Highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia

Upon arrival, we settle into our hotel and prepare to explore the city of Hanoi.

As evening falls, we gather for a traditional Water Puppet Show, a delightful performance where wooden puppets dance across the water, bringing centuries-old folk tales to life.

Begin your day with a guided city walking tour of Hanoi, exploring historic landmarks and hidden alleys. Dive into local culture, and colonial architecture. Later, relax on a cyclo ride through the bustling Old Quarter, soaking in vibrant streets, markets, and traditional shop houses for an authentic Hanoi experience.

This morning, we set out for one of Asia’s most breathtaking natural wonders — the awe-inspiring limestone karst landscape of Lan Ha Bay. Located just south of the famed Halong Bay, Lan Ha is its quieter, more pristine sister — a hidden paradise of emerald waters, secluded coves, and forested limestone peaks rising dramatically from the sea. Its calm waters make it perfect for kayaking, swimming, or simply drifting along and soaking in the serenity of this otherworldly seascape.

We board our cruise and settle into our elegant cabins as the vessel begins gliding through the maze of towering limestone islands. A delicious Vietnamese lunch awaits us, where every window frames a cinematic view of the bay. We cruise deeper into the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay, where dramatic limestone karsts rise from the sea in a stunning natural panorama. Continue to the quieter Ong Cam area, an unspoiled corner of the bay, perfect for kayaking or swimming in clear, calm waters.

Return to the cruise and anchor for the night. Enjoy a hands-on cooking demonstration, learning to prepare traditional Vietnamese spring rolls, followed by a relaxed sunset party on the sundeck with local wine and fresh fruits.

In the evening, savour a delicious dinner featuring regional specialties prepared by the onboard chefs. Afterward, unwind at leisure — relax in the cabin, try night fishing, enjoy a drink at the bar, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere before an overnight stay on board.

Kindly note that the cruise itinerary may vary based on weather conditions and the cruise operator’s seasonal schedule.

We start the day watching the sunrise over the bay, taking in the breathtaking panorama as the light dances across limestone peaks and emerald waters. After a light breakfast with tea and coffee, we glide toward the heart of Halong Bay, where hidden wonders await. Boarding small rowing boats, we explore the mysterious Dark & Bright Cave and nearby islets, immersing ourselves in the wild beauty of this World Heritage landscape.

Back on the cruise, we relax and savor a leisurely brunch before disembarking at Tuan Chau International Marina.

From here, we transfer to Hanoi for our flight to Da Nang International Airport. Upon arrival, we are transferred to our hotel in Hue. The rest of the day is free for us to unwind, perhaps with a quiet stroll along the Perfume River or a relaxing evening in Hue’s laid-back ambiance.

Today, we hop on our bikes to explore Hue, Vietnam’s historic “purple city,” weaving through the peaceful countryside and uncovering hidden corners that reveal the charm of this imperial capital.

As we pedal along, we follow quiet lanes lined with lush gardens, past traditional merchant houses, and alongside the tranquil Perfume River. We pass iconic landmarks like the Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the royal mausoleums, taking in their grandeur and rich history. At our own pace, we soak up the rhythm of local life, glimpsing daily activities in the streets and villages, making this a leisurely yet immersive way to experience Hue’s timeless beauty.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we leave Hue and embark on a scenic drive to Hoi An. The journey is a feast for the eyes- skimming past Lang Co Bay, where turquoise waters lap against pristine white sands and wooden fishing boats drift gently. We climb the winding Hai Van Pass, taking in sweeping vistas of mountains, forests, waterfalls, and the ocean, before descending into the charming streets of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage town that exudes timeless beauty.

Upon arrival, we dive into a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class, learning traditional recipes and techniques. Together, we prepare and savor local dishes, connecting with the flavors, aromas, and culture of central Vietnam in a truly immersive and delicious experience.

We set out on a guided walking tour through the narrow lanes of Hoi An’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, once a thriving trading port from the 15th to 19th century. As we stroll through pedestrian-only streets, we pass beautifully preserved temples, merchant houses, and pagodas that reflect French, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences.

We walk across the historic Japanese Covered Bridge, listening to stories of its 400-year-old legacy, before continuing to the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation to admire its intricate wood carvings and architectural detail.

Our walk concludes at the vibrant local market, where we weave through stalls filled with colorful wares, spices, and exotic fruits. We also explore the famous silk section and tailoring area, where Hoi An’s craftsmanship comes to life.

We start the day with a transfer to Da Nang Airport for our flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival in Saigon, we settle into our hotel and prepare to explore the city.

In the evening, we hop on vintage Vespas for a thrilling evening tour through the city’s lively neighborhoods. Riding through glowing streets, we stop to savor local delicacies, enjoy drinks, and soak in live music, experiencing firsthand the rhythm and spirit of Saigon after dark. This adventure combines culture, cuisine, and excitement, offering us an unforgettable glimpse into the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Note: Vietnam Airlines may adjust schedules without notice, so departures from Hoi An could be earlier or later than planned. We appreciate your flexibility.

We depart from Ho Chi Minh City in the morning, driving through scenic countryside dotted with rice fields and rubber plantations en route to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels.

Upon arrival, we explore the vast underground network, learning about its role during the war while discovering hidden entrances, trapdoors, and compact living spaces. We also have the option to crawl through a short tunnel section for a more immersive experience. We return to the city, reflecting on this fascinating and educational journey.

We journey south to Can Tho, the cultural heart of the Mekong Delta, where life flows along an intricate network of rivers and canals. Upon arrival, we settle into our hotel and ease into the slower rhythm of the delta.

Later, we visit the elegant Binh Thuy Ancient House, a beautifully preserved residence that reflects a blend of French and Vietnamese architectural influences. The rest of the day is kept relaxed—perfect for a gentle stroll along the riverfront or simply unwinding at the hotel as you prepare for an early start the next day.

We begin before sunrise to witness the Mekong Delta at its most vibrant. By motorboat, we glide through the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market, where traders gather with boats laden with fresh produce, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s river-based way of life.

After returning to the hotel for breakfast, we continue our journey to Chau Doc, a quiet border town near Cambodia known for its cultural diversity and laid-back charm. The remainder of the day is at leisure—an opportunity to relax, enjoy the hotel, or explore the town at your own pace.

We begin our day in Chau Doc, boarding a speedboat for a scenic journey along the Mekong River towards Cambodia. As we cruise upstream, we pass riverside villages, fishing boats, and lush delta landscapes, offering a final glimpse into life along this storied waterway.

En route, we complete border formalities at the Vietnam–Cambodia river crossing before continuing onward to Phnom Penh. Arriving by early afternoon, we transfer to our hotel and settle in.

We then set out to explore the cultural and historical heart of the city, beginning with a visit to the renowned National Museum of Cambodia, home to an impressive collection of Khmer art and artifacts. We continue to the sobering Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, gaining insight into Cambodia’s recent history.

Later in the afternoon, we visit Wat Phnom, the city’s iconic hilltop temple, where we enjoy a peaceful walk before returning to our hotel.

We begin our morning with a visit to the poignant Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, where we gain a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s history and reflect on its past. This powerful experience offers insight into the resilience of the Cambodian people.

In the evening, we embark on a private tuk-tuk food tour through Siem Reap, exploring vibrant streets and local markets. We walk through bustling alleys near the Old Market, sampling authentic Khmer dishes and local beer. Continuing to the lively Road 60, we enjoy a variety of street food—from grilled meats to exotic fruits—before ending the evening with a traditional Cambodian drink and returning to our hotel.

We begin our day in Phnom Penh with a short flight to Siem Reap, the gateway to the temples of Angkor. Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel and settle in.

The rest of the day is at leisure—an opportunity to unwind after the journey, enjoy the hotel’s comforts, or explore Siem Reap at your own pace. You may choose to visit a local café, stroll through the town’s charming streets, or simply relax in preparation for the experiences ahead.

We get on a a scenic drive through the countryside from Siem Reap to the exquisite Banteay Srei, often referred to as the “Citadel of Women.” Renowned for its intricate pink sandstone carvings, the temple showcases some of the finest artistry of the Angkor period.

As we explore the temple, we admire its detailed reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and learn about its historical significance. En route, we may stop at local villages to observe traditional crafts and rural life. After soaking in the beauty and cultural richness, we return to Siem Reap, concluding a memorable day.

Today's day begins early in the morning from Siem Reap, heading to the magnificent Angkor Wat to witness its grandeur in the soft morning light. As we explore the temple, we admire its intricate bas-reliefs and iconic towers.

We continue to Angkor Thom, where we visit the enigmatic Bayon Temple, known for its serene stone faces. Our journey then takes us to Ta Prohm, where ancient ruins intertwine with towering tree roots. After a full day of exploration, we return to Siem Reap, enriched by the history and beauty of Angkor.

After breakfast, we conclude our journey and prepare for our onward departure.