Southeast Asian Culinary Tour of the North and South

Your second day in the high-octane capital city of Thailand will bring out the best meals that the country has to offer by highlighting the exquisite restaurants and dining establishments that have pioneered Thailand’s culinary scene. After breakfast, you will set off with an experienced tour guide for an immersive glimpse of Thailand’s heritage. You will then be spoiled with a spread of Thai haute cuisine snacks and fragrant teas during an authentic tea ceremony. This evening will find you fine dining and partaking in a taste tour of the city’s award-winning eateries.

After breakfast this morning, you will transfer to the city of Chiang Mai. Your first afternoon here will allow you to explore some of its cherished destinations that speak volumes about Thai history. Your expedition will lead you to an ethnic Karen hill tribe, where tradition is honored in the clothes that residents wear, the food that they consume, and the infrastructure in which they have built. Before tucking into a delectable dinner this evening, you will appreciate a trip into the Chiang Mai wilderness for a hike with spectacular views of the local flora and fauna.

A premium wellness center will open its doors to you after breakfast for a peaceful morning that is imbued with Thai spa remedies. In the afternoon, you will transfer to a popular launchpad and soar into the sky in a hot air balloon for an unobstructed view of Chiang Mai. After some time in the air, the balloon will descend until you touch down to a cold glass of champagne. Before returning to your room for the night, you will transfer to a highly acclaimed restaurant for a traditional meal.

Hanoi is a cherished destination that is full of cultural highlights. After breakfast, you will transfer to Hanoi. Upon arriving, you will be met by a private driver and transferred to your accommodation. Shortly after you have unpacked your belongings, your guide will lead you on a tour of Hanoi. Your tour will take you to the Ba Dinh District. You will conclude your afternoon and tour with a stop at Hoan Kiem Lake. In the evening, you can tuck into iconic Vietnamese dishes that have been influenced by the country’s hill tribes.

Your brief stay in Hanoi will share the nuances of North Vietnamese cuisine. After breakfast, you will fly to Ho Chi Minh City for a taste of southern Vietnam before you leave. After settling in to your new surroundings, you will escape to a prestigious restaurant for lunch. Afterward, you will be led on a food tour of the ins and outs of fine Vietnamese dining. From Michelin-starred restaurants to elite galas, you will experience an in-depth tour of the country's upper-class culinary scene.

Before you leave Southeast Asia, an authentic market experience is in order. You will break away from your accommodation this morning to visit exuberant stalls. You will taste your way through the coveted dishes of southern Vietnam that have stood the test of time. Afterward, your guide will escort you to the airport for your departure.