Storied Shores: Hanoi, Tan Chau & Bangkok

Hanoi

Upon arrival to Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport you will be welcomed by a hostess holding a sign with your name on it. The hostess will guide you through fast-track security services with your pre-approved E-Visa before escorting you to collect your luggage and then onwards to your awaiting guide and vehicle.. Meet your private driver and English-speaking guide for an airport transfer.. Welcome to Vietnam. Please note that your travel documents include your eVisa. Please ensure you have this with you on arrival and that you bring a printed color copy in your hand, as immigration officials will need to see it when you enter the country.. Step into the theater and witness an ancient art form that traces its roots back over a thousand years to the farmers of the Red River Delta. Originally a peasant hobby, water puppetry gained royal status under the Ly and Tran dynasties. Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing performance that depicts scenes from daily life and legendary tales. The puppeteers skillfully maneuver the puppets on the water, accompanied by traditional music that adds depth and emotion to the storytelling. Delight in this unique form of entertainment that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam. At the end of the show, you will be transferred back to your accommodation.

Accommodation: Silk Path Hotel Hanoi (B) (Premium Deluxe Room)

Journey through history on a half-day tour with a private guide, discovering the iconic landmarks of Hanoi. Begin at Ba Dinh Square, where you will admire the imposing facade of the iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the revered resting site of revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh. Explore the city's traditional stilt houses, showcasing a unique architectural style, allowing for ventilation and protection from flooding in the city's historic neighborhoods. Next, admire the architecture of the One-Pillar Pagoda, originally built in 1049, and known for it's distinctive lotus-shape, the pagoda stands as a symbol of devotion and resilience. Continue your exploration at the thousand-year-old Temple of Literature, the first university in Vietnam. Originally built in 1070, it served as an exclusive institution for princes, nobility, and mandarins. Stroll through the shaded paths of Van Mieu Park, marveling at the historic architecture and discovering 82 of the original 116 engraved steles that bear the names of past graduates. Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural significance of these iconic sites, gaining a deeper understanding of Hanoi's past, before you are transferred back to your accommodation.. This evening, come hungry as you embark on a culinary journey through Hanoi's Old Quarter with your private guide. This evening, you will be treated to an array of tantalizing Vietnamese specialties that define the city's world famous food scene. Delight in the soft and savory banh cuon, followed by the iconic banh mi sandwich, renowned even in the Oxford Dictionary. Quench your thirst at a Bia Hoi on Ta Hien Street, savoring the freshness of Vietnamese beer beloved by locals and travelers alike. Next, visit a pho shop to relish the classic pho or try the unique pho tron, mixing pho noodles with chicken. Conclude your foodie evening with a stroll along Hoan Kiem Lake, enjoying a delicious ice cream before being returned to your accommodation, having experienced the vibrant flavors of Hanoi.

Accommodation: Silk Path Hotel Hanoi (B) (Premium Deluxe Room), Japan

Ho Chi Minh City

Meet your private driver and English-speaking guide for an airport transfer.. Board a flight from Hanoi with direct service to Ho Chi Minh City. Approximate flight time is 2 hours and 15 minutes.. Meet your private driver and English-speaking guide for an airport transfer.. Embark on a captivating half day, private guided tour of Ho Chi Minh City, where the architecture tells the story of its Chinese influences and colonial past. Immerse yourself in the capital of the South, starting with iconic historical sites. Marvel at the central post office, built in the 19th century and showcasing the unmistakable metal structure designed by Gustave Eiffel, creator of the famed Eiffel Tower. Admire the striking red brick facade of Notre-Dame Cathedral, also reminiscent of its Parisian counterpart of the same name. Stroll along Dong Khoi Street, a bustling thoroughfare renowned for its historical significance, vibrant shopping scene, and charming blend of colonial-era architecture and modern establishments. Conclude the tour by experiencing the grandeur of the Reunification Palace, a historic symbol of Vietnam's resiliency and a testament to its tumultuous past. Uncover the rich history and architectural splendor that define this vibrant city. Finish the day with a comfortable transfer back to your accommodation.

Accommodation: Sofitel Plaza Hotel (B) (Luxury ), Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, My Tho, Mekong River Cruise

Board a shared motorcoach for a transfer from Ho Chi Mihn City to your awaiting ship at the port in My Tho.. Welcome aboard! Take some time to get settled into your stateroom, and explore the length of your ship. This evening, you'll join fellow travelers at a Welcome Dinner as the ship cruises to Cai Be.

Accommodation: AmaDara (BLD) (Category B Stateroom), Ho Chi Minh City

Cai Be, Mekong River Cruise

Take a local boat to Cai Be, where you'll have an opportunity to visit candy and rice paper making workshops, or you may also choose to add an active walking tour to the historic Kiet House followed by a visit to candy and rice paper workshops. Later in the day, journey to Sa Dec, a sprawling town on the Mekong Delta, where French writer Marguerite Duras spent part of her youth. You will visit the colorful market, Cao Dai Temple, home to the unique religion of Caodaism in Southern Vietnam. It is a fusion of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Confucianism.

Accommodation: AmaDara (BLD) (Category B Stateroom), Cai Be

Tan Chau, Mekong River Cruise

This morning visit Tan Chau, a small town nestled along the Mekong River. Be treated to an authentic experience on a traditional “xe-loi” (trishaw) ride around the town, with stops at silk-making and rattan mat workshops. You may also choose the trishaw ride with visits to craftsmen’s workshops, followed by an active walking tour to “Evergreen Island.” Later in the day, cruise from Vietnam to the Cambodian border en route to Phnom Penh.

Accommodation: AmaDara (BLD) (Category B Stateroom), Tan Chau

Mekong River Cruise, Phnom Penh

This morning, you will visit the Royal Palace, the spectacular Silver Pagoda and National Museum, which has an outstanding collection of Khmer crafts. Alternatively, you may wish to shop for unique treasures at the bustling, yellow colored Central Market after you visit to Royal Palace. After lunch on board, the excursion takes you to Cambodia’s infamous Killing Fields and the Khmer Rouge’s grim Tuol Sleng S21 detention center (Genocide Museum). In the evening, once you've returned to the ship, enjoy Khmer folk dancing performed by local children in the Saigon Lounge.

Accommodation: AmaDara (BLD) (Category B Stateroom), Mekong River Cruise

Kampong Tralach, Mekong River Cruise

Visit Oudong, Cambodia’s former royal capital from the early 17th century until 1866. Today, Oudong is a place of pilgrimage for Cambodians. While here, be treated to a memorable Buddhist Blessing Ceremony at a monastery. You may walk around Oudong’s monastery or take an active walking tour to see panoramic views of the Oudong plain. In Kampong Tralach, you will have a truly authentic excursion – an oxcart ride through a local village. Later in the day, experience Phnom Penh via a tuk ride and be enchanted by the city's French Colonial architecture and tree-lined boulevards set amidst monumental Angkorian.

Accommodation: AmaDara (BLD) (Category B Stateroom), Kampong Tralach

Mekong River Cruise

In the morning, set sail for Oknhatey Village. Oknhatey is the “Silk Island,” located on the lush banks of the Mekong River and known for its rich tradition of silk weaving. While here, you will visit a local elementary school and observe the traditional silk weaving, an art that has been preserved for centuries.

Accommodation: AmaDara (BLD) (Category B Stateroom), Mekong River Cruise

Angkor Ban, Mekong River Cruise

Go on a walking tour of Angkor Ban, one of the few villages in Cambodia that was not destroyed under the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. Here people still live in their traditional wooden abodes and keep their old cultural traditions alive. Hundreds of wooden houses stand intact on stilts, shaded with banana trees, among the hustle and bustle of the daily agricultural on-going of the local villagers. After visiting here, the ship sets sail for Kampong Cham, where you will go on an afternoon excursion to Wat Nokor, perhaps the most treasured monument within the ancient complex of Banteay Prey Nokor. Fusing the Old-World with the new, this centuries-old temple now boasts a contemporary pagoda within its walls inside which you will delight in the colorful depictions of Buddha’s life. Cap the day off with a festive Farewell Dinner on board. Please note: Based on seasonality, the port of Angkor Ban may be inaccessible from August - September. During this time, Wat Hanchey will replace Angkor Ban as the port of call.

Accommodation: AmaDara (BLD) (Category B Stateroom), Angkor Ban

Kampong Cham, Siem Reap

Bid farewell to the staff and your fellow cruisemates as you disembark from your ship.. Join a shared transfer from Kampong Cham to Siem Reap.. Make restaurant selection effortless as you embark on a culinary odyssey by private tuk-tuk, savoring a multi-stage dinner that unfolds across three carefully selected venues in Siem Reap, each a testament to the rich and diverse and flavors of Cambodia. Your journey begins with a delectable starter at the first restaurant, where you'll relish a delightful introduction to favorite Cambodian dishes. Move on to the main course at the second restaurant, as your taste buds dance with the exquisite flavors that epitomize Siem Reap's culinary delights. Finally, conclude your epicurean adventure at the third restaurant, where a tantalizing dessert awaits, completing the sensory experience before you are transferred back to your accommodation. Each venue is a testament to the diverse and rich flavors of Cambodia, ensuring a truly memorable gastronomic tour in Siem Reap.

Accommodation: Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort (B) (Luxury Room), Kampong Cham

Siem Reap

Set out with a private guide on a full-day journey to the legendary UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat. Built in the 12th century during the Khmer Empire's zenith, Angkor Wat stands as a remarkable testament to the empire's architectural and cultural achievements, serving originally as a Hindu temple and later transitioning to a Buddhist monument. Begin by cruising through an enchanting road bordered by ancient towering trees, suddenly, an awe-inspiring stone gateway welcomes you to Angkor Thom, the grand "big city." Behold the mystical Bayon temple, an astounding 12th and 13th-century masterpiece adorned with 54 towers, each boasting four mesmerizing faces. Next, marvel at the restored Baphuon, an 11th-century temple mountain marvel. Stroll along the Terrace of the Elephants, once graced by royal audiences and ceremonies, and be captivated by the Apsara sculptures at the Terrace of the Leper King. After enjoying a complimentary lunch, brace yourself for the world-renowned Angkor Wat. Its vastness and intricate artistry will leave you breathless. Conclude the day at Ta Prohm, where the temple's ancient stones intertwine harmoniously with the surrounding tropical wilderness. Take a moment to reflect on the wonders of Angkor's historic legacy, as you enjoy a private transfer back to your accommodation.. Tonight's adventure invites you to travel by private vehicle to witness Phare Ponleu Selpak, a mesmerizing Cambodian circus that melds traditional arts with contemporary performances. Rooted just outside the city, this innovative circus showcases the resilience and creativity of Cambodian youth. With a rich tapestry of acrobatics, dance, theater, and live music, the circus narrates poignant stories of Cambodian culture, history, and daily life. Beyond its captivating shows, Phare Ponleu Selpak also acts as a non-profit organization, empowering underprivileged children by providing them with comprehensive artistic education, fostering personal growth and self-expression. Through a dynamic blend of talent and social impact, this circus stands as a vibrant symbol of artistic revival and community transformation. At the end of the show, enjoy a private transfer back to your accommodation.

Accommodation: Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort (B) (Luxury Room), Siem Reap

Siem Reap, Bangkok

Meet your private driver and English-speaking guide for an airport transfer.. Board a flight with direct service to Bangkok, Thailand. Approximate travel time is 1 hour 20 minutes.. Upon landing in Bangkok, meet your representative at the aircraft door and proceed directly through immigration via fast track, bypassing the queues entirely.. Transfer between the airport and your hotel by private vehicle.. As night falls, venture through the hidden alleys of exciting Bangkok to unearth the city's culinary wonders. Join your private guide and explore Bangkok's dazzling mazes in search of family-run restaurants. These inviting eateries have been serving top-quality local dishes for decades, with plenty boasting international recognition from the Michelin guide. Ann Guay Tiaw Kua Gai, Nai Mong Hoi Tod, Pa Tong Go Savoey are some of the most famous locales on tonight’s menu. Indulge in a variety of fruits and drinks during your tour, concluding with a refreshing cocktail served alongside a view over the Chao Phraya River.

Accommodation: Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort (B) (Junior Riverview Suite), Siem Reap

Bangkok

Explore lively markets and experience the local way of life in this engaging privately guided immersion. Imagine a trip in a paddle boat drifting along a canal as locals sell their wares from boats. Stepping off the boat, you'll enter a garden where you can try your hand at basketry and see how coconut leaves are transformed into tiny toys. Then, follow the locals to cook some Thai sweets colored by natural ingredients and made with traditional utensils. During the weekend, Tha Kha offers a lively floating market filled with fruit and vegetable vendors. It is less crowded than other floating markets, allowing more time to discover the livelihoods of the locals. At the end of the tour, enjoy the opportunity to visit a traditional wooden house and learn about the old ways of life. Indulge in a tasty traditional lunch typical of the Samut Songkhram region. In the afternoon, continue to Talaad Rom Hoob, better known as the train market in Mae Klong. This market is located along the railway tracks, creating a unique scene when the train passes by within inches of the goods and produce on sale. The train announces its arrival with great blows of the horn, leaving just seconds for the merchants to repack the goods then reinstall them just as quickly once the train has passed. Once your tour concludes, your private driver transfers you back to Bangkok.

Accommodation: Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort (B) (Junior Riverview Suite)

Bangkok

Transfer between the airport and your hotel by private vehicle.