A Taste of Indochina

12 Days

Luang Prabang – Siem Reap – Ho Chi Minh City – Hue – Hanoi

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Embark on a culinary journey through Indochina, discovering the unique cuisines and time-honored kitchen traditions of Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Enjoy hands-on experiences in bustling street food stalls and upscale restaurants, guided by expert chefs and local food connoisseurs.

Trip Highlights

  • Delight in a romantic 7-course Lao dinner, illuminated by the glow of 500 candles.
  • Participate in a unique cooking and philanthropy initiative in Siem Reap, exclusive to Trails of Indochina.
  • Experience the vibrant street food scene of Saigon on a night tour aboard a vintage Vespa.
  • Discover Hanoi’s authentic street food with insights from a local food blogger.

Itinerary Summary

Days 1-2: Luang Prabang | Gilded Temples & Lao Street Food

Nestled at the convergence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in Laotian culture. Explore the town's stunning golden Wats, including the revered Wat Xieng Thong. Conclude your first day with a sunset cruise along the Mekong, followed by a visit to vibrant night markets filled with enticing food stalls. Savor a traditional Lao barbecue dinner at a local eatery, enjoying the authentic flavors of the region.  

Day 3: Luang Prabang | Buddhist Caves & Illuminating Dinner

Take a scenic river cruise to the Pak Ou Caves, where thousands of sacred Buddhist statues reside. On your return, visit Ban Muang Keo Village to witness traditional weaving and whisky distilling. The evening culminates in an exquisite dining experience at Belmond La Residence Phou Vao, featuring a romantic seven-course Lao menu prepared at your private table, accompanied by a traditional Lao music performance amidst the flicker of 500 candles.  

Day 4: Luang Prabang – Siem Reap | Khmer Food Delights

Arrive in Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Archaeological Park. As night falls, hop on a tuk-tuk for an exhilarating food tour, making stops at street corners and local markets to taste an array of Khmer street food, paired with refreshing Angkor beer. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you sample exotic fruits, grilled meats, and adventurous delicacies like fried insects.

Day 5: Siem Reap | Explore Angkor’s Temples & Pre-Circus Dinner

Explore the breathtaking temples of Angkor, including the iconic Ta Prohm, where nature intertwines with ancient architecture. Visit the grandeur of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the evening, enjoy a Khmer-style dinner at Madame Butterfly Restaurant, followed by an enchanting performance at the Phare Cambodian Circus, showcasing the rich tapestry of Khmer culture.  

Day 6: Siem Reap | Learning Khmer Cuisine & Cooking Class

Experience authentic Cambodian life with a guided mountain bike ride through the countryside. Visit a local market for a street food tasting session, then receive a spiritual blessing at a sacred pagoda. Engage with villagers at a traditional Khmer village, selecting fresh ingredients for your cooking class. Prepare a three-course lunch featuring beloved Cambodian dishes, and contribute a goodwill donation to the village chief.  

Day 7: Siem Reap – Ho Chi Minh City | Evening Foodie Tour on a Vintage Vespa

Arrive in bustling Ho Chi Minh City, where history and modernity intertwine. As night descends, take a thrilling tour on a vintage Vespa, exploring the city’s vibrant food scene. Sample a variety of local dishes at hidden eateries and cafes, including a renowned dessert shop known for Che, a sweet soup.  

Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City | Vietnamese Cooking Class

Start your day at Ben Thanh Market, selecting fresh ingredients for your cooking class held in a beautifully restored villa, once home to a U.S. Ambassador. Participate in a hands-on cooking demonstration focusing on Southern Vietnamese dishes, where vibrant flavors come together to create a distinctive culinary style.

Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City – Hue | Vegetarian Food Prepared by Buddhist Nuns

Travel to Hue, the ancient capital of Vietnam, renowned for its Buddhist heritage and royal history. Experience a serene vegetarian meal prepared by resident nuns at a tranquil pagoda, where most ingredients are sourced from the local community, offering a taste of authentic Buddhist cuisine.  

Day 10: Hue | Create Hue’s Traditional Cuisine with a Gastronomy Artisan

Immerse yourself in the culinary heritage of Hue with a celebrated gastronomy artisan. Visit the local market to select fresh produce before heading to her residence for an exclusive hands-on cooking class. Prepare and savor traditional Hue dishes, enjoying a convivial sit-down meal together.  

Days 11-12: Hue – Hanoi | Street Food Tour with a Food Blogger

Discover the vibrant street food scene of Hanoi with a renowned food blogger as your guide. Explore the historic Old Quarter, sampling local delicacies and engaging with the dynamic street culture. Visit Thanh Ha Market for a snapshot of daily life, and indulge in traditional Vietnamese coffee at a local café.  

Day 13: Departure

Transfer to Hanoi Airport for your onward flight, taking with you a treasure trove of culinary memories from your Indochina adventure.

For more information, email our friendly team at info@quietasia.com
tree
On each trip we will buy 1 tree to plant
By planting one tree on each journey, we aim to nurture nature and promote sustainability for future generations.