visit the Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and the House on Stilts. Explore the historic imperial city sites that showcase the city's royal heritage. Walk through the Old Quarter’s narrow streets, located in the city centre, full of life and colour. Learn about the area’s history as you pass colonial buildings now turned into cafes and boutique shops. End your day by Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful spot in the heart of the city surrounded by trees and French architecture.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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Hanoi

DAY 6

Hanoi

More of Hanoi today with visits to two great museums: the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and the Fine Arts Museum. Both will give you an insight into the country’s cultural significance and showcase the rich local cultures of Vietnam. Later, go on a market tour led by a local guide and try local dishes such as bun cha and pho cuon. In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show or see a performance at the Hanoi Opera House, both of which reflect the cultural significance of the region. The day is a feast of food, art and entertainment.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 7

Bangkok

Fly to Bangkok and take a private long-tail boat tour along its canals and see the city from a different angle. Visit the Grand Palace, the former residence of the royal family, and see the Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew. Visit Wat Pho, home to the giant Reclining Buddha, and Wat Arun across the river. These are some of Thailand’s most important sacred sites. Enjoy a cultural immersion as your guide explains the history and religious meaning while you explore the golden temples and royal architecture of this bustling city.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 8

Bangkok

Begin the day with an early breakfast before heading out to Bangkok’s local markets full of flowers, clothes and handmade crafts. Wander through the stalls and get a feel for everyday Thai life. Entrance fees for included attractions are covered, ensuring a seamless experience. Then unwind with a spa session at one of Bangkok’s world-class wellness centres. The afternoon is free to explore the city’s galleries, shop for art or try Thai food in a riverside restaurant. Today is about the energy and calm of Bangkok.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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Bangkok

DAY 9

Bangkok

Last day in Bangkok, where you can revisit favourite places or discover something new. Visit another temple, join a Thai cooking class or take a river cruise for unforgettable moments along the Chao Phraya River. If you prefer, simply relax with a spa treatment or shop for local art and fashion. Whether you want culture, food or rest, there’s time to do it all. Your last day in Bangkok brings together the best of the city—heritage, comfort and unique experiences, and this tour promises to deliver unforgettable moments you’ll cherish.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 10

Chiang Mai

Fly to Chiang Mai, surrounded by mountains and rice fields. Check into one of Asia’s top luxury resorts. This afternoon visit a temple on a mountaintop with stunning views of the city and countryside, where you can take in the breathtaking landscapes and stunning landscapes that stretch across the region. If you wake early you can see Buddhist monks walking through the streets to collect alms, a peaceful sight. Chiang Mai is a calm and spiritual welcome after the busy streets of Bangkok and Saigon.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 11

Chiang Mai

Today visit an ethical elephant sanctuary where you’ll learn about the animals and help feed or bathe them. The experience is meaningful and respectful, focused on conservation. Later return to Chiang Mai to explore more of the old town. Visit beautiful temples, walk through the local markets, and experience a traditional floating market, where you can see vibrant boats and local trade on the water. Try northern Thai dishes and immerse yourself in the diversity of local cultures. Today combines nature, culture and connection with Thai traditions in an authentic way.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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Chiang Mai

DAY 12

Chiang Mai

Choose how you want to spend today. You might go golfing, hiking in the mountains, or take a cycling trip through the countryside—these activities can be arranged as private tours for a more personalized experience with a local guide. Families can enjoy fun activities together, or you might want to learn Thai cooking in a hands-on class. Explore local markets for handmade crafts or visit more temples. Whether active or relaxed, today is tailored to your interests and gives you a personal experience of Chiang Mai’s nature and culture.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 13

Chiang Mai

Today more chances to explore Chiang Mai in your own way. Join local farmers in a rice planting activity in the rice paddies or choose another countryside walk. If you prefer a slower pace enjoy your resort’s facilities or revisit parts of the city that interest you. This final full day offers meaningful ways to connect with the land and people, leaving a lasting impression of Northern Thailand’s beauty and hospitality.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 14

Chiang Mai - Departure

Two weeks of culture and relaxation come to an end in Chiang Mai. Think back on your time in Vietnam and Thailand – from the streets of Saigon and Bangkok to the temples of Hoi An and Chiang Mai. An airport transfer will be provided to ensure a smooth departure as you head to the airport for your flight home.

Meals Included: Breakfast


The story

When designing the Essence of Vietnam & Thailand Explorer, we wanted to create a Vietnam tour that balanced culture, nature, and luxury across two of Southeast Asia’s most diverse countries. We carefully selected destinations that offered strong contrasts—modern cities like Saigon and Bangkok, balanced with peaceful places like Hoi An and Chiang Mai. Our goal was to ensure guests could experience not just the famous landmarks but also the rhythm of local life, through food tours, village visits, and time with expert guides. As part of the curated experiences, we included a halong bay cruise and immersive overnight cruises, allowing guests to explore iconic destinations in comfort and style.

We also considered comfort and pacing, choosing luxury resorts with wellness options, allowing time to unwind between busy cities. Seasonal weather, flight connections, and cultural festivals were all reviewed to ensure smooth transitions and enriching experiences. Most importantly, we designed the tour to appeal to curious, comfort-seeking travellers—those who want insight into each destination but also value privacy, flexibility, and meaningful moments throughout their trip.


What To Expect

Our expedition’s flexible approach allows us to adapt to new opportunities and conditions. We offer a range of activities from easy to moderate, tailored to your preference. Participants should be fit for activities such as walks, treks, and visits to cultural sites, with options for more strenuous hikes. Unique excursions may include visits to floating villages, offering cultural interactions and a glimpse into local river life. Our trips are suitable for families.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Our tours feature the finest accommodations in each destination, from charming boutique hotels to cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay with authentic cuisine. We carefully choose each location for its alignment with our itinerary and the activities planned, prioritising comfort and local experience.

TRANSPORTATION: All transportation for your tour is meticulously planned according to the itinerary. On cruise experiences, a dedicated cruise manager oversees onboard activities and ensures guest comfort throughout the journey. For personal explorations beyond the scheduled activities, your Expedition Leader is ready to suggest the best transportation choices, ensuring your travel within the tour is seamless and tailored to your interests.

Dates & Prices

Date
Double
Single

Date

1 Jun - 01 Jun, 2025 Reserve online

Prices From

£12,880 pp

Ship

N/A

Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in British pounds (GBP) and are subject to change. Please refer to the terms and conditions of this trip for further details.

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Why travel with us

Tailored Luxury

Your entire holiday is designed around your personal preferences

Travel at your own pace with full itinerary flexibility

Choose from handpicked, luxury hotels & resorts across Asia

Enjoy seamless logistics, private transfers, and 24/7 assistance

Expert Knowledge

Our package holiday team has decades of experience in luxury Asia travel

Receive first-hand advice from specialists who know each destination intimately

Gain access to hidden gems and authentic local experiences

Sustainable Travel

Our aim is to stay committed to responsible travel in Asia

We partner with eco-conscious providers

Itineraries include experiences that preserve Asia’s cultural and natural heritage

PROTECTED SERVICES

Travel with complete confidence under full ATOL protection

Fully bonded and financially protected for your peace of mind

Established in 2014

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