4-Week Solo Southeast Asia Adventure: Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand & Malaysia

Day 1: Explore Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pho Bat Dan

Start your day with authentic Vietnamese Pho in one of Hanoi's best-loved spots; famous for fresh broth and rich flavours.
VND60000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

A scenic walk around the lake with a visit to the iconic temple on the small island, perfect for connecting with local culture and enjoying peaceful views.
VND30000, 1h30m

11:30am

Explore the Old Quarter

Wander through the bustling streets lined with shops, street vendors, and colonial architecture; ideal for souvenirs and street photography.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Enjoy Vietnam’s famous Bun Cha, the grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles, an iconic Hanoi dish featured even in international media.
VND70000, 1h

3:00pm

Visit the Temple of Literature

A historical site dedicated to Confucius and Vietnam’s first university, showcasing traditional architecture and beautiful gardens.
VND30000, 1h

5:00pm

Water Puppet Show at Thang Long Theatre

Experience traditional Vietnamese water puppetry, a unique cultural performance that tells folk tales and legends.
VND100000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Dine on a signature Hanoi dish – turmeric fish cooked tableside – in a restaurant famous locally and internationally alike.
VND150000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Ha Long Bay Cruise

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam on May 19, 2025

7:00am

Travel from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

Take a 3.5-hour road transfer to Ha Long Bay, departing early to maximise your day on the water.
USD25, 3h30m

11:00am

Board Ha Long Bay Day Cruise

Cruise among spectacular limestone islands and emerald water; includes kayaking, cave visits, and seafood lunch on board.
USD80, 5h

4:00pm

Return to Hanoi

After the cruise, transfer back to Hanoi in the late afternoon to rest and prepare for next day's journey.
Included in transfer, 3h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Home Hanoi Restaurant

Enjoy Vietnamese dishes in a cozy setting that blends traditional and contemporary styles.
VND200000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Travel to Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam on May 20, 2025

6:30am

Fly Hanoi to Da Nang

Take an early morning flight from Hanoi to Da Nang (1 hour 30 minutes), with convenient connections to Hoi An by road.
USD50, 1h30m

8:30am

Transfer from Da Nang to Hoi An

A 45-minute drive to the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town of Hoi An.
USD15, 45m

10:00am

Check-in and relax

Settle into your accommodation and acclimatise to the charming riverside town atmosphere.
Varies, 1h

11:30am

Lunch at Cao Lau Ba Le Well

Taste the famous Hoi An noodle dish 'Cao Lau', noted for its unique local recipe and ingredients.
VND60000, 1h

1:00pm

Hoi An Ancient Town Walking Tour

Explore the historical streets, iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, old houses, and vibrant markets; open 8am–10pm.
VND120000, 3h

4:00pm

Visit An Bang Beach

Relax or swim at this beautiful sandy beach just a short bike ride from the town centre.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Morning Glory Restaurant

Enjoy expertly prepared traditional Central Vietnamese cuisine in a charming setting.
VND150000, 1h30m
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Day 4: Hoi An Culture & Craft

Hoi An, Vietnam on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Reaching Out Tea House

Enjoy a peaceful morning tea with local pastries in a tranquil, community-focused setting.
VND80000, 1h

9:00am

Cooking Class at Red Bridge Cooking School

Learn to cook classic Vietnamese dishes with fresh ingredients in a hands-on class including market visit; classes 9am–1pm.
USD50, 4h

1:30pm

Leisure time & Cafe Stop

Relax at a cafe like The Espresso Station or Take It Easy with speciality coffee and local desserts.
VND60000, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village

Cycle or take a short taxi to this farming village to see traditional agriculture and enjoy fresh herbs and vegetables; best visited in the afternoon when farmers are active.
VND50000, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Bale Well

Sample Hoi An street specialties served in a lively local atmosphere, perfect for casual night dining.
VND80000, 1h
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Day 5: To Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on May 22, 2025

6:00am

Fly from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City

Morning flight of approximately 1 hour 20 minutes to the bustling southern city.
USD45, 1h20m

8:00am

Breakfast at L'usine Cafe

Enjoy Western-style breakfast and Vietnamese fusion dishes in a modern boutique setting.
VND150000, 1h

9:30am

Visit War Remnants Museum

A sobering yet essential look at Vietnam’s history and the impact of war; open daily 7:30am–6:00pm.
VND40000, 1h30m

11:30am

Explore Ben Thanh Market

Browse a huge market for souvenirs, local food, and handicrafts; chaotic and colourful.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Pho Hoa Pasteur

Taste famed Saigon-style Pho in a highly recommended local spot.
VND70000, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office

Explore stunning French colonial architecture located centrally in the city; open 7am–5pm.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Saigon Skydeck at Bitexco Tower

Get panoramic city views from the observation deck of one of Ho Chi Minh’s tallest buildings; open until 9pm.
VND200000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Propaganda Bistro

Enjoy a modern twist on Vietnamese dishes in a lively, art-filled venue.
VND250000, 1h30m
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Day 6: Mekong Delta Day Trip

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on May 23, 2025

7:00am

Mekong Delta Full-Day Tour

Explore the Mekong’s floating markets, local villages, and fruit orchards; guided tours typically run 7am–6pm and include transport, meals and activities.
USD60, 11h

7:00pm

Dinner at Cuc Gach Quan

Relax with traditional Vietnamese home cooking in an atmospheric setting after a full day of touring.
VND200000, 1h30m
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Day 7: Travel to Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, Cambodia on May 24, 2025

7:00am

Fly Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh

Early flight takes roughly 1 hour to Cambodia’s capital, setting you up to explore in the afternoon.
USD70, 1h

9:00am

Breakfast at Sora Café

Start with specialty coffee and healthy breakfast options in a trendy cafe known for community support.
USD5, 1h

10:30am

Visit Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda

Tour the ornate royal grounds featuring classic Khmer architecture; open 8am–5pm.
USD10, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Friends the Restaurant

Enjoy delicious modern Cambodian food that also supports training disadvantaged youth; open 11:30am–10pm.
USD15, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

An important historical site and museum documenting the Khmer Rouge era; open 8am–5pm.
USD5, 1h30m

5:00pm

Walk along the Riverside Promenade

Enjoy sunset views by the Mekong River with lively cafes and street vendors.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Malis Restaurant

Sample refined Khmer cuisine using traditional recipes and local ingredients in an elegant atmosphere.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 8: To Siem Reap & Temples

Siem Reap, Cambodia on May 25, 2025

7:00am

Fly Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

Early flight about 45 minutes ahead of discovering the temple wonders.
USD70, 45m

8:30am

Breakfast at Sister Srey Cafe

Well-loved cafe serving fresh organic coffee and tasty breakfasts in a relaxed garden setting.
USD5, 1h

10:00am

Angkor Wat Temple Complex Visit

Spend the day exploring the vast UNESCO site, including Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm; temple hours 5am–5:30pm.
USD37 (1-day pass), 6h

4:00pm

Rest and refresh at Hotel

Return to your hotel to relax and prepare for evening activities.
Varies, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Chanrey Tree

Dine on authentic Khmer dishes within a charming restaurant setting close to the river.
USD20, 1h30m
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Day 9: Explore Siem Reap

Siem Reap, Cambodia on May 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Commonwealth

Popular spot for specialty coffee and brunch with a modern vibe.
USD8, 1h

9:00am

Visit Angkor National Museum

Learn more about Khmer history and the temples with modern interactive exhibits; open 8am–6pm.
USD12, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Viroth's Restaurant

Taste local favourites with a contemporary twist in a stylish atmosphere.
USD15, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Artisans Angkor

Support local craft workers and see traditional Khmer arts and crafts made on site; workshop open 8am–6pm.
Free, 1h30m

3:00pm

Relax at Phare Cambodian Circus

Evening performance showcasing energetic storytelling through circus arts; show typically 7pm–8:30pm.
USD18, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Haven

Support a social enterprise while enjoying a fusion of Khmer and Western dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
USD18, 1h30m
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Day 10: Fly to Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand on May 27, 2025

7:00am

Fly Siem Reap to Bangkok

Short flight approximately 1 hour 10 minutes to Thailand’s vibrant capital.
USD80, 1h10m

8:30am

Breakfast at Rocket Coffeebar

Begin with strong coffee and modern breakfast fare in sleek surroundings.
THB300, 1h

10:00am

Visit Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

Explore Bangkok’s grand royal complex and the Emerald Buddha temple; open 8:30am–3:30pm.
THB500, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Krua Apsorn

Taste authentic Thai dishes loved by locals, famous for crab curry and stir-fried items.
THB400, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha)

Admire the vast reclining Buddha statue and traditional Thai massage school; open 8am–6:30pm.
THB200, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Chinatown (Yaowarat Road)

Walk the vibrant streets filled with gold shops, street food stalls, and markets; best in the afternoon or evening.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at T & K Seafood

Enjoy fresh and flavourful seafood street eats in bustling Chinatown.
THB500, 1h30m
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Day 11: Bangkok Temples & Markets

Bangkok, Thailand on May 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at On Lok Yun

Traditional Thai breakfast spot popular for classic dishes like jok (rice porridge); open 7am–2pm.
THB100, 1h

9:00am

Day trip to Ayutthaya Historical Park

Explore ancient ruins and temples just 1.5 hours from Bangkok; tours generally run 9am–5pm including transport.
THB1500, 8h

6:00pm

Dinner at Supanniga Eating Room

End the day with authentic eastern Thai cuisine served with warm hospitality.
THB600, 1h30m
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Day 12: Fly to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, Thailand on May 29, 2025

7:00am

Fly Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Morning flight of around 1 hour 15 minutes to northern Thailand’s cultural hub.
THB1500, 1h15m

9:00am

Breakfast at Rustic and Blue

Enjoy healthy, creative dishes and specialty coffee in a botanical café setting.
THB350, 1h

10:30am

Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

This temple on a mountain overlooking Chiang Mai is a must-see; open 6am–6pm.
THB50, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Khao Soi Khun Yai

Try Northern Thai specialty Khao Soi, a fragrant coconut curry noodle soup loved locally.
THB50, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Old City Temples

Wander old city walls and visit temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh; open 8am–5pm.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Riverside Bar & Restaurant

Enjoy riverside dining with live music and both Thai and Western dishes.
THB400, 1h30m
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Day 13: Elephant Sanctuary Visit

Chiang Mai, Thailand on May 30, 2025

7:30am

Day trip to Elephant Nature Park

Spend a full day at a highly ethical elephant sanctuary learning, feeding and observing rescued elephants; tours run 8am–5pm.
THB2800, 9h

6:30pm

Dinner at Khao Soi Nimman

Relax with northern Thai comfort food, including several Khao Soi varieties served in a casual setting.
THB100, 1h30m
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Day 14: Travel to Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on May 31, 2025

8:00am

Fly Chiang Mai to Kuala Lumpur

Morning flight of approximately 3 hours including possible transit through Bangkok or other hub.
MYR300, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Merchant’s Lane

Chic cafe serving local fusion food in a vintage colonial-style ambiance located in Chinatown.
MYR40, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Petronas Towers and KLCC Park

Admire the iconic twin towers and enjoy a stroll in the surrounding landscaped park; towers open 9am–9pm but skybridge ticketed tours are 9am–8pm.
MYR80, 2h

4:00pm

Explore Bukit Bintang Shopping District

Widely known for shopping, cafes, and nightlife; explore malls and lively streets.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Jalan Alor Food Street

Experience the vibrant street food culture with a wide variety of Malaysian, Chinese and Thai dishes.
MYR50, 1h30m
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Day 15: Cultural Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at VCR Café

Popular café offering excellent coffee and breakfast fare in a cozy space.
MYR25, 1h

9:30am

Visit Batu Caves

Hindu temple site in limestone caves with a gigantic golden statue; open 6am–9pm.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Tandoor Grill

Experience delicious North Indian cuisine near Bukit Bintang in a vibrant atmosphere.
MYR40, 1h

2:30pm

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

Visit one of Southeast Asia’s best museums dedicated to Islamic decorative arts; open 10am–6pm, closed Mondays.
MYR14, 2h

5:00pm

Stroll in Lake Gardens (Perdana Botanical Gardens)

Relax in beautiful landscaped gardens featuring lakes, a butterfly park and bird park; open 6am–8pm.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Bijan Bar & Restaurant

Savour authentic Malay fine dining with elegant ambiance and live traditional music.
MYR130, 1h30m
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Day 16: Penang Bound

Penang, Malaysia on June 2, 2025

7:00am

Travel Kuala Lumpur to Penang by train or flight

Take a 4-hour scenic train journey or 1-hour flight to Penang, gateway to George Town.
MYR80 (train) or MYR150 (flight), 4h (train) / 1h (flight)

11:00am

Breakfast / Brunch at China House

Begin in a unique art gallery café offering fusion dishes, cakes and coffee.
MYR25, 1h

12:30pm

George Town Heritage Walk

Explore murals, colonial architecture, temples and vibrant street art; self-guided walk recommended.
Free, 3h

4:00pm

Visit Pinang Peranakan Mansion

Discover the history and culture of the Straits Chinese community in a beautifully preserved mansion; open 9am–5pm.
MYR20, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gurney Drive Hawker Centre

Sample Penang’s best street food including char kway teow, laksa and grilled seafood.
MYR30, 1h30m
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Day 17: Explore Penang

Penang, Malaysia on June 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Toh Soon Cafe

Enjoy Penang’s famous charcoal-roasted toast and local coffee in a traditional kopitiam.
MYR5, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kek Lok Si Temple

One of Southeast Asia’s largest and most stunning Buddhist temples; open 8am–6pm.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Ayer Itam Laksa Stall

Try Penang’s famous spicy and tangy fish-based laksa noodles.
MYR6, 1h

2:30pm

Penang Hill

Take the funicular railway up Penang Hill for panoramic views and cooler air; open 6:30am–10:30pm.
MYR30, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Suffolk House Restaurant

Dine in a grand heritage mansion with refined Malaysian and Western cuisine.
MYR100, 1h30m
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Day 18: Langkawi Relaxation

Langkawi, Malaysia on June 4, 2025

8:00am

Fly Penang to Langkawi

Short flight about 45 minutes to Langkawi, a picturesque island renowned for beaches and nature.
MYR100, 45m

9:00am

Breakfast at The Loaf

Start with fresh bakery goods and coffee in this popular Langkawi café.
MYR25, 1h

10:30am

Relax at Pantai Cenang Beach

Spend the day lounging, swimming, or trying water sports at Langkawi’s most famous beach.
Free, 4h

3:00pm

Visit Langkawi Sky Bridge and Cable Car

Ride the cable car to stunning views and a curved pedestrian bridge suspended in the sky; open 10am–6pm.
MYR55, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Orkid Ria Seafood Restaurant

Enjoy freshly caught local seafood in a relaxed beachfront setting.
MYR80, 1h30m
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Day 19: Langkawi Island Day

Langkawi, Malaysia on June 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Yellow Café

Casual beachside café serving western and Asian breakfast favourites with sea views.
MYR30, 1h

9:00am

Island Hopping Tour

Spend a half-day boat tour visiting nearby islands, snorkeling spots, and eagle feeding; tours typically run 9am–1pm.
MYR80, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Red Tomato

Italian and western dining by the beach for a relaxed midday meal.
MYR40, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Mahsuri’s Tomb

Learn about local legend Mahsuri at this cultural and historical site; open 9am–6pm.
MYR5, 1h

4:30pm

Sunset at Tanjung Rhu Beach

Watch the sunset on a peaceful beach far from the crowds.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at FatCUPID Coffee Culture

Enjoy modern Asian fusion dishes and excellent coffee in a trendy setting.
MYR40, 1h30m
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Day 20: Departure

Langkawi, Malaysia on June 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your final morning with a leisurely hotel breakfast by the beach.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Transfer to Langkawi International Airport

Take a transfer to the airport for your onward flight as your Southeast Asia adventure concludes.
MYR30, 30m
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