Escorted Tours 2023-2024

of Ethnology, then visit the intricate Ngoc Son Temple that resides on Hoan Kiem Lake. Later in the day experience a charming water puppet show. Day 10: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay B/L/D After breakfast, travel through the Red River Delta’s expansive rural landscape to Ha Long Bay. Over two thousand limestone karsts protrude through the azure waters of the Gulf of Tonkin; begin your overnight cruise by joining smaller ‘junk’ boats within this mystical seascape, disembarking at Thien Canh Son. Enjoy an authentic cooking demonstration before sampling traditional dishes. Day 11: Ha Long Bay to Hanoi BR/D Enjoy the rising sun’s incandescent shimmer over Ha Long Bay during your morning Tai Chi session. Following breakfast, transfer on to a rowing boat for the opportunity to witness the fishing community of Vung Vieng village. Upon returning to your ship, sail back to the harbour for a scenic drive to Hanoi for your final night in Vietnam. Day 12: Hanoi to Luang Prabang B/D Relax this morning before leaving late afternoon for your short flight to Luang Prabang, the jewel of Indochina. Mirroring the character of Laos, French colonial architecture juxtaposes ornate Buddhist temples overlooked by rolling hills layered with pristine forests, home to the remarkable Indochinese Tiger. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for an evening at leisure. Day 13: Luang Prabang B/L/D The full-day tour begins with a cruise along the Mekong, passing temples, luscious jungles and forming spectacular waterfalls. Further upstream, disembark to explore the Pak Ou Caves and their haunting collection of rejected Buddha statues. Continue to Ban Xang Hai to sample the robust flavours of Laos famous rice whiskey. Return to dry land and ascend Phou Si Hill to marvel at the sun setting behind Luang Prabang city. Day 14: Luang Prabang to Siem Reap B/D After breakfast, fly to Siem Reap. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with an evening at leisure. Day 15: Siem Reap B/L/D Leave the town of Siem Reap and visit the remarkable 1st century Banteay Srei temple which, boasts some of the world’s finest sandstone carvings depicting Hindu tales. This afternoon experience the tranquil floating village of Tonle Sap lake, a fascinating network of stilted houses overlooking fragile fishing boats, followed by the nearby old market for your final taste of this enchanting land. Day 16: Siem Reap B/L/D This morning tour the ruins of the Angkor region. Discover an assortment of ancient treasures including the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, a temple complex constructed to represent the earthly abode of Hindu Gods, which is reflected in both its enormity and grandeur. Day 17: Siem Reap to the UK B After breakfast, depart on your return flight via Hanoi or continue on to your chosen extension. Luang Prabang, Laos Thien Mu Pagoda Hoi An Mui Ne Meal plan: 14 breakfasts, 1 brunch, 10 lunches and 14 dinners Accommodation: Saigon, 4 H Golden Central Hotel Hoi An, 4 H Hoi An Central Boutique Hue, 4 H Moonlight Hotel Hanoi, 4 H La Casa Hanoi Ha Long Bay, Victory Cruise Luang Prabang, 4 H Villa Santi Resort Siem Reap, 4 H Tara Angkor Flights: London Heathrow to Vietnam with Vietnam Airlines Tour pace: Challenging Extend your tour Mui Ne beach stay, 4 nights, 4 H B&B from £539 or Half Board from £579 Private Tour Upgrade Upgrade to a private tour to include your own guide and transport, plus your choice of departure date from £499 Departures & from prices 8 & 15 Apr 23 £2,999 9 Mar 24 £3,199 6 May 23 £2,799 23 Mar 24 £3,199 20 May 23 £2,699 6 Apr 24 £3,399 3 Jun 23 £2,699 13 Apr 24 £3,199 17 Jun 23 £2,599 4 May 24 £2,899 8 Jul 23 £2,949 18 May 24 £2,749 29 Jul 23 £2,999 1 Jun 24 £2,649 9 & 16 Sep 23 £2,999 15 Jun 24 £2,899 7 Oct 23 £2,999 6 Jul 24 £2,999 14 Oct 23 £2,999 27 Jul 24 £2,999 28 Oct 23 £3,099 7 Sep 24 £2,999 11 & 25 Nov 23 £3,099 14 Sep 24 £3,099 2 Dec 23 £3,099 5 Oct 24 £3,199 13 Jan 24 £3,299 12 Oct 24 £3,199 20 Jan 24 £3,399 26 Oct 24 £3,199 27 Jan 24 £3,299 9 Nov 24 £3,199 17 & 24 Feb 24 £3,199 23 Nov 24 £3,199 2 Mar 24 £3,199 30 Nov 24 £3,199 • A single supplement starts from just £589 • Tipping paid locally $98 65 Hundreds more escorted tours are available on our website www.mercuryholidays.co.uk East Asia