Trip Cost:

ASK ABOUT OUR ELEPHANT AMBASSADOR PROGRAM in Chiang Mai, Thailand from January 12-19, 2025 (an incredible opportunity to join our Founder, Laura Stegeman, for a week volunteering with elephants and other rescue animals at Elephant Nature Park).

Early Bird Pricing for Serenity in Siam 7 is available at $75 off the tour price if confirmed with a non refundable deposit of $350 by June 1, 2024.

Serenity in Siam 7 Trip Cost: From $3,475* (not including airfare). We will have a English speaking Lao guide along on the journey for the Laos portion with our trip leader, Laura, who will take over as trip guide/leader for the Thailand portion.

*Price is based on double occupancy for couples sharing a bed. Single supplements for travelers coming solo or Twin Share supplements for travelers wishing to share a room with two beds but will have a forced single for two nights at a five star property that only has King Sized Beds.

• Single supplement for solo travelers: $1,110
• Required single supplement for twin share (two beds) at Vang Vieng: $215
• Add-on night Bangkok on January 31: $75 (per room)
• Add-on Transfer each way Bangkok International Airport to Hotel for post-trip stays: $28 (for 1 or 2)

++Visas are required for Laos (we will assist you in obtaining an eVisa

++Upgrades, hotel add-ons, etc are available upon request and will be offered at booking.

 

Hotel upgrades available:

• Vang Vieng               Junior Villa:                  $65/room/night
• Koh Kood Deluxe     Seaview:                       $60/room/night
                                     Beachfront Villa:         $155/room/night

Airfare conditions:

• One way/Economy class incl. 20 Kgs baggage allowance
• All airfares are subject to availability at time of booking
• All airfares are not guaranteed until purchased and the e-tickets have been issued.
• Airfares may change without notice prior to e-ticket issuance.
• Airfares is non-refundable after ticket issuance
• Airfares are an estimate only and no fares are guaranteed as they are booked directly with the airlines

Travel Insurance is mandatory. A non refundable $350 deposit is due at booking. Flight assistance via a Zoom call is complimentary for your across the water (USA-Asia Round-trip) flights. We can provide flight numbers for the flight from Laos to USA and assist you over the phone if needed.

 

Trip minimum is SIX travelers.

Day 1: Sunday, January 19, 2025 / Luang Prabang

Sa baidee! Welcome to Laos!

We begin our journey in the former Royal Capital of Luang Prabang with its enchanting streets where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Asia’s most picturesque old cities– rich culture, vibrant markets, and serene temples. You’ll fall in love with the rhythmic chants of monks and the aroma of street food that will tantalize your senses. THIS is the HEART of Laos.

Included Activities:

• Arrival Transfer
• Welcome Meeting at 6pm followed by Dinner

Accommodation:

My Dream Boutique Resort – Deluxe room or similar

 

Day 2: Monday, January 20 / Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang was once the heart and soul of the ancient Lao Kingdom (Lan Xang) and was designated a World Heritage site in 1995. We’ll rise with the sun this morning to participate in the traditional alms giving ceremony. View the procession of saffron-robed monks on their daily outing collecting food offered by devotees, a practice that dates back centuries. The offerings must be collected early, as the monks cannot eat anything after midday. By giving food to a monk, it is believed you ‘het bon’ (make merit) which will be carried over into the next life. Your Guide will explain the do’s and don’ts and help you to take part in this alms giving tradition. After that, you’ll have free time for the remainder of the morning where you can walk around the world heritage city or chill at a local coffee shop and let time pass slowly as the locals do (several Intrepid Travel Optional Activities are also available, see below).

Later, we’ll visit Phousi Hill, also called Phousi Mountain, which is atop a small mountain in the center of Luang Prabang, located on the peninsula between the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers. We’ll climb up to Wat Tham Phousi, a small cave Temple in the middle of mountain. It features a statue of Buddha and another of a famous Reclining Buddha.

We will continue to Wat Xieng Thong, “Monastery of the Golden City”, the religious center of Luang Prabang and one of the highest symbols of Buddhism in Laos. The low sweeping double-tiered roof (the front portico actually forms a third tier and is an exceptionally fine example of the classic Luang Prabang style.

Optional Morning Activities:

As optional for free time in the morning, take a boat trip to visit Pak Ou Caves. An important religious site overlooking the river at the junction of the Mekong and Ou Rivers, the revered Pak Ou Caves consist of two sacred limestone caverns filled with thousands of Buddha statues and images of all styles and sizes, brought by devoted villagers over the centuries.

Or, visit Ock Pop Tok, a social co-op dealing in local weaving and handicrafts. Projected as a Living Crafts Centre for everybody to discover Laos Through Textiles with a mix of creative, meaningful, and fun experiences. The mission is to support Lao textile traditions, fair trade, women’s empowerment, and environmental sustainability and appeals to travelers in search for conscientious, eco-friendly ways to experience travel.

Yet another option is to visit TACE, The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre, also a local social enterprise, founded in 2006 to promote the appreciation and transmission of Laos’ ethnic cultural heritage and livelihoods based on traditional skills. TAEC’s work includes school outreach activities, craft workshops, lectures, research, and a non-profit foundation in the USA.

Included Activities:

• Breakfast
• Alms Offering
• Phousi Mountain Visit
• Wat Xieng Thong Visit

Accommodation:

My Dream Boutique Resort – Deluxe room or similar

 

Day 3: Tuesday, January 21 / Luang Prabang

This morning we’ll head south from town to the beautiful Kuang Si Falls, alternatively known as the Tat Kuang Si Waterfalls, considered to be the most beautiful waterfall in Laos. A picturesque, multi-level cascade that offers fantastically blue pools is the perfect spot or a dip. Back in Luang Prabang we’ll have time to rest before our evening visit to the very popular night market!

Included Activities:

• Kuang Si Waterfalls Visit

Accommodation:

My Dream Boutique Resort – Deluxe room or similar

 

Day 4: Wednesday, January 22 / Luang Prabang – Vang Vieng

This morning we’ll board a high-speed train and travel to Vang Vieng (approximately 1 hour). Situated on the Nam Song River, Vang Vieng is surrounded by towering limestone karsts and is a great place to enjoy being out in and surrounded by nature. After checking in to the hotel, you’ll have some free time to wander around our amazing resort and take in the stunning scenery.

Note: Sharp objects such as pocketknives as well as spray bottles are not permitted on high-speed trains in Laos, including aerosols and mists. We recommend bringing sunscreens and mosquito repellents with no spray capabilities on this trip, as sprays will get confiscated at the station.

Accommodation:

ViengTara VangVieng Resort (King Bed Only) or similar (all twin share guests will be accommodated in their own room at this stop)

Included:

• Train Fare to Vang Vieng

Accommodation:

ViengTara VangVieng Resort (King Bed Only) – or similar

 

Day 5: Thursday, January 23 / Vang Vieng

This morning we’ll enjoy an excursion by bike exploring Vang Vieng. We’ll cycle past verdant rice paddies, traditional Laotian houses, and along the scenic riverfront for a truly immersive experience. We’ll visit a local temple and market for a truer glimpse at how the locals live.

In the afternoon, there’s plenty of optional activities to choose from in and around Vang Vieng, which known as an adventure destination thanks to its unique and varied surrounding topography. The area is renowned for its caves, many of which are easily accessible from the town. Perhaps the most famous is the cave of Tham Chang, a beautiful cavern fed by a natural spring making it a perfect spot for a refreshing swim. Hike the trails to nearby lookout points, join a day trip to go kayaking on the river, or visit an organic mulberry farm just outside town and enjoy a meal there. You may also wish to go shopping in town or relax at the resort. We’ll have a group dinner this evening at a riverside restaurant.

Included Activities:

• Cycling around Vang Vieng City – Half Day

Optional Activities:

• Kayaking Vang Vieng – USD 35 / person
• Hot Air Balloon — $175USD /person (5am, 5pm for 35 minutes)

Accommodations:

ViengTara VangVieng Resort (King Bed Only) – or similar

 

Day 6: Friday, January 24 / Vang Vieng – Vientiane

Today we’ll depart Vang Vieng on a high-speed train headed to Vientiane, possibly Asia’s most laidback capital, where everything seems to be conducted at a relaxed pace. Vientiane has a wealth of cultural delights to discover on foot, or for the less energetic, by a “jumbo” (tuk-tuk). Faded colonial mansions, tree-lined boulevards and old temples create an atmosphere of timelessness, particularly in the older part of town along the Mekong River. We’ll check into our hotel first then having orientation walk around Vientiane’s city center.

Included Activities:

• Vientiane Orientation Walk

Accommodations:

Salana Boutique Hotel – Deluxe Room or similar

 

Day 7: Saturday, January 25 / Vientiane

Today we have a full day with exciting sights to see. We’ll visit Buddha Park with its sculpture garden, home to an impressive collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures within Xieng Khuan, a park-like setting on the banks of the Mekong river just outside Vientiane. We’ll visit Pha That Luang Vientiane with a history that likely dates back to the third century AD and its the 148-foot-high (45-meter-high) golden stupa, Laos’ most important religious monument. The large golden stupa in Vientiane is believed to enshrine a breast bone of the Buddha. This evening, we’ll hit the night market with local street food offerings and plenty of shopping.

Included Activities:

• Buddha Park Visit
• Pha That Luang and Reclining Buddha
• Vientiane Night Market Dinner

Day 8: Sunday, January 26 / Vientiane-Bangkok

Today we say goodbye to Laos and travel to Bangkok, Thailand with a brief stop in the Khaosan Road, Old Bangkok for shopping massages before heading to Koh Kood for the second part of Serenity of Siam 7 (some will opt to travel home and others may join us in Bangkok). International Flight is not included but we will assist you in booking it. No visa is required for Thailand for US Citizens.

Included Activities:

• Departure Transfer to Vientiane Airport
• Arrival Transfer Bangkok

Accommodation:

Tinidee Trendy Bangkok – Deluxe Room or similar (This hotel has lots of history and significance as it was the first international hotel in the area and because a mecca for backpackers and foreign correspondents from the 1950-s up until its rebranding in 2015.)

Note: If you are extending your trip or need an additional post-trip hotel in Bangkok, we can book if for you at Tinidee and you may leave your large luggage here for a minimal charge.

 

Day 9: Monday, January 27 / Bangkok-Koh Kood via Trat

For those continuing on to Koh Kood, you will depart early by private air con mini van for the five hour journey to Laem Sok Pier, Trat. From there you’ll board a ferry boat for Koh Kood. Alternatively, you may opt to take a flight (details upon request).

Koh Kood, also known as Koh Kut, has been named one of the most beautiful islands in Southeast Asia and is known for its stunning beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and its relaxing vibe. Most travelers never get to Koh Kood, so you are in for a spectacular treat!

Flight Option: Domestic flight is not included in the package but is available for a low round-trip fare (outbound would be on Bangkok Airways (PG305) Depart at 12:40 arrival at 13:40.

Upon arrival transfer by private minivan to Leam Sok pier for board ferry boat to Koh Kood Island.

Accommodations:

Tolani Resort Koh Kood – Superior Seaview Villa or similar

 

Days 10-12, Tuesday – Thursday, January 28-30

Our time on Koh Kood will be at your leisure, however our Trip Leader, Laura, will be available for suggestions, questions, and assistance in booking local tours like snorkeling, diving, and island excursions.

Tolani Resort Koh Kood – Superior Seaview Villa or similar

 

Day 13, Friday – January 31

Our trip ends in Bangkok at 6pm after traveling back either by included minivan or optional flight from Trat. If your flight home departs after 9pm, you will be dropped at Bangkok International Airport. If your flight departs the following day, you will need an additional hotel night in Bangkok and that can be booked for you by our team.

Optional Accommodation (for those departing February 1):

Tinidee Trendy Bangkok – Deluxe Room or similar

Safe travels home everyone!

 

THE FINE PRINT:

Deposits, Final Payments, Refunds and Cancellations
+ All tours require a $350 deposit to secure your spot. Custom/private tours may require a higher deposit amount and you will be told this at time of inquiry.
+ All deposits for 2025 trips are non-refundable but are transferrable to other GROUP TRIPS if you notify us in writing 65 days prior to trip departure. Once you transfer a deposit to another trip, you cannot transfer it again. This
offer is valid for one year from trip departure date.
+ Final Payment: Due 60 days prior to tour start date.
+ Final Payment is fully refundable if WE need to cancel any time.
+ Final Payment is partially refundable if YOU cancel more than 45 days prior to the start of trip.  Partial refund is 50% of the final balance you paid. 
+ There are no refunds on any cancellations 45 days or less before trip start date. 
+ Trips require a minimum number of travelers to depart (each trip has a different minimum number). 
+ If the trip does not reach the minimum number of travelers 60 days prior to the start date, we may cancel the trip.
+ In the event that WE need to cancel the tour, your final payment is fully refundable.

 

By submitting a non refundable deposit for a trip with Get Out There Tours+Travel, you hereby acknowledge and accept that participation in activities organized and 
facilitated by Get Out There Tours and Travel LLC involves certain inherent risks and dangers, including but not limited to accidents, injuries, and unforeseen events.

In consideration of being allowed to participate in such activities, I voluntarily assume all risks and hazards associated with the activities, including travel to and 
from the destinations.

I hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless Get Out There Tours and Travel LLC, its agents, employees, and affiliates from any and all liability, claims, demands, actions, or causes of action arising out of or related to any loss, damage, or injury, including death, that may be sustained by me or any property belonging to me

during the course of participating in these activities.

I understand and acknowledge that this waiver and release of liability shall be binding upon my heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns, and that I am waiving any right I or my representatives may have to bring any legal action or assert a claim for negligence or any other cause of action against Get Out There Tours and Travel LLC. I hearby release Get Out There Tours and Travel LLC of 
liability, fully understanding all of these terms and voluntarily agree to its provisions.