VIETNAM, CAMBODIA, LAOS
Journey to Thich Nhat Hanh’s Root Monastery
DECEMBER 1-13, 2024
Early bird pricing!
Dharmacharya Shantum Seth, an ordained dharma teacher in the Zen Buddhist lineage of Thich Nhat Hanh, is a world expert on sites associated with the Buddha and has been leading pilgrimages with his tour company Eleven Directions since 1988. He has co-authored books such as Walking with the Buddha, and has been a consultant for films such as BBC Discovery’s Life of the Buddha and BBC-PBS’s The Story of India, as well as advising the World Bank and the Indian Ministry of Tourism. Learn more at Eleven Directions.
*An alternate Eleven Direction's guide may be used for groups of 7 or less participants.
JOURNEY LEADER
Dharmacharya Shantum Seth
TRIP OVERVIEW
Make a transformative journey through Vietnam, the home country of Ven. Thich Nhat Hanh.
Explore the vibrant cultural centers of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, as well as the imperial city of Hue, where we will visit the root temple of Ven. Thich Nhat Hanh.
Find yourself basking in rural tranquility along the Mekong Delta with its floating markets, cruise beneath the towering limestone islands of Halong Bay and discover the lost Hindu Temples of Mỹ Sơn.
Immerse yourself in history and culture with the help of your world-class guide(s) with expert knowledge about the living tradition of Buddhism, peace activism, and how Buddhism shapes local life.
Explore the multifaceted aspects of the Vietnam/American War by visiting Museums and meeting local people with first-hand experiences and perspectives.
Enjoy opportunities to meditate and contemplate the beautiful and sacred places you’ll explore, with plenty of time for quiet reflection. Be part of a traveling sangha, or community, with opportunities to practice and learn together.
Visit local homes, meet local people, teachers and monastics, and experience Vietnamese life—traditional and contemporary, bustling and serene.
- Have the option to visit Angkor in Cambodia- home to one of Southeast Asia’s most important archeological sites. This region fuses sacred Buddhist and Hindu religious architecture and was constructed as an earthly representation of heaven. You will visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple, and many other temples and archeological sites.
Activity Level: LIGHT
Daily activities include visits to various sites and walking tours. Transport will be via a comfortable private coach and boat.
Service Level: DELUXE
The accommodation provided is in comfortable and well-located high-end hotels. This journey includes one overnight stay on a deluxe cruise boat. Transportation by private coach or boat, along with meals, guide services, entrance fees and scheduled activities, are all included.
Day 7
Hue
Day 8
Hue - Hoi An
Day 9
Hoi An-My son-Hoi An
Day 10
Hoi An / Danang / Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Day 11
Ho Chi Minh City
Day 12
Ho Chi Minh City-Visit to Mekong Delta
ITINERARY
CAMBODIA: Heaven On Earth | December 13-16, 2024
PRICING
The total price includes guide services, transportation, meals, site entrance fees, bottled water, and lodging arrangements for the duration of the journeys.
• The total cost for the Vietnam: Return to the Source pilgrimage (December 1-13, 2024) is US $7,250, based on double occupancy. The single room supplement is an additional US $2,350*.
• Optional Extra: The Cambodia Heaven on Earth extension (December 13 - December 16, 2024) costs US $1,850 with a single room supplement of US $690*.
• Optional Extra: The Laos extension (December 16 - December 19, 2024) costs US $1,950 with a single room supplement of US $710*.
* Please note that if we are unable to room solo travellers with someone of the same gender, participants will be liable to pay 50% of the single room supplement. Due to the number of tourists visiting these sites in peak season, it may be difficult for hotels to provide a single room. In some very exceptional circumstances, even twin rooms may be unavailable. We ask for your understanding should this circumstance arise.
What’s included
Airport transfers and transportation services in Hanoi/Ho Chi Min City/Siem Reap
Guide services
Domestic transportation inside Vietnam and Cambodia
Site entrance fees
All meals and bottled water
Lodging arrangements for the duration of the journey
Cruise overnight stay
Regular meditation sessions, teachings and group sharings with Dharma teacher Shantum Seth
What’s not included
International airfare between Ho Chi Min City and Siem Reap for those on the Cambodia extension
Visas and other international arrangements
Costs for any extra days spent in Vietnam or Cambodia beyond the dates of the journeys
Any additional activities not included in the itinerary
Excess baggage fees on flights
Medical or other insurance coverage, including travel insurance
Phone calls during the journey
Laundry
Spending money
Tips/ gratuities
WHAT TO EXPECT
The Buddha lived and taught throughout the Gangetic plains of Northern India, where your journey will take you from New Delhi, through two states of northern India: Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, as well as Nepal. India’s populous cities stand in contrast to the more peaceful villages and each has a distinct and interesting lifestyle. Varanasi and Bodhgaya are both significant pilgrimage sites, having their own distinct character. In these places we get a closer view of how modern and traditional India co-exist. Kushinagar, Sravasti, and Rajgir are relatively quiet smaller towns, giving travelers the opportunity to absorb the nuances of local culture and society.
The pilgrimage offers the freedom to explore and discover the Buddha’s India with all the security and comfort of traveling in a group with an expert guide, Shantum Seth. At each pilgrimage site along the way, Shantum will tell stories of the Buddha’s life and give teachings to help us understand the Buddha as a human being, the drama of his life, and the significance of what he taught. Time is scheduled for daily sitting and walking meditation, regular discussions, and contemplation. The creation of a traveling sangha will be
TESTIMONIALS (“From Our Travelers”)
“Shantum's love of buddhadharma and in-depth historical understanding was a constant source of enrichment. For me, the value of an 'outer' pilgrimage is the ability to nourish the 'inner' pilgrimage – traveling with Shantum did just that.”
Larry Rosenberg, Author and guiding teacher
Cambridge Insight Meditation Center, USA
“As a friend of Buddhist sanghas and communities, I was so happy that Shantum did not require me to be Buddhist to join. The nature of the journey is deeply spiritual, and everything that Shantum offers from Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings was eagerly received and nourished my soul. Shantum is a Master Teacher, Wise Counselor, and a beautiful dear friend. Participating in his traveling sangha will most likely lead to numerous life-altering experiences. As Mike Dooley often says, “Thoughts become things. Choose the good ones.” After four journeys with Shantum and his wonderful staff and, most recently, with his family, he’s one of the best.”
Aura Wright, participant
ABOUT SHANTUM SETH & ELEVEN DIRECTIONS
“With each step and breath, the Buddha comes alive. Shantum's knowledge, insight, and humor brings joy to those journeying with him in the footsteps of the Buddha.”
Thich Nhat Hanh, Vietnamese Zen Master, Plum Village, France
Shantum Seth is one of the world’s foremost teachers and guides to the sites associated with the Buddha. He is an ordained Buddhist teacher (Dharmacharya) in the Zen tradition of the Vietnamese master, Thich Nhat Hanh. He teaches in India and other countries and has been leading his acclaimed pilgrimage In the Footsteps of the Buddha since 1988. In the last few years he has been leading interfaith, educational, cultural, and spiritual journeys to diverse regions of India. He has been deeply involved with social and ecological development issues for over 40 years.
He has contributed to a number of books including Walking with the Buddha, I Have Arrived, I Am Home, and Volunteers Against Conflict. He has also been a consultant on films including Life of the Buddha, made by the BBC/Discovery and Michael Wood’s The Story of India, by BBC/PBS. He and his work have been featured in many magazines and newspapers including National Geographic, Qantas, The New York Times, Newsweek, Times of India, Outlook, India Today, and Hindustan Times.
Seth is also a consultant to the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation to help promote Buddhist tourism in India. He is on the Government of India’s expert committee for the promotion of Buddhist teaching and learning, has trained guides for the Government of India and UNESCO, is on the Indian executive of the interfaith group Temple of Understanding, and has addressed a number of forums and universities including the Chicago Council of Global Affairs, the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) and the UNDP executive board, among others. He has also given a TEDx talk.
As an accredited guide, he is a great cultural interpreter, he enjoys sharing the subtleties of regional religion, culture, economy and politics. He lives with the mission of making the world a better place and helping people awaken to their fuller potential by exposing people to different ways of living and thinking, thereby expanding consciousness and building cross-cultural understanding.
Shantum Seth with his family.
ABOUT LION’S ROAR
Lion’s Roar is an independent non-profit foundation whose mission is to communicate Buddhist wisdom and practices in order to benefit people’s lives and our society, and to support the development of Buddhism in the modern world. We do this by providing as many entry points as we can: our print and digital publications, our website, free virtual summits, podcasts, social media and online courses. Lion’s Roar is a registered charity in both the United States and Canada.
Pilgrimage has been an important aspect of Buddhist practice since the time of the Buddha himself. Lion’s Roar is pleased to present this opportunity to travel to the home of teacher Thich Nhat Hanh and experience a living culture of Buddhism. These pilgrimages are organized and led by our friends at Eleven Directions with the expert guidance of dharma teacher and writer, Dharmacharya Shantum Seth.* Shantum Seth is a longtime student of the late Thich Nhat Hanh and studied under him for more than 30 years. This is a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Thich Nhat Hahn’s Root Monastery that will open your eyes to modern Buddhist society, tradition and culture in Vietnam and Southeast Asia.
Lion's Roar receives a commission for pilgrimage bookings which helps support our charitable mission and activities to communicate Buddhist wisdom and practices, and support the development of Buddhism in the modern world.
*An alternate Eleven Direction's guide may be used for groups of 7 or less participants.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
an important aspect of this trip, giving the journey a greater cohesiveness and building a sense of support for those seeking to deepen their practice. You’ll stay at the best available accommodations in the vicinity of the sites (which are normally five-star hotels, heritage hotels, and guest houses), based on shared, twin-bedded rooms with a private bath or shower and toilet. The accommodations are clean and comfortable—in some cases monastic-style, and in some cases more luxurious.
Transport is by comfortable private coach (apart from internal flights and airport transfers). All meals are included, with a large variety of delicious local dishes and plenty on offer for vegetarians. Bottled water is also provided. English is widely spoken, and transportation and infrastructure are good, but travelers must still expect the unexpected! India is a place of contrasts: often crowded and impoverished, but also friendly, colorful, and magical. A good sense of humor, flexibility, patience, and a sense of adventure will stand you in good stead.
“It is a great joy to travel with like-minded people. “Back to the Source” with Shantum was a unique opportunity to visit Vietnam, the Land where Thich Nhat Hanh was born and get the chance to meet those wonderful Sangha friends, to visit those monasteries, great cultural and natural landscapes.”
Regula B., participant
“What was important to me was to be guided by someone with intimate knowledge of and sensitivity to the dharma, the sacred sites, the land and its people. Shantum Seth manifested this rare combination. For me, the pilgrimage was very rich and fulfilling. I will savor it for years.”
Eloise Ross-Jones., participant
“Shantum’s ability to coordinate scheduling, living accommodations, and transportation was impressive. His skill and knowledge as a guide are unsurpassed. He made the journey highly meaningful for me and my fellow travelers, all from the States. His passion for the history and teachings of the Buddha made the experience a life-changing one.”
Katharine Bertolet, participant
Day 1
Hanoi
Begin your journey midday with a tour of Hanoi, a vibrant city rich with French colonial influence and lush, shaded boulevards. Here, we will visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which offers insights into the 54 ethnic groups of the country, the Old Quarter’s 36 streets filled with everything from noodles to Buddha statues and stop to meet members of Thich Nhat Hahn’s local community.
Day 2
Hanoi
We will embark on a day trip stopping at the ruins of the ancient capital Hoa Lu of the Dinh and Le dynasties, then continue onto Trang An, a UNESCO heritage site known for its reputation as “Halong Bay on land .” We will board a small boat and meander along the river, passing below limestone-cragged hills jutting skyward from the lush rice patties below. We’ll end the day with an evening Water Puppetry show unique to Northern Vietnam. This 800-year-old artistic tradition encapsulates the local lifestyle and myth through enacted sketches.
Day 3
Hanoi / Halong Bay Cruise
We will depart on an overnight luxury cruise to see the majestic Halong Bay set below the mythical limestone islands. We will explore the most spectacular caves and drift along the emerald waters and quiet islands. Filled with cultural experiences aboard the ship in the evening, we will find a peaceful harbor to set anchor for the night.
Day 4
Halong Bay
Starting early, we will visit our last stop on the water, Titov Island and hike to its breathtaking bay view. After returning to shore late morning, we will venture to the sacred Yen Tu Mountain home of King Tran Nhan Tong, a monk and founder of a school of Zen.
Day 5
Hanoi-Hue
We will fly from Hanoi to the historic Imperial City of Hue, the home city of Ven. Thich Nhat Hanh. After arrival we will embark on the Mu Pagoda River cruise and enjoy the incredible natural beauty, listening to folk music performances on the Perfume River.
Day 6
Hue
We will visit the nunnery part of Tu Hieu Monastery, where Thich Nhat Hanh entered as a novice at 16 and became ordained as a Dharma teacher, followed by a visit to the Peaceful Bamboo Family, a community for individuals with special needs. They are a living example of engaged Buddhism and have implemented a community-level 'Happiness' curriculum.
Day 7
Hue
We will begin the day with meditation at Bao Quoc Temple where Thich Nhat Hahn studied, followed by a visit to a kindergarten that is run and was created by monastics in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hahn. We will explore Hue’s ancient citadel and discover the Chinese dynasty’s artistry throughout the Imperial City, modeled after the Forbidden City in Beijing and the paper flower making village.
Day 8
Hue | Hoi An
We will spend our morning in Hue and visit the cemetery where Thich Nhat Hahn was buried. Departing midday, we will drive along one of the most scenic coastal stretches of road in Vietnam as we make our way to the UNESCO heritage city Hội An. We will tour this well-preserved ancient town with its beautiful beaches, ports, and Vietnamese and colonial architecture.
Day 9
Vaishali – Kushinagar
Drive on to Kushinagar. Forty-five years after achieving enlightenment, the Buddha died, age 80, surrounded by his monks in a grove of blooming sala trees here at Kushinagar. Spend some time in the Mahaparinirvana Temple to take in the great six-meter-long reclining statue representing the Buddha’s death, and then explore the stupas and shrines throughout the beautiful gardens. Also visit the site of the Buddha’s cremation.
Day 10
Hoi An | Danang | Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
We will fly to stay in the 'high-octane’ city of commerce and culture, Ho Chi Minh City. After arriving, we will embark on a city tour, visiting the Central Post Office, strolling along Dong Khoi St. toward the Saigon River, and stopping at the Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of the most atmospheric temples in the city.
Day 11
Ho Chi Minh City
We will embark on an excursion to Cu Chi Tunnels, the infamous underground city for Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War, to Ho Chi Minh City’s Cho Lon, the world’s most extensive China Town, and to the Vietnam War Museum for a powerful insight into the war’s impact and the perspective of the Vietnamese people, highlighting their struggles, sacrifices, and achievements during the conflict. We will visit An Quang Temple, where Thich Nhat Hahn spent years studying and teaching, and meet local Buddhist scholars.
Day 12
Ho Chi Minh City
We will set sail on the Mekong River, also known as the “River of Buddhism,” whose headwaters begin in Tibet. Immersing ourselves in the rhythm of life on the water, we will visit the floating markets, an integral part of life along the river. As we cruise through the maze of canals, we will see artisans at work and locals buying, selling and trading their products.
Day 14
Siem Reap
We will visit the UNESCO heritage site of the Angkor Complex which is the largest religious monument in the world. We will stop by Banteay Shrei - an ancient Hindu temple in the countryside followed by a stop to a sugar Palm village visit, where we will learn about products produced from palm tree, and attend a Traditional Apsara dancing show.
Day 14
Siem Reap – Angkor
We will enjoy a magical day touring the UNESCO heritage site of the Angkor Complex. We will visit numerous temples, including the famous Ta Prohm Temple, followed by an exploration of the ancient city of Angkor Thom with its numerous terraces and stone faces. We will end our day with a sunset view at the Twin Temple of East Mebon.
Day 15
Siem Reap – Angkor
We will enjoy another magical day touring the UNESCO heritage site of the Angkor Complex. We will visit numerous temples, including the famous Ta Prohm Temple, followed by an exploration of the ancient city of Angkor Thom with its numerous terraces and stone faces.
Day 16
Siem Reap (Departure)
The journey will end after our morning meditation and closing circle. We will then have an optional transfer to the airport and say farewell.
–– ADDITIONAL SIDE TRIP OPTIONS ––
We invite you to join Dharmacharya Shantum Seth on a journey through Vietnam, the home country of Thich Nhat Hanh. This pilgrimage offers an unparalleled immersive experience, with a full itinerary featuring site visits, teachings, lectures, and leisure time.
On this journey, you will soak in the culture that has continuously developed and maintained the Buddha Dharma for nearly two thousand years, visit the root temple of Thich Nhat Hanh, speak about peace activism, meet some of Vietnam's most skilled teachers and monastics, and experience engaged Buddhism in society.
You will explore the multifaceted aspects of the Vietnam/American War through visits to museums and meetings with individuals. You will gain a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in history through the first-hand perspectives of people who were involved and affected.
You will steep in the shaded boulevards of Parisian-influenced Hanoi and embrace the awe floating below the towering limestone islands of Halong Bay. You will experience rich Buddhist culture, from ancient UNESCO temples to the humming modernity in Ho Chi Minh City.
This journey is a profound opportunity to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture, experience Buddhism daily, and soak in the country's wondrous beauty, all while paying homage to Thich Nhat Hanh.
Day 14
Siem Reap-Angkor Temples
Day 15
Siem Reap-Angkor
Day 16
Siem Reap-Departure
Day 13 (continued)
Siem Reap
To register, a non-refundable deposit of US $500 per person is required to reserve your booking. The remaining balance of the pilgrimage is due by October 1, 2024. All registration fees are payable in US dollars or the equivalent in other currencies.
What is the accommodation like?
The accommodation provided is in comfortable and well-located high-end hotels. This journey includes one overnight stay on a deluxe cruise boat. Prices are based on shared, twin-bedded rooms with a private bath or shower and toilet. If you prefer a single room (where available), there is a price supplement. Solo travelers who wish to room with another participant will be accommodated where possible. However, in the event that a solo traveler must room alone, they will be liable to pay 50% of the single supplement. Please note that in some rare cases, hotels are not able to provide single or even twin rooms owing to the sheer volume of tourists. In these cases, we ask for your understanding.
Food & Water
We stay in clean, safe places, and the food in the places we visit will be hygienically prepared, fresh, and cooked to suit a delicate digestive system. We will provide you with bottled water for drinking along the journey.
Health Concerns
We are mindful of the fluid situation with Covid-19 and continue to take precautions to avoid any unnecessary exposure where possible.
We carry a first aid kit with us, but many people prefer to bring their own medicine supply as you may not be able to purchase the same range of medications you are used to. If you take any prescription medications, we recommend you bring them in the original labeled packaging. We also suggest you include an insect/mosquito repellent and medicines for diarrhea and constipation.
Please let us know at the time of registration if you have any special dietary restrictions or medical needs.
What cultural considerations should I know?
For Western travelers visiting Vietnam and Cambodia, it's important to consider the unique cultural considerations of these Southeast Asian countries. The Vietnam/American War significantly impacted the cultures of both Vietnam and Cambodia. The war led to widespread destruction and displacement in Vietnam, and traditional cultural practices and values were often suppressed. The aftermath of the war has led to a renewed appreciation for Vietnam's cultural heritage and a desire to preserve it. While both Vietnam and Cambodia have taken great leaps forward in recent years, it will serve travelers well to be mindful and sensitive to the lasting effects when discussing the topic.
While English is spoken in tourist areas, it is not widely spoken throughout Southeast Asia. Transportation systems are developing and generally good, but they typically do not meet the same standards as in North America and Europe. We recommend travelers expect the unexpected! Rest assured, we will take every measure to ensure a smooth experience—your travel is by comfortable coach and your experienced guides will bridge any language gaps.
Vietnamese and Cambodian people are friendly and welcoming; visitors will likely encounter warm hospitality and genuine kindness. People tend to be respectful, friendly and family oriented. Packing your good sense of humor, flexibility, patience, and sense of adventure will stand you in good stead.
What is the cancellation policy?
For cancellations received up to eight weeks prior to the commencement of the tour, only the deposit will be forfeited. There is no refund for cancellations made within eight weeks of the beginning of the journey, 100% of the total cost will be forfeited.
What travel insurance will I need?
Participants are required to carry medical insurance. The range of coverage can vary significantly from policy to policy, and travelers are encouraged to speak with a travel agency to identify a policy that suits their needs. Things to consider are travel delays, trip cancellation or interruption, medical coverage, and baggage loss or delay. Before purchasing insurance, you may wish to check with your health insurance carrier to see if your policy includes medical care overseas. Please note that many insurance carriers require that insurance be purchased at the time a deposit or final payment is made; check with your carrier for details.
What happens upon arrival?
The journey will begin at 12 noon in Hanoi on December 1, 2024, with a complimentary airport transfer upon arrival.
For those coming only for the Cambodia Heaven on Earth-Angkor extension, arrival is at Siem Reap, Cambodia airport at midday on December 13. Participants are responsible for making all of their own international flight arrangements.
What happens upon departure?
Vietnam’s ‘Return to the Source’ journey ends on the morning of December 13, 2024, in Ho Chi Minh City.
Participants are responsible for booking all international flights which include booking from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap for those taking the optional Heaven on Earth extension to Cambodia.
We are happy to assist with the flight bookings. If you have any questions, feel free to check with us before you confirm your flight bookings. For international flights, tickets should be booked as early as possible.
The Cambodia Heaven on Earth Angkor extension ends on the morning of December 16, 2024, in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
We will arrange complimentary airport transfers for your departures on the last day of your journey.
(Information still to come: The Loas extension trip information)
Can I book extra nights?
For those wishing for an extra day or two to recover from air travel before the journey begins, or who wish to stay longer after the journey ends, we would be happy to book on your behalf.
What travel documents are required?
Passports should be valid for six months from the date of entry into Vietnam. You will need visas for Vietnam- Return to the Source trip and Cambodia -Heaven on Earth Extension. We recommend you make a photocopy of your passport and keep it somewhere separate, or scan it and keep it in an accessible email account in case of loss or theft.
Vietnam Visa: Visitors must have a visa before entering Vietnam, and a visa on arrival can only be obtained with a letter of approval. A visa on arrival is granted to many nationalities for stays of 15 days or less. Click here to learn more about visa requirements.
Otherwise, you must apply online for an e-visa or at the embassy for all 30-90 day single or multiple entry visas. We are happy to help if you have any questions. Please visit here to learn more about e-visas in Vietnam.
Cambodia e-Visa: The Kingdom of Cambodia enables citizens from most countries, who hold a passport that is valid for at least six (6) months, to apply for a visa online. Applicants must apply online at least four (4) days before travelling to the Kingdom of Cambodia. An e-Visa Cambodia once issued is valid for three (3) months from the date of issue. Please visit here to learn more about e-visas in Cambodia.
Once you have obtained your visa, please send us the details.
Will I need to bring money?
Hotels, food, transportation and guide services are all included by the tour fees. We suggest that travelers carry cash for expenses like gifts or souvenirs. Travelers will also need money if they plan to extend their stay before or after the journey. Credit cards such as VISA or American Express are widely accepted in hotels and large shops and there are ATMs in most locations where you can access cash.
We suggest bringing $ 500 USD in small denomination cash as it is widely accepted in Vietnam and Cambodia. One US dollar ≈ VND$23,585 as of March, 2023. There is no need to exchange money in your country and it is best to do so in Vietnam.
How does tipping work?
Travelers often have questions about tipping. We have developed a system where we collect a kitty at the beginning of the journey, and the tips are distributed from it (contributing is optional). This contribution covers all the incidental tipping/donations during the pilgrimage at hotels/restaurants etc. A tip for the guides and drivers is an optional addition to this kitty. Thus far, this has worked well. It usually works out to $10 to $15 per person per day. We recommend setting aside approximately $200 per person for tips.
If you arrive before the start of the journey or stay after it concludes, it is good to bring extra small denomination cash. While tipping in Vietnam is not expected or customary, the contribution is always appreciated.
Do I need a plug adaptor?
Vietnam uses 220 volts, 50 cycles AC. Plugs/sockets can be an issue (the electrical sockets have round holes and different frequencies than in USA and Canada, not flat ones, so please ensure that your plug has rounded stems). It’s best to travel with a universal plug adapter.
What should I pack?
Given that there can be variation between the daytime and evening temperatures (the general range is from 20 - 30°C/68 - 85°F), light layering is a practical approach. We recommend bringing one jacket and a light sweater for in the hills and in the evening; perhaps a shawl if you want to meditate in the morning.
For the warmer part of the day, cotton shirts, T-shirts, and trousers work well. An umbrella or a parasol is recommended for light rain and sharp sunshine. Modest dress is advisable, with legs and arms covered especially when visiting religious sites. Please bring comfortable sneakers or sandals (which you can wear with socks if it gets cold). There is no need to bring formal clothing.
We also visit temples where you will need to remove your shoes, so it is helpful to bring a pair of socks (the airline slip-ons are very convenient). Having a hat or cap to protect you from the sun is always useful. The free baggage allowance is 20 kilos (44 lbs.) of check-in baggage. Your cabin baggage limit is 5kgs, so we recommend that you travel light. Laundry facilities are available everywhere we stay, and laundry is usually returned within 24 hours.
Will I need vaccinations?
At present, it is not mandatory to be fully vaccinated for Covid-19 to travel to Vietnam but it is highly recommended for international travel. Governmental regulations change from time to time. We will keep you informed of the relevant changes as we go along.
There are no medical restrictions upon your entry into Vietnam. In addition to Covid-19 vaccinations, we recommend a Hepatitis A inoculation and a tetanus shot, but please speak to your physician for the most up-to-date requirements.
Can I use my mobile in Vietnam?
Another option for phone connection, if you do not wish to purchase a SIM card, is to utilize WhatsApp. In this case, all you will need to do is add the app to your device and your contacts, and you will be able to call and text when connected to Wifi. All of the hotels we visit will have reliable WIFI connections.
Are there any age restrictions?
Under-18s must be accompanied by an adult.
Day 9
Hoi An | Mỹ Sơn
Venturing on a day trip, we will visit Mỹ Sơn, a cluster of abandoned Hindu temples. Built by the kings of Champa, these enchanting ruins rise from the lush jungle mountainscape.
Day 13
Ho Chi Minh City | Siem Reap
We will close the Vietnam leg of the journey with a morning ceremony and farewells. For those who choose to continue onwards, we will fly to Siem Reap in Cambodia to explore the ruins of the Angkor Complex.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Day 13 (continued)
Siem Reap
After arriving at Siem Reap, Cambodia, we will transfer to our hotel and rest briefly before continuing to the stunning village on stilts, Kompong Phluk, in the afternoon.
TESTIMONIALS (“From Our Travelers”)
“Shantum's love of buddhadharma and in-depth historical understanding was a constant source of enrichment. For me, the value of an 'outer' pilgrimage is the ability to nourish the 'inner' pilgrimage – traveling with Shantum did just that.”
Larry Rosenberg, guide and teacher
Cambridge Insight Meditation Center, USA
“As a friend of Buddhist sanghas and communities, I was so happy that Shantum did not require me to be Buddhist to join. The nature of the journey is deeply spiritual, and everything that Shantum offers from Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings was eagerly received and nourished my soul. Shantum is a Master Teacher, Wise Counselor, and a beautiful dear friend. Participating in his traveling sangha will most likely lead to numerous life-altering experiences. As Mike Dooley often says, “Thoughts become things. Choose the good ones.” After four journeys with Shantum and his wonderful staff and, most recently, with his family, he’s one of the best.”
Aura Wright, participant
“It is a great joy to travel with like-minded people. “Back to the Source” with Shantum was a unique opportunity to visit Vietnam, the Land where Thich Nhat Hanh was born and get the chance to meet those wonderful Sangha friends, to visit those monasteries, great cultural and natural landscapes.”
Regula B., participant
“What was important to me was to be guided by someone with intimate knowledge of and sensitivity to the dharma, the sacred sites, the land and its people. Shantum Seth manifested this rare combination. For me, the pilgrimage was very rich and fulfilling. I will savor it for years.”
Eloise Ross-Jones., participant
“Shantum’s ability to coordinate scheduling, living accommodations, and transportation was impressive. His skill and knowledge as a guide are unsurpassed. He made the journey highly meaningful for me and my fellow travelers, all from the States. His passion for the history and teachings of the Buddha made the experience a life-changing one.”
Katharine Bertolet, participant
Day 16
Siem Reap (Departure)
The journey will end in the morning when you meet your guide to say farewell and transfer to the airport.
Take advantage of our Early Bird Pricing, available until 6 months prior to the trip departure date. Book now and enjoy a 5% discount on your trip!
Day 17
Luang Prabang – Mekong River
Day 18
Luang Prabang – Laos
Day 19
Departure
Day 16 (continued)
Luang Prabang – Laos
Laos | December 16-19, 2024