Vietnam & Laos
Expedition Dates:
Cost:
Ages:
Worldwide youth ages 15-19Trip Pace:
ModeratePhysical Activity:
ModerateHighlights:
Cu Chi Tunnels, Hoi An, Cooking class, Custom tailoring, Phong Nha, Halong Bay, Overnight cruise, Kuang Si Falls, Luang Prabang, Hot air balloon, Kayaking, Caves, ATVsVaccine Requirements:
NoneVisa Requirement:
International Airport:
About This Trip
Step into the stories of the Vietnam War as you crawl through the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels and explore museums that bring history to life. Wander the lantern-lit streets of the ancient town of Hoi An, glide through peaceful coconut forests in traditional basket boats, master authentic Vietnamese cuisine during a hands-on cooking class, and have custom clothing handcrafted just for you.
Venture into the spectacular caves of Phong Nha National Park before setting sail on an unforgettable overnight cruise through the emerald waters and towering limestone islands of Halong Bay, one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Kayak among dramatic karst islands, explore hidden caves, and wake to an unforgettable sunrise on the bay.
Cross into the mountains of Laos, where you’ll ride one of Southeast Asia’s newest high-speed railways through stunning countryside, swim beneath the brilliant turquoise waters of Kuang Si Falls, take part in a traditional Baci blessing ceremony, and experience the charm of Luang Prabang’s vibrant night markets.
Your adventure culminates in Vang Vieng, where you’ll soar above towering limestone peaks in a sunrise hot air balloon before kayaking scenic rivers, exploring hidden caves and blue lagoons, and racing ATVs through one of Southeast Asia’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.
From ancient cities and floating lanterns to world-famous caves, emerald bays, and unforgettable adventures, Vietnam and Laos is a journey filled with once-in-a-lifetime experiences you’ll never forget.
YOUR TRIP LEADER
Justin Bowen
Even though Justin dreamed of being a sheep herder in New Zealand when he grew up, he is a photographer by trade and has led hundreds of youth across the globe with National Geographic for nearly 10 years and 12 years with youth who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with Illuminate Youth Trips. He has worked with the industry greats including Canon, National Geographic, Spin Magazine, and has photographed many stars including Taylor Swift, Britney Spears, Michael Jordan, and Paul McCartney.
He is oddly obsessed with everything penguin, won’t eat vegetables to save his life, has an affinity for swimming in arctic waters next to his favorite natural wonder that are icebergs. He is a wizard at creating once in a lifetime itineraries and often works his best magic with the help of a few hundred Instagram searches at 2am. Justin’s the guy who woke up one morning and realized that he had visited all seven continents in the span of eight months without consciously trying. Justin’s passion for the world, the youth, and life in general is contagious and captivating.
Justin is the co-founder of a non-profit organization, ROAM Humanitarian, giving adults and families meaningful humanitarian experiences around the world.
Justin met his wife Lindsay when he was 14 years old and after over 20 years of marriage still has any adventure with her and their four incredible children at the top of his bucket list. Justin’s world goes round from Heber Valley, Utah which is remarkably beautiful enough to get this wanderer to plant roots and call Utah home.