Delve Deep: Vietnam & Cambodia 2022-23
Delve Deep: Vietnam & Cambodia 2022-23
Delve Deep: Vietnam & Cambodia 2022-23
17 Days Starting in Hanoi and ending in Siem Reap
Visiting: Hanoi, Hạ Long Bay, Hội An, Phan Rang–Tháp Chàm, Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnels Tours, Mekong River Delta, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Krong Siem Reap
Tour operator:
Tour code:
TVCHS2
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
10 - 20
Physical rating:
Low
Age range:
18-39
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
(Previously called: Vietnam & Cambodia Explorer)TRIP VIBE = iconic sights and in-depth adventures with a local Trip Leader.17 days. Two of the most slap-you-in-the-face-unbelievable countries you'll ever experience. Who's ready to go exploring? You know it, we know it - even the carved faces at the Bayon temple know it. Vietnam and Cambodia are famous the world over for their mind-blowing natural beauty, ancient architecture and unique cultures. And this trip? It's here to help you see the very best that both have to offer. We're talking amazing cities. Fascinating history. Tropical scenery. Food that could actually change your life. Need we go on?
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Hanoi, Vietnam
Location: Hanoi
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner,
Blaring horns. French Colonial buildings. Picturesque lakes. And the smell of incense in the air. Welcome to historic Hanoi! Meet your fellow explorers and kick things off with a DE-licious street food tour through the Old Quarter. Our in-the-know Trip Leader will take us to all the local spots for goodies like bánh mì, pho, spring rolls and egg coffee - trust us, it's tasty. Then: head to Bai Hoi (aka Beer Corner). No guesses how this place got its name. Pull up a roadside stool with a cold Bia Hà Noi and get to know the gang - we might be a mixed bunch, but we're all in it together. Cheers to that!
Day 2 : Hanoi
Location: Hanoi
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch,
Ready to delve deeper into this incredible city? We thought so. Slip on the Birks and explore with your Trip Leader - ticking off the likes of One Pillar Pagoda, Lenin Park, Northern Gate, Cua Bac Church, B52 Lake and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (you can visit later, if you like). Then, we're heading to a local bún cha eatery for lunch. How many spring rolls is too many? Stupid question. What you do this afternoon is 100% up to you, but if you're chasing that off-the-beaten-path experience - jump aboard a locally guided Vespa tour. History buffs should check out Hoa Lo Prison. Catch a water puppet show at Thang Long theatre. Or stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake before hunting down a local hole-in-the-wall for a bowl of pho.
Day 3 : Hanoi To Halong Bay
Location: Hanoi, Hạ Long Bay
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
Halong Bay: World Heritage Site. The jewel in Vietnam’s crown. One of the ‘New 7 Wonders of Nature’. Whichever way you look at it, Halong Bay is pretty damn special. So, today we’re gonna do it properly with an overnight junk boat cruise. Spend the day swimming in glittering turquoise water, exploring limestone islands, digging into freshly made meals, and dancing into the sunset with your travel buds. This? This is what makes the memories. *Heads up! If you selected twin-share accommodation for this trip, you might be bunking with an extra trip mate for the duration of the cruise. All part of the experience, right?
Day 4 : Halong Bay To Hoi An, Via Hanoi
Location: Hạ Long Bay, Hanoi, Hội An
Accommodation Name: Overnight train
Meals Included: Breakfast,
Rise and shine, sailors! Kick off the day with a refreshing dip and hearty brunch. Then: we’re dropping anchor back in Hanoi, where there’s free time to get your explore on. Afterwards, we’re moving on to ancient Hoi An the traditional way – by overnight train! This is your chance to catch up on some zzzs, swap tales with your trip mates, and get chatting to the locals. It doesn’t get more authentic than this.
Day 5 : Hoi An
Location: Hội An
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: No Meals
Hop off the train and wave chà o to the locals – after a short drive from Da Nang prepare to be SERIOUSLY charmed by the ancient city of Hoi An. This stunner is a patchwork of all the civilisations to leave their imprint here. Expect: rustic Chinese shophouses, multicoloured French Colonial villas, and one helluva spectacular Japanese bridge. Want options to help discover this gem of a place? We got you. Soak up views of the forest and surrounding villages on a sunset paddleboarding adventure along the river. Or sip and slurp your way around town on an optional street food tour – we’re talking rose-shaped dumplings, bánh can pancakes and grilled pork satay. Yes. Please.
Day 6 : Hoi An
Location: Hội An
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast,
You wanted more free time to explore. So, here it is. Need some suggestions? Hop on a countryside cycling tour and get a taste of local life as you pass rows of rice fields, thatched cottages and villagers going about their day-to-day. Plus – master the art of lantern making while you’re at it. Or opt for a cooking class and local market visit – your mad new gastro skills are sure to impress the Tinder matches back home. Rather do your own thing? Explore the buzzing Central Market. Get a custom piece made by the city’s famous tailors. Or cycle to An Bang Beach for chilled boho vibes. Tonight, we’ll have free time to explore the lantern-filled magic of Hoi An Old Town and tuck into a bowl of cao lau (a local specialty) along the river. This is what you came for.
Day 7 : Hoi An To Phan Rang
Location: Hội An, Phan Rang–Tháp Chàm
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch,
*Last call for Topdeckers!* Today we're taking to the skies. Touch down in Nha Trang and prepare to get your Indiana Jones on as we make a beeline for Hang Rai cave. Setting foot in this spellbinding complex of rock formations and fossilised coral reef is like being dropped into a screensaver. Just: wow. Lunch is included today, so prepare for more lip-smacking Vietnamese goodness. Once we’ve rolled into Phan Rang, the evening is yours. Hunt down some banh canh noodle soup and show off those expert chopstick skills (or not). Or just head to the local beach, sink your toes in the powdery white sand and relax. It’s pretty dreamy.
Day 8 : Phan Rang
Location: Phan Rang–Tháp Chàm
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast,
Great news guys: today is 100% yours to delve deeper. AND we’ve got some epic optionals to help you do just that. Strap on those hiking boots and discover the wild beauty of Nui Chua National Park and underwater world of Vinh Hy Bay. Flex your best downward dog at a yoga class. Or simply turn off Google Maps and see where the day takes you. That’s what exploring’s all about. And this evening? Gather your trip mates and find a local haunt for some DElish banh xeo – pancakes filled with your fave veggies or meat. Plus dipping sauces of dreams. Mmm...
Day 9 : Phan Rang To Ho Chi Minh City
Location: Phan Rang–Tháp Chàm, Ho Chi Minh City
Accommodation Name: Overnight train
Meals Included: Breakfast,
You wanted more time to explore, and we LOVE making you happy. So here it is! What will it be today? Opt for kitesurfing, kayaking or SUP in the beaut emerald sea (spoiler: you will get wet). Channel your inner Lara Croft and discover the incred ruins of ancient Po Klong Garai Temple. Or just chill with the coconut trees along Phan Rang Beach – these guys are living their best lives. Later: we’ll choo-choose the overnight train once more as we make tracks for Ho Chi Minh City. Shotgun top bunk!
Day 10 : Ho Chi Minh City, Including Cu Chi Tunnels
Location: Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnels Tours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch,
Jump off the train like the local pro you now are. Welcome to Ho Chi Minh! A capital with nearly 9 million people, HCMC is a bubbling pot of energy, excitement and hidden gems. Aka your perfect match. Next: pull out your history hat – we’re off to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels. Surrounded by jungle that was once a stronghold of the Viet Cong, take a guided tour of the area and learn all about how this underground network was used by guerilla fighters during the Vietnam War. Then: we’ll drop into an organic farm for a lesson in local produce and a traditional homemade lunch. Tasty times. Back in the city, the evening is up to you. Need recommendations? Head to Relish & Sons and ask for the ‘Com Tam’ burger. So good, you’ll order two.
Day 11 : Ho Chi Minh City To Mekong Delta
Location: Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong River Delta
Accommodation: Homestay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
This is not over Ho Chi Minh – we’re coming back for you later. Today’s all about the wet stuff as we set our sights on the 'rice bowl’ of Vietnam: the Mekong Delta region. This tropical maze of rivers and swamps looks like it's dropped straight outta The Jungle Book. For real. Wanna know how to make markets more fun? Put them on boats, obvs. We’ll check out the world-class pineapple tossing skills of the traders at the traditional floating market in Cai Be. Then: time to take to the waterways with a pit stop at a local bonsai gardener’s home for an included lunch. Hope you like leafy greens. And tonight? We’re hunkering down in a traditional homestay with a local family, where our host will give us a masterclass in Vietnamese cooking. Heads up: rooms are shared here, so settle in and swap notes on the adventure so far.
Day 12 : Mekong Delta To Ho Chi Minh City
Location: Mekong River Delta, Ho Chi Minh City
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch,
Wake to the sound of the village stirring to life, and catch sight of the locals preparing for a new day. After a group brekkie at our homestay, we’ll jump back on a boat towards the waterfront city of Vinh Long for an included lunch – stopping along the way to see how some of the locals make their living. Afterwards: it’s time to return to HCMC for shellfish, rice paper pizza, and the city’s specialty – com tam *wipes drool from chin*.
Day 13 : Ho Chi Minh City To Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Location: Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast,
No lies, it’s an early wake-up call this morning. But you’ll have plenty of time to catch up on some zzzs as we roll into Cambodia! Ancient wonders. Serene landscapes. And a fascinatingly diverse history – Cambodia delivers on all fronts. We’ll kick off in Phnom Penh, where the evening’s yours to sample some sizzling street food along Sihanouk Boulevard, or head to Le Moon rooftop bar for views over the river and delish cocktails. Bliss.
Day 14 : Phnom Penh
Location: Phnom Penh
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast,
We’ll begin the day with a sobering visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum – documenting the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge during their ‘revolution’. There’s a lot to take in, but learning about this devastating period of the country’s history is important to fully understand modern Cambodia. Later on, quiz your expert Trip Leader on the best bargains to sniff out at the iconic art deco Central Market. And this evening? We’ll take to the water for a sunset cruise on the mighty Mekong. This is what you came for.
Day 15 : Phnom Penh To Siem Reap
Location: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast,
We’ll swap Phnom Penh for Siem Reap this afternoon, with plenty of time to spare for some pretty immense optional activities. Get a taste of local life on a sunset quad biking tour through the countryside. Or discover the treats on the streets with a finger-lickingly good food tour. There’s even an evening under the big top with the Cambodian Circus on offer. Can’t say we don’t spoil you! Tonight, immerse yourself in the neon-jungle of Angkor Night Market or experience the crazy that is Pub Street. Go steady – tomorrow is packed with memory-makers that you’re not gonna want to miss.
Day 16 : Siem Reap
Location: Krong Siem Reap
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner,
Ready for a real-life temple run? This is it. First up: we’ll explore the Angkor Thom complex with our local guide. Venture through statue-lined South Gate, the intricately decorated Bayon Temple and check out the Elephant Terrace. Then it’s onto Ta Prohm – a ruin filled with crumbling towers and overgrown tree roots. Think: Tomb Raider. Refuel and rehydrate – next we’re headed for Angkor Wat temple. The biggest temple complex in the world, ‘otherworldly’ doesn’t even come close to describing this place. Once you’re all temple-d out, we’ll settle in for our final group dinner at a local eatery. WHAT an adventure it’s been.
Day 17 : Siem Reap
Location: Krong Siem Reap
Meals Included: Breakfast, No Meals,
And just like that, it's over. 17 days of incredible adventures with a pack of strangers who are now like family. Get down to breakfast and swap those socials - you'll need them for next year's reunion trip. Where to next? Thailand? Bali? Japan?
What's Included
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Guide
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Transport
Private vehicle, domestic flight, overnight boat cruise and overnight train
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Tipping and Gratuities
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Accommodation
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Fully Guided
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Meals
As detailed in the itinerary
What's Not Included
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Country Entry Visas
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International Travel
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Airport Transfers at Destination
Check out our Q&As
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Is the tour coach air conditioned?
Yes it is
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Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?
We will have our Tour Leader with you every day
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
No they aren't
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
No they aren't
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What is the tipping policy?
Tipping is not required
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Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
Single pricing is available on all tours
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
No they aren't
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Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?
Yes we can
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Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?
Yes from all over the world
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
All guides are English Speaking
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Do you require a visa for this holiday?
This will vary from your country of origin. Please seek advice locally
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What is the maximum group size?
20
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Are flights included in this tour?
No they aren't
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
This will be provided on all documentation
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Curious? Open-minded? Same. Topdeckers are a mixed bunch, but that’s what makes us special. They come from all over the globe and are aged between 18 and 39. Like you, they’re looking to feel real. To experience more. To embrace the unknown. To grow and connect – without judgement.
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Is there an age limit on Topdeck trips?
Yes. Our trips are specifically designed for those aged 18-39 years of age.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
40 years
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.topdeck.travel/resources/booking-flexibility
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
We operate Single Share across across all touring styles and will match you with someone of the same gender
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
E-Documentation will be sent
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes, we work dilligenltly with our partners to acheive this
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes you can on European Tours
Reviews of this Operator
Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Topdeck allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform topdeck, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Topdeck requires a minimum deposit of 60 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of topdeck charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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