Overview
Indochina. The Mekong River. Angkor Wat. These names evoke appealing images of unique cultures, magnificent Buddhist and Hindu temples, and lush tropical landscapes punctuated by a patchwork of rice paddies. Join us for a fascinating exploration through Vietnam and Cambodia, including a 7-night Mekong River cruise aboard the Avalon Saigon, a riverboat that embodies the gracious heritage and beauty of Southeast Asia, combined with a romantic French colonial style and all the modern comforts. Her small size allows us to experience this mighty river from an intimate and authentic perspective, stepping into local homes to see how people live and work, and gliding past local markets in the early-morning hours as they come to life.
Our program begins with a stay in Ho Chi Minh City, a busy and dynamic city still known by many as Saigon, and ends with two full days to explore the remarkable Khmer temples and monuments of legendary Angkor, one of Asias most exquisite archaeological gems. In between, the Mekong River takes us into the fascinating but seldom-visited world of one of Asia`s great waterways. Marvel at floating villages whose residents literally live on the water—working, shopping, even attending school and church. Tour a family run handcrafted sampan boat workshop, visit local hat crafters and a rice wine brewer, and experiment with typical Vietnamese ingredients during a cooking demonstration. A pre-trip extension to Hanoi and breathtaking Ha Long Bay is also available. For more info click on the Add-Ons tab.
Program Highlights
- Cruise for seven nights aboard the privately chartered 18 suite Avalon Saigon whose small size allows visits to villages not accessible to larger boats, as well as embarkation in Ho Chi Minh City port itself (others miss parts of the Mekong Delta by embarking in My Tho).
- Stay in comfortable suites measuring 245 sq. ft., each with panoramic floor-to-ceiling glass French doors, deluxe spa-quality linens and amenities, as well as individual climate control.
- Spend five nights in luxurious hotels on either side of cruise - two nights in dynamic Ho Chi Minh City’s Park Hyatt Hotel and three nights at Grand Raffles Hotel or Park Hyatt in Siem Reap.
- Learn from excellent local guides throughout with continuity of guides within each country a special bonus.
- Travel by sampan, traditional wooden boats, through mangrove channels to visit local workshops.
- Attend local cultural performances including a children’s orphanage dance troupe.
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage temples of Angkor, including sunrise views of Angkor Wat from the peaceful surroundings of Ba Kheng Temple.
- Experience authentic village life during visits to local markets, farms and rural villages.