Essential Cambodia & Vietnam

On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Phnom Penh is the vibrant bustling capital of Cambodia, situated at the confluence of three rivers, the mighty Mekong, the Bassac and the great Tonle Sap.  It was a hub for both the Khmer Empire and French colonialists and is still evident today with French colonial mansions and tree-lined boulevards amidst monumental Angkorian architecture.

Along the riverfront, lined with parks, restaurants and bars, are the ornate Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, displaying artefacts from around the country. Other places of interest include the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum, the Choeng Ek Killing Fields and Wat Phnom or a visit to the cities large art deco Psar Thmei or Central Market.

This afternoon take a city tour by cyclo, including the City Palace and Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum with its spectacular Khmer masterpieces. (B)

This morning fly to Siem Reap, the gateway to the temples of Angkor.

Set along the Siem Reap River, this small provincial capital offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities such as well-preserved colonial buildings, Chinese-style shophouses, museums, traditional markets, and cultural performances.

This afternoon, explore the jungle-shrouded city of Angkor Thom, including the mysterious giant faces of Bayon. (B)

This morning take a remork (Tuk Tuk) into the Angkor complex.

Angkor Wat is the most famous ancient temple site in Cambodia, located on the outskirts of Siem Reap. One of the world's ancient wonders this UNESCO World Heritage site was once the largest pre-industrial city in the world. Spanning over 400 km2, including forested area, Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century. They include the famous Temple of Angkor Wat and, at Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations. Angkor is one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia.

You will visit Ta Prohm, where huge tree roots smother temple structures. After lunch, continue to Angkor Wat, the 12th century Khmer masterpiece. (B)

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). On arrival transfer to your hotel and enjoy your evening at leisure.

Once tagged as the Pearl of the Orient by French, today it is a great blend of little chaos and peace with sky scrapers, historic buildings, pagodas, war-related museums and ancient structures all nestled on the banks of Saigon River.

Well-known for its street food, the city is also filled with rooftop bars that overlook Saigon and beyond, while fantastic restaurants offer a combination of French, Chinese, and, of course, local Vietnamese cuisine. (B)

This morning tour Saigon’s chaotic Chinatown. The city has a constant buzz with millions of scooters and people on the go navigating their way through the cities crowded streets and tiny hidden alleyways.

As you explore, you will see remnants of its past visible in its historic landmarks and beautiful French colonial buildings. This modern city fuses this well with the culture side including Oriental style pagodas, ancient temples and traditional markets.

You will visit the Thien Hau Pagoda and a museum dedicated to traditional medicine. Later tour either the War Remnants or History Museum, visit the Reunification Palace, and walk the historic streets of District One. (B)

Today drive to Cai Be for a boat tour of Vietnam’s rice and fruit bowl, the Mekong Delta. Pass by trading boats laden with fresh produce while cruising past river islands, coconut groves, and fish farms.

Alight on one of the local islands and cycle through lush fruit farms. Sample some of the local produce and enjoy a fresh Mekong lunch. (B)(L)

This morning fly to Danang, then transfer to Hoi An. This charming historic town is World Heritage-listed, with its old town architecture strictly protected. Take a walking tour, visiting the Japanese Covered Bridge, old shophouses, and a Chinese community hall. (B)

Today is free to enjoy and explore the town or nearby beach. (B)

This morning depart Hoi An and travel north to Hue through beautiful coastal scenery. Check-in to your hotel and later tour some of Hue’s favorite sites – the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda which features a serene Buddhist center perched above the Perfume River. (B)

Visit the rambling Dong Ba markets then visit two of the former Nguyen Dynasty emperors’ tombs. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Hanoi, Vietnam’s historic capital. (B)

This morning depart by road for Halong Bay and board your boat for an overnight stay. The bay is home to thousands of limestone islets, providing magnificent scenery as you slowly cruise its calm channels. (B)(L)(D)

Rise early to see the sunrise on the Bay. Disembark late morning and drive back to Hanoi. This afternoon visits the Ethnology Museum and takes a walk through the lively Old Quarter – Hanoi’s trading center for centuries. (B)

After breakfast, tour the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s oldest university. Also, see the city’s iconic One Pillar Pagoda and the former house of Ho Chi Minh. Depending on your departure flight time, enjoy some free time before transferring to the airport. (B)