January 7–19, 2027
Journey to Thich Nhat Hanh’s
Root Monastery
Pilgrimage to Vietnam
12 nights 13 days from US$7,850
Activity Level: LIGHT
Service Level: DELUXE
Group Size: Max 30
Take a Transformative Journey
Through Vietnam
- Explore the vibrant cultural centers of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, as well as the imperial city of Hue, where we will visit the root temple of Ven. Thich Nhat Hanh.
- Immerse yourself in history and culture with the help of your world-class guide(s) with expert knowledge about the living tradition of Buddhism, peace activism, and how Buddhism shapes local life.
- Enjoy opportunities to meditate and contemplate the beautiful and sacred places you’ll explore, with plenty of time for quiet reflection. Be part of a traveling sangha, or community, with opportunities to practice and learn together.
- Visit local homes, meet local people, teachers and monastics, and experience Vietnamese life—traditional and contemporary, bustling and serene.
- Have the option to visit Angkor in Cambodia- home to one of Southeast Asia’s most important archeological sites including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple, and many other temples and archeological sites.
- Have the option to visit the UNESCO world heritage city of Luang Prabang in Laos — a spiritual heartland nestled between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. This serene town blends gilded Buddhist temples, French colonial charm, and centuries-old monastic traditions, creating a living sanctuary of devotion and tranquility. We meet monks and participate in Laos’s strong living Theravada heritage.
Your Journey Leader
Dharmacharya Shantum Seth, an ordained dharma teacher in the Zen Buddhist lineage of Thich Nhat Hanh, is a world expert on sites associated with the Buddha and has been leading pilgrimages with his tour company Eleven Directions since 1988. He has co-authored books such as Walking with the Buddha, and has been a consultant for films such as BBC Discovery’s Life of the Buddha and BBC-PBS’s The Story of India, as well as advising the World Bank and the Indian Ministry of Tourism. Learn more at Eleven Directions.
*An alternate Eleven Direction’s guide may be used for groups of 7 or less participants.
“With each step and breath, the Buddha comes alive. Shantum’s knowledge, insight, and humor brings joy to those journeying with him in the footsteps of the Buddha.”
Thich Nhat Hanh, Vietnamese Zen Master, Plum Village, France
Itinerary
DAY 1 | Hanoi
Begin your journey midday with a tour of Hanoi, a vibrant city rich with French colonial influence and lush, shaded boulevards. Here, we will visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which offers insights into the 54 ethnic groups of the country, the Old Quarter’s 36 streets filled with everything from noodles to Buddha statues and stop to meet members of Thich Nhat Hahn’s local community.
DAY 2 | Hanoi/ Hoa Lu/ Trang An
We will embark on a day trip stopping at the ruins of the ancient capital Hoa Lu of the Dinh and Le dynasties, then continue onto Trang An, a UNESCO heritage site known for its reputation as “Halong Bay on land .” We will board a small boat and meander along the river, passing below limestone-cragged hills jutting skyward from the lush rice patties below. We’ll end the day with an evening Water Puppetry show unique to Northern Vietnam. This 800-year-old artistic tradition encapsulates the local lifestyle and myth through enacted sketches.
DAY 3 | Hanoi / Halong Bay Cruise
We will depart on an overnight luxury cruise to see the majestic Halong Bay set below the mythical limestone islands. We will explore the most spectacular caves and drift along the emerald waters and quiet islands. Filled with cultural experiences aboard the ship in the evening, we will find a peaceful harbor to set anchor for the night.
DAY 4 | Halong Bay
Starting early, we will visit our last stop on the water, Titov Island and hike to its breathtaking bay view. After returning to shore late morning, we will venture to the sacred Yen Tu Mountain home of King Tran Nhan Tong, a monk and founder of a school of Zen.
DAY 5 | Hanoi-Hue
We will fly from Hanoi to the historic Imperial City of Hue, the home city of Ven. Thich Nhat Hanh. After arrival we will embark on the Mu Pagoda River cruise and enjoy the incredible natural beauty, listening to folk music performances on the Perfume River.
DAY 6 | Hue
We will visit the nunnery part of Tu Hieu Monastery, where Thich Nhat Hanh entered as a novice at 16 and became ordained as a Dharma teacher, followed by a visit to the Peaceful Bamboo Family, a community for individuals with special needs. They are a living example of engaged Buddhism and have implemented a community-level ‘Happiness’ curriculum.
DAY 7 | Hue
We will begin the day with meditation at Bao Quoc Temple where Thich Nhat Hahn studied, followed by a visit to a kindergarten that is run and was created by monastics in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hahn. We will explore Hue’s ancient citadel and discover the Chinese dynasty’s artistry throughout the Imperial City, modeled after the Forbidden City in Beijing and the paper flower making village.
DAY 8 | Hue | Hoi An
We will spend our morning in Hue and visit the cemetery where Thich Nhat Hahn was buried. Departing midday, we will drive along one of the most scenic coastal stretches of road in Vietnam as we make our way to the UNESCO heritage city Hội An. We will tour this well-preserved ancient town with its beautiful beaches, ports, and Vietnamese and colonial architecture.
DAY 9 | Hoi An | Mỹ Son / Hoi An
Venturing on a day trip, we will visit Mỹ Sơn, a cluster of abandoned Hindu temples. Built by the kings of Champa, these enchanting ruins rise from the lush jungle mountainscape.
DAY 10 | Hoi An | Danang | Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
We will fly to stay in the ‘high-octane’ city of commerce and culture, Ho Chi Minh City. After arriving, we will embark on a city tour, visiting the Central Post Office, strolling along Dong Khoi St. toward the Saigon River, and stopping at the Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of the most atmospheric temples in the city.
DAY 11 | Ho Chi Minh City
We will embark on an excursion to Cu Chi Tunnels, the infamous underground city for Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War, to Ho Chi Minh City’s Cho Lon, the world’s most extensive China Town, and to the Vietnam War Museum for a powerful insight into the war’s impact and the perspective of the Vietnamese people, highlighting their struggles, sacrifices, and achievements during the conflict. We will visit An Quang Temple, where Thich Nhat Hahn spent years studying and teaching, and meet local Buddhist scholars.
DAY 12 | Ho Chi Minh City/ Visit to Mekong Delta
We will set sail on the Mekong River, also known as the “River of Buddhism,” whose headwaters begin in Tibet. Immersing ourselves in the rhythm of life on the water, we will visit the floating markets, an integral part of life along the river. As we cruise through the maze of canals, we will see artisans at work and locals buying, selling and trading their products.
DAY 13 | Ho Chi Minh City | Siem Reap
We will close the Vietnam leg of the journey with a morning ceremony and farewells. For those who choose to continue onwards, we will fly to Siem Reap in Cambodia to explore the ruins of the Angkor Complex.
–Optional ExtensionS–
CAMBODIA: Heaven On Earth
DAY 13 | Siem Reap (continued)
After arriving at Siem Reap, Cambodia, we will transfer to our hotel and rest briefly before continuing to the stunning village on stilts, Kompong Phluk, in the afternoon.
DAY 14 | Siem Reap – Angkor Temples
We will enjoy a magical day touring the UNESCO heritage site of the Angkor Complex. We will visit numerous temples, including the famous Ta Prohm Temple, followed by an exploration of the ancient city of Angkor Thom with its numerous terraces and stone faces. We will end our day with a sunset view at the Twin Temple of East Mebon.
DAY 15 | Siem Reap – Angkor
We will enjoy another magical day touring the UNESCO heritage site of the Angkor Complex. We will visit numerous temples, including the famous Ta Prohm Temple, followed by an exploration of the ancient city of Angkor Thom with its numerous terraces and stone faces.
DAY 16 | Siem Reap (Departure)
The journey will end after our morning meditation and closing circle. We will then have an optional transfer to the airport and say farewell.
LAOS: Gentle Paradise
DAY 16 | Luang Prabang – Laos (continued)
We will arrive in Luang Prabang in Laos. As the evening falls, we will make our way to the bustling night market where street vendors sell handmade crafts and street food.
DAY 17 | Luang Prabang – Mekong River
We will begin our day with an alms giving ceremony followed by a visit to the morning market and the Royal Palace Museum. Afterward, we will depart on a cruise of the Mekong River visiting the Pak Ou Caves with over 4000 Buddhas inside.
DAY 18 | Luang Prabang – Laos
In the early morning, we will make our way to visit the Elephant Village Sanctuary, the Kuangsi Water falls and the Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Center for weaving workshops. Our tour ends at one the most significant monasteries in Laos at Wat Xieng Thong.
DAY 19 | Departure
We will begin our last day with an optional alms giving ceremony, followed by a visit to the 18th century Buddhist temple Wat Sensoukharam, known for its striking architecture and colored tiles. This will conclude our tour, and we will depart at noon.
From sacred temples to breathtaking landscapes, your journey through Vietnam awaits. Secure your spot now.
Details & Pricing
The total price includes guide services, transportation, meals, site entrance fees, bottled water, and lodging arrangements for the duration of the journeys.
• The total cost for the Vietnam: Journey to Thich Nhat Hanh’s Root Monastery pilgrimage (January 7- January 19, 2027) is US $7,850, based on double occupancy. The single room supplement is an additional US $2,350*.
• Optional Extra: The Cambodia Heaven on Earth extension (January 19- January 22, 2027) costs US $1,850 with a single room supplement of US $690*.
• Optional Extra: The Laos Gentle Paradise extension (January 22- January 25, 2027) costs US $1,950 with a single room supplement of US $710*.
* Please note that if we are unable to room solo travellers with someone of the same gender, participants will be liable to pay 50% of the single room supplement. Due to the number of tourists visiting these sites in peak season, it may be difficult for hotels to provide a single room. In some very exceptional circumstances, even twin rooms may be unavailable. We ask for your understanding should this circumstance arise.
What’s Included:
- Airport transfers and transportation services in Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City/Siem Reap/Luang Prabang
- Guide services
- Domestic transportation inside Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos
- Site entrance fees
- All meals and bottled water
- Lodging arrangements for the duration of the journey
- Cruise overnight stay
- Regular meditation sessions, teachings and group sharings with Dharma teacher Shantum Seth
What’s Not Included:
- International airfare between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap for those on the Cambodia extension
- International airfare between Siem Reap and Luang Prabang for those on the Laos extension
- Visas and other international arrangements
- Costs for any extra days spent in Vietnam or Cambodia or Laos beyond the dates of the journeys
- Any additional activities not included in the itinerary
- Excess baggage fees on flights
- Medical or other insurance coverage, including travel insurance
- Phone calls during the journey
- Laundry
- Spending money
- Tips/ gratuities
To register, a non-refundable deposit of US $500 per person is required to reserve your booking. The remaining balance of the pilgrimage is due by November 1, 2026. All registration fees are payable in US dollars or the equivalent in other currencies.
What to Expect
We invite you to join Dharmacharya Shantum Seth on a journey through Vietnam, the home country of Thich Nhat Hanh. This pilgrimage offers an unparalleled immersive experience, with a full itinerary featuring site visits, teachings, lectures, and leisure time.
On this journey, you will soak in the culture that has continuously developed and maintained the Buddha Dharma for nearly two thousand years, visit the root temple of Thich Nhat Hanh, speak about peace activism, meet some of Vietnam’s most skilled teachers and monastics, and experience engaged Buddhism in society.
You will explore the multifaceted aspects of the Vietnam/American War through visits to museums and meetings with individuals. You will gain a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in history through the first-hand perspectives of people who were involved and affected.
You will steep in the shaded boulevards of Parisian-influenced Hanoi and embrace the awe floating below the towering limestone islands of Halong Bay. You will experience rich Buddhist culture, from ancient UNESCO temples to the humming modernity in Ho Chi Minh City.
This journey is a profound opportunity to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture, experience Buddhism daily, and soak in the country’s wondrous beauty, all while paying homage to Thich Nhat Hanh.
The Cambodia and Laos extensions will carry the same spirit of practice. From Angkor Wat to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang, you will experience extraordinary and inspiring sites.
What truly brings this journey together, however, is the way we weave the teachings of mindfulness and Buddhism throughout the experience—creating an inner journey that unfolds within these remarkable outer landscapes.
Reflections from Journeys with Shantum Seth
“Pilgrimage with Shantum is an extraordinary and inspiring experience! These voyages are the best and most blessed way to encounter Buddhist Asia.”—
Jack Kornfield, Founder of Spirit Rock Centre
“Shantum’s ability to coordinate scheduling, living accommodations, and transportation was impressive. His skill and knowledge as a guide are unsurpassed. He made the journey highly meaningful for me and my fellow travelers, all from the States. His passion for the history and teachings of the Buddha made the experience a life-changing one.”
— Katharine Bertolet, participant
“Shantum’s love of buddhadharma and in-depth historical understanding was a constant source of enrichment. For me, the value of an ‘outer’ pilgrimage is the ability to nourish the ‘inner’ pilgrimage – traveling with Shantum did just that.”
— Larry Rosenberg, Author and guiding teacherCambridge Insight Meditation Center, USA
“What was important to me was to be guided by someone with intimate knowledge of and sensitivity to the dharma, the sacred sites, the land and its people. Shantum Seth manifested this rare combination. For me, the pilgrimage was very rich and fulfilling. I will savor it for years.”
—Eloise Ross-Jones., participant
“As a friend of Buddhist sanghas and communities, I was so happy that Shantum did not require me to be Buddhist to join. The nature of the journey is deeply spiritual, and everything that Shantum offers from Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings was eagerly received and nourished my soul. Shantum is a Master Teacher, Wise Counselor, and a beautiful dear friend. Participating in his traveling sangha will most likely lead to numerous life-altering experiences. As Mike Dooley often says, “Thoughts become things. Choose the good ones.” After four journeys with Shantum and his wonderful staff and, most recently, with his family, he’s one of the best.”
— Aura Wright, participant
Step into one of the world’s most vibrant Buddhist cultures. Join us in Vietnam for a pilgrimage through sacred sites and timeless wisdom.
About Shantum Seth and Eleven Directions
Shantum Seth is one of the world’s foremost teachers and guides to the sites associated with the Buddha. He is an ordained Buddhist teacher (Dharmacharya) in the Zen tradition of the Vietnamese master, Thich Nhat Hanh. He teaches in India and other countries and has been leading his acclaimed pilgrimage In the Footsteps of the Buddha since 1988. In the last few years he has been leading interfaith, educational, cultural, and spiritual journeys to diverse regions of India. He has been deeply involved with social and ecological development issues for over 40 years.
He has contributed to a number of books including Walking with the Buddha, I Have Arrived, I Am Home, and Volunteers Against Conflict. He has also been a consultant on films including Life of the Buddha, made by the BBC/Discovery and Michael Wood’s The Story of India, by BBC/PBS. He and his work have been featured in many magazines and newspapers including National Geographic, Qantas, The New York Times, Newsweek, Times of India, Outlook, India Today, and Hindustan Times.
Seth has been a consultant to the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation to help promote Buddhist tourism in India. He has been on the Government of India’s expert committee for the promotion of Buddhist teaching and learning, has trained guides for the Government of India and UNESCO, is on the Indian executive of the interfaith group Temple of Understanding, and has addressed a number of forums and universities including the Chicago Council of Global Affairs, the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) and the UNDP executive board, among others. He has also given a TEDx talk.
He is an accredited guide with the government of India, though he sees himself not merely as a guide but as a friend. He opens up his home, helps connect interesting people from all strata of society, and develops lasting friendships. A great cultural interpreter, he enjoys sharing the subtleties of India’s religions, society, economy and politics, especially with thinkers from around the world—anyone interested in understanding the mind of India and their own mind. He lives with the mission of making the world a better place and helping people awaken to their fuller potential by exposing people to different ways of living and thinking, thereby expanding consciousness and building cross-cultural understanding.
Begin your own unforgettable journey—reserve your place today.
About Lion’s Roar
Pilgrimage has been an important aspect of Buddhist practice since the time of the Buddha himself. In the Mahaparinirvana Sutra, the Buddha said:
Ananda, there are four places the sight of which should arouse a sense of urgency in the faithful. Which are they? “Here the Tathagata was born” is the first. “Here the Tathagata attained supreme enlightenment” is the second. “Here the Tathagata set in motion the wheel of the dharma” is the third. “Here the Tathagata attained parinirvana without remainder” is the fourth.
Lion’s Roar is delighted to offer this opportunity to explore the historical context of Buddhism and gain a deeper feeling for the Buddha himself, with the expert guidance of dharma teacher and writer, Dharmacharya Shantum Seth. With more than 35 years of experience, Shantum Seth is one of the world’s leading experts on the life of the Buddha and the places where he lived, taught, and attained enlightenment. In the Footsteps of the Buddha is a once-in-a-lifetime journey of discovery, meditation, and friendship that will bring you to the very core of what it is to be Buddhist.
Lion’s Roar presents this pilgrimage in affiliation with Eleven Directions and Dharmacharya Shantum Seth. Lion’s Roar receives a commission for pilgrimage bookings which helps support our charitable mission and activities.
FAQ’s
What is the accommodation like?
The accommodation provided is in comfortable and well-located high-end hotels. This journey includes one overnight stay on a deluxe cruise boat. Prices are based on shared, twin-bedded rooms with a private bath or shower and toilet. If you prefer a single room (where available), there is a price supplement. Solo travelers who wish to room with another participant will be accommodated where possible. However, in the event that a solo traveler must room alone, they will be liable to pay 50% of the single supplement. Please note that in some rare cases, hotels are not able to provide single or even twin rooms owing to the sheer volume of tourists. In these cases, we ask for your understanding.
Food & Water
We stay in clean, safe places, and the food in the places we visit will be hygienically prepared, fresh, and cooked to suit a delicate digestive system. We will provide you with bottled water for drinking along the journey.
Health Concerns
We carry a first aid kit with us, but many people prefer to bring their own medicine supply as you may not be able to purchase the same range of medications you are used to. If you take any prescription medications, we recommend you bring them in the original labeled packaging.
Please let us know at the time of registration if you have any special dietary restrictions or medical needs.
What cultural considerations should I know?
For Western travelers visiting Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, it’s important to consider the unique cultural considerations of these Southeast Asian countries. The Vietnam/American War significantly impacted the cultures of all three countries. The war led to widespread destruction and displacement in Vietnam, and traditional cultural practices and values were often suppressed. The aftermath of the war has led to a renewed appreciation for Vietnam’s cultural heritage and a desire to preserve it. While Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos have all taken great leaps forward in recent years, it will serve travelers well to be mindful and sensitive to the lasting effects when discussing the topic.
While English is spoken in tourist areas, it is not widely spoken throughout Southeast Asia. Transportation systems are developing and generally good, but they typically do not meet the same standards as in North America and Europe. We recommend travelers expect the unexpected! Rest assured, we will take every measure to ensure a smooth experience—your travel is by comfortable coach and your experienced guides will bridge any language gaps.
Vietnamese, Cambodian and Laotian people are friendly and welcoming; visitors will likely encounter warm hospitality and genuine kindness. People tend to be respectful, friendly and family oriented. Packing your good sense of humor, flexibility, patience, and sense of adventure will stand you in good stead.
What is the cancellation policy?
For cancellations received up to eight weeks prior to the commencement of the tour, only the deposit will be forfeited. There is no refund for cancellations made within eight weeks of the beginning of the journey, 100% of the total cost will be forfeited.
What travel insurance will I need?
Participants are required to carry medical insurance. The range of coverage can vary significantly from policy to policy, and travelers are encouraged to speak with a travel agency to identify a policy that suits their needs. Things to consider are travel delays, trip cancellation or interruption, medical coverage, and baggage loss or delay. Before purchasing insurance, you may wish to check with your health insurance carrier to see if your policy includes medical care overseas. Please note that many insurance carriers require that insurance be purchased at the time a deposit or final payment is made; check with your carrier for details.
What happens upon arrival?
The journey will begin at 12 noon in Hanoi on January 7, 2027, with a complimentary airport transfer upon arrival.
For those coming only for the Cambodia Heaven on Earth-Angkor extension, arrival is at Siem Reap, Cambodia airport at midday on January 19th. For those coming only for the Laos Gentle Paradise extension, arrival is at midday on January 22nd. Participants are responsible for making all of their own international flight arrangements.
What happens upon departure?
Vietnam’s ‘Journey to Thich Nhat Hanh’s Root Monastery’ journey ends on the morning of January 19th, 2027, in Ho Chi Minh City.
Participants are responsible for booking all international flights which include booking from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap for those taking the optional Heaven on Earth extension to Cambodia.
The Cambodia Heaven on Earth Angkor extension ends on the morning of January 22nd, 2027, in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Participants are responsible for booking all international flights which include booking from Siem Reap to Luang Prabang for those taking the optional Laos extension.
The Laos Gentle Paradise extension ends on the morning of January 25th, 2027 in Luang Prabang, Laos.
We are happy to assist with the flight bookings. If you have any questions, feel free to check with us before you confirm your flight bookings. For international flights, tickets should be booked as early as possible.
We will arrange complimentary airport transfers for your departures on the last day of your journey.
Can I book extra nights?
For those wishing for an extra day or two to recover from air travel before the journey begins, or who wish to stay longer after the journey ends, we would be happy to book on your behalf.
What travel documents are required?
Passports should be valid for six months from the date of entry into Vietnam. You will need visas for Vietnam- Journey to Thich Nhat Hanh’s Root Monastery trip, Cambodia -Heaven on Earth extension and Laos Gentle Paradise extension. We recommend you make a photocopy of your passport and keep it somewhere separate, or scan it and keep it in an accessible email account in case of loss or theft.
Vietnam Visa: Visitors must have a visa before entering Vietnam, and a visa on arrival can only be obtained with a letter of approval. A visa on arrival is granted to many nationalities for stays of 15 days or less.
Otherwise, you must apply online for an e-visa or at the embassy for all 30-90 day single or multiple entry visas. We are happy to help if you have any questions. Please visit here: https://evisa.gov.vn/ to learn more about e-visas in Vietnam.
Cambodia e-Visa: The Kingdom of Cambodia enables citizens from most countries, who hold a passport that is valid for at least six (6) months, to apply for a visa online. Applicants must apply online at least four (4) days before travelling to the Kingdom of Cambodia. An e-Visa Cambodia once issued is valid for three (3) months from the date of issue. Please visit here: https://www.evisa.gov.kh/ to learn more about e-visas in Cambodia.
Laos Visa: Arriving in Laos, ensure you have your passport, visa, and any necessary documents ready for inspection. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, so it’s crucial to check before you travel. Click here to learn more: https://immigration.gov.la/en/home
Once you have obtained your visa, please send us the details.
Will I need to bring money?
Hotels, food, transportation and guide services are all included by the tour fees. We suggest that travelers carry cash for expenses like gifts or souvenirs. Travelers will also need money if they plan to extend their stay before or after the journey. Credit cards such as VISA or American Express are widely accepted in hotels and large shops and there are ATMs in most locations where you can access cash.
We suggest bringing $ 500 USD in small denomination cash as it is widely accepted in Vietnam and Cambodia. One US dollar ≈ VND$23,585 as of March, 2023. There is no need to exchange money in your country and it is best to do so in Vietnam.
How does tipping work?
Travelers often have questions about tipping. We have developed a system where we collect a kitty at the beginning of the journey, and the tips are distributed from it (contributing is optional). This contribution covers all the incidental tipping/donations during the pilgrimage at hotels/restaurants etc. Thus far, this has worked well. It usually works out to $10 to $15 per person per day. We recommend setting aside approximately $200 per person for tips.
If you arrive before the start of the journey or stay after it concludes, it is good to bring extra small denomination cash.
Do I need a plug adaptor?
Vietnam uses 220 volts, 50 cycles AC. Plugs/sockets can be an issue (the electrical sockets have round holes and different frequencies than in USA and Canada, not flat ones, so please ensure that your plug has rounded stems). It’s best to travel with a universal plug adapter.
What should I pack?
Given that there can be variation between the daytime and evening temperatures (the general range is from 20 – 30°C/68 – 85°F), light layering is a practical approach. We recommend bringing one jacket and a light sweater for in the hills and in the evening; perhaps a shawl if you want to meditate in the morning.
For the warmer part of the day, cotton shirts, T-shirts, and trousers work well. An umbrella or a parasol is recommended for light rain and sharp sunshine. Modest dress is advisable, with legs and arms covered especially when visiting religious sites. Please bring comfortable sneakers or sandals (which you can wear with socks if it gets cold). There is no need to bring formal clothing.
We also visit temples where you will need to remove your shoes, so it is helpful to bring a pair of socks (the airline slip-ons are very convenient). Having a hat or cap to protect you from the sun is always useful. The free baggage allowance is 20 kilos (44 lbs.) of check-in baggage. Your cabin baggage limit is 5kgs, so we recommend that you travel light. Laundry facilities are available everywhere we stay, and laundry is usually returned within 24 hours.
Will I need vaccinations?
There are no medical restrictions upon your entry into Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.
Can I use my mobile in Vietnam?
Another option for phone connection, if you do not wish to purchase a SIM card, is to utilize WhatsApp. In this case, all you will need to do is add the app to your device and your contacts, and you will be able to call and text when connected to Wifi. All of the hotels we visit will have reliable WIFI connections.
Are there any age restrictions?
Under-18s must be accompanied by an adult.