The South Asia Trio

The program will be adapted so that this day falls on a Saturday. This morning, we head to the small floating market of Tha Kha, rich in colors and scents. A real immersion in Thai local life.

Then, excursion to a local palm sugar industry.

Visit to the temple Wat Bang Khae Noi located near the city. You will appreciate its architecture, for which the building was entirely constructed in teak wood. Its walls are entirely sculpted and represent episodes from the previous lives of Buddha.

In early afternoon, we visit the gardens of King Rama II's residence, where we find superb teak wood buildings (tropical tree).

Continuation with the visit of the Wat Bang Kung (Kai Bang Kung), commonly called the Banyan Tree Temple, since its chapel was covered by the roots and branches of a banyan tree. In its gardens, we can notably observe life-size representations of wrestlers, commemorating the Battle of Ayutthaya between Thailand and Burma at the end of the 13th century.

Tonight, we head to the docks to taste the local flavors of the Floating Market, which takes place on weekend evenings. Along the canals, many locals have come to dine. Like them, we order our small dishes directly from each boat: stir-fried noodle dish, some shrimp or squid skewers, or why not pre-cut mangoes.

As night falls, a boat trip on the canal. Our boatman picks us up from the docks, and we set off on a mini-excursion hunting for fireflies that light up the waters.

We start with a small stop at the Mae Klong railway market, where 4 times a day, the fruit and vegetable stalls quickly fold away as the train passes through the market.

Next, we set off to discover life in the mangroves. By boat, we explore this fragile ecosystem. During our excursion, we discover the lifestyle of fishermen (here, cockle fishing is done from a surfboard) and visit a shellfish farm.

Accompanied by our English-speaking guide, we head to the docks and board a public river boat. Along the water, we travel upstream towards the historic center, on the right bank, to the flower market of Pak Khlong Talat. Pak Khlong Talat is Thailand's largest flower market. Once a floating market, it is now famous for its mountains of orchids, jasmine and roses. Flowers arrive here from all over the country, often in the dead of night, making it one of Bangkok's most bustling places before dawn. Stroll through the fragrant aisles and immerse yourself in authentic and traditional Asia.

You set off to discover Bangkok's architectural gems. Marvel at the splendor of the Grand Palace of Bangkok, built in 1782: a sumptuous complex of buildings and inner courtyards, including the Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). You discover the famous Emerald Buddha, a precious statue dating from the 14th century, at the heart of one of the most venerated sanctuaries in the country.

Then, on foot, you reach Wat Pho, one of Bangkok's oldest temples, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and elegant pavilions. You discover the impressive Reclining Buddha, an emblematic figure of the place, as well as the inner courtyards dotted with stupas and refined decorative details.

Next, you cross the river by small boat to reach Wat Arun, the famous "Temple of Dawn", standing on the right bank. Upon arrival, you admire its spectacular central prang, finely decorated with porcelain mosaics and floral motifs that shimmer in the light.

Cruise aboard a private traditional "long-tail" boat-taxi on the Chao Praya river, one of the country's most important waterways and the lifeblood of Bangkok. As you travel along the water, you discover the "Venice of the Orient", with peaceful klongs, stilt houses and small temples hidden along the riverbanks.

Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide

Upon our arrival in Ubon Ratchathani, we visit Tung Sri Muang, a wooden temple built on stilts. There is also the possibility to visit the remarkable Wat Phra That Nong Bua temple, with its unique architecture.

Before reaching Khong Chiam, our destination for the day, we will stop in Phibun Mangsahan, a small town in Isan renowned for its traditional craftsmanship. This break will allow us to discover an authentic facet of local life and skills passed down from generation to generation.

This part of the country holds natural beauties. We take the time to discover them today. Located on the banks of the Mekong, we set off to explore the Pha Taem National Park. Along the way, we stop at the Sao Chaliang site to observe its mushroom-shaped rock formations.

Then, further on, we take a walk along the cliffs, which offer us beautiful views of the Mekong below. We continue beyond the trail to then discover rock paintings that are 3000 years old.

If the season allows (November to May only), we will visit the extraordinary site of Sam Phan Bok, notably called the "3000 holes".

In Champassak, we will see beautiful colonial architecture residences, often left abandoned.

For your lunch we recommend the Champasak With Love restaurant, on the banks of the Mekong. A simple setting, with a superb view, and delicious Laotian specialty dishes.

It will then be time to explore the jewel of southern Laos: the Vat Phou temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2001. Its style is pre-Angkorian. After discovering the site, you can visit its museum.

After breakfast, you will depart for an exploration of the Xe Pian park for a half-day excursion.

Upon reaching the edges of the Bolovens Plateau, we enter the protected natural reserve of Xe Pian (2400km²) considered by the WWF as the third richest ecoregion in Southeast Asia in terms of biodiversity.

Consisting of a set of wetlands classified as RAMSAR, forest plains and varied terrain, this space is the ideal shelter for certain animal species and even more so for bird fauna. Beyond this natural aspect, climbing to the top of Phou Assa offers a stunning view over these wetlands and provides an opportunity to discover the remains of a still mysterious civilization that has not yet revealed all its secrets. A half-day of easy walking in the area will allow you to become familiar with this unique tropical environment.

Departure will be at 08:30 and will conclude at 11:30.

After your breakfast, we embark on a motorized pirogue that will take us among the "4000 islands" of the Mekong.

Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes of navigation will be necessary before reaching the islands of Done Det and Done Khone, peaceful lands with a very marked French colonial past featuring its buildings, a bridge connecting the 2 islands as well as its railway that allowed goods to be transshipped across the cataracts.

We can, by bike, set out to discover the Lippi Falls, locally called Tad Sompamit (very easy level, flat route) while taking in the peaceful rhythm of the island. An ideal and calm way to observe, capture and immerse yourself in local and rural life. Lunch at the Sengaloune resort restaurant

This afternoon, we set out to observe the Irrawaddy dolphins (however, we cannot guarantee that we will see dolphins that day. They are wild animals).

Then we cross back over the Mekong to the village of Nakasang to meet our van which will take us back to Done Khong for the second night.

On the way, we visit a rubber tree plantation and the Chup factory near Kampong Cham. Discovery of natural rubber manufacturing methods.

Note: the factory visit depends on harvests; activity slows down from January to May. We continue towards Nokor Bachey temple in Kampong Cham. Blending recent constructions and remnants of a temple from the Angkorian era, the complex showcases original hybrid architecture.

The hills of Phnom Bros and Phnom Srei are located in Kampong Cham. Separated by about one kilometer of distance, the two highest points offer magnificent views of the countryside and the Mekong. We can visit modern temples on these hills and take the opportunity to relax pleasantly. Two historically significant places not to be missed.

Today, let's set off in a tuk-tuk in a vibrant capital city on the rise.

Starting from the Independence Monument, we stroll along Riverside, along the banks of the Chaktomuk River to Wat Phnom. This hill, similar to a mound, houses a pagoda and is known as Wat Phnom Daun Penh, the pagoda of Grandmother Penh's hill.

It was here that Madame Penh is said to have built a sanctuary in 1373 to protect four very rare bronze Buddha statues. The name of the Cambodian capital was subsequently inspired by this.

Then let's head to the National Museum which houses one of the world's largest collections of Khmer art composed of more than 14,000 pieces, of which approximately 2,000 are on display to the public.

We will finish this tour not far from here, at the Royal Palace of Cambodia, the extraordinary residence of King Norodom Sihamoni.

Continuation at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21), the largest detention and torture center under the Pol Pot regime and the Khmer Rouge which will reveal a very painful chapter in Cambodia's history.

Then, visit of the Central Market and/or the Russian Market if time permits.

About ten kilometers from Kampong Chhnang, we observe the craftsmanship of potter artisans. The traditional village has been renowned for centuries for the quality of its clay pots sold throughout the country.

The tools have certainly modernized but the craftsmanship and techniques passed down from generation to generation remain. Stone cutters, marble workers and cabinet makers are plentiful in the provincial capital of Pursat.

Visit the workshops to admire their talents and stop in the shops to acquire some beautiful souvenirs.

Today, early departure at 8am, for a superb outing combining hiking, boat tour and cycling. This comprehensive guided tour allows us to immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Nat Market, discover the colonial architecture of Battambang, sail on the Sangker River to visit a Buddhist monastery and ride your bike for a complete tour of the city's historic center. The history of the region, Cambodian culture, Battambang's contemporary art scene and urban planning will have no more secrets for us!

Late afternoon, introduction to Khmer cuisine with our host Ketmony who will share all his secrets for preparing delicious local dishes and bringing the best of Cambodia home with us.

On the way, 15 km west of Siem Reap, a visit to the silk center in Pouk allows us to discover the complete silk production process: from mulberry tree plantations to silk worm breeding, through to weaving and finished products available for sale.

We board a private boat to discover and visit floating villages. Note: during the dry season, the excursion may be replaced by another visit depending on the water level

From 9am onwards, a full day visiting the wonderful temples of Angkor located around and within the walls of Angkor Thom by tuk-tuk.

We discover in particular Angkor Wat, symbol of the apogee of the Khmer Empire during the Angkorian era.

Within the walls of Angkor Thom, let's discover Bayon and its numerous towers with gigantic faces, Baphuon and its gigantic statue of a reclining Buddha measuring 40m, Phimeanakas, the Terrace of the Elephants and its great diversity of sculptures as well as the Terrace of the Leper King. Let's continue with Ta Prohm famous for its immense trees with tentacular aerial roots. Then, let's finish with Pre Rup to admire the sunset from the heights of the temple.

Note: The temples are sacred places, avoid short clothing, you must cover your shoulders and wear long pants or a long skirt.

In order to preserve these fragile monuments, it is forbidden to touch the sculptures or to sit on temple elements.

In Cambodian culture, it is offensive to behave rowdily inside a sacred place, calm and respect are the watchwords. It is not recommended to buy items or sweets from child vendors, this only encourages begging and truancy, prefer a donation to an association if you wish. If you wish to photograph the monks (called Bonzes), you must obtain their permission beforehand. Furthermore, you must absolutely not touch them, they have the right to touch you but not the other way around.