27-Day Thailand & Vietnam Adventure Tour for Teens

Course Description: 27-Day Thailand & Vietnam Adventure Tour for Teens

Thailand & Vietnam Adventure Tour for Teens �*

Journey through two stunning Southeast Asian countries filled with history, culture, and adventure. On this teen travel program, you’ll explore bustling markets in Bangkok and Hanoi, zip-line through jungles, care for elephants in Chiang Mai, rock climb in Railay Bay, cruise among the limestone islands of Ha Long Bay, and swim and snorkel in turquoise waters. You’ll also learn to cook Vietnamese cuisine in Hoi An, make traditional silk lanterns, and explore important historical sites like the Cu Chi Tunnels. Traveling in a small, tight-knit group, you’ll share unforgettable experiences, build confidence, and make lasting friendships.

Please note: A limited number of participants depart on Day 15, while the 27-day group continues on to Vietnam.

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Program Highlights ✨

• Learn to feed and care for elephants while supporting conservation efforts.

• Kayak and swim in the turquoise waters of Ha Long Bay.

• Rock climb in Railay Bay.

• Cook with a professional chef and prepare Vietnamese cuisine.

• Snorkel in Koh Phi Phi.

• Zip-line through the jungles of Chiang Mai.

• Explore the vast Cu Chi Tunnel network.

• Make traditional silk lanterns.

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Itinerary �*

Day 1 – Flight to Bangkok, Thailand

Fly overnight to Bangkok. Upon arrival, meet your leaders and group, then begin orientation with icebreakers and “get to know you” activities.

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Days 2–3 – Bangkok, Thailand

Receive a warm welcome and an introduction to Thai customs. Explore Bangkok by Skytrain, canal boat, tuk-tuk, and longtail boat. Start with a food walking tour that introduces you to classic Thai dishes and flavors. Visit major landmarks including Erawan Shrine, Golden Mount, the Grand Palace, and Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha), while experiencing the hospitality and warmth of the local people.

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Days 4–8 – Chiang Mai, Thailand

Head north to Chiang Mai for adventure and culture. Experience a multi-platform zip-line through one of the region’s oldest forests. Spend half a day up close with Thailand’s national animal as you learn about elephants and their care in an ethical setting. Explore the Old City and its temples, including Doi Suthep, after a hands-on Muay Thai kickboxing lesson—the country’s national sport.

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Days 9–12 – Krabi & Koh Phi Phi, Thailand

Travel to Krabi’s emerald waters and dramatic limestone cliffs. At Chicken Island, choose to snorkel or SCUBA dive among colorful fish, coral reefs, and sea turtles. In Railay Bay, rock climb with professional instructors and take in sweeping ocean views from the cliffs. Enjoy another snorkeling session at Koh Phi Phi and relax on the beaches of Railay Bay.

Note: For safety reasons, SCUBA operators restrict participation for certain medical conditions.

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Days 13–14 – Bangkok, Thailand

Fly back to Bangkok for your final days in Thailand. Explore markets and canal communities and enjoy a farewell banquet dinner to celebrate those departing after the Thailand portion (Day 15).

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Days 15–16 – Hanoi, Vietnam

Fly to Hanoi, Vietnam’s historic capital, where layers of French, Chinese, and Vietnamese influence blend. Visit the Old Quarter, the Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda, and the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh. Learn about the Vietnam War era with a visit to the “Hanoi Hilton” (POW prison). Take a day trip to Ninh Binh, known as “Ha Long Bay on Land,” and admire limestone mountains and rice paddies in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Days 17–18 – Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Discover Vietnam’s most famous natural wonder, Ha Long Bay. Cruise among towering limestone islands in emerald waters, kayak and swim in tranquil coves, and explore Sung Sot Cave with its impressive stalagmites and stalactites. End your day with a cable car ride for panoramic views of the bay.

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Days 19–21 – Hoi An, Vietnam

Travel to Hoi An, a beautifully preserved former trading port. Explore its lantern-lit streets, historic buildings, and riverside charm. Take a Vietnamese cooking class at The Morning Glory Cooking School and learn the traditional art of silk lantern making. Ride in a round coracle boat through mangroves and waterways, then relax with friends on An Bang Beach overlooking the South China Sea.

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Days 22–24 – Nha Trang, Vietnam

Fly to Nha Trang, a modern resort city framed by mountains and long sandy beaches. Snorkel and SCUBA in clear coastal waters, relax at the Thap Ba Hot Springs, stroll the seaside promenade, and shop at the night market.

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Days 25–26 – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), Vietnam’s largest city. See French colonial-style architecture, explore bustling markets and alleyways, and learn about the Vietnam War as you tour the Cu Chi Tunnels, which played a vital role in wartime strategy. Shop for final souvenirs at Binh Tay Market and take in the blend of modern skyscrapers and historic temples.

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Day 27 – Return Flight Home From Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Say goodbye to your friends and leaders, then fly home with unforgettable memories from Thailand and Vietnam.

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Accommodations �*

Bangkok, Thailand – I Residence Hotel

Features a rooftop restaurant, swimming pool, sundeck, and central location, ideal for exploring Bangkok at the beginning and end of the Thailand portion.

Chiang Mai, Thailand – Ana Park Hotel

A relaxing, centrally located property with a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and tasty breakfast options.

Krabi, Thailand – Peace Laguna Resort

A resort-style property with a tropical feel, featuring a pool, spa, open-air lobby, free Wi-Fi, and lush surroundings.

Hanoi, Vietnam – Larosa Hotel

Comfortable, air-conditioned rooms with Wi-Fi, providing a welcoming start to your time in Vietnam.

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam – City Bay Palace Hotel

Centrally located near the waterfront, with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a rooftop terrace perfect for group hangouts.

Hoi An, Vietnam – Gem Riverside Hoi An Hotel

Set near shops and restaurants and a short walk from the beach, this hotel offers Wi-Fi and a beautiful pool.

Nha Trang, Vietnam – Edele Hotel

Located close to the beach with Wi-Fi, a rooftop pool, sundeck, and city views.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – The Happy Life Green Hotel

Centrally located in District 1, with air-conditioned rooms and Wi-Fi for a comfortable end to your journey.

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What It’s Like �*

Expect a smaller, tight-knit travel group with a strong sense of community. The program is active and adventurous but also deeply cultural, giving teens the chance to step outside their comfort zones, try new things, and see life from a different perspective.

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Key Details �*

Accommodations:

Basic hotels throughout Thailand and Vietnam.

Meals:

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.

Activities:

All recreation and activities listed in the itinerary.

Transportation:

Air-conditioned, professionally driven vehicles.

Flights:

Chaperoned international group flights at the start and end of the program; all program-related airfare is organized for you.

Internal Flights & Extra Fees:

An additional $1,250 USD internal flight fee covers flights between:

• Bangkok → Chiang Mai

• Chiang Mai → Krabi

• Krabi → Bangkok

• Bangkok → Hanoi

• Hai Phong → Hoi An

• Hoi An → Nha Trang

Group Sizes:

Up to 26 participants.

Dietary Options:

Most dietary preferences and allergies can be accommodated, including vegetarian, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and kosher-style.

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Program Specifics ✈️

Flight to Bangkok, Thailand:

The program begins with a chaperoned group flight from New York or Los Angeles to Bangkok. Leaders meet participants at the airport and stay with them from check-in onward. Travelers from outside these cities join the group by connecting into one of these gateways. Participants from outside North America may inquire about alternative arrangements.

Return Flight From Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam:

A chaperoned return flight to New York is offered. Participants may join that flight and then connect onward, or fly from Ho Chi Minh City directly to their home city with leader support at check-in and departure.

Vietnam Entry Regulations:

A Vietnamese e-visa is required and must be obtained before arrival in Hanoi. A valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond the return date and at least one blank page is required. For American and Canadian citizens, the e-visa can be arranged on the traveler’s behalf through local partners.

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Meals & New Cuisines 🍽️

Meals are an important and exciting part of this journey. In Thailand and Vietnam you’ll enjoy flavorful noodle dishes, curries, fresh fruits and vegetables, and a wide variety of local specialties. While there are many traditional options, familiar North American-style dishes are also available on menus. The program is experienced in accommodating picky eaters and special dietary requests, including vegetarian, allergies, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and kosher-style preferences.

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Laundry / Drinking Water / Vaccinations �*

Drinking Water:

Tap water is not recommended. Large containers of clean drinking water are provided so participants can refill their reusable bottles throughout the trip.

Vaccinations:

Participants should follow CDC guidance and consult their physician regarding recommended vaccines and medications for travel to Thailand and Vietnam. Updated guidance is provided in March or upon enrollment.

Laundry:

You’ll only need about one week’s worth of clothing. Once a week, you can drop off laundry at a local wash-and-fold service and pick it up clean, folded, and ready to go.

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What’s Included / Not Included ✅

Included:

• All lodging

• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily

• All listed activities and recreation

• Airport transfers during designated times

• Taxes and gratuities

Not Included:

• Transportation to and from the program

• Internal flight fee

• Personal spending money (snacks, souvenirs, laundry)

• Optional travel insurance