Vietnam and Cambodia

Upon arrival, we settle into our charming hotel before embarking on a delightful introduction to Hanoi. Hop on a cycle rickshaw and meander through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, where vibrant markets and colonial-era architecture paint a rich picture of the city’s past. Afterward, we return to our hotel, with the rest of the day free to relax or explore at your own pace. 

Today, we dive into the vibrant blend of Hanoi’s past and present. Founded by the French, the city is a masterpiece of colonial elegance, where tree-line boulevards, grand belle époque villas, and magnificent public buildings form an attractive backdrop. The Opera House stands proudly amidst more than a dozen serene lakes, each adding to the city’s tranquil charm. This refined scene is effortlessly intertwined with the bustling Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets that has served as the commercial hub for centuries, now filled with quaint shops, sacred pagodas, and the constant hum of bicycles and mopeds weaving through the crowds.

Our guided tour takes us to the remarkable Temple of Literature, dedicated to Confucius and Vietnam’s first university, offering a glimpse into the country’s intellectual heritage. We also visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a solemn and imposing structure housing the embalmed remains of the beloved leader, forever preserved for public view. 

In the afternoon, you’re free to explore Hanoi at your own pace. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider attending a traditional water puppet show (bookable locally), where colourful puppets, accompanied by music and fireworks, bring ancient folk tales to life in a stunning display of artistry and culture. 

Today, we embark on a journey to Halong Bay, Vietnam’s crown jewel and a UNESCO World Heritage site. As we leave Hanoi behind, the landscape transitions to peaceful rice paddies and winding paths through the Red River Delta, leading us towards the sparkling emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. Here, we encounter one of nature’s most impressive creations – an expanse of nearly 3,000 limestone islands and jagged outcrops rising dramatically from the sea, creating a breathtaking seascape.

We board a traditional Chinese junk, a beautifully restored wooden boat, and set sail across the jade waters, surrounded by the dramatic karst formations. It’s easy to imagine the mythical legends surrounding the bay, with stories of a dragon whose mighty tail carved these islands as it plunged into the sea. We explore the caves and grottoes, some lit with a soft glow that reveals their mysterious beauty, before enjoying a leisurely lunch on board. After a day immersed in this natural wonder, we head back to Hanoi in the late afternoon, carrying with use memories of one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes. 

Today, we take a scenic flight south to Danang, then embark on a drive through the grand Hai Van Pass, where the road winds through luscious mountainsides and offers panoramic views of the coastline below. As we descend into Hue, we enter the heart of Vietnam’s imperial history. Once the country’s royal capital, Hue is a wonderful town, split by the peaceful Perfume River, with its dramatic Citadel dominating the skyline. This ancient fortress, surrounded by an impressive 6-mile stretch of 65-foot-thick walls and a protective moat, encapsulates the grandeur of the past.

We’ll spend the next two nights at the luxurious Senna Hue Hotel, enjoying the comfort and elegance of this five-star haven, including daily breakfast. 

This morning, we embark on a serene river cruise to the stunning Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven-tiered Buddhist shrine that offers magnificent views of the mountains marking the border with Laos. As we glide along the Perfume River, we soak in the tranquillity of this sacred site, one of Vietnam’s most iconic landmarks. 

Next, we explore the Citadel, a vast complex that houses the Imperial City. Within these ancient walls lies the Palace of Supreme Harmony, where the emperor’s throne was once located. This grand structure, adorned in rich shades of red and gold, is a testament to the opulence and ceremonial significance that once defined the royal court of Vietnam. 

In the afternoon, we continue our journey to the mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc, a ruler more renowned for his love of poetry than for his governance. With 104 wives and luxurious banquets featuring 50-course meals, Tu Duc’s lifestyle was nothing short of extravagant. His mausoleum, built by 3,000 workers over three years, is a beautiful retreat with a serene lake, pavilions, and even a theatre; an enduring symbol of his lavish reign. 

Today, we take a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as the locals still fondly call it. Brimming with energy and a spirited zest for life, this vibrant metropolis is a striking blend of period grandeur and modern dynamism. Originally crafted by the French along the banks of the mighty Saigon River, this city pulses with an infectious vitality. We’ll settle in for a three-night stay at the Equatorial Hotel, an excellent five-star property, offering comfort and convenience at the heart of the action.

As Vietnam’s culinary capital, Saigon delights with a dazzling array of dining options. From sophisticated restaurants in luxury hotels to authentic French, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, and Indian eateries – and everything in between – you'll have endless opportunities to savour the diverse and flavourful cuisine. 

To top off the day, immerse yourself in the unique charm of the Saigon River on an unforgettable evening cruise. As you glide past the sparkling city skyline, enjoy a delicious Vietnamese meal while the shimmering lights of the city dance on the water. 

Today promises to be an unforgettable experience as we explore the legendary Cu Chi tunnels; an extraordinary underground network stretching over 200 kilometres. Originally established during the final years of French colonial rule and expanded dramatically in the 1960s, these tunnels served as a vital base for the Vietcong during the Vietnam War. They include hospitals, meeting rooms, sleeping quarters, and kitchens, all ingeniously concealed beneath the Earth’s surface, just 30 miles from Saigon.

Our visit offers a captivating view into a tumultuous period in history. We’ll walk through the tunnels, marvelling at their complexity and resilience, and discover the hidden traps and stake pits designed to defend them. Despite the relentless carpet bombing, these tunnels remained largely intact. For those seeking a deeper connection to the history, there’s even an opportunity to handle period weapons and test them on a firing range, offering a truly immersive experience. 

Our journey takes us through charming rural farming villages as we make our way back to Saigon. In the afternoon, we embark on a city tour that covers the must-see landmarks, starting with the grand colonial-era Central Post Office and the striking Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral. A stop at the Reunification Palace is next, where history was forever altered in 1975 when a tank famously crashed through its gates, marking the symbolic end of the Vietnam War.

We’ll also visit the War Remnants Museum, which offers a sobering yet essential look at the conflict’s impact, before wandering through the bustling Ben Thanh Market. This vibrant marketplace offers an authentic taste of local life, where you can shop for everything from spices to textiles, all at remarkably affordable prices. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the energy of Saigon and experience its dynamic street culture first-hand. 

Today, we set off from the bustling Saigon towards the tranquil Mekong River Delta. Our first stop is one of the picturesque islands, where we take a leisurely stroll through a traditional village and sample a variety of tropical fruits grown in the region. Next, we board small boats to venture deeper into the delta’s maze of narrow canals, heading towards Coconut Island. Here, locals craft rice paper, coconut cakes, and other regional treats-offering a fascinating glimpse at the artisanal life of the area. As we glide through the canals, dappled sunlight dances through dense mangroves, creating a serene and almost magical atmosphere.

We pause for a delicious lunch at a local riverside restaurant, savouring the flavours of the delta before making our way back to Saigon in the afternoon, with the peaceful sights of the river still lingering. 

On our final morning in Vietnam, we have little time to soak in the energy of Saigon with a leisurely stroll through the city centre. We stop for a fragrant coffee and a delicious pastry at one of the many charming cafés that line the streets, allowing ourselves a final taste of the city before we board our short flight to Phnom Penh.

Upon arrival, we check into the centrally located, four-star Palace Gate Hotel, where we’ll spend the next two nights, enjoying the comfort of our accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, and preparing to explore the vibrant capital of Cambodia. 

Today, we step into the heart of Phnom Penh with a visit to the Royal Palace, a stunning architectural masterpiece that houses the revered Silver Pagoda, gleaming with its intricate design. We’ll also explore the National Museum, where centuries of Cambodian culture and history are beautifully preserved.

After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, we continue our journey to the poignant Tuol Sleng Museum. Once a school, it was transformed into one of the most infamous prisons during the Khmer Rouge regime. The museum now stands as a testament to the tragic events of the past, sharing the powerful stories of suffering and survival.

Before we head back to our hotel for a restful evening, we’ll take some time to explore the vibrant stalls of a local market, where the colourful sights and sounds of Phnom Penh come alive. 

Today, we venture deep into the countryside of Cambodia, where the landscapes unfold in tranquil beauty. Our journey takes us to Kompong Thom, a pleasant town where we’ll pause for a delightful lunch, before continuing to the bustling city of Siem Reap.

Today, we explore one of the world’s most majestic religious sites: the Angkor Wat. As the soft glow of the morning sun illuminates the ancient ruins, there’s a sense of magic in the air. In its heyday during the 13th Century, Angkor was a thriving metropolis with over a million residents. The intricate beauty of its architecture and the preservation of its stone sculptures have earned it a place among the wonders of the world.

Our journey continues with a visit to Angkor Thom, a fortified Medieval city. The monumental gates and the vast, 300-foot-wide moat set the stage for the temple at its heart, Bayon, known for its iconic faces carved into towering stone. We also venture to Ta Prohm, a smaller yet equally captivating temple where nature and history intertwine. Here, massive trees have taken root amidst the ruins, their tangled roots weaving through the stone like nature’s own artwork. 

Set out on a serene boat ride across Tonle Sap Lake, where you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of Cambodia’s countryside. Along the way, we make a stop at one of the remarkable floating villages that dot the lake. Here, boats serve as the primary means of transportation, and the community thrives on the lake’s abundant resources, offering a rare insight into the way of life that has existed for generations. (Note: Visits are subject to seasonal water levels.) 

Next, immerse yourself in the peaceful, spiritual atmosphere of a local Khmer temple. As the air fills with the soothing sounds of prayer and the scent of incense mingles with the fragrant blossoms, you’ll experience the profound serenity of a Buddhist blessing performed by a monk. This ancient ritual is believed to bring protection and good fortune, as well as to ward off evil spirits. 

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. You can revisit the Angkor monuments, wander through Siem Reap’s lively streets, or just relax by the hotel pool. Those looking for further adventure can consider an optional visit to Tonle Sap’s floating villages (subject to seasonal conditions) or embrace the flavours of Cambodia with a half-day cooking class to learn the art of traditional Khmer cuisine (available for booking locally).