Cultural Capitals of Southeast Asia Tour 21-Day

Three countries in three weeks — Thailand, Laos and Vietnam — moving from Bangkok's temples and markets up into the hills around Chiang Mai, down the Mekong into Laos, then across to Vietnam's old towns and cities.

It's a proper overland route rather than a single-country holiday: palaces and floating markets, a jungle trek and elephant care day, a river cruise, waterfalls and cave temples, then a shift in pace and culture again once you cross into Vietnam.

Good for anyone who wants a broad first look at Southeast Asia rather than going deep in one place — you'll cover a lot of ground and see how the region changes as you move through it.

What you'll do

• See the Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha in Bangkok
• Wander Damnoen Saduak floating market and the Maeklong railway market
• Climb to Doi Suthep Temple above Chiang Mai
• Trek in the Mae Tang region and spend a half-day on elephant care, no riding
• Cruise the Mekong to Luang Prabang, stopping at the Pak Ou Caves
• Visit Kuangsi Waterfalls before continuing on to Hanoi, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City