Authentic IndoChina: An Immersive Odyssey through Thailand and Cambodia with Realistic Asia.

Already, we’ve turned to our friends at ​Realistic Asia DMC​ for their unique take on the best of Vietnam -this time, we wanted to explore how they would immerse your guests in authentic Thailand and Cambodia, offering up an​ inspirational itinerary that dives deep into the heritage and hearts of both countries.

South-East Asia really does have it all. Its rich heritage is revealed through ancient ruins and bewitching temples, and its natural beauty through emerald jungles, ivory beaches and mist-shrouded mountains.

Bustling cities fade into fertile countryside, dotted with rural villages and wound through with waterways. And everywhere you go, the people are warm and welcoming, and the food is sublime.

Perfect for all types of Asian adventurers, from families and first-timers to solo spirits, every element of this trip is meticulously curated. Superlative guides, luxurious accommodations, and private transfers - all combine to ensure an experience that’s seamless from the first second to the last. ​

Bangkok, The City of Angels

Your guests’ adventure begins in Bangkok, the beating heart of Thailand that pulsates day and night with energy and excitement.

And what better way to kick off your Bangkok adventure than with a ​Realistic Asia​ city safari, exploring Bangkok as the locals do! Guests can experience the many modes of transportation including the Skytrain, subway, public boats, and local buses - all modes of transport that locals use to travel across the city.

Discover Wat Pho, one of the city's oldest temples which sits in a vast, serene complex with beautiful courtyards and exquisite muralled galleries. Particularly famous for its colossal 150-foot-long reclining Buddha, dressed in gold leaf, Wat Pho is also considered the birthplace of traditional Thai massage and houses a renowned Thai massage school where visitors can learn the art of this therapeutic practice.

Break for a traditional lunch before taking a tuk-tuk to the Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall followed by a boat ride along the canal to Hua Chang Pier for a spot of shopping.

Summer Palaces and Ancient Capitals

Further still from the bustle of the city, the scenic route to Ayutthaya passes through lush countryside and picturesque paddy fields before guests stop off to admire the breathtaking Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, with its exquisite architecture and beautifully lush, landscaped gardens.

A scenic river boat ride arrives at Wat Niwet Thammaprawat, a Buddhist temple renowned for its distinctive and unusually European Gothic architecture.

Reminiscent of a European cathedral, complete with pointed arches, stained-glass windows and spires, the temple is a testament to the Thai Kingdom’s religious tolerance and harmony dating back to the 19th Century - a wonderful place to appreciate the cultural diversity and openness of Thailand.

From here, the Thanatharee rice barge from Wat Kasatra Pier is the perfect place for a fabulous lunch cruise along the Chao Phraya River, soaking up views of Wat Phanan Choeng, the Elephant Kraal Pavilion and the vibrant local river life - all organised by ​Realistic Asia.​

But the pièce de résistance of the day is its conclusion in ancient Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage city dating back to the 14th century which was once the capital of the Siam Kingdom.

Here, guests can stroll the timeless ruins of bygone palaces, temples and monasteries, engrossed in the past of countless centuries-old Thai landmarks including the towering stupa of Wat Yai Chaimongkol, the iconic Banyan and Buddha of Wat Mahathat and the Khmer-style architecture of Wat Chai Wattanaram.

A taste of Bangkok to keep

For the most memorable of final flourishes in Bangkok, guests spend their final day in the Thai capital indulging in a culinary adventure.

Under the expert tutelage of a local chef, the day begins at the vibrant Wat Khaek Market, selecting the very best ingredients from a kaleidoscope of fresh produce and herbs.

Returning to the cooking school, fortified with refreshments and newly equipped with an apron and recipe book, guests are let into the secrets of a number of local Thai delicacies as they’re guided through the preparation of dishes like Pad Thai, Mango Sticky Rice and Spring Rolls - finishing with a feast that can be replicated at home, time and time again!

Stay at the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok - a five-star luxury resort-inspired haven in the most perfect location for discovering Bangkok.

Chiang-Mai - the Rose of the North

After the vivacity of Bangkok, a flight to Chiang Mai ushers in a change of pace.

A city of enchantment nestled in the lush mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is renowned for its cultural richness and natural beauty, offering a serene escape from the bustle of the country's urban centres.

This long-lived place is a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern vitality.

Its historic Old City is encircled by ancient walls and moats, housing numerous temples from which the spiritual sounds of monks' chants emanate for a truly spiritual vibe.

A hub for traditional arts and crafts, its markets overflow with handwoven textiles, intricate silverware and other artisanal creations.

And it’s an immersive paradise for anyone with a little adventure in their soul.

Here, ​Realistic Asia​ guests can take part in river and jungle expeditions, visit fascinating local villages and interact with nature’s most gentle giants at ethical elephant sanctuaries.

30 minutes north of Chiang Mai, a long-tail boat dock with a pretty herbal garden is the perfect docking point for a boat trip along the Mae Ping River.

Flowing through this verdant, mountainous landscape, the banks of the Mae Ping are lined with jungles, rolling hills and farmland, serving scenes of local farming and fishing life as it winds past traditional villages, wooden houses and temples, as well as more modern buildings that showcase Thailand’s progress.

An ethical encounter with Elephants and Almsgiving at dawn

South of Chiang Mai, a scenic countryside journey arrives at Elephant Discover Camp, an ethical sanctuary and ​Realistic Asia​ must-see, dedicated to the well-being of these soulful animals.

After introductions, the mahout (elephant handler) talks guests through the elephants’ daily routines - from what they eat and how they bathe to how they care for one another as part of the herd.

At bathing time, visitors accompany the elephants to the river for their water and mud baths, before helping out under the mahout’s guidance - communicating with and preparing food for the graceful giants as part of a moving and memorable experience that guests will cherish for years to come.

Filled with serenity, guests return to the restful embrace of the Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort, nestled away in the heart of Chang Mai.

An early rise allows guests to participate in traditional religious life.

At the foot of the Doi Suthep mountain, guests arrive in time to buy offerings and join in with the daily almsgiving ceremony for the Buddhist monks, who walk barefoot through the streets at dawn collecting offerings.

To reach Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, visitors climb the 309 steps of the Golden Naga staircase, flanked by ornate serpent sculptures. The climb is a symbolic and meditative experience, and the summit reveals not only wonderful panoramic views but also the chance to explore the temple's stunning pagodas, chedis and intricate structures - including the golden chedi, said to house a relic of the Buddha.

Off the beaten trail, a trip deep into the lush Doi Suthep-Pui National Park reaches Wat Palad, also known as the "Temple Below the Temple".

Reached by a nature hike along a picturesque trail, this hidden gem has a rich history dating back over 650 years and is a fabulous place to connect with nature, spirituality and Thai history in an unspoiled setting - an experience further capped by moving on to the 14th-Century Wat Umong, whose heavily-forested temple complex complete with moss-covered stupas and mysterious tunnels is a landscape carved from legend.

Here, guests take part in a private blessing ceremony followed by a much-needed and utterly delicious bowl of Khao Soy, a beloved regional dish of creamy coconut and crispy noodles.

The Enigmatic Kingdom of Cambodia

Over the border in Cambodia, it’s time to experience the charm and culture of Siem Reap.

Much more than just the gateway to Angkor, Siem Reap is a vibrant hub of Cambodian culture, with endless opportunities to explore its rich heritage, taste its incredible food (the street food here is a must-not-miss!), witness traditional Apsara dance performances, explore local markets and interact with the warm and friendly Khmer people.

Sunrise Over Siem Reap In Hot Air Balloon

If your guests are travelling in the dry season, why not include an incredible sunrise hot air balloon experience?

Organised by​ Realistic Asia​, this magical adventure can offer a small party of 3-4 guests a panoramic view of the whole Angkor Wat complex. From the height of 200m, your clients will be captivated by the unforgettable sights, sounds and morning breeze.

Stay at the iconic ​Raffles Grand Hotel DÁngkor,​ on the doorstep of the UNESCO heritage site.

With the hotel providing the most luxurious of bases, guests can take their time to dive into local life, savouring the very best of Khmer cuisine with an evening meal at the exceptional Chanrey Tree.

Set in a beautifully restored wooden house, this elegant top-rated restaurant is celebrated as much for its ambience as it is for its dedication to promoting traditional Cambodian flavours, its classic-meets-contemporary vibe the ideal backdrop for standout dishes like Amok (a creamy coconut curry), Lok Lak (stir-fried beef) and a variety of fresh and flavourful salads.

The unmissable Angkor

Well-fed and well-rested, the mind-blowing beauty of Angkor beckons - ​Realistic Asia​ recommends this trip split between two days to let guests explore this sacred site more fully.

On day one, entering the ancient Khmer capital of Angkor Thom via the South Gate is a dramatic and iconic introduction to the city that sets the scene perfectly for what’s to come.

The intricate carvings of the gate make way for a path of statues - 54 in total - depicting gods and demons holding the sacred naga snake.

Again the number 54 (representing the Khmer Empire’s 54 provinces) appears at Bayon Temple, a 12th-century masterpiece famous for its 54 towers carved with serene and enigmatic stone faces.

After a happy day spent exploring, guests will welcome a relaxing cruise in the late afternoon, taking a gondola paddle boat around the Angkor Thom moat in time to catch the sun dipping languorously behind Prasat Chroung temple, with cocktails, champagne, canapés and soft drinks on offer as they glide gently along the ancient moat.

Day two’s return begins with the unmissable Angkor Wat before stepping off the more well-trodden paths to visit the Roluos temples, set among rice paddies and sugar palm plantations.

Close to Angkor Wat, these 8th and 9th-century temples are the oldest ruins in the region, and yet they’re still remarkably well preserved - offering a spellbinding insight into how Khmer architecture developed over the centuries, culminating in the grandeur of Angkor Wat and similar temples within the vast park.

A 2-mile (3 km) walking tour allows a closer inspection of the three largest temples, Lolei, Bakong and Preah Ko, with the opportunity for guests to step inside for a special blessing ceremony bestowing wishes of good luck and health from a Buddhist monk - a wonderful spiritual souvenir of their time in Cambodia!

Hanoi Calling

The last stop on this momentous South Asia odyssey is Hanoi - historic, vital and resonating with an intoxicating rhythm all of its own.

In the labyrinthine streets of the Old Quarter, guests can choose to stroll without haste or explore the temples, French colonial architecture and Vietnamese tubular houses on a traditional three-wheeled cyclo for an authentic Hanoian escapade.

The street food here is not to be missed - from the locally revered bun cha (noodle soup with grilled pork) and pho ga (chicken noodle soup) to egg coffee; the delectable steamed and spiced banh duc rice cakes to the delights of the Trand Tien ice-cream shop.

​Realistic Asia ​local guides are on hand to steer guests through the cuisine of the Old Quarter, weaving through the local markets and experiencing the tastes of Hanoian childhood with a dessert-shop stop before a trip down one of Hanoi’s tiny alleys offers the chance to learn about the city’s signature tubular houses.

And no gastronome would be happy without a trip to Banh My Lan Ong, whose banh mi (French baguette with beef paté) is famous well beyond Hanoi!

For those longing to experience a little local folk culture, a water puppet show offers up a taste of 11th-century Vietnamese art, with handcrafted puppets sharing the tales of Vietnam’s ancient myths; from lion dances to buffalo fighting.

And of course, the city is as rich in culture as it is in heritage and folklore.

Quoc Tu Giam, the Temple of Literature, was Vietnam’s first university, dating back almost a millennium to its establishment in 1076 - a thrilling peek back into the Vietnam of centuries past.

Not forgetting, there’s the Thang Long Imperial Citadel.

Marking the perfect final exploration to end this immersive odyssey of authentic Indochina, Hanoi’s UNESCO World Heritage site was rebuilt in the 11th Century on the ruins of a then-ancient Chinese fortress and is an incredible lasting fusion of Asian influences that blends the Chinese to the North with the ancient Kingdom of Champa to the South.

Stay at ​Hotel De l'Opera MGallery,​ a sleek and contemporary hotel, just a few minutes walk from the charming old quarter.

Time to dive in?

If this has your guests feeling inspired and eager to experience their own unparalleled adventure through Thailand and Cambodia, Realistic Asia is ready and waiting to create their trip of a lifetime!

Get in touch today to organise an introduction to Hien and the team - or simply to pose your questions about the countless options and add-ons available to personalise an itinerary that suits any needs.