Product Code: MT-1587
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In-depth Small Group Tour with Flights Uncovering the Spectacular Gems of Vietnam & Cambodia
Book By 30 November 2024
In-depth Small Group Tour with Flights Uncovering the Spectacular Gems of Vietnam & Cambodia
International flights to Hanoi, returning from Phnom Penh
Internal flights:
Set out on an adventure of a lifetime discovering the ancient temples, bustling cities and spellbinding countryside at the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia. This in-depth 18-day tour will immerse you in the rich culture and history of these fascinating countries. Cruise through the stunning Halong Bay, visit the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor, indulge in delicious local cuisine in Hanoi, and observe daily life in the vibrant cities of Ho Chi Minh and Phnom Penh. This stellar tour also includes return international flights, domestic flights within Vietnam and a flight across to Siem Reap, 3-4 star accommodation, daily breakfast and select additional meals, expert tour leader, meticulously planned itinerary and unique experiences.
Highlights
Inclusions
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Xin chao! Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam and the start of your epic adventure. Hanoi is full of culture, history and the engaging contradictions of a rapidly developing and deeply traditional society. You’ll be greeted by your guide and driver at Noi Bai International Airport and transferred to the hotel. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is at leisure.
Begin your journey through Vietnam in the lively heart of Hanoi with an engaging tour that explores the city’s famous landmarks and rich history. Your day kicks off with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the father of modern-day Vietnam is entombed. Next, we’ll explore the Temple of Literature, constructed in 1070 during the Ly Dynasty as Vietnam’s inaugural university, dedicated to the teachings of Confucius. This serene temple complex features well-maintained gardens, courtyards, and pavilions, providing a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Designed according to Confucian principles of balance and harmony, the temple’s intricate architecture symbolizes the pursuit of knowledge. Along the way, your guide will offer insights into contemporary Hanoi life, highlighting Vietnamese culinary traditions and popular northern dishes. Indulge in a taste of Vietnam with a lunch featuring the renowned local Pho or Bun Cha. Our tour concludes at the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, where we’ll visit the stunning Ngoc Son Temple. This evening, enjoy an included dinner where you can get to know your fellow travellers and learn a bit more from your tour leader about what incredible experiences the next sixteen days will bring!
Meals: Breakfast, light lunch and dinner
Today is a free day for you to enjoy Hanoi at your own pace. Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a bustling metropolis known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning blend of French colonial architecture and traditional Vietnamese charm. From the serene waters of Hoan Kiem Lake to the chaotic streets of the Old Quarter, Hanoi offers visitors a captivating experience filled with sights, sounds, and flavors unique to this dynamic city.
Meals: Breakfast
Today the tour sets out for the coastal town of Halong, about four hours from Hanoi. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is a captivating mosaic of around 1,600 islands and islets adorned with lush vegetation, caves, and secluded beaches. Legend has it that the bay was formed by a celestial dragon, whose thrashing tail created the dramatic landscape. Board a beautifully crafted wooden junk for an overnight cruise in the legendary seascape of Ha Long Bay. Indulge in a delectable lunch as you navigate between the iconic limestone cliffs, venturing into lesser-explored corners of the bay. Take time to unwind with activities like swimming, kayaking, and cave exploration (activity availability may vary based on the season and weather conditions). As the day draws to a close, soak in the mesmerizing sunset from the deck before joining a cooking demonstration and savouring a delicious dinner. Retire for the night to your comfortable private cabin with an ensuite bathroom, ready to embrace the tranquillity of Ha Long Bay under the starry sky.
Note: Cruise itinerary and schedule are subject to change due to weather, tide levels and operating conditions. Swimming or kayaking excursions may be cancelled due to poor weather.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Wake up early to catch the early Tai Chi session or a peaceful sunrise, with coffee and tea served. Enjoy one last swim in jade waters before brunch while the cruise returns to the dock. Upon returning to Hanoi, enjoy some free time before being heading to the airport for your flight to central Vietnam. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the enchanting town of Hoi An.
Meals: Brunch
Today is a free day for you to enjoy Hoi An at your own pace. Hoi An was once a historic trading port and boasts a unique blend of architectural influences, including Chinese, Japanese, and French colonial styles. Visitors are captivated by the atmospheric lantern-lit streets, picturesque riverside setting, and vibrant markets offering handicrafts and local cuisine.
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, enjoy some free time before we travel to Hue via Hai Van Pass- a route that offers gorgeous jungle and beach views. On the way, do not miss Lap An Lagoon, a large calm body of water that beautifully reflects the surrounding mountains. After arriving in Hue and checking in, the remainder of the day is free for you to unwind at your own pace.
Meals: Breakfast
Today offers the opportunity to unwind and delve into the charming city of Hue at your own rhythm. The city served as the capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty, leaving behind a legacy of majestic palaces, ancient temples, and intricate pagodas. Travelers flock to Hue to explore its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Imperial City with its ornate architecture and the serene Perfume River that flows through the heart of the city. Beyond its historical allure, Hue offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese life, with bustling markets, delectable cuisine, and vibrant festivals showcasing the city’s unique heritage.
Meals: Breakfast
Today we say goodbye to Hue and central Vietnam as we take a short flight down to dynamic Ho Chi Minh City, still called Saigon by the locals. After the short flight and transfer to the hotel, the afternoon is at leisure for you to explore this bustling city.
Meals: Breakfast
It’s an early start today with a trip out to the countryside to see the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, constructed by Vietnamese fighters during the country’s long fight for independence. Watch a short introduction video to learn more about their construction before exploring a section of tunnels used as hospitals, schools, kitchens, weapon storage, command centres and living quarters. The hidden tunnel system was an excellent way for the Vietcong to move around the countryside undetected by foreign troops and was at one stage home to around 10,000 people. View the remains of American tanks and numerous bomb craters before returning to Ho Chi Minh City. Here we will meet with a local guide and set off on a tour of the city. Starting with a visit to the city’s most iconic building: Reunification Hall. Formerly called the Presidential Palace, images of the building were seen around the world in 1975 when tanks stormed the gates as Saigon fell to the North Vietnamese. Hear the echoes of time while walking through this historic downtown site. Then take a stroll to Ho Chi Minh City’s colonial quarter, walking past scenes of everyday life on the way. Admire the beautiful architecture of the Opera House, City Hall, the old Saigon Post Office and hear about the days of French Indochina and how that era continues to influence aspects of modern Vietnamese culture. Step inside the War Remnants Museum for an insightful, yet sombre, look into Vietnam’s military history. Then to wrap up the city tour, stop off at a local coffee shop and try a local Vietnamese coffee.
Meals: Breakfast
Today is a free day for you to enjoy Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace. Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the bustling economic and cultural hub of Vietnam. Renowned for its vibrant street life, historic landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral and War Remnants Museum, and thriving culinary scene, the city offers a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity amidst its bustling streets and skyscrapers.
Meals: Breakfast
Today marks the last day of the Vietnam portion of our tour. Take advantage of the morning for any final sightseeing or souvenir shopping opportunities. Afterwards, we’ll proceed to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Upon landing, your guide will be waiting to escort you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and enjoy the hotel amenities or explore the city of Siem Reap at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Today marks a significant highlight of your Southeast Asia journey as we embark on a day of exploration amidst the extraordinary Temples of Angkor. Our adventure begins at Angkor Thom, often hailed as the Great City. Passing through its majestic south gate, be prepared to be mesmerized by the timeless beauty of the Bayon Temple, a masterpiece dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Wander through the complex grounds, and marvel at the Elephant Terrace and the elevated Leper King Terrace, adorned with intricate Apsara sculptures, each narrating a chapter of this extraordinary site’s rich history. We then take a short drive to one of the most beloved temples – Ta Prohm. This small monastery has been reclaimed by the jungle, held together by giant tree roots, giving it a magical feel. Afterwards, we return to Siem Reap for an included lunch and a break. In the afternoon, the journey resumes with a visit to the magnificent Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. As Cambodia’s national symbol, proudly adorning the country’s flag, Angkor Wat stands as a testament to the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Concluding our day, we ascend Bakheng Mountain Temple for a picturesque sunset vista before leaving the jungle behind and returning to Siem Reap. The magic of the day culminates with a delightful dinner accompanied by a mesmerizing Apsara dance show.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Siem Reap. This bustling city has markets, shops and a variety of fabulous restaurants to explore at your own pace.
Meals: Breakfast
Today the tour sets out from Siem Reap to the bustling capital city of Phnom Penh. The approximately 6-hour drive is a chance to delve deeper into the country’s charm, stopping by fascinating destinations along the way. Your first stop will be the iconic Kampong Kdey Bridge. This impressive bridge spans the Mekong River, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Take a stroll across the bridge, soak in the fresh air, and capture unforgettable photos. Then continue your journey to a local stone carving village. Witness skilled artisans transforming raw stone into intricate Buddha statues and you can even purchase a unique piece of art as a souvenir of your trip. The last stop will be at a culinary adventure at the renowned Spider Market in Skuon. This market is famous for its wide variety of fried insects and spiders, considered a delicacy in Cambodian cuisine. If you’re feeling brave, try a deep-fried spider – it’s surprisingly tasty! Finally, you will arrive in Phnom Penh, a city teeming with history, culture, and vibrant energy. After a day filled with travel, the rest of the day is yours to unwind and relax.
Meals: Breakfast
This morning we embark on a discovery of the city and history of Phnom Penh. We start with a visit to the Royal Palace overlooking the Mekong and Tonle Sap Rivers. Built in 1866 by King Norodom, the palace is now home to the reigning monarch. Within the palace grounds you will find the Silver Pagoda, its floor covered by 5,000 silver tiles each weighing 1kg. We then delve into a significant chapter of Cambodia’s history with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Originally a high school, it was repurposed by Pol Pot’s regime in 1975 into a security prison, but now it documents the harrowing atrocities committed against both political dissidents and ordinary Cambodians. While a poignant reminder of the nation’s painful past, the museum also symbolizes the resilience and hope of the Cambodian people. Conclude the day on a lighter note at the bustling Central Market, renowned for its Art Deco architecture. Here, immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere as you browse through an array of goods, ranging from fresh produce to intricate gold jewellery and silk garments. In the afternoon discover the city at your own pace independently.
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, you’ll have another full day to catch the sights and sounds of Phnom Penh at your leisure. Renowned for its rich history, bustling markets, and ornate Khmer architecture, Phnom Penh offers visitors a blend of traditional charm and modern development amidst its bustling streets.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
As your adventure of a lifetime comes to an end, we’ll ensure your final day is seamless: you’ll be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the airport for your return flight home, taking cherished memories that will stay with you forever.
Meals: Breakfast
Price based on tours starting:
Extra charges apply for:
Price based on departing from Melbourne, Sydney
Extra charges apply for:
Itinerary
Our multi-stop Vietnam and Cambodia tour is carefully designed to give a real insight into the highlights, culture and beauty of each region. Each day will be different, with a combination of travel days, sightseeing and free time to explore or take a breather as you wish.
Pace
The pace of this tour is moderate. The tour covers several cities and involves some early starts and some long travel days – see the itinerary for an indication of the distances travelled by the coach. One to two nights at each destination is standard. Scheduled free days allow some downtime, or alternatively, you have the flexibility to explore further and book optional programs (at your own expense).
Fitness
A moderate level of fitness is required. You are required to move about unassisted, including boarding and alighting vehicles and other forms of transportation, walking up and down flights of stairs, and navigating occasional uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to carry your own bags to and from hotels, stations and terminals. This trip is not suitable for travellers requiring wheelchairs, mobility scooters, larger walking aids, or facilities for disabled guests. For advice on whether this trip is suitable for you, you are required to disclose physical ailments at the time of booking.
Accommodation
A range of accommodation styles including hotels, resorts and cruises are carefully selected to suit the size of the group. Accommodation names referenced are to be used as an indicative guide for the standard of accommodation to expect. Actual accommodation names may differ and will be confirmed on your final documentation. All rooms are lead-in category or run of house unless otherwise specified. Requests for bedding double or twin bedding types can be made however these cannot be guaranteed. The standard check-in time is after 2pm and check-out is before 11am – actual times may vary.
Transfers
Airport Transfers are included on the first and last day of the tour. Any additional nights at the beginning or end of the tour, does not include transfers. Transfers may operate at designated times and may be group or independent services using private transportation.
Meals
Please notify us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements and allergies. We endeavour to pass on your dietary requirements but cannot guarantee that they can be met as certain choices may be limited or not catered for. You are required to reconfirm dietary requests with your tour leader whilst on tour.
Baggage
Each person is entitled to a strict maximum of one bag not exceeding 20kg on tour, superseding any other baggage allowance. Excess baggage is not permitted. Due to the internal flights, the luggage weight of 20kg will be strictly enforced and excess baggage fees will apply if you exceed this limitation. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly. A light day bag or backpack is permitted on the coach. Porterage is not included, and you are required to carry your own bags. Luggage and personal effects are your own risk and we hold no liability for lost or damaged belongings.
Optional Programs
Specially-crafted optional programs provide flexibility for you to explore further. Optional programs are expertly guided and include dedicated coach transportation, admissions and more. Optional programs can be booked directly with the guide and paid in the local currency.
Group Size
You will meet like-minded travellers on tour and may even make lifelong friends. This tour will proceed with a minimum group size of approximately 10 passengers and a maximum group size of approximately 24 passengers. If the tour does not operate, you will be offered a credit.
While you will not spend much time in the hotels, each has been carefully selected to suit the size and needs of the group. Our accommodation is generally of a quality 3 to 4-star or higher local rating. The standard check-in time is after 2pm and check-out is before 11am – actual times may vary. Hotel names referenced are to be used as an indicative guide for the standard of accommodation to expect. Actual hotels may differ and will be confirmed on your final documentation.
Vietnam
Cambodia
Important InformationÂ
Exclusions
Meals not stated, drinks on meals, travel insurance (strongly recommended), optional tours, visas (required – please see below for more details), tipping, personal expenses and anything not explicitly listed under inclusions are at your own expense.
Payment
A first deposit from $499 per person is required to secure your booking. A second deposit (partial payment) is due 10 months before departure – the amount to be advised at the time of booking. The final balance will be due 5 months before departure. Full payment is due at the time of booking for departures within 5 months.
Solo Occupancy
A single supplement from $1100 per person is payable in addition to the twin share price for solo occupancy.
Triple Share
Triple share is not available.
Extra Accommodation
Pre-tour accommodation in Hanoi with breakfast in the same tour hotel can be added for one or two persons subject to availability from $160 per room per night. Post-tour accommodation in Phnom Penh with breakfast in the same tour hotel can be added for one or two persons subject to availability from $160 per room per night.
Child
This tour is best enjoyed by adult travellers and is not suitable for children under 10 years of age. Children 10 years and above are subject to the adult price and must be accompanied by an adult.
Price
Surcharges may apply for select travel periods and departure cities. Prices are correct at time of publication and are subject to availability, change, cancellation or withdrawal without notice. All prices are in Australian dollars per person twin share unless stated otherwise.
Amendment
Each amendment is subject to a non-refundable fee from $75 per person. Additional fees and fare differences from third-party suppliers including air, tour, cruise and accommodation providers may apply.
Cancellation
Cancellation at any time is subject to a non-refundable fee from $550 per person. Additional fees and fare differences from third-party suppliers including air, tour, cruise and accommodation providers may apply.
Deviation
Any request to deviate from the original dates or routing, including early arrival and stay behind, is subject to a flight deviation fee from $150 per person plus applicable airfare and tax difference. Packaged tour extensions are not subject to the deviation fee (applicable airfare and tax difference may still apply) if booked according to the original advertised dates and routing.
Passport
For international travel, each customer must provide a copy of the passport photo page at the time of booking. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure all names are full names exactly matched to the passport with six months validity beyond trip completion. The customer is liable for all fees due to incorrect names, invalid passport information and expired passports.
Visa
All travellers must apply for separate tourist visas for Vietnam and Cambodia at their own expense.
Please start arranging your visa three weeks before departure to account for any delays or processing issues.
Passengers who are not travelling on an Australian passport must check with their respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.
Visa details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up-to-date information in terms of entry requirements.
Vietnam
Australian passport holders must have an appropriate visa before travelling to Vietnam. You can apply online for a single entry electronic visa (e-Visa) from USD $25pp. If approved, the eVisa allows for a stay of up to 90 days.
Lodge your application for the e-Visa here: Vietnamese National Web Portal of Immigration
Cambodia
Australian passport holders must have a visa to enter Cambodia. You can apply online for a single entry electronic visa (e-Visa) from USD $36pp. If approved, the eVisa allows for a stay of up to 90 days.
Lodge your application for the e-Visa here: e.visa Kingdon of Cambodia
The pace of this tour is moderate. The tour covers several cities and involves some early starts and some long travel days – see the itinerary for an indication of the distances travelled by the coach. One to two nights at each destination is standard. Scheduled free days allow some downtime, or alternatively, you have the flexibility to explore further and book optional programs (at your own expense).
Fitness
A moderate level of fitness is required. You are required to move about unassisted, including boarding and alighting vehicles and other forms of transportation, walking up and down flights of stairs, and navigating occasional uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to carry your own bags to and from hotels, stations and terminals. This trip is not suitable for travellers requiring wheelchairs, mobility scooters, larger walking aids or facilities for disabled guests. For advice on whether this trip is suitable for you, you are required to disclose physical ailments at the time of booking.
Health
It is the responsibility of the customer to check and comply with the health, vaccination, COVID-19 and immigration requirements of each origin and destination country, and health requirements imposed by air, tour, cruise and accommodation providers. Vaccinations, testing and quarantine costs are the expense of the customer. Comprehensive travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is strongly recommended. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up-to-date information on health and vaccination requirements.
Baggage
Each person is entitled to a strict maximum of one bag not exceeding 20kg on tour, superseding any other baggage allowance. Excess baggage is not permitted. Due to the internal flights, the luggage weight of 20kg will be strictly enforced and excess baggage fees will apply if you exceed this limitation. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly. A light day bag or backpack is permitted on the coach. Porterage is not included and you are required to carry your own bags. Luggage and personal effects are your own risk and we hold no liability for lost or damaged belongings.
Meals
Please notify us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements and allergies. We endeavour to pass on your dietary requirements but cannot guarantee that they can be met as certain choices may be limited or not catered for. You are required to reconfirm dietary requests with your tour leader whilst on tour.
Accommodation
A range of accommodation styles including hotels, resorts and cruises are carefully selected to suit the size of the group. Accommodation names referenced are to be used as an indicative guide for the standard of accommodation to expect. Actual accommodation names may differ and will be confirmed on your final documentation. All rooms are lead-in category or run of house unless otherwise specified. Requests for bedding double or twin bedding types can be made however these cannot be guaranteed. The standard check-in time is after 2pm and check-out is before 11am – actual times may vary.
Tipping
Tipping for guides and drivers is discretionary and recommended as a gesture of appreciation for the service provided. It is customary to tip the tour leader and driver at the end of the tour from US$5 per person per day.
Flights
The outbound flight may depart one day prior to day 1 shown on the itinerary. The inbound flight may arrive one day after the final day shown on the itinerary. Flights are booked approximately 8 to 10 months prior to departure. The flights included in your package are based on a specific predetermined airfare allowance. Should there be a significant increase in airfares, fuel levies, taxes or government fees at the time of booking flights, then an airfare supplement may be imposed. The flights team will discuss options with you prior to ticketing, should this situation arise. Flights may not operate daily or directly to your destination. No show of any flight sectors will result in the automatic cancellation of all onward flights by the airline.
Fuel
In the unlikely event of a significant increase in fuel costs levied by third-party air, land and cruise transportation operators before travel, a fuel supplement may be passed on to the customer.
Transfers
Airport Transfers are included on the first and last day of the tour. Any additional nights at the beginning or end of the tour, does not include transfers. Transfers may operate at designated times and may be group or independent services using private transportation.
Optional Programs
Specially-crafted optional programs provide flexibility for you to explore further. Optional programs are expertly guided and include dedicated coach transportation, admissions and more. Optional programs can be booked directly with the guide and paid in the local currency.
Group Size
You will meet like-minded travellers on tour and may even make lifelong friends. This tour will proceed with a minimum group size of approximately 10 passengers and a maximum group size of approximately 24 passengers. If the tour does not operate, you will be offered a credit.
Itinerary
The operating schedule and itinerary may be impacted without notice by adverse weather, seasonal factors, closures, local conditions, COVID-19 or other factors beyond our control including force majeure. If attractions are not available due to reasons beyond our control such as closures or adverse weather, alternatives will be provided where possible. The itinerary and its order, sightseeing and transportation may be adjusted as deemed appropriate by the operator for optimum safety, enjoyment and operation. Any reference to ‘optional’, ‘not included’ or ‘exclusions/excluded’ means at your own expense.
Breakaway
Customers must remain with the tour group at all times and must not leave the tour unless written approval is provided before departure.
Documentation
Final documentation will be emailed within two weeks of departure. For packages consisting of multiple tours or countries, documentation will be emailed individually within two weeks of departure of each respective tour.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is strongly recommended. Ask our holiday experts for great coverage options.
Force Majeure
Force majeure means any natural disaster, accident, fire, act of God, act of war, terrorism, legally binding judgment, injunction, action of a court or other relevant authority, emergency, unplanned repairs, maintenance, strike, industrial dispute, work ban, blockade or picketing, travel ban, pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of infectious disease, or other event beyond our reasonable direct or indirect control. In case of force majeure or other extraordinary event that prevents safe travel, the supplier reserves the right to adjust, postpone or cancel the trip.
Product Code: MT-1587
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