Vietnam & Cambodia Escorted Tour

Flight Details: Brisbane/Adelaide - Sydney (flight times to be advised)

We fly from our Homeport to Sydney. On arrival we are transferred to our hotel for our overnight stay. Dinner is at own arrangements.

Overnight Sydney: Sydney Airport Hotel

Flight Details: SQ212 Sydney - Singapore 0755/1415 (flight times subject to change)

Flight Details: SQ194 Singapore - Hanoi 1505/1735 (flight times subject to change)

Today we fly from Sydney to Hanoi (via Singapore). We arrive late this afternoon and transfer to our hotel for check in and enjoy dinner before a good nights rest.

Overnight Hanoi: Foreign Relations Hotel

Dinner

Today we explore Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage through its Confucian, Taoist, and Buddhist landmarks with a half day city tour. We begin at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university founded in 1070, where we can explore serene courtyards and ancient steles dedicated to Confucian scholars and education. We then continue to the Quan Thanh Temple, a Taoist temple from the 11th century, known for its intricate carvings and bronze statue of Tran Vo, the God of the North, reflecting Taoist traditions. Finally, we visit the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, beautifully situated on a small island in West Lake, offering a tranquil end to our day with its towering structure. We enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, before making our way to the bustling streets of the Old Quarter aboard a traditional Cyclo, marvelling at the bustling markets and historic architecture. Concluding our days tour we visit Ngoc Son Temple and watch an enchanting water puppet show, giving us the true essence of Vietnamese art and tradition. Tonight we enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight Hanoi: Foreign Relations Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Enjoy a majestic voyage to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, aboard the Emeraude Classic Cruise, ensuring a day filled with breathtaking scenery and culinary delights. Our journey begins with a transfer to Halong Bay, a spectacle of nature’s beauty, renowned for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped by rainforests. Upon boarding, we are greeted with a welcome drink, marking the start of our unforgettable cruise. As we set sail, a buffet lunch at the onboard restaurant showcases local flavours against the backdrop of the bay’s iconic karst landscapes. In the afternoon, Ti Top Island awaits, offering a choice between a refreshing swim or a hike up the mountain for a panoramic vista of Halong Bay. The day doesn’t end there; enjoy French-style crêpes on the sundeck, partake in kayaking, or engage in various onboard activities, all while basking in the bay’s beauty. The evening brings canapés on the sundeck and a sumptuous dinner at the restaurant, followed by optional squid fishing for those intrigued by the nocturnal marine life.

Overnight Halong Bay: Emeraude Classic Cruise - Halong Bay

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Awaken to the serenity of Halong Bay, starting our morning with an invigorating yoga session as the sun rises. The day begins with the ship’s tranquil ambience, offering tea, coffee, and cakes, setting the stage for a morning yoga class on the deck, surrounded by the calm waters and limestone cliffs. Our exploration leads us to Sung Sot Cave, a grand cavern within the bay, where a guided tour reveals the natural splendour and geological wonders that have formed over millennia. As the cruise makes its way back, enjoy a leisurely brunch in the restaurant, providing one last opportunity to take in the iconic sights of Halong Bay. The scenic return journey is the perfect conclusion to our exploration.We arrive at Hanoi Airport and check-in for our flight to Danang.

Flight Details: Hanoi - Danang (flights to be advised)

On arrival into Danang we meet our local Guide and transfer to Hoi to check-in to the hotel before gathering for dinner.

Overnight Hoi An: Emm Hoi An Hotel

Breakfast & Dinner

Journey through time with a visit to My Son, the ancient capital of the Cham civilization, followed by a captivating walking tour of Hoi An, showcasing its most iconic sights and rich history. We begin our exploration with a guided visit to My Son, where the legacy of the Cham rulers from the 2nd to the 13th century unfolds among the ruins of temples and historical structures. Return to Hoi An for a Vietnamese lunch, then embark on a walking tour that takes us from the 17th century Chua Ong Pagoda to the Chinese Jinshang Temple at Phuc Kien Assembly Hall. Wander through the 200-year-old Tam Ky House and conclude our tour with a stroll over the Japanese Covered Bridge, the emblem of Hoi An’s enduring charm.

Overnight Hoi An: Emm Hoi An Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Dive into the heart of Vietnamese culture today with a day spent in the verdant Tra Que Vegetable Village, blending hands-on farming, culinary arts, and traditional handicrafts into an unforgettable experience. Venture into Tra Que, a sanctuary of organic vegetable farming, to witness sustainable agricultural practices and harvest fresh ingredients vital to Vietnamese cuisine. Relish a moment of tranquillity with a herbal foot bath and head massage amidst the garden’s aromatic embrace. The journey into local gastronomy unfolds in a cooking class led by a skilled chef, where we’ll craft and savour traditional dishes, embodying the essence of Vietnam’s culinary heritage. The adventure is enriched with a mask-painting workshop, a nod to the country’s rich theatrical traditions, under the guidance of a local artisan. This tour offers a unique blend of nature, flavour, and creativity, showcasing the best of Tra Que and Vietnamese culture.

OPTIONAL EVENING TOUR - HOI AN STREET EATS PRIVATE TOUR - Cost $70.00 per person. Dive into the heart of Hoi An’s vibrant street food culture, where authentic Vietnamese cuisine tells the story of its rich heritage, offering a true taste of local life beyond the usual tourist spots.“To fully experience a culture, one must indulge in its cuisine.” This is the philosophy behind the Hoi An Street Eat Tour, perfect for those keen to explore genuine local flavours and traditions. Navigate the narrow alleys of the Old Quarter, settle by a roadside for a traditional tea, and immerse ourselves in the bustling ambience of Hoi An. This tour provides a unique opportunity to try a variety of Vietnamese dishes just as the locals do, enriching our understanding of Vietnam’s culinary and cultural landscape. Enjoy specialities such as Banh Bao Vac (White Rose Dumplings), Banh Mi, and Cao Lau, complemented by the iconic Cafe Sua Da. (Tour runs 5.30pm - 8.30pm)

Overnight Hoi An: Emm Hoi An Hotel

Breakfast & Lunch

Today we depart from Danang for our flight into Ho Chi Minh City.

Flight Details: Danang - Ho Chi Minh (flights to be advised)

Discover Saigon through the eyes of Graham Greene’s “The Quiet American,” capturing the essence of historical and cultural landmarks. Embark on a journey that takes us from the enchanting Notre Dame Cathedral, described by Greene as “...the hideous pink cathedral...,” down the vibrant Dong Khoi Street, previously known as Rue Catinat. Explore the historical Continental Hotel, the site of the last helicopter evacuation, and the luxurious Rex Hotel. Delve deeper into the city’s history with a visit to the War Remnants Museum, where we can reflect on the poignant memories of the Vietnam War. We conclude our tour with a signature cocktail at the Majestic Hotel, a favourite spot of British journalist Thomas Fowler, immersing in the rich tapestry of Saigon’s past and present. Tonight we enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight Ho Chi Minh: Central Palace

Breakfast & Dinner

Journey into the heart of the Mekong Delta on the Cai Be Princess, experiencing the dynamic waterways and the lush landscapes of this fertile region. From the moment we board the Cai Be Princess in Saigon, we’re transported into the tranquillity of the Mekong Delta. Glide past vibrant floating markets, under the shadow of dense greenery, witnessing the bustling life on the river. Visit traditional craft workshops along the riverbanks and historic houses, gaining insights into the local way of life. A highlight of the cruise is a delightful lunch at the colonial-style Le Longanier Restaurant, offering a serene dining experience by the water. This journey beautifully marries cultural discovery with moments of relaxation, presenting an authentic glimpse into the Delta’s heart.

OPTIONAL DINNER TOUR - SAIGON RIVER DINNER CRUISE - COST $85.00 PER PERSON

Experience the enchantment of Ho Chi Minh City at night with a dinner cruise along the Saigon River, a magical evening that combines scenic river views with exquisite dining. As we glide along the Saigon River, take in the city’s illuminated skyline from the unique vantage point of our river cruise boat. The gentle movement of the water and the glittering lights of Ho Chi Minh City create a captivating backdrop for our evening. Enjoy a gourmet dinner on board, featuring a selection of Vietnamese and international dishes prepared to perfection. This cruise is the ideal way to relax and see the city from a different perspective, making it a perfect evening out for couples, families, and friends.

Overnight Ho Chi Minh: Central Palace

Breakfast & Lunch

Today we explore Vietnam’s wartime history with a profound visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network that played a crucial role during the War, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity and resilience of the Viet Cong. The journey from Ho Chi Minh City to the Cu Chi district provides a scenic transition from urban sprawl to countryside tranquillity. At the tunnels, experience the narrow passageways first-hand and learn about the resourceful living conditions, traps, and warfare strategies that defined guerrilla tactics. A documentary provides context to the immense challenges faced during the conflict, making this visit an essential part of understanding Vietnam’s contemporary history. After exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels, via Moc Bai, where we cross the border with Cambodia. Meet our local guide and driver, then travel to Phnom Penh. Upon arrival we check-in at our hotel, before we gather again for dinner tonight in the hotel.

Overnight Phnom Penh: G Mekong Hotel

Breakfast & Dinner

Explore the rich heritage of capital city Phnom Penh. Considered the ‘Pearl of Asia,’ Phnom Penh has an exotic postcolonial culture. Situated on the banks of the Ton Le Sap and Mekong Rivers, Phnom Penh was largely constructed in the 1920s and boasts some of Asia’s best-preserved Art Deco architecture. Start the day at the majestic Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda complex. Admire the elaborately constructed palace buildings, some of the 5,000 silver floor tiles that give the Silver Pagoda its name, as well as spectacular gold and bejeweled Buddha statues that are considered national treasures. Walk to the nearby National Museum, a beautiful sandstone museum that showcases the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. Next we visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former secondary school that was converted by Khmer Rouge into one of the regime’s largest detention and torture centers, Security Prison 21. An important educational site, the museum chronicles the Cambodian genocide and documents the atrocities that occurred within its walls. We enjoy lunch at “Lotus Blanc Restaurant”, a real restaurant which allows the young people from the Hotel School to train in real conditions. You will appreciate the quality of the service and the kindness of these young people, who you will find again a few months later in the best establishments in Cambodia. We visit Choeung Ek, one of the mass grave sites of the Killing Fields, where the Khmer Rouge executed over a million men, women, and children between the years 1975 and 1979. Today, Choeung Ek is a memorial with a Buddhist stupa filled with skulls and bones to honour the victims. We end our day by Cyclo on a lighter note at Phsar Thmey, Phnom Penh’s central market and an Art Deco landmark. Following our guide through the labyrinth of stalls, we learn more about the everyday life of modern Cambodians. NOTE: the lunch venue today is subject to availability, local restaurant will be replaced if this restaurant is closed/fully booked. In the evening, we enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight Phnom Penh: G Mekong Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast and checkout, we transfer to Siem Reap by private vehicle with stops at Spean Kampong Kdei for a quick visit, Spean Praptos or Spean Kampong Kdei is a Khmer-era bridge that straddles a small river at Kampong Kdei, a small town about sixty kilometers southeast of the Angkor Archaeological zone. The bridge is built of laterite and runs 87 meters east-west, comprising 20 sets of corbelled arches. We continue into Siem Reap for check-in and refresh before we get a taste of both contemporary and historic Cambodia with an evening under the big top in downtown Siem Reap. Phare Cambodian Circus, an NGO that supports disadvantaged Khmer youth with art and performance training, is a show without animals that showcases a talented cast accomplished in acrobatics, contortion, aerial ballet, tightrope walking, juggling, mime, drama, and comedy. Cambodia has a long history of circus tradition, dating back as far as the 6th century from temple carvings depicting circus performances for ceremonies and festivals. While the show is fully modern, it draws on Cambodian tradition, folk stories, and folk music. Food stalls available for purchases at the Circus venue.

Overnight Siem Reap: Prince d’Angkor Hotel

Breakfast & Lunch

Start our day with a visit at the magnificent Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument and best-preserved temple in the complex. This visually spectacular massive three-tired pyramid has become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its flag. Admire the grandeur of its architecture and its extensive decoration of bas-relief friezes. Take a short drive to South Gate of Angkor Thom, where statues of the gods of good and evil line the entrance. Our next stop is Bayon, a richly decorated temple. Its most distinctive feature is the hundreds of smiling faces that grace the towers. Impressive bas-reliefs tell stories of daily life and of the great battles that were fought between the Khmers and ancient Thais. We spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Ta Prohm, one of Cambodia’s most beloved temples. Unusually, Ta Prohm is in much the same condition in which it was found. The combination of large trees growing out of the ruins and the surrounding jungle give the temple a truly magical feel. We return to the hotel to refresh before enjoying dinner at a social enterprise restaurant SPOONS. A Cambodia Organization enables underprivileged Cambodian young adults to become self supporting through education, training, and employment opportunities.

NOTE: Alternative restaurant will be replaced if Spoons Restaurant is not available.

Overnight Siem Reap: Prince d’Angkor Hotel

Today we’ll get a glimpse of local life as we embark on a journey to Kok Sangke Community. We’ll interact with locals, learn about their daily lives, and gain a deeper understanding of their traditions and livelihoods. We’ll start with a visit to the Bamboo Sticky Rice Family. We’ll learn about the traditional process of making this delicious local delicacy. Continuing the exploration, we’ll meet a Blacksmith family where we’ll gain insights into the ancient art of blacksmithing and witness skilled craftsmen at work, shaping metal into intricate objects. We’ll pause for lunch, which is a leisurely walk to the community lunch venue where we’ll enjoy a delicious meal prepared by the locals. Savour the flavours of the region while sipping on fresh coconut water. Next, we’ll depart for a Pagoda, a place of spiritual significance. Upon arrival, we’ll be greeted by the enchanting Chai Yam Music Band who will enchant with their welcome ceremony. Here, we will receive a special blessing from a monk, a meaningful and introspective experience that brings a sense of tranquillity and spiritual connection. After the trip, we return to our hotel where there’ll be time to relax before enjoy an evening filled with traditional Aspara dance. The show brings ancient Khmer culture to life while we enjoy a dinner of traditional Cambodian cuisine.

Overnight Siem Reap: Prince d’Angkor Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Our day allows us to enjoy breakfast and with some free time to relax and prepare for departure. We will gather for lunch at a local restaurant before our transfer to Siem Reap Airport for our flight home.

Flight Details: SQ165 Siem Reap- Singapore 1610/1925 (flight times subject to change)

Flight Details: Singapore - Brisbane or Adelaide (flight details to be advised)

We arrive back into Australia after a wonderful adventure through Vietnam and Cambodia with Trade Travel.