Vietnam & Cambodia Cultural Odyssey

Itinerary

Day 1: Departure from Canada/USA

Depart Canada or the USA for a lifetime experience. Your international flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment.

Day 2: Hanoi

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our local guide and chauffeured to your luxurious hotel. Take the rest of the day to unwind, soak in the ambiance of Vietnam’s capital, or take a gentle stroll through its bustling streets. Overnight in Hanoi, where the blend of French colonial architecture with Eastern influences sets the scene for your adventure.

Day 3: Hanoi

After breakfast at your hotel, begin a comprehensive city tour of Hanoi at 8:30 AM, led by your knowledgeable guide and driver. The journey starts at the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where you can visit the preserved Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the adjacent Presidential Palace, notable for its French colonial architecture. Wander through Ho Chi Minh’s House on Stilts, revealing insights into the modest life of Vietnam’s first president. Nearby, the One Pillar Pagoda awaits with its unique design, a must-see for its architectural and cultural significance.

Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university and a historic Confucian temple, highlighting the country’s educational and religious traditions. Enjoy a local lunch to sample Hanoi’s renowned cuisine before proceeding to the Hoa Lo Museum, famously known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” where American POWs were held during the Vietnam War.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Hanoi’s Old Quarter with a cyclo ride through its 36 historic streets, blending the old with the new in this dynamic heart of the capital. Cap off the day with a mesmerizing water puppet performance, a unique art form originating from northern Vietnam. Return to your hotel to relax and reflect on a day full of discovery. Overnight in Hanoi.

Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 4: Halong Bay

Start your day early by joining Hanoi’s locals in their morning routines at a nearby lake. Engage in or observe activities such as Tai Chi, jogging, martial arts, and classical dance, capturing the essence of local life as the city awakens. After this invigorating start, return to your hotel for a hearty breakfast.

Post-breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its spectacular seascape and geological wonders. Upon arrival, board a luxurious cruise ship, your floating home for the night. Set sail through the emerald waters, surrounded by towering limestone islands. Your cruise includes stops at various natural caves, an opportunity for a swim in the crystal-clear bay waters, and plenty of time to soak in the stunning sunset.

Conclude your day with a sumptuous dinner on board as you float amidst Halong Bay’s breathtaking scenery. Overnight on the cruise, enveloped by the tranquil beauty of the bay under a starlit sky.

Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 5: Hue

Rise early to experience a stunning sunrise over Halong Bay’s karst landscapes, a truly unforgettable spectacle. Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast or brunch on board as the cruise makes its leisurely return to the harbor, offering one last glance at the breathtaking rock formations.

After disembarking, you’ll be met by our guide and driver who will transport you back to Hanoi, just in time for your flight to Hue. Upon arrival in the historic city of Hue, once the capital of Vietnam, a representative will greet you and arrange your transfer to your hotel.

Settle in for the evening and rest up at your hotel in Hue, preparing for another day of exploration in this city rich with history.

Meals: breakfast

Day 6: Hue

Begin your day in Hue, the enchanting former capital of Vietnam, which serves as a repository of the Nguyen dynasty’s grandeur. After breakfast, embark on a dragon boat to cruise along the scenic Perfume River. Your first visit is to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, also known as the Lady Pagoda, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the river and the lush landscape.

Continue your journey to the royal tombs of Kings Minh Mang and Khai Dinh, each showcasing a unique blend of traditional Vietnamese design and modern influences, reflecting the diverse architectural heritage of Hue. After exploring these majestic resting places, savor a local lunch at a nearby restaurant.

In the afternoon, delve into the heart of Hue’s historical narrative with a visit to the Imperial Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City. These sites provide a deep insight into the lives of Vietnam’s former royal family and are key highlights for understanding Hue’s cultural and historical significance. After your tour, return to your hotel to relax, or take the evening to explore more of Hue at your leisure. Overnight in Hue.

Meals: breakfast and dinner

Day 7: Hoi An

This morning, depart Hue and travel south to Hoi An, traversing the breathtaking Hai Van Pass. Enjoy expansive views of headlands and bays from one of Vietnam’s most scenic routes. Along the way, stop in Da Nang to explore the Cham Museum, which offers insights into the ancient Cham civilization, and take a moment to see the iconic Dragon Bridge and the serene My Khe Beach.

Upon arrival in Hoi An, refresh yourself with lunch at a local restaurant before beginning an afternoon tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An, where history is preserved in the Japanese Covered Bridge, the intricate Chinese Assembly Halls, a 200-year-old house, various historic temples, and the bustling Centre Market. Experience the unique blend of architectural styles and cultures that make this town a cultural treasure.

Conclude your day by checking into your hotel and enjoying a restful evening. Overnight in Hoi An, where the lantern-lit streets invite peaceful evening strolls.

Meals: breakfast and lunch

Day 8: Hoi An

Begin your day at Hai Café, your charming meeting point where you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink to set the tone for an engaging culinary adventure. Embark on a visit to the vibrant Hoi An Market, where the colorful displays of fresh produce and the lively exchanges between local vendors offer a feast for the senses. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the ingredients you’ll use later in your cooking class.

After the market tour, board a Red Bridge boat for a picturesque 25-minute cruise along the Hoi An River to the Red Bridge Cooking School. Enjoy the views of daily life along the riverbanks—perfect for those looking to capture memorable photos. Upon arrival at the school, explore the lush herb garden before diving into a hands-on cooking class. Under the guidance of expert chefs, you’ll learn the techniques and secrets behind some of Hoi An’s and Vietnam’s most famous dishes, including the art of Vietnamese food carving.

Savor the dishes you’ve prepared for a truly rewarding lunch experience. Following your culinary journey, return to your hotel for some well-deserved relaxation or further exploration of Hoi An at your own pace. Overnight in Hoi An, where the evening atmosphere is as delightful as the flavors you experienced today.

Meals: breakfast and lunch

Day 9: My Son

Embark on an early morning journey from Hoi An to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of My Son Sanctuary, the ancient spiritual center of the Cham civilization. Depart at 8:00 AM for a scenic drive, passing serene fishing villages and picturesque natural landscapes along the way.

Upon arrival at My Son, often referred to as the “Valley of Kings,” explore this archaeological marvel that served as the capital of the Cham Pa Kingdom from the 4th to the 15th century. Absorb the mystical atmosphere of the ruins through a guided tour, and enhance your visit with a captivating traditional dance performance, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Cham people.

After soaking in the historical and architectural significance of My Son, return to Hoi An for lunch at a local restaurant. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, perfect for some relaxation or indulging in some shopping in Hoi An’s charming boutiques and markets.

Meals: breakfast and lunch

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast in Hoi An before preparing for your departure. Enjoy some free time to relax or take a final stroll around the charming streets before being transferred to Danang airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, you will be welcomed into the dynamic and bustling metropolis of the south. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Dive into the vibrant city life, discover local eateries, or simply relax at your hotel and prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City, where the energy of Vietnam’s largest city promises a lively evening atmosphere.

Meals: breakfast

Day 11: Cu Chi Tunnels

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before meeting your guide in the lobby. Set out on a journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, about an hour and a half drive from Ho Chi Minh City. Here, delve into the complex network of tunnels spanning over 200 kilometers, which served as a critical hideout and base for the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. This underground maze offers a profound insight into the ingenuity and resilience of the guerrilla fighters.

After exploring the tunnels, return to Ho Chi Minh City for lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, embark on a city tour starting with the Reunification Palace, a landmark steeped in historical significance as the site where the Vietnam War ended. Continue to the War Remnants Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the war’s impact on Vietnam, followed by a visit to the architectural marvel of the Old Post Office and the bustling Ben Thanh Market, a perfect spot for souvenirs and local handicrafts.

Conclude your day by returning to your hotel, where the evening is yours to relax and absorb the vibrant city atmosphere. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Meals: breakfast and lunch

Day 12: Mekong Delta

After an early breakfast at your hotel, your guide will escort you to Cai Be, a vibrant riverside town in the heart of the Mekong Delta. Upon arrival, board a boat to explore the bustling Cai Be floating market, where vendors sell their goods directly from their boats. Following the market visit, delve into a local workshop to see traditional techniques for making rice paper, coconut candy, and popped rice, and enjoy some freshly made sweets accompanied by hot tea.

Continue your adventure by rowing through narrower canals, which offer a serene escape and picturesque views of the surrounding countryside. Visit a local garden where you can relax, savor fresh fruits, and listen to traditional Vietnamese music, immersing yourself fully in the local culture.

For lunch, indulge in authentic flavors at a home restaurant, experiencing the hospitality and culinary delights of the Delta. Post-lunch, venture to Tan Phong Island, where you can either bike or walk through village paths to observe daily life in the Delta. See local artisans at work, weaving products from dried water hyacinth, and explore the community’s orchards, schools, and religious sites.

Conclude your day by cruising back to Cai Be pier and driving back to Ho Chi Minh City, reflecting on a day filled with rich cultural insights and natural beauty. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City, relaxing after your immersive Mekong Delta experience.

Meals: breakfast and lunch

Day 13: Tonle Sap Lake

Spend the morning at your leisure in Ho Chi Minh City, enjoying last-minute sightseeing, shopping for souvenirs, or capturing memorable photos of this vibrant city. You’ll then be transferred to the airport to catch your flight to Siem Reap, arriving three hours before your scheduled departure to ensure a smooth check-in process.

Upon arrival in Siem Reap, you will be greeted by our friendly guide and taken to your hotel for check-in. After settling in, your adventure continues at around 3 pm with a tour to Chong Khneas, a floating village located 10 kilometers south of Siem Reap. Board a traditional wooden boat to explore Tonle Sap Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, known for its rich biodiversity and cultural significance. The boat ride provides a unique glimpse into the daily lives of the local people living in the floating village, complete with floating schools and a floating police station.

As the boat meanders through the village and briefly enters the vast expanse of the Great Lake, witness how this community adapts to the changing water levels and currents. Enjoy dinner at your leisure, experiencing local cuisine at one of Siem Reap’s many restaurants. Overnight in Siem Reap, where the night is yours to relax or explore further.

Meals: breakfast

Day 14: Angkor Temples

Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast at the hotel before heading out to explore the ancient city of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire. Start at the South Gate, adorned with its intricate and massive statues depicting the churning of the ocean of milk. Within the city, marvel at the Bayon Temple, famous for its 54 towers featuring over 200 serene, smiling faces of Avalokiteshvara. Also visit the Phimeanakas, the Royal Enclosure, the Elephant Terrace, and the Terrace of the Leper King, each rich with history and ornate carvings.

Continue your journey to the enchanting Ta Prohm Temple, which has been overtaken by the jungle, creating a mesmerizing, photogenic landscape. This temple famously served as a backdrop in the Hollywood film “Tomb Raider,” adding to its appeal with its blend of natural beauty and architectural marvel.

In the afternoon, visit the iconic Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992. This temple is celebrated for its complex and artistic architecture, as well as its extensive and intricate bas-reliefs that illustrate tales from Hindu mythology. Conclude your day with a visit to Bakheng Temple, located on a hill that offers stunning views of the sunset over the Angkor complex. This serene end to a day filled with exploration is the perfect way to absorb the spiritual and historical significance of these ancient wonders.

Return to your hotel in Siem Reap for the night, filled with the awe-inspiring sights of Cambodia’s treasured past.

Meals: breakfast and lunch

Day 15: Siem Reap

Enjoy a leisurely morning before your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, explore more of Siem Reap or shop for souvenirs before being transferred to the airport, where your unforgettable journey comes to an end.

Meals: breakfast