Vietnam Siem Reap Escape

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), you will be warmly welcomed by our professional guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest city and economic hub, buzzing with modern energy and dynamic life. Despite its contemporary developments, the city retains a rich history, evident in its colonial architecture and cultural landmarks. In the afternoon, embark on a half-day city tour, beginning with an exterior visit to the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, a stunning neo-Romanesque church constructed by the French using materials imported entirely from Marseilles. Next, visit the Central Post Office, an architectural masterpiece designed by the renowned French architect Gustave Eiffel, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s colonial past. Continue your journey to the bustling Cho Lon district, also known as Saigon’s Chinatown, where vibrant markets and historical temples reflect the area’s deep-rooted Chinese heritage. Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a rare Taoist temple built in 1909 by the Cantonese community, featuring intricate wood carvings and religious statues. Spend the rest of the evening at leisure, exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife or relaxing at your hotel. Meals: No Meal Accommodation: Hotel in Saigon

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for an excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located 75 km northwest of downtown Ho Chi Minh City. This vast underground network played a crucial role in the Vietnam War, serving as a strategic hideout and operational base for the Viet Cong forces. The tunnels, stretching over 120 km, contained living quarters, storage areas, hospitals, and even schools, demonstrating the resilience and ingenuity of Vietnamese soldiers. Visitors can crawl through a section of the tunnels, experience a war-era life reenactment, and witness remnants of wartime weaponry. Return to Ho Chi Minh City for an afternoon city tour. Visit the War Remnants Museum, home to an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and military equipment documenting Vietnam’s struggles during the wars against the French and Americans. The museum provides deep insight into the nation’s past and its journey toward peace. Afterward, enjoy a shopping excursion at the famous Ben Thanh Market, where you can browse a wide range of local handicrafts, textiles, and delicious street food. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel in Saigon

After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to the Mekong Delta, known as Vietnam’s "Rice Bowl" for its vast rice fields and fertile lands. Travel to My Tho, a city in Tien Giang Province, where you will board a traditional wooden boat to explore the labyrinthine waterways of the Mekong River. Cruise along the river, observing daily life along its banks. Visit Unicorn Island, a lush oasis where you can walk through fruit orchards, sample tropical fruits, and enjoy traditional folk music performed by local musicians. Continue to Ben Tre, where you will witness the fascinating process of making coconut candy at a local workshop. Experience an authentic rural adventure by riding a horse-drawn cart through village paths and visiting a beekeeping farm to taste fresh honey tea. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening for leisure time. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel in Saigon

Enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in. (Check-in time is from 2:00 PM onwards.) In the afternoon, embark on a fascinating boat trip on the Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. Witness the unique floating villages, where entire communities, including schools, markets, and police stations, exist on the water. Gain insight into the traditional lifestyles of the locals who rely on fishing for their livelihood. Spend the rest of the evening at leisure, exploring Siem Reap’s vibrant night markets or enjoying a traditional Khmer dinner. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before setting off on a full-day exploration of the majestic Angkor temples. First, visit the ancient city of Angkor Thom, built in the 12th century. Enter through the South Gate, flanked by impressive statues depicting the Hindu legend of the Churning of the Ocean of Milk. Inside Angkor Thom, explore the iconic Bayon Temple, renowned for its 54 towers adorned with over 200 massive stone faces of Avalokiteshvara. Continue to the Royal Enclosure, the Phimeanakas, and the Terrace of the Elephants, once used for royal ceremonies. End the morning at the Terrace of the Leper King, named after its mysterious statue. In the afternoon, visit Ta Prohm, a mesmerizing temple engulfed by massive tree roots. This temple, made famous by the movie Tomb Raider, showcases the powerful interaction between nature and ancient architecture. Finally, visit the world-famous Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest religious monument in the world. Built in the early 12th century, Angkor Wat is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture, featuring intricate carvings and the longest continuous bas-relief in the world. As the sun sets, marvel at the breathtaking view of the temple bathed in golden light. Return to your hotel in the evening for relaxation or an optional Apsara dance performance. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before checking out. Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time to explore the city, shop for souvenirs, or visit a local market. Transfer to Siem Reap International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through Southern Vietnam and Cambodia. Meals: Breakfast