National Geographic Journeys Logo

Journeys: Discover Southeast Asia

18 days, From Bangkok to Siem Reap, From $4,399 USD
National Geographic Journeys Logo
BANNER_DESKTOP
Journeys: Discover Southeast Asia

From $5,499 USD

$4,399 USD/ person
20% off
Valid on

Mar 28, 2026

Duration

18 days

Special offers
  • Save 10%

    Departure date Mar 14, 2026
  • Save 20%

    Departure date Mar 28, 2026
  • Save 10%

    Departure date Apr 11, 2026

Tour Overview

THE EXPERIENCE REVEALED
Trip CodeATING
Days18
FromBangkok
ToSiem Reap
Countries VisitedVietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand
Countries VisitedVietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand
Immerse yourself in the natural and cultural heritage of Indochina, from tranquil Buddhist temples to shimmering palaces, legendary jungle cities to colourful, chaotic markets. Cruise the serene waters of otherworldly Ha Long Bay and wander amid the vine-covered courtyards of Angkor. Learn the secrets of Thai cuisine with a local chef, witness a Laotian almsgiving tradition, and soak up Southeast Asia’s heady blend of old and new at every step of the journey.

Is this tour for me?

Travel Style
National Geographic Journeys
Service Level
Upgraded
Physical rating
2 - Light
Trip Type
Small Group
Age Requirement
12+
Under age 18 must be with an adult
18Trees for Days
70Ripple Score

From $5,499 USD

$4,399 USD/ person
20% off
Valid on

Mar 28, 2026

Duration

18 days

Special offers
  • Save 10%

    Departure date Mar 14, 2026
  • Save 20%

    Departure date Mar 28, 2026
  • Save 10%

    Departure date Apr 11, 2026

Tour Highlights

WHERE STORIES COME TO LIFE

What’s included

  • AccommodationHotels – 16 nts, junk boat – 1 nt.
  • Meals Included17 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 2 dinners
  • TransportPrivate vehicle, boat, Songthaew (local truck), plane, cyclo, walking.

The Extras

  • Your flightCall us, we can help.
  • Street Food Walk at Chiang Mai Night MarketOptional activity (additional cost).
  • Chiang Mai Cycling TourOptional activity (additional cost).

18 days, Bangkok to Siem Reap

YOUR EXPEDITION, DAY BY DAY
Map of Journey
Week 1/2
Week 1/2
Start DateJan 31
End DateFeb 17
Sold out
Start DateFeb 7
End DateFeb 24
!Request
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateFeb 14
End DateMar 3
Sold out
Start DateFeb 21
End DateMar 10
!Request
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateFeb 28
End DateMar 17
Sold out
Start DateMar 7
End DateMar 24
Sold out
Start DateMar 14
End DateMar 31
6 available
$5,999 USD
$5,399 USD/person
Start DateMar 28
End DateApr 14
7+ available
$5,499 USD
$4,399 USD/person
Start DateApr 11
End DateApr 28
7+ available
$5,499 USD
$4,949 USD/person
Start DateMay 2
End DateMay 19
Sold out
Start DateMay 16
End DateJun 2
Sold out
Start DateJun 13
End DateJun 30
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateJul 4
End DateJul 21
Sold out
Start DateJul 18
End DateAug 4
Sold out
Start DateAug 8
End DateAug 25
Sold out
Start DateSep 12
End DateSep 29
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateSep 26
End DateOct 13
Sold out
Start DateOct 3
End DateOct 20
Sold out
Start DateOct 10
End DateOct 27
7+ available
$5,499 USD/person
Start DateOct 24
End DateNov 10
7+ available
$5,499 USD/person
Start DateNov 7
End DateNov 24
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateNov 14
End DateDec 1
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateDec 5
End DateDec 22
Sold out
Start DateDec 19
End DateJan 5
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateDec 26
End DateJan 12
Not bookable
Start DateJan 2
End DateJan 19
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateJan 7
End DateJan 24
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateJan 9
End DateJan 26
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateJan 16
End DateFeb 2
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateJan 23
End DateFeb 9
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateJan 30
End DateFeb 16
Sold out
Start DateFeb 6
End DateFeb 23
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateFeb 13
End DateMar 2
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateFeb 20
End DateMar 9
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateFeb 27
End DateMar 16
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateMar 6
End DateMar 23
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateMar 13
End DateMar 30
Sold out
Start DateMar 20
End DateApr 6
7+ available
$5,499 USD/person
Start DateMar 27
End DateApr 13
Sold out
Start DateApr 10
End DateApr 27
Sold out
Start DateMay 1
End DateMay 18
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateMay 15
End DateJun 1
Sold out
Start DateJun 12
End DateJun 29
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateJul 3
End DateJul 20
Sold out
Start DateJul 17
End DateAug 3
Sold out
Start DateAug 7
End DateAug 24
Sold out
Start DateSep 11
End DateSep 28
Not bookable
Start DateSep 18
End DateOct 5
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateSep 25
End DateOct 12
Sold out
Start DateOct 2
End DateOct 19
7+ available
$5,499 USD/person
Start DateOct 9
End DateOct 26
7+ available
$5,499 USD/person
Start DateOct 16
End DateNov 2
Sold out
Start DateOct 23
End DateNov 9
7+ available
$5,499 USD/person
Start DateNov 6
End DateNov 23
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateNov 13
End DateNov 30
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateNov 20
End DateDec 7
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateDec 4
End DateDec 21
Not bookable
Start DateDec 18
End DateJan 4
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateDec 25
End DateJan 11
7+ available
$5,999 USD/person
Start DateJan 1
End DateJan 18
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateJan 6
End DateJan 23
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateJan 8
End DateJan 25
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateJan 15
End DateFeb 1
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateJan 22
End DateFeb 8
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateJan 29
End DateFeb 15
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateFeb 5
End DateFeb 22
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateFeb 12
End DateFeb 29
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateFeb 19
End DateMar 7
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateFeb 26
End DateMar 14
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateMar 4
End DateMar 21
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateMar 11
End DateMar 28
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateMar 18
End DateApr 4
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateMar 25
End DateApr 11
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateApr 8
End DateApr 25
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateApr 29
End DateMay 16
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateMay 13
End DateMay 30
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateJun 10
End DateJun 27
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateJul 1
End DateJul 18
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateJul 15
End DateAug 1
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateJul 29
End DateAug 15
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateAug 5
End DateAug 22
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateSep 9
End DateSep 26
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateSep 16
End DateOct 3
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateSep 23
End DateOct 10
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateSep 30
End DateOct 17
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateOct 7
End DateOct 24
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateOct 14
End DateOct 31
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateOct 21
End DateNov 7
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateNov 4
End DateNov 21
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateNov 11
End DateNov 28
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateNov 18
End DateDec 5
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateNov 25
End DateDec 12
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateDec 2
End DateDec 19
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateDec 16
End DateJan 2
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person
Start DateDec 23
End DateJan 9
7+ available
$5,099 USD/person

Reviews from our travelers

Take it from them

Frequently asked questions

Expedition essentials
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Meet with Monks, Chiang Mai Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Traditional Thai Home Dinner, Chiang Mai Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Cambodian Circus Performance and Talk, Siem Reap Your G for Good Moment: Meal with Local Baan Ou Community, Luang Prabang Your G for Good Moment: Kym Viet Local Enterprise Visit, Hanoi Your G for Good Moment: New Hope Vocational Training Restaurant, Siem Reap Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group Your Foodie Moment: Cooking Class, Chiang Mai Your Discover Moment: Luang Prabang Your Discover Moment: Kym Viet Craft & Lunch, Hanoi. Arrival transfer. Tour of Bangkok including boat ride on the klong (canals). Visit the temple at Doi Suthep. Orientation walk of Chiang Mai night market. Tour of Luang Prabang. Boat tour to Pak Ou cave temples. Kuang Sii waterfall excursion. Hanoi old town cyclo tour. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum visit. Halong Bay overnight cruise. Ho Chi Minh City cyclo tour. Cu Chi tunnels tour. War Remnants Museum visit. Phnom Penh cyclo tour. Tuol Sleng Prison Museum tour and Choeung Ek memorial (the "killing fields") tour. Siem Reap orientation walk and night market. Two-day guided tour of Angkor Wat. Internal flights. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Enjoy a traditional khantoke dinner in a rural village, enjoy a visit and talk with a monk at an historic Chiang Mai Temple, have lunch at a training restaurant for disadvantaged youth, witness an outstanding performance at Phare (the Cambodian circus), take thrilling cyclo rides for a different perspective in bustling cities
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However, it is subject to change and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
Effective May 1, 2025, all travelers entering Thailand through air, land, or sea must complete the Thailand E-Arrival form. You must register at least 3 days before arrival. Please see Trip Details for more information.
ACCOMMODATION NOTE: Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary. WEIGHT RESTRICTION There may be a weight restriction for the internal flight on this tour. Each passenger is allowed to carry one checked bag with a maximum weight of 20kg (44lbs). Additional bags or excess weight charges may apply. These charges are the responsibility of the passengers.
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our National Geographic Expedition Leader throughout. The aim of the Expedition Leaders is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
Max 16, Avg 10.
17 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 2 dinners
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally, meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what, and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally, food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your Expedition Leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. Included breakfasts in some places may be Asian style consisting of noodles or congee (rice porridge) or bread and eggs. Vegetarians will be able to find a range of different foods, although in some areas the choice maybe limited. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Private vehicle, boat, Songthaew (local truck), plane, cyclo, walking.
Please be advised that any flights noted on the G Adventures Itinerary for this tour are included in the tour services provided. Flight tickets are provided by G Adventures during the tour. The date for this service will match the day of the itinerary, for which Day 1 is equal to the start date noted on the Invoice under Land Services: Tour. If flight information is required in advance for visa purposes, please contact G Adventures. There may be a weight restriction for the internal flight on this tour. Each passenger is allowed to carry one checked bag with a maximum weight of 20 kg (44lbs). Additional bags or excess weight charges may apply. These charges are the responsibility of the passengers.
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Hotels – 16 nts, junk boat – 1 nt.
Night 9 (overnight boat)
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent. An arrival transfer is included when you arrive on Day 1, or if you arrive up to three days prior provided that you have booked your pre-accommodation through National Geographic Journeys in our joining hotel. Due to customer experience and quality considerations, all services related to the tour must be continuous. Our driver will be waiting for you with a National Geographic Journeys sign, and they will be waiting for you outside the luggage hall. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi. Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day. Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your Expedition Leader. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your Expedition Leader and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details! If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your Expedition Leader will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your Expedition Leader (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. For your airport transfer, please meet your driver at gate number 4 of the airport, in the arrival hall. Look for a driver holding a National Geographic sign with your name. If you have still have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. AIRPORT TRANSFER  If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that: Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. Included arrival transfers are provided from the nearest airport to your starting location. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel.  If your call is specifically concerning Bangkok Airport Transfer complications please call our local G Adventures Transfer provider directly at:+66 86 321 0729 (086 321 0729 from within Thailand) or +66 82 450 2777 (082 450 2777 from within Thailand) EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS 24/7 emergency number: From outside Thailand: +66 92 338 9222 From within Thailand: 092 338 9222 If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found <a href='https://www.gadventures.com/contact-us/'>here</a>. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
If you would like to book an airport Departure transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.
What you need to bring depends on the trip you have chosen and the countries or regions you are planning to visit. We suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as you are expected to carry your own luggage. As a rule, we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bag around15kg/30lb. Suitcases are not recommended for G Adventures trips! Most travellers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!). You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like iPods and mobile phones.
Conservative Dress: • Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders) • Shawl or scarf (for temple visits) Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) • Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies) Essentials: • Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.) • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Headphones (Noice-cancelling recommended) • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Swimwear • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.) • Hand sanitizer • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) Smart Dress: • Smart outfit (For evenings out) Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sturdy water shoes/sandals • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Please note that visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself with the Embassy. Please, keep in mind that all countries require passports valid for at least 6 months from the moment of departure from the country. Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information page <a href='https://www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/prepare-for-your-tour/'>here</a> Thailand: Most nationalities do not need a visa for Thailand for stays of 30 days or less but if you do they are available on arrival at Bangkok Airport. If staying in Thailand for more than 30 days, you will be required to obtain a tourist visa in advance. Only 15 day tourist visas are issued when entering Thailand overland. As of May 1st 2025, all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand by air, land or sea must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before arrival. Register within 3 days of arrival. For more information and to complete the Arrival Card, we kindly request the you visit the <a href="https://tdac.immigration.go.th/arrival-card/#/home">Thailand Immigration</a> page. ******************** Vietnam: If you require a visa for Vietnam, they need to be arranged ahead of time (BEFORE your trip) as the processing time varies (minimum 2 weeks) and they are not available upon arrival. Vietnamese E-Visa can be applied for <a href='https://dichvucong.bocongan.gov.vn/bocongan/bothutuc/tthc?matt=26277'>here</a> Entry to Vietnam with an eVisa is supported at 13 airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports - details can be found <a href='https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/en_US/trang-chu-ttdt'>here</a> ******************** Laos: If you are eligible to apply for a Laos E-Visa, please follow the below links for further information and application: E-Visa Details <a href='https://laoevisa.gov.la/info/'>here</a> E-Visa Terms and Conditions <a href='https://laoevisa.gov.la/term/'>here</a> Apply for E-Visa <a href='https://laoevisa.gov.la/index/'>here</a> If applying for the Laos E-Visa, please enter the entry port name as: Luang Prabang International Airport (Luang Prabang Province) As of September 1st 2025, all non-Laos nationals entering Laos by air, land or sea must complete the Lao PDR Immigration Card online before arrival. Register within 3 days of arrival. For more information and to complete the Immigration Card, we kindly request the you visit the <a href="https://immigration.gov.la/en/home">Laos Immigration</a> page. ** please note, the Laos E-system may not be available for all arrival points. If your arrival point is not listed, you will be required to fill in a paper form on arrival. ** ******************** Cambodia: Visas can be obtained in advance from your local embassy or on arrival in Bangkok (if your tour begins in Thailand). You will need at least one full working day to arrange this. You can also obtain your visa at the Cambodian border or Siem Reap Airport for approx. $30 USD. Please have *at least* 2 passport photos with you as well. If you are arriving into Cambodia by air/plane, please complete the Cambodia e-Arrival form online before arrival. Complete within 7 days of arrival, even if your visa has already been granted. For more information and to complete the e-Arrival form, we kindly request the you visit the <a href="https://arrival.gov.kh/">Cambodia e-Arrival</a> page. ** please note, the Cambodia E-system may not be available at land borders. If your arrival point is by land, you will be required to fill in a paper form on arrival. ** Information is accurate as of September 1st, 2025.
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
During this tour, the local currencies you will use are the Thai Baht, Laos Kip, US Dollar, Cambodian Riel, and Vietnamese Dong. As currency exchange rates in South East Asia do fluctuate, we ask that you refer to the following website for the most up to date daily exchange rates: www.xe.com for each of the above mentioned currencies. The best way to carry your money is in debit cards, withdrawing cash in local currencies from ATM machines. ATMs are found throughout South East Asia and will generally accept cards on the Visa and Mastercard networks. It is a great idea to travel with both a Visa and Mastercard if at all possible in case of loss or problems with one card, you will have a back up. Please note, your bank will charge a fee for overseas withdrawals. USD Cash is recommended for times when ATMs are not accessible. You should bring some cash with you for emergency situations (please refer to our trip dossier) but carrying only cash is a high safety risk. ATM card/s and some cash is the ideal mix. Credit cards can be used at some upmarket restaurants, and at some larger stores if shopping for big items. If you are bringing US Dollars, please make sure that the notes are new and in good condition. Notes older than 2003, or with any tears or blemishes may not be accepted. Be fussy with your bank when buying cash!
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $250 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket
On our National Geographic tours, tipping is included for all included activities and meals, and porterage. Tipping is not included for the Expedition Leader. Should you want some basic guidelines on tipping for the activities you do on your own, please see below. At the end of each trip if you felt your National Geographic Expedition Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline would be $10-$15 per person per day. For meals and activities not included in your itinerary, it is appropriate in Asia to tip 10%. Though not compulsory, tipping is expected. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels and shows an expression of satisfaction.
Chiang Mai - Street Food Walk at Chiang Mai Night Market - Chiang Mai Cycling Tour (1500THB per person) Luang Prabang - Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre Entry (35000LAK per person) - Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre Visit (Free) - Night Market Visit Hạ Long Bay - Kayaking (10USD per person) Hanoi - Vietnamese Women's Museum (1.50USD per person) - Hanoi Foodie Culture Tour - Hoa Lo Prison Entry (1.50USD per person) - Temple of Literature Entry (2USD per person) - Fine Arts Museum (2USD per person) - Museum of Ethnology Visit (2USD per person) Ho Chi Minh City - Benh Tan Market Visit - Reunification Palace Visit (2USD per person) Phnom Penh - Royal Palace Visit - Silver Pagoda Visit (10USD per person) - National Museum Visit (10USD per person) Siem Reap - Angkor Museum Visit (12USD per person) - Tonle Sap Floating Village (25-30USD per person)
Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia, pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our Expedition Leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash, and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your Expedition Leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your Expedition Leader will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip, you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your Expedition Leader will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions. Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately. Water-based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our Expedition Leaders to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s). Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit: <a href="http://www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/"> www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/</a>
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes which are the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Be aware that petty theft can be an issue in some Vietnamese towns and cities especially late at night. A common tactic is opportunists on motorbikes that drive by and snatch bags. Please always leave valuables and passports etc in your hotel, in safety boxes if available, and only carry with you enough cash to spend for the day. Bags should always be carried over the neck and not left to sit on your shoulder. We do not recommend passengers to jump or dive into Kuang Sii Waterfalls in Luang Prabang, this may result in injury.
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trip. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our Expedition Leaders have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your Expedition Leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures’ itineraries globally. G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need. G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with <a href="https://planeterra.org/">Planeterra Foundation</a>. Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment. Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.
When packing be aware that dress standards are conservative throughout Asia. To respect this and for your own comfort, we strongly recommend modest clothing. This means covering shoulders and no very short shorts. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly hot Asian climate. Shorts should be knee-length.
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.
Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at <a href="https://www.gadventures.com/subscriptions/newsletters/">www.gadventures.com/newsletters/</a> Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for <a href="http://letsgo.gadventures.com/Planeterra-Consumers_Planeterra-Newsletter-Signup-Page.html">Planeterra's monthly news</a> to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
National Geographic Expedition Leader
Max 16, avg 12
The safety and well-being of all of our travelers is a priority at G Adventures and that includes our travelers who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. We recognize that there are specific concerns and questions you may have about your adventure in terms of safety and security. We encourage you to visit our <a href="https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/lgbtq-travel/">LGBTQ+ page</a> for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout the duration of your trip. The Equaldex tool linked on this page can be of particular help when deciding where you may want to visit next.