Compare The Heart of Cambodia & Vietnam (Northbound) by Avalon Waterways vs Vietnam and Cambodia Signature by Odynovo
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| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 18 days | 14 days |
| Price From | $ 7,499 | $ 2,236 |
| Price Per Day | $ 417 | $ 160 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | River cruise | Private guided tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Premium |
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| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
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| Flights & Transport | No | Internal airfare and ground transport included |
| Activities |
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| Meals Included | N/A |
13 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 1 Dinner |
| Description | This magical Southeast Asia river cruise along the Mekong River will take you through Vietnam and Cambodia, showing you the culture and local traditions of each country and the must-see sites along the way.Your adventure begins in bustling Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, where you’ll get a taste of the culture first-hand with a Vietnamese cooking class and go on a fascinating excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extraordinary network of tunnels used extensively during the war. Immerse yourself in the everyday life of locals with a stroll through a busy market, and visits to a family’s home for a cotton-weaving demonstration and a local workshop to see how rice wine and traditional candies are made. Continue your journey into Cambodia where you’ll visit the famous sites, such as the temple of Wat Hanchey, providing spectacular views, and take part in a traditional water blessing with local monks. Enjoy an ox-cart ride around the Cambodian countryside and meet a local farmer to learn about his daily life. Siem Reap offers the magnificent Temples of Angkor. These ancient ruins are a display of architectural complexity and grandeur unlike anything else in the world. See the most famous temples here, such as Angkor Wat, dedicated to the Hindu god, Vishnu; and the Bayon temple, which features some 200 mysterious faces carved in its many towers. Enjoy an inspiring Aspara dance performance and other treasures of the city.Fly to Hanoi and explore the famous sites, such as the Old Quarter, where peddlers have traded goods for centuries on its 36 ancient streets. Next, a remarkable 2-night cruise along Ha Long Bay will show you its beautiful Limestone Islands. You’ll visit the Cua Van Floating Village, spectacular caves, and even go for a swim at Ti Top Island. The perfect ending to an unforgettable Southeast Asia river cruise vacation! |
The best of Vietnam and Cambodia tour is one of the best sellers. Embark on this 14-day journey to explore the essence of these two countries. You will ride on a rickshaw waving around the Old Quarter of Hanoi, take in the stunning natural wonder of Halong Bay, soak up the relaxed atmosphere of ancient Hoi An, explore Vietnamese history in Hue, and observe locals' daily life of the Mekong Delta. While in Siem Reap, Cambodia, you will explore the vast religious complex of Angkor temples. |
Day 1: HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM
Historic Ho Chi Minh
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, still known as Saigon to many. Hotel rooms are available for mid-afternoon check-in.
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Day 2: HO CHI MINH CITY
Motorbikes, Monuments, and Mouthwatering 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 and 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.
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 3: HO CHI MINH CITY. EXCURSION TO 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.Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening. Consider stopping for a drink at the famous rooftop bar at the Caravelle Hotel.
(Breakfast)
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Day 4: HO CHI MINH CITY (EMBARKATION)
Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding
Transfer to the port on the Saigon River for embarkation. Get acquainted with the ship and relax before your welcome reception this evening.
AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO VINH LONG
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 5: 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 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/EVENING CRUISE TO CHAU DOC
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 6: CHAU DOC–LONG KHANH A–BORDER CROSSING, 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, take a sampan Ride to the village of Long Khanh A for a Cotton-Weaving Demonstration in this well-preserved artisan’s tradition.Return to the ship and head for the Cambodian border.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO PHNOM PENH(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 7: PHNOM PENH
The Royal Treatment
CLASSIC Take a City Tour 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.
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 8: PHNOM PENH
A Dark History and Bright Markets
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
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 9: 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.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO KONPONG LOUANG
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 10: 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
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 11: PHNOM PENH (DISEMBARKATION)–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, or consider a Guided Optional Excursion to the Cambodian circus
(Breakfast,Lunch)
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Day 12: 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.Spend the afternoon at your leisure. You may choose a Guided Optional Excursion to further explore Siem Reap or the temple complex by tuk-tuk.
DISCOVERY This evening, a private Apsara Dance Performance brings ancient Khmer culture to life through music, song, and dance.(Breakfast,Dinner)
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Day 13: SIEM REAP–HANOI
Hanoi Bound
Today, transfer to the airport and fly to Hanoi. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for the night.
(Breakfast)
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Day 14: HANOI
Historic Hanoi and Water Puppets
CLASSIC First, join a Guided Visit of the mausoleum and the humble cottage from which “Uncle Ho” ruled Vietnam until his death in 1969. Next, see iconic sites, including One Pillar Pagoda, the Presidential Palace, and the infamous “Hanoi Hilton.” Lastly, visit the 900-year-old Temple of Literature, Hanoi’s first university.Enjoy lunch at Koto, a non-profit restaurant and hospitality program that teaches local children restaurant skills for stable employment opportunities.
CLASSIC After lunch, enjoy an Electric-Ride through the fascinating Old Quarter—with its 36 ancient streets where merchants trade as they have for centuries.
DISCOVERY An early dinner this evening is followed by a fascinating Live Performance of Hanoi’s renowned water puppets, a traditional 11th-century art form.(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 15: HANOI–HA LONG BAY
Island Shapes and a Floating Village
Travel from Hanoi through the fertile countryside to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The bay is dotted with more than 3,000 limestone islands carved into fanciful shapes. Board the luxurious Paradise Elegance for a 2-Night Cruise on the bay.
DISCOVERY Visit the Cua Van Floating Village, home to more than 700 people, by bamboo raft, OR:
ACTIVE Take a Kayak Ride to visit Cua Van Village.Enjoy scenic sailing for the remainder of the day before anchoring for the night.
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 16: HA LONG BAY
Caves, Kayaks, and Scenic Climbs
DISCOVERY Visit Ti Top Island, for a Guided Excursion to take a swim, or climb 400 steps to the top for stunning views. You can also visit Luon Cave by boat, and explore Dark & Bright Cave by bamboo raft, OR: ACTIVE Explore Luon Cave and Dark & Bright Cave by Kayak Ride.After a day of exploring, consider a spa treatment or simply relax for happy hour prior to dinner!
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 17: HA LONG BAY–HANOI
Surprising and Amazing Beauty
This morning, relax onboard your ship, or visit Sung Sot Cave, considered one of the most beautiful in the area with its magnificent formations. Afterwards, return to Hanoi and check in to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to spend at your leisure.
(Breakfast)
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Day 18: HANOI
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
(Breakfast)
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Day 1: Arrival - Hanoi
Overnight: Hanoi
Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, you will be greeted by a local guide then driven to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure or go out and explore the city.
Day 2: Hanoi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Hanoi
This morning will commence with the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, followed by a visit to Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House. Later, continue your tour to some significant sites, including One Pillar Pagoda, Hoa Lo Prison, and Temple of Literature.
In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Ethnology and then experience a rickshaw trip around the Old Quarter. The last stop is Hoan Kiem Lake. Passing through the wooden red-painted bridge, you will reach Ngoc Son Temple. After the tour, feast your eyes on a local water puppet show.
Day 3: Hanoi - Halong Bay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: On Board
Today you will head to Halong Bay for a 2-day cruise trip. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is famous for its original limestone karst geomorphology features. You will sail through some islets and a fishing village, and then anchor the vessels at the Frog Pond area. The ship offers a variety of optional activities like kayaking, swimming, diving to explore this beautiful area.
Day 4: Halong Bay - Hanoi - Da Nang - Hoi An
Meals: Light Breakfast, Brunch
Overnight: Hoi An
If you wake up early, why not try an organized Tai Chi class among the peaceful surroundings. Before disembarking, you may have a chance to visit Sung Sot Cave, one of the most spectacular and biggest caves. Walking around 600 steps up to the cave, you will reach it and be amazed by the beauty inside.
After the cruise, meet your guide and driver who will accompany you to Hanoi airport for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, be transferred to your hotel in Hoi An and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 5: Hoi An
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Hoi An
In the morning, visit the Japanese Bridge, the famous Chinese Temple, and the former Vietnamese Merchant's House. Later, head to the home of an artisan in the old street, where you will have a chance to make a traditional lantern by hand and keep it as a souvenir.
Day 6: Hoi An - Da Nang - Hue
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Hue
Move on to Hue by land, via Da Nang. Along the way, stop to visit Cham Museum, Non-Nuoc Beach, Marble Mountain, and take in a breathtaking panoramic view of the city of Da Nang at Hai Van Pass. Arrive in Hue late afternoon, check into your hotel and relax.
Day 7: Hue
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Hue
This morning you will visit the majestic Tomb of King Minh Mang, the final resting place of one of the Nguyen Dynasty's staunchest Confucians. Then, ride a royal dragon boat along the Perfume River to the sacred Thien Mu Pagoda - the symbol of Hue. Continue to the Imperial Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City for their historic monuments. At the end of the tour, you will have a chance to take a stroll down the traditional Dong Ba Market to experience the local lifestyle.
Day 8: Hue - Ho Chi Minh City
Meal: Breakfast
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
After breakfast, you will be escorted to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your local guide and escorted to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day will be free for you to relax.
Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
Go for exploration at the underground Cu Chi Tunnels and then return to the downtown to visit the Ben Thanh Market, War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace. Step into the Old Saigon Post Office, which is one of Vietnam's most beautiful examples of French colonial architecture. Lastly, have a stroll at Dong Khoi Street.
Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh City
A 2-hour drive will take you to Ben Tre, one of the popular Mekong Delta hubs. Here, you will navigate a maze of narrow canals to witness life around the water, walk in the village to see local houses, and enjoy a homemade lunch in the home of the residents.
Return to Ho Chi Minh City for the night after the tour.
Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City - Siem Reap
Meal: Breakfast
Overnight: Siem Reap
Say goodbye to Vietnam and fly onward to Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Upon arrival, take a private transfer to your downtown hotel for a rest.
Day 12: Siem Reap
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight Siem Reap
Today, you will be delighted by the time-honored Angkor temples. Passing through the bridge guarded by two rows of mythical statues, you will enter the South Gate of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire built in the 13th century with multiple temples. See the most notable Bayon Temple and Elephant Terrace in the center of Angkor Thom.
Following lunch at a local restaurant, you will visit the UNESCO-listed Angkor Wat. This well-preserved temple complex is the largest religious monument in the world, spanning 402 acres. Before returning to the hotel, climb up to Bakheng Hill or the less-crowded Pre Rup Temple for the stunning sunset.
Day 13: Siem Reap
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Siem Reap
Aside from Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat, there are many other temples worth visiting. You will pass through some local villages to visit red-sandstone Banteay Srei. Listen to your guide telling fairy stories in relief above each lintel while looking for beautiful angles to
practice your photography skills.
In the afternoon, go back to explore Ta Prohm Temple, where crumbling temples and majestic trees are intertwined, like scenes from the film Tomb Raider. Not far away is Ta Keo Temple, possibly the first to be built entirely out of sandstone by the Khmer Empire.
Day 14: Siem Reap - Departure
Meal: Breakfast
Your vacation to Vietnam and Cambodia comes to an end today. At the appointed time, a private transfer takes you to the airport. Bid farewell to your guide and board your homebound flight with wonderful memories.
