Welcome to our Thailand Cambodia Vietnam tour guide, In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through some of the best destinations, attractions, and experiences that these three beautiful Southeast Asian countries have to offer. From the busy streets of Bangkok to the serene temples of Siem Reap and the stunning natural landscapes of Halong Bay, our guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your dream trip to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. No matter if you have been to this place before or this is your first time, our guide has something for you. So, let’s dive in and start exploring these amazing countries!
Planning Your Thailand Cambodia Vietnam Tour Itinerary
Planning a trip through Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam can feel overwhelming with so many amazing places to see and experience. Focus on figuring out your priorities and build your itinerary around that. Do you want adventure, culture, food or a mix of it all? Once you determine your interests, you can start mapping out an itinerary that covers 2-3 weeks in each country.
Determine Your Travel Style
Are you more interested in the backpacker scene or do you prefer comfortable hotels? Thailand and Vietnam offer options for both budget and luxury travel, while Cambodia is better suited to budget and mid-range travel. Choose transportation that suits your needs – bus, train or budget airlines can help you cover long distances.
Must-See Destinations
In Thailand, visit Bangkok’s glittering temples, the ancient city of Ayutthaya and tropical islands like Koh Samui or Koh Chang. Cambodia is home to the beautiful Angkor Wat temple complex, the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, and the peaceful Kampot. Vietnam highlights include historic Hanoi, scenic Halong Bay, imperial Hue and bustling Ho Chi Minh City. Try to visit at least 2 major highlights in each country.
Factor in Flexibility
While planning the basics of your trip in advance, also leave room
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for spontaneity. Some of the best travel experiences come from unscheduled adventures. Maybe you discover a new favorite dish or make friends with a local who shows you an insider’s perspective of their city. Embrace opportunities to get lost (figuratively!) and go with the flow. The rewards of traveling with an open and curious mindset are immeasurable.
With some advance planning balanced with flexibility, you’ll craft an amazing Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam tour perfectly suited to your interests. Exploring the vibrant cultures, natural scenery and delicious cuisines of Southeast Asia will create cherished lifelong memories.
Top Attractions and Activities in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam
Explore Cambodia’s Angkor Wat Temples
No trip to Cambodia is complete without visiting the ancient temple city of Angkor Wat. The UNESCO World Heritage site has beautiful ruins of several Khmer Empire capitals from the 9th century to the 15th. The most famous temple in this country is Angkor Wat itself, with its iconic spires and bas-reliefs depicting stories and battles. You could spend days exploring over 100 temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park. Make sure to catch the sunrise over Angkor Wat—it’s a sight you’ll never forget.
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Discover Bangkok’s Canals and Markets
Bangkok is a shopper’s paradise, from upscale malls to vibrant street markets. Visit the weekend Chatuchak Market, one of the world’s largest, to find everything from clothing and crafts to live animals. Or take a longtail boat tour of Bangkok’s canals to see another side of the city. Stop at a floating market like Damnoen Saduak and buy fresh tropical fruit, snacks, and souvenirs right from the boat vendors.
Cruise Halong Bay in Vietnam
One of the most beautiful places in Southeast Asia is Halong Bay in northeastern Vietnam. It has almost 2,000 limestone islands sticking out of the clear water. The best way to experience its beauty is on an overnight cruise. You’ll sail past dramatic cliffs and arches, explore caves, go kayaking or swimming, and dine on fresh seafood. Many cruises stop at secluded beaches for swimming, hiking and beach activities. As night falls, gaze at the sunset and stargaze while listening to the gentle lapping of the waves.
There’s no shortage of attractions to experience on a tour of Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. In between the must-sees, don’t forget to simply soak in the vibrant culture. Try the delicious food, hear the exotic sounds, and fully immerse yourself in this enchanting region of the world. The memories you make will stay with you for life.
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Getting Around: Transportation Tips for Your Thailand Cambodia Vietnam Tour
Getting around in Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam is relatively easy thanks to modern infrastructure and transportation options. However, it helps to go in prepared with some tips to make navigating between cities and countries seamless.
Bus
Traveling by bus is a popular way to get around within each country and also between Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. Bus services offer comfort and convenience at an affordable price. Look for bus companies that offer direct routes between major cities and destinations on your itinerary. These buses typically depart from central bus terminals in each city. If you want to travel during busy times or holidays, buy your tickets ahead of time.
Train
For a more scenic journey, consider traveling portions of your tour by train. Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam all have rail systems connecting many tourist destinations. Sleeper trains with private cabins are available on some routes for overnight travel. Train travel is a bit slower but often more comfortable than bus. Rail passes or point-to-point tickets can be purchased at train stations.
Boat
With so many rivers, canals and coastline in Southeast Asia, traveling by boat is a great way to get around. You can take ferries between islands in southern Vietnam and Thailand, cruise the Mekong River from Thailand into Laos and Cambodia, or charter private boats to explore hidden waterways. Boat travel offers unique views you just can’t get any other way.
Air
For covering longer distances or bypassing overland routes, flying is the fastest option. Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam have modern airports in all major cities and tourism hubs. Regional airlines like AirAsia, VietJet and Bangkok Airways offer cheap fares, especially if booking in advance. If you fly, you can spend more time exploring your destinations and less time getting there. Consider budget airlines for quick hops between cities and countries.
With various transportation options available, you can customize your Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam tour to your own pace and preferences. Mixing up transport modes will give you a range of experiences to enjoy along your journey.
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Where to Stay: Accommodation Recommendations
Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam offer a range of accommodation options to suit any budget. As you make your way through each country, consider these recommendations for where to rest your head each night.
Thailand
In Thailand, Bangkok is a must-visit hub with hotels for all price points. For an upscale stay with amazing views, book a room at the Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa. Budget-friendly choices include the Ever Green Place and the Salil Hotel Sukhumvit Soi Thonglor.
Outside Bangkok, beach destinations like Krabi and Phuket offer resorts right along the Andaman Sea. The Rayavadee in Krabi and the Katathani Phuket Beach Resort are luxurious options with private villas and pools. For a more rustic stay, check out the beach bungalows at Chillhouse Beach Resort or the treehouses at Keemala Resort.
Cambodia
In Siem Reap, the base town for exploring Angkor Wat, stay in the heart of it all at the Shinta Mani Shack or the Madame Butterfly Hotel. For a quieter retreat, the Navutu Dreams Resort & Wellness Retreat is an eco-friendly oasis just 15 minutes from town.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, offers classic luxury at the InterContinental Phnom Penh or modern style at the Plantation Urban Resort and Spa. The hipster Padma Hotel blends mid-century design with Cambodian touches.
Vietnam
Historical Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage site with boutique hotels on the riverfront promenade like the Hoi An Silk Marina Resort & Spa and the Hoi An Ancient House Village Resort & Spa.
In Hanoi, stay near Hoan Kiem Lake at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, a colonial landmark, or the contemporary Melia Hanoi. For a local feel, try the Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa, with each room styled after a traditional tube house.
No matter where your journey leads you, finding the right place to call home for a few nights will help you recharge to take on all the adventure ahead. Sweet dreams!
Thailand Cambodia Vietnam Tour FAQs: Common Questions About Traveling Through Southeast Asia
Do I need a visa for Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam?
Most nationalities can enter Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam for tourist purposes without a visa. Thailand offers visa-free entry for up to 30 days. Cambodia offers visa on arrival for up to 30 days. Vietnam allows most nationalities to enter without a visa for up to 15 days. However, it is best to check with the embassy website for your specific nationality. These visas can be extended within each country if needed.
Is Southeast Asia safe for tourists?
Southeast Asia is usually a safe place for tourists to visit as long as they are careful. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can happen, so be vigilant about your belongings. Some tips:
- Register with your embassy when you arrive.
- Dress conservatively and avoid displaying valuables.
- Be wary of unsolicited help from strangers. Politely decline and walk away.
- Only take taxis and tuk-tuks from designated areas like taxi stands. Negotiate the fare before riding.
- Don’t buy drugs as penalties can be severe.
- Check travel advisories and warnings on government websites.
By taking normal travel safety precautions, you can thoroughly enjoy your trip through Southeast Asia. The vast majority of visitors experience no issues.
What currency should I bring?
Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam all have their own currencies – Thai Baht, Cambodian Riel and Vietnamese Dong. US Dollars are also widely accepted, though change may be given in the local currency. I would recommend bringing a combination of US Dollars and the local currencies. ATMs are available in cities and towns, but may charge high withdrawal fees. Have some small bills on hand for markets, taxis and tips.
When exchanging money, compare rates as airport exchanges usually have the worst rates. You’ll get the best rates in town at dedicated exchange bureaus. Only exchange what you need for your trip to avoid leftover currency.
Double check if credit/debit cards are accepted, though they may incur additional fees. Let your bank know about your trip so that your cards do not get frozen.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it – a whirlwind tour through three amazing Southeast Asian countries. From the bright lights and energy of Bangkok, to the serene temples of Angkor Wat, to the bustling streets of Hanoi, you’ve gotten a taste of this diverse and fascinating region. Sure, there’s much more to see – we barely scratched the surface here. But hopefully this quick guide has inspired you to explore further on your own Southeast Asian adventure. The friendly locals, mouthwatering cuisine, stunning scenery and intriguing history should be reason enough to book those tickets. Just don’t forget to pack light, leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs, and get ready for the journey of a lifetime. Southeast Asia awaits!
You might also want to read:
Angkor Wat: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
The Ultimate Kampot Travel Guide: What to see and do
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