Best of Vietnam & Cambodia

Meet your guide and fellow tour companions in the hotel lobby at 6.00pm for a relaxed and informal welcome gathering. Following the meeting, immerse yourself in the bustling energy of Hanoi, where you have the option to join a tour group dinner or venture out to explore the lively night markets and vibrant streets that come alive after sundown! Rest comfortably as you spend the night in Hanoi, eager to embrace the adventures that lie ahead.

Spend an entire day exploring Hanoi's iconic landmarks, beginning with a visit to the impressive Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of Uncle Ho, where you'll gain valuable insights into his pure and noble way of life. Trace the city's rich history with a quick stop at a nearby historical lake featuring a B-52 relic, and listen to an untold story at a witness's home, revealing the local community's resilience and recovery from the war. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming side streets of "the village in town," immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and daily rhythm of life in this urban village. Engage in conversations facilitated by your guide with locals, providing insights into their peaceful days before rapid industrialization. Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, showcasing captivating 11th-century Vietnamese architecture. Experience the lively and social atmosphere of Hanoi on cyclo (rickshaw) rides through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, known as the "36 streets of 36 wares."

Today, embark on a scenic road journey to Ha Long Bay, a mesmerizing World Heritage Site renowned for its exceptional natural beauty, featuring 3,000 islands emerging from the crystal-clear emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. Travel through the fertile farmlands of the Red River Delta, where rice fields, water buffalo, and the daily life of Vietnamese villages unfold before your eyes. Upon reaching Ha Long, set foot on your cruise ship and savor a delightful lunch on board. As the boat glides through the serene emerald waters, surrounded by a myriad of rugged islands and impressive limestone karsts, a range of tours and activities awaits (depending on the vessel's schedule), including visits to stunning caves. As the day concludes, the boat finds its anchorage amidst the majestic karst formations, creating a tranquil and enchanting setting for the night. Optional Experience: Seaplane scenic flight over Ha Long Bay Embark on an exhilarating adventure to witness the captivating beauty of Halong Bay, a UNESCO-listed landscape, in a most thrilling manner. Soar through the skies aboard a scenic seaplane, flying amid limestone karsts and over sparkling beaches, offering a unique and awe-inspiring perspective of this renowned heritage site.

Commence your day with a tranquil Tai Chi session that harmonizes deep breathing and relaxation alongside slow, gentle movements. Relish a delightful breakfast in the dining room, offering a picturesque view of Ha Long Bay's landscape, complete with coffee, tea, and delectable pastries. While enjoying the fresh air of this enchanting bay, the boat gracefully cruises through its most serene and beautiful areas, eventually leading you back to the wharf. Around 10:30 am, prepare to disembark as your vehicle awaits, ready to transport you back to Ha Noi for your flight to Danang. Upon arriving in Da Nang, we proceed to the Hoian ancient town, where our hotel awaits, offering a leisurely and comfortable stay for the night in this charming and historically-rich destination.

Hoi An's Ancient Town, once a thriving port from the 15th to the 19th centuries, remains remarkably preserved, making it an essential destination to explore. This UNESCO World Heritage Site captivates visitors with its charming old tile-roofed shops, serene pagodas, and vibrant community halls. Embark on a guided walking tour through Hoi An's Ancient Town, where you'll admire its well-preserved architecture, pedestrian-only streets, and delectable local cuisine. This morning, pay a visit to a tea house that empowers individuals with disabilities, offering them meaningful employment and valuable social skills, fostering their integration into society. Optional Experience: Exploring Hoi An’s countryside in style Get ready to experience Hoi An from a unique perspective. Join your guide for an exciting vintage jeep ride, venturing into the lesser-known rural corners of this enchanting destination. As you traverse the picturesque countryside, you may encounter farmers tending to their rice fields alongside cows and buffalos or enjoying a moment of relaxation under the soothing shade. Discover the serenity of an island village, where the authentic Vietnamese way of life thrives.

Today, savor a picturesque coastal drive leading you to the Son Tra Peninsula. This verdant mountain, gracing the horizon with its lush greenery and crowned by a magnificent white statue at its peak, offers breathtaking views. As we journey around, keep an eye out for playful monkeys, while the coastal road treats you to sweeping vistas. Experience the awe-inspiring Hai Van Pass, where you'll be enchanted by the sight of lush mountains, clear blue skies, and the stunning Lang Co beach. Embark on a visit to a charming local fishing village, nestled between the deep mountains and the vast sky and ocean. Arrive in Hue around noon, and the afternoon is yours to explore as you please. Don't miss the renowned Dong Ba Market, where you can savor a delightful array of Hue's finest dishes in a casual yet sophisticated ambiance. At night, Rest comfortably and delightfully in Hue.

Discover the Imperial Citadel, the regal seat of Vietnam's last feudal dynasty from 1802 to 1945. Step into a world of palaces, pavilions, ceremonial grounds, and official audiences with civil mandarins. Your guide will unravel the historical events and captivating stories of the former royal court as you marvel at the exquisite royal architecture. Journey to the serene Royal Tu Duc tomb, ensconced within walls, embraced by pine woods, and adorned with a lakeside pavilion adorned with lotus blossoms. Next, visit the venerable Thien Mu Pagoda, a revered structure for religious worship, standing tall with its seven-storied tower built in 1601. Immerse yourself in Hue's authentic culture and way of life, as the city's garden houses welcome you with nostalgic architecture, a warm family ambiance, delectable delicacies, and the essence of traditional etiquette.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, complete the check-out process, and then proceed to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as "Saigon." Delve into the captivating history of the Cu Chi tunnels, an intricate underground network created by the Viet Cong to evade detection during the war. Engage in a compelling conversation with a VC veteran who once resided in these tunnels, gaining insight into the challenging life underground, marked by scarcity of oxygen, food, and water. To conclude the day with a thrill, embark on a speedboat adventure into town, traversing the canal that leads you through a picturesque journey.

Experience the bountiful Mekong Delta, renowned as the "rice bowl of Vietnam," boasting a network of canals, lush paddy fields, tropical fruit orchards, and thriving fish farms. This day trip transports you to Ben Tre, a gateway to the Mekong Delta, where you'll leave the bustling city behind and immerse yourself in the picturesque landscapes of rice paddies and fruit plantations along the way. Embark on a serene cruise down the Mekong River aboard the charming Apricot boat, a thoughtfully designed river barge inspired by local traditions. As you sail, admire the idyllic countryside and the vibrant riverside communities. Take delight in a tuk-tuk or bicycle ride through the tranquil village and experience a sampan ride along the labyrinth of small canals adorned with water coconut trees. Greeted warmly by the locals with "xin chao" or "hi," you'll feel the authentic charm of the region.

With your knowledgeable guide, embark on an enriching journey to explore the city's prominent landmarks, including the War Remnants Museum, which houses a captivating collection of photos and artifacts from the past. Visit the historic Reunification Palace, once the residence of the Indochina Governor-General and later the President of the Republic of Southern Vietnam. Enjoy the freedom to wander through the renowned Dong Khoi area, where you'll find the legendary Continental Hotel, immortalized by Graham Greene in his novel "The Quiet American," along with an array of popular restaurants, bars, and boutiques. Take a moment to unwind at a coffee shop that once served as a safe haven and weapon chamber during the Vietnam War, immersing yourself in the rich history of the location. Not far from downtown Ho Chi Minh lies Cho Lon, a vibrant and culturally significant Chinatown. Stroll through bustling streets, catching glimpses of daily life, and experience the authentic street atmosphere as you navigate through Cho Lon's busiest areas.

Depart from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh city and head to the airport for a brief flight to Siem Reap. Siem Reap is renowned for its trendy boutiques and artistic studios and awaits your exploration this afternoon. Immerse yourself in the world of traditional Cambodian art at Artisan d'Angkor, a social enterprise empowering young people from rural areas with training in Cambodian arts and crafts. Later, experience a serene and sacred moment by receiving blessings from the monks at a tranquil riverside pagoda. As they chant blessings and sprinkle holy water and flowers, a sacred thread will be tied around your wrist, offering protection from evil spirits and accidents. At night, est and unwind overnight in Siem Reap.

The Angkor Archaeological Park holds immense cultural significance in Cambodia. Today, seize every moment to explore the wonders of the Angkor complex alongside your knowledgeable guide, who will lead you through remote trails to avoid the crowds. Discover the modern wonder of the world, Angkor Wat, masterfully constructed by King Suryavarman II in the 12th century as a dedication to the Hindu god Vishnu. The bas-reliefs adorned with hundreds of exquisite carvings depicting Hindu mythology are a must-see. At Ta Prohm, famously featured in Tomb Raider, be mesmerized by the enchanting combination of ruins entwined with the lush jungle. Optional Experience: Sunset cruise on Royal Gondola boat Later today, head to the discreet bank situated within the ancient moat of Angkor Thom, where you'll embark on a distinctive waterway journey aboard an Angkor Gondola boat. Glide over the serene and enchanting lake of the South Gate, savoring a leisurely experience that grants you insights into the untouched historical and cultural treasures of centuries past. Optional Experience: Khmer food tasting experience Tonight, reserve your appetite for an exclusive street food excursion led by a knowledgeable local food enthusiast, allowing you to delve into the world of Khmer cuisine. Hop on a local tuk-tuk and make your way to the bustling night market, where you'll be treated to a delightful array of sights, aromas, and tastes, featuring an enticing selection of authentic local delicacies.

Embark on an off-the-beaten-path expedition today, venturing to the remote outer temples to escape the crowds. First on the itinerary is the Citadel of Women, a significant 10th-century red sandstone temple dedicated to Shiva. Adorned with intricate carvings, this temple stands as one of Angkor's most important and well-preserved structures. Next, we'll make a stop at the Hindu temple of Banteay Samre, often likened to a miniature version of Angkor Wat, showcasing its unique 12th-century architecture. Prepare for a one-of-a-kind historical journey as we delve into the tumultuous period of Khmer Rouge rule in Cambodia (from 1975 to 1979). Engage in conversations with native Khmers in their remote village homes, listening to firsthand accounts of life during and after the Pol Pot era.

After a satisfying breakfast, the day is yours to explore and savor the last moments of your unforgettable journey before we arrange your smooth transfer to the airport for your departing flight.