Vietnam & Cambodia: Temples, rivers & ancient cities

Enjoy complimentary access to a UK airport lounge before your overnight flight to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam.

A private transfer awaits upon arrival in the vibrant Vietnamese capital, whisking you away to your hotel in the heart of the bustling city. Your inaugural full day is entirely at your leisure, affording you ample time to acclimate and embark on an independent exploration of this fascinating metropolis. The following day is dedicated to exploring Hanoi's rich history and spirited culture. Begin with a guided tour through the Ho Chi Minh Complex, including the revered mausoleum, the Presidential Palace and the iconic "house on stilts." Then, delve into the legacy of Vietnam's revolutionary past at the Hanoi Hilton Museum – a poignant reminder of wartime history – before experiencing the city's soul with a cyclo ride through the bustling Old Quarter, exploring its charming alleyways and tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake. There will also be time to marvel at the grandeur of the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, and admire the serene beauty of Tran Quoc and Ngoc Son Temples.

Stay: Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi

Depart Hanoi by car before a private speedboat brings you to Halong Bay and the graceful designer ship, Heritage Line 'Ginger', for the start of a unique journey. Kick back and enjoy unparalleled views of rugged limestone karsts and striking beaches as you cruise towards the spectacular Lan Ha Bay. A delicious lunch follows aboard the ship’s nearly 360-degree light-flooded restaurant, featuring live cooking – a truly one of a kind experience. There is time to enjoy the facilities on board, with the likes of the infinity pool or pampering spa treatments. As you reach the shore of a small lagoon on Cat Ba Island, embark on a scenic bike ride through the enchanting Viet Hai village as you experience authentic Vietnamese village life. Back on board, enjoy a mouthwatering dinner follows by sunset cocktails or a captivating movie under the stars before retiring to your opulent and spacious suite for the night.

Stay: Heritage Line Ginger

Enjoy a rejuvenating Tai Chi session as the sun rises on the terrace deck before cruising to Frog Lake for the chance of a refreshing swim or an invigorating kayak adventure through a labyrinth of jade-green water and dramatic cliffs. Savour the last moments on board with a delicious brunch before disembarking and journeying back to Hanoi for your flight to Danang and transfer to Hoi An beyond. Check in to your opulent hotel situated on the banks of the Thu Bon River, with stunning views and easy access to the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The following day, explore Hoi An's vibrant central market, join an informative tour of Vy’s market restaurant and enjoy a private cooking lesson including a chance to sample your creations. In the afternoon, join a walking tour of the picturesque city including a stop by the home of a silk lantern craftsman in the old quarter where you'll have a chance to make our own lantern to take home as a souvenir.

Following breakfast, transfer to the airport for a scenic flight to Saigon where you'll be welcomed and transferred to a local restaurant for lunch. Now known as Ho Chi Minh City, the city has a rich and complex history, starting originally as a small fishing village before transforming into a major port city and a centre for French colonial power in Southeast Asia. Arrive to your hotel after lunch before a visit to the Reunification Palace and the poignant War Remnants Museum. Later in the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant Dong Khoi Street.

The next day, embark on a thrilling speedboat trip to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, exploring the intricate network of underground passages. After a leisurely lunch and some free time, experience the true essence of Saigon on a unique "Foodie by Vespa" tour, gliding through the city's vibrant streets and savouring delicious local cuisine at authentic eateries.

Stay: Hotel Des Arts

Begin your Mekong Delta adventure by leaving Saigon and embarking on your luxurious floating "home" in My Tho. As you step aboard, the elegant style and décor of Jahan will transport you back in time with an aura evoking the glory of former British-India. Settle in with a delicious welcome lunch as you travel upstream towards Cai Be, where you'll anchor for a first glimpse of the bustling river life. The next day, explore the enchanting Tan Phong Island – situated on one of the expansive Mekong River tributaries – as you visit local families, witnessing the traditional production of rice paper, cookies, and wine. Back on board, enjoy dinner accompanied by scenic views of the Mekong. 

Stay: The Jahan

On your final full day of the cruise, disembark for a visit to the vibrant town of Tan Chau – a border town – via your personal xelois (rickshaw) driver. Taking you through a network of winding streets, you'll visit a local market, a Cao Dai temple, – meeting with one of the priests who will enlighten you about the unique beliefs and spirit of Cao Dai – and a family owned fish farm. Back aboard, travel upstream as you cross into Cambodia.

Stay: The Jahan

Enjoy your last breakfast aboard your floating home before disembarking the ship, transferring to your hotel in Phnom Penh. Once named Paris of the East, the city has retained a lot of its rustic charm and elegance, and despite its rapid development, centuries of incredible history and culture can still be felt at many street corners. Settle into your hotel, restored from a former American embassy, and enjoy some free time before dinner at one of Phnom Penh's many fine restaurants this evening. The following day, embark on a guided tour of the city showcasing the rich tapestry of history and culture on offer. After years of violence and terror, Phnom Penh has reinventing itself as a city. Marvel at the gilded splendour of the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, two architectural gems that demonstrate the Kingdom's grandeur. After lunch, delve into the darker chapters of Cambodia's past with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, haunting reminders of the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge. An included dinner at a local restaurant concludes an immersive day.

Stay: White Mansion Hotel

Transfer to Phnom Penh airport for your flight to Siem Reap where you'll enjoy an included lunch before arriving at your tranquil hotel nestled on the city's edge. Later in the afternoon, prepare to be mesmerised by the grandeur of Angkor Wat. Explore the vast temple complex, wandering through its grand interiors, hallowed corridors and upper terraces with your esteemed local historian guide, who will unravel the captivating stories etched within the intricate bas-reliefs. As the day draws to a close, savour a breathtaking sunset over the awe-inspiring temple ruins, weather permitting, from a secluded vantage point.

As the sun rises the following morning, casting long shadows across the jaw-dropping temple complex, you'll be awestruck by the sheer scale and beauty of this man-made marvel. After exploring the heart of Angkor Wat, venture deeper into the jungle, guided by your expert historian, to uncover hidden gems – the enigmatic Bayon, the serene Preah Khan, and the captivating Ta Prohm, forever immortalised by the daring exploits of Lara Croft.

Stay: Shinta Mani Angkor

Escape the urban bustle today as you're whisked away to the majestic Tonlé Sap, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake. Embark on a serene boat journey, gliding across its shimmering surface as you approach the enchanting floating villages – home to vibrant communities teeming with life. Visit the Gecko Environment Centre, an esteemed UN-supported initiative safeguarding the lake's precious biodiversity, before venturing further into the mangrove forests, navigating through a labyrinthine waterway. Witness the industrious local fishermen at work, their colourful boats dancing on the waves. Return to Siem Reap for some free time before being escorted by your guide to an exceptional dinner show held within a charming wooden theatre. The exquisite dinner commences at in the early evening, followed by a traditional Apsara dance performance.

Stay: Shinta Mani Angkor

Your final morning is at leisure before transferring to Siem Reap airport for your overnight connecting flight back to the UK.