Indochina Grand Passage (14 days)

Day 1: First day of Indochina Grand Passage – Arrive in Hanoi

Upon arrival in Hanoi, as you depart the aircraft our team will be waiting to greet you and assist you through the airport. You will be fast-tracked through the passport procedures, assisted with your luggage when needed and then transferred to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is free to settle into your new surroundings.

With a premium position inside the Old Quarter of Hanoi a few steps to the famous Hoan Kiem Lake is where the Hanoi La Siesta Premium Hang Be sits. With fabulous attention to detail and exceptional service it is easy to see why this is one of the best luxury boutique hotels in Hanoi and why we recommend it so highly.

Meals included: None

Accommodation at: La Siesta Premium Hang Be – Deluxe Room 

Day 2: Hanoi

Pick up at 7:30 AM – In the morning, you will be greeted by your guide and driver at your hotel lobby to begin your adventure by jeep! On the first part of the trip, we expose you to the REAL HANOI. Visit the unknown parts of the city through the maze of back streets, tiny alleyways, local homes, schools and random markets experiencing where & how locals live, work and play.

On the second part of the trip, we pass by and stop at the must see places. Visit Ho Chi Minh mausoleum-the Mecca of the Vietnamese, The 1000 year-old Buddhist and Toasist temples of Tran Quoc, the Temple of Literature, the historical training track, the enchanting French Quarter, the hustling & bustling Old Quarter, the romantic lakes of Hoan Kiem and West Lake, the Hanoi Opera House and the famous Long Bien Bridge. 

On the third part of the trip, we also take you to peaceful & alluring villages around West lake and Truc Bach lake to enrich your experiences about the contrast in harmony of life between the city centre and the outskirts.

Enjoy a scrumptious lunch with lots of Vietnamese specialities at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel.

Pick up at 6:00 PM – The excursion begins at a stylish local Café with a beer cocktail and a delicious snack from one of the nearby nighttime vendors, before jumping on the back of the vintage Vespas. After weaving through the magical, busy back streets of the Old Quarter, you soon arrive at a lively local restaurant serving Bun Cha. This is the quintessential must taste Hanoian dish of rice noodles, grilled pork, and meatballs, with a side of ‘nem’ spring rolls. Simple but delicious.

It’s back riding through the narrow streets again, as you head toward your next foodie stop, a fascinating local joint, where you can try infused rice wine and a buffalo jerky appetizer. Continue on the night, heading out of the Old Quarter, taking in the sites of the Hanoi Flag Tower and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, riding towards the West Lake and Truc Bach area. There you try the local specialty of ‘pho cuon’ and learn the art of wrap ‘n’ roll, Vietnamese style, with these fresh and fragrant ingredients, and the ‘pho’ noodle!

Your next short ride on the Vespas takes you to your final port of call, next to the superb Opera House. The halcyon days of the 1930’s may be over; however, this Jazz Club will wow you with a truly unique blend of styles – 30’s style Jazz & traditional Vietnamese music!

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (food tour)

Accommodation at: La Siesta Premium Hang Be – Deluxe Room 

Day 3: Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh City

Pick up at 10:00 AM – your driver will escort you to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Saigon, after collecting your luggage, you will be warmly welcomed by your driver at the exit hall and transferred to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is free to settle into your new surroundings. 

Take a trip back in time to the bygone era of French Indochina. Hotel des Arts Saigon fuses this chic classical style with modern luxuries and all the creature comforts you would expect at a high end city hotel. Located just a few minutes walk from the historical landmarks of Ho Chi Minh City, Hotel Des Arts is an oasis in the heart of a bustling metropolis. The roof top pool and adjacent lounge bar is an incredibly relaxing space, far removed from the chaotic streets below. Guests can enjoy Western and Vietnamese cuisine at Hotel des Arts two vibrant restaurants. In addition the art-cafe is a glamorous place to enjoy a light lunch or afternoon tea.

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation at: Hotel des Arts Saigon – Deluxe DBL

Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City

Pick up at 7:15 AM – 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.

Arrive back at the pier, you will be met by your guide who will escort you out to explore Saigon as a local as you expertly driven on a vintage vespa through the streets. Explore the streets soaking up the atmosphere as you discover fresh flower markets and seeing the many historic sights before you enter the Chinese district. The Chinese occupied Vietnam and you can see their influence all around, with ancient Buddhist temples, hidden pagodas and other local stores still trading to this day. From here head back into the very heart of the city seeing the more modern sights from the French era and world renowned architecture such as the Saigon Post Office and the Notre Dame Cathedral. We conclude the day at the Independence Palace where modern day Vietnam all began. Today you will have seen, heard and experienced so much. As we escort you home you will no doubt be recounting so many memorable moments and will have a much deeper understanding of what Saigon is all about.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation at: Hotel des Arts Saigon – Deluxe DBL

Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City – Phnom Penh

Pick up at 10:00 AM – your driver will meet and escort you to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your flight to Phnom Penh.

Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, after going through immigration/custom formalities and collecting your baggage, 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. The remainder of the day is free to settle into your new surroundings.

This lovingly restored French colonial villa located right the heart of Phnom Penh center, just a short walk to the Royal Palace and riverside making it a fine choice for your temporary home whilst discovering the city. Palace Gate Hotel offers a range of carefully designed rooms. Enjoy your time out by the pool, sip cocktails at its rooftop bar surrounded by the greenery of its unique organic herb and vegetable garden which supplies its restaurant with fresh ingredients for your meals.

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation at: Palace Gate Hotel & Resort – Aspara Deluxe

Day 6: Phnom Penh

Pick up at 8:00 AM – Early this morning, your guide will meet you at your hotel and transfer you by private van to the local ferry near Chhroy Chanvar district. A short crossing across the Mekong River, we’ll take to bikes on the dusty banks of Koh Dach and explore the island’s authenticities.

The small island of Koh Dach in the middle of Mekong River, preserves the rich traditions of authentic Cambodian culture: village women weave delicate silks by hand, while, just down orchard lane, monks wearing brilliant saffron robes collect morning alms.

Stops along the ride may include visits to a local school, pagodas, and the best spot to take photos of Phnom Penh City. It is a gentle ride of 30km and suitable for any level.

Notes: depending on recent rainfall, you might expect the island’s dirt roads to be bumpy.

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation at: Palace Gate Hotel & Resort – Aspara Deluxe

Day 7: Phnom Penh – Mekong Delta

Embarkation time at 8:00 AM – Jahan staff offers a friendly welcome aboard in the morning hours as you check-in into your luxurious “home” for the next few days.

Welcome to Phnom Penh – the city once named Paris of the East. Despite its rapid development, it has retained a lot of its rustic charm and elegance. It is an amazing town with centuries of incredible history and culture which can still be felt at many street corners. We start with a full sight-seeing tour right after breakfast. By bus, we visit the Killing Fields outside the city and afterwards the centrally located prison “S21”. Both historic sites display the sad and cruel chapter of the country’s history when the Khmer Rouge ruled Cambodia with terror and oppression. Those places have not changed much since this horrific time back in the early seventies and it can be quite heart-breaking. Alternatively, you may explore the city on your own in the morning before re-joining the group.

Have a lunch at a well-renowned restaurant in town your exploration of Phnom Penh continues with the cultural highlights of the city’s heritage. The golden edifice of the Royal Palace with its Silver Pagoda and the exceptional Khmer crafts at the National Museum top the list of the city’s must-sees. The day trip ends with a “cyclo” ride along the bustling streets of downtown Phnom Penh and back to the ship.

In the early evening, the lounge is set up for an eye- and ear-catching lecture about modern Cambodian history, held by local expert, Mr Jean-Michel, professor from the Royal University of Phnom Penh.

Take some rest or join fellow passengers at the bar for refreshing drinks. Today’s evening is a special one: let us invite you to a wonderful open air gala featuring a barbecue dinner feast. The dinner is accompanied by a classic Apsara dance performance along with other folklore dances.

As the evening unwinds, enjoy your supper with a good glass of wine and marvel at the skyline of Phnom Penh and the calming flow of the Tonle River.

Named after the celebrated 16th century Indian emperor, The Jahan evokes the colonial period of India’s past with artworks and furnishings sourced from India. Twenty six luxurious and spacious staterooms all feature private balconies. The atmospheric East India Club & Lounge resembles an old British-Indian Gentlemen’s Club, while the adjacent sun deck and Jacuzzi pool are a few of the designer vessel’s many resort-like facilities.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation at: Heritage Line Jahan Cruise – Deluxe Cabin

Day 8: Mekong Delta

Before the sun peeks over the horizon, set sail towards Kampong Tralach on the Tonle River and glides through leafy swaths of this jungle-like landscape.

Reach Kampong Tralach, where laughing children wave enthusiastically at your arrival and traditional ox carts are still a common means of transportation. Your ox-powered vehicle takes you on a journey along the riverside and through back roads lined with rice-paddy fields until you arrive at a tiny village. Beginning a few short years ago, local underprivileged children have had the opportunity to receive an education at the “Green School”, a local project supported by Heritage Line. The students, who are dressed in green shirts, are always happy to meet guests every week as the principal gives an introduction to the students and the school.

As you sail upstream, lunch is served and afterwards the crew displays a variety of traditional Khmer fashion locals wear on special occasions.

Later in the day, the ship cruises along the narrow Tonle River towards the most fascinating cruising spot in Cambodia, Kampong Chhnang’s “water world”, where everything is balanced on sticks in water-rich soil. Take a local boat to the shore and hop on a mini bus to reach a nearby, unique rural village to explore the village’s specialties – Khmer style pottery and the process of making of palm sugar from the Cambodian “skor t’not” palm tree.

Drive back to the shore and take the local boat back to the ship. In this area along the Tonle River local communities used to live along the shores on floating houses. Their inhabitants were Vietnamese descendants who were expelled by the Khmer Rouge and returned after the ruling party was overthrown in 1979. 

Once back on board, relax until dinner is served and take in the beautiful countryside and its gentle evening sounds.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation at: Heritage Line Jahan Cruise – Deluxe Cabin

Day 9: Mekong Delta

In the early morning, sail from the lower Tonle River towards the Mekong passing their confluence at Phnom Penh. Arrive at the island of Koh Oknha Tey, which lies in the middle of the Mekong and owes its fame to manufacturing high-class silk products. Go sightseeing along the island’s roads a bit via tuk tuk before arriving at the village’s workshops and witnessing the curious process of making silk, starting from a tiny silkworm larva to cocoon, then dyeing, spinning and weaving the fibres into high-quality Cambodian silk.

Before lunch, an expert guide holds a presentation about the geography of the Mekong River and Tonle Lake along with the unique attributes of the area. Afterwards, a monks’ blessing ceremony delivers spirits and wishes for health and prosperity for all.

The ship sails towards the small Angkor Ban village up in the Mekong River. The village is famous for its unspoiled community and beautiful, traditional houses.

Continue cruising while dinner is served and the boat finds its overnight spot at the riverbank of Kampong Cham.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation at: Heritage Line Jahan Cruise – Deluxe Cabin

Day 10: Mekong Delta

After a sumptuous breakfast, leave the ship for the enchanting pre-Angkorian temple of Wat Hanchey. This small complex sits on a hilltop with breath-taking views over the Mekong. Many young, novice monks live on the compound of Wat Hanchey, and we have the chance to observe a bit of their daily lives.

After returning to the ship and partaking in lunch, stop at the tranquil monastery of Wat Nokor. Although not massive in comparison to the vast complexes of Angkor Wat, Wat Nokor is the largest of its kind in Kampong Cham Province and is distinctive from other temples with its black sandstone walls.

As it is low water season, we may be fortunate enough to visit a nearby spectacle only present during the Mekong’s drier months. The Koh Paen Bamboo Bridge connects the mainland with Koh Paen Island and is re- built by the local community every November when water levels drop.

Cruise further up the Mekong and visit a local school to learn more about the education of the young Cambodian generation. Children from the Organization for Basic Training (OBT) are provided a free, supplemental education in English, maths, and the arts, and they are always excited to show their skills in music and dance. Shower the young performers with applause and in return, you are bestowed upon with the most genuine and happy Cambodian smiles.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation at: Heritage Line Jahan Cruise – Deluxe Cabin

Day 11: Mekong Delta – Siem Reap

Enjoy your last breakfast on board The Jahan. Disembark the ship for a transfer by bus to the drop off point in Siem Reap.

The transfer takes approximately 4.5 hours including a rest stop. To keep you entertained during the ride, our expert guides share interesting insights about Cambodia and the region we journey through. Snacks are provided during the trip. Arrive in Siem Reap in the early afternoon.

Siem Reap – home to the famous Angkor Complex its temples a mixture of ruins and splendor and all majestic, well, when you arrive at the Anantara Angkor you’re very much in splendor. Each suite comes with a butler you are in highly experienced hands. Located in an enviable position 10 minutes to downtown Siem Reap and the excitement it offers, 15 minutes from Angkor Wat and mystery and history this offers. Meaning you can use your time in Siem Reap doing exactly what you wish, be that exploring Cambodian temples, the local life in the town a d beyond or enjoying the very inviting swimming pool. Whichever you decide Anantara Angkor delivers effortlessly. 

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation at: Anantara Angkor Resort – Suite

Day 12: Siem Reap

Pick up at 4:30 AM – Begin your day with an early sunrise at Angkor Wat, followed by breakfast and preparation for your tour, starting at 8:00 or 8:15 am. Your journey begins with a stop at the South Gate of Angkor Thom, an iconic 12th-century entrance to the ancient city. Marvel at the grandeur of the causeway, flanked by a naga balustrade and stone giants.

Next, explore the center of Angkor Thom and be captivated by the smiling faces of Bayon Temple, a 12thcentury Khmer temple dedicated to Buddhism. Your guide will lead you to Baphuon Temple, known for its grand entrance and impressive reliefs.

Continue to Phimeanakas Temple, a Hindu temple built in the Khleang style, and then visit the Royal Terraces, once used for royal processions and events. Conclude your morning at Ta Prohm, the famous “Tomb Raider Temple,” known for its ancient ruins and intertwined tree roots.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near Srah Srang, followed by leisure time at the hotel’s pool in the afternoon. Later, visit the highlight of Angkor Archaeological Park, Angkor Wat, built by King Suryavarman II in the 12th century. Explore the temple complex and opt for a sunset view from Phnom Bakheng or a balloon ride.

Return to the hotel for refreshments and dinner in town at your leisure.

Set just away from the main town, you shall discover a property unlike others offering space and privacy you actually feel as if you are living in a Cambodian village! This is a part of the charm of Phum Baitang offering an insight into Cambodia life and houses yet doing so in the very highest standards and luxury. The concept is fabulous, and your private villas are stunning wooden villas with luxury interiors, around the resort in the huge public areas you shall find a heavenly infinity pool set amidst the green rice fields and lemon trees the space here offers a real chance to enjoy some peaceful moments. Phum Baitang really is a hotel we think should be on everyone’s wish list.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation at: Phum Baitang – Terrace Villa

Day 13: Siem Reap

Pick up at 8:00 AM – In order to include some variety during your stay in Siem Reap, take a break from the temples and enjoy a boat journey across the Great Tonle Sap lake to the village of Kompong Pluk. Cruising down a narrow waterway, you will enter this medieval floating village, where the houses stand atop stilts as much as seven metres above the water. Everything lives on the water, pigs, dogs, crocodiles and people, all jockeying for space in this incredible floating town. There’s an option to explore the local Wat here, before enjoying the flooded forest and returning across the Tonle Sap Lake to Chong Kneas and the holy mountain of Phnom Krom. Ending the day with a climb up Phnom Krom for a glorious sunset over the Tonle Sap before heading back to Siem Reap by road.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation at: Phum Baitang – Terrace Villa

Day 14: Siem Reap – Bangkok

Pick up at 10:30 AM – your guide and driver will meet and escort you to Siem Reap International Airport for your flight to Bangkok.

Meals included: Breakfast