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Vietnamese Hmong walking in Rice Field, Vietnam

Top 10 Experiences in Indochina

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By Lucy Weatherston


Indochina encompasses a blend of old and new, where the magic of the ancient East meets a thriving modern society. This exciting region offers something for everyone, from emerald hued rice terraces and misty mountains to majestic temples and bustling markets.

Below are just some of our favourite experiences in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.

1. Discover the Temples of Angkor

Bound to make your jaw drop, the spectacular Temples of Angkor have hundreds of temples to explore, from the imposing faces of Bayon to crumbling vine covered temples hidden by jungle. If you’re in this location for a while, I’d recommend getting a multi day pass to truly explore this vast complex, or for those looking for something extra special, a visit at sunrise accompanied with champagne is surely a morning to remember!


 

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

2. Cruise through Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay

Known locally as the Bay of the Descending Dragon, a cruise through the jutting limestone peaks of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay is a must during any visit to Vietnam. Discover the caves and islands that dot the bay, explore villages by bike and kayak through the turquoise waters. Whether bathed in sunlight or atmospherically cloaked in mist, this journey will be unforgettable.


 

Dreamy sunset landscape Halong Bay, Vietnam view from adove. This is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, a beautiful natural wonder in northern Vietnam

3. Feast on Indochina’s diverse cuisine

From sizzling street food stalls to elegant fine dining, the dishes you eat will most certainly be a highlight of your holiday. The cuisine in each of these countries have strongly influenced each other yet boast their own unique flavours and traditions. Tuck into aromatic pho (noodle soup) and tasty banh mi (a Vietnamese take on a French baguette sandwich) in Vietnam, a spicy salad or sai gok (Lao sausage) in Laos, and delicious coconut fish curries and hearty noodle soups in Cambodia.


 

Spring roll, Vietnamese

4. Explore the colourful markets

A cacophony of sounds and colour, the markets here are not to be missed. Immerse yourself in the bustle as you explore the labyrinth of stalls filled with everything you could want to buy (as well as a few things you probably don’t!) and perhaps haggle for a bargain while you’re at it!


 

Vietnamese food vendor on local market

5. Trek the hills of Northern Vietnam

Get away from the crowds and discover the stunning rice terraces, craggy mountains and local hill tribe communities of Northern Vietnam. Trek through this lush, mountainous region to see a different side of this fascinating country, perhaps basing yourself in the popular touristic hub, Sapa or in the smaller province of Ha Giang.


 

Vietnamese Hmong walking in Rice Field, Vietnam

6. Relax on the stunning beaches of Vietnam and Cambodia

From wide stretches of beach with buzzing bars and restaurants to secluded coves and idyllic islands, there is a wide variety to choose from. Try your hand at surfing off Vietnam’s Danang or embrace the white sands of Cambodia’s Koh Rong island! For marine life enthusiasts, the accessible reefs and clear waters offered in Vietnam’s Nha Trang and Phu Quoc are a perfect place to spot tropical fish and wonderful underwater life!


 

Landscape photo of beautiful white sand exotic beach on Koh Rong island in Cambodia

7. Meet elephants in their natural environment

Visit one of the fantastic rescue centres in Cambodia or Laos. Working with the community to help provide a better future for both the elephants and the local people, these centres are doing important work to preserve the declining elephant population in Indochina. Meet these gentle giants and, for something different, perhaps join them on a trek through the jungle!


 

Asian Elephants in a Cambodian jungle

8. Traverse the mighty Mekong

South East Asia’s longest river flows through Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia before reaching Vietnam and splitting into numerous branches in the Mekong Delta. On board a river boat you can explore riverside settlements, floating markets and visit areas that are otherwise impossible to reach, making it a truly memorable way to discover the region’s charms.


 

Slow boats on Mekong River near Pakbeng town in Northern Laos

9. Immerse yourself in rich cultures and traditions

This enchanting region has a profound sense of culture and heritage which is infused in everyday life. Wander through the Angkor temples alongside saffron-robed monks, join the dawn almsgiving in Laos or perhaps take a part in a blessing ceremony to gain a deeper understanding of these important local traditions.


 

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

10. Discover Indochina’s fascinating past

Walk (or crawl!) through history, from the winding Cu Chi tunnels to Hue’s Imperial Citadel. Discover the museums and pagodas of Phnom Penh as well as the many temples scattered throughout the region, there is so much to learn and uncover whilst you are here.


 

Imperial City, Hue, Vietnam

For more inspiration, take a look at our Vietnam Holidays, Cambodia Holidays, and Laos Holidays pages.

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Written by Lucy Weatherston

Lucy is a Content Executive based in our Kensington head office. Lucy has worked at TF since 2023 and has travelled to 22 countries. Her favourite destinations include Australia, New Zealand, Peru and Belize.

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