As the Nile is to Egypt, so is the Mekong to Thailand and Laos. Navigate the less-traveled Upper Mekong with art historian Christopher Noey, cruising the river that shaped Southeast Asian civilization for millennia aboard the luxurious Anouvong. In Bangkok, stay at the Four Seasons overlooking the Chao Phraya River and enjoy guided looks at sacred treasures such as the Grand Palace's Emerald Buddha. Savor Michelin-starred Royal Thai cuisine during a special dinner. Fly to Luang Prabang and ring in 2026 with an authentic Laotian dinner in a festive setting. Go behind the scenes of Luang Prabang's UNESCO-listed temples, gilded palaces, fascinating craft workshops, royal museum collections, and French colonial architecture. In Luang Prabang, board the 14-cabin Anouvong for three nights. Arrive in remote villages to meet local scholars at the Buddha-filled Pak Ou Caves and learn silk-weaving techniques from master artisans in riverside communities. In Thailand's Golden Triangle, observe elephants wandering freely during an unforgettable stay at a 160-acre bamboo forest sanctuary.