ANGKOR TO THE BAY – CAMBODIA AND VIETNAM 15D14N
Tour summarize:
Day 1: Siem Reap Arrival / City Tours (Nil)
Day 2: Siem Reap / Angkor Discovery (B, L)
Day 3: Siem Reap Tonle Sap Lake – transfer to Phnom Penh (B, L)
Day 4: Phnom Penh City Tours and Silk Island (B, L)
Day 5: Phnom Penh City Tours fly to Saigon (B)
Day 6: Cu Chi Tunnels (B, L)
Day 7: Mekong Delta Cruise (B, L)
Day 8: Explore Saigon fly to Hoi An (B, L)
Day 9: Hoi An half day walking tour (B, L)
Day 10: Hoi An transfer to Hue (B)
Day 11: Hue (B)
Day 12: Hue fly to Hanoi
Day 13: Hanoi – Halong 2 day (B, L, D)
Day 14: Halong – Hanoi (Brunch)
Day 15: Hanoi departure (B)
Detailed itinerary
| Day 1: Siem Reap Arrival / City Tours (Nil) | Upon arrival Siem Reap International Airport, bus or boat station, you are warmly welcomed by our friendly tour guide and then you will transfer direct to check in at hotel. |
| Day 2: Siem Reap / Angkor Discovery (B, L) | After breakfast, visit Angkor Wat: the largest religious monument dedicated to god Vishnu for the Khmer Empire. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture and has become a symbol of Cambodia. Continue to South gate of Angkor Thom: One best-preserved gate of the quadrangle defensive walls of Angkor Thom, once protected the Khmer capital. Climb up and venture on the protection wall towards Prasat Chrung to see the thrilling view of local village: fishing, yellow balloon, thousands of palm trees. Continue to West gate of Angkor Thom: the non-restoration gate, allowing visitors to make the comparison to the best-preserved gate (pre & post restoration). Bayon: a Buddhist temple best known today for the gigantic face sculptures. Stop for lunchtime in Angkor Thom area with healthy & delicious local food. Passing by North gate of Angkor Thom to explore the remarkable rainforest with butterflies, flowers and hearing the sound of nature along the way to Preah Khan: temple completely covered in jungle, consists of 4 doors that make it look alike to a mirror reflection. Tanei: an ancient hospital, untouched by archeologist, hiding its beauty in the middle of forest. Lastly, the very impressive Taprom: the centerpiece of King Jayavarman VII’s master plan, also the headquarters of his vast hospital network. If time permitted, visit sunset from where possible.
Overnight in Siem Reap |
| Day 3: Siem Reap Tonle Sap Lake – transfer to Phnom Penh (B, L) | After breakfast, (depend on season) we drive to visit Tonle Sap Lake either from Chhong Khneas or Kampong Phluk village, the floating village located 10 – 15 kilometers south of Siem Reap. Visit the village and take an excursion in a traditional wooden boat on the Tonle Sap Lake, Cambodia’s biggest natural water body and, one of the largest in Asia. The experience is wonderful as we pass by floating village, friendly children in small boats and fishermen. Return to city by spend your last visit to “Les Artisans D`Angkor – Chantiers Ecoles”, this center works with young artisans; the team creates, produce and market a unique collection of ornamental sculpture, lacquer, silk weaving and silk painting. The company promotes fair and sustainable development in order to provide benefits to rural communities. Lunch at local restaurant before go back to hotel.
In the afternoon, departure to Siem Reap (314 km – 6 hour drives). You’ll transfer by our driver to the bus station for departure to Siem Reap. On arrival, meet our representative and transfer direct to check in at hotel to relax. Overnight in Phnom Penh |
| Day 4: Phnom Penh City Tours and Silk Island (B, L) | This morning, you’ll taken by Remorque “Tuk Tuk” with our professional English speaking tour guide, then start your visit to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21). Head to the Royal Palace, built by King Norodom in 1866 on the site of the old town, and the Silver Pagoda, located within the grounds of the Royal Palace. The Royal Palace of Cambodia is a complex of buildings although it is generally understood to be the royal abode of the King of Cambodia. Continue to Wat Phnom, the most significant of all the temples in Phnom Penh. This effect is a sanctuary founded by Daun Penh (Grandma Penh), a wealthy window who in 1372. The 27 meters high man-made hill became as Wat Phnom Daun Penh. Then you’ll drop off at the pier for you share cruise to Silk Island.
Upon arrival, Embark on Cambo Cruise and sailing while having Fresh BBQ lunch. After lunch time, dock at Silk Island for visiting Silk Farms then ride back to Phnom cool off with a cocktail & Snacks will be provided. Disembark and transfer to your hotel around 4.30pm |
| Day 5: Phnom Penh City Tours fly to Saigon (B) | Have breakfast at hotel and free time at leisure until transferring to Phnom Penh International Airport to Saigon.
Upon arrival, we will transfer you to your hotel |
| Day 6: Cu Chi Tunnels (B, L)
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Confront the reality of guerrilla warfare at the Cu Chi Tunnels. The cramped tunnels were central to a few of the war’s strategic operations, including the famous 1968 Tet Offensive, and they did not escape damage. American B52 bombers dropped hundreds of missiles leaving huge tell-tale craters behind. The Cu Chi experience can be emotional for some visitors, but it offers a fascinating window into the hardship and traumas of war. |
| Day 7: Mekong Delta Cruise (B, L)
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Drive 2 and a half hours down to the picturesque province of Ben Tre situated along the mighty Mekong. This area is known as the ‘Rice Basket of Vietnam’, because its rich and fertile lands produce huge amounts of rice, coconuts, vegetables and tropical fruit. Spend the day cruising and exploring, travelling by motorised, wooden boats between the islands and changing to smaller, paddleboats in the canals. Sightseeing involves hopping on and off these boats, often on unsteady and slippery surfaces, sometimes without handrails or assistance. Return to Saigon this afternoon. |
| Day 8: Explore Saigon fly to Hoi An (B, L)
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Explore modern day Saigon with its heady mix of local culture and colonial influences. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, the Reunification Palace and the chilling War Remnants Museum. See the beautiful Thien Hau Pagoda before finishing at Ben Thanh Market.
Please note: * Be aware that some of the remnants on display at this museum may be confronting and upsetting for some group members.
This afternoon fly 1 hour and 20 minutes to Danang and transfer 45 minutes to the Ancient town of Hoi An for your 2 night stay. |
| Day 9: Hoi An half day walking tour (B, L) | Begin your tour of Hoi An, a former trading port that welcomed Chinese, Dutch, French, Japanese, Portuguese and Arab merchants between the 16th to 18th centuries. Today Hoi An is famous for its restored architecture, homemade silk, expert tailors and delicious noodles and seafood. Its relaxed vibe and pedestrian streets make this town a pleasure to walk around and discover new things.
The tour includes stops at several famous landmarks. The first is Chua Ong Pagoda, dating back to 1653 and built in honor of the Chinese general Quan Cong, who is worshipped by many as a symbol of loyalty and justice.
Next, pop into Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, to see the Jinshang Temple which is dedicated to the goddess of the sea and the protector of sailors. From there it’s a short walk to Tan Ky House, a 200 year old ancestral house and finally, stroll across the often photographed 17th century covered bridge built by Japanese craftsmen. The beautifully built bridge doubles as a temple and is a major landmark of Hoi An. End your afternoon with a boat trip along Thu Bon river.
Note: Estimated pick up time: between 8.00 AM – 8.30 AM or between 1.00 PM – 1.30 PM – Estimated duration: appx. 4 hours. |
| Day 10: Hoi An transfer to Hue (B) | This drive approximately 4 hours to Hue, this journey will take you over the scenic Hai Van Pass. Hue is the epitome of Vietnam’s dynamic past, and considered a scholarly city. Upon arrival, visit Thien Mu Pagoda and take a cruise on the Perfume River. |
| Day 11: Hue (B, L) | This morning, transfer to the tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh. Admire the unusual combination of architecture that blends a traditional Chinese past with a modern Western future. Then, continue to Minh Mang Tomb to explore the opulent and exotic resting place laid out in formal Chinese style. Afterwards, move on to a beautiful old maison that has been transformed to Truc Chi – an art space and workshop by a team of enthusiastic young artists. Get information about Truc Chi and buy their hand-made product (passport cover, fan or candle box made from bamboo pulp) to bring back home as gift for your friends and family if you like.
After lunch, visit the imposing Imperial Citadel and Forbidden Purple City. Finally, hop back into your vehicle to be transferred back to your hotel. Please note: * There are 143 steps to reach the main chamber at Khai Dinh tomb. Please be aware if you are having bad knee. |
| Day 12: Hue fly to Hanoi
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This morning fly 1 hour and 20 minutes to the Charming city of Hanoi where you will check into your hotel.
This afternnoon, Discover the sights of Hanoi today. First stop will be Ba Dinh Square, then the Ho Chi Minh Quarter and visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, followed by the Humble House on Stilts and the One Pillar Pagoda. Then drive to the serene Temple of Literature, Hanoi’s first university.
Please note: * Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum is closed for entry on Mondays and Fridays every week and from September to December each year. During these times we are unable to enter the Mausoleum; however, we can view it from the outside. * It requires a long queuing time to visit Mausoleum especially in high season and rainy days.
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| Day 13: Hanoi – Halong 2 day (B, L, D)
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Drive 4 hours today from Hanoi to Halong, where you will take an overnight cruise to the far-most corners of the bay on a traditional Vietnamese boat. There is usually a crowd of boats at the docks; however, the cruise itself will be scenic and relaxing. Boarding your boat could involve navigating your way over and through other boats, moored between it and the dock, sometimes without handrails, ladders or assistance from staff. The boats usually hold about 40 passengers; have an enclosed dining area and an open area on the upper deck. Enjoy lunch onboard as you cruise out into the bay, stopping to anchor for an afternoon of activities (which are subject to change due to cruise selection and weather conditions). Sightseeing includes visiting underground caves on the islands, which require climbing up and down steps inside and outside of the caves. End the day on deck with a drink in hand to watch the sunset over the bay followed by a freshly prepared dinner, before retiring to your cabin for the night. You will need to pack a smaller overnight bag for your trip to Halong Bay. Main luggage will be left in safe storage at the hotel in Hanoi and picked up your return.
Please note: * Weather conditions such as mist, fog, wind, rain and storms may delay the departure time of your cruise, or in some cases your cruise may be cancelled. Notifications of any delays or cancellations may not be known until your group’s arrival in Halong Bay. If your cruise is cancelled after your arrival in Halong Bay, you will have lunch in Halong City and return to Hanoi. If notification of the cruise cancellation is given prior to your departure for Halong Bay an alternative day trip will be arranged to Hoa Lu and Tam Coc or ‘Halong Bay on Land’, an area located approximately 2 hours from Hanoi. Our guides will make every effort to inform the group at the earliest possible moment should there be any itinerary changes. |
| Day 14: Halong – Hanoi (Brunch) | Spend the morning sailing through Halong Bay. After an early lunch (or brunch meal) disembark your cruise and return to Hanoi.
Please note: * Itinerary subject to change or cancellation due to weather conditions |
| Day 15: Hanoi departure (B) | You will be transferred 1 hour from the hotel to the airport, according to the departure time of your international flight. |
Please note:
- Surcharge for Luanguage Speaking Guide US$15/day (upon availability)
- Above rates are not applied during peak season from 20 Dec 2018/19 to 31 Dec 2018/19
- Peak season surcharge and compulsory dinner advised at booking stage
- The itinerary of cruises can change a little bit, depends on the route of each boat.
- Itinerary subject to change or cancellation due to local weather conditions.
- In Asia, check-in time is usually 2pm and check-out time is 12pm. This is subject to individual hotel regulations. early or late service is subject to availability, often with a surcharge
- Infant below 2 years old sharing same room with parents is free of charge.
- Child below 12 yrs old sharing same room with 1 ADL is charged for 90%.
- Tipping for guide and driver (suggestion):
- Group from 2 – 4 pax: USD 5/ pax/ day
- Group from 5 – 9 pax: USD 4/ pax/ day
- Group from 10 – 15 pax: USD 3/ pax/ day
- Group above 15 pax: USD 2/ pax/ day
Tour includes:
- Accommodation at selected hotels with daily breakfast
- Check-in time is 2.00PM and check-out time is 12.00PM. Early or late service is subject to availability with surcharge.
- Meals as mentioned
- English speaking guide (Halong, Mekong package as group join-in guide)
- Tours and transfers as mentioned by air-conditioned vehicle
- Sightseeing fees and permits during guided time
- Boat cruises mentioned (group join-in for Halong and Mekong)
- Service charge and current government VAT tax
Tour excludes:
- Flights as program: US$115 per ticket per way Saigon – Dalat, Nha Trang – Danang, Danang – Hanoi, subject to availability with surcharge
- VISA – Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam visa must be arranged for non-ASEAN citizens
- Please make sure you have 6 months passport validity. We can help for visa on arrival if request.
- VISA stamp fee at the arrival airport (US$45.00 pay at custom check-in)
- Early/late check in/out service at hotels (surcharge if request)
- Tips and gratuities
- Services and meals if not mentioned in itinerary
- All drinks, including water, soft drink and alcohol on all included or optional excursion
- Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature
- Travel Insurance (Compulsory)
