Hanoi

Xin Chao and welcome to Hanoi. On arrival, you’ll be transferred to downtown Hanoi for your included one-night stay. Relax at the hotel, explore the city, or wander Hanoi’s romantic West Lake. This evening, meet your tour director for your welcome briefing.

Hanoi

This morning after breakfast, leave Hanoi and travel to Halong Bay where you will board your elegant Au Co cruise ship. Cruise through the bays and islets enjoying the stunning scenery of this magnificent region. Enjoy the tours offered on board, learn more about the main livelihood of the... This morning after breakfast, leave Hanoi and travel to Halong Bay where you will board your elegant Au Co cruise ship. Cruise through the bays and islets enjoying the stunning scenery of this magnificent region. Enjoy the tours offered on board, learn more about the main livelihood of the locals in the area or simply choose to relax. Towards the end of the day, the ship anchors for the night in the Trinh Nu area among the karst formations where dinner will be served on board.Included ExcursionA two-night Halong Bay cruise Read More

Ha Long Bay

A visit to the north is not complete without a trip to Halong Bay, where placid waters give way to more than 3,000 limestone karsts and wind-sculpted limestone formations that jut from foggy lagoons. Dotting the bay are tiny islands bordered by white sandy coves and hidden caves, adding to... A visit to the north is not complete without a trip to Halong Bay, where placid waters give way to more than 3,000 limestone karsts and wind-sculpted limestone formations that jut from foggy lagoons. Dotting the bay are tiny islands bordered by white sandy coves and hidden caves, adding to the majestic landscape of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Adding to this naturalist’s dream is the biodiversity of islets, grottos, and Cat Ba Island National Park. The bay, however, shows tourism’s impact: the clearing of mangrove forests to make way for jetties and piers, marine life threatened by game fishing, and garbage from passenger boats and fishing villages washed up on the shores.Beyond its geological uniqueness are activities like hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, or exploring one of the many floating villages where fishermen bring in their daily catch. The downside to all this allure is the large number of unlicensed boats it draws to the bay each day.Boat trips out onto the bay are the main tourism stock in trade farther north, but a more multifaceted side of the area can be experienced at Cat Ba Island. The largest island in Halong Bay, Cat Ba is very much its own entity. Its national park offers incredible biodiversity, with more than a thousand species of plants having been recorded here. Animal life is slightly thinner on the ground, but alert visitors may spy inhabitants such as the endangered golden-headed langur, wild boar, deer, civets, and several species of squirrel. Trekking through the wilderness is a highlight with a number of fascinating trails to follow.Cat Ba Island has also become a firm favorite with the adventure sports set. Indeed, along with Railay Beach in Thailand, it is recognized as one of the top spots in the region for rock climbing. Other outdoor pursuits include sailing and kayaking around the karsts. Although Halong Bay has arguably been tainted by over-exposure, Bai Tu Long Bay farther east toward China, retains all the majesty of Vietnam’s premier bucket-list natural attraction but sees a fraction of the traffic of its immediate neighbor to the west. Here, visitors will find islands of substantial size with deserted beaches and untamed jungle. Halong Bay's 3,000 islands of dolomite and limestone cover a 1,500-square-km (580-square-mile) area, extending across the Gulf of Tonkin nearly to the Chinese border. According to legend, this breathtaking land- and seascape was formed by a giant dragon that came barreling out of the mountains toward the ocean—hence the name (Halong translates into "descent of the dragon"). Geologists are more likely to attribute the formations to sedimentary limestone that formed here between 300 and 500 million years ago, in the Paleozoic Era. Over millions of years water receded and exposed the limestone to wind, rain, and tidal erosion.Today the limestone formations are exposed to hordes of tourists—but don't let that discourage you. Hundreds of fishing trawlers and tour boats share space on these crystal waters, yet there seems to be room for everyone. Most people use the main population center, Halong City, as a base from which to venture into the bay. Although it's now officially one municipality, Halong City was, until 1996, two separate towns: Bai Chay is now Halong City West, where Halong Road winds its way around the coast and past the lifeless central beach; Hon Gai is the grimier Halong City East, where a coal transportation depot dominates the center of town and covers nearby roads and buildings with a sooty film. Locals still refer to the towns by their old names, but they are now inexorably lassoed together by a bridge. Boat trips through Halong Bay are the main attraction. Little of the majesty of this region can be found in the city, so head out onto the water and start exploring. Countless 10- and 30-foot fishing boats have been converted into Halong Bay's formidable tourist-boat fleet. Hotels or travel agencies in Halong City or Hanoi can arrange boat trips for you (often they are part of organized tours from Hanoi). It is still possible to go down to the wharf and bargain yourself onto a boat for the day, but you are likely to be charged (sometimes significantly) more than you would pay for a prebooked tour, so this is not advised. Self-sufficient travelers have fallen victim to the old bait-and-switch: they've arranged a next-day boat tour with local fishermen, only to be told in no uncertain terms the following morning that they could not board their chosen boat, but they could take a different one for quite a bit more money. You may have no choice in the end. Usually travel agencies, however, have their tried-and-true favorites. Read More

Ha Long Bay

Today, continue sailing further into the region’s more untouched areas towards Lan Ha Bay. From a smaller boat, enjoy swimming on quiet beaches and kayaking in Ho Ba Ham Lake. Then visit Cua Van fishing village by rowing boat. After a full day’s exploration, you’ll return... Today, continue sailing further into the region’s more untouched areas towards Lan Ha Bay. From a smaller boat, enjoy swimming on quiet beaches and kayaking in Ho Ba Ham Lake. Then visit Cua Van fishing village by rowing boat. After a full day’s exploration, you’ll return to your cruise ship and after dinner, try your hand at squid fishing. Read More

Ha Long Bay

Enjoy the sunrise and breakfast. Then cruise through breathtaking rock formations and visit Sung Sot Cave, before arriving back at port for your transfer to Hanoi.On arrival back in Hanoi, explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university established to educate Vietnam&rsq... Enjoy the sunrise and breakfast. Then cruise through breathtaking rock formations and visit Sung Sot Cave, before arriving back at port for your transfer to Hanoi.On arrival back in Hanoi, explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university established to educate Vietnam’s royalty, mandarins and members of the elite. The university functioned for an incredible 700 years, and its charming gardens and well-preserved architecture offer a fascinating glimpse into the nation’s storied past. Then visit Hanoi’s Old Quarter also known as the ‘36 Streets’. This bustling area of narrow streets and alleys is home to literally thousands of small businesses and shopkeepers. It's a great place to explore with plenty of photo opportunities. Visit Hang Be Market, also located in the Old Quarter, before enjoying a walk around Hoàn Kiem Lake located in central Hanoi. Here walk across the red bridge to Ngoc Son Temple located on the Jade Islet within the lake. Later, enjoy a traditional water puppet show, a unique North Vietnamese art form depicting scenes from rural life and episodes of historical significance. As part of EmeraldPLUS, you'll enjoy dinner at KOTO (Know One Teach One), a unique restaurant set up to train and educate disadvantaged children.EmeraldPLUSDinner at KOTO RestaurantIncluded ExcursionTemple of LiteratureIncluded ExcursionVisit Hanoi’s Old QuarterIncluded ExcursionA traditional water puppet show Read More

Hanoi

Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam, is a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern energy. Renowned for its rich history, the city features stunning colonial architecture, ancient temples, and the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, which serves as a tranquil oasis amid the urban bustle. Visi... Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam, is a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern energy. Renowned for its rich history, the city features stunning colonial architecture, ancient temples, and the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, which serves as a tranquil oasis amid the urban bustle. Visitors can wander through the vibrant streets of the Old Quarter, where a tapestry of shops, street vendors, and local eateries showcase the best of Vietnamese cuisine. The city's cultural heritage is reflected in its many museums and galleries, offering insights into Vietnam's storied past. With its lively atmosphere, friendly locals, and a wealth of experiences, Hanoi is an enchanting destination that invites exploration at every turn. Read More

Hanoi

Begin your morning city tour and learn about ‘Uncle Ho’, Ho Chi Minh, regarded as the father of modern Vietnam. Admire the exterior of his imposing mausoleum, before continuing to the Ho Chi Minh Quarter to glimpse his humble stilt house and the small but iconic One Pillar Pago... Begin your morning city tour and learn about ‘Uncle Ho’, Ho Chi Minh, regarded as the father of modern Vietnam. Admire the exterior of his imposing mausoleum, before continuing to the Ho Chi Minh Quarter to glimpse his humble stilt house and the small but iconic One Pillar Pagoda.Bid farewell to Hanoi and transfer to airport to board your included flight to Siem Reap. Sous Sdei and welcome to Cambodia. In Siem Reap, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for your included three-night stay and later, meet your local Cambodian guide. Read More

Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a vibrant gateway to the breathtaking Angkor Wat temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most iconic archaeological treasures. Beyond the awe-inspiring ruins, the town boasts a lively atmosphere filled with bustling markets, exquisite dining o... Siem Reap is a vibrant gateway to the breathtaking Angkor Wat temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most iconic archaeological treasures. Beyond the awe-inspiring ruins, the town boasts a lively atmosphere filled with bustling markets, exquisite dining options, and a thriving arts scene. Visitors can explore the enchanting night markets, experience traditional Apsara dance performances, and indulge in delicious Khmer cuisine. With its unique blend of history, culture, and modern charm, Siem Reap offers an unforgettable experience that draws travellers from around the globe. Read More

Siem Reap

Today, start with a visit to Angkor Thom, not a single temple such as the historic sites it neighbours, but rather one of the most remarkable royal cities of the Angkor Period and an architectural wonder. As the last capital of the Khmer Empire, it was a fortified city, home to priests, of... Today, start with a visit to Angkor Thom, not a single temple such as the historic sites it neighbours, but rather one of the most remarkable royal cities of the Angkor Period and an architectural wonder. As the last capital of the Khmer Empire, it was a fortified city, home to priests, officials of the palace, military and buildings for administering the kingdom. Afterwards, visit the sacred Temple of Ta Prohm. In an incredible standoff between human creation and nature, the jungle's root systems have reclaimed this spiritual location now enshrouded in wild vegetation. The backdrop to many Hollywood scenes, the incredible Ta Prohm is both a cinematic and contemplative location. This afternoon is free time to visit the markets or try a DiscoverMORE tour.This evening as part of your EmeraldPLUS programme, attend Phare, The Cambodian Circus, where a combination of acrobatics, music and dance tell a uniquely Cambodian story.EmeraldPLUSPhare Cambodian Circus performance.Included ExcursionVisit to Angkor ThomIncluded ExcursionVisit to Ta Prohm TempleDiscoverMOREVespa tour of Siem Reap (extra expense)DiscoverMOREEvening – Sunset Drinks Gondola Boat at Bayon (extra expense)DiscoverMOREEvening - Cambodian Street Food Discovery Tour (extra expense)DiscoverMOREEvening – Local Fare at Phare Circus (extra expense) Read More

Siem Reap

Rise early and witness the sunrise over Angkor Wat. Afterwards walk through this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site known for its elaborate decorations and intricate carvings throughout. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Siem Reap, or join a DiscoverMORE excursion. Later, as part o... Rise early and witness the sunrise over Angkor Wat. Afterwards walk through this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site known for its elaborate decorations and intricate carvings throughout. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Siem Reap, or join a DiscoverMORE excursion. Later, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, enjoy an immersive evening and highlight dinner at Satcha Handicraft Centre, accompanied by an Apsara dance performance.EmeraldPLUSApsara dance performance and dinner showIncluded ExcursionSunrise visit to Angkor WatDiscoverMORESiem Reap Countryside by Vespa (extra expense)DiscoverMOREBanteay Srei Temple and APOPO (extra expense)DiscoverMORETonlé Sap (extra expense, July to February)DiscoverMOREKhmer Cooking Class (extra expense)DiscoverMORESenteurs d’Angkor Workshop (extra expense) Read More

Siem Reap

Today, leave Siem Reap and venture to the town of Prek K’Dam to embark your Emerald Cruises award-winning Star-Ship. En route, stop in Kampong Kdei and see the impressive Angkor Bridge, before having lunch at a local restaurant. On arrival, you’ll be welcomed by your captain an... Today, leave Siem Reap and venture to the town of Prek K’Dam to embark your Emerald Cruises award-winning Star-Ship. En route, stop in Kampong Kdei and see the impressive Angkor Bridge, before having lunch at a local restaurant. On arrival, you’ll be welcomed by your captain and crew. Later, set sail up the Tonle River to Kampong Tralach whilst you enjoy your first dinner on board with your fellow guests. Read More

Prek Kdam

Prek Kdam is a quaint riverside village located on the banks of the Tonle Sap River, known for its vibrant boat culture and picturesque landscapes. As a key transport hub for goods and passengers travelling to and from the bustling capital, Phnom Penh, the village offers visitors a glimpse... Prek Kdam is a quaint riverside village located on the banks of the Tonle Sap River, known for its vibrant boat culture and picturesque landscapes. As a key transport hub for goods and passengers travelling to and from the bustling capital, Phnom Penh, the village offers visitors a glimpse into daily Cambodian life. Strolling along the riverfront, you’ll encounter local fishermen, bustling markets, and charming wooden houses. The area is also home to beautiful pagodas and lush greenery, making it a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the city. Prek Kdam is a delightful destination where one can experience the serene rhythm of rural Cambodian life. Read More

Mekong River Vietnam/Cambodia

Kampong Tralach

Begin the day with an Ox Cart ride in Kampong Tralach to a local temple before driving to Oudong. Oudong was Cambodia’s former royal capital until it relocated to Phnom Penh in 1866. In Oudong Monastery’s main temple, receive a traditional Buddhist blessing from the resident mo... Begin the day with an Ox Cart ride in Kampong Tralach to a local temple before driving to Oudong. Oudong was Cambodia’s former royal capital until it relocated to Phnom Penh in 1866. In Oudong Monastery’s main temple, receive a traditional Buddhist blessing from the resident monks, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience.Return to Emerald Harmony and sail to Phnom Penh. Spend the afternoon at leisure, either experiencing one of our DiscoverMORE excursions, visiting the Central Market, or relaxing on board. After dinner, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, enjoy Phnom Penh by night on a remork (local Tuk-Tuk) tour.EmeraldPLUSA traditional Buddhist Monk blessingEmeraldPLUSPhnom Penh by night on a remork (Tuk-Tuk) tourDiscoverMOREA silk farm tour at Koh Oknha Tei (extra expense)DiscoverMORECraft Beer Adventure by remork (extra expense)DiscoverMORESamai Distillery (extra expense) Read More

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s busy capital, sits at the junction of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. It was a hub for both the Khmer Empire and French colonialists. On its walkable riverfront, lined with parks, restaurants and bars, are the ornate Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Muse... Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s busy capital, sits at the junction of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. It was a hub for both the Khmer Empire and French colonialists. On its walkable riverfront, lined with parks, restaurants and bars, are the ornate Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, displaying artifacts from around the country. At the city’s heart is the massive, art deco Central Market. Read More

Oudong

Oudong, once the royal capital of Cambodia, is a historical gem nestled about 40 kilometres north of Phnom Penh. This serene town is known for its impressive temples and stupa-covered hills, offering a glimpse into the country’s royal heritage. Visitors can explore the ancient capita... Oudong, once the royal capital of Cambodia, is a historical gem nestled about 40 kilometres north of Phnom Penh. This serene town is known for its impressive temples and stupa-covered hills, offering a glimpse into the country’s royal heritage. Visitors can explore the ancient capital’s stunning pagodas, including the prominent Wat Udong, which boasts beautiful architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The area is rich in history, with many archaeological sites that reflect the legacy of the Khmer Empire. With its tranquil atmosphere and cultural significance, Oudong is a captivating destination for those looking to delve deeper into Cambodia’s past. Read More

Phnom Penh

This morning, learn more about the Khmer Rouge and the darkest days of Cambodia’s history. A short drive will take you to the Killing Fields at Choeung Ek, where you’ll be able to stroll through the fields, visit the memorial and understand more about the country’s sombre... This morning, learn more about the Khmer Rouge and the darkest days of Cambodia’s history. A short drive will take you to the Killing Fields at Choeung Ek, where you’ll be able to stroll through the fields, visit the memorial and understand more about the country’s sombre chapter. Afterwards, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (known as ‘S-21’), a former school converted to the Khmer Rouge’s main prison and torture headquarters. Back on board, savour a Cambodian Street Fair lunch, before visiting the majestic Royal Palace, with its French-inspired gardens. This evening, for your EmeraldPLUS experience, enjoy a cultural performance by the Cambodian Student and Children’s Organisation, before sailing for the border.EmeraldPLUSCultural Performance by the Cambodian Student and Children’s OrganisationIncluded ExcursionKilling Fields at Choeung Ek and Tuol Sleng Genocide MuseumIncluded ExcursionA visit to the Royal Palace Read More

Crossing Cambodia Border

Today, you’ll cross the border into Vietnam and sail on to Tan Chau. Relax on board, or join our DiscoverMORE excursion to Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, before returning for a late lunch on board.This afternoon, embark on a sampan to Evergreen Island for a stroll through a local village, re... Today, you’ll cross the border into Vietnam and sail on to Tan Chau. Relax on board, or join our DiscoverMORE excursion to Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, before returning for a late lunch on board.This afternoon, embark on a sampan to Evergreen Island for a stroll through a local village, revealing the lives of the local farming community. Reboard your sampan to travel back to Tan Chau and as part of our EmeraldPLUS, programme, visit the recently renovated Cao Dai temple. The religion of Cao Dai is a syncretic, monotheistic religion established in southern Vietnam in the city of Tây Ninh in 1926. Here, you will learn more about the mix of ideas that form the basis of this fascinating religion. Afterwards ride in a Xe Loi (local form of cyclo) from the temple back to your sampan before returning to Emerald Harmony where, later this evening as part of our EmeraldPLUS, programme, you’ll be delighted by a traditional Lion Dance performance on board.EmeraldPLUSA visit to a local Cao Dai Temple and Xe Loi rideEmeraldPLUSA Lion Dance performance on boardIncluded ExcursionA visit to Evergreen IslandDiscoverMOREA visit to Tra Su Bird Sanctuary (extra expense) Read More

Tân Châu

Tân Châu, a charming town located along the banks of the Mekong River, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Known for its traditional wooden houses and vibrant markets, Tân Châu provides visitors with an authentic glimpse into local life. T... Tân Châu, a charming town located along the banks of the Mekong River, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Known for its traditional wooden houses and vibrant markets, Tân Châu provides visitors with an authentic glimpse into local life. The town is famous for its floating markets, where traders sell fresh fruits and handmade goods from their boats, creating a lively and colourful atmosphere. Nearby, visitors can explore lush orchards and scenic river landscapes, ideal for leisurely boat trips and cycling adventures. With its warm hospitality and tranquil surroundings, Tân Châu is a delightful destination for those seeking to experience the heart of the Mekong Delta. Read More

Giêng Island

Known as ‘Mango Island,’ Cu Lao Gieng is a small, scenic island that is untouched by tourism located along the upper Mekong River. Travel by local motorcycle rickshaw through the island’s villages to visit families who work in a variety of local industries, including mang... Known as ‘Mango Island,’ Cu Lao Gieng is a small, scenic island that is untouched by tourism located along the upper Mekong River. Travel by local motorcycle rickshaw through the island’s villages to visit families who work in a variety of local industries, including mango farming, boat construction and temple incense sticks.Return to Emerald Harmony by sampan and sail to My An Hung Island. Recognised as a cultural and historical destination, this small rural village specialises in cultivating red-hot chilli and peppers. As part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, listen to local folk singing, wander through coconut farms and immerse yourself in traditional village life.EmeraldPLUSListen to some local folk singing in My An HungIncluded ExcursionSee the local industries in Gieng IslandIncluded ExcursionA visit to My An Hung village and its Monkey Bridge Read More

My An Hung

Mỹ An Hưng is a quaint village nestled in the Mekong Delta, where life unfolds at a gentle pace. Surrounded by lush greenery and winding waterways, the village offers a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Visitors can explore local markets filled with fresh produce and handcrafted go... Mỹ An Hưng is a quaint village nestled in the Mekong Delta, where life unfolds at a gentle pace. Surrounded by lush greenery and winding waterways, the village offers a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Visitors can explore local markets filled with fresh produce and handcrafted goods, immersing themselves in the authentic charm of rural Vietnamese life. The stunning landscapes and rich agricultural heritage create a picturesque setting, while the warm hospitality of the locals enhances the experience. For those seeking an escape from the everyday hustle, Mỹ An Hưng is a delightful destination full of tranquility and charm. Read More

Sa Déc

Take a short ride on a sampan to Sa Ðéc, a Mekong Delta hidden gem. Enjoy a walking tour around town with a stop at the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, who inspired Marguerite Duras’ celebrated novel, L’Amant, and a stroll through Sa Ðéc’s bustling central market... Take a short ride on a sampan to Sa Ðéc, a Mekong Delta hidden gem. Enjoy a walking tour around town with a stop at the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, who inspired Marguerite Duras’ celebrated novel, L’Amant, and a stroll through Sa Ðéc’s bustling central market. Return to Emerald Harmony by sampan for lunch, while cruising to Cái Bè.Upon arrival, travel via sampan to Tan Phong, a small island located nearby, rich in alluvial soil suitable for cultivating tropical fruit orchards year-round. At this established ecotourism destination, try a hands-on experience at a workshop specialising in weaving water hyacinth into artistic crafts. Board a motorised buggy for a ride through fruit orchards, stopping to sample tropical fruits. Reboard the sampan and cruise back to Cái Bè, discovering local cottage industries where families produce rice-paper and sweets from pop-corn, pop-rice and coconuts. Return to Emerald Harmony.Included ExcursionA visit to the bustling Sa Dec Markets and the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy LeIncluded ExcursionAn excursion to the local industries of Cai Be Read More

Cái Bè

Cái Bè, nestled in the picturesque Mekong Delta, is a vibrant town renowned for its lively floating markets and scenic waterways. The Cái Bè Floating Market is a highlight, where local farmers sell fresh produce and handcrafted goods directly from their boats, o... Cái Bè, nestled in the picturesque Mekong Delta, is a vibrant town renowned for its lively floating markets and scenic waterways. The Cái Bè Floating Market is a highlight, where local farmers sell fresh produce and handcrafted goods directly from their boats, offering visitors an authentic taste of daily life in the delta. Surrounding the town are lush orchards and tranquil rice paddies, perfect for cycling and exploring the serene countryside. With its rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, Cái Bè invites travellers to experience the enchanting rhythms of rural Vietnam, making it a delightful stop on any Mekong Delta adventure. Read More

My Tho

After sailing from My Tho, you’ll leave the Mekong Delta and enter the Cho Gao canal, considered one of Vietnam’s major arterial canals that connects Tien Giang Province with Ho Chi Minh City. Today, you’ll be fascinated watching the heavy commercial traffic navigating th... After sailing from My Tho, you’ll leave the Mekong Delta and enter the Cho Gao canal, considered one of Vietnam’s major arterial canals that connects Tien Giang Province with Ho Chi Minh City. Today, you’ll be fascinated watching the heavy commercial traffic navigating this important waterway, where upwards of 1,800 vessels transit each day. Relax on board, taking in the everchanging vistas of mangroves, cargo barges and local fishing boats. Tonight, you’ll dock in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, where you can admire the city lights; due to Vietnamese customs regulations, you'll not be permitted to venture ashore. Read More

Ho Chi Minh City

Romantically referred to by the French as the Pearl of the Orient, Ho Chi Minh City today is a super-charged city of sensory overload. Motorbikes zoom day and night along the wide boulevards, through the narrow back alleys and past vendors pushing handcarts hawking goods of all description... Romantically referred to by the French as the Pearl of the Orient, Ho Chi Minh City today is a super-charged city of sensory overload. Motorbikes zoom day and night along the wide boulevards, through the narrow back alleys and past vendors pushing handcarts hawking goods of all descriptions. Still called Saigon by most residents, this is Vietnam's largest city and the engine driving the country's current economic resurgence, but despite its frenetic pace, it's a friendlier place than Hanoi and locals will tell you the food—simple, tasty, and incorporating many fresh herbs—is infinitely better than in the capital.This is a city full of surprises. The madness of the city's traffic—witness the oddball things that are transported on the back of motorcycles—is countered by tranquil pagodas, peaceful parks, quirky coffee shops, and whole neighborhoods hidden down tiny alleyways, although some of these quiet spots can be difficult to track down. Life in Ho Chi Minh City is lived in public: on the back of motorcycles, on the sidewalks, and in the parks. Even when its residents are at home, they're still on display. With many living rooms opening onto the street, grandmothers napping, babies being rocked, and food being prepared, are all in full view of passersby.Icons of the past endure in the midst of the city’s headlong rush into capitalism. The Hotel Continental, immortalized in Graham Greene's The Quiet American, continues to stand on the corner of old Indochina's most famous thoroughfare, the rue Catinat, known to American G.I.s during the Vietnam War as Tu Do (Freedom) Street and renamed Dong Khoi (Uprising) Street by the Communists. The city still has its ornate opera house and its old French city hall, the Hôtel de Ville. The broad colonial boulevards leading to the Saigon River and the gracious stucco villas are other remnants of the French colonial presence. Grisly reminders of the more recent past can be seen at the city's war-related museums. Residents, however, prefer to look forward rather than back and are often perplexed by tourists' fascination with a war that ended 40 years ago.The Chinese influence on the country is still very much in evidence in the Cholon district, the city's Chinatown, but the modern office towers and international hotels that mark the skyline symbolize Vietnam's fixation on the future. Read More

Ho Chi Minh City

After disembarkation, drive away from Ho Chi Minh City port to Cu Chi Tunnels, watching the city skyline fade into the distance as the road winds through rice paddies, villages and scenes typical to southern Vietnam. Spend a couple of hours walking around Cu Chi’s rugged grounds with... After disembarkation, drive away from Ho Chi Minh City port to Cu Chi Tunnels, watching the city skyline fade into the distance as the road winds through rice paddies, villages and scenes typical to southern Vietnam. Spend a couple of hours walking around Cu Chi’s rugged grounds with a local guide. Upon your return, enjoy a traditional Pho (noodle soup) lunch then check in to your hotel for your included two-night stay. Tonight join a DiscoverMORE excursion.Included ExcursionCu Chi TunnelsDiscoverMOREAn evening Saigon Street Food walking tour (extra expense)DiscoverMOREOne Night in Saigon (extra expense) Read More

Ho Chi Minh City

Enjoy a guided tour of Ho Chi Minh City, starting with a visit to the city’s most iconic building, the Reunification, or Independence Palace. Formerly the South Vietnamese Presidential Palace, images of the building were seen around the world on 30 April 1975 when tanks stormed the g... Enjoy a guided tour of Ho Chi Minh City, starting with a visit to the city’s most iconic building, the Reunification, or Independence Palace. Formerly the South Vietnamese Presidential Palace, images of the building were seen around the world on 30 April 1975 when tanks stormed the gates as Saigon fell to the North Vietnamese. Then, stroll through Ho Chi Minh City’s colonial quarter, walking past scenes of everyday life on the way. Admire the beautiful architecture of the Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral and the old Saigon Post Office and listen to the stories about the glory days of French Indochina and how that era continues to influence aspects of modern Vietnamese culture. Tonight, enjoy your farewell dinner with your fellow guests.Included ExcursionAn orientation tour of Ho Chi Minh City Read More

Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast this morning, you will be transferred to the Ho Chi Minh City airport to catch your onward or homebound flight.This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated abov... After breakfast this morning, you will be transferred to the Ho Chi Minh City airport to catch your onward or homebound flight.This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Read More