Angkor to the Bay

Day 1  Siem Reap, Cambodia      
Arrive in Siem Reap, neighbour to both the Temples of Angkor and Tonle Sap Lake, and not without its own excitement. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.        

Day 2  Tonle Sap Lake      
This morning explores the Cambodian jungle’s hidden gem, Beng Mealea, a mysterious sandstone temple engulfed in jungle vegetation. Depending on water levels you’ll either enjoy a cruise on Tonle Sap Lake, visiting Kampong Kleng, a unique village on stilts or visit the equally impressive Chong Kneas floating village. Drop by Artisan D’angkor before dinner this evening and the traditional Apsara dance show.        

Day 3  Angkor        
Enter the walled city of Angkor Thom, previous centre of the thriving Khmer Empire, and head to its heart to see the enigmatic Bayon, followed by the atmospheric Ta Prohm. Angkor Wat is a truly sublime temple complex standing as the largest religious monument in the world, this afternoon is dedicated to its discovery. Secret elements of the ancient Khmer water systems will be learnt as you drift the moat of Angkor Thom while the sunsets.        

Day 4  Siem Reap to Phnom Penh      
Take a short flight to Phnom Penh, a prosperous city with a tumultuous past. Visit the gleaming spires of the Royal Palace and the opulent silver Pagoda, before admiring the artefacts at the National Museum.

Day 5  Phnom Penh to Saigon, Vietnam        
The emotive Tuol Sleng Museum was once a torture and execution centre of the Khmer empire and is now a museum of commemoration of atrocities that occurred here. Time spent at this museum will be thought provoking and possibly heavy on the heart, but it all goes to honour the lives affected by this tragedy in Cambodian history. Later, venture to the elegant hilltop temple of Wat Phnom before your departing fight to Saigon.    

Day 6  The Cu Chi Tunnels        
Confront the reality of guerrilla warfare at the Cu Chi Tunnels. The narrow tunnels were central to the strategic operations of the war, damaged caused by the dropped missiles from American B52 bombers. Continue sightseeing at the Reunification Palace and the moving War Remnants Museum, before finishing at the lively Ben Thanh Market.      

Day 7  Mekong Delta        
Spend the day cruising the mighty Mekong, known as the ‘Rice Basket of Vietnam’, the area’s rich and fertile lands produce large quantities of rice, coconuts, vegetables, and exotic fruits.    

Day 8  Saigon to Hoi An      
The exuberant city of Saigon is driving Vietnam forward into the modern world and is also a treasure trove of fascinating heritage. Parade the city and spot the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the enchanting Thien Hau Pagoda.Fly on to Danang and transfer to the well-preserved ancient town of Hoi An.

Day 9  Hoi An        
Venture out into the verdant countryside to the small farming community of Tra Que. After lunch you’ll endeavour on a walking tour of Hoi An, to see the elaborate Japanese Bridge, a Chinese temple, and a bustling market. Watch artisans at work at a social enterprise craft workshop, Reaching Out.

Day 10  Hoi An to Hue      
Enjoy a morning at leisure in Hoi An to take in the cities multicultural history reflected in the architecture. Later head to Hue, travelling over the Hai Van Pass. Cruise along the pleasant Perfume River to the picturesque Thien Mu Pagoda.  

Day 11  Hue        
Today you’ll visit the UNESCO World Heritage Royal Tombs of Emperors Khai Dinh and Minh Mang. Your creativity will flourish as you learn to craft art with bamboo paper, in a Truc Chi workshop. The imposing Imperial Citadel is the final sight of the day and a fascinating one.    

Day 12  Hue to Hanoi      
After a short flight you’ll find yourself in Hanoi, a city with an exciting combination of eastern and western influences. A thrilling cyclo ride will take you through the vibrant Old Quarter and you’ll enjoy a flavourful Vietnamese coffee at a café overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake.  

Day 13  Hanoi to Halong Bay      
Drive from Hanoi to jump on board a charming cruise ship you’ll sail amongst magnificent karst peaks on the tranquil green waters of Halong Bay. Tonight, you will sleep soundly amongst the celestial beauty of limestone pillars and dainty islets which rise from the emerald waters.    

Day 14  Halong Bay to Hanoi      
Wake this morning on the calming bay before returning to Hanoi and attend The Quintessence of Tonkin show, a spectacular open-air performance celebrating the rich history of northern Vietnam.      

Day 15  Hanoi        
Delve into the roots of Hanoi when exploring the Ho Chi Minh Quarter, the Stilt House, One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature.    

Day 16  Hanoi        
Your tour comes to an end after breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward journey.