A.C.T.’s customized vacation combines two of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations! Experience history, culture, exciting shopping and fine hotels at a leisurely pace. First, fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia and for three days explore the “Lost City of Angkor,” once the capital of the ancient Khmer Empire, which ruled the country from the 9th to the 13th century. The city and its fascinating temples were slowly covered by jungle until they were lost to civilization. At the end of the 19th century, the jungle was cleared to reveal the “8th Wonder of the World”--the ancient Temples of Angkor Wat--today an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, spend a full week in Thailand, where the modern capital of Bangkok’s glass towers, golden temples, vibrant open-air bazaars, floating markets, and hip bars contrast with 400-year-old Ayuatthaya and Kanchanaburi on the River Kwai. First and Superior class hotels with 15 meals: 9 brunch-style breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners, intra-flight, comprehensive sightseeing—all this and more await. Land of Smiles, indeed! |
Day 1 & 2: Your exciting journey begins
as you fly tonight from Los Angeles aboard award-winning Singapore Airlines to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Cross the International Date Line and connect in Singapore before landing.
Day 3: SINGAPORE/SIEM REAP.
Welcome to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Be met by your national guide and transfer to your first class hotel located on the main road to Angkor. Later, following an orientation meeting conducted by your tour manager, enjoy a welcome dinner with fellow travelers. REGENCY ANGKOR HOTEL (or similar) D.
Day 4: ANGKOR WAT.
Today, you'll understand why the architectural masterpieces of Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat, are designated as the "Eighth Wonder of the World".
This sprawling city, built by Khmer Kings, was once home to more than one million people at the height of the empire. The highpoint is visiting the stunning Angkor Wat, a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. World-famous for its beauty and splendor, Angkor Wat has the longest continuous bas-relief in the world. Overnight in Siem Reap. B, L
Day 5: TONLE SAP LAKE BOAT EXCURSION.
Morning drive along rolling verdant hills of the farm lands, stopping for a ride on an ox-cart, still being used today by local farmers. Arrive at Tonle Sap Lake in the heart of Cambodia, with its rich and diverse ecosystem. Embark on a serene boat excursion to observe the local life unfolding and the floating fishing villages along the shoreline. Later, visit the National Museum’s multi-media exhibits depicting the Golden Era of the Khmer Kingdom. Overnight in Siem Reap. B, L
Day 6: BANGKOK.
Today, transfer to the airport and fly to Bangkok. Welcome to the capital of Siam (Thailand)! Upon arrival, transfer to your upscale hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. RAMADA PLAZA BY WYNDHAM (or similar). B
Day 7: BANGKOK CITY TOUR. A fascinating mix of ancient and modern is featured today during your tour of city sights and the temples of Bangkok. Drive through Chinatown and then on to the colorful Indian Market. Visit serene Wat Po, the oldest and largest temple in the city, with the astonishing giant Reclining Buddha, over 150 feet long and almost 40 feet high. Continue to Royal Avenue where most of the government offices are located as well as the King's Palace. B
Day 8: BANGKOK, LEISURE DAY.
Today is yours to explore Bangkok independently. Or, take A.C.T.’s optional tours to the elaborate 18th century Grand Palace (“King and I”) and/or enjoy a dinner cruise on the mighty Chao Phraya River. B
Day 9: KANCHANABURI, BRIDGE OVER THE RIVER KWAI.
Travel southwest this morning to the vibrant Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Then, continue to Kanchanaburi, with its stunning natural beauty and beautiful rivers. Walk over the famous bridge at the River Kwai. The bridge, several museums, and cemeteries included on the tour have respectfully preserved the history and memorialized the dead. Tonight, enjoy dinner at your hotel restaurant. MIDA RESORT KANCHANABURI (or similar) B, D
Day 10: KANCHANABURI, LEISURE DAY.
Explore Kanchanaburi independently, or take A.C.T.’S optional full day Hellfire Pass and Death Railway tour. Hellfire Pass derives its name from Allied POWs forced to work day and night in the jungle to complete the bridge and rail line using only simple tools; more than 12,000 soldiers and 80,000 Asian laborers perished during the construction. B
Day 11: AYUTTHAYA.
Depart today to Ayutthaya, once glorified as the largest city in Southeast Asia. Visit Ayutthaya Historical Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you will see the ruins and splendor of the former capital. After lunch, continue to the Chai Wattanaram Temple and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Siam before dinner. CLASSIC KAMEO AYUTTHAYA B,L,D
Day 12: DEPART THAILAND.
Transfer to the airport for your flight from Bangkok to LAX via Singapore, arriving the same day. B
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