Vietnam/Cambodia
Timeless Charm
Vietnam is shaped like an elongated ‘S’ and stretches along the east coast of the Indochinese Peninsula. A local metaphor likens it to a long bamboo pole hung with two baskets of rice, represented by the two fertile regions at either end of the country. The lush Red River Delta and the highlands in the north, known for their magnificent scenery and colourful hill tribes, complement the agricultural plains and floating markets of the Mekong Delta in the south perfectly.
The impact of Japanese and Chinese trade, French occupation and American intervention has had on obvious influence on Vietnam. These influences are readily apparent in the vivid legacy from different cultures evident in the character of its towns, as well as in the architecture and food. The quaint town of Hoi An, once a major trading port, boasts the perfectly preserved architectural influences of the Asian merchants from the north, while the broad leafy boulevards of the capital Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are reminiscent of France. Vietnam is known for its cuisine and offers an abundance of flavourful options for travellers to choose from. Hue is the old imperial capital of Vietnam with its royal palaces and palatial mausoleums, and nearby the battle sites of the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) are reminders of the brutality of war. Despite rapid economic expansion over recent years, Vietnam’s cultural roots remain strong. Visitors will find ancient temples and colourful pagodas scattered throughout urban centres, interspersed with luxurious hotels and sleek skyscrapers. A country with a complex history, boundless natural beauty and fascinating cultural influences, Vietnam provides a wealth of different activities and unique experiences.
Cambodia is one of the most authentic and unspoiled destinations in Southeast Asia and attracts adventurous travellers with remarkable ancient temples, unique cultural experiences, and picturesque rural landscapes. Even the historical horrors of the Khmer Rouge draw tourists, with attractions like the notorious Killing Fields serving as harrowing reminders of Cambodia’s most turbulent and tragic chapter. Nestled along the tropical waters of the Gulf of Thailand, sharing boarders with Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand, Cambodia has a lot to offer intrepid visitors. Travelling by tuk-tuk along the chaotic streets of French-flavoured Phnom Penh is a must. Cambodia also promises idyllic beaches, usually less crowded than those of its neighbouring countries. However, by far the most popular attraction in the country is the ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat, a magnificent ‘Lost City’ which is undoubtedly one of the most magical tourist attractions in the world and a bucket-list destination for many. Although Cambodia is still most popular with backpackers and budget travellers, luxury accommodation and amenities are on the rise, catering to the increasingly diverse crowds wanting to explore this beautiful country.
What to see in Vietnam and Cambodia
- See the revered Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
- Explore the Cu Chi tunnels of the Viet Cong.
- Search for the mythical dragon, sailing in a “junkboat” in Halong Bay.
- Tour Hanoi’s renowned Old Quarter.
- Ride a boat along the Perfume River and visit the Royal Tombs.
- Indulge in the big city nightlife of Pham Ngu Lau.
- Explore Sa Pa and Bac Ha near Hanoi.
- Enjoy the culinary delights of Hue.
- Visit the incredible, ancient Angkor Wat Temple complex at sunrise.
- Take a boat to the ‘floating villages’ on the massive Tonle Sap Lake.
- Visit the tiny village of Kratie to view the rare Irrawaddy River Dolphins.
- Take a tuk-tuk to the Tuol Sleng Museum and the Killing Fields for a glimpse into the tragic history of Cambodia.
- Shop till you drop at Phnom Penh’s famous Russian Market.
- Learn how to cook the famous Fish Amok (Amok trei) at a Cambodian cooking class.
- Picnic on the banks of the Mekong on the lawns of the Royal Palace.
- Indulge in a Seeing Hands Massage done by expert blind masseuses.