TAILOR-MADE TOURS

Serenity & Spice: A Grand Southeast Asia Escape in 18 Days (Thailand, Vietnam, Bali)

From Bangkokto bali

Itinerary

Introduction

- Include: Internal flights, Accommodation, Transfers, Some meals, Tour guides, Sightseeing tickets
- Exclude: Arrival & departure flights
- The group tour is NOT the same group from the beginning till the end

Unwind, explore, and awaken your senses on this unforgettable 18-day journey through Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali — three enchanting destinations that blend serenity with spice, culture with nature, and tradition with indulgence. From the golden temples and lively markets of Bangkok to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, and the lush rice terraces and spiritual calm of Ubud, this grand escape offers a perfect harmony of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re savoring street food in Hanoi, cruising the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, or meditating in the heart of Bali, every moment invites you to experience the soul of Southeast Asia in all its vibrant beauty.

Day 1: WELCOME TO THAILAND – BANGKOK ARRIVAL
Day 1: WELCOME TO THAILAND – BANGKOK ARRIVAL - welcome-to-thailand-bangkok-arrival-ZIJldwYY.jpg
Day 1: WELCOME TO THAILAND – BANGKOK ARRIVAL - welcome-to-thailand-bangkok-arrival-WwmK39H5.jpg

Your Thailand trip begins with your arrival in Bangkok. Your private driver will meet you at the airport, holding a signboard with your name. He will escort you to your accommodation right in the heart of the city. You can easily explore the city at your own pace or relax at the hotel after the flight.

Overnight in Bangkok.

Day 2: HALF DAY COMBINED GRAND PALACE & TEMPLE CITY TOUR (B)
Day 2: HALF DAY COMBINED GRAND PALACE & TEMPLE CITY TOUR (B) - half-day-combined-grand-palace-temple-city-tour-b-97IgD76B.jpg
Day 2: HALF DAY COMBINED GRAND PALACE & TEMPLE CITY TOUR (B) - half-day-combined-grand-palace-temple-city-tour-b-BvAYjdqR.jpg

You will be met by our driver and guide who will transport you to your destination. The Grand Palace complex was established in 1782, and it consists of not only royal and throne halls but also a number of government offices as well as the renowned Temple of the Emerald Buddha. And then visit Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the adjoining Grand Palace, which together form the greatest spectacle for the visitor to Bangkok. Even though the whole compound is so full of tourists that you spend half the time trying to avoid getting in people's photos, it's still a pretty amazing place to visit. The Wat Pho, or “Temple of the Reclining Buddha” is one of Bangkok’s most attractive temples. It is a much-visited temple complex due to its location immediately South of the Grand Palace and the huge Reclining Buddha houses.

Overnight in Bangkok.

Day 3: FULL DAY AYUTTHAYA BANG PA-IN (B)
Day 3: FULL DAY AYUTTHAYA BANG PA-IN (B) - full-day-ayutthaya-bang-pa-in-b-pPUTT59w.jpg
Day 3: FULL DAY AYUTTHAYA BANG PA-IN (B) - full-day-ayutthaya-bang-pa-in-b-ujHgJLFF.jpg

Early morning, our tour guide will pick you up from your hotel by car or van (depend on number of customer) then heading to visit Summer palace in Bang-Pa-In. The famous Summer palace name Bang-Pa-In is a charming pavilion and palace complex by the Kings of Thailand as a summer residence during the hot season until the 20th century during the reign of Kings Rama V and Rama VI. Lunch at local restaurant.  After lunch our guide will take you to a Tuk Tuk Tour Discover the beautiful ruins of ancient temples in the historical park: Wat Phra Si Sanphet, one of the most photographed temples in Ayutthaya, then Wat Phra Mahathat, Wat Mongkhon Bophit and Wat Ratburana, they are all beautiful.

Then, we will stop at Wat Yai Chaimongkhol, one of the biggest couches Buddha images, as well as the ruins of the former Grand Royal Palace & temples. Back to Bangkok in the afternoon.

Overnight in Bangkok.

Day 4: BANGKOK FLY TO CHIANG MAI (B) - FLIGHT INCLUDED
Day 4: BANGKOK FLY TO CHIANG MAI (B) - FLIGHT INCLUDED - bangkok-fly-to-chiang-mai-b-flight-included-dp9pNY8t.jpg
Day 4: BANGKOK FLY TO CHIANG MAI (B) - FLIGHT INCLUDED - bangkok-fly-to-chiang-mai-b-flight-included-YiM1dpwI.jpg

Have breakfast at the hotel, have free leisure time until there is a private cab to transfer you to the airport, and be ready for the next flight to Chiang Mai then transfer to hotel.

Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Day 5: DAY TRIP TO BLACK HOUSE, WHITE TEMPLE AND BLUE TEMPLE (B/L) – GROUP TOUR
Day 5: DAY TRIP TO BLACK HOUSE, WHITE TEMPLE AND BLUE TEMPLE (B/L) – GROUP TOUR - day-trip-to-black-house-white-temple-and-blue-temple-bl-group-tour-eVc9Jk7T.jpg
Day 5: DAY TRIP TO BLACK HOUSE, WHITE TEMPLE AND BLUE TEMPLE (B/L) – GROUP TOUR - day-trip-to-black-house-white-temple-and-blue-temple-bl-group-tour-tFMtz3Xv.jpg

Wat Rong Khun, commonly referred to as the White Temple, is a contemporary unconventional Buddhist and Hindu temple in Chiang Rai, Thailand. It was designed by National Artist Mr. Chalermchai Kositpipat. 

Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suer Ten) This temple is above all its magnificent blue interior with a large white Buddha that marks the spirits. 

The Black House (Baan Si Dum): The House of National Artist - Dr. Thawan Duchanee

This is the residence of Dr. Thawan Duchanee who is a renowned Thai National Artist. It is also a museum. The area consists of many unique buildings. The main building is called "Baan Si Dum (The Black House)" which is at the entrance. The architecture of the buildings are very unique.

Itinerary

• 7:00am. Meet your tour guide at your Hotel or Guest House's lobby.

• Visit the Maekhachan Hot Spring.

• Visit the White Temple.

• Visit the Blue Temple.

• Lunch.

• Visit the Black House.

• Return to your Hotel by 5:00pm.

Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Day 6: DAY TRIP TO DOI INTHANON NATIONAL PARK (B/L) – GROUP TOUR
Day 6: DAY TRIP TO DOI INTHANON NATIONAL PARK (B/L) – GROUP TOUR - day-trip-to-doi-inthanon-national-park-bl-group-tour-KR046zf1.jpg
Day 6: DAY TRIP TO DOI INTHANON NATIONAL PARK (B/L) – GROUP TOUR - day-trip-to-doi-inthanon-national-park-bl-group-tour-ozEbyLkm.jpg

On this tour you can cool off on Thailand's highest peak while taking in the beautiful scenic Doi Inthanon National Park. Night time temperatures on the peak can be as low as -8 degrees centigrade.  In the cold/dry season night time frosts are common.  Day time temperatures can be surprisingly cold so do not forget a long sleeve jumper. On the way up we will visit Wachiritharn  Waterfalls, The King and Queen Chedi's, (the best views across the park are found here), and then on to the peak of Doi Inthanon the highest mountain in Thailand. Near the top we will take the Angkha nature walk where you can walk amongst the unique flora and forest that grow at this altitude. There are both Karen and Hmong villages in the bounds of Doi Inthanon and we will see those at the local market on the way down the mountain before making our way back to Chiang Mai.

Itinerary

• Pick up from Chiang Mai hotel around 8 - 8:30am.

• Visit Wachiratharn Waterfall.

• Visit the Chedi's of the King & Queen.

• Thai lunch (not too spicy).

• Visit the highest mountain.

• Nature Trail (about 15-20 minutes walking distance).

• Visit Karen and Mhong hill tribe village and local market.

• Return to your hotel in Chiang Mai at 5:00pm.

Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Day 7: CHIANG MAI LEISURE (B)
Day 7: CHIANG MAI LEISURE (B) - chiang-mai-leisure-b-AxtLanVc.jpg
Day 7: CHIANG MAI LEISURE (B) - chiang-mai-leisure-b-0cbzqtRH.jpg

Have a leisure day in Chiang Mai or take an optional tour.

OPTIONAL TOUR: HALF DAY ELEPHANT SANCTUARY WITH LUNCH (USD 85 PER PERSON)

Morning visit : 06:30-12:30

07:00 Drive approximately 1.5 hours South of Chiang Mai through rolling hills, forest, and local farming areas.

08:30 Arrive at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. Walk through and learn about the elephants, change into traditional Karen clothing and make medicine for the elephants.

09:00 Meet the elephants. Feed, give medicine, interact, and play with the elephants in a natural environment as you learn about their behavior and history. Take photos with the elephants.

09:45 Mud Spa with the elephants 10:30 Walk with the elephants to a river and bathe them.

11:30 Eat a traditional meal and then say goodbye to the elephants.

12:00 Leave the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and drive approximately 1.5 hours to Chiang Mai.

Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Day 8: CHIANG MAI - FLY TO HANOI (B) - FLIGHT INCLUDED
Day 8: CHIANG MAI - FLY TO HANOI (B) - FLIGHT INCLUDED - chiang-mai-fly-to-hanoi-b-flight-included-0SIYhBPe.jpg
Day 8: CHIANG MAI - FLY TO HANOI (B) - FLIGHT INCLUDED - chiang-mai-fly-to-hanoi-b-flight-included-wP9dbboY.jpg

Breakfast at Hotel.  Enjoy your free time until transfer to Chiang Mai International Airport for your flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival, our driver will meet you at Noi Bai International Airport and will transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure. 

Overnight in Hanoi.

Breakfast at Hotel.  Enjoy your free time until transfer to Chiang Mai International Airport for your flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival, our driver will meet you at Noi Bai International Airport and will transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure. 

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 9: EXPLORE THE BEAUTY OF NINH BINH (B/L) - GROUP TOUR
Day 9: EXPLORE THE BEAUTY OF NINH BINH (B/L) - GROUP TOUR - explore-the-beauty-of-ninh-binh-bl-group-tour-fbYexiQA.jpg
Day 9: EXPLORE THE BEAUTY OF NINH BINH (B/L) - GROUP TOUR - explore-the-beauty-of-ninh-binh-bl-group-tour-Ch7uT01C.jpg

Your journey begins  when our tour guide picks you up at your hotel in Hanoi. We set off towards Ninh Binh province, located about 120 km away. After a scenic drive, we take a short 20-minute break to relax before continuing our trip. The first destination is Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam. Here, you will learn about the historical significance of this city and why the capital was later moved to Hanoi. As you step into the beautifully preserved temples of King Dinh and King Le, built in the 17th century, you will be impressed by the outstanding architecture and can immerse yourself in the ancient atmosphere of Vietnam’s past.

After exploring Hoa Lu, we enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, featuring a variety of regional dishes such as goat meat and fried rice, with vegetarian options available. The journey continues with a peaceful 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride through Tam Coc, where you will be mesmerized by the breathtaking scenery of rice fields, rivers, clouds, sky, and a stunning cave system, often called “Halong Bay on land.”

Next, a 45-minute cycling trip around the village allows you to experience the daily life of local people up close. As the day winds down, we board the shuttle bus for our return to Hanoi, concluding our memorable Hoa Lu – Tam Coc day trip. You will be back at your hotel in Hanoi around 6:30 PM. 

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 10: HANOI – HALONG BAY BY SHUTTLE BUS (B/L/D)
Day 10: HANOI – HALONG BAY BY SHUTTLE BUS (B/L/D) - hanoi-halong-bay-by-shuttle-bus-bld-e4CalGTf.jpg
Day 10: HANOI – HALONG BAY BY SHUTTLE BUS (B/L/D) - hanoi-halong-bay-by-shuttle-bus-bld-fEjHjA8N.jpg

Halong Bay is a natural wonder of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and once you arrive, you’ll understand why. Get ready to be amazed by some of the world’s most breathtaking views and enjoy a relaxing time on the cruise, along with the exciting activities we’ve prepared for you.

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and depart from Hanoi for Halong Bay.

The cruise team will meet you in the hotel lobby between 8:00–9:00 AM (we will confirm the exact time the day before the tour).

Arrive at the jetty around noon and take a boat to the cruise. After a welcome onboard and check-in, lunch will be served as the cruise begins its journey through the hundreds of islets.

In the afternoon, enjoy activities such as swimming, kayaking, or visiting caves (depending on each boat’s itinerary), or simply spend time relaxing on board.

Toward the end of the day, the boat will anchor for the night in a beautiful spot — don’t miss the sunset before enjoying dinner.

Overnight on board

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Note:

In case of bad weather, the itinerary might be changed or canceled if the boats will be not allowed to leave the port. Your travel consultant will plan other arrangements for you in this case.

Day 11: HA LONG BAY BACK TO HANOI (B/BRUNCH)
Day 11: HA LONG BAY BACK TO HANOI (B/BRUNCH) - ha-long-bay-back-to-hanoi-bbrunch-RPggh6lJ.jpg
Day 11: HA LONG BAY BACK TO HANOI (B/BRUNCH) - ha-long-bay-back-to-hanoi-bbrunch-hImtAZJI.jpg

Rise early for a lesson in Tai Chi or just to enjoy a hearty breakfast. The boat will make its way back to the port stopping at the Limestone Cave, full of stalagmites and stalactites. From here, it’s clear sailing back to the main harbor and the return to Hanoi around 15:00. Free in your leisure time.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 12: HANOI FLY TO HO CHI MINH CITY (B) - FLIGHT INCLUDED
Day 12: HANOI FLY TO HO CHI MINH CITY (B) - FLIGHT INCLUDED - hanoi-fly-to-ho-chi-minh-city-b-flight-included-bldHuo3y.jpg
Day 12: HANOI FLY TO HO CHI MINH CITY (B) - FLIGHT INCLUDED - hanoi-fly-to-ho-chi-minh-city-b-flight-included-ebprmgw8.jpg

Have breakfast at the hotel, have some free leisure time until there will be a private cab to transfer you to the airport, and get ready for the next flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 13: DAY TRIP TO MEKONG DELTA (B/L) – GROUP TOUR
Day 13: DAY TRIP TO MEKONG DELTA (B/L) – GROUP TOUR - day-trip-to-mekong-delta-bl-group-tour-XgmgXNiD.jpg
Day 13: DAY TRIP TO MEKONG DELTA (B/L) – GROUP TOUR - day-trip-to-mekong-delta-bl-group-tour-CX6ejAAq.jpg

7:20 am Pick up from the hotel.

Kick start your day with a hearty breakfast and a trip to Mekong Delta follows, depart for My Tho, the town that lies on the left side of the Mekong River. Boarding the sampan and cruising down the river around the four beautiful islands known as Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise Islands.

Stop over at Unicorn Island, go walking around the country lane and see orchards, and enjoy tropical fruits, folk song music which performed by the local people. Visit the fruit plantation.

Riding a hand-rowed sampan through Thoi Son canal and treat yourself in the beauty of the countryside, visit the family business, visit a honey-bee farm, enjoy honey tea and coconut candy workshop.

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Break time.

In the afternoon, time for cycling around the Tan Thach village, meet the local villagers to experience the local daily life in the Mekong delta. Hammock relaxing and enjoy cool breeze for those can’t join the cycling trip. Return to Ho Chi Minh.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh.

Day 14: HO CHI MINH CITY – BALI (B) - FLIGHT INCLUDED
Day 14: HO CHI MINH CITY – BALI (B) - FLIGHT INCLUDED - ho-chi-minh-city-bali-b-flight-included-C2pL1MU2.jpg
Day 14: HO CHI MINH CITY – BALI (B) - FLIGHT INCLUDED - ho-chi-minh-city-bali-b-flight-included-tzNFGKK9.jpg

Breakfast at the hotel. Then, taking the flight to Bali.

Upon arrival at Denpasar International Airport, your staff will meet you and escort you to the hotel. Rest if the day is at your leisure. 

Overnight in Bali. 

Day 15: THE BEST OF UBUD WITH BARONG DANCE SHOW (B/L)
Day 15: THE BEST OF UBUD WITH BARONG DANCE SHOW (B/L) - the-best-of-ubud-with-barong-dance-show-bl-lcnOEwyZ.jpg
Day 15: THE BEST OF UBUD WITH BARONG DANCE SHOW (B/L) - the-best-of-ubud-with-barong-dance-show-bl-9pHTydnE.jpg

Pickup from your hotel, the first stop on your tour is at the Barong Dance. The Most popular Balinese cultural show. and then head on to your next stop, Batuan Temple. The Balinese Hindu temple is looked after by the local resident of the Batuan countryside.

Next stop at Coffee and Spices Plantation: Organic Spices and Luwak Coffee Tasting, before continuing your tour. Once you’re refreshed and recharged, you can take a short hike through the beautiful rice terraces of Tegallalang

you can end your tour with a visit to the Tanah Lot Temple, The most scenic temple to witness the most beautiful sunset in Bali!

Overnight in Bali.

Day 16: SUNSET DINNER CRUISE AND LIVE CABARET SHOW (B/D)
Day 16: SUNSET DINNER CRUISE AND LIVE CABARET SHOW (B/D) - sunset-dinner-cruise-and-live-cabaret-show-bd-cKOsMXQe.jpg
Day 16: SUNSET DINNER CRUISE AND LIVE CABARET SHOW (B/D) - sunset-dinner-cruise-and-live-cabaret-show-bd-vpwMdTcc.jpg

Breakfast at the Hotel, the day is at leisure for you to relax and may be indulge in a Balinese massage.   Later in the evening we take you out for a Sunset Dinner Cruise with a live dance show. which will nicely sum up this fantastic far eastern adventure.

Start with sipping onto a complimentary cocktail on the open air deck as the balmy evening breeze envelops you. The picture-perfect sunsets as seen in the guide books will be yours to enjoy as we begin the cruise. An international buffet dinner will be served followed by live music and a cabaret show to complete your experience. We transfer you back to the hotel. 

Overnight in Bali.

Day 17: BALI LEISURE (B)
Day 17: BALI LEISURE (B) - bali-leisure-b-IBrLQ6PM.jpg
Day 17: BALI LEISURE (B) - bali-leisure-b-vNwULpy7.jpg

Have a relaxing time at Bali beaches.

Overnight in Bali.

Day 18: BALI DEPARTURE (B)

Relish a healthy breakfast on the final day of your trip to Thailand, Vietnam and Bali. Complete the hotel check-out formalities, after which you can visit the local markets to buy souvenirs for your loved ones. Later your private driver will transfer you to the airport to take your flight back home.

Trip Ends.

What's Include

Accommodation

3-stars hotels:

•Bangkok: True Siam Rangnam or similar

•Chiang Mai: De Charm Chiang Mai or similar

•Hanoi: Chalcedony or similar

•Halong Bay: Le Journey Cruise or similar

•Ho Chi Minh: Acnos or similar

•Bali: Champlung Mas or similar

4-stars hotels:

•Bangkok: De Prime Rangnam or similar

•Chiang Mai: Empress Chiang Mai or similar

•Hanoi: Silk Path Luxury or similar

•Halong Bay: Milalux Cruise or similar

•Ho Chi Minh: Alagon D’Antique or similar

•Bali: Bintang Kuta or similar

5-stars hotels:

•Bangkok: The Sukosol Hotel or similar

•Chiang Mai: Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort or similar

•Hanoi: Apricot Hotel or similar

•Halong Bay: Doris Cruise or similar

•Ho Chi Minh: The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel or similar

•Bali: Arya Arkananta or similar

Check-in room at 14:00 // Check-out room at 12:00 noon (Except Early check-in or Late check-out mentioned in the program)

Flights

Bangkok/ Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai/ Hanoi, Hanoi/ Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City/ Bali with a 20 kg luggage allowance per person

Guide
  • Experienced English speaking guide
  • French/German/Spanish/Russian/Chinese speaking guides are available upon request. The surcharge will be applied
Meals

As per the tour program:

B=breakfast

L-Lunch

D-Dinner

This tour offers Jain, Vegetarian, Vegan, Halal and Kosher food options on request. Simply let Realistic Asia know the food option that you prefer.

Transport

- Door-to-door pick-up & drop-off services by private car

- Air-conditioned bus between Hanoi and Halong Bay (2-way)

- Air-conditioned bus or private cars for the excursions

Other included

– All sightseeing tickets according to the itinerary

– Tissues and water on coach

– Service charges and government tax

– 24/7 hotline support guaranteed

Insurance

Travel insurance is not covered in the tour price. You can organize travel insurance with your preferred insurance company. We recommend World Nomads, a company recommended by LonelyPlanet. You can check out the details here.

Other not included

X Arrival and Departure Flights

X Beverage, Personal expenses, tips, and gratuities

X Early check-in and late check-out (If not mentioned)

X Compulsory Gala Dinner on 24 Dec, 31 Dec and 21 Jan (Tet)

X Public holiday surcharge (Christmas and New Year, Tet holiday in Vietnam) if applicable

X Surcharge for airport cabs from 12:00 am – 05:00 am

X Visa to Vietnam, Bali, Thailand (can be applied online)

X Services not mentioned above

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