Exquisite Cambodia & Vietnam

• Day 1:

  Welcome to Siem Reap – home to Angkor, the treasure of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Our tour guide will be waiting to welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. This afternoon, visit Angkor Wat temple, the largest temple in the world, with a volume of stone equaling that of the Cheops pyramid in Egypt. It is unlike all the other Khmer temples in that it faces west, and is inspired by 12th Century Hinduism. Its symmetrical towers are stylized on the modern Cambodian flag. Conceived by Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat took an estimated 30 years to build. It is generally believed to have been a funeral temple for the king. It has been occupied continuously by Buddhist monks and is well preserved. Intricate bas-reliefs surround Angkor Wat on four sides. Each tells a story. The most celebrated of these is the Churning of the Ocean of Milk, which is located on the east wing. In it the Naga serpent, is twisted by demons and gods to spurt out the elixir of life. Overnight at Jaya House River Park

• Day 2:

  After breakfast at your hotel visit of the monumental magnificence of Angkor Thom - last capital of the Khmers, with it’s the South Gate of Angkor Thom, Bayon temple, Baphoun temple, Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King. This 12th century masterpiece lies at the very centre of Angkor Thom and is an archaeological wonder of symmetry and grandeur. The exterior gallery walls have extensive bas-reliefs but the highlight is the “faces”, more than 200 of them, silent but with the famous half-smile playing on their lips. PJ de Beerski wrote of them; “godliness in the majesty and the size, mystery in the expression.” Note: During the visit of the Baphoun temple, visitors are required to wear a proper attire, covering shoulders and knees as this temple is still considered as a sacred site (no short, miniskirt or short trousers). This afternoon, we continue our exploration of Angkor’s impressive temple and city ruins, the temple of Ta Prohm; this is the only temple that was left to the jungle and largely in its natural state since its “re-discovery” of Angkor in the late 1800’s by French explorers. Surrounded by jungle, its labyrinth of stone hallways is overgrown with the roots and limbs of massive banyan trees, which envelop the stone like tentacles. It is one of the largest temples at Angkor, dedicated in 1186. Historians have noted its mystical charm. Continue to Preah Khan "The Sacred Sword", an extensive monastic complex covering over 56 hectares built by the Khmer King Jayavarman VII as a monastery and teaching complex. It is one of a group of temple complexes situated on a small 'Baray'. Preah Khan is the site of the World Monuments Fund ‘prime’ Asian project a painstaking renovation whilst maintaining its mysterious allures and superb original structure. Visit to Neak Pean, unique because it is a sanctuary located in the centre of an artificial ponds and surrounded by 4 points exactly as the Cardinals lake. Overnight at Jaya House River Park

• Day 3:

  This morning after breakfast, transfer to Siem Reap International Airport and board the flight to Phnom Penh . Upon arrival, meet and transfer to the hotel. This afternoon, depart to visit of the Royal Palace, The Royal Palace serves as the residence of the King, a venue for court ceremony and as a symbol of the Kingdom. It was first established at its present location when the capital was moved from Oudong to Phnom Penh in 1866 under King Norodom and the French protectorate, though the Palace did not attain its current general form until about 1920. Khmer and European elements as well as distinct architectural echoes of the palace in Bangkok are present in the design of the various buildings. Silver Pagoda (Wat Preah Keo Morokat) located within the Royal Palace compound, the Silver Pagoda is so names because of its floor, which is made up of 5,000 silver tiles. The treasures are a solid gold Buddha encrusted with 9, 584 diamonds and weighing 90kilos and a small 17th century emerald and baccarat crystal Buddha. It is where the King meets with monks for Royal ceremonies are performed and it houses a collection of priceless Buddhist and historical objects including the 'Emerald Buddha.' And, unlike most pagodas, no monks live at the pagoda. The temple building, library and galleries were first constructed between 1892 and 1902. Overnight at La Rose Suite Hotel

• Day 4:

  After breakfast at the hotel meet and transfer to Phnom Penh Harbor. Upon arrival, check-in and depart by Jayavarman Cruise to Saigon. The lounge is set up for a captivating lecture about Cambodian modern history, held by a professor of the Royal University of Phnom Penh. Definitely a highlights of this cruise receiving knowledge first hand as our lecturer has studied the subject extensively and personally. The whole afternoon is at your own arrangements. From now on, even the last passenger will turn on his cruise mode and hopefully experience the therapeutic influence that this mighty river radiates. It is time for massages, relaxation on the sun bed, and private balcony kick-backs - it’s time to merge with the river. Some may like to visit the bridge as the captain always has a little story to share about “his” river. Float into a state of mild bliss. Before totally drifting away, do not forget lunchtime around noon. A culinary class is offered in the afternoon to sharpen your knowledge and skills on the local cuisine. Before slumbering in a nap, join our High Tea with coffee and snacks if you like to. We reach the border and finally arrive in Vietnam. From here it is just a short distance to Tan Chau, a pleasant, slow-paced border town with a sizeable Chinese, Kinh and Khmer community. We moor near the city with views on the riverbanks. Dinner will be served soon and you can join our evening cinema with another selected classic movie afterwards. Overnight aboard the Jayavarman Cruise

• Day 5:

  Welcome to the fish sanctuary of Vietnam. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the dining hall or in the quiet privacy of your balcony. Brace yourself for a tour around Tan Chau, a pleasant, slow-paced town near the Cambodian border with a sizeable Chinese, Kinh and Khmer community. Once arrived on-shore we hop on “xelois” to explore Tan Chau. A “xeloi” is a local vehicle which is still used as a taxi in this region. We slowly move around the streets to see all the workshops, houses and domiciles. Get to feel the laid- back vibes of this place. We stop at the colorful, local market near one of the ancient temples. This is the best time to interact with the vendors of this friend- ly town and make your own bargain experience. We board our local boats and cruise along floating houses until we finally reach a floating fish farm. This region is the source of a fish production that is sold all over the world. We get an exclusive insight in how fish farming works. Back on board before lunch is served, you may like to pamper yourself with some spa treatments or take a dip into the pool on the sun deck. Our expert guides offer a presentation on the “Life on the Mekong Delta” as the ship continues to My An Hung near the Sa Dec province. Before we arrive mingle with fellow passengers and share some stories. We will set off for the My An Hung Village. In the village we receive wonderful insights into the private household of a local family. We are allowed to visit their vegetable garden and access the seasonal vegetable fields via crossing a monkey bridge. We are also invited to their house for a Vietnamese tea tasting. Vietnamese tea is often bitter and locals sweeten it with honey. The honey is produced by the family, a true delicacy in this region. We are offered fruits - juicy, fresh, and right from the tree. A local artist group performs a typical traditional dragon dance while we munch on those natural “vitamins bombs”. As the sun sets and the light bathes everything golden, we settle on a riverbank gathering with cocktails to recap the day. Back on the ship we cruise downstream the Mekong. Refresh yourself and get ready for dinner. The ship moors mid-river near Sa Dec. Overnight aboard the Jayavarman Cruise

• Day 6:

  In the morning we arrive at the island of Binh Thanh. We embark on a local boat and head towards Binh Thanh Island. Binh Thanh is one of the larger islands in the vast stream of the Mekong. Some communities have settled here and make their living by growing water hyacinths. We exclusively visit one of those untouched areas. By wandering through the village we get a deep understanding of the native life. But moreover, we can follow the whole process of their traditional mat making. You can try weaving yourself which is still done manually. We will also meet an old local couple who share their story on this island. They are happy for any chit-chat with you. Back on board lunch is served and you have some time to leisurely spend onboard while we cruise along the Mekong. In the early afternoon we arrive in Cai Be, a charming town which is famous for its Catholic French church and their manufacture of traditional crafts and food products. The floating market of Cai Be is getting smaller every year, since trading on the water is shifting more and more to the modern central markets. We can still see some boat to boat trading of local goods, such as fruits and agricultural products. Our guide will explain all the particulars of this long lasting trading culture. Each boat has a special marker that lets buyers know what goods they are selling. Afterwards we go on-shore to visit a workshop where we learn how rice paste, rice paper, rice cookies and rice wine is manufactured. Cai Be and its surrounding areas are covered by palm trees and hence the region is also famous for the production of coconut candies. The city is crisscrossed by many water canals. By local boat we will explore the lush and green canal network and observe the farmers working in the fields. As the sun sets, our crew invites you to a farewell event. Before dinner, you can enjoy dances and music together with the crew. The ships moor at My Tho. Overnight aboard the Jayavarman Cruise

• Day 7:

  Enjoy your last breakfast aboard your floating home. We will disembark the ship after breakfast and take a bus transfer from My Tho to the drop off point in Saigon. You will arrive in Saigon by mid-morning. Meet at the drop-off point and you will be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel for check- in and the rest of day is at leisure. Overnight at Liberty Central Sai Gon Citypoint Hotel

• Day 8:

  After breakfast meet our tour guide at your hotel’s lobby and drive to Cu Chi Tunnels- synonymous with the Vietnam War and a testament to the determined spirit of the Vietnamese, the underground network of passages at Cu Chi is a fascinating day trip out of the city. Work on the tunnels began during the war against the French in the 1940s and over the next 25 years as the conflict with America escalated, they were improved and expanded to create an underground city of meeting areas, storerooms, living quarters and much more. The tunnels allowed the Viet Cong to control a vital area of South Vietnam and at their height, extended for more than 200KM in length and stretched from what was then Saigon to the Cambodian border. Preserved as a memorial park, two sections of this remarkable network are open to the public. Visiting the area at Ben Dinh, there is the option to go below the surface and visit sections of the tunnels first hand. The more adventurous may go deeper and your guide will be on hand to give guidance on the degree of expected difficulty. There is plenty of interest above ground as well and it is recommended to bring good footwear, sunscreen and a hat. Please note you may get a little dusty if you decide to go underground. This afternoon, visit the Reunification Palace, formerly named the Presidential Palace, this important city landmark was assured its place in history on 30th April 1975, when the first North Vietnamese tanks rumbled past, signalling the Fall of Saigon and ultimately the end of the Vietnam War. Now a museum complete with period meeting areas, war rooms and a basement communication centre, after your visit, walk the short distance to Notre Dame Cathedral. At the centre of HCMC’s government district, this romantic church dates back to the late 19th century and is a popular backdrop for wedding photographs. Across the street from the cathedral is the city’s striking French colonial-era post office, whilst Hotel de Ville de Saigon, officially Ho Chi Minh City Hall, is another of the city’s more prominent buildings. The Museum of Vietnamese History is housed in yet another fine example of Sino-French architecture. Dating back to the 1920s, it contains an excellent series of exhibits dating from the Bronze Age to the Nguyen dynasty, the last ruling family of Vietnam. As an alternative to the Museum of Vietnamese History, visit the elegant Fine Arts Museum with its impressive collection of ancient and modern art and sculptures, or the War Remnants Museum, which is primarily dedicated to the Vietnam War but also includes exhibits dating back to the French colonialist period and the first Indochina War. The final stop today is the unforgettable Jade Emperor Pagoda. With the pungent smell of incense hanging heavy in the air and an interior packed full of ornate carvings and fierce-looking statues, this Taoist temple is one of the most atmospheric places of worship in the city. Transfer back to your hotel after your visit or alternatively be dropped off at Ben Thanh market for personal exploration and a spot of souvenir hunting. The rest of day at leisure. Overnight at Liberty Central Jai Bon Citypoint Hotel

• Day 9:

  After breakfast meet your guide for a full day Mekong Delta - Cai Be Town tour. The Mekong Delta is a rich fertile region of farmland interlaced with countless waterways crisscrossed by low-lying rice paddies. Today you will explore one of the country’s most enchanting landscapes travelling by car to the Delta town of Cai Be before boarding the Mekong Queen, a traditional bamboo-covered wooden boat. One of the Delta’s most ubiquitous sights is its floating markets and your first stop today will be the colourful Cai Be market, one of the best-known and oldest in Vietnam, which began trading during the 19th century Nguyen Dynasty. Here you can witness the brisk activity as vendors barter with shoppers and goods are transferred from one boat to another. These waterborne shops each specialise in a few kinds of fruit or vegetable and you will see samples of their goods hanging from tall wooden poles allowing customers to easily identify what is for sale. Development of the road network means there is less waterborne trading than in previous years. Visit a small family business to see how crispy rice popcorn, coconut candy and rice paper are made, perhaps sampling some of these popular snacks with a cup of green tea. Return to the Mekong Queen and navigate the Delta’s tributaries to Dong Hoa Hiep Island, a journey of around 50 minutes, during which time you will discover beautiful riverine landscapes and observe typical life in the Mekong Delta. Explore the island on foot, walking through local villages and fruit gardens, visiting a family whose livelihood depends on processing longan fruit. Visit an ancient Mandarin house dating from the 19th century where several generations of the same family live together. Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch before spending a little more time with this friendly and hardworking community with plenty of opportunity for photographs and interaction. Returning back to the Mekong Queen either on foot or by small rowing boat, journey through the Dong Hoa Hiep canal back to the pier in Cai Be. Time permitting, visit the home of Mr Ba Duc and his family, the 6th generation of the family to live in this traditional house first built in the 19th century. At approximately 2:30 pm you will return back to Ho Chi Minh by car and the rest of day at leisure. Overnight at Liberty Central Jai Bon Citypoint Hotel

• Day 10:

  After breakfast at your hotel, meet your guide and driver for a drive to the Tan Son Nhat Airport for your departure flight.

June 01 – September 30, 2020 

Per Person Sharing:       $3,499

October 01 – 31, 2020

Per Person Sharing:     $4,199

SERVICES INCLUDED

• Accommodation at selected hotel with daily breakfast included
• All transportation by air conditioned private vehicle for all included sightseeing
• Services of local English speaking guides (Except day free at leisure without transportation and guide as mentioned)
• Meals as mentioned in program (Drink is not included)
• All entrance fees to sites and 2-3 days Angkor Pass in Siem Reap
• Four days/three nights Jayavarman Cruise Phnom Penh – Saigon
• Water & cool towels on vehicle during tour

SERVICES NOT INCLUDED

• Visa for Cambodia (Visa issued on arrival for most nationalities, USD30/pax (tourist visa), please bring 1 passport photo).
• Vietnam visas fee & processing fee (USD25 & USD20 net per person respectively)
• Any surcharge/extra fees for visit of the Angkor Historical site imposed by the Apsara Authorities in Siem Reap which are subject to change without prior notice
• Meals are not mentioned
• International flights to/from Cambodia
• Optional Tour
• Camera/video entrance fees if applicable
• Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, telephone, tips for the guide, etc)
• Other services not clearly indicated in the package inclusions above