Excursion Mid-voyage land adventure: laos, the heart of the indochinese peninsula tour at Ho Chi Minh

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, and Luang Prabang, the ancient capital of the Luang Probang Province of northern Laos, are home to many of the nation's most important and stunningly beautiful temples, monuments, and museums. Discover these and other exquisite historical landmarks during this picturesque, two-night overland excursion to Laos. Highlights of your stay in Vientiane include Wat Sisaket, famous for its cloister wall with thousands of miniature Buddha statues, Pha That Luang, the national icon of Laos with its main stupa of gold leaf, and the Patuxai Monument, often compared to the Arc de Triumph in France. In Luang Prabang, an UNESCO World Heritage Site of breath-taking natural beauty, hike through a forest to the stunning Kuang Si Falls and visit the meditation temple of Wat Prabath. Next, marvel at the richly-decorated Wat Mai Temple, regal trappings of the Royal Palace Museum, and revered Wat Xieng Thong (Temple of the Golden City), home to the renowned Tree of Life mosaic.

02MIDSGN-V Laos, the Heart of the Indochinese Peninsula

Duration: 3 Days/2 Nights

Departs from: Ho Chi Minh at approximately 12:00 p.m.

Re-join ship: Bangkok at approximately 4:30 p.m.

Reserve by: At least 90 days prior to sailing

IMPORTANT NOTE

This Silver Shore Mid-Land Adventure requires advance booking through Silversea Reservations no later than 90 days prior to the sail date. Requests received after this date may be accommodated on a space-available basis. Tickets are available in limited quantities, and participation cannot be guaranteed for those guests not booking well in advance. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme. If this minimum number is not met, Silversea reserves the right to offer the programme at a different rate based on private arrangements, or to cancel the specific departure. Cancellation fee, unless otherwise advised, 90 - 0 days prior to the initial sailing date: 100% of the programme fare per person is due.

Payment in full is due at time of final payment. Bookings made within 120 days of sailing require full payment within seven days of booking or sooner, as specified by Silversea.

All Land Adventure fares are subject to change, and not guaranteed until payment is received in full by Silversea. All Land Adventures are non-transferable, and non-refundable, within 90 days of sailing. Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older. All Land Adventures are owned by independent contractors, and Silversea makes no representations and assumes no responsibility for the services provided by these operators. Land Adventures may be modified by the operators at their sole discretion.

VISA INFORMATION:

Please check with your travel professional for details regarding visa requirements for India. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain all appropriate visas before cruising.

LOCAL CURRENCY:

The local currency is the Lao Kip; however, US Dollars are well-accepted by most vendors. Local ATMs are available in some locations visited, and credit cards are accepted in most larger shops and hotels (shopping stops are planned during this program).

Discover the most important and beautiful temples, monuments, and museums of Laos during this picturesque, two-night overland excursion.

DAY ONE - Saturday, February 25, 2023 - Ho Chi Minh City/Vientiane

Disembark the ship and transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport for your scheduled flight to Vientiane

After disembarking the ship, meet your guide and transfer to Ho Chi Minh Airport for check-in and your scheduled, approximately three-hour, 10-minute afternoon Vietnam Airlines flight (#VN 920), departing at approximately 3:45 p.m. and arriving in Vientiane at approximately 6:55 p.m.

Transfer to your hotel for check-in

Upon arrival at Wattay International Airport and after passport and visa formalities, meet your guide and transfer to the Settha Palace Hotel for check-in and some free time to freshen-up before dinner.

Settha Palace Hotel

Built in the 1930s, this landmark hotel in Vientiane underwent extensive restoration, and now serves once again as a testament to classical elegance and gracious service.

Dinner is at the hotel.

Overnight accommodations in a Deluxe Room at the Settha Palace Hotel - Vientiane

DAY TWO - Sunday, February 26, 2023 - Vientiane/Luang Prabang

After breakfast and check-out, meet your guide and depart for a sightseeing tour of Vientiane

After breakfast at the hotel and check-out, meet your guide and depart for a scenic sightseeing tour of Vientiane, Southeast Asia's 'biggest village'. An eclectic blend of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, and American influences make Vientiane a charming and fascinating capital city.

Explore the major highlights of the city, beginning with the Wat Sisaket Temple

During your morning tour, see the major highlights of the city, most of which are in relatively close proximity to each other. Your first stop is at the Wat Sisaket Temple, famous for its cloister wall with thousands of miniature Buddha statues. Built in the Siamese style by King Anouvong in 1818, Wat Sisaket is Vientiane's oldest surviving monastery. Its grounds are richly planted with a variety of vegetation that is lovingly tended, so Wat Sisaket serves as a restful retreat, too.

Visit Pha That Luang, Laos' most important national monument with its main stupa of gold leaf

Next, proceed for a visit to the most important national monument in Laos, Pha That Luang. This impressive, gold-covered stupa is a symbol of both the Buddhist religion and Lao sovereignty. The exterior of the 'Great Stupa' resembles a fortress surrounded by high walls. The main stupa stands approximately 148 feet (about 44 metres) tall, and is covered with gold leaf.

Stop at the imposing Victory Gate, touted as Vientiane's own Arc de Triumph

Before heading to the airport, a photo stop is made at the imposing Patuxai Monument (Victory Gate), touted as Vientiane's own Arc de Triumph. It was built in the 1960s to commemorate those who fought in the struggle for independence from the French.

Transfer to Wattay International Airport for check-in and your scheduled flight to Luang Prabang

Leaving the Patuxai Monument, transfer to Wattay International Airport for check-in and your scheduled, approximately 45-minute morning Lao Airlines flight (#QV 101), departing at approximately 11:30 a.m. and arriving in Luang Prabang at approximately 12:15 p.m.

Transfer to your hotel for check-in and lunch

Upon arrival at the Luang Prabang Airport and after passport and visa formalities, meet your guide and transfer to the Victory Xiengthong Palace Hotel for check-in and lunch.

Drive through hills with spectacular views, terraced rice fields, and farmlands to the Kuang Si Falls

After lunch, meet your guide and depart for the scenic drive to Kuang Si Falls, located approximately 18 miles (about 30 kilometres) out of town along a road winding through hills with spectacular views, terraced rice fields and farmlands. Closer to the falls, the weather gets a bit cooler due to the higher elevation and its forest location.

Take a hike to the picturesque Kuang Si Falls

From the parking area, a short hike on a well-maintained forest trail leads up approximately 279 feet (about 85 metres) to the viewpoint of the falls. Upon arrival, marvel at the cascades. Typical of travertine waterfalls, they are intermingled with basins and pools, and offer wonderful photo opportunities. Please be careful whilst walking around the falls area, as the ground may be wet and slippery.

After a photo and comfort stop here, browse the souvenir shoppes lining the square

After a photo and comfort stop here, retrace your steps down to the parking area, where you can browse the souvenir shoppes lining the square.

Please note: Caution is urged whilst walking around the falls area, as the ground may be wet and slippery. The restroom facilities here are very limited and basic.

Stop by the meditation temple of Wat Prabath for lovely views of your surrounds

Leaving the falls, re-board your coach and head back towards Luang Prabang. En route, a stop is made at Wat Prabath. Nestled on a hillside, this meditation temple offers lovely views of your surrounds. Often, orange-clad monks can be seen mingling on the grounds of Wat Prabath.

Transfer back to the hotel, with an optional stroll through the night market

Following your visit, re-board your coach and transfer back to the hotel. En route, you may opt to take a stroll through the night market in the downtown area before returning to the hotel for some free time to freshen-up before dinner.

Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at Le Elephant, one of Luang Prabang's most popular restaurants

This evening, meet your guide and depart for dinner served at Le Elephant, one of Luang Prabang's most popular restaurants. After dinner, transfer back to your hotel.

Overnight accommodations in a Palace Room at the Victoria Xiengthong Palace Hotel - Luang Prabang

DAY THREE - Monday, February 27, 2023 - Luang Prabang/Bangkok

After breakfast and check-out, discover the mountain beauty and major sites of Luang Prabang

After breakfast and check-out, meet your guide and discover the major landmarks of Luang Prabang, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The beautiful setting, splendid scenery, and blend of foreign influences have earned the town top billing as the country's showpiece. Located at an elevation of approximately 2,296 feet (about 700 metres) above sea level, Luang Prabang is encircled by impressive mountains, and wedged between the Mekong and Khan Rivers. As the former royal capital of the Lan Xang Kingdom, Luang Prabang has long been a centre of culture and preserved heritage.

See charming colonial architecture and ornate temples, including the richly decorated Wat Mai

The highlights of Luang Prabang can be seen within a short period of time, and include ornate temples and charming colonial architecture. A stop at Wat Mai offers a unique opportunity to admire the most richly decorated of all the temples in Luang Prabang.

Visit the Royal Palace Museum, former residence of the Kings of Luang Prabang

Next, visit the nearby Royal Palace Museum. Once the residence of the kings of Luang Prabang, the museum exhibits feature a collection of personal memorabilia of the royal family, including photos, musical instruments, and numerous gifts received from dignitaries of foreign countries. Many of the rooms have been preserved since the day of the revolution when the royal family was forced into exile.

Please note: Shoes must be removed prior to entering the museum; we suggest bringing along a pair of thick socks, because the pavement may be very hot.

Stop by the Temple of the Golden City, and marvel at one of the best-known works of art in Laos

Next, proceed to Wat Xieng Thong (Temple of the Golden City), one of the most important temples in Laos. The temple's rear wall is adorned with one of the best-known works of art in Laos, the exquisite Tree of Life mosaic.

Transfer to Luang Prabang Airport for your scheduled flight to Bangkok

Leaving the Temple of the Golden City, re-board your coach and transfer to the Luang Prabang Airport for check-in and your scheduled, approximately two-hour afternoon Bangkok Airways flight (#PG 942), departing at approximately 12:15 p.m. and arriving in Bangkok at approximately 2:30 p.m.

Transfer to the pier and ship

Upon arrival at Bangkok Airport and after passport and visa formalities, transfer to the port. Upon arrival at the pier, embark the ship.

Please note: This Mid-Voyage Land Adventure involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 5 miles (about 8 kilometres), at times over uneven, bumpy, gravel, and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and board/de-board the airplane, and many steps at the sites visited. This tour is recommended for active guests in good physical condition. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with a fear of heights, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, raingear, a sweater or light jacket, camera, any necessary medication, and local currency or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Proper attire is required to enter religious sites; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Shoes must be removed prior to entering the temples; we suggest bringing along a pair of thick socks, because the pavement may be very hot. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Guests must carry their passports and ship's ID at all times. Local conditions may be challenging; therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique and somewhat remote destinations. Coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions. We thank you for your understanding. For your added safety and protection, please leave jewellery, valuables, and large amounts of cash on board the ship. Guests should be respectful towards local sentiments and customs. The pick-up and transfer to the ship in Bangkok is not included, but taken care of by Thailand agent. The tour sequence, timings, and itinerary are subject to change without prior notice, and airline alterations to the flight schedules may affect the tour itinerary, tour sequence and/or programme content. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Programme Includes:

One-night stay in a Deluxe Room at the Settha Palace - Vientiane
One-night stay in a Palace Room at Victory Xiengthong Palace - Luang Prabang
Scheduled flights: Ho Chi Minh City/Vientiane, Vientiane/Luang Prabang, and Luang Prabang/Bangkok (Economy-Class). Business-Class is available upon request at an additional charge and subject to availability, as most aircraft do not offer business seating

Participating airlines restricts baggage allowance to one soft luggage with a maximum weight of approximately 44 pounds (about 20 kilograms) and a maximum size of approximately 11x17x27 inches (about 29x44x68 centimetres) per person. Supplement for excess luggage is to be paid directly at the check-in counter. Passengers with more than approximately 22 pounds (about ten kilograms) of excess luggage must check-in at least two hours prior to departure. Maximum weight per item: approximately 44 pounds (about 20 kilograms)

Two breakfasts, one lunch and two dinners, with drinks included
Tour the Wat Sisaket Temple, Pha That Luang Monument, and the Victory Gate - Vientiane
Visit Kuang Si Falls, the Wat Prabath Temple, Night Market, Wat Mai Temple, Royal Palace Museum, and the Temple of the Golden City with its Tree of Life mosaic - Luang Prabang
Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at the Le Elephant restaurant - Luang Prabang
All sightseeing and transfers as per itinerary

Not Included:

Any meals and drinks not specified above, gratuities to drivers and tour guides, laundry, telephone calls, cancellation insurance, and other personal items.

Note

9th and 13th centuries, Angkor was the capital of the Khmer empire, a colossal city renowned for its superb architecture and sculptures, vast lakes and temples.Hidden in the jungles of Cambodia until the late 19th century, it's one of the world's greatest wonders, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Silversea's Mid-Voyage Land Adventure gives you an in-depth look at the Angkor Wat site that includes many structures still intact, including the grand Angkor temple.02MIDCHM-G Angkor Wat! Duration: 2.5 Days / 2 Nights Departs from: Chan MayRe-join ship:Ho Chi Minh CityReserve by:90 Days Prior to the Start of the Cruise This Mid-Voyage Land Adventure requires advance booking through Silversea Reservations no later than 90 days prior to the start of your cruise. Requests received after this date may be accommodated on a space-available basis and the programme price is subject to change. Payment in full is due within 120 days prior to sailing. This programme is non-refundable if cancelled within 90 days of sailing.A minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme.IMPORTANT:Guests must bring two passport-sized photos (2"X2") with them.Once the capital of the Khmer Empire from 800 AD to approximately 1200, Angkor spreads out over an area of about 40 miles (63 km). The city and its famous temples were abandoned in the early 15th century and remained unknown to the outside world until 1860, when a French botanist stumbled upon them in the jungle overgrowth. Today, travellers flock to Angkor to see this spectacular temple city, rated among the world's premier architectural sites and since 1992 on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Your Mid-Voyage Land Adventure begins with an exploration of Cham civilization and the city of Da Nang before you travel to Cambodia to explore Angkor Wat.Experience the magical Angkor Temple City, acclaimed as being one of the most incredible ancient religious monuments in the World and Asia's most famous archaeological attraction.DAY ONE - Chan May/Da Nang/Siem Reap Depart the ship immediately after arrival and begin your day with the hour's drive to Da Nang, Vietnam's third largest city.It was on Da Nang's coast where the first U.S. troops landed on March 8, 1965. Despite its war-torn history, Da Nang is one of the most progressive cities in Vietnam.Among its highlights is the renowned Cham Museum, housing close to 300 Cham sculptures.Stop here for a guided look at Cham history before arriving at the Embroidery Workshop to see the artisans who can spend months on a single piece, with embroidery themes that include Vietnamese daily life and literature. The ancestor of this embroidery workshop came from Hue and trained many generations of workers, dedicated to this form of art.Next, a short drive takes you to Marble Mountain for a brief photo stop.King Minh Mang in 1837 named the mountains of Ngu Hanh after the five basic elements of the universe: Kim mountain (metal); Moc mountain (wood); Thuy mountain (water); Tho mountain (earth); Hoa mountain (Fire); (Hoa mountain consist of two peaks). Then, proceed to Marble Mountain Village.Here, thousands of stone statues have been created by the skilful hands of the area's talented workers.Most marble is transported here from Thanh Hoa province.Of particular note are the different coloured pieces, very interesting to most stone lovers. Complete your look at Da Nang with a stop at Sandy Beach.Often referred to as "China Beach", Sandy Beach is more than 25 miles (40 kilometres) long.During the Vietnam War, American Marines and South Korean troops used this area as a base camp.Since then, many famous resorts have been built along the beach.Sip a local drink, relax and enjoy the sea breeze, sun and sand.If you feel adventurous, climb the nearby mountain with more than 100 steps to see both the area pagoda and caverns, or just to admire the view of Da Nang, before a light lunch at one of the resorts.After lunch, the coach delivers you to Da Nang Airport for your onward flight to Cambodia.Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to the five-star Sokha Angkor Hotel. Located in the heart of Siem Reap, the hotel's decor is inspired by the local culture. Check-in and relax before dining at the hotel. (Your photograph will be taken at the hotel and your temple pass issued, facilitating admission to the temple sites next morning.)Overnight accommodation is at the Sokha Angkor Hotel - Siem Reap.DAY TWO - Siem Reap/Angkor WatAfter breakfast, begin your day with a visit to Angkor Wat temple, the most famous of the Angkor sites and the largest Buddhist monument ever built. It spans an area of 500 acres (202 hectares), and is surrounded by a 660-foot-wide (201-meter-wide) moat. The construction required some 385,000 workers and 40,000 elephants over a 35-year period. The site remained covered by dense jungle growth until the late-19th century, when French archaeologists began a long restoration process. While some sections are still in ruins, others are used for worship and are occupied by Buddhist monks. Entrance to this majestic and vast complex is via a long causeway across the moat. Then begin your exploration with a guided walking tour through corridors and courtyards. The walls are covered with bas-reliefs featuring battle scenes, dancing deities and visions of punishment in hell and rewards in paradise. The temple's central building is three stories high and accessible via a steep staircase (only recommended for very fit and agile guests).After an extensive visit of approximately two hours, continue your exploration with a visit to the Angkor National Museum as a preview to the Angkor temple. Through interactive exhibits you will be able to gain a deeper understanding of tradition and different beliefs of the ancient empire. Statues, remnants from the great temples themselves, as well as artefacts depict all manner of social customs throughout the evolution of the unique Khmer civilization.Next, head to a local hotel where your buffet-style lunch awaits. Then proceed to Angkor Thom.Angkor Thom, the former capital of the Khmer Empire. King Jayavarman VII established Angkor Thom in the late-12th century. It spans 3.5 square miles (90.65 square km), and features 25-foot-high (7.6-metres-high) gates at each of the cardinal points. After entering via the narrow South Gate, continue to Angkor Thom's most significant sites, including Bayon, a temple known for its 49 towers and a terrace full of colossal heads with smiling faces. The stunning architecture and unusual décor makes Bayon one of the most visited sites at Angkor Thom. Other highlights include the Terrace of Elephants and the Leper King, representing one of Angkor's many mysteries. Exit the site of Angkor Thom for the short drive to Ta Phrom. The temple is reached via a footpath through the forest and your first glimpse is of an extraordinary sight. The invading jungle-like growth has been left in place. Serpentine trunks of towering fig trees wind around the temple ruins, across walls and through doorways, creating an incredible atmosphere. Ta Phrom is also featured in scenes of Angelina Jolie's movie, Tomb Raider.As you enter and exit the sites of Angkor, you may notice children selling various souvenirs.To promote education of the area's youth, Silversea has made a donation on your behalf to the school of the local orphanage to encourage education and the betterment of these children. As the day concludes, return to the hotel. Dinner this evening is enhanced by a performance of lovely Apsara dancers.Overnight at Sokha Angkor Resort Hotel - Siem Reap.DAY THREE - Siem Reap/Ho Chi Minh CityFollowing breakfast and check out, you are transferred to the airport for a morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival and following Immigration formalities, a transfer coach will take you to the port