Vietnam & Angkor - Premium Adventure
Experience Overview
Immerse yourself in incredible experiences on this expertly led cultural adventure from Hanoi in northern Vietnam to Siem Reap in Cambodia. Explore limestone cliffs and enjoy sundowners on deck as you cruise Ha Long Bay; discover culture and history in Hoi An; witness street life in vibrant Ho Chi Minh City; and slow down on the serene waterways of the Mekong Delta. Finally, we journey to Siem Reap, staying at the intimate Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa – the perfect base to visit one of the great surviving archaeological wonders, the iconic temple complex of Angkor.
Profile
— Accommodation: 13 Premium nights (12 hotel, 1 Ha Long Bay boat) — Travel by private air-conditioned minibus, three flights and boat — Group normally 4 to 16 plus leader
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 13 Premium nights (12 hotel, 1 Ha Long Bay boat) — Travel by private air-conditioned minibus, three flights and boat — Group normally 4 to 16 plus leader
Trip For You
This Premium Adventure is rated Activity Level 1 (Easy). For more information on our trip gradings, visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip, please do not hesitate to contact us.
This is not a rushed trip and, although there are early starts, the focus is on spending time in each area in comfort, with few long road journeys. Both Vietnam and Cambodia are humid, which can be tiring as we explore some areas on foot. We have included three flights to keep travelling time to a minimum but delays can occur.
Group Description
The trip is led by English-speaking Vietnamese and Cambodian tour leaders, chosen for their experience and great feedback.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts, seven lunches and seven dinners are included.
Food is cheap in Vietnam and Cambodia, and you can generally avoid the spicier food if you wish. The cuisines share many similarities. However, Vietnamese food relies on fresh fish, vegetables, rice and a myriad of verdant herbs and spices. The Chinese and French influence is felt throughout the country where you are just as likely to be offered a banh mi (stuffed baguette) as you are a steaming bowl of pho (noodle soup).
Cambodian food is all about contrasts − sweet and bitter, salty and sour, fresh and cooked. It shares many dishes with its neighbours, and you’ll find noodle soup similar to Vietnamese pho, the refreshing salads and sour soups of Thailand, Indian-inspired curries, and noodles and stir fries handed down from years of Chinese migration.
Vegetarian food is widely available; however, the offering will be fairly similar in most places. Please advise at time of booking if you have any dietary requirements.
Transportation
We use private air-conditioned car, minibus or bus dependent on group size. Boats are used at various points in the itinerary. There are three flights included in the itinerary and all bookings on flights are economy class.
Tet Holiday Period (Vietnamese New Year)
During the Tet holiday period, 28 January to 3 February 2025 and 16-21 February 2026, our itinerary is subject to minor change as, despite booking hotels and trains in advance, rooms and seats are difficult to obtain during this busy festive period when people are travelling home to celebrate with their families. It is unlikely that changes will occur, but if required, suitable alternative premium accommodation will be used.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Recommended arrival time: You should aim to arrive by late afternoon to catch the welcome dinner
Airport: Hanoi Airport (HAN)
Getting to the start hotel
Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers.
Catching your return flight
Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers to Siem Reap Airport (SAI) from the end hotel.
Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Weather Information
The weather will be hot and humid throughout with daytime temperatures usually between 28C and 34C (82F and 93F). It is only a little cooler at night.
There is quite a range of seasons between the north and the south: the south up to Hue has a distinct dry season between December and April and then a rainy season from May to November when it tends to come in short heavy bursts with bright sunshine in between. Hanoi is cool in autumn, and even gets chilly between November and February (with drizzly rain).
There is no ideal time to visit Vietnam; it is quite pleasant at any time of year, though due to the shape of the country it is unlikely the weather will ever be perfect for the entire duration of any trip.
Please be aware, the Ha Long Bay boat trip can be subject to change at short notice if certain adverse weather conditions develop. These could occur year-round, but especially in monsoon season (October to April). Ha Long Bay boat trips are governed by local authorities, who are authorised to make such appropriate safety decisions. If your Ha Long Bay trip is affected by adverse weather, this could either result in a reduced excursion on Ha Long Bay for your group, or less likely, the need to re-arrange the itinerary if it is not possible at all to go out on Ha Long Bay. While this is not a frequent occurrence, our local team and leaders are well equipped to handle such situations and have long offered appropriate options to groups in the instances where this may occur.
In Cambodia, the weather will be hot and humid year-round. The dry season is late October to May and the monsoon is normally between May and October; though there is an obvious transitional time between those settled periods. The dry season is as it sounds, with hot days and generally clear skies, though you can expect the odd shower. The monsoon is characterised by short bursts of rain and is generally overcast all day though this does not detract from the enjoyment of the place; just take an umbrella or buy a cheap poncho locally.
Spending Money
You need about US$300‐US$375 for all other meals, which will allow you to eat well. Apart from the food, you should allow money to cover drinks (more if you like a beer/alcohol) and souvenirs.
Optional excursions
There are several optional activities, which your leader can help arrange for you and advise of costs locally.
Hanoi
— Water puppets: US$6
Hoi An
— Tu Bon River boat trip: US$7 depending upon numbers
Tipping
On this Premium Adventure, tipping for any local support staff is included, and will be taken care of by your tour leader (or in some cases through our local agent). So need no for tipping kitties or to make your own tips during the trip.
Our ‘included tips’ will normally cover drivers, local specialist guides, certain hotel staff, and serving staff for included meals. Amounts will be in line with the local standard. Of course, if you wish to make a further tip for some extra special service you may do so.
Tips for the tour leaders are not included. Whether to tip at all and the amount is entirely at your own discretion, but as a starting point we suggest around 61,000-125,000 dong (US$3-US$6) per person per day for the duration of the trip.
Highlights
— Combine the wonders of Vietnam and Angkor, Cambodia, in one unforgettable adventure — Cruise around Ha Long Bay on a small Premium cruise ship and enjoy sunset drinks on deck — Explore Hoi An and pick up new culinary skills in a cooking class led by a Vietnamese chef — Traverse the meandering waterways of the Mekong Delta by boat — Discover the best of Angkor, Southeast Asia’s greatest ruins, plus the lesser-visited temples
Trip Details
Product Code: 4142
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: be used.
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Exodus Travel
Supplier Code: AOH
Starts: Hanoi, Angkor Wat
Finishes: Hanoi, Angkor Wat
Duration: 14 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Unknown
Includes
— All breakfasts, seven lunches and seven dinners — All accommodation — Tips for local staff — Named tour leader, chosen for their experience and great customer feedback — All transport and listed activities — Free arrival and departure transfers for everyoneAccommodation
Premium hotels and Ha Long Bay cruiseFor this Premium adventure through Vietnam and Cambodia, we handpicked accommodation for their location, comfort, style and unique characteristics. The hotels typically used are on the daily itinerary. However, below are some of the standout places we stay. Ha Long Bay: Le Journey Cruise Experience Ha Long Bay, an icon of Vietnam and highlight for many of our travellers, from the comfort of a small Premium cruise ship. Enjoy views over the striking scenery from your deluxe/executive cabin or head to the sundeck to gather with the group and soak up the atmosphere. The latter is a prime spot for sunset, which you can experience with a drink in your hand from the bar. Siem Reap: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa Relax at this intimate riverside resort, which sits in the heart of Siem Reap, an ideal location for our adventures! For ultimate peace, there’s the Nirvana Spa, which offers a traditional Khmer massage, plus tropical gardens and a freshwater pool. The Palate restaurant serves modern Cambodian cuisine made from fresh, local ingredients, and has a sky bar for cocktails with a river view. Worth knowing The accommodation shown has been booked and agreed in advance; however, we may need to make changes to a property of similar or higher standard after you have booked. We endeavour to inform you of any changes in advance, which could, on rare occasions, be at late notice.Single supplements are available (on request) for the 12 hotel nights (not for the Ha Long Bay night). Please advise your sales representative at the time of booking if you would like to request a single supplement.The Ha Long Bay cruise ship may have other guests on board at the same time.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $6,650 ($475 /day)
Itinerary
Welcome to Hanoi, the culture-rich capital of Vietnam. Depending on your arrival time, you might like to start exploring this fascinating city by strolling the broad tree-lined avenues dating from the French period. There is a fading colonial ambiance here, with baguettes and good coffee sold from the doorways of grand buildings from a past era. There is a group welcome meeting this evening with your expert tour leader followed by a welcome dinner at KOTO (Know One, Teach One), a well-established training restaurant for disadvantaged youths where you are served a blend of Vietnamese and Southeast Asian foods. Premium accommodation: The Q Hotel, Hanoi
Enjoy a sightseeing tour this morning, which includes a visit to the Temple of Literature, the site of the oldest university in Vietnam; Hoa Lo Prison; and the Old Quarter. For lunch, we visit the much-loved restaurant, Bun Cha Huong Lien, to try their bun cha, a Hanoian classic of noodles, broth and meat served with greens. The afternoon is then free for you to wander around Hoan Kiem Lake and perhaps enjoy the view from a lakeside cafe. Premium accommodation: The Q Hotel, Hanoi
We make an early start for the approximate four-hour journey to Ha Long Bay, one of the most stunning sights in Southeast Asia with some 3,000 limestone peaks rising directly from the emerald sea. We cruise among this striking karst scenery, stopping to swim and kayak, allowing us to get to places inaccessible by boat (weather permitting), and enjoy a seafood lunch on board. Later in the afternoon, join the tour leader and group for a drink or two on the top deck while watching the sunset before spending the night in twin-share cabins. Premium accommodation: Le Journey Cruises, Ha Long Bay
We continue to cruise around Ha Long Bay this morning before returning to port. Your leader then introduces the group to the Ha Long Women’s Association in the Hon Gai township, an initiative committed to cleaning waste in Ha Long Bay and upcycling it, where possible, into items of value. Meet the women and witness how they upcycle trash into beautiful, handcrafted products. You may also get the chance to try upcycling too. We then drive back to Hanoi for a free evening to explore or relax. There may be an option of seeing a water puppets performance, which your leader can arrange if you wish (subject to availability). Premium accommodation: The Q Hotel, Hanoi
Transfer to Hanoi Airport after breakfast for a flight to Da Nang. In Da Nang, we climb Marble Mountain where we explore the large caves used by the Viet Cong as a hospital base during the war. There are wonderful views from the mountain peak over My Khe Beach and the surrounding countryside which leads on to the captivating town of Hoi An, our next destination (approximately one-hour transfer). This evening, the group dines at a local restaurant with views of the atmospheric Thu Bon River. Premium accommodation: Hoi An Blue Sky Boutique Hotel & Spa, Hoi An
This morning includes a walking tour of Hoi An, the original European trading port in Vietnam dating back to the mid-16th century. It is now a living museum, with attractive wooden merchant houses and pagoda-style temples. It is also a marvellous place to wander around, dipping into the thriving riverside market and shopping for silk clothing. After lunch at a local eatery, the afternoon is free to enjoy a town that has become a favourite for so many travellers to Vietnam. Options include a trip to My Son (the spiritual home of the Cham civilisation) where Cham kings were buried as long ago as the fourth century. Although bombing has destroyed much of the site, there are several interesting stone towers and sanctuaries. Premium accommodation: Hoi An Blue Sky Boutique Hotel & Spa, Hoi An
We spend the morning visiting the local market, shopping for ingredients before visiting the renowned Green Mango Cooking School. Here we learn the intricacies of Vietnamese cooking, creating dishes under the supervision of a Vietnamese chef. You don’t need to be a proficient cook to enjoy this activity – but be warned, you eat your creations at the end of the morning! The afternoon is free to enjoy Hoi An at leisure or jump on a bike (optional) to ride through the countryside, passing markets, schools and villages, before continuing to Cua Dai beach (3mi/5km). Premium accommodation: Hoi An Blue Sky Boutique Hotel & Spa, Hoi An
Transfer to Da Nang Airport this morning for the flight (approximately 1hr 25min) to Ho Chi Minh City (formally Saigon). This is an absorbing city where scooters pack the streets and temples stand alongside modern developments. The Saigon River and Ben Thanh Market are within walking distance and are highly recommended. After arrival, we dine at Pho Hoa on Pasteur, a Ho Chi Minh City institution, which has been in operation for more than 50 years. Here you enjoy a tasty lunch of southern-style Vietnamese noodles and spring rolls. An afternoon city tour includes a visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. The museum has an interesting photographic record of the Vietnam/American War. Please be aware, some images at the museum are very graphic. Premium accommodation: Sila Urban Living, Ho Chi Minh City
Leave the city and head north to visit the Cu Chi tunnels. Used by the Viet Cong during the war, the network covers three levels and incorporates around 150mi (240km) of tunnels. Traditionally, these were very narrow, but some areas have been widened to allow tourists to explore the system. People with claustrophobia may prefer to stay outside in the sunshine. In the afternoon, we return to Ho Chi Minh City and the rest of the day is free for individual exploration. Premium accommodation: Sila Urban Living, Ho Chi Minh City
We drive (approximately 2hr 30min) to the Mekong Delta this morning, where we board at . Our adventure takes us around four islets on the Tien River, known individually as Dragon, Unicorn, Tortoise and Phoenix, and collectively as the Four Sacred Islets of the Mekong Delta. During our exploration, we stop at a local house to eat seasonal fruits and enjoy the traditional music of southern Vietnam. We then walk to an orchard to sample honey tea. We also visit a coconut candy workshop to see a cottage industry in action, before riding a tuk tuk through coconut gardens to three villages (Quoi Son, Phu An Hoa and An Khanh) to learn about the daily life of the residents. After lunch, we take a rowing boat to see fish breeding in floating cages. After our tour, we return to Ho Chi Minh City, where we gather at Cuc Gach Quan this evening, a Michelin-recommended restaurant serving an elevated take on the local cuisine in a traditional Vietnamese house. Premium accommodation: Sila Urban Living, Ho Chi Minh City
Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport for the flight to Siem Reap in Cambodia. On arrival, we meet our Cambodian tour leader and head to Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa, where we spend the next three nights. Enjoy a welcome-to-Cambodia dinner in the village of Lum Orng. We eat at the first farm-to-table restaurant in the country, enjoying authentic Khmer cuisine made with many ingredients from the garden. Depending on our flight time, we may also be able to catch sunset at the Angkor temple complex. If not, we can do this tomorrow. Premium accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa, Siem Reap
Begin today with a moment to remember: sunrise at Angkor Wat, the most iconic of the temples in the old Khmer capital. After breakfast back at the hotel, we return to Angkor to explore the UNESCO-listed site some more, including a look around Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and Bayon. That’s followed by a home-cooked lunch at an old wooden house in Srah Srang village. Here we are welcomed by Aunt Ki, the caretaker of this historic home, and enjoy a meal cooked by Ki and her family using locally sourced rice and vegetables. We finish our day around 4pm, with time to relax back at our tranquil resort. Premium accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa, Siem Reap
We return to Angkor to see even more of the incredible complex. Today we visit Banteay Srei and Ta Prohm, the latter still covered in jungle as it was first found. After the temples tour, we return to the hotel to relax before our farewell dinner, which features traditional cuisine and a dance performance. Premium accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa, Siem Reap
This cultural tour ends after breakfast. There are free transfers to Siem Reap Airport for all customers (see the Joining Instructions for more information). Alternatively, if you’d like more time to explore this fascinating destination, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
Deborah E - Traveled, October 2023
Excellent This is the first trip I have done when I haven’t felt ready to come home. Vietnam was a delight and a surprise, not how I expected it to be at all, but that is why we travel. I would have loved to have stayed longer to explore the mountains, especially in the company of our wonderful guide Thanh Vu who made every day a treat. There is only a little time in Cambodia, just the temples of Siem Reap, but it was long enough for us to realise that these two countries, despite being so close together, have different cultures and different feels to them. I would not hesitate to recommend this trip. Most Inspirational Moment Maybe places where it was quiet such as the very top of Marble Mountain and watching the sunset from the top of the boat in Ha Long Bay when the day trip boats had left. Meeting the victims of Agent Orange at the craft works was sobering, as were the Cu Che tunnels and the War Museum; difficult, but necessary, inspiring to see how humanity can prevail. Thoughts on Group Leader Both Thanh Vu in Vietnam and Theavy in Cambodia were excellent. They had different styles, but then the countries cultures are very different. They were both great company and I felt I could trust them implicitly. There didn’t seem to be a question that they couldn’t answer and their English was very good. Theavy had some great ideas for photographs which she took delight in helping us with. Advice for Potential Travellers Don’t underestimate how sapping the humidity can be, the free times were welcome to help us recoup. Be aware that there is some hopping on and off of little boats to do; and the wooden staircases around Siem Reap can be a raking angle and rarely have handrails. A degree of nimbleness is useful to make the most of this trip. On the plane from Vietnam to Cambodia, the flight crew will issue you with Customs and Immigration forms. The forms are tiny; be ready with spectacles, a pen, and maybe a crib sheet with your passport number and the address of the Siem Reap hotel. Suggestions The evening street food visit in Hanoi is well worth doing, as is the cycle ride in Hoi An. I wouldn’t recommend the Cave visit in Ha Long Bay it’s too busy with people to be able to appreciate it; unless this changes, stay on board and enjoy the views instead. Trust your Guides!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/18/2023
Alison Mcmenemy - Traveled, February 2024
Good experience overall The group size (16) was ideal and we experienced a wide variety of what Vietnam and Cambodia had to offer. The cities were frantic at times but we were guided around the highlights by our Vietnamese guide. Most Inspirational Moment The cycle ride around the paddy fields and cottage industries just outside Hoi An. This gave us a real feel for how ordinary Vietnamese people live outside the major cities. Thoughts on Group Leader The leader in Vietnam was excellent. Very knowledgeable about local history and culture and made some great restaurant recommendations. The leader in Cambodia was also great, though we only had him for a day and a half. Advice for Potential Travellers Make sure you take enough Vietnamese dong. There were many places outside the cities that were cash only. Take any opportunity to see life outside the cities and make the journey to the river market on the Mekong. Well worth it, despite the early start. Suggestions Whilst our Vietnamese guide was excellent, I found the requirement to contribute to what I consider to be an enormous tip was alarming. Our guide received approximately £700 from our group, which was in line with the amount suggested by Exodus. It led me to question how much the guides are paid (by Exodus?) and whether they are receiving adequate wages. This leaves me very uneasy as I would hate to think these very professional guides are reliant on tips for their income. More liaison between the Vietnam guide and the Cambodia guide would have been useful. We arrived in Siem Reap expecting a relaxing afternoon but were told that we would have 15 minutes to freshen up then we would be going to a temple then straight to dinner. Some members of the party hadn’t had lunch as they were expecting to get something in Siem Reap during the free afternoon! We did insist on 30 minutes to freshen up but this still wasn’t enough time to grab something to eat. Time was a bit tight at the airports for the internal flights.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/19/2024
Philip C - Traveled, November 2023
Vietnam & Angkor- Premium Adventure It was our 10th trip with Exodus and the standard was again excellent as we have come to expect. Most Inspirational Moment There were many highlights but Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, the Mekong Delta and Angkor Wat stood out. Meeting the friendly Vietnamese people and experiencing the scooters at rush hour was also most memorable. Thoughts on Group Leader Exceptional all round leader who loves his country and wants to share as much of it as he can in the time available. Definitely another highlight of the holiday.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/20/2023
Robert G - Traveled, November 2023
Vietnam & Angkor- Premium Adventure Content was good, and all trips were on time and well organised. The tour guide in Vietnam (TV) went out of his way on a daily basis to ensure we all understood what was going on. He really did create a family atmosphere which meant we had no concerns or worries about our expeditions or meals Most Inspirational Moment The Ha Long bay experience and the meals in general - TV took us to some places we would not have chosen without his expert guidance. Also enjoyed Hoi An. Thoughts on Group Leader I really cannot rate TV high enough - he made the holiday - he was on top of every situation and ensured everyone of us were on board. His organisational skills were excellent - It was a seamless set of experiences. He really went above and beyond his remit to ensure we all had a great experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/15/2023
Penelope R - Traveled, November 2023
Vietnam & Angkor- Premium Adventure Excellent itinerary, accommodation and local guides. Most Inspirational Moment Marble mountain, Angkor Wat and the Red Bridge cookery trip. Thoughts on Group Leader Thanh definitely went the extra mile.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/14/2023
Anthony S - Traveled, October 2023
Vietnam & Angkor- Premium Adventure We have travelled with you a number of times and have never had anything other than a good experience. Most Inspirational Moment Night food tour of Hanoi, Cu Chi tunnels, Angkor Wat, acrobats at Saigon Opera House. Thoughts on Group Leader Best guide we have had. He was so attentive to detail and determined to make sure we all had an enjoyable holiday. Thanh was an absolute star and a great ambassador for Exodus.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/18/2023
Andrew G - Traveled, November 2023
Vietnam & Angkor- Premium Adventure The Vietnam experience was great, and our guide (TV) made sure that everyone was well looked after, I cannot praise him enough! Most Inspirational Moment The cookery course, the trip to Hoi An, our Vietnam guide TV. Thoughts on Group Leader Thanh made the whole group very welcome from our first greeting at the airport to our departure to Cambodia. He was very knowledgeable and extremely attentive to the groups needs. We all felt very well looked after with Thanh.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/28/2023
Shelagh C - Traveled, October 2023
Vietnam & Angkor- Premium Adventure The trip gave us an excellent insight into both Vietnam and Cambodia (culturally & historically) and was most enjoyable. Most Inspirational Moment Ha Long Bay, Hoi An and the Cu Chi Tunnels. We also learnt about the dreadful long-term effects of Agent Orange affecting second and third generations. We were prepared by having read 'Vietnam (An Epic History of a Tragic War)' by Max Hastings. Thoughts on Group Leader Than Vu was exceptional and ensured that Shelagh was provided with the necessary support throughout the time in Vietnam. He was very knowledgeable and happy to discuss the war and politics. Phan Sotheavy was also very solicitous and happy to give historical background
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/14/2023
Jenni Bailey - Traveled, January 2023
Great adventure, fantastic guide This was an interesting trip with a real chance to understand aspects of the culture and history of the country. Activities were varied. Hotels were generally very good. Would highly recommend him for this award. Most Inspirational Moment Ha Long Bay, Cu Chi tunnels, Marble Mountain, small, local cottage industries. Thoughts on Group Leader Thanh Vu in Vietnam was an exceptional leader. He was informative, considerate and attentive. He ensured that the needs of all the group members were met, whether dietary needs or activity preferences. He was always on hand to offer advice and we felt very well cared-for and respected. We were with Theavy in Cambodia for only a short time. She was very knowledgeable about the temples at Angkor Wat. , however, she was not as attentive or readily available to solve problems, i.e. delayed flight home and its impact on taxi arrangements. Advice for Potential Travellers Take plenty of insect repellent for the mosquitos! Although we were advised that it would be cool in the north in January, the temperature was in the low- to mid- 20s. Take US dollars in larger denominations as this will enable you to obtain a better exchange rate with the local currency. Also be warned - in Cambodia, old, dirty or torn dollar notes are not accepted (or some will accept them at a discounted value). Suggestions There was a good mix of activities that took in the natural features of the areas we were in as well as allowing a real insight into the culture and history. A couple of suggetions: From Ha Long Bay, we had a long drive back to Hanoi for the night before our flight to Dnang. Could we have gone from the visit to the Green Centre in Ha Long Bay to Dnang rather than undertake a long trip back to Hanoi? The hotel in Hoi An, although very comfortable, was not able to serve an evening meal and it was too far out of the main town to easily walk and get food.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/29/2023
Neil Holland - Traveled, November 2022
Amazing Holiday Such a great trip. Vietnam is beautiful and the people are very friendly and the food is great. So much to see and do. Much more to Vietnam than all the war films would have you believe. Most Inspirational Moment I loved all of Vietnam, but I just loved Angkor Wat the most. It is awe inspiring. Particularly enjoyed doing Ti Chi at 6 am on the top of the boat in Halong Bay with the stunning cliffs as a backdrop. Thoughts on Group Leader Our tour leader in Vietnam was amazing. So helpful and knowledgeable. The Cambodian leader not so good. She got us lost one time and nearly drove off without two members the next day. Advice for Potential Travellers The hardest decision is what time of the year to come, as there are 3 different climates to contend with. November worked for us and we only had one downpour. Suggestions The Mekong delta was a little disappointing. Seems the floating markets are an industry in decline.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/29/2022
Alan K - Traveled, August 2023
Vietnam & Angkor- Premium Adventure Customer service all the way through from booking to the end of the holiday was excellent – all questions were answered promptly and helpfully, and whenever I spoke to any of your team they were always very friendly, polite and informative. The tour guides for both parts of the holiday were brilliant, and the organisation of transport, restaurants etc during the holiday was flawless. All in all the holiday was fantastic, in no small part due to Exodus. Most Inspirational Moment I loved Siem Riep and Hanoi in particular but it is really difficult to pick highlights when there were so many - Ha Long Bay, Hoa Lo Prison, the Temple of Literature, the cooking class and walking tour in Hoi An, Cu Chi Tunnels and Angkor were all excellent Thoughts on Group Leader Faultless and a pleasure to travel with. Nothing was too much trouble for Nhi. She made herself available at all times whether to sort out any minor issues (lost passports and hotel keys!) or to suggest and accompany us to restaurants (without in any way imposing herself). Nhi put her heart and soul into ensuring that we enjoyed our time in Vietnam and that our group socialised and bonded (again without imposing it), and she was sociable and fun without being overbearing or imposing, and her knowledge and ability to communicate that knowledge was superb and presented with a sprinkling of her personality and personal experience of living in Vietnam and always came across as authentic and creative rather than just reciting lines that she had learned. She was always willing and able to understand and answer questions clearly and interestingly, and her understanding and use of English (both the literal language and the nuances of the language and our humour) were excellent. Lastly her organisational skills and willingness to support us meant that when she left us at the airport to move on to Cambodia we all felt slightly exposed without her!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/18/2023
Susan R - Traveled, August 2023
Vietnam & Angkor- Premium Adventure The trip ran seamlessly from start to finish. Both guides were fantastic; professional, knowledgeable, helpful, friendly, thoughtful and caring. Nothing was too much trouble. The hotel in Siem Reap was absolutely gorgeous. To sum up, this was an amazing holiday. I have travelled a great deal and have had some amazing experiences but I think this was just about the best holiday I have ever had. Vietnam was so varied and exciting and Cambodia was breathtaking. We learnt and saw so much and travelled in style. We all want to go back and I’ve already been browsing your website!! Most Inspirational Moment All of it. Thoughts on Group Leader Nhi was an amazing guide - see previous comments. My daughter left her passport on the plane in Da Nang and Nhi sorted the whole thing out on her afternoon off so we could carry on our day. It should have been an afternoon off for Nhi but she went with my daughter back to the airport to collect the passport. We were so very grateful to her.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/23/2023
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