From Mekong to Thousand Islands Land: Vietnam to Indonesia

Savor the final moments of Hanoi's vibrant pulse at your leisure this morning. Midday, your private transfer awaits to whisk you away from the urban symphony toward the peaceful, emerald landscapes of Mai Chau. This scenic drive is a gradual descent into tranquility, trading city lights for towering limestone karsts and sweeping green valleys.

Optional Suggestion: Should you wish to stretch your legs and engage with the landscape sooner, your driver can facilitate a visit to Luoc village by car or bicycle, offering an authentic glimpse into local White Thai life before settling into the calm of Mai Chau.

Overnight in Mai Chau.

Wake up to the refreshing mountain air, enjoying the quiet morning on your own terms. Following a relaxing period, we continue the cinematic drive south toward the legendary province of Ninh Binh, often called the "Inland Halong Bay." The journey is a tapestry of picturesque rice paddies and water buffalo grazing peacefully.

Optional Suggestion: En route, consider pausing to explore the charm of Lac and Pom Cong villages, offering a final taste of Mai Chau's unique tribal culture and handcrafted goods before the dramatic geological formations of Ninh Binh claim your attention. After checking into your luxurious sanctuary, the evening is dedicated to pure relaxation. 

Accommodation: Emeralda Ninh Binh, or Nham Village, or Tam Coc Garden Resort

Today is a celebration of history and breathtaking natural beauty, with your private driver serving as your guide to freedom. Starting at 9:00 AM, immerse yourself in the ancient majesty of Hoa Lu Temple, the former capital of Vietnam, where the architecture itself tells tales of warrior emperors. The adventure continues with a spectacular boat trip to Trang An, gliding through deep caves and past towering limestone peaks that plunge into jade-colored waters—a truly spiritual experience. Conclude your day with a visit to the serene Bich Dong Pagoda, a collection of cave temples nestled into a cliffside, offering profound views and quiet contemplation.

Accommodation: Emeralda Ninh Binh, or Nham Village, or Tam Coc Garden Resort

Enjoy a final, quiet morning in Ninh Binh, perhaps reflecting on the serene landscapes, before your private transfer takes you to the airport in Hanoi. A quick domestic flight then carries you to the bustling, dynamic metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat airport, your driver awaits to deliver you swiftly to your chosen luxury hotel. The rest of the day is blissfully unstructured, allowing you to dive into the city's infectious energy or simply unwind.

Accommodation: La Siesta Premium Saigon, or Park Hyatt Saigon, or Fusion Original Saigon Centre

The riverine chapter of your journey begins with a rendezvous at the Saigon Renaissance Riverside Hotel. Here, the team from your bespoke travel planner ensures a smooth transition to the Mekong. After a warm welcome, bid farewell to the Saigon buzz as you travel south to My Tho to step aboard The Jahan, your magnificent, floating "home" for the next four days. Check into your luxurious cabin and feel the gentle thrum of the engine as the vessel begins its steady glide upstream. A delectable lunch buffet is served in the restaurant, accompanied by the ever-changing panorama of life on the Mekong Delta. As dusk descends, join your fellow travellers for a canapé reception and prosecco, officially marking the start of your voyage. Anchor near Cai Be, where the night brings late-night entertainment in the onboard cinema.

Accommodation: The Jahan Mekong River Cruise.

Embrace the stunning Mekong dawn with an optional, invigorating Tai Chi session on deck before indulging in a lavish breakfast. Today, a local boat takes you to the heart of the Delta: Tan Phong Island. The Default Excursion involves a fascinating visit to a workshop in Cai Be to witness the manual production of rice paper, rice wine, and coconut candies. On Tan Phong, a buggy ride guides you through local life, culminating in a tropical fruit tasting at a family orchard and a stop to watch skilled artisans weaving water hyacinth crafts by hand. Optional Activities include a Culinary (Jayavarman only) experience involving a cooking class with a local family, or a scenic Cycling (The Jahan only, extra cost) tour through orchards and to a local temple. In the afternoon, the vessel sails further, anchoring near Binh Thanh Island. A stroll through this peaceful community reveals the entire, traditional mat-making process and offers a chance for profound conversation with an elderly couple who have spent their lives on the island. After another full day of discovery, a presentation in the lounge about the local Mekong Delta life precedes a gourmet dinner as the ship sails toward Tan Chau. 

Accomodation: The Jahan Mekong Cruise.

Disembarking in the bustling town of Tan Chau, you are transported back in time aboard a traditional xeloi (Vietnamese rickshaw). Your personal driver gently navigates the streets, offering a window into local workshops, markets, and daily commerce. The adventure takes you to the vibrant local market, then to a unique Cao Dai temple, where a priest will illuminate the beliefs of this distinctive Vietnamese religion. Conclude the morning with a visit to a local family-run fish farm, gaining insightful knowledge into this essential regional enterprise. Optional Morning Activities include a Culinary (Jayavarman only) trip to the market and a hands-on cooking class for special dietary dishes at the Cao Dai temple kitchen, or an exciting Cycling (The Jahan only, extra cost) tour on a small island, exploring mango farms, a frog farm, and a mat-weaving workshop. Back on board, the ship sets sail toward the Cambodian border. The entire afternoon is devoted to relaxation as you enter the deep Cambodian countryside. Indulge in a massage, lounge on your private balcony, or join a Khmer gastronomy culinary workshop to sharpen your knowledge of local cuisine. The vessel docks in Phnom Penh in the evening, ready for the next phase of your boutique travel agency journey. 

Accomodation: The Jahan Mekong Cruise.

The Mekong journey concludes as you disembark in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital. Your driver will meet you for a brief but poignant city orientation tour, touching on the key landmarks that define this historical city. Following the tour, you are transferred to your luxury hotel where you can check in and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. The contrast between the river’s serenity and the capital’s vibrancy offers a powerful moment of reflection. 

Accommodation: Rosewood Phnom Penh, or Palace Gate Hotel & Resort by EHM.

After breakfast, the journey transitions from Indochina to the Indonesian Archipelago. Proceed to the airport for your flight to the mythical island of Bali. Upon arrival at Ngurah Rai Airport, transfer to the the hotel for a restful evening, preparing for the dramatic, untamed beauty of Flores that awaits. The rest of your time is free at your leisure.

Accommodation: Novotel Bali Ngurah Rai Airport, or Royal Santrian.

A short flight from Bali delivers you to the rugged, sun-drenched landscape of Labuan Bajo, the gateway to Komodo. Upon arrival at Komodo airport, you are greeted and transferred to your accommodation for check-in. The stage is now set for a deep dive into Indonesia's natural and cultural wonders. The rest of your time is free at your leisure.

Accomodation: Plataran Komodo, or Sudamala Resort.

Bid farewell to the coastal town as your adventure leads you inland. The drive is a continuous panorama of rolling hills, lush valleys, traditional villages, and tiered rice fields. The highlight of the day is a stop at Cancar, home to the mesmerizing Spiderweb Ricefields (sawah lodok), an agrarian masterpiece of communal land division unlike anything else in the world. You will check into the simple, authentic bungalow in Ruteng, offering a charming and genuine taste of local life. 

Accomodation: Spring Hill Hotel.

An exhilarating day of discovery awaits. After breakfast, you will journey to Liang Bua cave, the world-famous archaeological site where the remains of Homo Floresiensis—the 'Hobbit'—were excavated, offering a humbling connection to ancient human history. The cultural immersion deepens with a visit to the traditional village of Todo, where the conical-roofed, ancestral houses speak volumes of the local Manggarai customs. The day concludes with a refreshing stop at Cunca Plias Waterfall before checking into the Mbeliling Ecolodge, a truly immersive and simple accommodation nestled in the natural beauty of the mountain region. 

Accommodation: Mbeliling Mountain Ecolodge.

Your final morning on Flores is marked by adventure as you journey to the impressive Cunca Wulang Canyon. Here, amidst the towering walls and clear water, you have the opportunity for a refreshing swim. Driving back toward Labuan Bajo, a stop at the intriguing Mirror Cave (if time allows) offers one last terrestrial wonder. Upon arrival at the harbor, the ultimate aquatic luxury begins: the majestic Plataran Private Cruises Komodo. Stepping aboard this traditional phinisi yacht is the epitome of a luxury travel agency experience, setting sail into the stunning, protected waters of Komodo National Park. 

Accommodation: Plataran Private Cruises Komodo.

Wake up amidst the dramatic islands of Komodo National Park. This day is dedicated to sailing, snorkeling over pristine coral reefs teeming with marine life, exploring hidden beaches, and most importantly - trekking to witness the legendary Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. This exclusive experience, guided by your boutique travel agency choice, ensures an intimate and unforgettable connection with one of the planet's last remaining natural wonders, blending elegance with raw exploration.

Accommodation: Plataran Private Cruises Komodo.

The sea phase concludes as you disembark at the harbor. You are transferred to the airport (no guide for this short transfer) for your flight to the neighboring island of Lombok. Upon arrival, a seamless transfer awaits to whisk you away to the incomparable elegance and tranquility of The Oberoi Lombok, a world-class resort that promises sheer luxury and relaxation. 

Accommodation: The Oberoi Beach Resort.

Today, allow the gentle rhythm of Lombok to wash over you. Lounge by the azure pool, walk the pristine white-sand beaches, or indulge in the world-class amenities of your hotel facilities.

Accommodation: The Oberoi Beach Resort.

Another day deliberately free for pure, unscripted bliss. This is your time to reflect on the magnificent journey you've undertaken, savoring the peace and luxury provided by your bespoke travel planner. 

Accommodation: The Oberoi Beach Resort.

Enjoy a final, leisurely breakfast in your island paradise. At 10:00 AM, your driver will take you on a scenic transfer to Lombok airport for your flight back to Bali, making a stop en route to capture some final, breathtaking views of the island's beauty. Upon arrival at Bali airport, you will be transferred to your final hotel. The afternoon is yours until it is time for your private transfer to the airport for your departure flight, carrying with you a suitcase full of unforgettable memories from your Grand Odyssey.