Mekong River Cruise

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January 26 – February 15, 2028

Step into the vibrant spirit of Southeast Asia on an unforgettable journey through Vietnam and Cambodia, where ancient traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage come to life. Enjoy the intimacy and insight of private touring, bringing you closer to the history of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay.

Unwind as you journey along the legendary Mekong River aboard your chartered riverboat, where ever-changing scenery, from floating villages to lush countryside, unfolds right outside your window. From immersive cultural encounters and hands-on experiences to the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor, this thoughtfully curated itinerary balances exploration, connection, and comfort, creating a journey that feels as effortless as it is unforgettable.

For those looking to continue the journey, an optional extension to Bangkok offers the opportunity to experience Thailand’s vibrant capital, adding another layer of culture, color, and discovery to an already unforgettable adventure.

Tour Highlights

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Overview

Travel Itinerary

DAY 1 January 26: Depart USA for Vietnam

Depart USA for our overnight flight.

DAY 2 January 27: Arrive in Hanoi

Welcome to Vietnam!. After arriving, the day is yours to relax and prepare for our awesome adventure.

DAY 3 January 28 Hanoi

Our day is free all day. Explore on our own in this (B)

DAY 4 January 29 Hanoi

Historic Hanoi This morning, Guided Sightseeing takes a look at the life of Ho Chi Minh, the father of modern Vietnam. First, visit the mausoleum and the humble cottage from which “Uncle Ho” ruled Vietnam until his death in 1969. Next on the agenda: One Pillar Pagoda, the Presidential Palace, and the infamous “Hanoi Hilton.” Also visit the ancient Temple of Literature, over 900 years old and Hanoi’s first university. Lunch is at Koto, a non-profit restaurant and hospitality program that teaches local street children restaurant skills for more stable employment opportunities. After lunch, enjoy an electric-cart ride through the fascinating Old Quarter, with 36 ancient streets where merchants trade as they have for centuries. An early dinner this evening is followed by a fascinating performance of Hanoi’s renowned water puppets, a traditional art form dating back to the 11th century. (B,L,D)

DAY 5 January 30 Ha Long Bay

Lush Countryside & Limestone Caves Travel from Hanoi through the fertile countryside to Hon Gai, gateway to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, the bay is dotted with more than 3,000 limestone islands carved into fanciful shapes by the action of the water. Tunnels, caves, and weirdly shaped outcroppings with imaginative names can be found on many of the small islets sprinkled across the bay. Board a Cruise Excursion to explore the caves and admire the beauty and scale of this bay before stopping at one of the many secluded islands. Enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening. (B,L,D)

DAY 6 January 31 Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

This morning, drive to Hanoi and board your flight for Ho Chi Minh City. (B)

DAY 7 February 1 Ho Chi Minh City

Motorbikes, Monuments, and Mouth-watering Cuisine Classic: Take a Walking Tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s historic landmarks, including a stop at the Rex Hotel for a refreshing drink at the rooftop bar where the U.S. Military held the infamous “Five O’clock Follies” during the war. Then visit the War Remnants Museum featuring the history and relics of the Vietnam War before spending time in bustling Ben Thanh Market. Discovery: For lunch, participate in a hands-on Vietnamese Cooking Class. Learn to prepare several local dishes and how to recreate them at home. Last, but not least, sample your delicious creations! Explore the city further during free time this afternoon. This evening, join your traveling companions for a special welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (B,L,D)

DAY 8 February 2 Cu Chi Tunnels

Secret Passageways and Underground Hideouts Classic: Drive out of the city for a Guided Visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels—an extraordinary network of tunnels more than 120 miles in length—used as a hideout and secret village by the Viet Cong. Explore these tunnels and learn what life was like living in these cramped spaces. Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening. Consider stopping for a drink at the famous rooftop bar at the Caravelle Hotel. (B)

DAY 9 February 3 Ho Chi Minh City (Embarkation)

Transfer to the port in the heart of Ho Chi Minh on the Saigon River for embarkation. Get acquainted with the ship and relax before your welcome reception and dinner this evening. Afternoon/Evening cruise to Vinh Long. (B,L,D)

DAY 10 February 4 Vinh Long—Cu Lao Gieng

Sweets, Sampans, and Sun Hats Discovery: Board a sampan this morning to visit a local workshop in Vinh Long where you will see how rice paper, rice wine, and traditional candies are made. Discovery: This afternoon, enjoy scenes of daily life on Cu Lao Gieng Island via sampan and local motor cart. Your Guided Excursion starts at a local workshop, where a skilled family hand-crafts sampan boats. Then, visit the home of a local family that makes Vietnamese conical hats, or “Non la,” from materials available to them such as palm leaves and bamboo. These iconic hats are primarily used as protection from the sun and rain, but you may also see them used as a basket to carry home goods from the market. Lastly, stop at one of Vietnam’s oldest Catholic churches. Afternoon and overnight cruise to Chau Doc. (B,L,D)

DAY 11 February 5 Long Khanh A—boarding crossing to Cambodia

Colorful markets, Charming Locals, and Cotton Weavers Discovery: In Chau Doc take a Guided Walk through the local market and absorb the atmosphere as locals are busy buying and selling fish, meat, and produce. Then embark on a River Excursion down the backwaters of the Mekong. Along the way, see traditional floating homes, speedboat merchants, religious sites, a market selling dried goods, and more. Discovery: After lunch, a sampan brings you to the village of Long Khanh A for a Cotton-Weaving Demonstration of a well-preserved artisan’s tradition. Return to the ship to set sail for the Cambodian border. On board, we cross the border at Vinh Xuong International Land and River Border Gate in Vietnam and Kaam Samnor in Cambodia. Evening/overnight cruise to Phnom Penh. (B,L,D)

DAY 12 February 6 Phnom Penh

The Royal Treatment Classic: Take a City Tour of this Cambodian capital by private cyclo to visit the Royal Palace with the spectacular Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum featuring an outstanding display of Khmer artifacts. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy the city at your leisure. Just before dinner, children from a local orphanage will perform a show featuring local song and dance. (B,L,D)

DAY 13 February 7 Phnom Penh

A Dark History or Market Dynamics Classic: This morning, a Guided Visit of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and one of the Killing Fields offers a glimpse into the atrocities inflicted on the Cambodian people by the Khmer Rouge regime. OR: Discovery: Visit the lively Central Market by tuk-tuk to see its unique Art Deco design. After lunch, depart Phnom Penh and enjoy some time at leisure on the ship. Afternoon/evening cruise to Wat Hanchey. (B,L,D)

DAY 14 February 8 Wat Hanchey-Angkor Ban

Water Blessings and Back-to-School Adventures Discovery: Visit Wat Hanchey, a hilltop temple dating back to the 8th century. Climb or be driven to the top where you will enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area and partake in a traditional water blessing given by local monks. Discovery: After lunch, enjoy a Walking Tour through the rural village of Angkor Ban. Here, you will visit a traditional Khmer house and interact with children at a local school. (B,L,D) Evening/overnight cruise to Konpong Louang.

DAY 15 February 9 Konpong Louang—Kampong Tralach

Calm in the Cambodian Countryside Discovery: Start your Guided Sightseeing at the silversmith village in Konpong Louang. Here, see talented craftsmen use age-old techniques to turn pure silver into works of art. In Kampong Tralach board an ox cart for a ride through the beautiful Cambodian countryside. Along the way, stop to meet a local farmer and learn about his daily life. This afternoon, enjoy scenic cruising on the Tonle River. Evening cruise to Phnom Penh. (B,L,D)

DAY 16 February 10 Phnom Penh (Disembark) - Siem Reap

A Pilgrimage of Inspirational Beauty Fly to Siem Reap, home to the Temples of Angkor, considered by many to be the most spectacular architectural ruins on Earth! Classic: After lunch, begin your Sightseeing Tour by tuk-tuk to explore the temples. Start at the best preserved and most famous of all the temples: Angkor Wat. Featuring five trademark towers, it is the symbol of Cambodia. Then, visit Angkor Thom, where you will explore Bayon Temple with its 200 striking faces carved in 54 towers and impressive bas-relief sculptures. The evening is yours to explore charming Siem Reap, stay to witness the sunset at Angkor Wat (B,L)

DAY 17 February 11 Siem Reap

Roots Carved in Stone and Celebrated in Dance Classic: Continue your Guided Sightseeing of the Angkor Temples at Ta Prohm. Tree roots cover the ruin walls, allowing you to experience the temple with the same wonder as early explorers. Then visit Banteay Srei, a unique temple built on a small scale from red sandstone, which can be carved like wood. En route stop at a local village famous for making Khmer noodles by hand. Be sure to sample some of the freshly prepared noodles! Spend the afternoon at your leisure. Discover: This evening, enjoy dinner and a private Apsara Dance Performance brings ancient Khmer culture to life through music, song, and dance. (B,D)

DAY 18 February 12 Siem Reap: Return home or Bangkok

Either your vacation ends today and you transfer to the airport for the return flight back to USA (B) OR Bangkok Bound You may opt to continue your vacation to Thailand with a flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. (B)

DAY 19 February 13 Bangkok

Klongs, Canals, and Timeless Temples This morning, your Guided Sightseeing begins with a boat ride on the klongs, Bangkok’s famous canals. Stop at the stunning Grand Palace featuring the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Also, Visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. It houses more than 1,000 Buddha images, including the 49-foot-high and 151-foot-long massive Reclining Buddha. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B,L)

DAY 20 February 14 Bangkok

Bold Colors of the City Enjoy a full day at your leisure. (B)

DAY 21 February 15 Depart and return home

Our vacation ends with breakfast this morning. We will transfer to the airport and return home with new friends and wonderful memories. (B)

Inclusions

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Mekong River Cruise

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