Vietnam and Thailand are two jewels of Southeast Asia, offering travelers an extraordinary blend of rich cultures, historical landmarks, tantalizing cuisine, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Combining these two dynamic destinations within a two-week journey provides an ideal balance of adventure and relaxation, making for an unforgettable vacation.
Suggested Itinerary Overview
Experience an incredible 2-week journey starting in Vietnam’s vibrant Hanoi, cruising stunning Halong Bay, relaxing in charming Hoi An, and exploring lively Ho Chi Minh City. Then, continue to Thailand’s bustling Bangkok, cultural Chiang Mai, and finish on the idyllic beaches of Phuket or Koh Samui, creating unforgettable memories of culture, cuisine, and adventure.
Days 1-7: Vietnam Highlights
Day 1-2: Hanoi Start your journey in Hanoi, Vietnam’s charming capital. Explore the bustling Old Quarter with its labyrinth of streets, colonial architecture, and lively markets. Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and the iconic Ngoc Son Temple. Discover Vietnam’s history at the Temple of Literature, the country’s first university, and pay respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Cap off your days in Hanoi by experiencing an evening street food tour, savoring authentic dishes like pho, bun cha, and egg coffee.
Day 3-4: Halong Bay Cruise Depart Hanoi for Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands. Enjoy an overnight stay aboard a luxury cruise, where you can participate in activities like kayaking, cave exploration, and visiting traditional floating villages. Watch spectacular sunsets and indulge in fresh seafood meals onboard.
Day 5-7: Hoi An Fly south to the picturesque town of Hoi An, famous for its well-preserved Ancient Town, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through charming streets lined with lanterns, visit historic buildings, temples, and traditional houses. Relax at the serene An Bang Beach and immerse yourself in local culture through a cooking class or a leisurely cycling tour in the countryside.
Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Next, travel to vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s bustling commercial hub. Visit key attractions including the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace. Explore the lively Ben Thanh Market for souvenirs, and sample street food specialties such as banh mi and fresh spring rolls. Spend your evening experiencing the city’s dynamic nightlife.
Days 9-14: Thailand Exploration
Day 9-11: Bangkok From Ho Chi Minh City, take a direct flight to Bangkok. Explore iconic landmarks such as the majestic Grand Palace, Wat Pho with its magnificent Reclining Buddha, and Wat Arun along the Chao Phraya River. Dive into local life at Chatuchak Weekend Market, indulge in street food adventures in Chinatown, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Thailand’s buzzing capital.
Day 12-13: Chiang Mai Fly north to Chiang Mai, a city steeped in history and culture. Visit stunning temples including Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. Engage in meaningful experiences like visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary or attending a traditional Thai cooking class. Stroll through the bustling Night Bazaar and enjoy cultural performances that showcase the rich heritage of northern Thailand.
Day 14: Phuket or Koh Samui Conclude your adventure with a relaxing beach stay at either Phuket or Koh Samui, two of Thailand’s most celebrated island destinations. Enjoy crystal-clear waters, sun-soaked beaches, exciting water sports, fresh local seafood, and lively nightlife.
Estimated Budget
Airfare: International and domestic flights typically range between $800-$1500 USD, depending on departure location.
Accommodation:
- 4-star hotels: $60-$120 USD per night.
- 5-star hotels: $150-$300 USD per night.
Meals and excursions: Approximately $20-$50 USD daily, depending on preferences and dining options.
Visa and Entry Requirements
Vietnam:
- Travelers can apply for an E-Visa or Visa on Arrival online.
- Required: Valid passport, recent passport-sized photo, completed application form, and visa fee payment.
- Processing time is typically 3-5 business days.
Thailand:
- Visa exemption available for travelers from Australia, the US, and Europe for stays up to 30 days.
- Passport validity required: Minimum six months from entry date.
Travel Tips and Recommendations
- Best Time to Visit: Ideal between November and April for pleasant weather in both countries.
- Packing Tips: Lightweight clothing, sun protection, comfortable shoes for exploring cities and temples, modest attire for religious sites.
- Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs by dressing modestly at temples, removing shoes when entering homes or sacred places, and greeting locals with a polite “wai” in Thailand.
Traveling between Vietnam and Thailand offers an enriching experience filled with diverse cultures, extraordinary sights, and unforgettable memories. Combining these two countries in a well-planned itinerary provides the perfect Southeast Asian getaway, promising adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion at every turn.
Ready to embark on a memorable 2-week journey through vibrant Vietnam and enchanting Thailand? Contact us today to request your personalized tour, ensuring you enjoy seamless arrangements and unforgettable experiences in these captivating destinations. Let us help you create your dream vacation!
TAILOR-MADE TOURS
