Along the Mekong: A 16-Day Southeast Asian Journey

Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok

Arrive into the city of angels, Bangkok airport. As you depart the plane our team wait to greet you and assist you through the airport. Taking care of you and fast-tracking you through the passport procedures, assisting when needed with your luggage before delivering you to your private transfer and onwards to the hotel.

Meals Included: None
Accommodation: The Siam Bangkok – Siam Suite

Day 2: Bangkok

The day is free at your leisure.

Tonight, meet your guide at your hotel and hop aboard your tuk-tuk, a fun and commonly used open-air vehicle that easily accommodates two passengers. Your tour takes place after the temperature drops, bypassing heavily trafficked routes. Hop on and off the tuk tuk as you explore the city with your guide. Your guide provides an overview of Thailand’s capital and insights into local life as you take in the beauty of Bangkok by night and explore markets, temples and its varied cuisine. Stop at famous temples such as Wat Pho to admire its golden pagodas lit up at night and walk through the famous 24-hour flower market, where vivid colours are in full bloom under the fluorescent lights. At nightfall, Bangkok comes alive with food vendors, and you’ll stop to sample some of the best food in the city before finishing with a delicious dessert at a mystery stop.

Your first visit is to Chinatown, one of Bangkok’s most authentic and thriving districts, where it seems time has stood still. The streets here are lined with incredible food stalls and charcoal stoves full of mouth-watering foods. Explore on foot Pak Khlong Talat, Bangkok’s fascinating flower market. This is one of the world’s biggest flower markets, and you’re sure to be captivated by the kaleidoscope of smells and colours from the millions of flowers and vegetables for sale here. Back on the Tuk Tuk, you sweep through the small alleys and historic roads while they’re lit up at night. Pass by and enjoy great views of Metal Castle, Democracy Monument, Marble Temple, and Giant Swing. The Thai capital really takes on a new dimension after dark, and Wat Pho at night is something totally different and much more enjoyable in contrast to the overcrowded venues in the daytime. Visiting at night gives it an enchanting vibe, and you’ll be amazed by the picturesque pagodas and stupas graciously lit up. Before you end the night, you will be able to enjoy a drink at a rooftop bar.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner (food tour)
Accommodation: The Siam Bangkok – Siam Suite

Day 3: Bangkok

Free day to relax and explore your surroundings at your leisure.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: The Siam Bangkok – Siam Suite

Day 4: Bangkok – Siem Reap

We collect you from the hotel at the pre-arranged time as you bid farewell to Bangkok. Your driver will deliver you to airport for your flight to Siem Reap.

Upon arrival in Siem Reap, after going through immigration/custom formalities and collecting your luggage, you will be welcomed to Cambodia by your guide at the exit hall, where you will then be transferred to your hotel for check-in.

In the evening, your guide will take you out for an evening street food tour by Vespa. Ride pillion along the beautiful Siem Reap Riverside to an evening market in order to gain an insight into fresh Cambodian ingredients. Cruise through the busy streets of this ancient heritage town as you are introduced to many aspects of Khmer cuisine – from street markets to food stalls, from exotic fruits to fried bugs (yes, bugs!), to high end fusion drinks and classic Khmer dishes.

This is a unique tour that embraces the hustle and bustle of street markets, vendors and the accompanying sights, smells, and sounds. We also meet local families making merry, enjoying BBQ meats, shopping for clothes and playing games at the local fun fair. It’s a fun and varied tour that embodies the fun-loving nature of the wonderful people of Cambodia! All food and drinks are included on this acclaimed Siem Reap food tour so please, bring a healthy appetite!

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner (food tour)
Accommodation: Raffles Grand d’Angkor – State Room

Day 5: Siem Reap

Rising at the crack of dawn, we start our day at Angkor Wat. As the crowds return to their hotels, we venture into world’s largest religious building in order to enjoy its magnificence in peace and quiet.

Begin by unravelling the mysteries of the bas-reliefs that tell of tales from Hindu mythology and of the glories of the Khmer empire. Stretching for almost one kilometre, these intricate carvings are a candidate for the world’s longest unbroken piece of art. Continue to the upper levels of the inner sanctuary. The final steps to the upper terrace of Angkor are the steepest of all. Finally the pinnacle, the sacred heart of Angkor Wat, a blend of spirituality and symmetry so perfect that few moments will measure up.

After strolling the corridors of Angkor Wat, return to your hotel for breakfast.

After breakfast at your hotel, we continue to discover the magnificent temples of Angkor Thom with its vast walls, some 6m wide, 8m high and 13km in length containing many monuments. We begin by visiting the South Gate, flanked by demons and gods engaged in a tug of war to obtain the elixir of immortality. We continue to the Bayon, a temple mountain built by Jayavarman VII. It is situated in the centre of the city of Angkor Thom. It is a three-tiered pyramid with its entrance facing east. The central shrine is surrounded by 54 towers all crowned by gigantic faces. We also visit other important sites in this immense walled city, including the pyramid of Baphuon, Phimean Akas, and the royal viewing stands known as the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King.

After that, head over to the jungle-clad Ta Prohm. This temple was a monastery built by Jayavarman VII as a residence for his mother. Ta Prohm has been controversially left to the destructive power of the jungle by French archaeologists to demonstrate the awesome power of nature. It has been largely consumed by the jungle and as you climb through the dilapidated stone structures you see many giant trees growing out of the top of the temple itself.

If time permits, you could make a stop and take in the sunset at Angkor Wat or take the view over the hill top of Phnom Bakheng.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Raffles Grand d’Angkor – State Room

Day 6: Siem Reap – Mekong River

This morning, your driver will meet and transfer you to Heritage Line Jahan Cruise’s meeting lounge for your river cruise.

Siem Reap – Kampong Cham – Angkor Ban

Enjoy a second coffee this morning before the transfer departs to the moored vessel on the Mekong River. Upon boarding, our crew will guide you to your staterooms providing a short briefing on the cabin’s facilities. After spending some time to settle in, lunch awaits in the ship’s restaurant, followed by a welcome & safety briefing in the lobby by our cruise director.

As the afternoon unfolds, sailing with the flow of the Mekong River, you can enjoy time on the deck. The cruise director invites you to a little sunset event with canapés and prosecco, where one can socialise with other fellow passengers. After officially kicking off your journey, dinner is served. If you like, join the evening cinema in the climatised indoor lounge later.

Notes

• The water levels on the Lower Mekong in Cambodia vary seasonally. A low-water period typically happens between mid-November and end-August; the high-water period between end-August and mid-November (periods may alter). Cruise itineraries vary between both periods.
• Jahan cruise meeting point: Koulen Hotel, Mondul II Village, Oknha OumChhay St, Krong Siem Reap.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Heritage Line Jahan Cruise – Superior Cabin

Day 7: Mekong River

Angkor Ban – Prek Bangkong – Kampong Laeang

Early risers may like to join the daily offered Tai Chi session on the sun deck before breakfast. Today’s morning excursion let us explore the village of Angkor Ban.

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Angkor Ban features a monastery with an adjacent, enchanting local village. You’ll have the chance to meet monks during their morning class and engage in friendly conversations with the villagers. As we stroll through the village, we understand the local way of life in various aspects, collecting wonderful memories of Cambodia’s rustic lifestyle. The village offers great photographic moments whilst interacting with the local community.

Optional Morning Excursion: Cycling

Ship ‘The Jahan’ only, at extra cost, please enquire if interested.

Today’s cycling tour journey starts with a tranquil monk meeting, that sets the tone for the day. As you cycle through verdant seasonal vegetable fields, picturesque old local houses dot the landscape, offering glimpses into Cambodia’s heritage. Witness skilled blacksmiths at work to understand more about traditional craftsmanship. Conclude your adventure with a delightful pause, sipping on ice-cold local beer or indulging in the refreshing taste of freshly pressed sugar cane juice.

Distance: 10 km / Duration: approx. 120 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path

We are boarding our luxury ship again sailing now downstream again towards Phnom Penh. Before we arrive at Cambodia’s capital, we halt at a small silk weaving community.

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At the confluence of the Tonle and Mekong Rivers lies the small village of Prek Bangkong, known for its silk weaving community. This village was also the former residence of the Royal family before they moved to the Royal Palace. However, the real stars in this area today are the silk weavers, artisans who craft silk from the very beginning. We will have the opportunity to closely observe and learn about this intricate silk production process. We conclude this excursion by visiting the heritage house of H.E. Sam-El, once a famous architect for the royal family.

Optional Afternoon Excursion: Cycling

Ship ‘The Jahan’ only, at extra cost, please enquire if interested.

Our cycling tour today takes us to the wonderful former royal palace of “Lavea Em” (1601-1618). Pedal at ease through picturesque landscapes, punctuated by captivating stops at historic pagodas, vibrant silk weaving workshops, and bustling local markets. Indulge in a delightful tea break at the residence of H.E. Sam-El, adding a touch of elegance to your cycling adventure.

Distance: 14 km / Duration: approx. 120 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path

The rest of the day is a joyful sailing, passing the skyline of Phnom Penh and heading into the small Tonle River northbound. Enjoy a multi-course menu for dinner and the nightly entertaining evening cinema offered afterwards in the lounge. We moor midstream in the Tonle River.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Heritage Line Jahan Cruise – Superior Cabin

Day 8: Mekong River

Kampong Laeang – Kampong Tralach – Phnom Penh

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We are in the midst of the vast Tonle region, one of Cambodia’s amazing ecosystems. The tour this morning leads to Kampong Laeang, an unknown hamlet situated just across from the famous pottery town of Kampong Chhnang. Once ashore, we embark on tuk-tuks to travel the heart of rural Cambodian life. During this excursion, we’ll explore various locals, discover the art of pottery making, and visit a charming pre-Angkorian temple. From a vantage point, amazing panoramic views of the vast floodplains and lush rice fields (seasonal) can be enjoyed.

Optional Morning Excursion: Cycling

Ship ‘The Jahan’ only, at extra cost, please enquire if interested.

Upon disembarking, we hop on our bikes to embark on our local Khmer discovery. Our journey leads us through rice paddy fields and quaint villages where small businesses produce pottery or palm sugar. With flat terrain and mesmerizing rural landscapes, the pedal is easy-going, offering a captivating glimpse into local life unfolding before our eyes.

Distance: 17 km / Duration: approx. 90 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path

Back on the ship, lunch can be enjoyed along with spectacular views of the Tonle River region, as the ship sails south to Kampong Tralach. An afternoon tea is served at the bar before we continue with another excursion.

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Embark on an exciting outing to discover another part of the rural Cambodian countryside. Our ox-pulled cart will transport us along the riverside and down winding back roads, flanked by picturesque rice paddies, until we arrive at a small village. Here, we will have the opportunity to learn about a local NGO school and library project. Alternatively, you can choose to visit the nearby ancient 300-year-old temple and Buddha shrine.

Optional Afternoon Excursion: Cycling

Ship ‘The Jahan’ only, at extra cost, please enquire if interested.

Experience another day in the heartland of Cambodia with a biking tour through the picturesque Tonle Region. Pedal through captivating landscapes, encountering treasures like the former royal palace of ‘Lungvek’ and the venerable Buddha Jade Temple (1560) and simply enjoy the timeless rhythms of local life as you witness skilled fishermen casting their nets in the tranquil waters of the Tonle.

Distance: 14 km / Duration: approx. 120 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path

The ship sets sail again for some more miles down the Tonle River before reaching Phnom Penh. We moor mid-stream with views of the skyline of this vibrant city.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Heritage Line Jayavarman – Superior Cabin

Day 9: Mekong River – Phnom Penh

Welcome to Phnom Penh, a city once renowned as the “Paris of the East.” Despite its rapid development, it has retained much of its rustic charm and elegance. Phnom Penh is a remarkable city with a history and culture that spans centuries, still palpable at every street corner.

Our full-day sightseeing tour begins right after breakfast, allowing us to explore the city’s highlights. We’ll start with a cyclo ride, meandering through the town, and then visit historic places such as the palace and the silver pagoda. Our journey takes us to the “S21” prison, a poignant and dark chapter in Cambodia’s history during the Khmer Rouge regime of the 1970s. Afterward, we’ll pause for a delightful lunch in town before continuing to immerse within the Khmer culture. This afternoon starts with the visit of the Champey academy of arts, a school dedicated to preserve traditional arts. Observe young dancers training in the intricate Apsara dance and take the opportunity to learn basic “Kbach” techniques under their guidance. Alternatively, you can interact with students or simply witness traditional paintings and drawings created by local youth. Conclude the day with a leisurely stroll through the city’s French Quarter, including the iconic Wat Phnom temple.

To cap off this eventful day, we’ll indulge in a delightful open-air barbecue and gala dinner accompanied by a classic Apsara dance performance. Afterward, feel free to explore the city at night, savouring Phnom Penh’s vibrant nightlife or taking in the lively river promenade.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Heritage Line Jahan Cruise – Superior Cabin

Day 10: Mekong River

Phnom Penh – Border Crossing – Gieng Island

Before bidding farewell to Phnom Penh, join a captivating testimony held in the lounge of the ship. Having endured the S21 imprisonment and later taking an active part in the Khmer Rouge tribunal, Mr. Sum Rithy continues to bear witness to a difficult chapter of Cambodia’s history. Guests have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to talk, question and discuss a living witness of this dark Cambodian era.

Once the ship departed, the rest of the day is at your own disposal. Switch into cruise mode and experience the relaxing cadence this mighty river emanates. The afternoon is perfect for spa, relaxation on a terrace deck, or private balcony kick-backs. Conjure up a spell to merge with the river and float into a state of mild bliss. A visit to the bridge might be a pleasant amusement, as the captain always has a little story to share about “his” river. Or, learn more about Khmer gastronomy: join a local culinary workshop held by our head chef.

As you sip drinks and nibble on treats during afternoon tea, we approach the border and arrive in Vietnam. From here we continue the sailing into the heart of the bustling Mekong delta mooring near Gieng Island.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Heritage Line Jahan Cruise – Superior Cabin

Day 11: Mekong River

Gieng Island – My An Hung – Binh Thanh Island

After our morning Tai Chi session and a delightful breakfast, we embark on an exploration revealing a vibrant kaleidoscope of diverse activities bringing the Mekong Delta to life.

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Gieng Island, also known locally as Mango Island, is perfect to stroll through under the shade of flourishing mango groves that shape the island’s landscape. A visit to a small incense workshop introduces us to the careful process of crafting these fragrant sticks by hand. Another local highlight is a traditional boat-building workshop, where generations of families assemble wooden vessels that are essential to life along the river. Before departing, we surely are going to taste some of these delicious and freshly picked mangoes with a local tea in the courtyard of a century-old local home. This is the moment when we all understand the rhythms and resilience of life on the Mekong – so simple, so joyful.

Optional Morning Excursion: Cycling

Ship ‘The Jahan’ only, at extra cost, please enquire if interested.

The island’s flat terrain makes this ride so pleasurable and easy along lush green paths with many mango farms. Enjoy local Mekong Delta life at its best, left and right, with locals waving friendly. We ride along many fruit gardens and there is always something to stop and see on the way, like a traditional incense workshop or a local boat-building workshop.

Distance: 15 km / Duration: approx. 90 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path

After back onboard a siesta after lunch, our expert guides offer a presentation about life in the Mekong Delta as the ship continues to My An Hung in the Sa Dec province.

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My An Hung Village is a wonderful example of a real local village in the Mekong Delta where time stood still. We receive wonderful insights into the private household of a local family and visit the seasonal vegetable fields to understand what the farmers is currently cultivating. A Vietnamese tea tasting at a local family’s house is accompanied by a presentation of a variety of fruits that are grown near-by, freshly cut from the tree. An artistic group performs displays the traditional dragon dance, whilst we can snack on the “vitamins bombs”.

Back on board, the ship sails into the sunset towards the destination of the next day. A complimentary cocktail hour and alfresco snacks accompanied by music and dance vibes are offered to enjoy the blue hour before dinner is served.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Heritage Line Jahan Cruise – Superior Cabin

Day 12: Mekong River

Binh Thanh Island – Tan Phong Island – My Tho

Wake early to embrace the stunning dawn scenery, a time when the Delta’s inhabitants have already been active for hours. Energize yourself with our daily morning Tai Chi class before indulging in a lavish breakfast buffet. By local boat, we head out to one of the larger islands in the Mekong known as Binh Thanh.

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This island is home to several communities that sustain themselves by cultivating water hyacinths. Strolling through the village, you’ll gain profound insights into local life and witness the complete traditional mat-making process. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to meet a local elderly couple who have spent their entire lives on this island. They enjoy engaging in conversations with foreign visitors.

Optional Morning Excursion: Cycling

Ship ‘The Jahan’ only, at extra cost, please enquire if interested.

Once on the shore, the cycling discovery around the island begins with interesting stops at scenic backstreets, rice paddies, and some island’s distinctive houses offering great photo opportunities. The cycling tour leads to the village of Long Ta, which is famous for its scarf weaving. We return to the pier taking our tender boat back to the mother ship.

Distance: 7 km / Duration: approx. 60 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path

Default Afternoon Excursion

During a visit to a workshop in the town of Cai Be, we’ll have the opportunity to observe the production of rice paper, rice cookies, rice wine and coconut candies. This is a very interesting manual process involving manual labour and special production techniques. After the workshop, we are heading to Tan Phong Island, a smaller island in the middle of the vast Mekong. We are visiting a local family and their fruit garden, offering us various kinds of tropical fruits to taste. A buggy ride through the island gave us a glimpse of the local day-to-day life as it unfolds. We stop at another family’s house. They specialize in weaving water hyacinth plants into artistic crafts by hand.

Optional Afternoon Excursion: Cycling

Ship ‘The Jahan’ only, extra cost.

Cycle over the scenic Tan Phong Island along well-maintained and flat concrete paths winding through orchards of rambutan, longan, and jackfruit. At a local business, the family shows us how to make handicrafts from water hyacinths. The tour continues along a canal to a local temple for a refreshing break under a banyan tree before continuing the ride to a tropical fruit farmer’s home for a tasting.

Distance: 12 km / Duration: approx. 90 min / Terrain: flat on concrete path

Once everyone is back on board, the ship makes its final journey to My Tho, offering some little farewell party vibes along the way.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Heritage Line Jahan Cruise – Superior Cabin

Day 13: Mekong River – Ho Chi Minh City

Enjoy your last breakfast aboard your floating home. We disembark the ship after breakfast and take a bus transfer from My Tho to Saigon. It is only around 70 kilometres on the highway, and you arrive in Saigon by mid-morning. We hope you enjoyed this fascinating river cruise, just as our crew does every single time, take home enchanting memories and friendships and share the stories of this amazing river – the Mighty Mekong.

Arrive back in Saigon, your driver will be waiting and escort you to your hotel for check-in.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel des Arts Saigon – Deluxe DBL

Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City

This morning, you will enjoy a join-in trip exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels in an exciting way: accessing Cu Chi by shared boat instead of car and observing local life outside the city and alongside the river of Saigon. Embark on your speed boat from Ho Chi Minh City’s pier. Your guide will introduce you to life along the banks of the Saigon River as your boat gracefully slips through knots of floating water hyacinths on this scenic one-hour boat trip. As the city fades into the background, witness life along the river and the many new ‘weekend’ homes being built by the Saigonese. The cramped tunnels were central to a few of the war’s strategic operations, including the famous 1968 Tet Offensive, and they didn’t escape damage. American B52 bombers dropped hundreds of missiles leaving huge tell-tale craters behind. The tunnels also have “mantraps” – large, camouflaged holes dug deep into the ground that ensnared enemy soldiers by bamboo spikes. But don’t worry, you won’t step in one! You’ll also discover the remains of an American tank that was destroyed by a landmine which you can climb on for great photos. The Cu Chi experience can be emotionally draining for some visitors, but it offers fascinating windows into the hardship and traumas of war.

Enjoy a delicious traditional Vietnamese lunch by the river, consisting of authentic fried spring rolls, chicken and beef dishes and soup, before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

Return to your hotel, afternoon is free at your own leisure.

As you may know, Saigon is the largest and most vibrant city in Vietnam, home to over 10 million people and over 5 million scooters. The majority of Saigon residents commute by scooter or Vespa, and we would like to share with you an intriguing way to experience the city at night on a special vintage Vespa. This will be entertaining and will also transport you back to Saigon in 1950. In Saigon, are you trying to find anything special to do? Come on, join us!

First, you will be picked up from your hotel by an experienced driver in a vintage Vespa before being driven to our venue.

Then, we give you a tour of the city so you can see the city’s landmarks and narrow streets where locals go about their daily lives. We’d want to introduce you to some of our local favourite’s, such Vietnamese rice pancakes and spring rolls, at our first stop for dinner, a local eatery.

At the second stop, we invite you to enjoy delicious banana sticky rice from a local vendor. No table and chair to have a seat, we stand by the vendor, look how they make this sweet snack by enjoying their balanced and tasty food. Then, we continue our discovery of Saigon to local Seafood restaurant, another experience for you to taste the seafood with great ambience of the local. After that, along the Nhieu Loc canal, let’s chill with the fresh air, having a look at “Happy Road”, then stop at lovely local shop to savour Avocado ice cream – a trendy dessert.

The trip is not done yet, the fun things is still waiting for you after. Our last stop before gets back to the hotel will be a bar, where you can enjoy Live music performed by Vietnamese beautiful voices’ singers, now you can say you experience the Saigon Night Life.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (food tour)
Accommodation: Hotel des Arts Saigon – Deluxe DBL

Day 15: Ho Chi Minh City

Free day to relax and explore your surroundings at your leisure.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel des Arts Saigon – Deluxe DBL

Day 16: Ho Chi Minh City – Departure

At the appropriate time, your driver will meet and escort you to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your departure flight.

Meals Included: Breakfast