Treasures of Vietnam with Siem Reap – Angkor Wat – 18Days

Your tour starts with a visit to the General Post Office and the Notre Dame Cathedral, both excellent examples of French colonial architecture. Next, head to the Reunification Palace, formerly known as the Presidential Palace, which was the site of the official surrender of South Vietnam on April 30, 1975. While entry is not included, you'll have the chance to take photographs of the exterior. Following this, visit the War Remnants Museum. Opened in September 1975, the museum features old military equipment and various artifacts from the Vietnam War, including large displays such as an F5A fighter jet and a UH1-Huey helicopter.

Experience the city from a traditional cyclo, a three-wheeled bicycle with a front carriage, as the driver pedals you through Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the city without the barrier of a car window or the noise of an engine. Travel through Tao Dan Park to the Tan Dinh wet market, which functions as both a produce market and a community hub where locals mingle and chat as they shop. The final stop is the renowned Ben Thanh Market, where you can hone your bargaining skills while shopping for souvenirs, clothing, and other items. The market has a rich history; it was originally located near the Ben Nghe River and the old Gia Dinh fort, was destroyed in 1859 during the French invasion of Saigon, and was later rebuilt and relocated to its current site in 1899.

At the end of your tour, you are welcome to continue exploring on your own, or your guide can help you return to your hotel via our van.

The next two days of your Vietnam itinerary are focused on exploring the Mekong River and its expansive delta. Around 7:30 AM, you'll board a minibus heading towards Cai Be. From there, you'll transfer to a boat for a small-group cruise through the Mekong Delta. As you navigate the waters of Cai Be, you'll encounter vibrant floating markets where vendors display their goods on boats, hanging produce from long poles.

Experience local life as you travel through a network of canals, passing by small villages, rice fields, and local businesses. You'll visit one of the Mekong’s islands, Vinh Long Island, and enjoy a scenic boat ride lasting about 3 hours to Can Tho, where you'll arrive in time for sunset. You'll then be taken to a modest yet charming hotel for the night. Please note that during the dry season, this segment of the trip may be done by minibus instead, due to lower water levels.

On the fourth day of your Vietnam holiday, you'll depart from your hotel at 7:30 AM. A local boat will take you to Cai Rang, the largest and most bustling floating market in the Mekong Delta. To get an up-close view of the market's vibrant activity, you'll transfer to a bamboo rowboat. As you navigate through the lively scene, you won't need to row yourself, giving you ample time to browse and purchase items from the vendors.

By the end of this Mekong Delta tour, you'll gain a good understanding of life along this vital river. Afterward, you'll return to Ho Chi Minh City in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, arriving around 3-4 PM.

This evening marks your final night in Ho Chi Minh City before your journey continues to Cambodia.

This morning, we bid farewell to Vietnam and board a short flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. After clearing customs and immigration, we'll meet our local guide and make our way to the town for check-in and a chance to refresh before our afternoon exploration begins.

Hop into a private remork (tuk-tuk) for a brief 15-minute ride to the South Gate, where you'll stroll along the ancient city walls with your guide, pausing to photograph the impressive demons that line the causeway. You'll then visit the hidden Prasat Chrung temple for about an hour before heading to the 12th-century Bayon Temple, known for its 51 stone towers adorned with serene, smiling faces of a bodhisattva.

Your guide will also take you to the Terrace of the Elephants, the Royal Palace, and the Terrace of the Leper King, where you can explore for up to two hours while learning intriguing stories about the Khmer kings who once ruled this ancient city.

After your private tour, you'll have the evening free to enjoy as you wish. Relax by the outdoor pool during happy hour or retreat to your air-conditioned room to savor dinner and drinks from room service.

Wake up early and leave your hotel about 30 minutes before sunrise, traveling by remork to the jungle-enshrouded Ta Prohm temple. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its state of preservation as it was first discovered in the 19th century, with the temples left largely as they were found.

Return to your hotel for breakfast, then proceed to visit the iconic Angkor Wat, another UNESCO World Heritage site and the most well-preserved temple within the Angkor Archaeological Park. Enjoy a private guided tour of this impressive 12th-century temple, which lasts several hours. Explore its many surviving stone temples that once stood amidst wooden palaces, public structures, and residences that have since vanished.

After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to Banteay Srei, a 10th-century temple located 19 miles (32 km) from Siem Reap. Known as the ‘Citadel of Women’ for its intricate sandstone carvings, this small UNESCO-listed temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is a masterpiece of Angkorian art.

Following your 1.5-hour private tour, you’ll have some free time to explore and enjoy your provided lunch. As you return to Siem Reap, you may have the chance to witness the sunset casting a golden hue over the temples of Pre Rup.

After breakfast, embark on a 30-minute drive by remork to the outskirts of Siem Reap for a 15-minute ox-cart ride through the picturesque countryside. Continue your journey in an air-conditioned vehicle to Tonle Sap, Cambodia’s largest freshwater lake. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is vital for the Mekong River during the dry season and expands dramatically during the monsoon rains.

Upon arrival, board a local boat at the riverbank for a roughly 30-minute ride to Kompong Phluk, the largest floating village on the lake. Spend the morning here observing the unique daily routines of the villagers living along the lake’s edge, and gain insight into how their lives are influenced by the water.

Today, your Cambodia holiday is free for you to either explore Siem Reap City or simply relax at your leisure. If you're up for it, you might want to check out some of the city's attractions.

Later, you'll depart from Siem Reap and catch a flight to Nha Trang.

Upon arriving in Nha Trang, you'll be greeted by minibus and transported to the jetty. From there, a speedboat will take you to Palm Island, the next destination on your Vietnam holiday.

Whale Island Resort - Ile de Baleine Vietnam represents Vietnam at its most idyllic. With its stunning white beaches, crystal-clear seas, pristine coral reefs, and charming wooden bungalows, it's a slice of paradise. You can choose to swim, snorkel, or dive, or simply relax as much as you like. In the evenings, enjoy strolling along the beach with soft sand beneath your feet and savor fresh fish at the delightful restaurant.

Upon your arrival, a meal will be served, and you can unwind with a drink at the tropical bar, accompanied by the soothing sound of gentle waves. It’s a perfect escape.

On the island, there are just 30 bungalows, nestled among swaying palm trees. These bungalows offer a comfortable and private retreat, allowing you to fully unwind while listening to the soothing sounds of the nearby waves. Constructed with bamboo, brick, and palm wood, each bungalow features a thatched roof made from local palm leaves. The water's edge is just a few steps from your veranda. Each bungalow is elegantly furnished by French management with a double bed (or two singles) and a mosquito net. Private bathrooms and fans are provided to ensure your comfort.

You can rent quality snorkels for less than £2 per day. Whale Island Resort - Ile de Baleine Vietnam is renowned for its excellent diving opportunities. Besides relaxing, you can enjoy various activities as part of your Vietnam holiday package. Surfboards and catamarans are available for hire, or you can book boat and snorkeling trips to nearby bays and islands.

This afternoon, you'll say farewell to Whale Island Resort and return to Nha Trang by boat and minibus. Known as Vietnam's premier beach resort, Nha Trang offers a vibrant nightlife with numerous restaurants, bars, and discos, providing a lively contrast to the island's peacefulness.

You'll spend the night in a cozy hotel located directly on the beachfront boulevard, setting you up for the next leg of your Vietnam holiday adventure tomorrow.

Today, you'll take a brief domestic flight from Nha Trang to Danang, the closest airport to Hoi An. Upon arrival, we will arrange for your transfer to Hoi An.

After lunch (at your own expense), you'll embark on a guided walking tour of Hoi An's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that largely survived the ravages of successive wars. Wander through its charming, pedestrian-only streets and marvel at the beautifully preserved architecture while learning about its historical and cultural significance.

Admire the numerous Chinese assembly halls, including the impressive main altar of the Cantonese Chinese Congregation and the memorial dedicated to 107 Hainanese merchants who were mistaken for pirates during Emperor Tu Duc’s reign. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the 1590s by Japanese traders to connect with the Chinese community across the stream.

After your walking tour, your guide will take you to a family-run restaurant for a small-group cooking class. Discover the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine as a professional chef introduces you to traditional dishes. Start with a trip to the local market to gather fresh ingredients and learn how to select the best produce.

As you cook, you'll uncover tips and techniques for making iconic Vietnamese dishes and receive recipes to impress your family and friends back home. Conclude the day by enjoying a meal of the delicious dishes you've prepared with your fellow participants.

From Google Café in Hoi An, set off on your bike and follow your guide through the charming backstreets and rural lanes just outside the city. As you pedal through the lush countryside, you'll be treated to stunning views of verdant rice paddies and meandering waterways. Make stops in various local villages to engage with residents and learn about their way of life while greeting children along the way.

Next, head to the banks of the Thu Bon River for a scenic boat ride. Enjoy the serene beauty of the river as you travel towards one of its small islands. Once ashore, indulge in a delicious barbecue feast featuring local delicacies. Savor your meal while watching a picturesque sunset over the river, with fishing boats gently swaying in the foreground.

After your meal, return to the boat for a leisurely cruise along the river as the sun sets behind the rice fields. As you approach the dock, watch the lights of Hoi An begin to twinkle. Then, bike back through the lively waterfront crowds to the heart of town.

After breakfast, embark on a minibus journey southward to Hue, a drive that takes approximately four hours. As you travel, you'll pass through coastal rice fields and navigate the scenic Hai Van Pass, a 14-mile (21-km) route renowned for its breathtaking mountain views and its proximity to the glistening South China Sea.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel with views of the Perfume River. The rest of the day is yours to relax and explore at your own pace.

Start your private tour of Hue with a pickup from your hotel in a private vehicle, setting off for a comprehensive exploration of Vietnam's former imperial capital. Your first destination is the Hue Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once housed the Imperial Palace. Designed after Beijing's Forbidden City, the Citadel is a sprawling complex of palaces, tombs, hallways, and ornate temples reflecting the grandeur of the former capital.

Accompanied by your private guide, you'll tour the citadel, which is enclosed by high stone walls, and learn about the Nguyen Emperors who ruled Hue until the early 20th century. Although the site suffered significant damage from French and American bombing and was severely impacted during the 1968 Tet Offensive, ongoing restoration efforts are gradually restoring its former splendor.

Following your exploration, enjoy a leisurely 45-minute cruise along the picturesque Perfume River. Your journey will include a stop at the Thien Mu Pagoda, Vietnam's tallest pagoda, situated on the river's northern bank.

After a satisfying lunch at a local eatery, continue your tour to the Emperor's residence, located about six miles (10 km) from Hue in a lush pine forest. Visit the impressive Royal Tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh, the final resting places of the Nguyen Emperors. As you tour these grand complexes, which include temples, courtyards, and pavilions, marvel at the richly decorated tombs built to honor the Nguyen Dynasty's rulers.

This morning, we continue our adventure with a flight to Hanoi, Vietnam's vibrant and bustling capital. After checking into your hotel, begin your exploration with a visit to the Temple of Literature. Originally dedicated to Confucius, this historic site, established in 1070, was also Vietnam’s first university. Here, you'll find stone steles resting on turtle bases, inscribed with the names of graduates. The temple complex, divided into five courtyards, features pathways that were once reserved for the Emperor and his officials. One courtyard houses a statue of Confucius flanked by two elegant bronze storks perched on turtles.

Following a delightful Vietnamese lunch, visit the Museum of Ethnology, renowned as the finest museum in Vietnam. It showcases exhibits dedicated to the country’s 54 ethnic minority groups. Next, head to Ngoc Son Temple, situated on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake. Dating back to the 13th century, this temple and the picturesque lake are key highlights of Hanoi, attracting both tourists and locals.

Conclude the day with a one-hour cyclo ride through the Old Quarter, also known as the 36 streets. This lively district, with its narrow lanes, is brimming with countless small shops and vendors, offering numerous photo opportunities. You'll return to your hotel around 6:00pm to unwind.

After an early morning pickup from your hotel, you'll embark on a scenic drive to Halong Bay, a journey of approximately four hours in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. Upon arrival around noon, a tour representative will greet you and escort you to your traditional junk boat.

Enjoy a complimentary welcome drink as you board and begin your cruise through the stunning Halong Bay. Meet the crew and fellow travelers while savoring a delicious seafood lunch, accompanied by tea and coffee. Following lunch, relax on the top deck, perfect for capturing the breathtaking views of the bay, while your captain anchors in a tranquil spot ideal for swimming.

You'll have the opportunity to explore the bay's ancient limestone caves by kayak, navigating through secluded lagoons and marveling at the dramatic limestone karsts. The lightweight kayaks are easy to handle, and buoyancy vests will be provided for safety. The junk boat will remain close by as a support vessel.

After your exploration, return to the boat for more relaxation on the deck or enjoy a drink from the bar. In the evening, your chef will prepare a sumptuous meal featuring fresh seafood and traditional Vietnamese dishes as the boat anchors in the heart of the bay. Cap off the night with a chance to try your hand at night fishing from the boat.

Awake to the serene beauty of Halong Bay and enjoy an early morning swim before breakfast. Afterwards, visit the Cave of Surprises, the largest cave in Halong Bay, where you'll explore stunning stalagmites and stalactites along illuminated pathways with a guided tour.

Following a delicious lunch around midday, begin your return cruise to the main harbor. From there, you'll transfer to your vehicle for the four-hour drive back to Hanoi. Your tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel upon arrival in the capital.

Your adventure wraps up today as your guide escorts you to the airport for your departure flight home.