800-221-2216    

Join Scott Avera on this very special voyage through Vietnam and the magnificent ruins of Angkor. As our resident Asia expert, he’s brought to life his idea of the perfect trip to Southeast Asia… And we’re inviting you along for the ride!

With our leisurely pace and unhurried sightseeing, you’ll engage deeply in some of the most beautiful, friendly, and captivating places in the world. From city to countryside, down rivers and across beautiful Ha Long Bay, this trip features private events, handpicked restaurants, and specially planned excursions to show you the very best of Vietnam and Angkor.

Our Concierge Service

For special assistance, additional travel planning, or even help finding a travel mate,
Melanie is pleased to help. Call her anytime at 800-678-7942.

^back to the top

Scott Avera, our VP of Asia Services…

Scott’s a well-traveled guy… In addition to studying, living and working in Europe, he’s been to nearly every continent. And as our VP for Asia Operations, he travels regularly to China, Japan, India and Southeast Asia… ferreting out new places, checking up on hotels, and meeting with our overseas partners to plan new itineraries and ensure the quality of our operations.

He’s been designing our innovative Asia itineraries for years, and there’s really nobody better to travel with than our own Mr. Avera. Whether he’s by your side, leading the way, or looking for the stragglers (you know who you are!), his knowledge, experience, and intimate local contacts ensure a fabulous trip – carefree, enriching, fun and unforgettable!

^back to the top

It’s true. I’ve been to Asia numerous times, and I really do know the lay of the land… how to get around, what to see, and where to stay. But nearly all of my visits have been fast-paced trips filled with meetings and hotel inspections.

So when I was asked to plan and lead a leisurely tour, I knew exactly what to include… All the fantastic sites I’d whizzed through, the hidden corners my colleagues told me about (but I was too busy to see), and the personal discoveries that I longed to revisit. It’s all here in this special, one-of-a-kind itinerary. This is my “dream trip” to Asia, and I hope you’ll join me!

Scott Avera
Vice President, General Tours
Keene, NH

PS: Something I love about my job is being taken out to great restaurants by my local colleagues. Well, guess what? I’m going back to my favorite places and taking you with me!

^back to the top

Our Favorite Hotels * Handpicked Restaurants
* Specially Planned Sightseeing

• Led by Scott Avera, VP of Asia Operations, with professional English-speaking Tour Managers

• An unbeatable price and unmatched value! We include 29 meals, in-depth sightseeing throughout, a deluxe overnight Ha Long Bay cruise, specially arranged excursions, and all on-tour transportation

• We include 2 internal flights – to save you even more

• Experience two delightful Vietnamese traditions… Zipping through Hanoi on a Cyclo and the ancient rural art form of Water Puppetry

• A private gallery reception in Hanoi reveals the vibrancy of Vietnam’s emerging contemporary art scene

• Our innovative excursion into the northern countryside explores an ancient rural village, amazingly preserved and surrounded by emerald green rice paddies

• Our leisurely overnight cruise takes us to the farthest reaches of beautiful Ha Long Bay, aboard an elegant ship styled after the grand junk of a 19th century Emperor

• Visit the beautiful, century-old home of Mr. Phan Thuan An, a former professor, renowned historian, and descendent of Vietnam’s Imperial Court

• Join our included cooking class at a charming riverside restaurant… Or let us arrange a round of golf for you at the only Colin Montgomerie designed course in Vietnam

• Enjoy two full days of unhurried touring through the ruins of Angkor, a more leisurely experience and a chance to explore away from the crowds

• 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

From City to Countryside… And from River to Bay…
Special adventures every day!

Oct 12 – Arrive Hanoi, Vietnam

Upon arrival, we’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to the 5-star InterContinental Hanoi Westlake, set on extensive landscaped grounds in the heart of the city. After settling-in to our rooms with time to refresh, we’ll step out to explore the boulevards and byways of this charming city.

Hanoi has a completely unique feel and rhythm, described by many visitors as “timeless” or “old-fashioned.” Indeed, you’ll be mesmerized by scenes of everyday life everywhere you turn – bustling sidewalk cafes, pavement barbers, and bicycle-filled streets lined with elegant colonial French mansions. We dive right in this afternoon when we step aboard Cyclos – the traditional way to get around town. Your personal Cyclo driver will take you along shaded avenues and narrow lanes, passing grand ochre-hued Colonial buildings and tranquil lakes. We’ll ride past Hoan Kiem Lake and through the ’36 Streets’ of the Old Town.

In the evening we experience a 900-year-old art form, the traditional Vietnamese Water Puppet Show. Then we’re off to Wild Lotus Restaurant, a favorite of our Hanoi-based colleagues. Meals D

[Please note that today’s airport transfers are complimentary for air-inclusive passengers arriving with our group]

Oct 13 – Exploring Hanoi

Today’s carefully planned sightseeing explores across the centuries, from the country’s ancient past to the 21st century vitality of modern-day Hanoi. We begin at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a monumental edifice of marble, granite and exotic tropical woods. Just behind it is the simple house where he lived and worked, still filled with his personal belongings. Admire the graceful One Pillar Pagoda before continuing on to the Temple of Literature, founded in 1076.

We’ll stop for lunch at Wild Rice Restaurant and then visit the Hoa Lo Museum, infamously known as the Hanoi Hilton. Then our guide will lead us along the atmospheric streets of the Old Quarter, where local artists will invite us into their homes to see their works, many of them shaping the country’s dynamic avant garde art scene. We’ve made special arrangements with one of our favorite artists for a private gallery reception including wine, hors d’oeuvres, and chance to meet the artist. We return to our hotel for an evening at leisure. Meals B,L

Oct 14 – Out and About in the Countryside

Our leisurely journey into the scenic northern countryside takes us first to Thay Pagoda. Just 25 miles from the Hanoi, this Pagoda is especially popular with city residents during festival times, and its famed for its finely carved statues of Buddha, ornamented with lacquer and gold.

We continue through the peaceful landscapes to Duong Lum, a quiet village surrounded by ride paddies. This community is recognized for its remarkable preservation of old homes and temples. As we explore along the curving alleyways, we’ll pause to visit one of these ancient houses and then continue on into the surrounding paddy fields. We’ll enjoy lunch in this timeless setting before returning to Hanoi where the balance of the day is free to explore or relax as you wish. Meals B,L

Oct 15 – Hanoi / Ha Long Bay – Overnight Cruise aboard the Bhaya

Early risers can join our guide this morning for a brisk walk around Hoan Kiem Lake. The more energetic and adventurous might join local residents here in their early morning Tai Chi exercise. Following breakfast at the hotel, we’ll all travel together to Ha Long Bay. Our scenic drive is just a few hours, but the breathtaking scenery that greets us will feel worlds away from the city.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is a captivating region of three thousand limestone islands, forested peaks, hidden coves, secret caves, and emerald green waters that stretch forth as far as you can see. Traditional sailing junks and local fishing boats ply these waters and here we board our enchanting Bhaya cruise vessel, styled after the grand junks once reserved exclusively for the Emperor. We’ll board around Noon and have plenty of time to settle-in to our spacious outside cabins before enjoying a welcome drink as we set sail. After a buffet lunch, the afternoon is ours to enjoy. We’ll cruise through the magnificent scenery exploring along tranquil coves and past limestone caves to visit a selection of islands. As weather and sea conditions permit, we might swim, snorkel or kayak during the afternoon. Of course, there’s plenty of time to just relax onboard, enjoying the vistas, and socializing with our fellow passengers. Dinner is served onboard. Meals B,L,D

Oct 16 – Ha Long Bay / Hue

Early risers might practice their newly-learned Tai Chi skills as the sun rises across the magnificent panorama of the bay and its myriad islands. After a leisurely buffet breakfast, and time to enjoy the scenery, we step off ship mid-morning and return to Hanoi by private motorcoach for our flight to Central Vietnam. Upon arrival in Hue, we’ll be greeted and escorted by air-conditioned coach to La Residence Hotel & Spa, an enchanting boutique resort set on the banks of the Perfume River. Meals B,D

Oct 17 – Getting to Know Hue

Founded more than 300 years ago, Hue has been an important cultural, religious, and educational center for Vietnam. Heavily damaged during the Vietnam War, the preservation and restoration work over the past few decades has been impressive, and in 1993 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our exploration of the history and monuments of Hue will take us along the Perfume River, across its tranquil waters, and on a pleasant stroll along peaceful shaded pathways. Our morning visits include the tomb of Emperor Gia Long, founder of the Nguyen Dynasty, and also Tu Hieu Pagoda – surrounded by the lush tropical vegetation of the countryside.

After lunch, we tour the Imperial Citadel, an impressive complex of buildings, lakes, and tranquil gardens – all laid out in a series of concentric circles. We also visit the Forbidden Purple City, built in the 1800’s for the personal use of the Emperor and staffed exclusively by eunuchs who posed no threat to the Royal Concubines.

Our touring ends on a high note, with a specially arranged visit to the former home of Princess Ngoc Son. It’s been finely preserved, retaining much of its original century-old form, and is perhaps the finest traditional garden house in the region. We’ll meet the present owner Mr. Phan Thuan An, himself a direct descendent of the Imperial Court. A former history professor, Mr. An has written several books, including a respected review of Hue’s history and culture. After visiting Mr. An, we’ll journey by boat down the Perfume River, passing peaceful sampan villages on the way back to our hotel. Meals B,L

Oct 18 – Hue / Danang / Hoi An

This morning’s journey takes us across the scenic Hai Van Pass through Danang and past the Marble Mountains to the historic port city of Hoi An. We’ll check-in to our deluxe beachfront resort, The Victoria Hoi An, with time to freshen-up before lunch at the Morning Glory Restaurant - a terrific place discovered by Scott, your Tour Escort, on a previous trip to Vietnam.

Known as Faifo to early western traders, Hoi An was one of Asia’s major international ports during the 17th to 19th centuries, home to Japanese, Indian, Chinese and Portuguese merchants. Today, Hoi An is remarkable for its collection of original Chinese temples and glorious homes built by these wealthy merchants of earlier times. As we explore with our guide through the traffic-free cobblestone streets of this ancient seaport, it’s easy to imagine yourself a sailor of the 18th century, when Hoi An was one of the busiest ports in all of Asia. We’ll wander through the old town center to admire these old merchants’ homes, the art galleries that now draw visitors from all over the world, and the famous Japanese Covered Bridge. Our dinner reservations this evening are at the charming Brothers Café, located on the riverfront. Meals B,L,D

Oct 19 – Explore in and around Hoi An

This morning, you have the opportunity to customize our stay here to your own personal interests. For those with a taste for food and cuisine, we’ve arranged for a cooking class at the Red Bridge Cooking School & Restaurant. This included excursion begins with a pleasant boat ride along the Thu Bon River into the countryside outside of Hoi An. After a refreshing welcome drink at the pier, our chef will introduce us to the ingredients and methods of Vietnamese cuisine in general, and the regional Hoi An style in particular. A number of specialties will be prepared as we watch and learn. Then, we’ll retreat to the riverfront to dine al fresco, sampling the dishes our chef has prepared. Before returning to our resort, we’ll visit the peaceful village of Cam Thanh to experience the ordinary rhythms of daily life here… children returning from school, water buffalos being fed, and farmers returning to the fields after the midday heat has passed. We return to the Victoria Resort in mid-afternoon.

Instead of this planned excursion, you can spend the day relaxing on the white sand beach or taking advantage of our resort’s fine amenities, including the Victoria Spa, complimentary mountain bike rental, tennis court, swimming pool and fitness center. We can also make arrangements for those who wish to play a round of golf at the first Colin Montgomerie designed golf course in Vietnam. Meals B (lunch is included for guests participating in our Cooking Class excursion)

Oct 20 – Hoi An / My Son / Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

After an early breakfast, we depart Hoi An for a scenic one-hour journey to My Son. This astounding archaeological site was the religious capital of the Champa Kingdom, which flourished here from the 4th to 13th centuries. This unique Hindu-based culture left behind more than 70 religious monuments. But with the ravages of time and war, only 25 partial structures remain today. They are, nevertheless, spectacular and with UNESCO recognition as a World Heritage Site, extensive conservation efforts are underway to protect these fascinating jungle ruins.

Our afternoon flight from Danang Airport brings us to bustling Ho Chi Minh City, where we’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to the beautiful Majestic Hotel, a Colonial-era landmark in the heart of the city. Dinner this evening will be at one of our favorite restaurants in the city. Meals B,D

Oct 21 – Discovering Saigon and the Cu Chi Tunnels

This morning’s excursion brings us to the Cu Chi Tunnels, the incredible underground network that once stretched for 210 miles. This tunnel complex was built by guerilla fighters beginning in 1940 and construction continued throughout the Vietnam War. Marvel at secret trapdoors, underground kitchens, living quarters, and even conference rooms. We’ll have ample opportunity to view the excavated areas from above. The more adventurous among us can explore the deeper second and even third-level tunnels.

We return to Saigon for lunch and a fascinating afternoon of sightseeing, including Reunification Hall - formerly known as the Presidential Palace. It was towards this modern building that Communist tanks rolled on the morning of April 30, 1975, as Saigon fell. We’ll stop by the General Post Office, a picturesque Colonial-era landmark, City Hall, and Notre Dame Cathedral. Then we’ll enjoy a guided stroll along Le Cong Kieu Street, famous for the many shops and galleries selling “antiques” – both old and new! Our specially arranged dinner this evening explores the French heritage of the country. At Au Manoir de Khai, we step into a stunningly restored French Colonial home for an elegant dinner of fine French cuisine. Meals B,L,D

Oct 22 – Ho Chi Minh City / Siem Reap, Cambodia

We’ll be taken by air-conditioned motor coach to the airport for our flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, we’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to the deluxe Victoria Angkor Resort. Meals B

Oct 23 – Siem Reap: Explore Angkor

Today begins our guided exploration of the magnificent jungle ruins of Angkor, once the royal seat of the mighty and wealthy Khmer Empire. This morning, we explore imposing Angkor Wat, the largest temple in the world with a volume of stone equaling that of the Cheops Pyramid in Egypt. Inspired by 12th century Hinduism, it took an estimated 30 years to build Angkor Wat, including the intricately carved bas-relief which adorns all four sides of the temple.

Enjoy lunch at Viroth’s Restaurant and then discover the monumental magnificence of Angkor Thom – the last capital of the Khmers, with its Elephant Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King, and the stunning Bayon temple. This 12th century masterpiece lies at the very centre of Angkor Thom and is an archaeological wonder of symmetry and grandeur. Late in the day, our guide will lead you to a prime vantage point to witness the sun set over Angkor, a magnificent and unforgettable spectacle. We dine tonight at the Sugar Palm Restaurant. Meals B,L,D

Oct 24 – Siem Reap: Exploring farther afield in Angkor

This morning we visit the amazing Ta Prohm, a 12th century temple that has been left largely un-restored and in its natural state, surrounded by jungle with massive Banyan roots and limbs enveloping the stone like tentacles. We continue our exploration at Chau Say Tevoda, a Hindu Temple from the 12th century, and Preah Khan, an extensive complex built by a Khmer King as a monastery and teaching institution. An afternoon visit to Les Artisans d’Angkor reveals the important work being done to preserve the traditional skills of Cambodia’s artisans. This evening, we’ll delight in fine Asian cuisine accompanied by wine, conversation and the camaraderie of our traveling companions. Meals B,D

Oct 25 - Siem Reap Departure

We’ll be escorted to the airport for our departure flight.  Meals B

[Please note that airport transfers are complimentary for air-inclusive passengers departing with our group]

Our Concierge Service

For special assistance, additional travel planning, or even help finding a travel mate,
Melanie is pleased to help. Call her anytime at 800-678-7942.

^back to the top

InterContinental Hotel Westlake - Hanoi

With an enviable location overlooking the 800-year-old Golden Lotus Pagoda on Hanoi’s largest lake, this luxury hotel is the only one in Vietnam to be featured in Condé Nast Traveler’s prestigious 2008 Hot List, garnering a citation for its “sublime” waterfront locale!

Guestrooms reflect fine contemporary Vietnamese design, with cream walls and dark woods complemented by rich textures and vibrant colors. Guests enjoy in-room LCD televisions, Bose sound system, and spacious private balconies with beautiful views over Westlake. Guestrooms feature cable/satellite TV, direct dial telephone, coffee and tea maker, mini-bar, bathrobes and hair dryer. There is evening turndown service and complimentary morning paper delivered to your room.

Onsite, there is a fully-equipped fitness center, sauna, and outdoor pool. Dining options include the innovative Asian cuisine of Saigon, French-style brasserie fare at Café du Lac, and Milan, for tempting Italian dishes and pizza fresh from a wood-fired oven.

Bhaya Cruise – Ha Long Bay

Nearly a century ago, the Emperor Khai Dinh sailed the waters of Ha Long Bay aboard a wonderful wooden junk built by master craftsmen exclusively for his use. Today, we can explore this magnificent scenery in the same luxury and style as the Emperor. Our handsome vessel was recreated from the original designs of Khai Dinh’s ship, with impeccable styling fit for a King.

Our stylish outside cabins feature handcrafted hardwood furnishings and gleaming gold and white fittings. Each is graciously appointed with private ensuite bathroom, refrigerator, air-conditioning, and a large picture window for memorable views. Onboard, we’ll enjoy an inviting bar, sun deck, library, and an elegant dining room where skillfully prepared Vietnamese and International dishes are attentively served by waitresses in traditional dress.

La Residence - Hue

The beautiful Art Deco styling of this boutique hotel captures the grandeur and elegance of Colonial Indochina. Set on the banks of the Perfume River overlooking the Imperial Citadel, our enchanting home in Hue is a step back in time… but with all the comforts of a world-class, 21st century hotel.

Victoria Beach Resort & Spa – Hoi An

Our deluxe resort was ingeniously designed to capture the tranquility of a traditional fishing village with small streets, ponds, and clay-tiled houses. Just 3 miles from the ancient heart of Hoi An, we’ll enjoy a superb location on a private, white sand beach. Each spacious guestroom is beautifully furnished to reflect both traditional and contemporary Asian styling, with private balconies and a lounging area with sofa. Rooms are equipped with satellite TV, direct dial telephone, in-room deposit box, mini-bar, tea and coffee making, hairdryer, and individual climate control.

Onsite, guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi access, an inviting swimming pool, tennis court, game room, and fitness center. Dining options include Asian cuisine at L’Annam overlooking the sea, a variety of international snack meals at the Faifo Bar by the pool, and a light cocktail menu at the Cham Bar.

Majestic Hotel - Saigon

Overlooking the Saigon River in the heart of the city, this venerable 80-year-old, French Colonial landmark is within walking distance of the Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral, and bustling Ben Thanh Market.

Comfortable air-conditioned guestrooms feature in-room deposit box, min-bar, tea and coffee making, cable TV, direct dial telephone, and hair dryer. Dining and entertainment options include the historic Cyclo Café serving Vietnamese and International cuisine around the clock, the elegant Serenade Restaurant, and the rooftop M Bar, with superb views over the city and Saigon River.

Victoria Angkor Resort – Siem Reap

Our 5-star resort is perfectly situated in the heart of Siem Reap across from Royal Park and less than 4 miles from the World Heritage ruins of Angkor. Surrounded by lush tropical landscaping, the Victoria Angkor Resort offers Colonial-styled elegance, French joie de vivre, and world class amenities.

Spacious guest rooms feature private balconies, gleaming tropical hardwood floors, handsome furnishings and Asian-inspired fabrics. Each room is appointed with individual climate control, mini-bar, electronic safe, direct dial telephone, satellite TV, in-room coffee & tea making facilities, and hair dryer.

Onsite, guests can enjoy a landscaped saltwater swimming pool, Jacuzzi, library, free WiFi in public areas and the Victoria Spa. Superb dining options include Cambodian and international dishes enjoyed on the garden-view terrace of L’Escale, wonderful French cuisine served in Bistro de Siem Reap overlooking Royal Park, and casual Khmer-inspired al fresco dining among the traditional food stalls of Le Jardin d’Apsara.

^back to the top

^back to the top

>Deposit, Payment & Visa Information

Deposit
A deposit of $400 per person is due within 7 calendar days of booking.

Full Payment
Full payment is due by August 12, 2009

If The Traveler Cancels

• Up to 61 days before departure: $200 fee per person

• 60 to 31 days before departure: 10% of price plus airline cancellation penalties

• 30 to 15 days before departure: 25% of price plus airline cancellation penalties

• 14 to 8 days before departure: 50% of price plus airline cancellation penalties

• Within 7 days of departure: 100% of price

Contact for Deposits & Final Payments
General Tours World Traveler
53 Summer Street, Keene, New Hampshire 03431
Email: info@generaltours.com

Transfers
Airport transfers on October 12 and 25 are included for passengers who purchase their air from General Tours World Traveler and travel with the group on our designated flights. The transfers are available for separate purchase at $50 per person, each way.

International trans-Pacific air purchased from General Tours also includes the flight from Siem Reap to Bangkok and one night at the first class Novotel Airport Hotel in Bangkok prior to your return flight to the USA.

Passport & Visa
All US Citizens are required to have a United States passport valid for at least six months after their return to the USA. Visas are required for Vietnam and Cambodia.

Click here for complete terms & conditions

^back to the top