Mekong Cruise: Vietnam & Cambodia

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Siem Reap

  Upon your arrival in Siem Reap, a popular city in northwestern Cambodia, you will be warmly welcomed and escorted to your hotel.

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• Day 2: Siem Reap, Angkor Thom With a Sunset Cruise

  Within the ancient walls of the Great City of Angkor Thom lie magnificent monuments constructed between the 9th and 15th centuries. Begin your exploration early this morning to avoid the crowds and fully immerse yourself in the site's grandeur.

  Be sure to visit the Bayon Temple at the city center, where the iconic stone faces smile serenely from numerous towers. Nearby, the Elephant Terrace stands as a testament to the might of King Jayavarman VII, the most powerful of the Khmer monarchs, who welcomed his victorious army here.

  During the day's heat, retreat to your hotel for some relaxation. As dusk falls, set out once more for a leisurely cruise along the expansive moat of Angkor Thom. With the twilight sun casting a golden glow over the Great City, savor the moment with a glass of champagne.

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• Day 3: Siem Reap, Angkor Wat & Ta Prohm

  Focus today on Angkor Wat, the majestic Temple City of the Khmer Empire and the national emblem of Cambodia. This iconic site, one of the country's most revered pilgrimage destinations, played a vital role in Cambodia's conversion to Buddhism. Spend your morning exploring the magnificent temple complex, marveling at the intricate bas-reliefs that tell the stories of ancient civilizations. For photography enthusiasts, the splendid sunrise over Angkor Wat is an experience that cannot be missed.

  Next, venture to Ta Prohm, also known as the Tomb Raider Temple. Enveloped by the powerful roots of ancient banyan trees, this site offers a glimpse into how Angkor's temples appeared when European explorers first discovered them. Have the rest of today relaxing at the hotel or continue with your guide to explore the old market of Siem Reap.

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• Day 4: Siem Reap Free Day

  It is a leisure day for you to experience Siem Reap like a local. Explore the city at your own pace - ride a bike through bustling streets, visit vibrant local markets, savor delicious street food, or engage in conversations with the friendly locals to learn more about their customs and daily life.

  For a more thrilling adventure, consider taking a helicopter tour to admire the impressive scale of the Angkor Archaeological Park from the sky.

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• Day 5: Siem Reap - Kampong Cham, Start the Mekong Cruise

  After checking out from your hotel in the morning, take a scenic ride to the dock at Kampong Cham. Here, you'll board your floating retreat and begin an exciting voyage that will take you to the Mekong Delta in Vietnam.

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• Day 6: Mekong Cruise: Opopel Village, Wat Roka Kaong

  This morning, you'll visit the quaint village of Opopel, where stilted houses and Brahim cows resting under banana trees evoke a timeless rural charm. Experience daily life as you visit a local family and join children in their classroom for a typical Cambodian school day. A stroll through the village offers photo opportunities before a brief stop at a local monastery on the way back.

  In the afternoon, explore Wat Roka Kaong, a temple complex dating back to 1840. Partially renovated in 1998, the site is home to an emerald statue believed to be over 180 years old, giving the temple its alternate name, Wat KeoMoni Chort (Emerald). Wander the complex, including two towering Golden Buddhist Columns, and end your visit with a traditional water blessing from monks in the vibrant Main Pagoda.

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• Day 7: Mekong Cruise: Choeung Ek Memorial, Free Afternoon

  In the morning, delve into a poignant chapter of Cambodia's history with a visit to the Choeung Ek Memorial. After a scenic 45-minute drive, you'll explore the fields, museum, and Buddhist stupa, gaining insight into the Khmer Rouge era.

  Next, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former school repurposed as a prison during that tumultuous period. In the afternoon, explore Phnom Penh at your own pace. You can shop at the local markets, savor the flavors at neighborhood restaurants, or discover the city's unique charm independently.

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• Day 8: Mekong Cruise: Phnom Penh Highlights

  After breakfast on board, you'll be greeted by a Tuk-Tuk driver at the pier for a captivating morning tour of Phnom Penh's top attractions. Begin with a scenic ride along the riverfront to the Royal Palace complex, the official residence of the King of Cambodia. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the palace grounds, marveling at the grandeur of the Throne Hall and the Moonlight Pavilion. Continue to the renowned Silver Pagoda, which houses Cambodia's Emerald Buddha and the Maitreya Buddha, adorned with over 9,000 diamonds.

  Next, the Tuk Tuk will whisk you away to the National Museum, Cambodia's largest museum dedicated to cultural history. Explore its extensive collection of Khmer art and ceramics, featuring artifacts from the Angkor Temple complex in Siem Reap and other significant sites around the country.

  After your return to the ship, the afternoon is yours to explore Phnom Penh at your leisure. In the evening, enjoy pre-dinner cultural entertainment on the Sun Deck, where local children will delight you with performances of Apsara, the traditional Khmer dance, and other folk dances.

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• Day 9: Mekong Cruise: Relax on Board

  Today, sail downstream from Phnom Penh towards the Cambodia - Vietnam border. As you relax on board, take in the scenic views of the Mekong River during a leisurely cruise. On board, delight yourself in various cultural activities, such as sampling tropical fruits, observing a demonstration of Vietnamese spring roll making, and experiencing an introduction to traditional Cambodian costumes.

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• Day 10: Mekong Cruise: Villages Near the Border

  This morning, journey by sampan to Long Khanh A, an island village near the Vietnam - Cambodia border, renowned for its traditional Khmer scarves. You'll have the chance to observe the intricate weaving process beneath several houses. Some villagers are also skilled in embroidery, showcasing their beautiful work in and around their homes. Before returning to the sampans, take a peaceful walk through this lush island and visit the home of a local war veteran.

  After a leisurely lunch on board, set out again by sampan to explore My An Hung, a typical farming village in the Mekong Delta. Strolling through the verdant landscape, you'll have the opportunity to engage with the friendly locals and savor fresh coconut in a garden setting. A welcoming family will invite you to enjoy honey tea and fresh fruit while you listen to the traditional melodies of "don ca tai tu" folk music. The experience culminates with an impressive VOVINAM martial arts presented by the village's talented youth.

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• Day 11: Mekong Cruise: Sa Dec - Cai Be - My Tho

  Embark on a shore excursion to Sa Dec, beginning with a scenic sampan ride through the narrow Mekong canals, where you'll observe the daily lives of local villagers. Upon arrival in the historic town, visit the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, the muse for Marguerite Duras' novel L’Amant (The Lover), and explore the Kien An Cung Temple, built in honor of the Huynh Thuy Le family. A stroll through its lively market full of colorful fresh produce offers a sensory experience.

  In Cai Be, enjoy a rowing boat ride through the picturesque canals of the Mekong Delta. Your journey continues by sampan to a cottage factory where artisans craft rice paper, rice wine, and popped rice. Browse through postcards, souvenirs, and oil paintings before cruising the narrow canals of Cai Be, capturing photos of rice barges, mills, and traditional cottages.

  Return to the ship for a refreshing sunset cruise to My Tho Marina. In the evening, gather on the Sun Deck for a Farewell Reception with the crew, followed by a Vietnamese Farewell Dinner.

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• Day 12: Cruise End, My Tho - Ho Chi Minh City

  Disembark from your floating resort at My Tho and journey by land to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's bustling financial hub, still affectionately known as Saigon.

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• Day 13: Half-Day Ho Chi Minh City Tour

  Gain insight into Saigon's turbulent history as you explore the city with your guide. Visit some of its best-preserved French colonial landmarks, including the Opera House, City Hall, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Central Post Office.

  The afternoon is yours to unwind at your hotel or visit the War Remnants Museum for a deeper understanding of the Vietnam War. For those eager to experience the city's vibrant nightlife, consider an evening foodie tour by vintage Vespa, where you can savor Saigon's night charm.

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• Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City, Departure

  Conclude your Indochina tour with a hearty breakfast at your hotel and then take the private transfer to the airport for your homebound flight.

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