Vietnam and Cambodia Discovery

Welcome to Vietnam!

After settling into our hotel, we dive straight into the vibrant energy of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Together, we explore its bustling streets, where scooters weave through colorful markets, street vendors serve up sizzling local delights, and traditional shops showcase the city’s unique charm. In the afternoon, we experience a captivating Water Puppet Show, bringing centuries-old folk tales to life on glimmering water. To round off our day, we take a leisurely cyclo ride, soaking in the sights, sounds, and pulse of the city from a classic Vietnamese rickshaw. We end our first evening with a delicious welcome dinner, savoring the rich flavors and aromas of authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

We leave the bustling city behind and set out by shuttle of 2.5 hours to the serene waters of Lan Ha Bay, a quieter, more untouched neighbor to Halong Bay, where dramatic limestone karsts rise from emerald waters. Upon arrival, we check into our overnight cruise and are welcomed with a refreshing drink as we meet the captain and crew and receive a brief safety introduction.

As we glide through the bay, we savor a delicious Vietnamese lunch featuring fresh seafood and local specialties, all while soaking in the stunning scenery of Islets of Con Vit. The cruise continues toward the Ong Cam area of Lan Ha Bay, a tranquil corner of the bay where we can kayak through calm waters for an hour or swim in crystal-clear lagoons, surrounded by striking limestone formations.

Back on board, we freshen up and join a hands-on cooking demonstration, learning to make traditional Vietnamese spring rolls and enjoy a complimentary Sunset Party on the sundeck with local wine and fresh fruits.

As the sun dips behind the karsts, we toast the day at the Sunset Party on the sundeck, enjoying local wine and fresh fruit. Dinner is served in the onboard restaurant, featuring freshly prepared local dishes. Afterward, we can relax in our cabin, try our hand at fishing, catch a movie, enjoy a drink at the bar, or play onboard games, drifting off to sleep with the gentle sway of the bay beneath us.

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 and catch our flight to Da Nang, followed by a drive to Hoi An. In the evening, we wander through the enchanting Lantern Trail of Hoi An’s Old Town. Streets lined with glowing lanterns, riverside cafés, Chinese assembly halls, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge create a magical, timeless atmosphere. We can explore at our own pace, sample local delicacies, or shop for silk and handicrafts, soaking in the town’s serene charm and rich heritage.

Today, we immerse ourselves in the charm of Hoi An’s countryside, blending gentle adventure with authentic local experiences. We begin with a 30-kilometer cycling loop through lush rice paddies, palm-lined paths, and quiet villages where artisans and farmers go about their day. The peaceful rhythm of rural life unfolds as we ride past shrimp farms and scenic waterways.

Our journey takes us to Tra Que Herb Village, famous for its aromatic herbs and organic gardens. Here, we meet local farmers, try our hand at rice paper making, and unwind with a herbal foot massage and refreshing drink.

Next, we join a hands-on cooking class, learning to prepare traditional dishes such as Tam Huu (spring rolls) and Banh Xeo (crispy pancakes). After enjoying our meal, we cycle leisurely back through the countryside, returning to the hotel by mid-afternoon with time to relax or explore Hoi An at our own pace.

This morning, we take a short flight from Vietnam to Siem Reap, the vibrant gateway to Cambodia’s awe-inspiring Angkor temples. Upon arrival, we settle into our hotel, our base for the next few nights. The afternoon is ours to relax — perhaps lounging by the pool, sipping a drink on the terrace, or simply soaking in the serene surroundings of this enchanting town.

As evening falls, we come together for a welcome dinner featuring authentic Khmer cuisine, paired with a mesmerizing Apsara dance performance at the Apsara Theatre. The dancers, adorned in glittering costumes, bring the mythical Apsaras of the ancient Khmer epic Reamker to life, weaving stories of grace, legend, and tradition. This elegant introduction sets the tone for our Cambodian adventure, blending culture, history, and the timeless artistry that defines Siem Reap.

Today, we embark on an extraordinary adventure through the legendary temples of Angkor. On our bicycles, we glide along shaded forest paths, passing ancient stone gates entwined with creeping vines and temples slowly merging with the jungle. Our route covers around 30 kilometers, revealing the highlights of the Angkor Archaeological Park.

We marvel at the majestic spires and intricate bas-reliefs of Angkor Wat, take in the serene, smiling faces of Bayon Temple, and wander beneath the enormous tree roots that embrace the walls of Ta Prohm, a scene that feels like stepping into another world. Cycling between temples lets us soak in the atmosphere fully, pausing whenever a hidden carving or quiet shrine captures our attention. We pause for a traditional Khmer lunch before returning to our hotel, hearts and minds enriched by the beauty and history of this remarkable place.

This morning, we embark on a memorable 12-kilometer hike across the sacred slopes of Mount Kulen, a site steeped in Cambodia’s spiritual legacy. Our journey begins in the village of Anlung Thom, meandering through tranquil hamlets, cashew groves, and lush forest patches. Along the way, we encounter hidden ruins and ancient kilns, remnants of a pre-Angkorian civilization recently uncovered by archaeologists. We explore forgotten temples such as Perng Eysei and Damrei Krab, and pause at the serene Preah Kral pagoda. Midway, we enjoy a picnic lunch at Srah Damrei, surrounded by 10th-century stone carvings of elephants and lions guarding the ridge.

After lunch, we travel by van to Preah Ang Thom, home to the revered Reclining Buddha and a sacred pilgrimage site for locals. From here, we walk to the “Thousand Lingas,” a riverbed adorned with ancient carvings believed to bless the land. We conclude the day at a tranquil waterfall, where we can cool off and reflect on a journey rich in culture, nature, and spiritual discovery before returning to our hotel.

After breakfast, your adventure wraps up. Depending on flight schedule, we might have time for one last stroll through Siem Reap before heading to the airport.