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Tour Info

Leave Mon. Oct. 15
Return Fri. Nov. 02

$8,635 - Total Package
$3,580 - Single Room

$270 - Globus Journeys Club Discount

$100 - DWJ sign up discount available

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  Victoria Express Info
   
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2018 Mekong River Cruise, Vietnam & Cambodia 19 days

Including Train to Hillside Station of Sapa & Ha Long Bay Overnight Cruise

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 Honolulu Departure.

Our adventure to fascinating Vietnam and Cambodia begins today with an overnight departure for the Orient. Once the preliminary flight schedule is ready it will be displayed online at doldworldjourneys.com under the journey's web page.

Day 2 Via the Orient to Hanoi, Vietnam.

Based on current flight schedules we make a brief stop in the Orient before continuing our journey to Hanoi, Vietnam. We touchdown in the evening, clear customs and immigration, and are met by our Northern Vietnam Director who will take us to the InterContinental Westlake, our home for the next two nights.

Day 3 Discovering Hanoi.

Today we start by exploring the life of Ho Chi Minh, the father of modern Vietnam. First, visit the Mausoleum and the humble Cottage from which “Uncle Ho” ruled Vietnam until his death in 1969. Next experience: the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, the Soviet-style Ho Chi Minh Museum, and the Presidential Palace. Stop at the infamous “Hanoi Hilton” before continuing to mystical Hoan Kiem Lake, where we will enjoy a brief guided stroll. Nearby we discover the ancient Temple of Literature, over 900 years old and Hanoi’s first university.

Lunch is at Koto, a non-profit restaurant and hospitality program that trains local street children in restaurant skills they can use to find a job and build a stable life. The balance of our day is free to relax or wander around town. Our local director and Alex will have suggestions. (B), (L)

Day 4 Experiencing Hanoi and Overnight Train to Sapa.

Enjoy our leisurely morning to prep for the nights adventure. In the afternoon, enjoy a Cyclo "rickshaw" ride through the fascinating Old Quarter, 36 ancient streets where peddlers trade as they have for centuries. An early dinner this evening is followed by a fascinating performance of Hanoi’s renowned Water Puppets, a traditional art form dating back to the 11th century.

After our show, we head to the train station to board the famous Victoria Express Train for an overnight journey to the hill-station town of Sapa. (B), (D) **PLEASE note singles will have to pair up for the night.

For a truly one of a kind experience, we travel overnight on the Victoria Express Train. The interior is artistically decorated in a classic Victorian style with an Eastern fusion. Located at both end of the carriage are restrooms which are well kept. The staff is friendly and there to make the more of our journey. All cabins feature 2 berths, air-conditioning, and large picture window. (See Victoria Express Train Details.)

Day 5 Exploring Sapa.

In the early morning we say “Aloha” to the accommodating train staff and transfer to the Victoria Sapa Resort & Sapa for breakfast and later our overnight stay.

We begin our day's exploration with a visit to Ta Van and Lao Chai villages, to see the traditional way of life of the Zay and Black Hmong ethnic groups. These ethnic groups live together here under the watch of Fansipan Mountain. The Zay live a sedentary lifestyle and choose land near the valley’s bottom for growing wet rice. The Hmong have historically preferred higher elevations for corn farming but recently they’ve started gradually moving to lower land and learning from others like the Zay.

After lunch, visit the beautiful Silver Waterfall and ascend the highest road in Vietnam to Heaven Gate for stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valley. Tonight, for those interested let's venture through Sapa and perhaps stop at the famous “Love Market,” where local Hmong and Dao come from their villages for the chance to see one another and perhaps go on a date! (B), (L)

Day 6 Sapa Sightseeing and back to Hanoi.

This morning we visit one of the famous Weekly Markets. Here, the local ethnic minority groups wear their most beautiful costumes as they sell and trade their homemade products. The Flower Hmong group is most recognizable with their colorful dress. After a quick photo stop at the China border, visit Taphin Village, home of the Red Dao people who migrated from China starting in the 12th century. The Dao women are recognizable by the bright red turban they wear and, in some cases, shaved eyebrows.

In the afternoon we travel back to Hanoi and overnight at the InterContinental Westlake. The balance of the evening is free for was to wander or just relax. Alex will have something planned. (B), (L)

Day 7 To Ha Long Bay and overnight Bay Cruise.

This morning we travel through the fertile countryside to Hon Gai, gateway to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, the Bay is dotted with over 3,000 limestone islands carved into fanciful shapes by the action of the water. Tunnels, caves, and weirdly shaped outcroppings with imaginative names can be found on many of the small islets sprinkled across the bay.

Board the luxurious Paradise Elegance for an overnight cruise on the bay. After lunch, experience the amazing Sung Sat Cave, considered one of the most beautiful in the area with its magnificent formations. Enjoy scenic sailing for the remainder of the day before anchoring of Coconut Tree Island for the night. (B), (L), (D)

On Board the Paradise Elegance enjoy a Cooking Demonstration and a morning Tai Chi session. Savor complimentary tea and coffee. Why not pamper yourself with a spa treatment or enjoy some time at the Piano Bar. Of course, you can just sit back, relax and take in the amazing scenery from the upper deck or your balcony. (See Ha Long Bay Ship Details.)

Day 8 Via Hanoi to Siem Reap.

Before breakfast this morning, discover Titop Island, where we have an opportunity to swim or climb the 400 steps to the top for stunning views. Afterwards, we head back to Hanoi for our two-hour afternoon flight to Siem Reap, home of the Temples of Angkor. On arrival we transfer to the prestigious Park Hyatt Siem Reap for the next three nights. Located in the heart of the city, this award-winning hotel blends an elegant and contemporary design to create an enlivening resort and residential feel. (B)

Day 9 Discover Angkor Temples.

Our highlight today is the famous Temples of Angkor. Constructed between the 9th and 13th centuries, the temples were built around the Khmer Interpretations of Indian religious and political beliefs that ultimately evolved from Hinduism to Buddhism. The complex architectural grandeur of the Angkor temples is arguably unmatched among ancient ruins anywhere in the world.

Begin with a visit to the best preserved and most famous of all the temples: Angkor Wat, honoring the Hindu god Vishnu. Featuring five trademark towers and stunning bas reliefs, it has become a symbol of Cambodia. Then, explore Banteay Srei, a unique temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Unlike other temples, it is built on a small scale from red sandstone, which can be carved like wood. This evening, savor a Private Apsara Dance Performance, where the ancient Khmer culture is brought to life by talented dancers, singers, and musicians. (B), (L), (D)

Day 10 Continue Angkor Temple Experience.

Today we continue our exploration of the Angkor Temples by tuk-tuk. Start at Angkor Thom where we will explore Bayon Temple. One of the few Buddhist temples in Angkor, it features some 200 striking faces carved in 54 towers and impressive bas reliefs. Next stop is Ta Prohm, which, unlike the other temples, has been left relatively untouched. Tree roots grow over and through the ruin walls, allowing us to experience the temple with the same wonder as the early explorers who discovered it. Lastly, stop at Les Artisans D’Angkor, a development project teaching young adults traditional handicraft techniques. The rest of the afternoon is at our leisure to explore this charming town. Alex and our Cruise Director will take us over to Pub Street for a variety of eating options. (B)

Day 11 Embarkation and cruising Tonle Sap.

After breakfast at our hotel, we transfer to the port and board the newly built Avalon Saigon and begin our cruise down the mighty Mekong through Cambodia and Vietnam. Savor our deluxe vessel as we head through Tonle Sap “Great Lake” in the afternoon. After the rainy season, this massive body of water can cover around 10,000 square miles and provides the perfect breeding ground for fish, which provide food for people living on the lake. This evening, savor a Welcome Reception. (B), (L), (D)

The all-suite Saigon is Avalon's newest (set to launch in 2018) Suite Ship in Asia specifically designed to offer the best cruise experience on the Mekong River. She is one of only two ships in the industry (along with her sister ship the Avalon Siem Reap) cruising from Siem Reap* to Ho Chi Minh City eliminating hours of motorcoach travel time, which means more deluxe cruising!

The ship retains the colonial charm fitting to Vietnam and Cambodia while offering all the comforting modern features. Carrying only 36 guests the ship offers an unrivaled small-ship cruise experience ensuring we engage with locals, experience their culture, and revel in the unique sights along the majestic Mekong. It is built as long and wide as other ships that carry twice as many guests. From the spacious dining room, open-air observation lounge and air-conditioned Panorama Lounge there are plenty of places to sit, relax, and have a magnificent view of the passing scenery. In addition, there's a fitness center, library and games, and spa room offering relaxing massages. And with a crew to guest ratio of nearly 1:1 we will experience personalized service throughout our journey.

The hotel-style Avalon Suites features an expansive 245 square feet of living space. The innovative Open-Air Balcony is a floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall panoramic window measuring a massive 14 feet across. The doors slide open a full 9 feet, creating the feeling of sitting outside. And when the window is closed the space transforms into a comfortable sitting room as you watch the passing scenery. You'll also appreciate the thoughtful design of the bathroom. with its enlarged showers, marble countertops, premium fixtures, and a rain shower head. It's a luxurious hotel room on a ship.

With all meals included on board, every dining experience brings our destination to life. Try authentic cuisine from Vietnam or Cambodia or more familiar Western alternatives. The breakfast buffet offers a wide variety of dishes to start our day off right. Lunch features a buffet and a live cooking station showcasing local specialties served by our Head Chef. In the evening, a four-course à la carte dinner awaits with choice of salads, soups, entrées, dessert or cheese, and complimentary wine, local beer/spirits, soft drinks, coffee & tea. Vegetarian options are available with all meals. (See Avalon Saigon Ship Details.)

* Cruising from Siem Reap is dependent on water levels.

Day 12 Kampong Tralach, Konpong Louang and Phnom Penh.

Start our day with an Oxcart Ride past the rice paddy fields of Kampong Tralach and the beautiful Cambodian countryside. Along the way we meet with a Local Farmer and learn more about his daily life. Next visit the Silversmith Village of Konpong Louang. Here we see talented craftsmen use age-old techniques to turn pure silver into works of art.

Then sail to the capital city of Phnom Penh. After lunch, our sightseeing by private Cyclo Ride includes stops at the Royal Palace with the spectacular Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, featuring an outstanding display of Khmer artifacts. (B), (L), (D)

Day 13 Discovering Phnom Penh.

Sightseeing this morning provides a glimpse of the atrocities inflicted on the Cambodian people by the Khmer Rouge regime. Explore the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former high school that housed over 17,000 prisoners. Of this number, it is believed that less than 15 survived the torture and avoided being sent to the Killing Fields. We'll also visit one of the Killing Fields, where over 200,000 people were killed by the Khmer Rouge. The remainder of the day is at our leisure to explore the city. Just before dinner, children from a local orphanage will put on a show featuring local song and dance. (B), (L), (D)

Day 14 Wat Hanchey and Angkor Ban.

This morning experience Wat Hanchey, a temple dating back to the 8th century and the Chenla Empire. From its hilltop location enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area and partake in a Traditional Water Blessing given by local monks. After lunch, enjoy a guided stroll through the rural village of Angkor Ban. Here we will view traditional Khmer houses and visit a local school. (B), (L), (D)

Day 15 Chau Doc, Vietnam.

Cross the border this morning into Vietnam and sail to Chau Doc. Upon arrival, walk through the Local Market and absorb the atmosphere as locals are busy buying and selling fish, meat, and produce. After lunch, join a sampan excursion down the backwaters of the river to the religious sites at the base of Sam Mountain. Along the way, see traditional floating homes, speedboat merchants, a market selling dried goods, and more. (B), (L), (D)

Day 16 Long Khong A and Cu Lao Gieng.

After breakfast a sampan brings us to the village of Long Khong A, where cotton weaving is a well-preserved tradition. We spend time at a house to talk with the family and watch a Cotton-Weaving Demonstration. Once again, in the afternoon we board a sampan and enjoy scenes of daily life along the river. Stop at a Local Home to learn how this skilled family works together to hand-craft sampans for a living. Later ride a specially designed motor cart to one of Vietnam’s oldest churches for an Interesting Conversation with a Catholic Priest. (B), (L), (D)

Day 17 Experience Ben Tre.

After breakfast we board a sampan for a scenic cruise to Ben Tre. Visit a Local Workshop to see how rice wine and traditional coconut candy are made. Then we continue to a Local Garden where several types of fruit indigenous to the area are grown. Spend the rest of our day savoring life on board our deluxe ship and say “Aloha” to our newly made friends, as we sail to exciting Ho Chi Minh City, the last port of our cruise. (B), (L), (D)

Day 18 Disembarkation and Exploring Ho Chi Minh City.

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, still known as Saigon to many. This morning, enjoy a Guided Walk of the city’s famous and historic landmarks as we stroll through the heart of the city along Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat) past Ho Chi Minh Square, the Municipal Theatre, the Central Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral. Stop at the Rex Hotel for a refreshing drink at the popular Rooftop Bar where the U.S. Military held the infamous “Five O’clock Follies” during the war. Next, visit the War Remnants Museum followed by Ben Thanh Market, the largest and oldest in the city. For lunch, participate in a hands-on Vietnamese Cooking Class. Then head into the classroom and learn how to prepare different local dishes and the techniques necessary to recreate them once we return home. Last but not least, sample our delicious creations!

This afternoon we leave the city and drive through vast expanses of rice paddies to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extraordinary network of tunnels more than 120 miles in length that was used by the Viet Cong as a hideout and secret village during the war. Here we learn about how the tunnels were constructed and have a chance to walk through a section to experience what life would have been like underground. This evening savor a special farewell dinner hosted by our Cruise Director. The award winning Reverie Sagion Hotel. (B), (L), (D)

Day 19 To Honolulu.

Fabulous memories of an amazing experience are with us as make our way home today. Our flight is should arrive into Honolulu before noon today (due to the time change). (B)