June 30th, 2026 - July 12th, 2026

Journey Across Vietnam and Cambodia

KIKINETWORK TRAVEL
kiki@kikinetwork.com
Kiki 603-858-2733

June 30th, 2026, July 12th, 2026

Journey Across Vietnam and Cambodia

• Price: $7990.00 per person (shared room)

• Single Supplement: +$1200.00

• Group size is 8 - 12 participants. A deposit of 40% is required to reserve your place.

This curated art-historical journey through Vietnam and Cambodia is designed for intellectually curious travelers seeking depth, continuity, and meaning across Asia. Building on the shared experiences of past travels with Kiki and Mahesh in India, the expedition reveals the artistic, anthropological, and historical threads that connect South and Southeast Asia—patterns of ritual, architecture, narrative art, and performance shaped by centuries of migration, exchange, and empire.

In central Vietnam, we trace the rise of classical Vietnamese culture and what it borrowed from the Chinese artistic, intellectual and imperial traditions. Further down the Cham civilization opens a vivid chapter of Indian influence, with architectural parallels to Mahabalipuram, sculptural lineages shaped by Pallava and Ellora traditions, and narrative styles reminiscent of Ajanta

The journey culminates in Cambodia, where Angkor and the legacy of the Indianized kingdom of Funan reveal one of Asia’s great cultural syntheses—Indian cosmology transformed through Khmer genius into monumental architecture, sculpture, and performance. Along the way, travelers also encounter the grandeur of French Indochina, experiencing colonial urbanism and visual culture at scale in Danang, Hoi An, and Siem Reap—an evocative counterpoint to earlier encounters with French India and a fitting conclusion to a richly layered expedition.

Quick Summary

Itinerary Detail

Day 0: Fly overnight to Hanoi, Monday, June 29th, 2026

Fly overnight to Hanoi

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi, Tuesday, June 30th, 2026

Arrive Hanoi

Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel in the Old Quarters. After checking in to the hotel and getting your room, take some time to rest and relax after your long journey to Vietnam. Depending on your arrival time, you might even want to step out for a short walk to explore the surrounding streets. The Old Quarters is very lively with plenty of cafes, little shops and restaurants within walking distance.

We officially kick things off this evening with a welcome dinner, program orientation and conversations with Professor Jean Francoise Filipe moderated and orchestrated by Mahesh Sriram on Vietnamese and Cambodian history and culture and their Chinese, Indian, French and American heritage. As it’s the first night, the meal will feature a lighter selection of local dishes alongside familiar international options to help us to ease into the program.

Daily Summary:
Accommodation: Movenpick Hotel Hanoi Centre
Meals: Welcome Dinner

Day 2: Old Quarters, Modern History & Local Markets, Wednesday, July 1st, 2026

Old Quarters, Modern History & Local Markets

Start the day with a brisk morning walk through Hanoi’s historic Old Quarters where you’ll see the city’s old trading streets, narrow tube houses and traces of French-era planning that still influence much of Hanoi’s architectural layout. As we explore the neighborhood and adjoining streets around the lake, you’ll get a sense of the city’s early-day activity, with markets opening, locals gathering for exercise and daily routines beginning to unfold. After returning to the hotel for breakfast, we set out for a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, including the mausoleum, the HCM museum and the adjoining one pillar pagoda, which together help explain Vietnam’s path to independence and how national identity has been shaped since the mid-20th century.

Lunch is arranged at a local restaurant near the HCM complex, where we sample Vietnamese Banh Mi and other simple street-style dishes that Hanoi is well known for. Then we will visit Dong Xuan Market, one of Hanoi’s largest and most busy traditional markets. The market visit offers a glimpse into everyday life in the city with lots of little stalls selling fresh produce, household goods, textiles, street foods and various local spices and ingredients. After the market visit, we return to the hotel for some time at leisure.

In the early evening, we gather in the hotel lobby for conversations with Mahesh Sriram on the Vietnam War and its political, social, and cultural fallout. The discussion will place the conflict within a broader regional and global context and help frame many of the historical themes we will encounter during the journey. Dinner is on your own this evening, either at the hotel or at one of the many local restaurants located within walking distance.

Daily Summary:
Accommodation: Movenpick Hotel Hanoi Centre
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3: Ethnology, Origins & Cultural Heritage, Thursday, July 2nd, 2026

Ethnology, Origins & Cultural Heritage

We start the day with a breakfast conversation to understand the common traits in the art, craft, rituals, and beliefs of hill tribes across Asia - spanning China, Vietnam, Thailand, Northeast India, and Tibet. We then set out to visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, one of the country’s most important institutions for understanding Vietnam’s ethnic diversity. During the visit, Mahesh Sriram will share insights into the racial and linguistic origins of contemporary Vietnam, helping connect material culture with migration patterns across mainland Southeast Asia and southern China. From here, we continue to the Vietnam National Museum of History, where we begin piecing together Vietnamese culture chronologically. Starting from the Stone Age galleries and moving into the Dong Son and Sa Huynh sections, we examine various bronze artifacts and observe traditions that reveal early Chinese influences and clues to ancient maritime links and possible cultural connections with India.

Lunch is arranged at a well-known local restaurant in Hanoi where we enjoy a traditional bowl of Vietnamese pho - a local favorite. After lunch, we visit the Hoa Lo Prison, infamously known as “Hanoi Hilton”. Originally built during the French colonial period, the prison later became associated with the American War. From the prison, we continue to Train Street, one of Hanoi’s most unique and interesting urban areas where you’ll see narrow residential lanes that sit just inches from active railway tracks. We’ll pause at one of the small cafes along the tracks to enjoy a coffee while watching the train pass by.

This evening we attend a traditional water-puppet performance, a long-standing art form that originated in Northern Vietnam and uses water, music, and carved wooden puppets to depict scenes of rural life and folklore.

Dinner is at a plant-based Buddhist restaurant in Hanoi known for its peaceful setting and creative interpretation of traditional Vietnamese dishes. After dinner, we head back to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Daily Summary:
Accommodation: Movenpick Hotel Hanoi Centre
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Hanoi to Halong Bay, Friday, July 3rd, 2026

Hanoi to Halong Bay

We start the morning with a relaxed breakfast before making our way toward Halong Bay. The scenic drive takes us through small villages and rice fields along the Red River Delta region. Upon arrival at the pier, we board our overnight cruise boat and have a short orientation before settling into our cabins. Lunch is served shortly after departure, featuring a selection of Vietnamese and regional dishes prepared by the onboard chef. In the afternoon, we will spend our time cruising through the quieter sections of Halong Bay, known for its limestone formations and sheltered lagoons.

There will be time to relax on the deck and take in the scenery, and you are also welcome to kayak or swim. The pace is slow and scenic, offering a comfortable transition into this part of the program. As the boat anchors in a calm part of the bay, you can enjoy sunset views from the deck before dinner. The evening is kept relaxed, allowing time to unwind, read, or simply enjoy the stillness of the bay. Dinner will include a mix of freshly prepared seafood and Vietnamese dishes.

Daily Summary:
Accommodation: Alisa Luxury Cruises
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (on-board) and Dinner (on-board)

Day 5: Halong Bay - Noi Bai Airport - Hue, Saturday, July 4th, 2026

Halong Bay - Noi Bai Airport - Hue

We begin the morning with tea or coffee on the deck as the boat makes its way through the quiet waters of Halong Bay. You may join a tai chi session combined with readings from Thích Nhất Hạnh, the guru of mindfulness, on the upper deck. A relaxed breakfast is served on board as we continue cruising toward the pier. After disembarking, we begin the drive to Hanoi Airport for our flight to Hue.

Lunch is on your own at the airport before boarding the flight. Upon arrival in Hue, we make our way to a beautiful lodge set in a peaceful area just outside the city. After check-in, the evening is yours and you are free to unwind or explore the nearby village pathways, which offer a quieter look at daily life in central Vietnam. We will lead an evening walk to a small Buddhist nunnery, where we discuss Vietnamese Buddhism and converse with resident nuns. We will also be introduce to their monastic life and the gentle routines of this community.

We return to the lodge in the evening to discuss Vietnam’s historical relations with China, followed by dinner featuring local specialties such as spicy spring rolls, rice pancakes, and other dishes prepared in light broth with local herbs. After dinner, we are introduced to the traditional music of Hue, a UNESCO-recognised intangible cultural heritage of Vietnam. We will learn about this unique orchestra and how it travelled from China to the imperial courts of Vietnam.

Daily Summary:
Accommodation: Hue EcoLodge
Meals: Breakfast, and Dinner

Day 6: Imperial Heritage of Hue, Sunday, July 5th, 2026

Imperial Heritage of Hue

After breakfast, we begin the day with a visit to the Imperial City, the former seat of the Nguyễn Dynasty and the political and cultural centre of Vietnam until the mid-20th century. As we walk through its courtyards, ceremonial halls, and reconstructed gates, you’ll get a sense of the grandeur of Vietnamese imperial traditions, courtly rituals, architecture, and the layout of the complex, along with insights into the civil and military administration of medieval Vietnam. We end the visit with a walk through a photo gallery that sheds light on how Vietnam became a French protectorate and eventually a colony. The visit also includes time in sections that remain unrestored, offering a contrasting look at the impact of conflict and the ongoing efforts to preserve Hue’s heritage.

Lunch is arranged at a local café, where we sample one of Hue’s most well-known dishes, bún bò Huế, a signature central Vietnamese noodle soup. In the afternoon, we continue to the Tomb of Emperor Khải Định, known for its distinctive blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles. The tomb’s mosaics, ornate stairways, and panoramic views provide a striking contrast to the traditional imperial design seen earlier in the day. After the visit, we return to the lodge for some downtime to rest or explore the surrounding gardens before heading back for dinner. The evening begins with a conversation about the Champa and Funan dynasties that once ruled central and southern Vietnam. This is followed by a cooking class focused on central Vietnamese cuisine and dinner.

Daily Summary:
Accommodation: Hue EcoLodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7: Royal Tombs & Perfume River, Monday, July 6th, 2026

Royal Tombs & Perfume River

After breakfast, we begin the day with a visit to the Imperial City, the former seat of the Nguyễn Dynasty and the political and cultural centre of Vietnam until the mid-20th century. As we walk through its courtyards, ceremonial halls, and reconstructed gates, you’ll get a sense of the grandeur of Vietnamese imperial traditions, courtly rituals, architecture, and the layout of the complex, along with insights into the civil and military administration of medieval Vietnam. We end the visit with a walk through a photo gallery that sheds light on how Vietnam became a French protectorate and eventually a colony. The visit also includes time in sections that remain unrestored, offering a contrasting look at the impact of conflict and the ongoing efforts to preserve Hue’s heritage.

After breakfast, we set out to explore two of Hue’s most significant royal tombs, each offering a very different expression of imperial ideology and aesthetics. We begin with a visit to the Tomb of Minh Mang, considered one of the most harmonious and classically Vietnamese of the Nguyen dynasty tombs. Set within landscaped gardens, lakes, and courtyards, the complex reflects Confucian ideals of balance, hierarchy, and harmony between architecture and nature. We then continue to the Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh, known for its distinctive blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles. The tomb’s mosaics, ornate stairways, and panoramic views provide a striking contrast to the traditional imperial design common in Hue.

Lunch is arranged at a local restaurant in Hue, where we enjoy another relaxed meal featuring more central Vietnamese dishes. After lunch, the afternoon is kept unhurried. We return to the lodge for some rest and free time, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful riverside setting, gardens, or simply recharge after a morning of exploration.

In the early evening, we head out for a gentle sunset boat cruise along the Perfume River, offering a calm and atmospheric perspective of Hue as the light softens across the landscape. This is followed by a visit to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s most important religious landmarks, closely associated with Hue’s spiritual and historical identity. Dinner this evening is at leisure. Depending on the group's energy levels, we can either grab a bite to eat in town or head back to the Lodge for dinner.

Daily Summary:
Accommodation: Hue EcoLodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8: Hue to Hoi An via Scenic Coast & Cham Heritage, Tueday, July 7th, 2026

Hue to Hoi An with a Scenic Coast & Cham Heritage

We depart after breakfast and begin the scenic coastal drive from Hue to Hoi An. The first part of the journey takes us across traditional Vietnamese villages, where we learn about ancestral worship and birth and death rituals. We continue to Lap An Lagoon, a quiet water lagoon known for oyster farming and beautiful views of the distant Bach Ma mountain range. We make a brief stop to take in the surroundings and learn a little about the coastal livelihoods that shape this region. From here, the road continues toward the Hai Van Pass, a historic mountain pass separating the climates and geographies of northern and southern Vietnam. We pause at the top for panoramic views of Lang Co Bay and Da Nang, along with a short explanation of the pass’s strategic significance through Vietnamese history.

Lunch is arranged at a local restaurant in Da Nang that specializes in central Vietnamese home style dishes. The food is classical and features fresh herbs, light broths, and coastal flavors, making it an enjoyable stop before we continue onward. After lunch, we visit the Cham Museum, which houses one of the largest collections of Cham sculpture and artifacts. During our visit, our onsite travel lead will explain the significance of South Indian plastic art traditions as evidence of how both secular and religious institutions travelled across Asia. The museum provides helpful background on the Champa civilization and serves as a useful introduction to themes we will explore during our visit to Mỹ Sơn the following day. We then complete the final stretch of our drive to Hoi An and check in to a beachside resort. The remainder of the evening is free to relax by the pool, enjoy the beach, or simply unwind after the long journey. Dinner is on your own this evening. The resort offers several dining options, or you may explore restaurants in the surrounding area.

Daily Summary:
Accommodation: Silk Sense Hoi An River Resort
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9: Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary & Hoi An Ancient Town, Wednesday, July 8th, 2026

Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary & Hoi An Ancient Town

We make an early start this morning, leaving the resort with a packed breakfast as we head toward Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary, one of the most important archaeological sites linked to the Champa kingdom. As we walk among the clusters of red-brick temples, you’ll learn how the Champa people adapted Hindu religious traditions and developed distinctive architectural techniques during the ancient historical period. We return to the resort late morning for lunch and time to rest.

Lunch will be on your own, with options available at the resort or surrounding beach cafés. In the afternoon, we head into Hoi An Ancient Town for a guided exploration of its historic streets and heritage sites to experience the flavours of bygone times in present-day Vietnam. As a major trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries, Hoi An developed a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences that is still visible in its wooden merchant houses, assembly halls, and the iconic covered bridge. We also visit the local museum for insight into the town’s trading history and its cultural links across Asia. Evening: We take a short lantern boat ride along the Thu Bon River, a gentle experience that offers a different perspective of Hoi An as its riverside streets begin to glow with lantern light. This is followed by dinner at a local spot in the Ancient Town known for its well-prepared regional dishes, including cao lầu, a distinctive noodle dish unique to Hoi An.

Daily Summary:
Accommodation: Silk Sense Hoi An River Resort
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 10: Hoi An to Siem Reap, Thursday, July 9th, 2026

Hoi An to Siem Reap

After breakfast, we make a short visit to the Cam Thanh area for a traditional basket-boat experience along the coconut-lined waterways. This gentle ride provides a look at the small fishing communities that have lived in this area for generations. We then return to the resort to freshen up and check out. We then transfer to Da Nang Airport for our flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Lunch is on your own at the airport before boarding the flight. On arrival, we settle into a boutique hotel and head into Siem Reap’s central district to explore the night markets and surrounding streets. This area offers a lively introduction to Cambodian street life, with a mix of cafés, shops, and outdoor stalls. We begin the late evening with an introductory talk on Cambodia from ancient times. We will dine at a local Khmer restaurant in Pub Street that serves classic dishes such as amok and grilled meats with local herbs.

Daily Summary:
Accommodation: Shinta Mani Angkor
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 11: Angkor Complex, Friday, July 10th, 2026

Angkor Complex

We begin the day at Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s most iconic temple complex. As we explore the main galleries and towers, you’ll see how Khmer cosmology, Hindu epics, and symbolic architectural planning come together in one of the region’s most significant historical sites. The visit also offers a sense of how the temple’s role shifted over time as Cambodia moved from Hindu to Buddhist traditions. We then continue into the Angkor Thom complex, the former capital of the Khmer Empire. Here we visit Bayon Temple, known for its distinctive stone faces and detailed reliefs, and walk through nearby terraces and ceremonial areas that formed the heart of the ancient city. We return to the hotel around midday for a relaxed afternoon and lunch on your own. We gather in the evening for a traditional Apsara dance performance paired with dinner. Rooted in classical court traditions, Apsara dance is characterized by graceful movements and intricate hand gestures, offering an engaging introduction to Cambodia’s performing arts. A sit-down dinner is served during the performance and features a variety of contemporary Cambodian dishes mixed with some international options.

Daily Summary:
Accommodation: Shinta Mani Angkor
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 12: Rural Craft Traditions, Saturday, July 11th, 2026

Rural Craft Traditions

After breakfast, we begin the day with a visit to Ta Prohm, one of the most atmospheric temples in the Angkor region. Unlike other restored sites, Ta Prohm has been left largely in its natural state, with silk-cotton and fig tree roots weaving through the stone walls and towers. The setting offers a striking look at how nature and architecture coexist and provides insight into the conservation approach used to preserve the temple’s “lost-in-the-jungle” character. We spend the morning walking through its corridors, courtyards, and shaded passageways before driving to a local restaurant for lunch. Lunch is arranged at a local Cambodian restaurant where we’ll enjoy more regional dishes including light coconut curries or fish Amok - a signature preparation in the part of the country.

In the afternoon, we visit a traditional palm sugar village to learn how palm products are harvested and prepared using age-old methods. You will have a chance to meet artisans who specialize in transforming palm sugar into various handmade products used in local cooking and crafts. This visit highlights the traditional techniques still used in many Cambodian rural villages and shows how palm products remain an important part of daily life for local households. We will also be introduced to one of the most painful chapters of Cambodian history - the genocide. We return to the hotel in the late afternoon for some time to rest or enjoy the property’s facilities. This wonderful trip together concludes with a relaxed farewell dinner at the hotel, offering time to reflect on the journey and enjoy one final evening together.

Daily Summary:
Accommodation: Shinta Mani Angkor
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 13: Siem Reap (Departure), Sunday, July 12th, 2026

We enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before checking out and transferring to the airport. The morning is kept flexible to accomodate multiple traveler’s flight schedules, and you may choose to take a slow start to the day, go for a short walk around the property, or simply spend time packing and preparing for the journey home.

Daily Summary:
Accommodation: N/A (Departure Day)
Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation

PRICE

• Price: $7990.00 per person (shared room)

• Single Supplement: +$1200.00

• Group size is 8 - 12 participants. A deposit of 40% is required to reserve your place.

Why Travel with Kiki and Mahesh

Commitment
Planning a trip can be daunting. We want you to relax and know that we are committed to ensuring that you will enjoy your journey. We work hard to create trips that have the feel of casual travel with friends rather than formal tours and plan itineraries that match your interests and fit your budget. 

Responsible Travel
Global travel can only succeed if communities benefit from tourism. We hire local operators who value sustainable travel and support their communities.

Inspiring Through Travel
We specialize in journeys of discovery and inspiration. Our adventures are all about local culture—the people, history, art, architecture, and food. Our trips showcase a rich source of inspirational people, landscapes, and cityscapes. Traveling is the time for discovery, exploration, and adventure.

Trusted Support
In case of an emergency, all our guides are licensed and trained to handle situations that may arise. We are always with you to assist in any way we can to make your trip safe and memorable.

Disclaimer
Payments: As soon as we receive your down payment, we will confirm your reservations and at this point, all change and cancellation policies will be in effect. KikiNetwork Travel will send you a finalized itinerary which will contain all necessary information including confirmation numbers, addresses, and phone numbers. We must receive 40% of the trip cost when you register for the trip. The full cost of the trip must be paid 90 days before the start date of the trip.

Forms of Payment: We accept ACH transfers (1% fee and .30) and credit cards (American Express, Visa, and MasterCard). There is a 2.9 processing fee for MC and Visa credit cards, and American Express incurs a 3.9% fee. If you pay by check there is no additional fee. You will need to mail the check to Kiki Keating, PO Box 223, Georges Mills, NH 03751.

Airfare/Visas/Special Permits: You are responsible for your flight to the place of the trip departure. I am happy to advise and recommend the best flights for you. Please email me at kiki@kikinetwork.com for more details.

Food: All meals as listed. No alcohol is included unless stated in the itinerary.

I will inform you of any visa needs, and you must obtain any necessary visas and travel permits for all countries that you will be traveling to or transiting through. Visa and entry requirements may vary depending on your nationality, the length of your stay, and the purpose of your visit. Please make certain that your passport is valid for at least six months after the latest expected end date of your planned trip, as some countries will not allow entry if your passport expires sooner.

Insurance is required for any KikiNetwork Travel trip. KikiNetwork Travel requires an insurance plan with 100% of trip cost insured, $150,000 of emergency assistance and transportation, and a minimum of $50,000 medical evacuation coverage. I am happy to work with you to recommend one of my recommended insurance coverage companies. Please call me directly at 603-858-2733 to discuss and ask questions about travel insurance coverage.

Health and Safety Matters: Please visit your local hospital Travel Clinic. Your doctor will let you know what, if any, vaccinations or other health or safety precautions are necessary or recommended for your destinations. We are not physicians, and nothing we say should be interpreted as professional medical advice. Government health advisories can be found on the internet at: http://www.cdc.gov and http://www.who.int

Cancellations: In addition to any cancellation penalties related to trip components we are not responsible for (e.g. permits, airfare, travel insurance, etc.), the following fees will apply:

Cancellation penalties apply as soon as we have received payment. Trip cancellation and interruption insurance is required.

Responsibility/Release and Assumption of Risk: By paying and signing up for a KikiNetwork Travel trip you are agreeing to the following statement; I understand and am aware that during the travel itinerary in which I will participate under the arrangements of KikiNetwork Travel and its agents or subcontractors, certain risks and dangers may arise, including but not limited to the hazards of traveling in unsafe areas or under unsafe conditions, the dangers of civil disturbance and war, unplanned forces of nature, or disease. In consideration of, and as part of the payment for, the right to participate in such travel itineraries, I have and do hereby expressly assume all of the above risks. The terms of this agreement shall serve as a release and express assumption of risk for myself, my heirs, assignees, administrators, executors, and all members of my family, including any minors accompanying me. I have read and fully understand the provisions and the legal consequences of this Release and Assumption of Risk and I hereby agree to all its conditions, especially noting and agreeing to the portion of this provision that releases the Company and its agents, employees, officers, associates, and subcontractors, to the extent permitted by law, from liability for the negligent or reckless acts or omissions of the Company’s affiliated companies or subcontractors.