Treasures of Vietnam & Cambodia

FLIGHT DETAILS: Sydney - Hanoi via Singapore SQ212/SQ194 | 0805-1725 (subject to change)

Upon arrival in Hanoi, we meet our local guide and transfer to a located hotel. After settling in, enjoy a welcome dinner at a traditional restaurant, sampling authentic Vietnamese cuisine and hospitality, setting the tone for our Vietnam adventure.

Daily: Dinner

After breakfast, discover Hanoi, Vietnam’s elegant capital known as the ‘Paris of the Orient’ Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Stilt House, Presidential Palace, and One Pillar Pagoda. Explore the Temple of Literature, a serene symbol of Confucian heritage. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the vibrant Old Quarter’s narrow streets and traditional shopfronts. The afternoon is free at leisure before dinner at a local restaurant, experiencing authentic Vietnamese flavours and warm hospitality.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

This morning we journey through the scenic countryside to the magnificent Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Vietnam’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Upon arrival, we board our Indochine-style cruise boat for a relaxing and unforgettable journey. We’ll cruise among limestone karsts and islets, marvelling at the bay’s tranquil beauty. Along the way, enjoy the serene atmosphere, explore fascinating formations, and soak in the panoramic views. As the sun sets, savour a freshly prepared dinner onboard before anchoring for the night surrounded by the bay’s peaceful charm.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Wake to the tranquil beauty of Lan Ha Bay as mist drifts through majestic limestone karsts. After breakfast, perhaps join a Tai Chi session on the deck before enjoying brunch onboard. We disembark and travel back to Hanoi for our flight to Danang. On arrival in Danang, we’re met by our local guide and transferred to the historic riverside town of Hoi An. Check in and relax before a delicious dinner at a local Vietnamese restaurant.

Daily: Breakfast, Brunch & Dinner

This morning we journey to the ancient My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of the Cham civilisation. Set in a lush jungle valley, the site features centuries-old temple ruins reflecting the spiritual heritage of the Cham people. After exploring the archaeological complex, we return to Hoi An for a traditional Vietnamese lunch. This afternoon, is free to explore before dinner.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture with a visit to Tra Que Vegetable Village, where we’ll learn organic farming techniques, enjoy a herbal foot bath and head massage, and join a hands-on cooking class to prepare authentic dishes. Continue to Hoi An for a mask-painting workshop with a local artisan. In the afternoon, explore heritage sites on a walking tour, including Chua Ong Pagoda, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, Tam Ky House, and the Japanese Covered Bridge. In the evening, experience Hoi An’s vibrant street food scene through its lively Old Quarter.

Daily: Breakfast & Lunch

Today we transfer to Danang for our flight to Ho Chi Minh City, where old-world charm meets modern energy. On arrival, explore the city through the lens of The Quiet American, visiting Notre Dame Cathedral, Dong Khoi Street, the Continental and Rex hotels. Reflect on Vietnam’s past at the War Remnants Museum. End with an optional cocktail at the Majestic Hotel (own expense). This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Daily: Breakfast & Dinner

Travel to Ben Tre, famed as Vietnam’s coconut capital. Visit a coconut workshop to see traditional processing, then stop at a brick kiln. Cruise the Mekong River by sampan, passing peaceful villages and fishing boats. Ride an XE LAM, the motorised rickshaw of the 1960s through local paths, visit a fruit garden for honey tea and tropical fruits. Watch pop rice and coconut candy being made, and sample fiery rice wine. Enjoy lunch with a local family before returning to Saigon. Tonight, dinner is at Au Parc restaurant or similar.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, we explore Vietnam’s wartime history with a guided visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This intricate underground network showcases the resilience and tactics of the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Walk through narrow passages, see hidden trapdoors, and view a short documentary for deeper insight. Afterward, we return to Saigon Airport for our flight to Phnom Penh. Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel for check-in before enjoying dinner together this evening.

Daily: Breakfast & Dinner

Today we explore Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s ‘Pearl of Asia’. Visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, home to gold and jewel-encrusted Buddha statues and 5,000 silver tiles, then continue to the National Museum, housing the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. Reflect on the country’s history at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Killing Fields. Enjoy lunch at Lotus Blanc, a social enterprise, before a cyclo tour of Phsar Thmey Market. This evening, dine at a local restaurant.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today we travel to Siem Reap, stopping at Spean Kampong Kdei, a Khmer-era bridge with 20 corbelled arches. On arrival, check in and refresh before an evening at the Phare Cambodian Circus. This vibrant, animal-free show blends acrobatics, theatre, music, and mime, performed by talented young artists. Rooted in Cambodian tradition, it shares cultural stories through modern expression. Food stalls are available for dinner (own expense).

Daily: Breakfast & Lunch

This morning we explore Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument and Cambodia’s national symbol, known for its grand bas-reliefs and three-tiered towers. Continue to Angkor Thom’s South Gate and the Bayon Temple, famed for its smiling stone faces and detailed carvings. Visit Ta Prohm, where jungle roots entwine ancient ruins. After a hotel break, enjoy dinner at Spoons Restaurant, a social enterprise supporting underprivileged Cambodian youth.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today we explore Kok Sangke Community for an authentic glimpse of Cambodian life. Visit a Bamboo Sticky Rice family to learn traditional cooking, then meet a local blacksmith to see hand-forged craftsmanship. Enjoy a community-cooked lunch with fresh coconut water, followed by a visit to a pagoda for a Chai Yam music ceremony and monk blessing. Return to Siem Reap to relax before an evening of Apsara dance and traditional Cambodian dinner.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before taking time to pack and reflect on our memorable journey. There’s time to unwind or explore Siem Reap at leisure before we gather for a farewell lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we transfer to Siem Reap Airport for our flight back to our homeport.

FLIGHT DETAILS: Siem Reap - Sydney SQ165/SQ231 | 1645-1150 +1 day (subject to change)

Daily: Breakfast & Lunch

Arrive home with lasting memories of cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and authentic local encounters experienced throughout this journey.