Thailand & Vietnam Adventure 27 Days
Journey through exotic lands rich in history, culture, and adventure on this Southeast Asian student tour through Thailand and Vietnam. Teens will get to explore the public markets, pristine beaches and traditional villages of these beautiful countries. Marvel at the waters of Ha Long Bay, care for elephants for a day in Chiang Mai, snorkel in Koh Phi Phi, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese cooking class in Hoi An and so much more. In small, tight-knit groups, participants on this teen summer program will bond with each other and grow through new experiences. With the combination of adventure, cultural exchange and new friendships there’s no question that this will be a summer you will never forget!
Experience new cultures and thrilling activities in a smaller, tight-knit travel group.
This program requires an open mind to experience a different culture, new foods and new surroundings.
Basic hotels and one overnight train with private cabins.
Air-conditioned, professionally-driven vehicles and one overnight train.
A professional guide accompanies the group to assist, educate and immerse the students into the local culture.
On this program, all airfare is arranged by Westcoast Connection.
Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.
Includes all recreation & activities listed.
Up to 26 participants.
We can accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.
Fly overnight to Bangkok. Once you land, your orientation will officially begin with some of our favorite icebreakers and “get to know you” activities.
After a warm welcome greeting and orientation to Thai customs, you will experience this intriguing city with multiple modes of transport – by elevated Skytrain, canal boat, three-wheeled tuk-tuk and longtail boat. The first stop is a food walking tour of Bangkok where you will be introduced to many traditional Thai dishes and flavors. As you take in the major sights including Erawan Shrine, Golden Mount, Grand Palace and Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha), the city’s people will continue to amaze you with their warmth. Learn about initiatives to rehabilitate the mangrove forests and maintain their traditional way of life. Be amazed by the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ayutthaya as you visit the stunning temples in the former capital of Thailand. Venture to the wetlands and explore the canal communities and the floating markets.
Get ready for what is no ordinary zip line! From multiple platforms, zip from tree to tree with spectacular views of one of the province’s oldest forests. You’ll also spend half a day getting up close and personal with Thailand’s national animal – the Thai elephant! Discover the region’s beauty and history as you explore the old city and some of its most famous temples (including Doi Suthep) after a hands-on lesson in Muay Thai kickboxing - the country’s national sport.
At Chicken Island, whether you choose to snorkel or SCUBA in the emerald waters of this paradise, you will see exotic fish, sea turtles and coral. At Railay Bay, you will be able to rock climb with professional instructors and take in the view of the bay as you scale limestone cliffs. Enjoy a second snorkeling opportunity at Koh Phi Phi and chilling on the beach at Railay Bay. (For your safety, all SCUBA operators restrict participants with certain medical conditions. Please ask about your own circumstances if applicable.)
Fly back to Bangkok and enjoy your final few days exploring the markets and canal communities. Enjoy a farewell banquet dinner to celebrate those departing after these 15 days.
Layers of history surround you and reveal periods of French and Chinese occupation. The charming capital has aged well, preserving the Old Quarter, monuments that include the Temple of Literature (the spiritual home of Confucianism), the One Pillar Pagoda and the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh. Explore the history of the Vietnam War while touring the Hanoi Hilton, the Vietnamese POW prison that held Americans during the war. Learn the local craft of how to lacquer paint with a professional artist –make your own traditional Vietnamese painting to bring home. Lakes, parks, tree-lined boulevards, more than 600 temples and pagodas add to the appeal of this city. Sample local Vietnamese delicacies and wander around Hoan Kiem Lake.
This is Vietnam’s most popular destination for visitors. When you see the beauty that leaves you in disbelief, you will know why. Picture emerald waters dotted with towering, limestone island mountains. The bay is surrounded by lush rainforests that were once a natural form of fortification for invaders looking to make their way into Vietnam. Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must to explore and enjoy the natural wonder of Vietnam. On your cruise of the emerald bay, you will kayak and swim in the tranquil waters and explore the Sung Sot Cave with its stalagmites and stalactites. Top off your day by seeing the city via cable car.
Hoi An was an international trading port in the 17th and 18th centuries for ships coming in from Japan, China, and the West. Hoi An offers a glimpse into the well-preserved culture and heritage of Vietnam’s wealthiest city. Learn to cook at The Morning Glory Cooking School as well as learn the delicate art of silk lantern making: a traditional art form that the Vietnamese have practiced for centuries. No visit to Hoi An would be complete without a ride in a coracle boat (round-shaped boat) through the mangroves and waterways. Soak up the sun and enjoy the water with your friends on the picturesque beach of An Bang as you gaze out into the South China Sea.
We fly into Nha Trang, a stunning resort city with shoreline to the east and surrounded on its three other sides by picturesque mountains in the distance. This modern city offers remarkable promenades with a selection of boutiques and shops and a vast array of restaurants to choose from. Snorkel and SCUBA in Nha Trang’s beautiful waters. Relax and unwind at the Thap Ba Hot Springs and browse the local night market.
Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam and known for its French colonial-like architecture, labyrinth of small streets full of markets and shops, and for playing a crucial role in the turning point of the Vietnam War. Modern skyscrapers tower over temples that are centuries old. As your time in Vietnam winds down, we tour through the Cu Chi Tunnels which played an important role in South Vietnam’s strategy during the war. Pick up one more souvenir in the Binh Tay Markets before flying home.
Say farewell to your new friends as you part ways for your return home. The summer might be over, but all the memories you’ve made will last a lifetime!
Bangkok, Thailand
The I Residence hotel features a rooftop restaurant, swimming pool and sundeck with city views of Bangkok. The central location makes it easy to get around and the perfect place to start and conclude your journey in the Land of the Smiles!
Chiang Mai, Thailand
The Ana Park Hotel is a relaxing, centrally-located property featuring a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi access, and delicious breakfast options.
Krabi, Thailand
The Peace Laguna Resort stands out with a stylish combination of tropical lifestyle and contemporary design set in striking natural surroundings. You will enjoy the swimming pool, spa, open-air lobby, and free Wi-Fi.
Hanoi, Vietnam
The Larosa Hotel is a welcoming and comfortable start to our time in Vietnam. The hotel's rooms are air-conditioned and have Wi-Fi.
Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Centrally located and close to the waterfront, the City Bay Palace Hotel has Wi-Fi and air conditioning and a large rooftop terrace for the group to meet and spend time together.
Hoi An, Vietnam
Surrounded by shops and restaurants, the Gem Riverside Hoi An Hotel is a 5-minute walk from Nha Trang Beach. Rooms have Wi-Fi and the hotel has a beautiful pool.
Nha Trang, Vietnam
Surrounded by shops and restaurants, the Edele Hotel is a 10-minute walk from the Nha Trang beach. Rooms have Wi-Fi and a rooftop pool with sundeck and city views.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Centrally located in District 1, The Happy Life Green Hotel is a comfortable and well located end to your time in Vietnam. Rooms have Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
Flights: On this program, all airfare is arranged by Westcoast Connection
Flight To Bangkok, Thailand
We begin this program with a chaperoned group flight from New York or Los Angeles to Bangkok. Our program leaders greet you at the airport and are with you from check-in onward. Everyone has the opportunity to begin bonding before we even land. For our many travelers from outside the New York area, we require all participants to join our group flight to Thailand and are happy to assist you with arranging connecting flights at suitable times into New York.
Internal Flights
Separate from the airfare to and from this program, there is an additional $975 USD fee for internal flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai to Krabi, Krabi to Bangkok, Bangkok to Hanoi, and Hoi An to Nha Trang.
Return Flight Home From Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
For your return from Ho Chi Minh City, we offer a chaperoned flight to New York. You may choose to join that flight and arrange transfers (if required) at suitable times after the group has cleared customs and immigration in the USA; or you may fly from Ho Chi Minh City to your home city and our leaders help you to check-in and remain in the airport until flights in designated times have departed.
Vietnam Entry Regulations
Trip Members require a Vietnamese Visa to Travel to Vietnam: The Vietnamese government has strict guidelines to enter the country. This requires the completion of an e-visa that must be purchased prior to arriving in Hanoi and must be presented upon check-in for your flight. You will need a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining beyond the date of your departure. You will also need at least one blank page in your passport. For American and Canadian citizens: we will obtain the e-visa through our land provider in Vietnam on your behalf.
Meals & New Cuisines
Part of your travel experience will be immersing yourself in the local cuisine and culture so please bring with you an open mind and a willingness to try new things. For example, in Thailand and Vietnam, your mouth will water over authentic spicy local dishes. There is plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and many noodle dishes, but don’t worry, they also have North American style options on the menu. We recommend against drinking the local tap water and we provide clean water for our travelers.
We have satisfied the choosiest of eaters and gladly accommodate most special dietary requests including vegetarian, food allergies, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and kosher style. We welcome discussing your individual requirements with you and have extensive experience in this area.
Drinking Water
On this program, we will have large containers of clean water for you to fill up your own water bottles as needed.
Vaccinations
We recommend you follow the advice of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and consult with your physician for current immunizations and medication required for travelers to Thailand and Vietnam. These recommendations may change from time to time. We will send you detailed information in March (or upon enrollment if later) regarding the current recommendations for this itinerary.
Laundry
You will only need one week’s worth of clothing as outlined in the packing list that will be sent to you prior to departure. Every week you may drop off your laundry at a local wash and fold service and then pick it up clean, folded and ready to go.
What’s Included
Included in your program tuition is all lodging, breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, recreation & entertainment listed, airport transfers in designated times, gratuities & taxes.
Not included is transportation to and from the program, internal flights, and personal spending money for snacks, souvenirs, and laundry. We also make available optional travel insurance that is not included, but highly recommended.
Please contact us with any questions. We are happy to hear from you!
Who are the staff and what are their qualifications?
Our staff are educators, guidance counselors, coaches, college and university students, former camp counselors, residence life coordinators, community volunteers, world travelers, and other leaders with diverse backgrounds. Many are former participants themselves who couldn’t get enough of the Westcoast experience! Learn more about our summer leaders.
What if I need to contact my teen during the program?
Participants may bring their cell phones so parents may call and message their kids directly. You may also contact our Communication Centers which serve as the official link between programs on the road and parents. We are staffed every day during the summer and have somebody on call for after hours emergencies ready to assist you 24/7.
What is the difference between an Active Teen Tour and a Global Adventure program?
Our Active Teen Tours offer larger group sizes (generally 35-48 participants) and travel in deluxe motor coaches. Accommodations include quality hotels and occasional fun college residences.
Global Adventures are smaller group experiences (generally up to 36 participants). Groups travel by private motor coaches and occasional public transportation internationally, and use passenger vans in the USA. Select European programs travel exclusively by train and public transportation. While these programs have a slightly bigger focus on adventure travel, we stay in quality hotels and lodges, always ensuring a good night’s rest.
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