Experience the best of Cambodia and Thailand with this meticulously crafted tour, seamlessly blending cultural exploration with beach relaxation. From the architectural marvels of Phnom Penh to the awe-inspiring temples of Siem Reap, immerse yourself in Cambodia’s rich heritage. Then, unwind amidst the pristine beaches of Phuket, surrounded by turquoise waters and lush landscapes. With a perfect balance of cultural discovery and beach leisure, this itinerary promises an unforgettable journey through Southeast Asia.
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Welcome to Cambodia! Arrival in the morning, transfer to check in at selected hotel In the afternoon enjoy Khmer Architecture Tours (3 hours) Discover Phnom Penh’s rich architectural heritage by exploring landmarks designed by Vann Molyvann, Cambodia’s most prominent architect. After independence in 1953, a far-reaching cultural and social vision for Cambodia was reflected in the new architecture of the time; uniquely this focused on integrating an international modern style with local tradition, materials and climate. Discover the iconic works of ‘New Khmer Architecture’ heralded throughout Southeast Asia in the 1960s. The tour visits Molyvann’s 100 Houses (social housing program), the University Campus of the Royal University of Phnom Penh, and the National Sports Complex (Olympic Stadium). The tour is by tuk tuk with small waking distances in-between. The specialist guides are all Cambodian architects or students of architecture; all tours are conducted in English. Overnight in Phnom Penh.
Today you will explore Cambodia’s fast growing capital. Visit the Royal Palace, built by King Norodom in 1866 on the site of the old town, and the Silver Pagoda. Located within the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda is so named because of its floor, which is made up of 5,000 silver tiles. The treasures found inside include a solid gold Buddha encrusted and weighing 90 kilograms and a small 17th century emerald and baccarat crystal Buddha. In the afternoon overland transfer to Siem Reap (without guide). Overnight in Siem Reap.
In the morning you start your Angkor tour to the royal pool of Srah Srang and afterwards continue to the famous jungle temple Ta Prohm (11km).Take your time to walk through the temple from the West entrance to the East entrance to meet again with your driver (walk ca. 1.5 km). From the Northwest of Ta Prohm you walk (ca. 15 minutes) through the forest to the barely visited temple of Ta Nei. There is a reasonable chance of having this beautiful Angkor temple to yourself to explore. Afterwards you visit the Ta Keo temple, known as the “mountain with bronze peaks”, to admire its five-tiered pyramid structure. Continue to the Victory Gate of Angkor Thom. You have the choice of either walking along the path along the 8m high laterite city wall (500m) to the Death Gate or continuing by road. En route to the Terrace of the Leper King, you can stop briefly to see an imposing statue found in the Bayon which is now displayed at Vihear Prampeilveng. Begin at the atmospheric Preah Palilay and walk (ca. 500 m) through the shaded parkland behind the terraces, pass Phimeanakas with its beautiful lakes, and the impressing Baphuone to finally reach Jayavarman’s state temple of Bayon at the centre of the city. Explore this important temple with its many captivating giant stone faces. Your guide will point out the most interesting of the detailed bas reliefs illustrating everyday life in the Angkorian era. Enjoy sunset drinks with a leisurely boat ride on the moat of Angkor Thom and view hidden elements of the ancient Khmer water systems, while relaxing with a cool drink accompanied by the sound of birds.
Don’t forget to set your alarm, as today you start at pre-dawn to witness the breathtaking view of the sunrise over the magnificent Angkor Wat temple. Continue to explore the central complex and bas-reliefs of Angkor Wat [AD1113], and the rest of the temple in the early morning. Continue to visit the Preah Khan temple and the Neak Pean temple on the Grand Circuit. DINE WITH THE LOCAL IN THE AFTERNOON Ms. Vannarith and her family live in a small Khmer house, surrounded by trees in Siem Reap. It is part of the Angkor forest and on the way to the famous temples (NO ANGKOR TICKET NEEDED). The family also has a small chicken farm in the back yard as well as a beautiful garden. While the husband is working as a tuk tuk driver (who also can pick you up at your hotel), Vannarith takes care of the house, her two daughters and the food. She is an excellent cook with passion and lots of knowledge about local herbs and spices. DineAnd she makes the best fish balls in town. As in many Khmer homes, they have dogs and cats on the premise, but they are friendly and used to visitors. Enjoy playing with them! The Menu Chha Prey Sach Moun Fried chicken with khmer herbs Cha banlle tohu Stir fried vegetables with tofu and garlic Fresh fruits As a dessert – as usual all over Indochina – you get fresh seasonal fruits. Some may just come from the garden and trees, other from the market, depending on the availability and season. Sngor Banlle Soup of homemade fish or pork meatball and different kinds of vegetables The experience Just going to the place is an experience by itself, because its a bit hidden (but no worries, we help you with that). The wooden house in the forest, and in the back they have a small and cute chicken farm (not the industry style, more like VIP cabins). There is actually a good reason why every rooster lives with five hens in their own small house. Ask the family why they keep them this way. Explore the vast garden and the many plants, and learn what plants and leaves from the bushes and trees are used in your food. Overnight in Siem Reap.
In the morning visit a small pink sandstone temple Banteay Srei, with another stop along the way back to Siem Reap to see Banteay Samrea. In the afternoon overland transfer to Phnom Penh (without guide Overnight in Phnom Penh.
Time at leisure until your transfer to the airport for departure from the Kingdom of Wonders. Flight from Phnom Penh to Bangkok (Air fare is not included in the rate yet) Welcome to Bangkok!! Transfer from Bangkok airport to hotel in Bangkok. (Check-in time is by 2 PM unless the early check-in required)
Pick up from your hotel, continue and visit The Grand Palace or Wat Phra Kaew, known generally among foreigners as the temple of the Emerald Buddha. Wat Phra Kaew is regarded as the most significant of all Thai temples, and the small green-jade statue of the Buddha, high on its golden altar in the Chapel Royal, is the most sacred Buddha image in Thailand. Then visit Wat Pho, it is one of Bangkok’s oldest and largest temples. Wat Pho was built by King Rama I about 200 years ago and houses the gigantic gold plated Reclining Buddha image. This unique image is 49 meters long and 12 meters high with beautifully inlaid mother-of-pearl soles. Pick up from your hotel, Continue with a canal (klong) tour along Bangkok’s legendary Chao Phraya River and in the Thonburi area is one of the most interesting ways to discover the traditional charms of this city, known as the ‘Venice of the East’. Thonburi lies across the Chao Phraya river and tours on longtail boats around its numerous klongs (canals) are popular. Bangkok’s waterways are an integral part of the city’s landscape and offers visitors fascinating glimpses into the traditional Thai way of life. You’ll stop at the dazzling Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) along the way. This is the most well-known landmark and photographed image of Bangkok. It over 70 metres high, the spire is beautifully decorated with tiny pieces of coloured glass and Chinese porcelain placed delicately into intricate patterns. The smaller towers are equally beautifully adorned with ceramics that sparkle in the sun. Although it is known as the Temple of the Dawn, it is absolutely stunning at sunset.
Breakfast at hotel After Breakfast, check out. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Flight from Bangkok to Phuket (not included yet in the rate) Meet upon arrival at Phuket airport. Transfer from airport to hotel.
Breakfast at hotel Free at leisure.
Breakfast at hotel After breakfast, check out. Get ready for transfer from hotel to airport. (Check-out time is until 12.00 p.m. unless a late check-out is required).
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