Indochina's Heritage Sites by Air: From Bangkok to Bagan, Thailand (11 days)

Arrive in Thailand’s bustling metropolis - Bangkok. You fly in style on your own private jet - skipping the hustle and bustle of the long airport lines, along with a massive headache. Here you have the day to explore. One of the stunning sites includes the Wat Suthat that is not only covered in remarkable wall paintings, but also vital to Buddhist culture. Take a boat trip down the Chao Phraya river to see the inner workings of the city, and visit the National Museum. Pak Khlong Talat is a fascinating fresh fruit and vegetable market to visit. Come see how the locals shop and view colorful orchids and bright, ripe fruit for the trying. Spend the night sleeping in luxury at either the Peninsula or The Siam.

 Step aboard to fly in comfort, convenience and style as you descend upon Sukhothai, a beautiful northern town considered by the locals to be the cradle of Thailand. The name translates directly to “Dawn of Happiness.” The Kingdom once reigned over present-day Myanmar, Luang Prabang and Laos. In this well-preserved ancient city, there are several stunning temples, stupas and elegant elephant stone carvings. Spend the evening relaxing at either the Sukhothai Heritage Resort or the Legendha Sukhothai.

 The ancient town of Sukhothai was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. The city is perfect for strolling with timeless city gates, walls, moats dams, ditches, canals and ponds. The head of the site will give you a private tour. Visit the Ramkhamhaeng National Museum, where the curator will teach you the Thai ways of life. Marvel at the beautiful ancient sculptures and other antiquities on display. Return to your hotel to relax this evening.

Hop aboard your private air travel as you jetset to Luang Prabang. Flying gives you extra touring time, so you won’t feel as if you spent your whole trip in transit. Luang Prabang is a charming ancient city in the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia - Laos. Luang Prabang was once the capital of the area. The city overlooks the beautiful Bolaven Plateau and is surrounded by majestic mountains. Settle in for the night at either Amantaka or Hotel De La Paix.

Rise early to catch the monks on their way to the monastery. They collect food donations from locals along the way. Next, take a ride down the Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves, where you will find more than 10,000 small Buddha statues. The damaged Buddhas are sent here, as it’s considered bad luck to keep a damaged Buddha - and also to destroy a Buddha. That evening, you have the option to enjoy a Laos specialty cooking class. Return to your hotel for the night.

Step aboard the aircraft as you fly on your own time to Hue in Vietnam. The city was the capital when emperors strolled the streets. Take a leisurely ride down the Perfume River - you will see eight royal tombs in near-perfect preserved condition. Dine like royalty at the Tinh Gia Vien - an old Hue-style garden villa tucked away on a side street. Check into the La Residence to relax in style in the ancient city’s center.

Once known as the “Forbidden Purple City,” Hue is full of mysteries just waiting to be discovered. The city was originally only inhabited by emperors, their concubines and members of the household. Get to know more about the city’s fascinating history at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The 1845 wooden palace contains house relics and fine art from the Nguyen Dynasty. Next, take a tour of the hallmark of Hue - the Citadel. The massive throne was built in 1804 and is protected by a 100-foot wide moat. After an authentic dinner, retire to your hotel room to unwind.

Sit back in comfort as you fly from Hue to the Kingdom of Cambodia. Cambodia is a tourist Mecca for its friendly locals, fascinating history and what is rumored to be one of the most impressive ancient temples in existence - Angkor Wat. The temple is a protected UNESCO site. An incredible spiritual site and architectural feat, many travelers wander through the ancient city for more than just one day. Sleep easy at either Amansara, Raffles or the Park Hyatt.

Jetset to Bagan after a short immigration stop in Mandalay. Myanmar has only recently been welcoming travelers. You are far off the beaten path as you visit the ancient capital that is experiencing rapid change. Visit the city’s architectural wonders, such as the near thousand-year-old Ananda Temple and the Shwezigon Pagoda. Check into your hotel in Bagan - we recommend the Aureum Palace Hotel, where you’ll sleep like royalty.

Rise early for the experience of a lifetime: a sunrise hot-air balloon ride. This is the perfect spot to absorb unrivaled views of the lush countryside. Spend the rest of the day visiting the local monasteries, shrines and gold stupas. Climb 777 stairs to reach the top of volcanic Mt. Popa - it’s well worth it for the view and landmarks you find at the top. Return to your hotel to relax after an active day of sightseeing.

Return to Thailand’s pulsing capital. Squeeze in a visit to the Floating Markets of Damnoen Saduak, if you arrive early enough in the city. This is the perfect place to enjoy fresh fruit and Thai cuisine. Stock up on local goods, before preparing for your transit home. You’ll be transferred to the airport in time for your onward travels.