| | | | | Arrive | Depart |
| 4th04 | SepSep | 202828 | Cruising | | |
| 5th05 | SepSep | 202828 | Hanoi, Vietnam | | |
On arrival in Vietnam's capital, Hanoi, be met at the airport and transferred to the Grand Mercure Hanoi, only a short walk from the Old Quarter. Tonight, relish a multi-course Welcome Dinner. Insider Experience – Grand Mercure Hanoi Nestled in the lively heart of Vietnam’s bustling capital, Grand Mercure Hanoi is conveniently close to the Old Quarter. This hotel provides a genuine and immersive experience, blending modern elegance with traditional Vietnamese charm. Its design is a tribute to local heritage, incorporating elements such as rice-themed patterns, vibrant pottery, handcrafted lacquerware, and impressive architecture, resulting in a truly soulful ambience. Enhance Your Journey - Fast Track on Arrival Add this option prior to departure. With this, you will be whisked through immigration and customs before meeting your transfer (conditions apply) |
| 5th05 | SepSep | 202828 | Hanoi, Vietnam | | |
On arrival in Vietnam's capital, Hanoi, be met at the airport and transferred to the Grand Mercure Hanoi, only a short walk from the Old Quarter. Tonight, relish a multi-course Welcome Dinner. Insider Experience – Grand Mercure Hanoi Nestled in the lively heart of Vietnam’s bustling capital, Grand Mercure Hanoi is conveniently close to the Old Quarter. This hotel provides a genuine and immersive experience, blending modern elegance with traditional Vietnamese charm. Its design is a tribute to local heritage, incorporating elements such as rice-themed patterns, vibrant pottery, handcrafted lacquerware, and impressive architecture, resulting in a truly soulful ambience. Enhance Your Journey - Fast Track on Arrival Add this option prior to departure. With this, you will be whisked through immigration and customs before meeting your transfer (conditions apply) |
| 6th06 | SepSep | 202828 | Hanoi, Vietnam | | |
Today, two Insider Experiences await. This morning, soak in the city's most iconic historical and cultural landmarks. Explore a bustling local market and the charming Mural Street, alive with colour and creativity. Later, visit The Temple of Literature, Ba Dinh Square, one of the largest squares in Vietnam and drive by the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex. Afterwards, feast on lunch. With the rest of the day at leisure, perhaps enjoy one of our select experiences. Insider Experience – Hanoi's Old Quarter by Cyclo Weave through Hanoi’s bustling city streets like a local on a tour of the city’s Old Quarter aboard a cyclo. Insider Experience – Lunch at KOTO Savour authentic flavours and feast on a soulful Vietnamese lunch at KOTO (Know One, Teach One). This restaurant was established as Vietnam's first social enterprise, dedicated to empowering at-risk and disadvantaged local youth through hospitality training. Enhance Your Journey – History Tour by Motorbike Discover Hanoi by motorbike on a guided ride through the city’s narrow streets to B52 Lake and the historic Hàng Đau Water Tower. Continue to Long Biên Bridge for riverside views and a glimpse of local life, before driving by Hoa Lo Prison. End with local culinary favourites, West Lake shrimp cake and beer. Enhance Your Journey – Street Food Tour Discover Hanoi’s street food scene and uncover the quintessential culinary flavours of Vietnam’s capital city. Wander the labyrinthine streets of the Old Quarter, sampling local specialties such as savoury pork buns and fragrant phở, before concluding with a visit to one of Hanoi’s best-kept secrets – a cafe overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake. Enhance Your Journey – Water Puppets and Street Food Style Dinner Take your seat at one of the city’s traditional water puppet theatres and immerse yourself in this ancient art form – unique to northern Vietnam and once performed in villages and rice paddies. Accompanied by a traditional Vietnamese orchestra of drums, cymbals, horns, and bamboo flutes, the enchanting performance unfolds against a mesmerising soundtrack. Afterwards, savour a mouth-watering selection of Vietnamese street food at a local restaurant set in a charming colonial villa. Enhance Your Journey – Cooking Workshop and Dinner Immerse yourself in a vibrant local market with a seasoned chef, hand-picking fresh ingredients for a hands-on cooking workshop. Discover the diverse techniques and ingredients that have made Vietnamese cuisine famous for its fresh, fragrant and aromatic flavours, then savour your culinary creation for dinner. |
| 6th06 | SepSep | 202828 | Hanoi, Vietnam | | |
Today, two Insider Experiences await. This morning, soak in the city's most iconic historical and cultural landmarks. Explore a bustling local market and the charming Mural Street, alive with colour and creativity. Later, visit The Temple of Literature, Ba Dinh Square, one of the largest squares in Vietnam and drive by the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex. Afterwards, feast on lunch. With the rest of the day at leisure, perhaps enjoy one of our select experiences. Insider Experience – Hanoi's Old Quarter by Cyclo Weave through Hanoi’s bustling city streets like a local on a tour of the city’s Old Quarter aboard a cyclo. Insider Experience – Lunch at KOTO Savour authentic flavours and feast on a soulful Vietnamese lunch at KOTO (Know One, Teach One). This restaurant was established as Vietnam's first social enterprise, dedicated to empowering at-risk and disadvantaged local youth through hospitality training. Enhance Your Journey – History Tour by Motorbike Discover Hanoi by motorbike on a guided ride through the city’s narrow streets to B52 Lake and the historic Hàng Đau Water Tower. Continue to Long Biên Bridge for riverside views and a glimpse of local life, before driving by Hoa Lo Prison. End with local culinary favourites, West Lake shrimp cake and beer. Enhance Your Journey – Street Food Tour Discover Hanoi’s street food scene and uncover the quintessential culinary flavours of Vietnam’s capital city. Wander the labyrinthine streets of the Old Quarter, sampling local specialties such as savoury pork buns and fragrant phở, before concluding with a visit to one of Hanoi’s best-kept secrets – a cafe overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake. Enhance Your Journey – Water Puppets and Street Food Style Dinner Take your seat at one of the city’s traditional water puppet theatres and immerse yourself in this ancient art form – unique to northern Vietnam and once performed in villages and rice paddies. Accompanied by a traditional Vietnamese orchestra of drums, cymbals, horns, and bamboo flutes, the enchanting performance unfolds against a mesmerising soundtrack. Afterwards, savour a mouth-watering selection of Vietnamese street food at a local restaurant set in a charming colonial villa. Enhance Your Journey – Cooking Workshop and Dinner Immerse yourself in a vibrant local market with a seasoned chef, hand-picking fresh ingredients for a hands-on cooking workshop. Discover the diverse techniques and ingredients that have made Vietnamese cuisine famous for its fresh, fragrant and aromatic flavours, then savour your culinary creation for dinner. |
| 7th07 | SepSep | 202828 | Hanoi, Vietnam | | |
This morning, travel to Tuan Chau to board your Ha Long Bay cruise onboard the “Au Co.” Set sail among thousands of limestone islets while enjoying an assortment of Vietnamese dishes during lunch as your boutique ship slowly glides towards the southeast of Ha Long Bay, passing iconic landmarks including Trong Mai Islet, Ngon Tay Islet and Con Coc Islet. Continue your journey with a kayaking excursion around the tranquil Ho Ba Ham area, where you can paddle through serene waters surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and discover the peaceful beauty of this secluded corner of Ha Long Bay. After your exploration, return to the ship and enjoy the lush scenery while taking part in a hands-on culinary class to master bánh cuon – delicate steamed rice rolls. Later, savour a delicious dinner on board. Afterwards, perhaps join a Vietnamese rice wine tasting session in the restaurant. Insider Experience – Ha Long Bay Cruise Discover Ha Long Bay on a two-night cruise aboard the traditionally styled Au Co. World Heritage-listed Ha Long Bay is one of nature's most inspiring displays, where over 1,600 lush limestone pillars rise from the emerald waters – making it an ideal playground for exciting activities and relaxation. |
| 7th07 | SepSep | 202828 | Hanoi, Vietnam | | |
This morning, travel to Tuan Chau to board your Ha Long Bay cruise onboard the “Au Co.” Set sail among thousands of limestone islets while enjoying an assortment of Vietnamese dishes during lunch as your boutique ship slowly glides towards the southeast of Ha Long Bay, passing iconic landmarks including Trong Mai Islet, Ngon Tay Islet and Con Coc Islet. Continue your journey with a kayaking excursion around the tranquil Ho Ba Ham area, where you can paddle through serene waters surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and discover the peaceful beauty of this secluded corner of Ha Long Bay. After your exploration, return to the ship and enjoy the lush scenery while taking part in a hands-on culinary class to master bánh cuon – delicate steamed rice rolls. Later, savour a delicious dinner on board. Afterwards, perhaps join a Vietnamese rice wine tasting session in the restaurant. Insider Experience – Ha Long Bay Cruise Discover Ha Long Bay on a two-night cruise aboard the traditionally styled Au Co. World Heritage-listed Ha Long Bay is one of nature's most inspiring displays, where over 1,600 lush limestone pillars rise from the emerald waters – making it an ideal playground for exciting activities and relaxation. |
| 8th08 | SepSep | 202828 | Ha Long Bay, Vietnam | | |
A visit to the north is not complete without a trip to Halong Bay, where placid waters give way to more than 3,000 limestone karsts and wind-sculpted limestone formations that jut from foggy lagoons. Dotting the bay are tiny islands bordered by white sandy coves and hidden caves, adding to the majestic landscape of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Adding to this naturalist’s dream is the biodiversity of islets, grottos, and Cat Ba Island National Park. The bay, however, shows tourism’s impact: the clearing of mangrove forests to make way for jetties and piers, marine life threatened by game fishing, and garbage from passenger boats and fishing villages washed up on the shores.Beyond its geological uniqueness are activities like hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, or exploring one of the many floating villages where fishermen bring in their daily catch. The downside to all this allure is the large number of unlicensed boats it draws to the bay each day.Boat trips out onto the bay are the main tourism stock in trade farther north, but a more multifaceted side of the area can be experienced at Cat Ba Island. The largest island in Halong Bay, Cat Ba is very much its own entity. Its national park offers incredible biodiversity, with more than a thousand species of plants having been recorded here. Animal life is slightly thinner on the ground, but alert visitors may spy inhabitants such as the endangered golden-headed langur, wild boar, deer, civets, and several species of squirrel. Trekking through the wilderness is a highlight with a number of fascinating trails to follow.Cat Ba Island has also become a firm favorite with the adventure sports set. Indeed, along with Railay Beach in Thailand, it is recognized as one of the top spots in the region for rock climbing. Other outdoor pursuits include sailing and kayaking around the karsts. Although Halong Bay has arguably been tainted by over-exposure, Bai Tu Long Bay farther east toward China, retains all the majesty of Vietnam’s premier bucket-list natural attraction but sees a fraction of the traffic of its immediate neighbor to the west. Here, visitors will find islands of substantial size with deserted beaches and untamed jungle. Halong Bay's 3,000 islands of dolomite and limestone cover a 1,500-square-km (580-square-mile) area, extending across the Gulf of Tonkin nearly to the Chinese border. According to legend, this breathtaking land- and seascape was formed by a giant dragon that came barreling out of the mountains toward the ocean—hence the name (Halong translates into "descent of the dragon"). Geologists are more likely to attribute the formations to sedimentary limestone that formed here between 300 and 500 million years ago, in the Paleozoic Era. Over millions of years water receded and exposed the limestone to wind, rain, and tidal erosion.Today the limestone formations are exposed to hordes of tourists—but don't let that discourage you. Hundreds of fishing trawlers and tour boats share space on these crystal waters, yet there seems to be room for everyone. Most people use the main population center, Halong City, as a base from which to venture into the bay. Although it's now officially one municipality, Halong City was, until 1996, two separate towns: Bai Chay is now Halong City West, where Halong Road winds its way around the coast and past the lifeless central beach; Hon Gai is the grimier Halong City East, where a coal transportation depot dominates the center of town and covers nearby roads and buildings with a sooty film. Locals still refer to the towns by their old names, but they are now inexorably lassoed together by a bridge. Boat trips through Halong Bay are the main attraction. Little of the majesty of this region can be found in the city, so head out onto the water and start exploring. Countless 10- and 30-foot fishing boats have been converted into Halong Bay's formidable tourist-boat fleet. Hotels or travel agencies in Halong City or Hanoi can arrange boat trips for you (often they are part of organized tours from Hanoi). It is still possible to go down to the wharf and bargain yourself onto a boat for the day, but you are likely to be charged (sometimes significantly) more than you would pay for a prebooked tour, so this is not advised. Self-sufficient travelers have fallen victim to the old bait-and-switch: they've arranged a next-day boat tour with local fishermen, only to be told in no uncertain terms the following morning that they could not board their chosen boat, but they could take a different one for quite a bit more money. You may have no choice in the end. Usually travel agencies, however, have their tried-and-true favorites. As the sun rises over the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay, begin the day with a rejuvenating Tai Chi lesson on deck, surrounded by the bay’s tranquil scenery. Enjoy a hearty breakfast before boarding a sightseeing excursion boat to explore the hidden beauty of the bay. Embark on a kayaking adventure around the peaceful Tung Sau area, where you can paddle through emerald waters and admire the dramatic limestone formations rising from the sea. Continue your exploration with a visit to the stunning Trinh Nu Area, where you will discover a fascinating cave and enjoy time swimming or kayaking in the clear waters. Then, hop back on board and cruise to the anchor point, soaking up spectacular sunset views from the deck with a drink in hand. Wrap up the day with a delicious dinner onboard, followed by evening entertainment and the chance to try your hand at squid fishing on the main deck. |
| 8th08 | SepSep | 202828 | Ha Long Bay, Vietnam | | |
A visit to the north is not complete without a trip to Halong Bay, where placid waters give way to more than 3,000 limestone karsts and wind-sculpted limestone formations that jut from foggy lagoons. Dotting the bay are tiny islands bordered by white sandy coves and hidden caves, adding to the majestic landscape of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Adding to this naturalist’s dream is the biodiversity of islets, grottos, and Cat Ba Island National Park. The bay, however, shows tourism’s impact: the clearing of mangrove forests to make way for jetties and piers, marine life threatened by game fishing, and garbage from passenger boats and fishing villages washed up on the shores.Beyond its geological uniqueness are activities like hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, or exploring one of the many floating villages where fishermen bring in their daily catch. The downside to all this allure is the large number of unlicensed boats it draws to the bay each day.Boat trips out onto the bay are the main tourism stock in trade farther north, but a more multifaceted side of the area can be experienced at Cat Ba Island. The largest island in Halong Bay, Cat Ba is very much its own entity. Its national park offers incredible biodiversity, with more than a thousand species of plants having been recorded here. Animal life is slightly thinner on the ground, but alert visitors may spy inhabitants such as the endangered golden-headed langur, wild boar, deer, civets, and several species of squirrel. Trekking through the wilderness is a highlight with a number of fascinating trails to follow.Cat Ba Island has also become a firm favorite with the adventure sports set. Indeed, along with Railay Beach in Thailand, it is recognized as one of the top spots in the region for rock climbing. Other outdoor pursuits include sailing and kayaking around the karsts. Although Halong Bay has arguably been tainted by over-exposure, Bai Tu Long Bay farther east toward China, retains all the majesty of Vietnam’s premier bucket-list natural attraction but sees a fraction of the traffic of its immediate neighbor to the west. Here, visitors will find islands of substantial size with deserted beaches and untamed jungle. Halong Bay's 3,000 islands of dolomite and limestone cover a 1,500-square-km (580-square-mile) area, extending across the Gulf of Tonkin nearly to the Chinese border. According to legend, this breathtaking land- and seascape was formed by a giant dragon that came barreling out of the mountains toward the ocean—hence the name (Halong translates into "descent of the dragon"). Geologists are more likely to attribute the formations to sedimentary limestone that formed here between 300 and 500 million years ago, in the Paleozoic Era. Over millions of years water receded and exposed the limestone to wind, rain, and tidal erosion.Today the limestone formations are exposed to hordes of tourists—but don't let that discourage you. Hundreds of fishing trawlers and tour boats share space on these crystal waters, yet there seems to be room for everyone. Most people use the main population center, Halong City, as a base from which to venture into the bay. Although it's now officially one municipality, Halong City was, until 1996, two separate towns: Bai Chay is now Halong City West, where Halong Road winds its way around the coast and past the lifeless central beach; Hon Gai is the grimier Halong City East, where a coal transportation depot dominates the center of town and covers nearby roads and buildings with a sooty film. Locals still refer to the towns by their old names, but they are now inexorably lassoed together by a bridge. Boat trips through Halong Bay are the main attraction. Little of the majesty of this region can be found in the city, so head out onto the water and start exploring. Countless 10- and 30-foot fishing boats have been converted into Halong Bay's formidable tourist-boat fleet. Hotels or travel agencies in Halong City or Hanoi can arrange boat trips for you (often they are part of organized tours from Hanoi). It is still possible to go down to the wharf and bargain yourself onto a boat for the day, but you are likely to be charged (sometimes significantly) more than you would pay for a prebooked tour, so this is not advised. Self-sufficient travelers have fallen victim to the old bait-and-switch: they've arranged a next-day boat tour with local fishermen, only to be told in no uncertain terms the following morning that they could not board their chosen boat, but they could take a different one for quite a bit more money. You may have no choice in the end. Usually travel agencies, however, have their tried-and-true favorites. As the sun rises over the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay, begin the day with a rejuvenating Tai Chi lesson on deck, surrounded by the bay’s tranquil scenery. Enjoy a hearty breakfast before boarding a sightseeing excursion boat to explore the hidden beauty of the bay. Embark on a kayaking adventure around the peaceful Tung Sau area, where you can paddle through emerald waters and admire the dramatic limestone formations rising from the sea. Continue your exploration with a visit to the stunning Trinh Nu Area, where you will discover a fascinating cave and enjoy time swimming or kayaking in the clear waters. Then, hop back on board and cruise to the anchor point, soaking up spectacular sunset views from the deck with a drink in hand. Wrap up the day with a delicious dinner onboard, followed by evening entertainment and the chance to try your hand at squid fishing on the main deck. |
| 9th09 | SepSep | 202828 | Hanoi, Vietnam | | |
Begin the day with a final exploration of Ha Long Bay, choose between visiting the tranquil Cua Van Floating Village by kayak or traditional rowing boat, where you can discover the unique lifestyle of local fishing communities surrounded by towering limestone karsts and calm waters. Alternatively, explore the fascinating Tien Ong Cave, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites and rich archaeological significance. Before cruising to Tuan Chau, where you will disembark. Travel to Hanoi airport for your included flight to Siem Reap. Unwind at the Shinta Mani Angkor, an oasis of tranquillity, to relax amid the lush gardens and large swimming pool. The rest of the day is yours to relax and spend at your leisure. For dinner, perhaps choose from one of the Enhance your Journey dining options on offer. Insider Experience – Three Nights at Shinta Mani Angkor Unwind in an idyllic setting during an indulgent stay at this upscale retreat, designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley. Combining elegance and sustainability, your accommodation is situated in Siem Reap's leafy French Quarter, close to the famous Angkor Wat temple. Enhance Your Journey – Cafe Indochine Dine in a traditional wooden Khmer house located in the centre of Siem Reap. Enhance Your Journey – Mahob Enjoy authentic Khmer cuisine in a carefully restored property, once owned by a governor from the Peak Sneng district of Angkor Thom. Enhance Your Journey – The Street 27 Restaurant Indulge in Khmer fare in a beautiful garden setting with a relaxed ambience. |
| 9th09 | SepSep | 202828 | Hanoi, Vietnam | | |
Begin the day with a final exploration of Ha Long Bay, choose between visiting the tranquil Cua Van Floating Village by kayak or traditional rowing boat, where you can discover the unique lifestyle of local fishing communities surrounded by towering limestone karsts and calm waters. Alternatively, explore the fascinating Tien Ong Cave, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites and rich archaeological significance. Before cruising to Tuan Chau, where you will disembark. Travel to Hanoi airport for your included flight to Siem Reap. Unwind at the Shinta Mani Angkor, an oasis of tranquillity, to relax amid the lush gardens and large swimming pool. The rest of the day is yours to relax and spend at your leisure. For dinner, perhaps choose from one of the Enhance your Journey dining options on offer. Insider Experience – Three Nights at Shinta Mani Angkor Unwind in an idyllic setting during an indulgent stay at this upscale retreat, designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley. Combining elegance and sustainability, your accommodation is situated in Siem Reap's leafy French Quarter, close to the famous Angkor Wat temple. Enhance Your Journey – Cafe Indochine Dine in a traditional wooden Khmer house located in the centre of Siem Reap. Enhance Your Journey – Mahob Enjoy authentic Khmer cuisine in a carefully restored property, once owned by a governor from the Peak Sneng district of Angkor Thom. Enhance Your Journey – The Street 27 Restaurant Indulge in Khmer fare in a beautiful garden setting with a relaxed ambience. |
| 10th10 | SepSep | 202828 | Siem Reap, Cambodia | | |
Explore Siem Reap this morning at your own pace. Later, discover Ta Prohm, often referred to as the ‘Tomb Raider Temple’ due to its depiction in the Angelina Jolie film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. The temple and its beautiful surroundings have been left to gradually succumb to nature, where the encroaching jungle and sprawling root systems weave a striking tapestry through the ruins. Later, two Insider Experiences await. Insider Experience – Local Charity Visit Visit Opportunities of Development thru Art (ODA), a OneTomorrow partner that provides education to local disadvantaged children living in Siem Reap's remote villages. Insider Experience – Khmer Dinner and Apsara Performance Dine on tantalising Khmer cuisine and peer into the heart of Cambodia as you watch an apsara dance performance, a delicate, beautiful tradition dating back to the seventh century. |
| 10th10 | SepSep | 202828 | Siem Reap, Cambodia | | |
Explore Siem Reap this morning at your own pace. Later, discover Ta Prohm, often referred to as the ‘Tomb Raider Temple’ due to its depiction in the Angelina Jolie film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. The temple and its beautiful surroundings have been left to gradually succumb to nature, where the encroaching jungle and sprawling root systems weave a striking tapestry through the ruins. Later, two Insider Experiences await. Insider Experience – Local Charity Visit Visit Opportunities of Development thru Art (ODA), a OneTomorrow partner that provides education to local disadvantaged children living in Siem Reap's remote villages. Insider Experience – Khmer Dinner and Apsara Performance Dine on tantalising Khmer cuisine and peer into the heart of Cambodia as you watch an apsara dance performance, a delicate, beautiful tradition dating back to the seventh century. |
| 11th11 | SepSep | 202828 | Siem Reap, Cambodia | | |
Rise early for a special Insider Experience at Angkor Archaeological Park. After a guided tour of the well-preserved Angkor Wat temple, return to your hotel for breakfast. In the early afternoon, explore Siem Reap on your own or choose from our select experience options. Later this afternoon, return to Angkor Archaeological Park to visit Angkor Thom and the Bayon. This evening, enjoy free time to further explore or take part in an optional select experience. Insider Experience – Sunrise at Angkor Wat Wake up early and witness the sun rising over Angkor Wat. This also includes a seat during the experience as well as refreshments (coffee, tea or juice). Afternoon Enhance Your Journey – Local Boutiques and Markets Explore Siem Reap’s vibrant arts and crafts scene, starting at the Angkor Handicraft Association. This Fair Trade Village is home to a wide variety of artisans who produce handmade goods using traditional techniques. Peruse Angkor Artwork to see traditional lacquerware crafted using ancestral techniques. Stop at Phsar Chas, the oldest market in Siem Reap, where you’ll find stalls selling everything from fresh vegetables, seafood and meat to souvenirs. Enhance Your Journey – APOPO HeroRATs Tour and Landmine Museum Take a tour of APOPO, a non-profit organisation that trains African giant pouched rats to save lives by detecting landmines. Close by, the Landmine Museum shows the devastating impact of landmines, sharing personal stories of hope and resilience while highlighting ongoing de-mining efforts. Enhance Your Journey – Horse-Drawn Cart Ride Relax and watch the scenery go by as you travel through the Cambodian countryside on a traditional horse-drawn cart. Enhance Your Journey – Quad Bike Adventure Explore authentic Cambodia away from the tourist crowds on a quad bike. Journey through rice fields, forests and villages. Enhance Your Journey – Jeep Tour through Cambodian Village Travel by Vintage Jeep to Chreav Village, a peaceful rural community offering an authentic glimpse into traditional Cambodian life. This immersive experience invites you to discover the daily rhythms of village living. Visit a lively local market, learn about traditional Cambodian rice wine making, and enjoy scenic drives through lush rice fields. Along the way, stop at a local home for refreshing coconut water and visit a mushroom house. Evening Enhance Your Journey – Circus Performance Take your seat at Phare Circus and be amazed by the skills of the performers. This acclaimed show blends modern Khmer tales with music, dance, acrobatics, juggling, aerial acts and contortion. |
| 11th11 | SepSep | 202828 | Siem Reap, Cambodia | | |
Rise early for a special Insider Experience at Angkor Archaeological Park. After a guided tour of the well-preserved Angkor Wat temple, return to your hotel for breakfast. In the early afternoon, explore Siem Reap on your own or choose from our select experience options. Later this afternoon, return to Angkor Archaeological Park to visit Angkor Thom and the Bayon. This evening, enjoy free time to further explore or take part in an optional select experience. Insider Experience – Sunrise at Angkor Wat Wake up early and witness the sun rising over Angkor Wat. This also includes a seat during the experience as well as refreshments (coffee, tea or juice). Afternoon Enhance Your Journey – Local Boutiques and Markets Explore Siem Reap’s vibrant arts and crafts scene, starting at the Angkor Handicraft Association. This Fair Trade Village is home to a wide variety of artisans who produce handmade goods using traditional techniques. Peruse Angkor Artwork to see traditional lacquerware crafted using ancestral techniques. Stop at Phsar Chas, the oldest market in Siem Reap, where you’ll find stalls selling everything from fresh vegetables, seafood and meat to souvenirs. Enhance Your Journey – APOPO HeroRATs Tour and Landmine Museum Take a tour of APOPO, a non-profit organisation that trains African giant pouched rats to save lives by detecting landmines. Close by, the Landmine Museum shows the devastating impact of landmines, sharing personal stories of hope and resilience while highlighting ongoing de-mining efforts. Enhance Your Journey – Horse-Drawn Cart Ride Relax and watch the scenery go by as you travel through the Cambodian countryside on a traditional horse-drawn cart. Enhance Your Journey – Quad Bike Adventure Explore authentic Cambodia away from the tourist crowds on a quad bike. Journey through rice fields, forests and villages. Enhance Your Journey – Jeep Tour through Cambodian Village Travel by Vintage Jeep to Chreav Village, a peaceful rural community offering an authentic glimpse into traditional Cambodian life. This immersive experience invites you to discover the daily rhythms of village living. Visit a lively local market, learn about traditional Cambodian rice wine making, and enjoy scenic drives through lush rice fields. Along the way, stop at a local home for refreshing coconut water and visit a mushroom house. Evening Enhance Your Journey – Circus Performance Take your seat at Phare Circus and be amazed by the skills of the performers. This acclaimed show blends modern Khmer tales with music, dance, acrobatics, juggling, aerial acts and contortion. |
| 12th12 | SepSep | 202828 | Siem Reap, Cambodia | | |
Journey through picturesque countryside and charming remote villages, arriving in Kampong Cham to embark on your Mekong River cruise. Here, you'll board the RV Lotus, your boutique river ship and home for the next seven nights. Spend the afternoon enjoying your Insider Experience. This evening, savour a Welcome Dinner on board with your fellow travellers. Insider Experience – Tuk Tuk Tour of Koh Pen Hop on a tuk tuk and explore the agricultural island of Koh Pen. Travel along the shaded lanes and past wooden stilted houses, tucked among palm and sandalwood trees. |
| 12th12 | SepSep | 202828 | Siem Reap, Cambodia | | |
Journey through picturesque countryside and charming remote villages, arriving in Kampong Cham to embark on your Mekong River cruise. Here, you'll board the RV Lotus, your boutique river ship and home for the next seven nights. Spend the afternoon enjoying your Insider Experience. This evening, savour a Welcome Dinner on board with your fellow travellers. Insider Experience – Tuk Tuk Tour of Koh Pen Hop on a tuk tuk and explore the agricultural island of Koh Pen. Travel along the shaded lanes and past wooden stilted houses, tucked among palm and sandalwood trees. |
| 13th13 | SepSep | 202828 | Angkor Ban, Cambodia | | |
Start your day with a tour of Angkor Ban by foot. Nicknamed the 'Lucky Village', Angkor Ban is one of the few rural villages in Cambodia that escaped destruction from the Khmer Rouge regime. Stroll through town and see wooden houses, some over a century old. Return to your ship and continue cruising along the lush banks of the Mekong River to Oknha Tey (Oknha Tei), or Silk Island. Disembark and discover the village, renowned for its silk weaving traditions. |
| 13th13 | SepSep | 202828 | Angkor Ban, Cambodia | | |
Start your day with a tour of Angkor Ban by foot. Nicknamed the 'Lucky Village', Angkor Ban is one of the few rural villages in Cambodia that escaped destruction from the Khmer Rouge regime. Stroll through town and see wooden houses, some over a century old. Return to your ship and continue cruising along the lush banks of the Mekong River to Oknha Tey (Oknha Tei), or Silk Island. Disembark and discover the village, renowned for its silk weaving traditions. |
| 14th14 | SepSep | 202828 | Koh Chen, Cambodia | | |
Begin your morning with an excursion by road to Oudong, Cambodia’s former royal capital, where a memorable Insider Experience awaits. En route back to Phnom Penh, take a leisurely walk through the village of Koh Chen. Stop to visit the open-air copperware workshops and witness the skills of the artisans. Return to the ship and enjoy a free afternoon in Phnom Penh, or enhance your time by choosing one of our select experiences. Insider Experience – Buddhist Blessing Ceremony Take part in a traditional Buddhist blessing ceremony to wish you good luck, health and safe journey, led by resident monks at a monastery in Oudong. Enhance Your Journey – Hands-On Cooking Workshop Meet your chef and visit a local market to select fruits, spices and other local ingredients before learning how to prepare authentic Khmer dishes. Enhance Your Journey – Phnom Penh by Cyclo Explore Phnom Penh by cyclo, taking in sights such as Independence Square, the Royal Palace, trendy cafes, boutiques, local markets and pagodas. Enhance Your Journey – Phnom Penh by Tuk Tuk Discover Phnom Penh by tuk tuk, passing sights like Wat Phnom, the Phnom Penh Post Office, U.S. Embassy, Raffles Hotel, and Royal Railway Station. Ride along Pasteur Street, the Central Market, and Phsar Tapang. Stop to walk around the Independence Monument and statue of King Norodom Sihanouk, then continue past NagaWorld, the Royal Palace and Sisowath Quay. Enhance Your Journey – High Tea at Rosewood Experience a high tea at Rosewood, featuring sandwiches, freshly baked scones with jam and cream, an assortment of delicate sweet treats, and your choice of premium tea or coffee. Indulge in an afternoon filled with rich flavours and timeless hospitality. Alternatively upgrade to the Champagne High Tea and indulge in a glass of Champagne along with your high tea. |
| 14th14 | SepSep | 202828 | Koh Chen, Cambodia | | |
Begin your morning with an excursion by road to Oudong, Cambodia’s former royal capital, where a memorable Insider Experience awaits. En route back to Phnom Penh, take a leisurely walk through the village of Koh Chen. Stop to visit the open-air copperware workshops and witness the skills of the artisans. Return to the ship and enjoy a free afternoon in Phnom Penh, or enhance your time by choosing one of our select experiences. Insider Experience – Buddhist Blessing Ceremony Take part in a traditional Buddhist blessing ceremony to wish you good luck, health and safe journey, led by resident monks at a monastery in Oudong. Enhance Your Journey – Hands-On Cooking Workshop Meet your chef and visit a local market to select fruits, spices and other local ingredients before learning how to prepare authentic Khmer dishes. Enhance Your Journey – Phnom Penh by Cyclo Explore Phnom Penh by cyclo, taking in sights such as Independence Square, the Royal Palace, trendy cafes, boutiques, local markets and pagodas. Enhance Your Journey – Phnom Penh by Tuk Tuk Discover Phnom Penh by tuk tuk, passing sights like Wat Phnom, the Phnom Penh Post Office, U.S. Embassy, Raffles Hotel, and Royal Railway Station. Ride along Pasteur Street, the Central Market, and Phsar Tapang. Stop to walk around the Independence Monument and statue of King Norodom Sihanouk, then continue past NagaWorld, the Royal Palace and Sisowath Quay. Enhance Your Journey – High Tea at Rosewood Experience a high tea at Rosewood, featuring sandwiches, freshly baked scones with jam and cream, an assortment of delicate sweet treats, and your choice of premium tea or coffee. Indulge in an afternoon filled with rich flavours and timeless hospitality. Alternatively upgrade to the Champagne High Tea and indulge in a glass of Champagne along with your high tea. |
| 15th15 | SepSep | 202828 | Phnom Penh, Cambodia | | |
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s busy capital, sits at the junction of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. It was a hub for both the Khmer Empire and French colonialists. On its walkable riverfront, lined with parks, restaurants and bars, are the ornate Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, displaying artifacts from around the country. At the city’s heart is the massive, art deco Central Market. Start the day with a sobering excursion to the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, where you will learn about Cambodia's Khmer Rouge regime, as well as the resilience of the Cambodian people. Take a moment to pay your respects at the Memorial Stupa, a monument erected in memory of the thousands of people who lost their lives. After lunch, admire the striking white and gold Khmer architecture of the Royal Palace, which was built in 1866. Head inside the glorious Silver Pagoda – named after its floors, which are designed with 5,000 silver tiles. The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure. You may wish to head to the Russian Market for souvenirs, the Central Market where you can try the local delicacy of fried tarantula and crickets, or simply stay on board and enjoy the facilities and service. |
| 15th15 | SepSep | 202828 | Phnom Penh, Cambodia | | |
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s busy capital, sits at the junction of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. It was a hub for both the Khmer Empire and French colonialists. On its walkable riverfront, lined with parks, restaurants and bars, are the ornate Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, displaying artifacts from around the country. At the city’s heart is the massive, art deco Central Market. Start the day with a sobering excursion to the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, where you will learn about Cambodia's Khmer Rouge regime, as well as the resilience of the Cambodian people. Take a moment to pay your respects at the Memorial Stupa, a monument erected in memory of the thousands of people who lost their lives. After lunch, admire the striking white and gold Khmer architecture of the Royal Palace, which was built in 1866. Head inside the glorious Silver Pagoda – named after its floors, which are designed with 5,000 silver tiles. The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure. You may wish to head to the Russian Market for souvenirs, the Central Market where you can try the local delicacy of fried tarantula and crickets, or simply stay on board and enjoy the facilities and service. |
| 16th16 | SepSep | 202828 | Tân Châu, Vietnam | | |
Relax on board as your ship cruises to the Vietnamese border. While border formalities are carried out, enjoy the onboard presentations and demonstrations. Cross into Vietnam and cruise into the riverside town of Tan Chau. |
| 16th16 | SepSep | 202828 | Tân Châu, Vietnam | | |
Relax on board as your ship cruises to the Vietnamese border. While border formalities are carried out, enjoy the onboard presentations and demonstrations. Cross into Vietnam and cruise into the riverside town of Tan Chau. |
| 17th17 | SepSep | 202828 | Tân Châu, Vietnam | | |
Transfer to a small boat for a journey along the tiny tributaries that snake around Tan Chau. Disembark for a rickshaw tour and weave through the narrow laneways of this sleepy town, largely untouched by tourism. Stop at a Cao Dai Temple, a fascinating symbol of one of Vietnam’s most distinctive religions. Founded in the 1920s, Cao Dai is a unique fusion of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism and Christianity, reflected in the temple’s vibrant architecture, symbolic motifs and intricate decorations. Admire the striking colours, ornate carvings and the iconic “Divine Eye,” which represents spiritual insight and divine presence. Later, step back in time during a visit to Vinh Hoa, also known as Evergreen Island. Take the opportunity to witness traditional Vietnamese farming practices, then head back to the ship and continue cruising towards the quaint town of Sa Dec. |
| 17th17 | SepSep | 202828 | Tân Châu, Vietnam | | |
Transfer to a small boat for a journey along the tiny tributaries that snake around Tan Chau. Disembark for a rickshaw tour and weave through the narrow laneways of this sleepy town, largely untouched by tourism. Stop at a Cao Dai Temple, a fascinating symbol of one of Vietnam’s most distinctive religions. Founded in the 1920s, Cao Dai is a unique fusion of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism and Christianity, reflected in the temple’s vibrant architecture, symbolic motifs and intricate decorations. Admire the striking colours, ornate carvings and the iconic “Divine Eye,” which represents spiritual insight and divine presence. Later, step back in time during a visit to Vinh Hoa, also known as Evergreen Island. Take the opportunity to witness traditional Vietnamese farming practices, then head back to the ship and continue cruising towards the quaint town of Sa Dec. |
| 18th18 | SepSep | 202828 | Sa Déc, Vietnam | | |
Pass floating fish farms as you take a boat ride to Sa Dec, then explore the colourful market on foot. Continue past crumbling waterside mansions to the home of Mr Huynh Thuy Le, who inspired the French writer Marguerite Duras' novel, L'Amant. Return to the ship for a delicious lunch while you cruise towards Cai Be, where a local boat will take you into the riverside town. Step ashore to visit the French gothic Cai Be Church, as well as a rice paper and coconut candy manufacturer. Tonight, enjoy a special Farewell Dinner on board as you cruise towards your final stop, My Tho. |
| 18th18 | SepSep | 202828 | Sa Déc, Vietnam | | |
Pass floating fish farms as you take a boat ride to Sa Dec, then explore the colourful market on foot. Continue past crumbling waterside mansions to the home of Mr Huynh Thuy Le, who inspired the French writer Marguerite Duras' novel, L'Amant. Return to the ship for a delicious lunch while you cruise towards Cai Be, where a local boat will take you into the riverside town. Step ashore to visit the French gothic Cai Be Church, as well as a rice paper and coconut candy manufacturer. Tonight, enjoy a special Farewell Dinner on board as you cruise towards your final stop, My Tho. |
| 19th19 | SepSep | 202828 | My Tho, Vietnam | | |
Disembark at My Tho and journey by road to the Cu Chi tunnels. Gain a first-hand insight into the history of the Vietnam War and learn about the immense network of underground tunnels carved out by hand. Continue to Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis formerly known as Saigon, where you'll stay for the next two nights. This evening for dinner, perhaps choose from one of our select experience dining options. Insider Experience – Two Nights at Le Méridien Saigon Experience a stay at the one-of-a-kind Le Méridien Saigon. Set in a prime location on the banks of the Saigon River in bustling District 1, this contemporary hotel is within walking distance to key attractions such as Bến Thành Market and Independence Palace. Enhance Your Journey – Street Food Tour by Motorbike Embark on a thrilling motorbike tour through the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, guided by a knowledgeable local. Savour three courses of classic Vietnamese street food, beginning with a steaming bowl of traditional noodles, followed by a bánh mì, and concluding with a fried rice flour cake – served with fresh juice or a smoothie. Finish at HỢP Sky Bar, a stylish rooftop venue offering panoramic views of the city’s dazzling lights, where you’ll enjoy a drink and a snack. Enhance Your Journey – Hoi An Sense Indulge in the authentic specialties of Hoi An in a unique culinary setting, complete with Vietnamese music and warm hospitality. Enhance Your Journey – Propaganda Vietnamese Bistro Offering traditional Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist, this bistro draws inspiration from the theme of 'propaganda', enchanting guests with its lively ambience and striking hand-painted murals. |
| 19th19 | SepSep | 202828 | My Tho, Vietnam | | |
Disembark at My Tho and journey by road to the Cu Chi tunnels. Gain a first-hand insight into the history of the Vietnam War and learn about the immense network of underground tunnels carved out by hand. Continue to Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis formerly known as Saigon, where you'll stay for the next two nights. This evening for dinner, perhaps choose from one of our select experience dining options. Insider Experience – Two Nights at Le Méridien Saigon Experience a stay at the one-of-a-kind Le Méridien Saigon. Set in a prime location on the banks of the Saigon River in bustling District 1, this contemporary hotel is within walking distance to key attractions such as Bến Thành Market and Independence Palace. Enhance Your Journey – Street Food Tour by Motorbike Embark on a thrilling motorbike tour through the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, guided by a knowledgeable local. Savour three courses of classic Vietnamese street food, beginning with a steaming bowl of traditional noodles, followed by a bánh mì, and concluding with a fried rice flour cake – served with fresh juice or a smoothie. Finish at HỢP Sky Bar, a stylish rooftop venue offering panoramic views of the city’s dazzling lights, where you’ll enjoy a drink and a snack. Enhance Your Journey – Hoi An Sense Indulge in the authentic specialties of Hoi An in a unique culinary setting, complete with Vietnamese music and warm hospitality. Enhance Your Journey – Propaganda Vietnamese Bistro Offering traditional Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist, this bistro draws inspiration from the theme of 'propaganda', enchanting guests with its lively ambience and striking hand-painted murals. |
| 20th20 | SepSep | 202828 | Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam | | |
Romantically referred to by the French as the Pearl of the Orient, Ho Chi Minh City today is a super-charged city of sensory overload. Motorbikes zoom day and night along the wide boulevards, through the narrow back alleys and past vendors pushing handcarts hawking goods of all descriptions. Still called Saigon by most residents, this is Vietnam's largest city and the engine driving the country's current economic resurgence, but despite its frenetic pace, it's a friendlier place than Hanoi and locals will tell you the food—simple, tasty, and incorporating many fresh herbs—is infinitely better than in the capital.This is a city full of surprises. The madness of the city's traffic—witness the oddball things that are transported on the back of motorcycles—is countered by tranquil pagodas, peaceful parks, quirky coffee shops, and whole neighborhoods hidden down tiny alleyways, although some of these quiet spots can be difficult to track down. Life in Ho Chi Minh City is lived in public: on the back of motorcycles, on the sidewalks, and in the parks. Even when its residents are at home, they're still on display. With many living rooms opening onto the street, grandmothers napping, babies being rocked, and food being prepared, are all in full view of passersby.Icons of the past endure in the midst of the city’s headlong rush into capitalism. The Hotel Continental, immortalized in Graham Greene's The Quiet American, continues to stand on the corner of old Indochina's most famous thoroughfare, the rue Catinat, known to American G.I.s during the Vietnam War as Tu Do (Freedom) Street and renamed Dong Khoi (Uprising) Street by the Communists. The city still has its ornate opera house and its old French city hall, the Hôtel de Ville. The broad colonial boulevards leading to the Saigon River and the gracious stucco villas are other remnants of the French colonial presence. Grisly reminders of the more recent past can be seen at the city's war-related museums. Residents, however, prefer to look forward rather than back and are often perplexed by tourists' fascination with a war that ended 40 years ago.The Chinese influence on the country is still very much in evidence in the Cholon district, the city's Chinatown, but the modern office towers and international hotels that mark the skyline symbolize Vietnam's fixation on the future. Today, discover Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace or choose from one of our select experience options. This evening, gather for a sumptuous Farewell Dinner. Enhance Your Journey – Ho Chi Minh City by Foot Explore the bustling city on this walking tour, passing the Saigon Opera House, People’s Committee Building, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Central Post Office. Enhance Your Journey – History of Saigon Delve deeper into Ho Chi Minh City’s turbulent history. Start at the Reunification Palace, visit the War Remnants Museum and see the Burning Monk Memorial. Enhance Your Journey – Shopping Tour by Coach Seek out the city's boutiques as only a local knows and discover locally made items such as clothing, souvenirs and jewellery. |
| 20th20 | SepSep | 202828 | Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam | | |
Romantically referred to by the French as the Pearl of the Orient, Ho Chi Minh City today is a super-charged city of sensory overload. Motorbikes zoom day and night along the wide boulevards, through the narrow back alleys and past vendors pushing handcarts hawking goods of all descriptions. Still called Saigon by most residents, this is Vietnam's largest city and the engine driving the country's current economic resurgence, but despite its frenetic pace, it's a friendlier place than Hanoi and locals will tell you the food—simple, tasty, and incorporating many fresh herbs—is infinitely better than in the capital.This is a city full of surprises. The madness of the city's traffic—witness the oddball things that are transported on the back of motorcycles—is countered by tranquil pagodas, peaceful parks, quirky coffee shops, and whole neighborhoods hidden down tiny alleyways, although some of these quiet spots can be difficult to track down. Life in Ho Chi Minh City is lived in public: on the back of motorcycles, on the sidewalks, and in the parks. Even when its residents are at home, they're still on display. With many living rooms opening onto the street, grandmothers napping, babies being rocked, and food being prepared, are all in full view of passersby.Icons of the past endure in the midst of the city’s headlong rush into capitalism. The Hotel Continental, immortalized in Graham Greene's The Quiet American, continues to stand on the corner of old Indochina's most famous thoroughfare, the rue Catinat, known to American G.I.s during the Vietnam War as Tu Do (Freedom) Street and renamed Dong Khoi (Uprising) Street by the Communists. The city still has its ornate opera house and its old French city hall, the Hôtel de Ville. The broad colonial boulevards leading to the Saigon River and the gracious stucco villas are other remnants of the French colonial presence. Grisly reminders of the more recent past can be seen at the city's war-related museums. Residents, however, prefer to look forward rather than back and are often perplexed by tourists' fascination with a war that ended 40 years ago.The Chinese influence on the country is still very much in evidence in the Cholon district, the city's Chinatown, but the modern office towers and international hotels that mark the skyline symbolize Vietnam's fixation on the future. Today, discover Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace or choose from one of our select experience options. This evening, gather for a sumptuous Farewell Dinner. Enhance Your Journey – Ho Chi Minh City by Foot Explore the bustling city on this walking tour, passing the Saigon Opera House, People’s Committee Building, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Central Post Office. Enhance Your Journey – History of Saigon Delve deeper into Ho Chi Minh City’s turbulent history. Start at the Reunification Palace, visit the War Remnants Museum and see the Burning Monk Memorial. Enhance Your Journey – Shopping Tour by Coach Seek out the city's boutiques as only a local knows and discover locally made items such as clothing, souvenirs and jewellery. |
| 21st21 | SepSep | 202828 | Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam | | |
Romantically referred to by the French as the Pearl of the Orient, Ho Chi Minh City today is a super-charged city of sensory overload. Motorbikes zoom day and night along the wide boulevards, through the narrow back alleys and past vendors pushing handcarts hawking goods of all descriptions. Still called Saigon by most residents, this is Vietnam's largest city and the engine driving the country's current economic resurgence, but despite its frenetic pace, it's a friendlier place than Hanoi and locals will tell you the food—simple, tasty, and incorporating many fresh herbs—is infinitely better than in the capital.This is a city full of surprises. The madness of the city's traffic—witness the oddball things that are transported on the back of motorcycles—is countered by tranquil pagodas, peaceful parks, quirky coffee shops, and whole neighborhoods hidden down tiny alleyways, although some of these quiet spots can be difficult to track down. Life in Ho Chi Minh City is lived in public: on the back of motorcycles, on the sidewalks, and in the parks. Even when its residents are at home, they're still on display. With many living rooms opening onto the street, grandmothers napping, babies being rocked, and food being prepared, are all in full view of passersby.Icons of the past endure in the midst of the city’s headlong rush into capitalism. The Hotel Continental, immortalized in Graham Greene's The Quiet American, continues to stand on the corner of old Indochina's most famous thoroughfare, the rue Catinat, known to American G.I.s during the Vietnam War as Tu Do (Freedom) Street and renamed Dong Khoi (Uprising) Street by the Communists. The city still has its ornate opera house and its old French city hall, the Hôtel de Ville. The broad colonial boulevards leading to the Saigon River and the gracious stucco villas are other remnants of the French colonial presence. Grisly reminders of the more recent past can be seen at the city's war-related museums. Residents, however, prefer to look forward rather than back and are often perplexed by tourists' fascination with a war that ended 40 years ago.The Chinese influence on the country is still very much in evidence in the Cholon district, the city's Chinatown, but the modern office towers and international hotels that mark the skyline symbolize Vietnam's fixation on the future. Your journey comes to an end after breakfast with a transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your onward flight back to the UK. |
| 21st21 | SepSep | 202828 | Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam | | |
Romantically referred to by the French as the Pearl of the Orient, Ho Chi Minh City today is a super-charged city of sensory overload. Motorbikes zoom day and night along the wide boulevards, through the narrow back alleys and past vendors pushing handcarts hawking goods of all descriptions. Still called Saigon by most residents, this is Vietnam's largest city and the engine driving the country's current economic resurgence, but despite its frenetic pace, it's a friendlier place than Hanoi and locals will tell you the food—simple, tasty, and incorporating many fresh herbs—is infinitely better than in the capital.This is a city full of surprises. The madness of the city's traffic—witness the oddball things that are transported on the back of motorcycles—is countered by tranquil pagodas, peaceful parks, quirky coffee shops, and whole neighborhoods hidden down tiny alleyways, although some of these quiet spots can be difficult to track down. Life in Ho Chi Minh City is lived in public: on the back of motorcycles, on the sidewalks, and in the parks. Even when its residents are at home, they're still on display. With many living rooms opening onto the street, grandmothers napping, babies being rocked, and food being prepared, are all in full view of passersby.Icons of the past endure in the midst of the city’s headlong rush into capitalism. The Hotel Continental, immortalized in Graham Greene's The Quiet American, continues to stand on the corner of old Indochina's most famous thoroughfare, the rue Catinat, known to American G.I.s during the Vietnam War as Tu Do (Freedom) Street and renamed Dong Khoi (Uprising) Street by the Communists. The city still has its ornate opera house and its old French city hall, the Hôtel de Ville. The broad colonial boulevards leading to the Saigon River and the gracious stucco villas are other remnants of the French colonial presence. Grisly reminders of the more recent past can be seen at the city's war-related museums. Residents, however, prefer to look forward rather than back and are often perplexed by tourists' fascination with a war that ended 40 years ago.The Chinese influence on the country is still very much in evidence in the Cholon district, the city's Chinatown, but the modern office towers and international hotels that mark the skyline symbolize Vietnam's fixation on the future. Your journey comes to an end after breakfast with a transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your onward flight back to the UK. |
| 22nd22 | SepSep | 202828 | Cruising | | |
| 22nd22 | SepSep | 202828 | Cruising | | |
