Vietnam and Cambodia: Tales of the Past

Taste your way through the vibrant Vietnamese street food scene in the Old Quarter of Hanoi. Enjoy a leisurely walk from your hotel through the city’s hidden alleyways and bustling markets, listening to your guide’s comments on Hanoian street eats and culinary habits. The Old Quarter is known for its family-owned restaurants and stalls dishing out traditional recipes in complex flavors. Sip local brew at a coffee shop striking a conversation with some of the local people. Amble along the streets indulging in typical Hanoian snacks such as pillow cake and fried sweet cakes, and the most popular Pho Ga (noodle soup with chicken). Hop over to Banh My Lan Ong to savor another Vietnamese favorite – the Banh Mi (baguette with a stuffing like pate, fried egg, barbecued pork, herbs and vegetables), which is reminiscent of the country’s colonial period. Head to the ancient night market of Dong Xuan to try more street food, while bargain shopping for souvenirs and local handicrafts, and watching a local dance or two. The perfect way to wind down the night would be with a few chilled Bia Hois (fresh draft beer) at Beer Corner. (Duration: 3.5 hrs; Time of Day: 1800 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Meal included: Street food; Fitness Level: Moderate; Please note that this activity is closed on Tet holiday , Limited choice for Vegan or vegetarian food)

Discover the attractions of scenic Lan Ha Bay on this overnight cruise. Travel by private vehicle to the cruise lounge at the marina in Tuan Chau, from where you will be transported to the cruise vessel. Board the ship and make yourself comfortable in your cabin. As the ship sets sail, enjoy lunch in the dining room. Later, you could take in views of the scenic bay from the deck or your private balcony. The vessel will drop anchor near Cat Ba Island. Head ashore to explore Viet Hai village, which lies in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains. Cycle around this small fishing village that is solely accessible by sea. Along the way, your guide will tell you all about the local community. Return to the ship and sail to the overnight mooring area. Onboard, watch a demonstration of Vietnamese cooking. After dinner, you could unwind with your favorite drink at the bar or try your hand at squid fishing before retiring for the night. The next day, wake up early for a rejuvenating Tai Chi session and then relish a light breakfast. On reaching Frog Lake, hop into a kayak and explore the picturesque landscape dotted with soaring cliffs, tree-topped islets and vivid green water. Back onboard, you will be served a hearty breakfast or brunch before it’s time to check out and disembark. Travel back to the pier by speedboat and continue to your next destination. (Duration: 2 days/1 night; Shared activity; Meals included: yes; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: moderate, please note that people with physical limitations can participate as long as they have someone to provide assistance; Please note that this ship cruises only in Lan Ha Bay and does not include visits to Halong Bay or any caves)

Set off on a gastronomic tour of Ho Chi Minh City on this after dark foodie tour. Walk down the vibrant city streets, making frequent stops to sample exotic local delicacies. Meet your guide at a coffee shop for a quick briefing before you head out. Step into a banh mi shop for some freshly baked bread. Head to a banh cuon eatery for a bite of the popular steamed rice flour crepe with pork filling. Snack on Vietnamese rice pizza that comes with a variety of toppings. Indulge your sweet tooth with a dessert of grilled banana with coconut milk. Before you wind up your tour, make one final stop to sample fresh grilled seafood. You could wash it down with a pint of local beer! (Duration: 3 hrs; Starting Time: 1800 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Dinner Included; Fitness Level: Easy; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; This tour involves walking through narrow lanes)

Explore the ancient wonders of Khmer temples within the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap. Visit the temple of Ta Phrom, many parts of which have been taken over by the surrounding jungle, thus creating an eerie atmosphere. It was popularized by the Hollywood movie Tomb Raider. A short drive away is the 11th century Ta Keo, an unfinished mountain temple built completely out of sandstone. It has five sanctuaries on top that offer fantastic panoramas of the surroundings. Continue on to the sprawling walled city of Angkor Thom, highlighted by the mesmerizing Bayon temple, adorned with smiling faces, with maze tunnels. You can admire well-preserved intricate carvings at the Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King. Later, following a leisurely lunch break in your hotel, enter the rear gate of the famed 12th century Angkor Wat. Considered to be the world’s largest religious building, this grand structure represents the universe with its central tower symbolizing Mount Meru. (Duration: Full Day; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy; Please wear comfortable walking shoes)