Discover Asia

Day one, you arrive in the big chaotic city of Bangkok. A city with as much history as it has traffic, more character than “characters”, more ambience than ambulances… you get the picture. I think. Anyway, we’ll pick you up from the airport and whisk you to our first hotel to meet the rest of the crew, freshen up or even explore the area which our dedicated Travel Ninja (Tour Guide, but much more awesome) can point you in the right direction or show you some spots. The evening is the real start to the trip, and we have plenty of tricks up our sleeve to ensure it starts with a bang, in Bangkok. First, we will head out to the famous Khao San Road area where you will get to know your group over some delicious food and possibly a few drinks. After our stomachs are satisfied, we hit the town, street bar style.

After a lazy morning to catch some rays by the pool, some zzzzzzz’s in bed, or some bargains at the market, we’ll board a traditional longtail boat to take a ride through Bangkok’s back canals and the main river, the Chao Phraya. Our boat driver will drop us straight at our first temple, Wat Arun (or The Temple of Dawn - cool name right?) where we’ll climb some steps to get a view of the city. After this, we head to one of Bangkok's biggest and most prestigious temples, which also happens to be the first University in Thailand, Wat Pho. Once we have done the culture and learning bit, we’ll grab a traditional Bangkok Tuk Tuk and take a new kind of ride back to our hotel where you can chill (like literally cool down in the AC). Time for our second Bangkok night as a TruFamily. We’d tell you what we’re gonna do, but what happens in Bangkok, stays in Bangkok. Hopefully. (B)

You’ve had the introductions, soaked up some culture, and experienced the nightlife. Now it’s time to head south, to the wonders we spoke of earlier (hint: Khao Sok National Park floating bungalows. Dreamy, right?) Feeling a little fragile? Us too. Fortunately, we have the overnight train ride to recharge, catch up on some sleep and take in some of the sights of the Thai countryside. Before we board the train though, we have a nice surprise for you in the form of a traditional Thai massage. A great way to relax after a big few days and a great way to limber up for the train ride. Great. (B)

Now if we had a list of the 7 Tru Wonders of the World, Khao Sok would be on it. After pulling up early into Surat Thani train station and a short car ride to the national park, we board a longtail boat on the lake and cruise through some breathtaking scenery. Picture low clouds floating over the limestone mountains which surround the emerald green lake. The temperature is perfect for taking a dip, so that's exactly what we’ll do en route to the floating bungalows. Yeah, that's right, we said floating bungalows. Tonight we are staying at an actual floating resort on this amazing lake that looks like something from Jurassic Park. Told you we don’t do average. The afternoon is free to relax by the lake, float around in a tube with a beer, read a book, or explore the lake in kayaks. After sundown, we are treated to a delicious Thai buffet dinner in the floating restaurant and bar. Doesn’t get much better than this. Or does it? (L/D)

What’s better than a floating resort on a crystal clear freshwater lake surrounded by mountains and jungle? I dunno, but our next destination comes pretty close. One of our favourite beaches in the world, Bottle Beach. It’s a stunningly beautiful little beach that is only accessible by boat (or jungle road if you have a badass 4x4) so we pretty much get the place to ourselves and another room with a view! Did we mention this is a TruExclusive? Very few people actually stay here and experience it as you should. And even fewer get to experience it in Tru style. It’s almost impossible to describe how cool this place is. So here is some of the shit that you can do there in paradise with your new pals (apart from lazing on the beach): you can play volleyball, go for a swim or a kayak, hike to the viewpoint or frolic on the beach with one of the friendly resort dogs. In the evening we’ll have dinner on the beach (obviously) followed by some cocktails next to a beach campfire with our own private fire show. Luckily the bar here stays open as long as we stay up so we can take it easy and enjoy a sleep next to the ocean or keep the private beach party rocking until the early hours. Could it get any better than this? No, probably not. (B)

The sounds of the waves breaking on the beach will probably be the first thing you hear when you wake up (unless you have a noisy roommate). We have a lovely lazy morning planned so as always there’s no need to stress about a thing. Sleep in, enjoy the beach, trek through the jungle or up to that viewpoint, and generally make the most of your idyllic surroundings and recharge those batteries. In the afternoon, we’ll head to a local gym, where we get an intro lesson to the ancient art of Muay Thai (Thai Boxing), Thailand’s national sport. Once the trainers have made future champs of us all and we have worked up a bit of a sweat, we’ll check in to our new home where we can freshen up and relax. Naturally, the resort we stay in is a fantastic little place right on the beach with a perfect Koh Phangan island vibe. Good job we’re here for the next two nights. With a great selection of restaurants, bars, parties, beaches, we can eat, drink and do what we like for the next few evenings. Enjoy.

Today you’re a pirate. Arrrrrrr. Well, you can pretend to be if you want, cos we’re getting going sailing and taking you on a tour of this magical island. There’s a reason so many of the TruCrew live here on Koh Phangan. We’ll sail around the coast of the island, we’ll stop off at one of the small islands off the coast of Phangan for some beach shenanigans and at a snorkelling spot to check out the sea life and cool down. Sailing in Thailand for the win! Lunch is provided on the boat, there's plenty of space to spread out and soak up some rays with some nice tunes playing all day to wrap it all up. We get back to land around sunset, just in time to refresh for dinner and drinks on our last night in Koh Phangan. The island is well known for its party scene so if the group’s up for a boogie on the last night in Koh Phangan, we can find something that suits, alternatively a quiet night by the pool/beach bar can also be arranged. (L)

Wave goodbye to the magical island of Koh Phangan, and say hello to its pretty little neighbour Koh Tao. Until relatively recently Koh Tao was pretty much just coconut farms and fishing villages, so it is still fairly undeveloped and like Koh Phangan is bursting with nature. Things changed for Koh Tao when scuba diving became a thing, and people discovered an array of amazing dive sites. Many people visit Koh Tao for the diving, beautiful beaches and laid back lifestyle. When we get to the island, we check in to our hotel near Sairee Beach, which is now lined with cool little restaurants and beach bars (and plenty of dive schools of course). Spend the afternoon by the pool, exploring the town or on the beach. In the evening we will hit some of the beach bars and see where the night takes us!

Today we get to see what all the fuss is about with the snorkelling and scuba diving in Koh Tao (It is what the island is famous for after all), plus we get to visit a beautiful island called Koh NangYuan. We provide snorkelling gear, lunch and drinks on the boat but if you would like to arrange a scuba diving session instead then speak to your Travel Ninja (Elite, bad-ass tour guide) or another one of the Tru Crew in advance, and we will sort it out for you. If you would prefer to work on your tan on the boat then on exploring the wonders of the ocean below the boat, then we can sort that out for you too. You can also hike up to the viewpoint to get some insta envy-inducing snaps or bronze your body on the beautiful beach. In the evening you are free to join the group for dinner at one of the island's nice restaurants and a few beers (or cocktails, even waters if you prefer) at one of the many little bars lining Sairee Beach. (L)

Our last day on this little paradise and fortunately we got options. We are off to Tanote Bay for anyone who wants to come spend the day at this little gem of a beach. If you would rather keep the adrenaline flowing, we can help you arrange one of Koh Tao’s extreme activities. From rock climbing to the more common and much wetter activities like scuba diving or water sports. Or you can stay in bed all day until we check out. We won’t be, but it’s your trip beautiful ;-) *Please note that departures before 2nd August 2024 will have a slightly different itinerary! These departures will get an overnight ferry on day 10 and will arrive in the early morning of day 11. If you have any questions about this please email our sales team on info@trutravels.com*

Today after a chilled morning soaking in the last bit of magic from Koh Tao we will head over to our next incredible destination! They just keep getting better and better! In the afternoon after an amazing speedboat trip we will arrive in Phi Phi. When we have arrived and checked in, you have some free time in the early evening before meeting up for a group dinner on this amazing island! The evenings are always interesting when in Phi Phi, like Koh Tao, it has a very chilled, “islandy” vibe but also a lot of young backpackers and beachgoers, so naturally, it has a lively nightlife with beach parties that often go on into the early hours. So what goes down is up to you and the fam. *Please note that departures before 2nd August 2024 will have a slightly different itinerary! These departures will get an overnight ferry on day 10 and will arrive in the early morning of day 11. If you have any questions about this please email our sales team on info@trutravels.com*

Who loves Leo? And we don’t mean the Thai beer. Although we do love that too. We mean Leo Dicaprio, and you can admit it, you love him. Well so do we, and today you will get to walk in his wonderful footsteps for the day. After a chilled morning, we will jump on another boat to visit a stunningly beautiful spot called Maya Bay, which was made famous by Leo’s famous film, “The Beach” which was filmed here many moons ago. On top of that, we’ll do some more snorkelling, visit some other cool spots like the Viking Cave and Monkey Beach (yes there are actually monkeys there) as well as lunch and watching the sunset from the boat. Another epic day brought to you by TruTravels. You’re very welcome. (L)

First up this morning is an amazing optional hike to a stunning viewpoint in Phi Phi! It's the ultimate way to end our couple of days here and the ultimate Thailand photo opportunity too! Then we are off to Phuket! No, we did not just swear. Phuket (pronounced puket or pooket) is another Thai Island. The biggest one, in fact. Well, this tour is called the Island Hopper, so what did you expect? We end our trip on this crazy island for two main reasons. One because it has an airport and looooads of hotels and transport, so it makes your life easier. Two because you have to experience it once when you come to Thailand. We stay near Patong Beach, which is a lively centre of activity with many tourists and many locals buzzing about on motorbikes and taxis. There are lots of things to do, and the last afternoon is free to chill, explore and get ready for the last night out with the group. Who are now your BFFs, for life, and probably longer, so you can be sure it’s gonna be a really, really good night.

Today we're travelling to Cambodia! It's been a busy couple of weeks so far so take the day to chill, immerse yourself in your new surroundings and get ready to meet your new guide tomorrow - who'll show you the very best of what Cambodia has to offer! (B)

You’ll have the day to chill and explore Siem Reap, before heading out for a meal near the legendary Pub Street. You heard us right. PUB. STREET. A place of bonkers bars, weird and wonderful food, and enough neon lights to make Blackpool look like amateur hour. Then, if you fancy it, sink a drink or two - there’s no better way to get to know your Tru fam than via the medium of slurred, drunken jibber-jabber. (Non-drunken jibber-jabber also accepted.) (B)

Today we set off for a Tru Exclusive. That’s right. An exclusive. You ain’t getting this shiz anywhere else, kids. Hop in a tuk tuk and drive through the bustling streets of Siem Reap to today’s cultural experience. Step into the shoes of a local Mango/Rice farmer (not literally. It’s against Cambodian law to steal shoes from farmers) and learn what it takes to harvest everyone’s favourite tropical fruit (if in season). You’ll even get to enjoy the fruits of your labour. See what we did there? Fruits of your labour. No? Oh, forget it. After all that, it’s time to join our local guide in his family home. Then we’ll head back to the city to relax or take a dip in the pool, before a sunset BBQ this evening. You’ve got a big day ahead tomorrow, so once you’ve had your fill, we’d advise you get some kip and sleep off today’s mangover (that’s ‘mango hangover’ for any newbs). (B/L/D)

Rise and shine people. We told you it would be an early start..ending your time in Siem Reap, today we’re off to visit the world’s biggest religious monument. Say (Angkor) waaaat? Get ready to snap away as we arrive at the UNESCO Heritage site just in time for a beautiful sunrise. We’ll spend the rest of the day relaxing, exploring Siem Reap and taking a much needed nap before our last night on Pub Street so let’s make it memorable! (B)

Wave goodbye to Siem Reap and head towards Cambodia’s capital city, Phnom Penh. After last night’s antics, you’ll probably need some sleep, so lie back, close your lids and dribble on yourself whilst we all take photos of you. Kidding. We’re not that mean. Then, stop off in the countryside for a spot of lunch. Take in the beautiful surroundings and enjoy some delicious food. Get checked into our Phnom Penh accommodation and freshen up, ready to head out for an evening stroll and dinner at a riverside restaurant. Post-grub, get your bargain on at the night market or skip that and head straight to the bars in an attempt to get rid of that lingering tarantula taste. (B)

If there’s one place every person should visit at some point in their life, it’s the Killing Fields, the location of a haunting Cambodian genocide that took the lives of millions, and the S21 Prison, where the Khmer Rouge held 17,000, very few of which survived. Its devastating effects can still be felt today. Your visit here won’t be easy. Nor pleasant. And it’s a story that will stay with you. But it’s a huge part of Cambodia’s recent history that shaped their modern culture, making it something anyone visiting should take the time to learn about. After our humbling visit, we’ll head back for dinner. It’s been an emotional day, so feel free to spend the rest of your evening in whatever way you like. Talk to your Tru buds, take a stroll. There’s no right way to feel after such an eye opening experience. You do you. (B)

We’re off to the riverside town of Kampot, surrounded by stunning mountain views and picturesque scenery, where we’ll stop off at Arcadia Waterpark, a place of lush greenery, cool waters, slushy cocktails, rope swings and pontoons. The perfect place to let your hair down, and spend some quality time with your TruFamily. Because who doesn’t love a chilled afternoon? Y’know, like having a chilled sunbathe on the bank with a cold beer. Or a chilled meander in a kayak. Or a chilled paddle in the cool river. Or a chilled go on the ‘The Blob’, a giant inflatable that flings you into the air, before you crash into the water, lose your bikini bottoms, and emerge, spluttering. Like we said. Chilled. (B)

Today we’re off to a local pepper plantation where we’ll learn everything you need to know about farming the famous Kampot peppers. Will it be fun? You pepper believe it will be! Tell you what, you’ll soon realise you know absolutely nothing about peppers. After that intensive lesson, it’s time to use your newfound pepper knowledge to cook a delicious, traditional Khmer meal, learning from the best in a traditional Cambodian cooking class. Will you be able to get a job as the head chef of a Michelin star restaurant now? Probably not. But you’ve got a tasty, Cambodian meal in your repertoire that’ll blow anyone’s socks off back home. In the evening, we'll make our way in and out of the quaint streets lined by faded blue and green wood shutters, making your way down to the waterside for a dinner overlooking the river. Will it be anywhere near as good as the meal you cooked earlier? We all know the answer to that question. (B/L)

Imagine this. You’re on a boat, the sun glistening off crystal waters, the cool breeze dancing through your hair. You look up. Your breath catches in your throat as you’re greeted by immaculate, white sands, quaint beach huts and boats bobbing lazily in the bay. You squint. There’s barely a soul for miles bar the occasional friendly local, and the trees that line the beach sway gently as though welcoming you to this secluded paradise. *Sigh* Dreamy, right? Well, no need to imagine it because that’s you. Today. Check in and spend the afternoon relaxing on the idyllic beaches, cocktail in hand, watching the sun set over this tranquil island. They say you haven’t seen beauty ‘til you’ve seen this place, and they ain’t (Koh) Rong. (B)

Aaaaaahhhhhhh. Today’s all about that island paradise. Have a lie in, enjoy a late breakfast, stroll along the warm sands before island hopping along the emerald waters. Soak up the rays, top up your tan, and have a pop at a traditional way of fishing. Show off your belly flopping skills, or find your inner Khmer-maid (see what we did there?), snorkel over the vibrant coral, and check out the various marine life that call the warm waters home. The afternoon is yours to chill, have a few cold beers, cut a few shapes, burst into song and dance and perform every song from the Greatest Showman for your Tru pals. Whatever you fancy. This is your last full day on this incredible island, so savour every. Last. Minute. (B)

Today we bid farewell to paradise and the beauty that is Koh Rong! It's been an incredible few days of crystal clear waters and golden sandy beaches but it's time to head back to the city. We travel by boat and bus and check into our a hotel in Phnom Penh. We'll have a few hours to chill before we get dressed and head out. We'll grab some food and see where the night takes us! (B)

Cambodia, you’ve been an absolute dream but it’s time to get ready for an unforgettable 2 weeks in the final country of our grand adventure – Vietnam! Today you'll cross the border and join your Travel Ninja in Ho Chi Minh City. (B)

Rise and shine TruTraveller we’ve got a big day ahead! Wear some comfortable shoes as today we’re heading to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Built in the late 1940’s and spreading over nearly 250km, the Cu Chi Tunnels were used for a number of reasons including housing troops, transporting communications and supplies and even laying booby traps before returning to safety inside the tunnels. Don’t be fooled, although the operations of these tunnels sound seamless, some tunnels were so small they were around 80cm wide and 80cm high, meaning for the average human almost impossible to get through. We’ll experience the tunnels up close and personal and explore some of the underground hiding holes. This experience is one not to be missed and gives a real insight into the struggle and challenges of life only 70ish years ago. (B)

You have the whole day to explore one of the world’s most beautiful and hospitable countries. We start in the iconic and historic city formerly known as Saigon. In spite of the universal welcoming vibes and chirpy nature of the locals, Vietnam’s troubled past is well documented and after taking a walking tour of some of Ho Chi Minh’s most notable spots. It’s time to be astonished at what happened here 50 years ago in the Ho Chi Minh War Museum, which sees half a million visitors a year. Learn the history of the Vietnamese war which spanned over 20 years and still impacts many lives today. We take a walk and view the incredible Independence Palace before continuing on to the cathedral and post office. We finish up by heading to the local food market to try some of the best food around, the local cuisine! Early afternoon we’ll head back and grab some lunch before having a relaxing afternoon. In the evening we’ll head to the airport and head to our next destination - Hoi An! (B)

Today we wake up in the scenic town of Hoi An. A magical place in Vietnam known for it’s beauty and fun fact is also a World Heritage Site! Hoi An is probably most famous for the Vietnamese lanterns that give the town a surreal, tranquil glow each night. You want one don’t you? Let’s go one better and teach you how to make one! Choose your silk, and learn from the locals on how to turn one of these iconic lanterns into your own one. Don’t worry if you’re shit at arts and crafts, you can always leave the lantern in the dark to hide your shame. Another famous activity in Hoi An is the ability to have clothes made, styled, designed and created exactly how you want them. We visit a local tailors where we’ll see how they create incredible clothing and designs. They'll also gift us a one of a kind reusable and sustainable TruTravels tote bag made from the cut off fabrics. An amazing life long gift from the TruFam and perfect for onward adventures. Afterwards we head to Thinhs, an amazing local coffee shop owned by a Tru friend Tinh who grows his own coffee beans and has some of the best Vietnamese coffee in the country! (In our opinion ;)). We’ll learn the process of developing and roasting the beans before trying our very own coffee! The rest of the afternoon is free to explore as we please! (B/D)

Today is a free day so snooze as long as you like. Walk alongside the calm river and take in the relaxing ambience of this quieter part of Vietnam or perhaps head to the famous Ba Na Hills, Golden Bridge. It’s an Instagram favourite! With winding roads and small bridges, it’s easy to see why Hoi An is a favourite among travellers so get out and explore! May we suggest a local beach club for sunset cocktails? Go on, you know you want too! (B)

Today, we’d give a fun level of 10000/10 and we’re not just saying that. First off we’re taking a morning bike ride through the local countryside and village before arriving at our destination for the afternoon! We’re going to Coconut Woods, which despite the name is actually on 7 hectares (don’t ask us what a hectare is, it might be some sort of squirrel) of water. Ever heard of a basket boat? Well you’re about to have your first experience of one and you are going to laugh yourself senseless on one of these mad cap traditional Vietnamese vessels that have been used to crab fish for centuries. We’ll glide through stunning surroundings before slipping, sliding and splashing a little too much as we show how basket boats are best used. It might not be as relaxing as you’re envisioning but it's sure to get the blood pumping. You’ll work up an appetite and get you nice and hungry for a culinary experience and a half before we stop for some delicious food with the local family. This evening will be our last in Hoi An (until you come visit again) so let’s make it a big one with dinner and drinks on the boardwalk. (B/L)

Don’t let the name fool you, we're doing the legendary Hai Van Pass, made famous by Top Gear in open top war jeeps not a van, yeah! Leaving Hoi An will be emotional but once we get out on the open road you’ll see some of the most spectacular scenery anywhere in Vietnam on the way to the city of Hue. We’ll stop on the way for some snaps, some lunch and maybe even a cheeky dip in the tropical waters before reaching the idyllic Hue. Pack a swimsuit! Today is spent, wind in hair, music blasting and driving along this world famous epic route. A once in a lifetime activity ya feel? We’ll arrive late in the afternoon and it’s hotel check-in and chill! Later in the day we’ll be heading out to explore Hue’s nightlife where we’re all about the local beers, the rice wine and dancing the night away. Good food and delicious drinks pending. (B/L)

Did you know Hue was once the home of Emperors? The remnants of their reign can be seen all over the city, none more so than within the walls of the Imperial City itself. So today we’re immersing ourselves in it all. We head along the perfume river and arrive at a tranquil garden. Sit back and relax as it’s here we’ll be spending the day! Are you ready to cook up a storm? We’ll be learning how to cook the delicious Vietnamese food we’ve been devouring for the past week and have loved so very much. No pressure TruFam. Slice and dice away and enjoy every bite of your hard work culinary masterpiece. It’s been an incredible day so we wave goodbye to Hue and hop on an overnight train as we head to our next destination - Ninh Binh! (B/L)

Ninh Binh is known as the Halong Bay on land and for good reason, it’s breathtakingly beautiful. We arrive and jump aboard small boats and paddle through untouched caves and around small surrounding islands. Look around and you’ll see emerald green forestry and rice paddies galore. Absolutely stunning. Afterwards we’ll head to Tam Coc valley, here you’ll find limestone hills dotted amongst the luscious trees. One of the best nature destinations in all of Vietnam and 1 not on the typical touristy trail. The afternoon is free to chill but if the TruFam are up for it, we can hop on bikes and cycle around, stopping for water breaks and those all important insta shots. If you didn’t take a pic did you even go right? We’ve saved the best till last and around mid afternoon we head to the epic Hang Mua viewpoint, with around 500 steps to the top, you know it’s going to be incredible. After updating our instastory, sending 100 pictures in your WhatsApp chat and really taking in the magic of Vietnam we head back for dinners, beers and an incredible sunset over the mountains! (B)

Today we’re going to arguably the most iconic place in Asia - this is Halong Bay and it’s almost certainly been your screensaver at some point in time. A bright green sea, 1,600 limestone islands dotted throughout the bay, this is a labyrinth of genuine paradise and wonder. We leave Ninh Binh early in the morning before travelling to Halong Bay and joining our boat for a night under the stars. Lunch is served to the most breathtaking backdrop imaginable after we’ve boarded and settled in. Today we set sail into paradise, the POA? Kayaking, viewpoints, beaches, the lot! We told you your stay in Halong Bay would stay with you forever. After a day on the water, we head back aboard and learn how to make mouth wateringly tasty spring rolls. The evening is spent watching the sun go down on the open deck, looking up at the stars and sharing a beer or two with your TruFam. Does it get better than this? (B/L/D)

Wake up, rub your eyes, no you’re really here. Take in your surroundings before heading onto the open deck for some breakfast and a large coffee. Huge limestone rock formations in amongst teal waters and luscious green forestry surround us. There’s no place in the world like Halong Bay, so sit back, relax and enjoy the 360 degree views. We’ll spend the afternoon relaxing and swimming before we say goodbye and make our way to Vietnam’s capital - Hanoi! The late afternoon is free so head out and explore! In the evening we meet up for dinner, drinks and head out to see Hanoi’s incredible nightlife! Stay: Hanoi Hotel (B/L)

It’s been 12 days since this wonderful adventure through Vietnam began and by now you’ll have covered over 1,600km of great times, great laughs and great people. Just because the capital of Hanoi is the last stop of your Vietnam Explorer, these dreamy couple of weeks are anything but finished. Hanoi is chaotic, vibrant an absolute experience in itself. Time to explore, right? But not before sampling one of Vietnam’s favourite beveragino’s, a traditional egg coffee. Just trust us they’re pretty good. We’ll head for a demonstration on how this delicacy is made. Do they use real eggs? Who knows. The rest of the day is all yours to explore. Whatever side of Hanoi you like, whether that’s the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi’s gorgeous Opera House or the countless other mega snappable spots in the city. It’s an incredible day. In the evening we get dressed up for our large BIG night out with the TruFam! Stay: Hanoi Hotel (B)

It’s a day for sore heads and emotional goodbyes as we’re at the end of the tour. Fear not though, this may not be the end of your adventure and if not our Travel Ninjas know Southeast Asia like the back of their hand and can advise you on what and where to next. If it is time to depart this part of the world then allow yourself to be sad about it, but promise us you’ll come back for more? It’s a very easy promise to keep in truth. You’re now a lifelong member of the TruFam and by now, you’ll know how big a deal that is. See you soon! (B)