Vietnam and the Temples of Angkor
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Experience Overview
Cruise through the emerald waters of Halong Bay, taking in its limestone karsts. Stroll through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, where old-world charm meets vibrant life. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, a testament to Vietnam's wartime resilience. Along the way, dive into bustling local markets, taste local dishes, and uncover the rich traditions of this captivating country.
Highlights
Dining Summary
- 6 Dinner (D)
- 14 Breakfast (B)
- 3 Lunch (L)
Must-see Highlights
- Explore Hanoi, Hoi An, Hue, Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap
- Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, the Imperial Citadel in Hue, the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, the Củ Chi Tunnels, Siem Reap Old Town Market, the temples of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Wat Damnak and Ta Prohm
- Visit One Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, Viet Hai Village in Halong Bay, the Imperial Citadel in Hue, the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels, Siem Reap Old Town Market, the temples of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Wat Damnak and Ta Prohm
- View Ho Chi Minh's House in Hanoi and the Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh City.
- View Ho Chi Minh's House in Hanoi and the Opera House, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh City.
Iconic Experience
- Hanoi: Travel past the colorful shopfronts and street food vendors of Hanoi's Old Quarter on a cyclo tour.
- Hanoi: On a sightseeing tour of the city of Hanoi, see the imposing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature.
- Hanoi: Enjoy a traditional evening Water Puppet performance in a local theater. This northern Vietnamese art form beautifully illustrates scenes of rural life and natural history and began approximately a thousand years ago, possibly in the flooded rice fields of Vietnam. Puppeteers stand in waist-high water and manipulate their charges in such a way that you can’t help but be swept up in the legend being told. Each short sketch in the performance relates to the daily life of the people.
- Hai Phong: Bike or ride through a coastal village to learn about everyday life in northern Vietnam. Visit the Bhaya Community Farm and discover the ‘Save the Langurs’ project. At Bhaya Cafe, make a refreshing mojitea or try your hand at bánh cuốn, all while soaking in views of buffalo-dotted fields.
- Ha Long Bay: Start your day on beautiful Ha Long Bay with a T'ai Chi class led by a Local Specialist.
- Hoi An: Hoi An is famous for its bespoke tailoring, where skilled tailors create custom suits, dresses and more—often in just a day or two. Whether you're after the perfect fit or a stylish design tailored to your preferences, your Travel Director will be on hand to ensure you’re well taken care of throughout your visit.
- Hoi An: Red Bridge Cooking School is a culinary gem in Hoi An. Begin your learning with a welcome drink at Hai Cafe before you explore the bustling central market with your chef, where you’ll select fresh ingredients. Take a boat to the school to enjoy a private cooking class and dine on your creations overlooking the river.
- Hoi An: Cruise down the scenic Cua Dai River on a local boat and experience the art of casting traditional Vietnamese fishing nets. Guided by friendly fishermen, you'll learn this centuries-old technique, adding an authentic and unforgettable adventure to your journey.
- Hue: See Hue by land and water today. Enjoy a cyclo tour past the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda before boarding a local dragon boat.
- Ho Chi Minh City: Enjoy the sights of the French colonial-era buildings and even a former CIA residential block as you partake in a walking tour of Ho Chi Minh City.
- My Tho: Cruise along the canals of Cai Be in a small sampan boat during your visit to this market town.
- After a stroll through the streets of Cai Be, meet a local family in their home. Hear stories from your Local Specialist about surviving the Khmer Rouge and learn about the family's handicraft, making paper.
- Ho Chi Minh City: Visit the home of the former American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s.
- Ho Chi Minh City: Gain insight into a challenging period of Vietnam's history as you join a Viet Cong veteran on a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, built to protect Viet Cong guerrillas.
- Siem Reap: Dine on traditional Cambodian flavors during a performance of local Apsara dancers and musicians. Marvel at vibrant silk costumes and see the symbolic hand gestures of this historic art form.
- Angkor Wat: Join your Local Specialist and immerse yourself in the stories of the celestial nymphs and mystical serpents.
- Angkor Wat: Discover the Banteay Srei Temple, also known as the "Citadel of Women" where you can admire delicate 10th-century carvings.
- Angkor Thom: Enjoy a visit to Angor Thom and admire the iconic sites of the Terrace of Elephants, the Royal Enclosure and the Temple of Bayon.
- Wat Damnak: Experience a private blessing with a Monk where a sacred thread is tied around your wrists to protect you against evil spirits.
Be My Guest
- Hue: Enjoy lunch at one of the great remaining garden houses of Hue where you will gain insight into the lives of the Phan family and admire their fascinating collection of artifacts and mementos from the days of the former Royal Empire.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
- Ho Chi Minh City: Have dinner at KOTO restaurant, which supports those affected by poverty to provide opportunities and a vocational education in the hospitality sector. This experience supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
- Siem Reap: Experience some truly local traditional crafts such as palm leaf weaving. Your visit directly benefits villagers as we contribute a donation to enable the locals to support the school children with uniforms and books, or towards the upkeep of the elderly villagers' home. Your experience supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Trafalgar Difference
- Ho Chi Minh City: Originally opened in 1930 as a charming beverage shop owned by the Editor-in-Chief of a French newspaper, the Hotel Grand Saigon has grown into one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic landmarks. Restored to its French colonial glory in 2012, this former meeting point for writers and intellectuals, now offers luxurious rooms and a prime location on Dong Khoi Street, perfect for exploring the city’s vibrant heart.
Trip Details
Product Code: 28257
Tour Type: Group Tour
Accommodation: Deluxe
Transport: Private
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Explorer, Budget
Tour Operator:
Trafalgar (CA)
Supplier Code: 735.1550B
Starts: Hanoi, Vietnam
Finishes: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Easy
Includes
Whats Included
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Must-see sightseeing
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Optional Experiences and free time
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
- Flights from Hanoi to Danang, Hue to Ho Chi Minh City and Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $6414 ($428 /day)
Itinerary
On arrival, we have airport transfers arranged for you. Relish the warm embrace of Vietnam and her welcoming people, who will touch you with their humility and entrepreneurial spirit throughout your journey across this intoxicating land. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a dinner at a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Silk Path Hotel
Meals: Dinner
Ready to step into Vietnam’s past? You’ll visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university from the 11th century. It’s a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture—and if you’ve got a 100,000 dong note, you’ll spot it right there. Next, hop on a cyclo, a three-wheeled bicycle taxi, and cruise through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, known for its 36 streets once home to artisan guilds. You’ll also view the striking Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and then go inside the One Pillar Pagoda and Ho Chi Minh’s peaceful wooden house. Then, meet Mr. Liem Phan, a skilled artisan who brings the ancient art of water puppetry to life. Hear the story behind this unique tradition, enjoy a show, and even try your hand at puppet-making. End the day at your leisure, soaking in Hanoi’s charm and culture.
Accommodation: Silk Path Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Settle in aboard your Halong Bay boat before meeting your Cruise Manager and crew. As you cruise southeast, take in the limestone karsts of Trong Mai, Ngon Tay and Con Coc Islets over a relaxing lunch. Step ashore in a coastal village where you’ll travel by bike or electric cart, meeting locals who’ll introduce you to northern Vietnamese life. Pause at a local cafe to shake up a refreshing glass of mojitea or roll delicate bánh cuốn alongside your host. Returning to the boat, you’ll moor for the night and sit down to a Vietnamese dinner with your fellow travelers. A rice wine tasting rounds out the evening with a taste of local tradition.
Accommodation: Au Co Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Join a Tai Chi session as the sun rises over Halong Bay, a UNESCO-listed landscape. After breakfast, you’ll explore Cua Van Floating Village, either by kayak or traditional rowing boat. This quiet water community is home to generations of fishermen, and your visit offers a closer look at how life continues to flow on the bay. Enjoy the final views of the bay as you cruise back to the Wharf, then head to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Danang. Transfer to Hoi An, where your evening is free—an ideal time to explore the tailoring capital of the world and its old town.
Accommodation: Allegro Hoi An
Meals: Breakfast
Step into Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with roots as a 15th-century trading port. Once a bustling hub for merchants from China, Japan, and Europe, this town now welcomes you to explore its rich history and blend of cultures. Stroll through narrow lanes lined with ancient merchant houses, cross the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, and admire the intricate carvings of the Chaozhou Assembly Hall. Afterward, visit the market, where you’ll be greeted by the enticing aroma of fresh spices and the shimmer of colorful silk. Browse the market stalls and you’ll certainly find a Hoi An treasure to bring home. Your afternoon is free but why not try one of our Optional Experiences.
Accommodation: Allegro Hoi An
Meals: Breakfast
Spend the morning at leisure—explore Hoi An at your own pace or relax at your hotel. Alternatively, join one of our Optional Experiences: visit the ancient My Son Sanctuary or uncover history at the Ky Anh tunnels in Tam Thanh village. In the afternoon, Dive into Culture at the Red Bridge Cooking School. Start with a welcome drink at Hai Cafe, shop for fresh ingredients at the market, then take a boat to your private cooking class, enjoying your creations with a river view.
Accommodation: Allegro Hoi An
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Hoi An’s waterways, a lifeline for villagers and a window into its past. Visit a fishing village to learn the art of casting Vietnamese fishing nets and try paddling traditional round basket boats through coconut-palm groves. Hear stories of the area’s wartime history as you cruise back with a refreshing drink in hand. This afternoon, cross the spectacular Hai Van Pass, famed for its breathtaking views, and stop at Red Beach, where American marines first landed in Danang. Wrap up the day in Hue, Vietnam’s imperial capital, for an overnight stay steeped in history.
Accommodation: White Lotus Hue
Meals: Breakfast
You’ll navigate the busy streets of Hue on the back of a cyclo en route to the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, once home to Nguyen emperors. From here, you’ll drive to Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue's best-preserved religious monument. Boarding a local dragon boat next, cruise along the Perfume River to the house of the former Princess Ngoc Son, the daughter of Emperor Dong Khanh. Although the house is no longer owned by royalty, you will meet the current Phan family for a Be My Guest lunch to gain a glimpse of their life in this historic house. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure or consider joining one of our Optional Experiences.
Accommodation: White Lotus Hue
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
A short flight this morning brings you to the bustling heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Get ready to uncover its sights on a walking tour along vibrant Dong Khoi Street. Marvel at the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville, then stroll up to the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, crafted by none other than Gustave Eiffel. Take a poignant journey through the War Remnants Museum, offering a glimpse into the war through the eyes of locals, before walking through Ben Thanh market, a treasure trove of history and culture. Later, your Stays with Stories experience at Grand Hotel Saigon is a French colonial gem right in the city’s historic heart. End the day with dinner at KOTO restaurant, where your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience supports life-changing opportunities for disadvantaged youth.
Accommodation: Grand Saigon
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
The mighty Mekong beckons today, as you take a day trip to Cai Be town, in the heart of the Mekong Delta. You’ll transfer to a charming traditional boat where you will cruise and explore the bustling riverbanks. Visit a beautifully preserved ancient house dating back to the 19th century, passed down through many generations of the family. Enjoy a leisurely sampan ride through the narrow canals, stopping for a home-hosted lunch of delicious Mekong Delta specialties, before returning to Ho Chi Minh City for an evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Grand Saigon
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Uncover Vietnam’s fascinating past with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate underground network used by the Viet Cong. A veteran shares how these tunnels served as homes, hospitals and hideouts. You’ll return to Ho Chi Minh City by private speedboat, with free time to unwind. Later, you’ll step into history at the former home of US Ambassador Henry Cabot Lodge, followed by dinner to end the day.
Accommodation: Grand Saigon
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Transfer to the airport for the short international flight to Siem Reap in Cambodia. On arrival you’ll meet your local Cambodian Travel Director, the rest of the day is at leisure. Later, enjoy the best of Cambodian cuisine and be entertained by a traditional Apsara dance performance.
Accommodation: Tara Angkor
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, walk through a pyramid-shaped gateway into an ancient world. Serene stone faces watch as you cross the causeway suspended over a moat into the spiritual heart of the ancient lost city of Angkor. Be amazed by the sheer size, you’ll be memorised by the intricate carvings and murals of celestial nymphs and mythical serpents along the abandoned hallways of Angkor Wat. Your next stop is the terracotta-hued walls of Banteay Srei Temple – the “Citadel of Women” dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. You will have time to admire the 10th-century carvings of women, said to have been too delicate to have been carved by a man, hence the name. Finishing with a visit to Krabei Riel local village you will have a chance to walk and talk with the villagers who are always keen to share their smiles with you. Learn some of their traditional skills such as palm leaf weaving, your time will be spent truly engaging in a real-life Cambodian Village MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience.
Accommodation: Tara Angkor
Meals: Breakfast
Start at Angkor Thom, exploring the Terrace of Elephants, the Royal Enclosure, and Bayon Temple’s smiling faces of Buddha. Next, wander Ta Prohm, its mossy ruins you may recognize from the film ‘Tomb Raider’. Under the canopy, you’ll discover towers, courtyards and stone carvings hidden among the foliage. Visit Artisans d'Angkor this afternoon, supporting Khmer craftsmanship in silk making and wood carving. You’ll join a private blessing at Wat Damnak where a sacred thread is tied around your wrist as protection from evil spirits. End your day with an Optional Experience to join a sunset boat cruise on Tonlé Sap Lake.
Accommodation: Tara Angkor
Meals: Breakfast
As your journey through Vietnam comes to an end, a shuttle service to the airport has been arranged to ensure a smooth departure for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast
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Tour Operator
Trafalgar (CA)
Family owned and run since 1920, The Travel Corporation (TTC) is the world leader in immersive travel experiences across an extensive range of travel categories. Each year TTC's 40 award winning hospitality and travel brands connect over 1 million happy travellers to the world. We give you access to the 12 DMC’s behind these brands, so you can build your business by capitalizing on the extensive experience, local expertise, and financial assurance of TTC. LOCAL EXPERTISE The world leaders in travel for over 100 years, we offer unparalleled local expertise with a global footprint. Our 12 DMCs, led by experienced in-destination teams, deliver experience rich travel solutions in more than 80 countries. Additionally, our market based teams are on hand to support across our 40 offices worldwide
In Business Since 1931
Reviews
Linda Z. - Traveled, January 2021
I have taken a few trips with Trafalgar, but this trip was absolutely the best!!! Our tour guide, Thom, couldn’t have been better. He was fluent in English, engaging, knowledgeable, humorous, helpful, and thoughtful. We engaged in various cultural activities such as cooking classes, paper making, lantern making, plus cruises and boat rides. The hotels were excellent, all with accommodating staff in great locations. The drivers all had cold water on the bus and cool wet cloths upon our return to the bus. Just a perfect journey!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/15/2021
Anonymous - Traveled, February 2021
The tour guide was excellent.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/10/2021
Angela Reddy - Traveled, February 2021
Unique cultural experiences excellent and knowledgeable guides.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/25/2021
Vicki Noll - Traveled, January 2021
We never had to ask for anything! Thom seemed to know before we did what we would need and when.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/30/2021
Gary Waggoner - Traveled, June 2020
The tour guides were excellent. Thom, the tour guide in Vietnam, made sure all our needs were met. He is very knowledgeable about the history and culture of his country. He is also good at respecting the sensitivities of the tourists which was important considering there were 2 Vietnam vets in our group. Tra, the Cambodia tour guide, was also very knowledgeable. He is really good at suggesting sites for photo ops which resulted in many keepsake photos. Truly a great experience. Also, the quality of the hotels was fantastic.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/30/2020
John Walsh - Traveled, May 2020
This was my eighth trip with Trafalgar. That statement says it all! This is by far the best travel agency and that’s why I use them exclusively. I have not been disappointed on any of my trips and the company is extremely professional. The trip I just completed to Vietnam and Cambodia was excellent. The tour directors in both countries were outstanding. I told my friends this is the company to use. What more can I say other than Trafalgar is the best!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/10/2020
Anonymous - Traveled, June 2020
Travel Director, Coach Drivers and Local Specialists were all wonderful. Everyone was proud of their country and happy to share their knowledge. I would give a five star rating for the people but some of the buses were extremely uncomfortable for anyone over 5’ 8” (unless you like sitting with your knees under your chin!).
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/25/2020
Donald Holdridge - Traveled, April 2019
A smooth operation from start to finish. Tour guides were excellent and really knew their program and coordinated everything perfectly. Second time we have used Trafalgar and would definitely use them again!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/12/2019
Janine Parry - Traveled, June 2019
Vietnam was so much more than I expected . Our diverse itinerary and our amazing Travel Director Thom made the experience so much fun.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/30/2019
Anonymous - Traveled, April 2019
This trip far exceeded my expectations. The accommodations were 4-5 star, the tour guide was terrific and the country was beautiful.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/10/2019
Sylvia Taylor - Traveled, April 2024
I give 4 stars because of the couple of hotels that we didn't have a great experience in. The Sofitel in Saigon, the room had a severe lack of storage for two people which meant my husband didn't even unpack. The service wasn't great overall, many of us were left waiting a long time for food only to be presented with luke warm dishes and we were unable to charge anything to our room, unlike all the other hotels we stayed in. The Imperial Hotel in Hue wasn't great either. I would suggest that three days in Hoi An is unnecessary, a day or two in Danang would have been great to chill a bit and enjoy a hotel by the beautiful beach. Include the Golden Bridge as an excursion or at least an option, it's a must see IMO.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/30/2024
Anonymous - Traveled, April 2024
I thought that the tour was expensive however at the end it was good value for money.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/20/2024
Anonymous - Traveled, February 2024
The coordination of each country tour was nice. We were surprised that there was minimal coordination between our tour in Vietnam and our connecting tour in Cambodia. We did not even have the contact information for our tour director for Cambodia until we arrived to the airport in Siem Reap.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/11/2024
Anonymous - Traveled, January 2024
I have access to your Website so I do not need more information. I can say you select well your guides and group site. Hotels are good, I felt well accompanied and supported by them, no complaint.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/20/2024
Maria Di Frangia - Traveled, November 2023
Thom a very good guide. Loved halong bay nights on the water. Did not care for the cooking class.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/15/2023
Anonymous - Traveled, November 2023
Trafalgar needs to provide an up to date correct itinerary for the Vietnam and Cambodia trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/30/2023
Nicholas Schofield - Traveled, October 2023
Everything was great. The itinerary was well-structured, although we felt that the third day in Hoi An, Viet Nam was not strictly necessary. The guide THOM, in Viet Nam made all the difference. His knowledge and understanding of his country is both wide and deep. Given the contentious nature of recent Viet Namese history, and the presence of several Americans who had fought in the war, Thom maintained a balanced and neutral position on all controversial topics. He is exceptional. He was, in every way, a true Ambassador for his country and probably does a better job than the official ambassadors... In fact, I felt that he should be running the country... The Viet Nam segment of the itinerary was predominantly about its CULTURE. The food and general background, historic buildings, natural scenery were well-chosen and interesting. We spent a shorter time in Cambodia, to see the extraordinary temple complex of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. Our guide was younger than the Vietnamese guide. That did not matter, because of the majesty of the Angkor ruins - they spoke for themselves. We were kept very busy on this tour and we felt that a little bit of extra time could have been given in Viet Nam for shopping and chilling out. But this is not a criticism.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/20/2023
Anonymous - Traveled, June 2022
We booked and extra night and a Trafalgar guide was waiting for us at the airport.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/30/2022
Kim Raymond - Traveled, May 2022
Very helpful and friendly tour directors,go out of their way especially when I needed a doctor
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/15/2022
Anonymous - Traveled, October 2022
The travel directors on the ground were great, the service provided by Traflagar directly not so much. Super difficult to reach via phone. I received way too many emails with little to no new information.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/20/2022
