In April 2024 we are going to be in Da Nang and Hoi An for a wedding. We would like to venture into another country while we are there and wondering if anyone has done any kind of organized tours over to Laos. Had also considered Cambodia, but figured Laos would be easiest for a quicker side trip. We wouldn't have that much time--we have a few days after the wedding before we return to the US through Da Nang.
Posted by
california
292 posts
Hi there..Yes..have done it twice. 2017 and 2019. So glad we did. I went through 365travel both times. They were recommended by a friend who went. Very easy to work with. Enjoy your trip!
Posted by
DinHo Ecotour (Mekong Delta, Vietnam)
20 posts
Or you can also fly Danang to Siem Reap for a few days.
Posted by
USA
16 posts
You're right! While Cambodia is also a fantastic destination, the logistics might be more time-consuming given the distance from Da Nang and Hoi An. So, if you're looking for a quicker side trip, Laos might be the better option.
Posted by
Chicago
1135 posts
I also second Siem Reap. I have been two times, both without an organized tour. It is very easy to find a personal guide either via tuk tuk or car (my choice for safety, but others swear by tuk tuk) to the temples. The city has lots of areas of interest also. Wide range of hotel to resort prices. Resorts didn't approach US prices for impeccable service. The first trip, I think I had 4 full days plus arrival and departure, the next trip was longer. Obviously, I loved Siem Reap and the people I met.
I was just thinking that you might be better able to control the days you have available rather than find an organized tour to Laos.
I did research Laos pre-Covid, but didn't get the trip in. There were ways to DIY that seemed quite comfortable to me, solo, retirement age female. Check with TripAdvisor if you haven't already.
Is Bangkok or Chang Mai out of the question? Also easy to self-tour (designate your own days and terms). Check that April isn't smokey season in Chang Mai or that you don't hit Songkran if you consider Thailand. Lots of water and crowds that you might prefer to avoid.