Cambodia·January 14 - 23 2025

Colorful Cambodia & Vietnam

Be amazed by the sights, sounds and smells of Cambodia and Vietnam

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Overview

From its bustling cities to its ancient culture, Vietnam and Cambodia will thrill you! We start our trip in Cambodia, where we'll explore the largest religious complex in the world, Angkor Wat. Described as a "Hindu-Buddhist" series of temples, it is the setting for sunrise. We'll take a culinary tour of Siem Reap, weaving through the streets in tuk-tuks. We'll also head out to Angkor Thom, the 'Great City,' the most enduring capital city of the Khmer Empire. After Siem Reap, we will fly to Vietnam, where history is around every corner. From the museums to the architecture, every turn is better than the last. We'll see the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the founder of modern-day Vietnam. We'll cruise the streets in the back of a vintage Jeep to experience the real Hanoi. We'll board a cruise ship for two days and one night in Halong Bay. Said to be one of the most beautiful natural wonders of the world, we'll experience it firsthand from in the water and on a boat. Arise and watch the sunrise over the bay from the privacy of your ship's balcony, a cuppa in hand. The trip will end on a high note in Hoi An, a shopper's paradise. Shop till you drop and find hand-tailored garments, hats, and beautiful home goods to take home.

Highlights

Tuk Tuk around Siem Reap and savor local food

Tuk Tuk around Siem Reap and savor local food

Visit Angkor Thom, Angkor Wat and the temple of Ta Prohm

Visit Angkor Thom, Angkor Wat and the temple of Ta Prohm

Take a walking tour of Hanoi including Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and the Presidential Palace

Take a walking tour of Hanoi including Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and the Presidential Palace

Eat at

Eat at "Bun Cha - Obama” - where Barack Obama and Anthony Bourdain once dined together

Visit Hoi An town, characterized by medieval streets with colorful painted houses

Visit Hoi An town, characterized by medieval streets with colorful painted houses

Learn how to prepare local specialties during an authentic cooking class

Learn how to prepare local specialties during an authentic cooking class

Itinerary

Here's a day-by-day itinerary of the trip

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Siem Reap, Cambodia

Day 1: Tuesday, January 14th, 2025

Organize your flight to Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI). It's a long flight from most places, so consider arriving a day early to rest, relax, and adjust to the local time zone. (See more in the FAQ below - "Getting There").

We'll meet you at the airport after you clear customs and collect your luggage. Then, we'll whisk you to the hotel, The Treeline Urban Resort. Enjoy free time and settle in, relax at the pool, or book time at the spa. We'll meet for dinner at a local restaurant.

Included

Dinner

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Temples and Food Tour

Day 2: Wednesday, January 15th, 2025

Wake up early to enjoy sunrise at Angkor Wat, the largest temple complex in the world. The complex covers 200 hectares and is surrounded by a moat. 

After breakfast, we'll visit the Floating Village and take a ride by traditional wooden boat on Tonle Sap Lake to experience the human occupations at the edges of the lake is similarly distinctive – floating villages, towering, stilted houses, huge fish traps, and an economy and way of life deeply intertwined with the lake, the fish, the wildlife and the cycles of rising and falling waters.

We'll spend the afternoon visiting the Chantiers Ecoles - Les Artisans d'Angkor, where young Cambodians hope to revive the ancient Khmer stone carving and wood sculpting traditions. 

Onward to one of the city’s lively open markets, the “Old Market,” where anything and everything is for sale!

We'll take a tuk-tuk in the early evening to experience the local street food for which Siem Reap is known. You’ll sample authentic Khmer dishes in several off-the-beaten-tourist-path settings. 

 

Included

All Meals

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Cambodian Culture

Day 3: Thursday, January 16th, 2025

This morning, we'll visit Angkor Thom. The South Gate of Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple was built between the late 12th century and early 13th century by King Jayavarman VII and consists of 54 towers. A visit here is an experience you'll never forget.

The jungle-covered temple of Ta Prohm is another incredible sight. Here, enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers envelop themselves in the structure's stone foundations, giving the impression that the powerful forces of nature are reclaiming man's creation.

In the afternoon, we've arranged a Tuk Tuk to pick you up for a cruise around the suburb of Siem Reap town and then to a local pagoda for a Buddhist monk blessing ritual for happiness, prosperity, and safety on your journey. Continue to APOPO Visitor Center, a global non-profit organization that trains African giant pouched rats (fondly nicknamed ‘Hero RATs’) to save lives by detecting landmines. Here, you'll discover the history of conflict in Cambodia and the impact of landmines on local communities.

We'll enjoy the evening of the Phare Circus Show.  Phare, The Cambodian Circus, was initiated by Phare Ponleu Selpak, an NGO that supports Cambodian arts and education. The circus troupe consists of talented young artists who have overcome challenging backgrounds, including poverty and conflict.

Dinner will be a gastronomic feast! We'll sample unique dishes at Embassy, a local women-owned restaurant specializing in local ingredients. 


Included

All meals

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Hanoi

Day 4: Friday, January 17th, 2025

The morning is yours to enjoy. We'll pick you up in the late afternoon and take you to the airport for your flight to Hanoi.

A guide and driver will welcome you at the Hanoi Airport and take you to your hotel.

You'll have time to settle in at the Grand Hotel du Lac where sleep will come easy.

Included

Breakfast-Dinner

Not Included

Lunch

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Hanoi Highlights

Day 5: Saturday, January 18th, 2025

After a filling breakfast, we’ll drive to the nation’s capital mall and start our walking tour. We’ll tour Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, the parliament building, the Presidential Palace, and the Communist Party headquarters. This is the place most Vietnamese visit, as Ho Chi Minh is the founder and father of the nation. 

We’ll visit the Temple of Literature and the Hoa Lo Prison Museum of Hanoi, where John McCain was held. 

Lunch will be at “Bun Cha-Obama” - where Barack Obama and Anthony Bourdain ate dinner in Hanoi on the late Bourdain’s CNN TV series. 

After lunch, we'll return to the hotel to rest and change into comfortable clothes for a late afternoon Jeep tour. Rest up ladies. This will be a fun late night!

In the afternoon, we’ll cruise the backstreets of Hanoi in our own jeeps. On the first leg of the trip, we'll pass by or stop at all the MUST-SEE sites in Hanoi. We will visit the enchanting French Quarter, the bustling Old Quarter, the romantic lakes, the Hanoi Opera House, and the famous Long Bien Bridge. 

During the second part of the trip, you'll see the real Hanoi, visiting undiscovered parts of the city with a peek into the backstreets, tiny alleyways, local homes, schools, random markets, and the black market. 

Dinner will be at a local restaurant, where we will sample local dishes with fresh ingredients. 

Included

All Meals

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Halong Bay

Day 6: Sunday, January 19th, 2025

After breakfast, we're taking a 2.5-hour drive to the pier to board the Elite of the Sea Cruises for a cruise to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Halong Bay is said to be one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. The bay consists of thousands of limestone islands that soar from the emerald waters. Wind and water have pounded these islands for millions of years, creating their unusual shapes. With pristine beaches, floating villages, amazing natural caves, and fascinating scenes, Halong and its surroundings are a marvel for first-time travelers to Vietnam. 

We'll eat lunch on board while we cruise to the core of the bay, amongst the limestone islands.

We'll kayak through the karsts in the afternoon, breathing the pristine air and wandering by beautiful beaches. 

You'll have time to take a dip before we return to the ship. 

Tonight, we'll have a sunset party on our cruise as we sail to our overnight anchorage. Dinner and the overnight stay will be on board amongst the islands and under the stars.

Note. The cruise itinerary may differ depending on the tides, boat requirements, and the assigned route.

Included

All Meals

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Halong Bay to Hoi An

Day 7: Monday, January 20th, 2025

Wake up early to catch the sunrise over the Bay’s spectacular landscape with a cup of tea or coffee on your balcony. 

After breakfast, take a rowing boat tour to visit a natural tunnel and floating village.

It's time to leave the ship to make our way back to Hanoi where we revel in the thrill of a cyclo* ride through the Old Quarter, also known as 'Hanoi's 36 streets'. This bustling area of narrow streets and alleys is home to thousands of small businesses and shops. It's a great place to explore, with plenty of photo opportunities. Stop to taste a Hanoi special egg coffee in a 100-year-old traditional coffee house.

For lunch, we'll dine at a local restaurant specializing in "Pho."

We'll take an evening flight to Da Nang then drive down to Hoi An. After checking in at the 5-star La Siesta Hoi An, we'll have dinner at a local restaurant then off to bed.

*A cyclo in Hanoi is a seat for two in front of a bicycle, but don't worry, you won't be driving or pedaling.

Included

All Meals

Flight to Hoi An

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Hoi An Discovery

Day 8: Tuesday, January 21st, 2025

Enjoy breakfast at your leisure. We're heading out for a walking tour to discover Hoi An's key sights. You're about to see the 400-year Japanese Covered Bridge, the Phuc Kien Assembly Halls, the Tan Ky Old House, the central market, and the Hoi An Museum.

Hoi An is a shopper's paradise, and this afternoon, indulge in a luxury shopping experience with clothes tailor-made just for you. 

Enjoy lunch at Long’s house. With a traditional house space typical of the countryside, all coolness and light. More interestingly, The owner will share discoveries of local cultures and flavors. Moreover, the restaurant is a collective community working together. The chefs include the next-door neighbor, a woman. These people are really skilled chefs from a young age, so the food brings the taste of local standards.

You have the afternoon to relax at your leisure.

In the evening, enjoy your sunset dinner cruise and drop candle lanterns to pray for good luck for you and your family. Immerse yourself in the fanciful space of the lantern street.

Included

All Meals

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Hoi An Culture

Day 9: Wednesday, January 22nd, 2025

After a hearty breakfast, our day starts with an electric car tour of the Hoi An countryside.

You'll visit Tra Que village, famous for growing special herbs and vegetables using traditional techniques and organic fertilizers. Perhaps you'll want to join the locals in their daily farm work. You'll see people working on their farms and have the opportunity to visit homes and learn about local life.

For lunch, we'll have a cooking class and discover local specialties.

Later, we'll board a round bamboo boat and row through the coconut forest in Cam Thanh, a Viet Cong war hideout.

Dinner is at a local restaurant, followed by a relaxing night at the hotel.

Included

All Meals

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Departure Day

Day 10: Thursday, January 23rd, 2025

Enjoy breakfast and free time before checking out.

The core trip officially ends in Hoi An, Vietnam. You're off to the airport for your flight home. Plan on flying out of Da Nang International Airport to connect to your entry city in Asia on your route home. 

Included

Breakfast

Airport transfer

You'll Be Staying Here

Treeline Urban Resort

Treeline Urban Resort

Situated along the Siem Reap River, the Treeline Urban Resort is the gateway to the temples and the bustling city of Siem Reap.

Grand Hotel du Lac

Grand Hotel du Lac

Situated in Hanoi Old Quarter, the Grand Hotel du Lac is in the center of the city bustle.

Elite of the Sea Cruises

Elite of the Sea Cruises

Elite of the Sea Cruises is your cruise ship in Halong Bay. Experience luxury on every floor!

La Siesta Hoi An

La Siesta Hoi An

Situated near the UNESCO world cultural hertiage site, La Siesta Hoi An mixes old world and modern conveniences.

Hosts

Stacia Whitney

Stacia Whitney

As a self-diagnosed foodie, foreign grocery stores are Stacia's favorite places to see. She says you can tell a lot about the culture from the grocery stores and markets. Stacia enjoys spending quality time with her ladies and loves to call them friends after the trip. 

Price

Private Room - 10 days in Cambodia & Vietnam

Private Room - 10 days in Cambodia & Vietnam

Everyone gets their own fabulous room

FROM$6,885

Pay in 2 monthly installments of $3,442.50
Shared Room - 10 days in Cambodia & Vietnam

Shared Room - 10 days in Cambodia & Vietnam

Share a room with a family member or friend.

FROM$5,795

Pay in 2 monthly installments of $3,442.50

Add Ons

Arrive one night early in Siem Reap

Arrive one night early in Siem Reap

Includes one night in a deluxe room at the Treeline Urban Resort, Private Airport Arrival Guide & Transfer, & Breakfast

PRICE$275.00

ADD THIS
Stay an Extra Night in Hoi An

Stay an Extra Night in Hoi An

Includes one night in a junior suite at Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa, Airport Departure Transfer, and Breakfast

PRICE$260.00

ADD THIS

The sights and sounds

Colorful Cambodia and Vietnam

From the hustle and bustle of the big cities, Cambodia and Vietnam are not to be missed! Relax on the Halong Bay while kayaking in the clear waters. Experience the mystical Cambodian ruins covered in vines and tree roots, and let's not forget the food. Wander the streets, savoring local cuisine like Pho and green mango salad.

Colorful Cambodia and Vietnam

What's Included

What's Included

Single occupancy rooms

All food as indicated above

2 glasses of beer or wine with dinner

English speaking guides for tours and excursions except during leisure time

Private ensuite cabin on cruise in Halong Bay

Entrance fees for mentioned visits

International Airfare from Seim Reap to Hanoi

Vietnam Visa

International Airfare

Personal expenses including souvenirs, spa tretmants

Other services and meals not indicated above

Cambodia Visa

FAQs

The trip begins in Siem Reap, Cambodia, so please fly into Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI).

The trip officially starts the evening of January 14th, but if you’re traveling across an ocean to get to Cambodia, consider arriving a day or two early so you have time to rest, relax, and adjust to the local time zone. If you do decide to arrive early, there's usually an option in the Add-Ons section to purchase extra nights at the first hotel. If not, just let us know, and we'll get you booked early so you don't have to change rooms. 

The trip officially ends in Hoi An, Vietnam. Plan on flying out of Da Nang International Airport in Quang Nam Province. 

We will have a zoom call about 6 weeks before the trip starts to discuss all that information and give you a packing list. Here is a great website that we love that will help you with packing and travel trips. Don't forget your bathing suit or clothes for swimming.

In Vietnam, 70 and sunny! Rainfall is lowest in January but be prepared for sprinkles.

In Cambodia, high 80's! So much better than the dreary weather we experience in January. Don't forget your sunscreen and a hat!

Yes! You need a VISA to get into both countries. The Vietnam VISA is included in the cost of the trip but the Cambodia is not. You'll need to apply for your Cambodia VISA a month before we leave. 

Cambodia e-Arrival is an online system that streamlines the entry process by replacing traditional paper forms for immigration, health, and customs declarations. All travelers are required to complete the Cambodia e-Arrival online in addition to applying for/being granted a VISA.

You can access it on the official e-Arrival website or via the "Cambodia e-Arrival" app within seven days before arrival. Early access is not allowed. 

After submission, a QR code is issued, which must be presented to immigration authorities upon entry. While it simplifies the process, it does not replace visa requirements. 

Inquire about this trip

Colorful Cambodia & Vietnam

Cambodia· January 14 - 23 2025· 9 nights