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This Southeast Asian adventure kicks off in old Asia’s newest hotspot, Luang Prabang. It is in this serene city where we’ll immerse ourselves in deep traditions like the Buddhist’s daily alms-giving. We’ll then fly to the capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, to learn about the country’s turbulent past before indulging in its emerging queer nightlife. Our journey ends in Siem Reap, where we’ll temple hop our way through Angkor Archaeological Park a la Angelina Jolie circa Tomb Raider. As part of our Culture tours theme, you can expect plenty of insightful local connections on this epic escape.
Sabaidi! Welcome to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival at Luang Prabang airport, a private car and guide will transfer you to the hotel for check-in. Freshen up, then join us at 6PM for our Welcome Meeting. Tonight’s Welcome Dinner features Laotian family cuisine, food that will transport you into the past with traditional flavours.
For our first full day we’ll explore the UNESCO-listed streets of Luang Prabang. Our tour begins in the former Royal Palace, which now houses the National Museum. We’ll then walk to Wat Mai, a temple renowned for golden bas-relief, and the dazzling facade of Wat Sensoukarahm. Our final stop is revered temple Wat Xieng Thong. Built in 1560, it’s famed for its carvings and mosaics. Enjoy some downtime by the pool in the afternoon, before a Laotian cooking class. The culinary school’s lakeside locale is a fine place to learn about—and taste—local flavours.
Rise and shine! This morning we partake in the daily ‘Alms Giving’, where saffron-clad monks collect offerings from the faithful (Laos is the last Buddhist nation to practice this ritual). After breakfast we venture to Kuang Si Falls with views of rice fields, rolling hills, and viewpoints en route. After a stop in a local ethnic village, we arrive at Kuang Si Falls where waters cascade from pool to pool. Afterwards, we’ll have the option to visit the sun bear sanctuary next to the falls where we can observe the habits and playful nature of the 23 Asiatic black bears currently living in the sanctuary. On our way back into town we’ll make a stop at the magnificent Kuang Si Butterfly Park. Later in the afternoon there will be some free time to enjoy the hotel amenities or further explore beautiful Luang Prabang, then we’ll reunite for a delicious group dinner in the evening.
This morning we fly to Phnom Penh via Bankgok. Once the Orient’s most beautiful city, Phnom Penh retains colonial charm despite a turbulent history. We will arrive in Phnom Penh later in the evening, so we recommend grabbing a snack and some food while in transit. This evening you are free to explore this bustling city or perhaps relax in the hotel pool.
Please note: Today’s flight is not included in the cost of our 2024 departure. Please see Important Information for a special note on purchasing domestic and regional airfare.
Our morning begins with a sobering tour of the Tuol Sleng Prison Museum, which tells the tragic tale of the Khmer Rouge legacy. A former school, it’s estimated over 20,000 people were held and tortured here. In the afternoon we’ll take a deeper dive into the Khmer Rouge on a guided tour of the Killing Fields. This evening, we have an included dinner at a lovely local restaurant.
This morning you may sleep in, sunbathe, or hit the local market. Just check-out by 11am, as we fly to Siem Reap in the afternoon. Built between the 9th and 13th centuries, this town is home to Angkor Wat, where perfectly-balanced temples represent the cosmic world. We’ll walk through the Royal Gardens tonight, then enjoy dinner where we’ll be joined by a member of the local gay community who will discuss Cambodia’s emerging LGBTQ+ movement.
Please note: Today’s flight is not included in the cost of our 2024 departure. Please see Important Information for a special note on purchasing domestic airfare.
For the ultimate Angkor Archeological Park experience, rise early and join us at sunrise underneath Angkor Wat. After the sun has fully risen we’ll begin our private guided tour of this incredible site. To conclude our morning tour, a Buddhist monk will perform a water blessing on those interested. A gorgeous Khmer lunch awaits at a boutique farm where the majority of the restaurant’s produce is grown. In the afternoon we’ll visit Ta Prohm, which was made famous in Angelina Jolie’s Tomb Raider. Finally, our day concludes with visits to Angkor Thom—the ‘Great Royal City’—as well as Bayon temple, famed for its 200 smiling carved faces and 50 gothic towers. The intricate bas-reliefs and architecture here offer ample fodder for aspiring photographers. For dinner you are free to relax on your own or join the group for an optional dinner, and later in the evening we have an included visit to Phare, the Cambodian circus. But note, “circus” does not do this show justice. Trust us!
It’s our final day together and a slew of optional activities await you. For example you can enjoy a sunset boat tour on Tonlé Sap Lake where the region’s famous floating village awaits. Alternatively, we can arrange a quadbike ride through charming villages and rice fields. Finally, an afternoon poolside could be the ultimate way to relax before flying home. Tonight we’ll gather one last time for our atmospheric Farewell Dinner, and perhaps one last cocktail at one of the local gay bars.
There are no activities scheduled, so enjoy the day at leisure (check out time is noon, unless you’ve extended your stay). Departure transfers must be booked/arranged separately.
It exceeded my expectations. Everything was very well planned and executed.
This tour includes incredible locations, we had an excellent guide, and I met great people, many of which have become lifelong friends. The hotel in Luang Prabang was perfection!
This is a fantastic excursion into Southeast Asia. It has a great balance of culture, history, exploration and nightlife. You’ll have a fabulous time learning about the Khmer Empire, visiting ancient ruins and enjoying some clubs in the evening.
Known as The Gateway to Angkor, Siem Reap is an exciting destination in itself. Here’s 7 other experiences Gay Travellers should have in Siem Reap.
Read MoreLandlocked Laos offers a taste of Southeast Asia as it once was. Learn about our favourite gay experiences in this unique destination below.
Read MoreSnapshots of the the cozy quarters featured on our Cambodia & Laos: Buddhist Sites & City Nights gay tour.
Read MoreWhile gay travellers flock to Vietnam and Cambodia, only a few trendsetters touch down in Laos. See Laos through Kevin Robitaille’s lens in this exquisite photo series.
Read MoreLearn about Angkor Archeological Park and its beautiful Lost Jungle Temples. We list the 7 Angkor temples all gay travellers should visit.
Read MoreAngkor Wat is the primary reason most people visit Cambodia. It sees over 2 million people per year, and was even named *THE* best attraction on Earth by Lonely Planet a few years ago. Here’s a few things you might like to know.
Read MoreOut Adventures’ tips to best enjoy the calming culture of Luang Prabang.
Read MoreOut Adventures loves to connect travellers with people from the LGBT communities in the far-flung lands we visit. It’s a great way to get the most authentic perspective on what life is like. One such connection was with Rath, a gay Cambodian who is still married to his wife while fighting for marriage equality. During our Cambodia […]
Read MoreWhile these trips typically attract gay men, all genders are welcome, and we encourage friends and family to join the fun as well.
Learn MoreAll accommodations on Out Adventures tours include breakfast and are located in areas central to our activities. All amenities are examples only, and may differ from hotel to hotel.
4-Star Hotel: Very comfortable and well-decorated rooms along with quality amenities such as a stylish restaurant and bar. Customer service is very good, and there is usually a concierge.
Learn MoreThis trip is fully booked but cancellations occur. If you’d like to be contacted if space opens up, please click “Book Now”, select the appropriate departure and you will be prompted to provide limited information.
If you are a solo traveller willing to share a room with another solo traveller, please select Shared/Twin Room when booking this tour.
If you are a solo traveller interested in booking a private room, please select single supplement when booking this tour (based on availability). If you are willing to share a room with another solo traveller, please select Solo Shared.
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This trip is available but we are close to departure and will need to confirm services such as hotels and activities before confirming you on the trip. The process can take up to 5 business days. If you are seriously interested in this trip, please complete the On Request Booking form and one of our team members will get back to you with next steps.