The construction of a high-speed rail line that links China and Laos will start early next year and is scheduled to open in 2014, according to reports by wire agencies, Laotian deputy prime minister Somsavat Lengsavad.

A north-to-south Vietnam package highlights many of Vietnam’s most historic cities, including 3 world heritage sites at Halong Bay, Hue and Hoi An.

Destination: Hanoi, Vietnam
Activity: Arts & Culture, Boat travel, Historical site visits
Price: start from $1,263 per person (until 31 Dec 2011)
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Venture back into Vietnam’s ancient cities of Hue and Hoi’an. Also discover the history and mystery of the Cham people at Danang city.

Destination: Hue, Vietnam
Activity: Arts & Culture, Historical sites, Beach
Price: start from $404 per person (until 30 Sep 2011)
Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

Explore Vietnam through its memorable landmarks and world heritage sites in two weeks. Begin tracing back the country’s age-old history and legacies with the former capital of Hanoi and go all the way down to the present thriving metropolis, Ho Chi Minh City.

Destination: Hanoi, Vietnam
Activity: Arts & Culture, Beach, Boat travel, Historical places, Nature
Price: start from $1,597 per person (until 30 Sep 2011)
Duration: 13 Days / 12 Nights

Discover the world heritage city of Hoi An. Explore local villages and the slow pace of life along the river.

Destination: Hoi An, Vietnam
Activity: Arts & Culture, Beach
Price: start from $352 per person (until 30 Sept 2011)
Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights