Cambodia and Vietnam Explorer

Cambodia is one of Asia’s most talked about destinations today, and it offers is a treat for the senses that travellers remember for a lifetime. Vietnam is renowned for its industrious, welcoming people, fascinating history and exquisite fresh cuisine. Enjoy the rewards of exploring two of Asia’s most alluring countries on our Cambodia & Vietnam Explorer.

Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s charming capital, and this is where our journey begins. The resilience and welcoming nature of the Cambodian people is overwhelming. They have embraced their culture and traditions with new fervor after emerging from a tragic recent history. The Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Museum are poignant reminders of the insanity of the Pol Pot era, and a visit to these sites is important to understand this fundamental element of Cambodia’s past. 

Wander down wide boulevards, past intricate palaces and faded colonial buildings to discover other facets of this fascinating country. Take a cyclo ride at dusk along the lovely quayside and enjoy delicious local fare at one of the many restaurants that dot the river promenade. And then return home to our opulent base, the Raffles Hotel le Royal. 

Siem Reap is the gateway to the temples of Angkor, but one of our first explorations will be on the ecological marvel of Tonle Sap Lake. Just outside of Siem Reap town, we will visit floating villages, complete with floating schools, restaurants and farms on the waters of Tonle Sap. The following day we rise early to witness sunrise at Angkor Wat – a truly spectacular and memorable sight. After exploring this glorious building, visit the fortified city of Angkor Thom, the atmospheric Bayon, jungle-covered Ta Prohm and ornate Banteay Srei.

Departing Cambodia, we travel to bustling Vietnam where we are welcomed by the bright lights and fast pace of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Take time to wander the ancient streets, then watch as a sea of motorbikes converges at the city’s centre from the comfort of our hotel’s rooftop bar. The historic Caravelle provides five-star service and accommodation in the city’s best location. Visit famous sites including Cholon (China Town) and the Presidential Palace, now known as the Reunification Palace. The Cu Chi tunnels give an insight into Vietnam’s turbulent past, and our day trip to the Mekong takes us to the lush, verdant region known as the ‘rice bowl’ of the country.

In Central Vietnam we explore the moated ruins of Hue’s Citadel and visit the city’s oldest pagoda. Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on the Perfume River, and later, see the impressive tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, the fourth emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty.

The drive from Hue to Hoi An along the Hai Van Pass is the most scenic in Vietnam, as it passes through stunning rural and coastal scenery. Wander through enchanting Hoi An’s narrow alleyways, markets, historic houses and temples. Enjoy a sunset cruise on the tranquil Thu Bon River, and enjoy plenty of free time for shopping, sampling local cuisine and relaxing at the beautiful riverside Life Resort.

In Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, we stay in the luxurious Sofitel Metropole; a hotel which truly embodies the romance of a bygone era. Hanoi is more traditional than commercial Saigon, and the faded elegance of France’s presence is evident in the wide tree-lined boulevards. Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a vibrant maze of streets, each known for traditionally selling a particular ware, such as silk, shoes, ceramics or bamboo. A cyclo ride is a great way to view local life on the narrow lane ways and streets. 

We travel to enchanting Halong Bay and cruise among the thousands of karst limestone islands. This magical experience includes a sumptuous fresh seafood lunch on board our private boat. Cuisine is a highlight of a journey through Vietnam, and we dine at one of the city’s fine restaurants back in Hanoi after a relaxing day on the water.

This amazing journey explores two very different countries of Indochina. Learn about historic kingdoms of the past that will play an increasing role in the development of our future as we meet the welcoming people of Cambodia and Vietnam.

Click here to find out more about our Cambodia And Vietnam Explorer Small Group Journey.