Indochina Insider
Indochina's beauty exists not only in the stunning Khmer carvings at Angkor Wat, but also in the smiles of monks at a Lao village, in the sight of Vietnamese fishermen paddling on the South China Sea, and in an encounter with giggling school kids at a centuries-old pagoda. Slow your pace to match the richness and diversity of your surroundings. With our team of extraordinary local experts (from a Buddhist monk to an art historian), we bring to life the intertwined cultures of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, as well as the traditions, landscapes, political histories, languages and lifestyle that make each country unique. You'll delve into Indochina's fascinating cultural roots, as well as its wildly dynamic - and equally intriguing - modern culture.
Behind the Scenes in Angkor
Cambodia's ancient capital will leave you speechless with its lofty spires, giant carved images and beautiful bas-reliefs. Exploring Angkor's iconic sites in a style far more authentic than large groups ever could, we also venture into the Cambodian countryside to engage the vibrant local life, as well as explore quieter, less-visited ruins. Our expert guide brings the stones to life, revealing the intricacies of temple design and Buddhist mythology, along with Cambodian life since the demise of the Khmer Rouge.
Central Vietnam
Striking karst formations rising from the green landscape. A forested mountain peninsula jutting into the East China Sea. Rice paddies and palm-lined beaches. An Imperial City with its ancient citadel and battle-scarred temples. And a picturesque village, once a Viet Cong stronghold, that remains well off the tourist maps. Our Insider Trip immerses you in exotic Central Vietnam, illuminating contemporary life alongside ageless traditions.
Authentic Encounters
Ferry across Vietnam's Thu Bon River the local way: among baskets of fish and motor scooters, joined by women in conical non la hats and bearded old men smoking clay pipes. Meet our friend Chuong, headman of Tho Ha village who leads us through the maze of narrow alleyways for exclusive access to the local temple (he's the only one with the keys!). Here you truly discover someone else's world, far from the guidebook landmarks.
Timeless Luang Prabang
Leave the 21st century behind as you enter the ancient Laotian kingdom of Luang Prabang, a World Heritage site. There's something magical about this small city filled with Theravada Buddhist temples - home to some 1,000 saffron-robed monks and novices, who wander through the mist on their early-morning alms rounds. You'll meet a friend of ours, a monk who gives you a traditional blessing and escorts you into his wat, or temple.
A Flavorful Journey
Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos share a common heritage of fishing and the cultivation of rice, vegetables and fruit. And while they have distinctive cuisines, each draws inspiration from its neighbors. Rice and fish sauce figure prominently, as do delicious herbs and spices famed for their therapeutic powers. Garlic, chili peppers, lemon grass, mint, ginger and curries are blended in exceptionally fresh, healthy and balanced foods - you'll explore the markets, sample every delicious taste on the menu and even get the opportunity to make your own regional cuisine with the help of local chefs.
Exotic Elegance: Premiere Inns
Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor (2 nights): This exquisite hotel is just minutes from the main temple complex of Angkor Wat, and remains the classic choice in Siem Reap, featuring elegant furnishings and artwork, a full-service spa, expansive gardens and outstanding cuisine.
The Nam Hai (2 nights): Set on a tranquil stretch of China Beach, this new luxury resort is praised by Travel+Leisure for having "three swimming pools, spacious grounds, and a stunning spa with sublime overwater relaxation rooms - plus great extras, such as the luscious wool-and-cotton-blend bathrobes and outdoor showers."
La Residence Hotel & Spa (2 nights): Nestled on the banks of the Perfume River, this boutique hotel features stylishly decorated guest rooms, a saltwater pool, a tennis court and spa.
Hotel Sofitel Metropole (2 nights): It's easy to see why this restored landmark - with its resplendent façade and elegant French-colonial ambience - is a favorite of Travel+Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler and National Geographic Traveler, which calls it "the most storied and beloved of Hanoi institutions."
La Residence Phou Vao (2 nights): This beautiful hotel - long considered the region's top resort - welcomes you with large open-lan guest rooms, private verandas, an exotic spa and an infinity pool with stunning panoramas of this World Heritage city and the misty valley below.
2009 DATES
CLASSIC TRIPS
- 1/25-2/4Price: $6198 pp dbl. occ., (+ $1400 for sgl. occ.), Internal Air: $900
The trip you have selected is different from the one displayed. Here's how:
Hotel Variation: On Days 9 & 10, we stay at Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel in Luang Prabang. - 9/19-29Price: $5998 pp dbl. occ., (+ $1400 for sgl. occ.), Internal Air: $900
- 12/3-13Price: $5998 pp dbl. occ., (+ $1400 for sgl. occ.), Internal Air: $900
2010 DATES
CLASSIC TRIPS
- 1/24-2/3Price: $6298 pp dbl. occ., (+ $1400 for sgl. occ.), Internal Air: $990
- 3/3-13Price: $6298 pp dbl. occ., (+ $1400 for sgl. occ.), Internal Air: $990
- 9/18-28Price: $6298 pp dbl. occ., (+ $1400 for sgl. occ.), Internal Air: $990
- 12/2-12Price: $6298 pp dbl. occ., (+ $1400 for sgl. occ.), Internal Air: $990
Reserve early for the best available price. Prices may change during the course of the year--if they do change, the best prices are available earlier. Once you book your trip, your price is guaranteed.
Guest Trip Reviews
Backroads is really excited to add our latest way to explore the world - Insider Trips - to our award-winning biking, hiking and multisport vacations. These are experiences you cannot have behind the wheel of a car, or on a train or a tour bus, or in a few excursions from a cruise ship or a secluded resort.- Backroads President and Founder