Far away from better-known vacations spots, we traced the untapped and soulful spots of Vietnam and Cambodia. These two Southeast Asian gems truly represent the continent’s picturesque landscapes, deep spirituality and unique histories. In Vietnam, discover the city on a cycle tour through the alleys of Ho Chi Minh City, known for its French colonial architecture, enjoy a luxurious two-night cruise and set out on a gastronomy tour with a local food connoisseur. Travel back in history when you visit Angkor Wat, Cambodia's crown jewel of the mighty Khmer empire.
We set forth to visit the famous Ho Chi Minh mausoleum to see the preserved remains of the revered, “Uncle Ho”, the lotus shaped One Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature and the serene Museum of Ethnology. A cycle tour through the Old Quarter takes us to the water puppet theatre to watch a true northern Vietnamese art form. The city is rich in gastronomy and a half day street food tour, with local food connoisseur, Daniel Hoyer, provides an opportunity to savor some tasty Hanoian specialties.
We explore the Halong Bay on a luxurious two-night cruise, taking a short break at the celebrated Dai Viet Center. The mysterious Tien Ong cave’s interior caverns contain a fascinating array of stalactites and stalagmites that we’re quick to capture on camera. A tour to the Cua Van fishing village includes a cooking class on some of the fresh catch.
Out exploring the countryside on a cycle tour, we pedal along the Thu Bon River, through ThuanTinh Ecological village and along the quiet inland trails. As we ride past the water-coconut palm trees, fishing farms and rice paddies, our guide shows us the intricacies of life in the Cam Thanh and TraQue villages.
On a day long city tour of Saigon, we behold the city’s splendid, historic landmarks including the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires based on the original construction from Paris. After a swift bike ride, we are at the CaiBe floating market. The setting is bright and beautiful, as we eat a delicious meal at an ancient Mandarin house.
In Seam Reap, we visit the religious monument of Angkor Wat with a renowned Khmer scholar, followed by a visit to Artisans d’Angkor. The ancient temples and famed artistry gives us much to ruminate on as we journey back to civilization.
autumn (Sept–Dec) and spring (March and April) Ideal length: 10- 12 nights
10 days
Family vacations
Wildlife, Beaches & Relaxation, Magnificent Temples of Angkor, cruise amongst hundreds of karst peaks at the stunning Halong Bay, Charming splendour of the old Chinese port at Hoi An,
USD 1172 onwards
