Vietnam & Cambodia: Noodles & Night Markets

Blaring horns, French colonial buildings, peaceful lakes, and the scent of incense in the air - welcome to historic Hanoi. Meet your fellow travellers and kick things off with a street food tour through the Old Quarter. Our in-the-know Trip Leader will guide us to the best spots for bánh mì, pho, spring rolls, and egg coffee (yes, it's a thing – and it's delicious).

Later, we'll head to Bia Hoi Corner. We might be a mixed bunch, but we're all in it together, so grab a stool, order a cold Bia Hà Noi, and toast to new adventures. Stay: Wanderlust Station Hostel or similar (D)

Ready to get to know this incredible city a little better? We thought so. Join your Trip Leader to explore landmarks like the One Pillar Pagoda, Lenin Park, Northern Gate, Cua Bac Church, B52 Lake, and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. You can always swing back to your favourite sights later, with plenty of time to soak it all in. Then we'll stop at a local bún cha spot for lunch - and no, there really is no such thing as too many spring rolls.

This afternoon is yours to spend as you like. Fancy something different? Hop on a locally guided Vespa tour. History fan? Visit Hoa Lo Prison. Or take in a water puppet show at Thang Long Theatre. You could also wander around Hoan Kiem Lake and find a hidden pho joint for dinner. Stay: Wanderlust Station Hostel or similar (B/L)

Halong Bay: a World Heritage Site, the jewel of Vietnam, and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. However you describe it, this place is truly special. Today we'll take it all in with an overnight junk boat cruise - think swimming in clear turquoise waters, exploring limestone islands, enjoying freshly prepared meals, and watching the sun set over the bay. It's the kind of day you won't forget. *Just a heads up: if you've chosen twin-share accommodation, you might be sharing with an extra trip mate during the cruise – but it's all part of the adventure! Stay: La Regina Classis Cruise or similar (B/L/D)

Rise and shine to a refreshing morning swim and a hearty brunch. Then we set sail back to Hanoi, where you'll have free time to explore at your own pace.

Later, we continue our journey to ancient Hoi An – travelling the traditional way, by overnight train. It's the perfect chance to get some rest and share stories with your fellow travellers. Stay: Overnight train (B)

Hop off the train and say chào to the locals. First up: the Marble Mountains - these striking limestone formations feel like something out of a dream. Lunch is included today, so get ready for more delicious Vietnamese flavours.

Then, prepare to be charmed by the ancient city of Hoi An. This stunner is a patchwork of all the civilisations to leave their imprint here. Expect: rustic Chinese shophouses, multi-coloured French Colonial villas, and one spectacular Japanese bridge. Want help discovering this gem of a place? We got you. There's an optional basket boat ride followed by a delish local cooking class up for grabs – your new gastro skills are bound to impress back home – whether it's a date or just your mates. Or soak up views of the forest and surrounding villages on a sunset paddle boat adventure along the river. It's what dreams are made of. Stay: Hoi An Paradise Hotel or similar (L)

You wanted more free time to explore - here it is. Need some ideas? You could join a full-day private tour of the Ba Na Hills, heading up into the clouds by cable car and visiting highlights like the famous Golden Bridge (worth a Google). Prefer to go your own way? Check out the lively Central Market, have something custom-made by one of Hoi An's legendary tailors, or cycle out to An Bang Beach for laid-back boho magic.

This evening, wander through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An Old Town or join an optional street food tour for a taste of the local favourites. Bring your appetite to make the most of the night. Stay: Hoi An Paradise Hotel or similar (B)

Good news - you've got some free time to soak up Hoi An. Snap a final photo of the Japanese bridge and pick up a silk lantern or two before we hop on the bus to Da Nang this afternoon. Once we arrive, it's a good idea to grab some snacks for tomorrow's breakfast - we'll be boarding the overnight train again as we head to Nha Trang. Stay: Overnight train (B)

Hop off the train in Nha Trang - you're a pro at this by now. Grab breakfast at a local café before heading out to explore this coastal city. Known as Vietnam's diving capital, Nha Trang has plenty to offer both above and below the water. Looking for ideas? Join an optional city tour followed by a visit to one of the famous mud baths, or spend the day relaxing on white-sand beaches with a tour of the nearby islands. Still hungry for more local flavours? There's an optional evening cycle and street food tour too.

Later, why not head out to see what Nha Trang's evenings are all about? You'll be spoilt for choice, with lively beachfront bars, music drifting along the sand, and plenty of spots to sip something cold under the stars. Stay: Liberty Central Nha Trang Hotel or similar

You wanted more time to explore – consider it done. Gather your travel companions and head to Nha Trang Beach for some sunshine, swimming, and serious relaxation; or tackle one of the city's best hiking trails. Your Trip Leader will have plenty of food recommendations when hunger strikes.

Afterward, pack your bags - this afternoon we fly to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). With nearly 9 million people, this city buzzes with energy, colour and non-stop surprises – get ready to dive in and soak it all up. Stay: Phan Anh Backpackers Hostel or similar (B)

This morning, it's time to pull out your history hat - we're off to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels. Surrounded by jungle that was once a stronghold of the Viet Cong, take a guided tour of the area and learn all about how this underground network was used by guerilla fighters during the Vietnam War. Then we'll drop into an organic farm for a lesson in local produce and a traditional homemade lunch.

Back in the city, the evening is up to you. Grab the whole group for dinner at a rooftop restaurant. Get lost in the streets and find yourself along the way. Stay: Phan Anh Backpackers Hostel or similar (B/L)

We're not done with Ho Chi Minh City yet - we'll be back later. Today, it's all about the water as we explore the Mekong Delta, often called the ‘rice bowl' of Vietnam. This network of rivers and swamps feels like something out of The Jungle Book. Want to see markets done differently? We'll visit the traditional floating market in Cai Be, where traders show off impressive pineapple-tossing skills. Then we'll cruise the waterways, stopping at a local bonsai gardener's home for an included lunch.

And tonight, we'll stay with a local family in a traditional homestay, where our hosts will teach us some Vietnamese cooking. Rooms are shared, so it's a great chance to swap stories and reflect on the day. Stay: Mekong Delta Homestay Ut Thuy or similar (B/L/D)

Wake to the sound of the village stirring to life, and catch sight of the locals preparing for a new day.

After a group breakfast at our homestay, we'll jump back on a boat towards the waterfront city of Vinh Long for an included lunch - stopping along the way to see how some of the locals make their living. And tonight? Be sure to try some shellfish, rice paper pizza, and the city's specialty - com tam (a Vietnamese dish made from fractured rice grains. Stay: Phan Anh Backpackers Hostel or similar (B/L)

It's an early start this morning – but there'll be plenty of time to catch up on sleep as we make our way into Cambodia. Ancient wonders, serene landscapes and a rich, diverse history – Cambodia delivers on all fronts. We'll begin in Phnom Penh, where the evening is yours to explore. Sample sizzling street food along Sihanouk Boulevard – or opt for a cocktail tour of the city. Stay: Pacific Hotel or similar (B)

We'll begin the day with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum – a sobering reminder of the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge's rule. It's a lot to take in, but understanding this period is key to making sense of modern Cambodia.

Later, ask your Trip Leader for tips on finding the best bargains at the iconic art deco Central Market. In the evening, we'll take to the water for a sunset cruise on the Mekong. This is what you came for. Stay: Pacific Hotel or similar (B)

This afternoon we'll leave Phnom Penh for Siem Reap, with time for some great optional activities. Explore the city's street food on an evening tour – a chance to sample some delicious local dishes – or hop on a foodie Vespa tour for a fun, fast-paced taste of Siem Reap. Want something completely different? Head out on a sunset quad bike tour through the countryside, then, if you're still up for more, spend the night under the big top at the Cambodian Circus.

Later, check out the neon-lit Angkor Night Market or the buzz of Pub Street – but go easy, tomorrow is full of moments you won't want to miss. Stay: The Twizt - Lifestyle Hostel & Hotel or similar (B)

Ready for a real-life temple adventure? First, we'll explore the Angkor Thom complex with our local guide. Walk through the statue-lined South Gate, take in the intricate Bayon Temple and visit the Elephant Terrace. Then it's on to Ta Prohm – a ruin of crumbling towers and tangled tree roots. Refuel and rehydrate – next is Angkor Wat, the largest temple complex in the world. ‘Otherworldly' barely does it justice.

Afterwards, we'll be watching the sun set from Bakheng Hill, before we come together for a final group dinner at a local eatery. What an adventure it's been. Stay: The Twizt - Lifestyle Hostel & Hotel or similar (B/D)

Seventeen days of unforgettable adventures with a group of strangers who now feel like family. Enjoy breakfast together and swap contact details – perfect for planning that reunion trip. Not ready for it to end? There's still time for an optional cooking class at a local farm, or an e-bike tour through the beautiful countryside. Then it's time to say goodbye – unless you're continuing the journey on our North Thailand: Rivers & Rice Fields. Now that's the spirit. (B)