Day 1-- Thu feb 18 / Thu Nov 18	USA to Hanoi
Day 2-- Fri feb 19 / Fri Nov 19	Arrive Hanoi
Day 3-- Sat feb 20 / Sat Nov 20	Hanoi city tour
Day 4-- Sun feb 21 / Sun Nov 21	Hanoi for Halong Bay
Day 5-- Mon feb 22 / Mon Nov 22	Hanoi fly to Saigon. city tour
Day 6 - Tue feb 23 / Tues Nov 23	Saigon for My Tho Mekong River tour
Day 7-- Wed feb 24 / Wed NOV 24	Saigon fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia
Day 8-- Thu feb 25 / Thu Nov 25	Siem Reap for Angkor Wat
Day 9-- Fri feb 26 / Fri Nov 26	Siem Reap fly to Luang Prabang, Laos
Day 10 - Sat feb 27 / Sat Nov 27	Luang Prabang tour
Day 11 - Sun feb 28 / Sun Nov 28	Luang Prabang fly to Bangkok, Thailand
Day 12 - Mon mar 1 / Mon Nov 29	Bangkok city tour
Day 13 - Tue mar 2 / Tue Nov 30	Bangkok - USA

French Indochina is composed of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos—countries that were former colonies of France. Our Asian Explorer includes the most significant stops in each of these countries, providing an important overview of the region. You will discover the beauty of North Vietnam in Hanoi & Halong Bay, the vibrancy of South Vietnam in Saigon, the historic riches of the Khmer Empire at the amazing temples of Angkor Wat and the French colonial past in serene Luang Prabang. Each stops brings a new perspective on a diverse and exciting area of the world. End in Bangkok, never a part of French Indochina, but a must-see on any Southeast traveler's itinerary.

Day 1 – USA
Depart the USA on any regularly schedule flight to Hanoi.

Day 2 -- HANOI
Arrive Hanoi this morning and transfer to the hotel. Remainder of the evening at leisure.

Day 3 -- HANOI
Breakfast at hotel. Discover Hanoi this morning with your Vietnameseguide. Begin your tour at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (exterior). Behind the Mausoleum, you can see Ho Chi Minh's house. The simple house where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked is made of wood and enjoyed a tranquil setting, with a view of a lotus pond. Close by stands the “One-Pillar Pagoda” originally constructed in the 11th Century, and rebuilt in 1954, while close by is the “Dien Huu Pagoda”, known for its rich botanical gardens – both lasting images of Buddhism in Vietnam. You continue to the “Temple of Literature”, built in 1070 and then dedicated to Confucius, a serene retreat from the busy streets outside, and later becoming Vietnam's first university. Then on to visit ‘Ngoc Son Temple – Lake of the Restored Sword”. Take to the streets on foot for a walking tour of the “Ancient Quarter” or “36 Streets District”.   Ancient homes and temples are interspersed with stores in this souvenir hunter's paradise! Lunch at Wild Rice restaurant.

In the afternoon visit the disturbing but fascinating “Hoa Lo Museum”, the former war time prison most infamously known as the ‘Hanoi Hilton’. Spend the remainder of the afternoon exploring the fascinating 36 Streets on foot. Evening transfer to a theatre for a traditional water puppet performance followed by dinner.
Hotel Sofitel Metropole Hotel
Room Opera Room
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 -- HANOI - HALONG BAY - HANOI
Today you have an excursion to Halong Bay, a WORLD NATURAL HERITAGE.  Drive to Halong Bay (about 3 hours.) Arrive Halong, board a traditional “Junk” for a cruise through magnificent Halong Bay, - often called Vietnam's eighth wonder of the world!  Spectacular limestone outcroppings, cliffs, arches and coves compete for  space in what  is considered the most naturally beautiful area in the country – truly,  incomparable coastal scenery! Aboard our traditional Chinese-style sailing junk meander through the area whose name translates 'Where the Dragon Descends into the Sea'. Stop off at an island and climb through a series of breathtaking caves and grottoes, marvelling at some of the most impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations anywhere in the world. You have a seafood lunch on board. Afternoon, drive back to Hanoi and rest of the evening is at leisure.
Hotel Sofitel Metropole Hotel
Room Opera Room
Meals Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5 -- HA LONG BAY / SAIGON
Morning at leisure.  You will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City VN215/ 10.30 – 12.30. Drive to town and check in to the hotel. This afternoon, visit the former “Presidential Palace”, now “Reunification Hall”, made famous when a North Vietnamese tank crashed through the front gates on 30th April 1975, signaling the end of the Vietnam War.  It’s changed little since that time and is now maintained as a museum.  Your tour will include the reception and dining rooms of the President’s quarters, and the basement - still full of ancient American made telecommunications equipment and strategic military maps lining it’s walls.

Photo stops are included at the “Notre Dame Cathedral”, a Neo-classical structure dating back to the 19th century, and the beautiful Post Office building with a stop at either the War Museum or the History Museum made as well. “Ben Thanh Central Market” is delightful. You can find everything and anything from linen clothes and colorful silks, to dried noodles, fresh fish and flowers - all under one roof! Back in to the hotel to rest before departing for dinner.
Hotel Caravelle Hotel
Room City View
Meals Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6 -- SAIGON - MY THO (MEKONG DELTA) - SAIGON
Travel the bustling highway into the surrounding countryside pass lush, carefully tended rice paddies, before boarding your motorized sampan for a unique experience on the mighty Mekong Delta waterways.  You will see how, to the people of the Delta, the water is a lifeline - the focus of all daily activity - as you journey through a maze of tributaries and fruit plantations.  Enjoy a sample of delicious fruit in the shade of a fruit farmer's garden before continuing via even smaller waterways to lunch, where the speciality is a remarkable dish of 'elephants ear fish'. After lunch, return to Saigon.
Hotel Caravelle Hotel
Room City View
Meals Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7 -- SAIGON / SIEM REAP
The morning is at leisure until you transfer to the airport for a flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for check in. This afternoon, begin your visit of Angkor Wat at the magnificent Angkor Thom - last capital of the Khmers, with its Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King. Continue to the stunning Bayon temple.  This 12th century masterpiece lies at the very center of Angkor Thom and is an archaeological wonder of symmetry and grandeur. The exterior gallery walls have extensive bas-reliefs – notice the highlight is the “faces”, out-numbering 200 in all. They are silent, yet with the famous half-smile playing on their lips. PJ de Beerski wrote of them; “godliness in the majesty and the size, mystery in the expression.” Sunset at Angkor Wat temple. Dinner and overnight at La Residence d’ Angkor Hotel.
Hotel La Residence d'Angkor Hotel
Room Royal Deluxe River Side Room
Meals Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8 -- SIEM REAP
Breakfast at hotel. This morning, you will visit Angkor Wat, the largest temple in the world, with a volume of stone equaling that of the Cheops pyramid in Egypt. It is unlike all the other Khmer temples in that it faces west and is inspired by 12th Century Hinduism.  Its symmetrical towers are stylized on the modern Cambodian flag.  Conceived by Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat took an estimated 30 years to build. Well preserved to the present day, it is generally believed to have been a funeral temple for the king; although, it has been occupied continuously by Buddhist monks since its creation.  Intricate bas-reliefs surround Angkor Wat on four sides.  Each tells a story - the most celebrated being found in the east wing - “The Churning of the Ocean of Milk”, where the Naga serpent is twisted by demons and gods to spurt out the elixir of life.  Lunch at hotel.This afternoon, you will continue your exploration of the Angkor Temples at Ta Prohm, the temple that has been left largely in its natural state since its “re-discovery” by French explorers.  Surrounded by jungle, its labyrinth of stone hallways is overgrown with the roots and limbs of massive banyan trees, envelopping the stone like tentacles.   It is one of the largest temples at Angkor, dedicated in 1186 A.D.  Historians have noted its mystical charm. Now onto Preah Khan "The Sacred Sword", an extensive monastic complex covering over 56 hectares built by the Khmer King Jayavarman VII as a monastery and teaching complex. Preah Khan was the site of the World Monuments Fund ‘prime’ Asian project, a painstaking renovation which maintained its mysterious allure and superb original structure. Dinner and overnight at La Residence d’ Angkor Hotel.
Hotel La Residence d'Angkor Hotel
Room Royal Deluxe River Side Room
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 -- SIEM REAP / LUANG PRABANG
Breakfast at hotel. At leisure until you transfer to the airport for your flight to Laos.  Upon arrival at Luang Prabang Airport and once immigration formalities have been completed, you will be met by Coda's local guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in.  The remainder of the day is at leisure. why not book a massage this afternoon at one of the many charming massage houses in Luang Prabang?Dinner tonight is included at one of Luang Prabang’s highly regarded local restaurants for a great introduction to Lao-style cuisine.  After dinner (weather permitting), take a stroll through Luang Prabang’s fabulous Night Market with your local guide where there is an overwhelming selection of handicrafts on display, many produced and sold by locals from the small ethnic minority villages surrounding Luang Prabang.
Hotel Les 3 Nagas or Chang Heritage Hotel
Room Superior or Deluxe respectively
Meals Breakfast

Day 10 -- LUANG PRABANG
This morning there is the opportunity to start the day very early with one of the most memorable activities of Luang Prabang – the Tak Bat. At dawn hundreds of saffron robed monks move silently through the streets to collect alms (offerings of food). Your guide will explain the background behind this ritual which is still very much a part of everyday life in Laos. Return to your hotel for breakfast. After breakfast at the hotel, head off with your guide to visit Wat Xieng Thong - often said to be Luang Prabang’s most beautiful temple. It is characterized by its several roofs sweeping low to the ground and the impressive "Tree Of Life" mosaic.  We then visit Vat Visoun, the site of an impressive stupa (a dome shaped shrine, revered as That Makmo.  Walk to the nearby Vat Aham, which is one of the city’s major tutelary shrines built in 1822, dedicated to honoring Deveta Luang (spirits) and Pu Gneu Ya Gneu (ancestors).  If time permits, take a stroll through the H’mong Market – a gathering place for locals and ethnic minorities from the surrounding countryside. 

After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the National Museum, formerly the Royal Palace, displaying a  collection of personal artifacts from the former Laotian Royal Family.  Next we visit Vat Mai, built in 1796 and famous for its five-tiered roof built in the traditional style of Luang Prabang.  Phou Si Hill stands right in the center of this small city.  Climb its 350 steps to enjoy commanding views for many miles in each direction.  Vat Phou Si sits atop the mountain, along the side the skeletons of Indochina War anti-aircraft guns!  Sunset can be enjoyed with a cold drink at one of the cafes located along the Mekong River.  Return to the hotel. Dinner is at the hotel this evening.
Hotel Les 3 Nagas or Chang Heritage Hotel
Room Superior or Deluxe respectively
Meals Breakfast

Day 11 -- LUANG PRABANG / BANGKOK
After breakfast at the hotel, you have some time to relax or continue exploring this fascinating town at your own pace.  Your local guide will meet with you at the departure time and transfer you to the airport for your flight to Bangkok . Upon arrival in Bangkok, you will be met & greeted by Coda's representative and transferred by air-conditioned vehicle to your hotel for check-in . The remainder of the day and evening are at leisure for independent exploration of Bangkok.
Hotel Peninsula Hotel
Room Deluxe Room
Meals Breakfast

Day 12 -- BANGKOK
After breakfast, you will visit the “Grand Palace”. An architectural wonder of golden stupas, walls and pillars encrusted in shining and colorful mosaics. Previously the residence of the Kings of Thailand, here you will see Palaces which were used for different occasions: the Reception Hall, the Throne Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Royal Guest House and the beautiful Wat Phra Kaew which houses the Emerald Buddha Then, you will be transferred by boat to Supatra River House Restaurant for an authentic Thai lunch. This restaurant on the banks of the Chao Phaya River, opposite the Grand Palace, was formerly the home of Khunying (Lady) Supatra Singholaga, who was a leading advocate of women’s rights in Thai society.  The interior of the house has been divided into several dining areas.  The house was built in Thai Style and the views of the River, Grand Palace and Wat Arun are spectacular.

After lunch, take a step back in time and wander through Wang Suan Pakkard, the “Lettuce Farm Palace”, once the residence of Princess Chumbot of Nakhon Sawan.  The Palace is a collection of five traditional Thai-style houses including the “Lacquer Pavilion” which dates from the Ayutthaya period. The buildings are now home to a priceless Asian antique collection and exquisite wood carvings.  The landscaped grounds are a peaceful oasis, the perfect retreat from the noise and bustle of Bangkok.  The tour is completed with a visit to the private Thai-style house of Jim Thompson, the “father” of the famous Thai silk industry.  The house now serves as a museum with a small Asian art collection and some of his personal belongings. You may visit the Jim Thompson shop for a chance to browse. Return to the hotel. This evening, celebrate the end of a marvelous tour of the highlights of Southeast Asia.
Hotel Peninsula Hotel
Room Deluxe Room
Meals Breakfast

Day 13 --BAngkok / USA
Breakfast will be served at hotel. You will be transferred to Bangkok Suvarnbhumi Airport for your flight home according to your flight schedule.
Meals Breakfast

	SOFITEL METROPOLE HOTEL, HANOI This French colonial style building has stood proudly in the heart of Hanoi since 1901. The hotel has a rich history and a century long tradition of welcoming ambassadors, writers, heads of state and entrepreneurs
	CARAVELLE HOTEL SAIGON Built in 1956 overlooking the classic Opera House. After years as the town's address of note, the hotel became a shabby hangout for wartime journalists. On the day of Saigon's liberation, a tank pulled into the square out front of the hotel, aimed at the facade and didn't fire, to the delight of the many journalists in the bar. The Caravelle was renovated and expanded in 1998.
	LA RESIDENcE D'ANGKOR HOTEL, SIEM REAP This is an intimate luxury hotel near Angkor Wat, set within a leafy walled garden. From here you are ideally placed to explore Siem Reap and to visit the temples of Angkor Wat, one of the man-made wonders of the world. La Residence d'Angkor is an Orient Express Hotel.
	Les 3 NAGAS, LUANG PRABANG Restored in 2003, the hotel blends contemporary style with the buildings’ original architecture, seamlessly connecting the past and the present. Embark on a timeless cultural journey of discovery amid the hotel’s warm and inviting ambience, in the luxury of its exclusive collection of spacious rooms and suites, and in its authentic Lao cuisine – offering some of the finest destination dining in Luang Prabang.
	THE PENINSULA BANGKOK Commanding stunning views of the Chao Phraya River and city skyline, The Peninsula Bangkok brings the traditional Thai service combined with Peninsula perfection to create a legend of hospitality.

Rates

January 2010	Land Price	Intra-Tour Air (4 flights)*	Total Per Person
Double	$3995	$800	$4795
Single	$5595	$800	$6395
November 2010	Land Price	Intra-Tour Air (4 flights)*	Total Per Person
Double	$4195	$800	$4995
Single	$5795	$800	$6595
*All intra-tour airfares are subject to change until ticketed. These flights are in economy class and are not included in the Tour Rates and must be purchased with the tour.
Single rates can be avoided if you are willing to share. We will be happy to match you with another single traveler who also wishes to share. If no share is available, the single rate will apply.
Special Note - Rates are based on current rates and currency exchange rates at the time of publishing the tour on-line. Rates are subject to change until final payment has been made.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
A single entry visa for Vietnam is required for American/Canadian passport holders. For current costs and to download forms, we recommend using Zierer Visa Service. To Speak directly to ZVS Customer Service, call 866-788-1100 (toll-free in the U.S.). Please note that visas cannot be processed more than 90 days prior to departure and processing may take several weeks to complete. You may also apply directly with an Vietnamese Consulate in your area. For information, google the Vietnam Consulate nearest you (e.g. Vietnam Consulate New York). You must have a valid passport that remains valid six months past your return to the U.S. You should also have a minimum of two empty passport pages. Note that a Vietnam visa may also be obtained upon arrival at the airport in Hanoi (or Ho Chi Minh City.) To arrange for this, Coda Tours must submit all of your personal data in advance to the authorities. Please inform us at the time of booking if you wish to obtain your visa upon arrival. A Cambodian and Lao visa are obtainable upon arrival at the airports in Siem Reap and Luang Prabang and one passport photo for each country is required. The Cambodian visa may also be obtained on-line by applying here.

SHOTS
None required or recommended. It is recommended you have your regular vaccinations up-to-date before traveling. For further information, visit the Center For Disease Control website.

INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE
Cathay Pacific, United Airlines, Thai Airways, Korean Airlines, Japan Airlines, China Airlines are among airlines that can be used for this trip. We recommend booking at least 7 months in advance if you want to try to use Frequent Flyer Miles for free tickets or upgrades or the American Express Platinum card 2-4-1 program.

MINIMUMS
All departures are guaranteed on a minimum of 6 participants. A Coda Tour Manager accompanies the tour on a minimum of 10 participants. This tour can be operated as a Private Tour, can be customized and repriced based on final itinerary.

INCLUSIONS

• Accommodations as listed in the itinerary on bed and breakfast basis
• Meals as described in the itinerary
• Arrival and departure transfers for those who purchase international air through Coda Tours. If air is not purchased through us, transfers may be charged additionally
• Sightseeing tours as described in the itinerary
• Expert, English-speaking guides to conduct the sightseeing
• American tour manager on minimum participation

EXCLUSIONS
International & intra-tour airfares. Visa and passport expenses. Meals not mentioned in the itinerary. Drinks with meals unless specified. Trip interruption & cancellation insurance. Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, faxes, wireless service and gratuities to guides and drivers.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES / AVERAGE RAINFALL

Farenheit		Hanoi	Saigon	Siem Reap	Luang Prabang	Bangkok
High	Nov	76	87	88	85	88
	Jan	66	88	89	90	90
Low	Nov	66	66	74	64	74
	Jan	58	58	71	67	77
Inches	Nov	1.7	1.8	2.3	1.2	2.3
	Jan	0.7	0.6	0.4	0.6	0.4

Extend your trip in SOUTHEAST ASIA

Following your trip to Vietnam & Cambodia, you may wish to spend a few days in Bangkok or perhaps at one of the beaches in Thailand, such as Phuket or Koh Samui. You might also wish to go to Northern Thailand and visit Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai. Just let us know where you want to go!