Indochina Family Adventure

From Hanoi you’ll travel (approx 4 hours) by charter minibus to the coast and beautiful Halong Bay, whose name means ‘descending dragon’. The name derives from a Vietnamese legend that the gods sent a dragon to protect the people there. Arriving around lunchtime (after a stop at the Sao Do Charity Centre, where you can buy crafts made by disabled youngsters), you’ll jump straight on a boat in this secluded bay, marvelling at the 2000 limestone peaks that emerge from the sea. You’ll have the opportunity to visit spectacular caves crammed with stalactites and stalagmites and, weather permitting, to swim from your boat, before spending the night on-board your airconditioned boat (with private facilities).

Cruise Boat - Berth in twin-cabin - 1 night (BLD)

Arriving in Danang you take a mini bus (approx 1 hour) to Hoi An.  The port of Hoi An is a relaxed and laid-back place, where cars are prohibited from the narrow streets of the old town, preserving the atmosphere in the centre as it would have been in colonial times. Settled over the years by a variety of nationalities, including the Spanish and Portuguese, the old town is a fascinating place to visit. The fading beauty of the beautiful shops, houses and cafés add to the charm; Hoi An is bound to be a highlight of the trip. Walking or cycling are the only ways to soak up the atmosphere of the old streets and a walking tour with your guide is included. You can walk down to the riverside market where fresh fish are unloaded and through the backstreets of this colourful town, past temples to the covered Japanese Bridge. You will visit the Children's Hope in Action Centre, which is a community based project, and meet some local kids here.

The rest of your time is left free to relax in this beautiful area. You could take a taxi or make the easy five-kilometre bicycle ride through the rice paddies and shrimp ponds to Cua Dai beach. Alternatively Hoi An is one of the best places to shop for souvenirs, especially if you’re looking for t-shirts, paintings or ceramics. For those interested in getting clothes tailored, this is definitely the place to shop – see Top Tips.  You may also arrange a cooking lesson to learn some new dishes to cook back home.

Van Loi Hotel (AAA) - 3 nights - Swimming Pool (Bx3)

Take a flight to Phnom Penh in Cambodia this morning and say farewell to your Vietamese group leader who leaves you today and on arrival in Cambodia you will be met by a new Cambodian leader. After checking into your hotel you will take a boat cruise on the Mekong River. There is plenty to watch as a plethora of floating craft of all shapes and sizes go about their daily business, you may see a floating market, life along the river bank is also interesting viewing. No doubt many local children will wave to you as you pass them by. The following day is free for exploring, there are some great markets to visit, or you can see the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda.

Ohana Hotel (AAA) - 2 nights - Swimming Pool (Bx2)