Trip Timeline Overview
Here is your day-by-day adventure at a glance. This timeline shows your travel and destination days from start to finish. Click on any destination block to jump to the detailed plan for that city.
Dec 25, 2025
🏠 Seattle
Departure day.
Dec 26, 2025
🛫 Flying to Bangkok
Your journey begins! Crossing the International Date Line.
Dec 27-30, 2025
4 Nights
🇹🇭 Bangkok, Thailand
Explore grand temples, bustling markets, and modern cityscapes.
Dec 31 - Jan 2
3 Nights
🇱🇦 Luang Prabang, Laos
Discover serene temples, stunning waterfalls, and spiritual traditions.
Jan 3-6, 2026
4 Nights
🇻🇳 Hoi An, Vietnam
Relax in the lantern-lit ancient town, known for its food and beaches.
Jan 7-9, 2026
3 Nights
🇻🇳 Hanoi, Vietnam
Experience the vibrant capital, rich in history and culture.
Jan 10, 2026
🏠 Flying to Seattle
Depart from Hanoi, filled with incredible memories.
🇹🇭 Bangkok, Thailand
December 27 - 30, 2025 (4 Nights)
Welcome to the City of Angels! A whirlwind of sacred temples, floating markets, and futuristic skyscrapers. This is your high-energy introduction to Southeast Asia. Below is a detailed plan blending cultural immersion with urban adventure.
📅 Suggested Itinerary
Day 1 (Dec 27): Arrival & Rooftop Views
Arrive and settle in. As planned, a relaxing movie is perfect. For dinner, elevate the experience at a rooftop bar like Vertigo at the Banyan Tree for unforgettable city panoramas.
Day 2 (Dec 28): Temples, Tuk Tuks & Muay Thai
Morning visit to the Grand Palace and Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha). In the afternoon, the Tuk Tuk tour awaits! In the evening, feel the adrenaline at a Muay Thai match at Rajadamnern Stadium.
Day 3 (Dec 29): River Views & Local Culture
Explore across the river at Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn). Your idea to visit an orphanage is commendable; ensure arrangements are made with a reputable NGO like the Mercy Centre for an ethical and meaningful visit. End with a memorable dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River.
Day 4 (Dec 30): Canals & Silks
Take a private long-tail boat tour of the *khlongs* (canals) in Thonburi to see a different, more traditional side of Bangkok. In the afternoon, visit the Jim Thompson House, a beautiful museum of traditional Thai architecture and silks.
🏨 Accommodation Options (4-Star+)
- Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok: Legendary riverside luxury.
- The Peninsula Bangkok: All rooms have river views.
- Banyan Tree Bangkok: Home to the famous Vertigo rooftop bar.
🌳 Alternatives & Sights
- Chatuchak Market: One of the world's largest weekend markets (if your dates align).
- Asiatique The Riverfront: A large, modern night market with a Ferris wheel.
- Floating Markets: Take a day trip to Damnoen Saduak for a classic experience.
🇱🇦 Luang Prabang, Laos
December 31, 2025 - January 2, 2026 (3 Nights)
A UNESCO city where time slows down. Luang Prabang's tranquil blend of golden-roofed temples, colonial architecture, and natural beauty offers a peaceful contrast. Your stay here is about spiritual traditions and serene landscapes.
📅 Suggested Itinerary
Day 1 (Dec 31): Arrival, Sunset & New Year's
Arrive from Bangkok. Settle in and wander the charming streets. Late afternoon, climb Mount Phousi for a stunning sunset. Enjoy a special New Year's Eve dinner at a restaurant along the Mekong.
Day 2 (Jan 1): Alms Ceremony & Pak Ou Caves
Witness the sacred Tak Bat (alms-giving ceremony) at dawn. It's a moving, silent procession. Please observe respectfully. Later, take your planned Mekong boat tour to the Pak Ou Caves.
Day 3 (Jan 2): Waterfalls & Local Life
A trip to the breathtaking, multi-tiered Kuang Si Waterfalls. Swim in the turquoise pools and visit the nearby Bear Rescue Centre. Explore the Night Market for dinner and handicrafts.
🏨 Accommodation Options (4-Star+)
- Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao: Stunning hilltop views and luxury.
- Sofitel Luang Prabang: A beautifully restored governor's mansion.
- Avani+ Luang Prabang: Central location with contemporary style.
🌳 Alternatives & Sights
- Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre: Learn about Laos' diverse ethnic groups.
- Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre: Beautiful textiles and classes.
- Wat Xieng Thong: The city's most magnificent temple.
🇻🇳 Hoi An, Vietnam
January 3 - 6, 2026 (4 Nights)
Hoi An is pure magic. A beautifully preserved ancient town with lantern-lit streets, a world-class food scene, and relaxing beaches nearby. This part of your trip is for slowing down, soaking in the atmosphere, and enjoying the finer things.
📅 Suggested Itinerary
Day 1 (Jan 3): Arrival, Lanterns & Tailors
Arrive from Luang Prabang (via Da Nang). Explore the Ancient Town as it lights up with silk lanterns. This is the perfect time to visit a tailor like Yaly Couture for custom clothing.
Day 2 (Jan 4): Beach & Bicycles
Relax at An Bang Beach in the morning. In the afternoon, a bicycle ride through the rice paddies is a must. You can visit the Tra Que Herb Village and learn about local farming.
Day 3 (Jan 5): Cooking & Crafts
Immerse yourselves in Vietnamese cuisine with a cooking class at Red Bridge Cooking School. Spend the afternoon with final tailor fittings and shopping for unique souvenirs.
Day 4 (Jan 6): My Son Sanctuary & Farewell
Take a half-day trip to My Son Sanctuary, the ancient ruins of the Champa Kingdom. Return to Hoi An for a final relaxed afternoon, perhaps a boat ride on the river or picking up your tailored clothes.
🏨 Accommodation Options (4-Star+)
- Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai: Ultimate luxury on the beach.
- Anantara Hoi An Resort: On the river, close to the Ancient Town.
- Hotel Royal Hoi An - MGallery: Stylish boutique hotel.
🌳 Alternatives & Sights
- Da Nang Day Trip: Visit the Marble Mountains and the Lady Buddha.
- Japanese Covered Bridge: The iconic symbol of Hoi An.
- Make Your Own Lantern: Participate in a fun family workshop.
🇻🇳 Hanoi, Vietnam
January 7 - 9, 2026 (3 Nights)
Your journey concludes in Vietnam's captivating capital. Hanoi is a city of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet colonial grandeur and modern energy. Explore its rich history, tranquil lakes, and legendary street food culture.
📅 Suggested Itinerary
Day 1 (Jan 7): Arrival, Jeep Tour & Puppets
Arrive from Hoi An (via Da Nang). A Vintage Jeep Tour is a fantastic way to get your bearings on the first afternoon. In the evening, the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre show is an absolute must-see.
Day 2 (Jan 8): History & Old Quarter
Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex and the historic Temple of Literature. Spend the afternoon navigating the thrilling maze of the Old Quarter's 36 streets and sampling street food.
Day 3 (Jan 9): French Quarter & Farewell
Stroll through the elegant French Quarter to see the Hanoi Opera House. Take a final walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, visit Ngoc Son Temple, try a unique "egg coffee," and enjoy a farewell dinner.
🏨 Accommodation Options (4-Star+)
- Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi: Iconic, historic luxury in the French Quarter.
- Capella Hanoi: A lavish, art nouveau-inspired luxury hotel.
- InterContinental Hanoi Westlake: Unique over-water setting on West Lake.
🌳 Alternatives & Sights
- Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Fascinating look at Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups.
- Hoa Lo Prison ("Hanoi Hilton"): A sobering but important historical site.
- Lotte Observation Deck: For amazing panoramic city views (great for kids).