The Best of Southeast Asia: Thailand, Laos, Cambodia & Vietnam

I cannot thank Wilai Deelert enough for all she did for us on this tour. The trip was extremely well organized and mainly followed the itinerary as sent to us in advance. The local guides were also well informed and were able to answer any questions. This trip was a sort of pilgrimage since my brother and some friends had served in the Vietnam War. We were pleased to see that Vietnam had advanced in 50 years. Thailand, Laos and Cambodia were also interesting and the visits with local families and schools were so informative. There are only good things to say about this trip and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in Southeast Asia.

The SE Asia trip offering through Road Scholar is not to be missed. The itinerary is beautifully designed and the trip is a rich combination of luxury and views into what life is like for residents in these four countries. The pace is invigorating and the experiences are inspiring!

!! An Excellent Tour !! We visited sites that are interesting and significant: for their scenery, history, culture, politics, economics, etc. Our Group Leader and various local Guides and lecturers were excellent and full of knowledge, personal experience and stories.

The Best of SE Asia was a wonderful trip. RS did a great job, as always. Our primary guide, Wilai, was fantastic and saw to everyone's needs. For local guides, the tour guide for Cambodia was excellent and I recommend RS continue to use him. I did not care for the guide in Saigon. The hotels were good and the activities were good. Our trip had a person who needed a wheelchair and two people who needed cane assistance. This slowed us down a bit and was a little frustrating. There were too many 'meals on your own' for a RS trip in my opinion - over 33%. I always think RS covers almost everything. There was not enough time at some of the sites since RS was trying to fit so much in. The first day in Hanoi, we visited four sites after we landed. I skipped the RS activity on the last day so that I could go back to one of the sites. This is from the top of my head, but it was a great trip and I would do it again.

This is a most comprehensive, interesting and informative program I have participated in. And I have traveled many parts of the world in my 83 years. The balance to get an overview and some knowledge about the historical, geo-political, culturally unique, deeply rooted ancient religions & social values/mores, complexities this program provides is phenomenal! I am still digesting and comprehend what I learned, saw, experienced, . . .

This trip proved to be a fabulous and exotic adventure full of enriching activities. Road Scholar really delivered! Our group seemed to enjoy each other and we had a superb group leader (Dome) who ensured that the logistics went smoothly (and also served as a country specialist in his home country of Thailand) and excellent country specialists in Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. They all did a great job of integrating the cultural, historical, political, architectural, and religious aspects of these countries in a way that was meaningful and understandable. My wife and I felt that the accommodations and meals that were provided as part of the tour were first rate (4 and 5 star hotels). Meals at individual homes or at restaurants throughout the program were uniformly very good and resulted in getting a good sense of the culinary heritage of the region. They were sometimes paired with authentic dance recitals or puppet shows. Activities ranged from visits to world heritage site temples (including Angkor Wat) and natural resources (Ha Long Bay), and boat rides on the Mekong in Laos and in the delta of southern Vietnam. Highlights also included context-setting lectures on economic and political developments in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, including meeting with university students in Saigon. We visited a primary school in a rural village in Cambodia that was both fascinating and inspiring. Our visits to the tunnels of the Ho Chi Minh Trail and the Hanoi Hilton are activities that I will never forget. My trip started with being clipped by a motor scooter in Chang Mai, Thailand, that required medical attention (7 stitches and a broken finger). Dome was an incredible help in navigating the emergency room and follow-up for wound care and stitch removal in Cambodia and Vietnam. The exercise level represented by RS seemed on target. This is a very fast paced trip because of the number of countries visited. My main suggestion would be for more free time. Great trip! Thanks!

We highly recommend this program for the wide range of experiences provided for this overview of these Southeast Asian countries. It was everything, and more, that we expected. An informative, fun, and joyful experience!

This is a great trip to see the highlights of Southeast Asia and I highly recommend it. There are challenges, however, such as the long flight to get there, 6 flights between Bangkok to Hanoi, multiple stairs to negotiate on boats and temples, and finally heat and humidity. For most of us this was as a doable adventure but a moderate degree of fitness is required. Be prepared to take your shoes often as most of the temples require it and you will see many spectacular ones. This trip should be on your do list and appears to be Road Scholar popular trip for them. If you get Dome as your guide you have one of the best in their system.

The Best of Southeast Asia was the Best indeed. It was a great tour.We visited so many Bucket-list places and other places we hadn't ever heard of. Our guide Milai was outstanding and we enjoyed the other participants. It was a whirlwind tour (as expected) and we would love to return to the area to spend more time

Best of Southeast Asia: amazing trip, special destinations, great fellow travelers, exceptional group leader. Wonderful memories!

Southeast Asia is an adventure in great food, welcoming people, interesting culture and ife changing experiences from huge temples and bustling cities to rural communities, the Mekong and the ethereal Ha Long Bay in the fog!

The program provided an excellent overview of regional economics, food, culture, crafts, religion, nature, politics, and history. The "extras"-- like watching women weaving intricate silk patterns, engaging with school children, bathing elephants, and watching monkeys play in HaLong Bay will form lasting memories. The local guides and presenters were engaging, relevant, and balanced. The accommodations were excellent and there was plenty of evening free time to enjoy night market culture. Our guide, Wilai, was SUPERB in every way, from her personal cultural anecdotes to helping us all feel comfortable, connected, and safe. One important note: Because several southeast Asian countries engage in field burning in March, I suggest that you choose a different month to join the program if you have a love of scenic views or have any respiratory sensitivities.

Highly recommend this program for those seeking a diverse introduction to a diversified yet related four Asian countries,

this was an amazing trip. Great sight seeing, cultural and learning experiences as well as making new friends. I would highly recommend this to most people. I would suggest reading the activity level carefully as there were some that found it difficult, but i believe the descriptions of the activity level were accurate.

This being my 15th RS trip, I have points of comparison. Having said this, I can say that this trip was the best of them all. It was a life altering experience for me. Imagine spending weeks in a part of the world where kindness and friendliness and joy and warmth seem to be part of people's DNA. Kindness and warmth are contagious. I returned home vowing to be more like the people we interacted with in these SE Asian countries.. My friends tell me that I am glowing. And such fun doing things you most assuredly have never done before....helping to care for elephants in a sanctuary, rising at dawn to give food to begging monks in Laos, watching the sun rise over Angkor Wat, visiting Cambodian children in a school that RS helped start and now helps support, hearing exciting, informative lectures about these ancient civilizations that have entered the 21st century successfully with their cultures intact, cruising overnight on HaLong Bay, a place of otherworldly beauty. As for our guide, Wilai.... one of the most beautiful people I have ever met in my long lifetime. She is warm and caring and immensely knowledgeable and fun and efficient and professional . Being one of the chickens to this mother hen (her words, not mine) was such a joy. I miss her. I will always miss her. Spending time with her made all our lives richer and better. If you are considering this trip, stop considering and GO! You'll be so so so happy that you did.

Our trip was a soupçon of SE Asia; a whirlwind of four countries in three weeks, lead by excellent guides, with excellent lectures and experiences, and shared with lively, interested, interesting, and educated folks from all over. A really grand experience and I learned so much!

This was the Best Trip I ever experienced with Road Scholar. Our guide Wilai Deelert was the person that made this trip an amazing success. As our guide, she ensured that all of us were included in activities as per our level of tolerance. She coordinated all events with kindness, compassion and professionalism. She responded immediately to any concerns and resolved issues promptly. Her smile and great sense of humor was contagious. She is extremely hard working and dedicated her whole self to ensure that our group had a successful trip filled with adventures. She deserved the title of Super Beautiful and Best Guide of Road Scholar trips. Thank You, Wilai, for making the Best of Southeast Asia an experience of a Life Time. You will always be remembered as the most talented Travel Guide I ever met in my life.

Most interesting and educational of the Road Scholar programs I have attended. I highly recommend it.

Road Scholar tours are very pleasurable, This was our third trip and we enjoyed it very much. I just wish food was offered more in a buffet style to avoid food waste in poor countries.

This was a terrific and eductational (as well as informative and interesting!) experience. There was a wide variety of information presented in varying manners - and participation was occasionally "hands on", too. It was a great trip and I'm so glad I was able to participate in it!

An incredible fast-paced three week adventure admixing big city experiences with trips into local villages. We saw many historical sites, but also got a glimpse into how the people actually live. Ping, our primary guide was exceptional.

This was an amazing trip with a wide variety of activities. Wilai Deelert is an amazing group leader who took a personal interest in each of us. She was able to have the group work well together with a smile on her face.

I have no complaints about trip it was one of my top trips to do

What a great trip. People ask me what was my favorite activity or experience and all I can respond with is that every day offered new opportunities to be delighted and awed. We had an amazing guide, "Ping", whose insights, stories and humor enhanced our daily activities. Some of my most memorable activities were visiting an elephant sanctuary in Chang Mai, feeling the peace and tranquility of Luang Prabang, spending time with villagers understanding their daily life, Visiting the Ankor temples in Cambodia, Discovering the intensity of Ho Chi Minh city, and the traditions and markets of Hanoi. This is a very active on the go trip. Lots of travel time to different cities and countries. It is an excellent introduction to SE Asia.

This program offers an incredible variety of experiences from spending time in the heart of exotic cities to bathing with elephants.

Wow, what a wonderfully and rich experience. Better than I imagined it could be. Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam are filled with kind people that made all we learned very enjoyable. Our main tour guide Wilai who was with us throughout the tour, was extraordinary. Equanimity describes her well. Even with unexpected circumstances that required great multitasking and management skills, Wilai exhibited mental calmness, composure, and evenness of temper, even in difficult situations. I think everyone came to hold her in very high regard and many of us hope to travel with her to Myanmar, should Road Scholar resume that tour.

This was my first Road Scholar trip, and it won't be my last! The trip was fantastic. We were very busy with many unique activities. Everything went very smoothly. The leader and the group were knowledgeable and friendly.

This tour of four Southeast Asia countries was just what I wanted and it exceeded my expectations. We had a fantastic tour guide who got us safely through many air flights and travel options and maintained his sense of humor no matter what.

This was my first Road Scholar trip. I was so impressed with how well organized and thought out this tour was. I could simply relax and take in all the beauty and new experiences.

Amazing journey in SE Asia. I learned so much about these ancient lands, people and their culture. LOVED IT!

Our guide, Wilai Deelert, made this trip an absolute joy! Really can't say enough positive things about her--she held this long trip together with good communication, cheer, and caring. Amazing guide and amazing human being! As for the trip, there is quite a bit of flying and busing. We had some connection issues that made for long days, and some of the day trips on a bus had more bus time than I would have liked. The cultural interactions with local dancers, puppeteers, monks, lecturers, and villagers were highlights of the trip, and I honestly don't know how you would arrange these interactions if you were on your own. The amount of information from our trip guide (Wilai) and the local guides in each location was significant and meaningful. The food was mostly good, with a few exceptions.

This was a trip for a lifetime. Our tour leader, Wilai, brought the 4 countries alive for us; past, present, future. Great guides, wonderful people and culture, unbelievable experiences.

This was a whale of a trip! A true survey course of different cultures, different geographies, and perhaps different expectations. Prospective travelers should know that it is HOT in Southeast Asia. We were there in their "winter." Folks there, especially in Laos and northern Vietnam, kept telling us how cold it was. Yeah, cold. High 60s at night and mid-90s or higher during the day! The heat, coupled with recovery from a 15-17 hour international plane trip and the hassle of several internal flights gave this journey potential for exhaustion and illness (yes some of us got sick) if one is not prepared. Take Road Scholar's suggestions seriously, it's not for the faint of heart. But if you can handle it and have an interest in this part of the world, treat yourself to three great weeks. If you're lucky, you will have Wilai as your guide. I've been on lots of Road Scholar trips and she's the best guide I've ever had the fortune to be with. I think my traveling companions would agree that she became our trusted friend and we miss her. Lodgings were well sited and nice, especially the resort in Laos. Biggest surprise for me was the reaction to us by the people in Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. I'm a male of the generation which took part in the plunder of these three countries during our horrible war there. Our mines and cluster bombs are still maiming people - kids - daily. The devastation our war created 50 years ago is still felt. Yet, we were treated warmly and were able to see, especially in Vietnam, how the countries have recovered and prospered. The cosmopolitan cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) will turn your head. The industry and pride of the people we visited in the rural areas will delight you. The natural beauty of all four will stay forever in your thoughts when you come home. How this region has moved into the 21st century and retained its thousand+ years of uniqueness will give you pause and open your mind.

The actual tour was great, four countries, four cultures. My particular favorite was the elephant sanctuary in Chiangmai, followed by all of the temples in Cambodia. This was my first trip with RS, although I traveled the world with other companies. That said, our tour director, Wilai, was the best tour director I have ever had. Her attention to detail, the care shown to her clients, and her general attitude were all fantastic. On the other hand, I found working with RS Travel services was ridiculously painful and I will NEVER use them again for anything. I ended up making all of my own flight arrangements within 20 minutes on Expedia after waiting for RS to do it for over 2 months. I heard similar stories from some of my fellow travelers. Likewise, I had to manage my own early checkin in Bangkok--normally a trivial thing to do-- through a set of travel/political gymnastics that RS just could not seem to handle. Like I said, the tour itself was great; but as for the administrative front end of RS, my personal recommendation is that you make the required payment for the tour....and then IMO you're better off making your own flight arrangements, hotel extensions, etc. rather than dealing with weeks of frustration.

Maybe they should call this program “An introduction to South East Asia”. Visiting four different countries with four different languages and four different currencies can be a challenge. It’s an excellent taste, and has left me with curiosity about each of the countries and cultures. It’s also a fascination insight into the history of the area.

5 stars. Four countries in less than three weeks just gives you a chance to barely skim the surface. I’m so glad I got to see some of this part of the world. I was there in September and it was very warm and humid. The other travelers were almost all considerate, smart , interesting people. The local people in each country were friendly and welcoming. You should be prepared for the physical activity that is listed. If you are thinking about going, I’d highly recommend it.

What a fantastic trip. We really enjoyed the tour and Mr. Ping was just an excellent tour guide. I would definitely recommend this trip to my friends and family. I found this trip to be very educational and fun overall.

'Ping' (Issaret Poldee) is an exceptional guide and human being. Try to plan a trip where he is leader. He is absolutely wonderful. Be prepared for the heat and humidity. Be sure to drink the water provided and have sun protection. This is an incredible tour; come with an open mind and a will to learn.

Hot and sticky climate but a very worthwhile introduction to many, many sites in SE Asia.

Southeast Asia in 21 days was a trip of a lifetime. Being able to see and experience a new part of the world (Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam) was not previously on my bucket list but I am certainly glad I gained new perspectives of this part of the world. Our guide, Dome, was top notch, and the best tour guide I have ever travelled with.

SPECTACULAR!! Don't miss this one if possible.

A fantastic experience that included sightseeing, lectures, demonstrations, meals and free time. If you're looking to experience S.E. Asia this is a superb way to do it! Planning something like this on my own would have taken an enormous amount of time, energy and I likely wouldn't have seen or done many of the excellent activities that we did on the trip.

This tour hits the famous highlights of Southeast Asia and also intimate spots in rural areas that you likely wouldn't find on your own. The small group format enhances group cohesion and ability to move fast. Consult the reading list first and make sure you will be able to keep up (walking a few miles, lots of stairs, hot temperatures). The accomodations and meals are first rate; plan on gaining a few pounds! Overall an excellent learning experience and great fun.

Don’t miss this opportunity to visit four Southeastern Asian countries. Wonderful trip, wonderful sights, wonderful people, wonderful food. Our favorite Road Scholar trip so far!

Our primary guide ,”Ping” did a fabulous job of keeping us educated, entertained, and in a good mood. This was critical, because at the pace we travelled, personalities began to grate. The description said “keep the pace” but it might better say “exhausting”. (Several of the participants were less mobile than the activities required, so perhaps additional warning is required). While each venue was worthwhile, there were too many. I would recommend 5 days in Chiang Mai, 5 days in Luang Prabang, and 5 days in Siem Reap. I would drop both Saigon and Hanoi, even though Ha Loong Bay was amazing. That would allow for fewer wasted hours of travel, and fewer trips through airport security. Several of us sensed some hostility and some anxiety in the people we interacted with in Viet Nam, especially in North Vietnam. This was completely at odds with the open-hearted welcome we enjoyed in the first three countries. The food was of variable quality-on the home visits it was great, and on the Ha Loong boat it was spectacular. At the farewell dinner, alas, some of it bordered on inedible. The buses were spacious and comfortable, the drivers competent and personable. The hotels were better than I expected, and the best was the Santee Resort . Highlights included (1)the monk chat (who knew a Buddhist monk would be charming and funny?) Pra K.K. Was wonderful. (2) sunrise over Angkor Wat (3) the home visit in Laos, (4) the trips on the Mekong, and of course Ha Loong Bay, where I would have been happy to spend more time.

This is an excellent trip with a fantastic itinerary. Each day offers interesting places to visit, iconic scenery and interesting cultural experiences. I loved this trip! KLS

This was my first solo group travel experience and I will definitely do more. I am already thinking about my next trip. The guides were phenomenal, meals were exciting, accommodations were above my expectations (except one) and overall it was an amazing experience.

I became ill during the trip and Leky not only got me to the clinic in Laos but stayed with me while they treated me. She really did go above and beyond her responsibilities. The rest of the trip was great, especially the elephant sanctuary and Ha Long Bay.

Trip of a lifetime. Dont think another minute about this. Sign up, pack light - you will totally be on the go to see as much as you can humanly see in 21 days. This is a spectacular spot on the big blue marble, lovely respectful humans, elegant environs and beaches, safe and respectful society, and too much fun. So affordable for so much to see. Trust Road Scholar with this trip - they knit together an amazing tapestry of experiences, tastes, and cultural insights.

Highly recommended for those who want a comprehensive introduction to these four important Southeast Asian countries. Road Scholar's programming provided enjoyable, educational, and varied experiences.

This was an excellent introduction to Southeast Asian countries, with a wide range of experiences and visits to the most iconic cultural sites.

This was such a wonderful, once-in-a-lifetime program! More than just seeing the popular attractions - though you'll definitely do that (Ankor Wat, Halong Bay, etc.). It's more about learning the history and culture of the countries - both ancient and modern; and meeting the people in these lands. It definitely lives up to the Keep the Pace description. Honestly, the walking in heat and humidity can be challenging, even though the distances are not very long. And tackling the steps at some of the sites and even in the cities and villages gave us a good workout - but not unmanageable. We took it slow and steady. And I feel more confidence in my fitness level now than after weeks of my daily walks at home before the trip. And our group leader, "Joe", was magnificent at helping us pace ourselves. I highly recommend this once-in-a-lifetime experience.