The Majesty of Cambodia and Laos

After an early breakfast set off to visit Angkor Thom, the spacious walled capital of Jayavarman where you will explore the temple ruins of Bayon, Baphoun and Phimeanakas, the Elephant Terrace and 12th century Terrace of the Leper King. In the afternoon, visit the spectacular Angkor Wat complex. Explore its extraordinary architecture and enjoy the beautiful Khmer architecture and reliefs which adorn this ancient monument. Departing Angkor Wat, travel to Pre Rup, a pyramidal temple surrounded by lush rice paddies. This lesser-known and quieter temple offers visitors a peaceful setting to catch the beautiful evening light and watch the sun set behind the impressive structure. That evening embark on Siem Reap’s ‘Dining for a Cause’ culinary tour where you can enjoy drinks and dinner at four social enterprise restaurants throughout city. (B/D)
Accommodation in Siem Reap: Jaya House River Park (or similar)
Upgrade option: Belmond La Residence d’Angkor
Alternative upgrade option: Raffles Grand d’Angkor

This morning visit the outlying Roluos group of temples which are located away from the main Angkor complex. Over 1,100 years old, the initial sanctuaries were built by Indravarman and his son Yashovarman, however, at a later date the site was to become one of Jayavarman's capitals. The Roluos temples are considered the best preserved of the earliest monuments and are adorned with sculpted human figures and guardian spirits. Enjoy the rest of the day wandering through the craft markets of Siem Reap or relax at the hotel pool. (B)
Accommodation in Siem Reap: Jaya House River Park (or similar)
Upgrade option: Belmond La Residence d’Angkor
Alternative upgrade option: Raffles Grand d’Angkor

After breakfast travel out of the city to the Choeung Ek killing fields and Toul Sleng Museum which recounts the horrors of the notorious Khmer Rouge regime. For lunch, why not opt to stop at Lotus Blanc, a quaint garden restaurant, who support a local organisation who train and teach hospitality skills to underprivileged children in the city. That afternoon explore this riverside city with your guide. Places of interest include the National Museum which houses the world's foremost collection of ancient Khmer archaeological, religious, and artistic artefacts, the French-built Royal Palace complex, the Silver Pagoda and the city's oldest shrine Wat Phnom with its mystics, faith healers and fortune tellers. (B)
Accommodation in Phnom Penh: Palace Gate Hotel (or similar)
Upgrade option: Raffles Hotel Le Royal

Today embark on a day of sightseeing with your guide. Highlights of the Laotian captial include the golden That Luang Stupa, one of the holiest Buddhist monuments in the country, and the superb temples of Wat Phra Keo and Wat Sisaket – the latter being the oldest religious complex in Vientiane. Also visit the Anousavari war monument featuring a European-style arch and traditional Laotian carvings. (B)
Accommodation in Vientiane: Salana Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Upgrade option: Settha Palace Hotel