Vietnam and Cambodia

Your value-added tour package includes:

• 15-night accommodations in deluxe hotels
• 30 meals – 15 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 6 dinners
• Transportation and sightseeing as outlined in the itinerary
• Arrival and departure transfers between the airports and our group hotel
• Amazing Journeys Onsite Travel Coordinator
• English speaking tour guides throughout
• Gratuities including tour guides, drivers, baggage handlers and servers at included meals
• All taxes, service charges and government fees
• Bottled water provided each day
• Shabbat services
• Baggage handling throughout
• Amazing Journeys gift for each participant
• Amazing service throughout

What’s Not Included:

• Optional tours and entrance fees not listed on the itinerary
• International flights
• Travel protection
• Meals not mentioned on the itinerary
• Arrival or departure airport taxes
• Visas
• Incidentals

Monday, February 2 – Arrive Hanoi, Vietnam – Tour Begins

Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam and the start of your Amazing Journey! From the Old Quarter to the bustling squares and historical sites, to the tastes and smells of Vietnamese cuisine to the local markets, Hanoi offers a great place to jump in and discover a new culture as we begin our Amazing Journey.

Upon your arrival, we’ll transfer you to our deluxe boutique hotel, located in the center of Old Hanoi. Since most flights will arrive later in the afternoon or evening, no group activities have been planned for today.  Instead, we invite you to relax and get acclimated to the time zone, enjoy the oasis and tranquility of luxury at our hotel, or step outside to experience the hustle and bustle of Old Hanoi.

Tuesday, February 3 – Hanoi, Vietnam

This morning, after breakfast, we’ll gather together for a Group Welcome and Orientation.  Then, we’ll head out to experience the culture and foods that Vietnam is known for, giving you a good introduction to the country and its people as we enjoy a Street Food Tour. In the morning, we’ll drive to one of the biggest markets in Hanoi, the Chau Long Market, an impressive market experience. From here, walk to Truc Bach Lake, where we’ll stop at a renowned restaurant specializing in Hanoi’s famous dish, Pho Cuon – flat rolled noodles with grilled beef and vegetables. Our Hanoi street food tour will give you the opportunity to tasting a variety of local Vietnamese foods throughout the day. After, we drive back to the Old Town to see some of the sites this city is known for. We’ll visit Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature and enjoy a traditional cyclo-rickshaw ride through Hanoi’s Old Quarter. We stop to visit the Bach Ma Temple, a sacred temple in town which dates back to the 11th century. We end our tour at a local coffee shop and enjoy some sips of the famous Vietnamese coffee dripping from the filter. After, we’ll go back to our hotel so that you can enjoy a free evening to experience the night scenes of Old Hanoi. (B, L)

Wednesday, February 4 – Hanoi, Vietnam

Today we take you on a journey to discover the charm of traditional villages surrounding Hanoi and witness the excitement and preparations for Tet, or Lunar New Year. Our first destination is Tranh Khuc Village, located just 50 kilometers from Hanoi, famous for its mouth watering banh chung and banh tet. We will delve deep into the legend behind the banh chung and the intricate process of creating these delicious cakes. Moving on, we will visit the stunning Nhat Tan and Quang Ba Flower Gardens, a sight to behold during the festive season. The joy, relaxation, and family celebrations at this time are truly inspiring. Finally, we will conclude our day with a delectable treat consisting of banh chung cakes and a stroll around the Old Quarter. Here, we will witness the hustle and bustle of people buying and selling cakes, sweets, flowers, and decorations for the upcoming Tet festivities.

Similar to pine trees used for the Christmas holidays in the West, Vietnamese people use many kinds of flowers and plants to decorate their houses during this very special time. In Vietnam, there are 3 kinds of plants that are essential during the Tet holidays and represent the joy and love of the people at this time of year. The delicate pink peach blossoms signal spring in the North and represent vitality. In the South, the beautiful yellow apricot blossoms are a sign of wealth and love, and the kumquat tree with their bright orange golf ball sized fruit are a symbol of wealth and happiness. Join us on this journey and experience the magic of Tet! (B, L)

Thursday, February 5 – Hanoi – Lan Ha Bay Cruise, Vietnam

This morning, we drive approximately 2.5 – 3 hours on a scenic drive to Halong Bay. From here, we board a tender boat that will take us to our home for the next two nights, Mon Cheri Cruise, located on Tuan Chau Island. Onboard, you will be welcomed with a refreshing drink and given a safety briefing before we set sail towards Lan Ha Bay. During the cruise, passengers will join together for a delicious lunch while enjoying the stunning views of Lan Ha Bay. Our first stop will be at Tra Bau, an open and sparsely populated area known for its unspoiled natural beauty and attractive seascape. Here, you can enjoy kayaking and swimming in the emerald green waters this area is known for. Later, we’ll return to our ship to take in the sunset on Ha Long Bay, perfect for photography enthusiasts to capture these stunning views. Take part in the cooking demonstration onboard and later, join the group for dinner on our floating hotel. After dinner, relax and enjoy the beautiful landscape of the bay on the top deck while sipping drinks from the bar. Later in the evening, by the light of the moon, join others for squid fishing (B, L, D)

Friday, February 6 – Lan Ha Bay Cruise, Vietnam

Today, we’ll discover more of Lan Ha Bay. We’ll get onto a day-cruise to visit Viet Hai village where you can take a bike or tram along the trails, through vast rice fields to explore a peaceful village. Meet local people on the way to learn about their lifestyle. After lunch, we’ll continue cruising to the pristine white sand beach where you are free to swim or kayak. In the late afternoon, back onboard Mon Cheri Cruises, don’t miss out on another spectacular sunset view while sipping a cocktail on the top deck. This evening, we join together for a Shabbat celebration, followed by dinner at the restaurant on our cruise. After dinner, simply relax or join in some of the cruise activities. (B, L, D)

Saturday, February 7 – Lan Ha Bay Cruise – Hanoi – Denang – Hoi An, Vietnam

To fully experience the beauty of the bay, wake up early and join a Tai Chi session on the sundeck. After a light breakfast, we will travel by bus to Trung Trang Cave, situated right in the heart of the Cat Ba National Park. The cave is a true marvel of nature, with its unique formations and intricate passageways. Upon returning to the cruise, we’ll proceed with the checkout process, while enjoying a delicious brunch. The cruise will then make its way back, providing us with ample time to relax and soak in the breathtaking scenery. We will disembark before noon, feeling rejuvenated and enriched by this unforgettable journey.

We’ll drive approximately 2.5 hours back to Hanoi, where we get to the airport for our afternoon flight to the center of the country in Denang. Here, we’ll travel to the quaint city of Hoi An, and one of the most charming cities in all of Vietnam. The Old Quarter has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is the “city of textiles” and is a wonderful place to have hand-tailored clothes made. We’ll check into the hotel, and you’ll have a free night to enjoy your beautiful surroundings on the bank of the confluence of the Rivers Thu Bon and Hoai. (B)

Sunday, February 8 – Hoi An, Vietnam

Immerse yourself in the culture of Cam Thanh Village with a scenic biking tour showcasing traditional rice production methods and picturesque rice paddy fields. Be amazed by the unique coconut houses and handcrafted furniture made from water-coconut and bamboo. The friendly locals will make you feel at home as you learn about their culture and way of life. Enjoy traditional net fishing and experience paddling in a Vietnamese bamboo basket boat. After, embark on a walking tour of Hoi An’s waterfront. Admire the Japanese Covered Bridge, the ancient house Tan Ky, and the ornate Fu Kien Chinese Temple. Enjoy free time this afternoon to spend as you please. This evening, indulge in an authentic Vietnamese dinner at a charming local restaurant by the Thu Bon River. This unforgettable experience will give you a deeper appreciation of Vietnam’s rich culture. (B, D)

Monday, February 9 – Hoi An, Vietnam

Visit colorful Hoi An market before cruising down the Thu Bon River to the Red Bridge Cooking School. Our cooking class includes a visit to the school herb and vegetable garden, a brief introduction to Vietnamese food carving (for plate decoration) and a two hour hands-on lesson to prepare specialty Hoi An and well-known Vietnamese dishes. After, we’ll sit down to the lunch we have prepared in class. End the day on a creative note with a silk lantern class where you can make a lantern to take home. The rest of the day and evening is free at leisure or take a walk to enjoy the atmosphere of old town Hoi An. (B, L)

Tuesday, February 10 – Hoi An – Hue, Vietnam

Today we leave Hoi An behind as we depart for Hue. On the way, we stop in the city of Danang to visit the Cham Sculpture Museum. Enjoy the beautiful scenery as we travel over the spectacular Hai Van Pass. In the afternoon, we visit the former Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This walled enclosure contains palaces that housed the royal family. Tonight, a warm welcome awaits you at the Tuyet Nguyen home, hosted by a family of royal lineage. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony before dining on an authentic Vietnamese dinner. These special treats give you a unique opportunity to spend time and learn about the culture and traditional customs. (B, L, D)

Wednesday, February 11 – Hue – Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam

Today is a travel day as we leave Hue and fly to Saigon. Our local guide will be waiting for us and we’ll learn a little bit about the city while transferring to our hotel. This evening is free for you to enjoy the busy streets right outside of our centrally located hotel, which is itself, steeped in history. Enjoy the rooftop bar, the pool, spa or the Signature Lounge privileges available to us. (B)

Thursday, February 12 – Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) – Mekong Delta – Saigon, Vietnam

Today, we leave the big city behind, and drive to the rural town of Cai Be, where we will take a small boat to visit local villages and gain an intimate glimpse into the daily lives of the locals on the Mekong Delta. Along the way, we’ll have the opportunity to stop at local workshops that produce some of the region’s most exquisite products. We’ll witness the fascinating process of making pop-rice, rice paper, and coconut candy and learn about the traditional techniques used to craft these delicacies. As we venture deeper into the countryside via smaller canals, our destination will be the charming Tan Phong Island. Here, we are fully immersed in the local culture and marvel at the impressive craftsmanship of those who make stunning country cottage roofs from coconut palm leaves and export various products, including baskets, bags, hats, and wallets made from water hyacinth. We get the chance to explore the island on foot or by bike. We’ll have the opportunity to hear Southern Vietnamese folk music and enjoy a delicious lunch at a local home. After lunch, walk around the village or enjoy some leisure time before returning to Saigon this evening. (B, L)

Friday, February 13 – Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam

Today, we’ll visit Saigon’s Chinatown for an overview of local life during Tet festival. After, visit downtown Saigon including the Colonial Quarter, Opera House, Hotel de Ville (City Hall), Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Central Post Office. A Vietnamese tradition before Tet, we visit calligraphers at the Youth Cultural House and ask for special writings for New Year’s greetings, wishing for happiness, health, wealth, and longevity for the upcoming year. This evening, we’ll gather together for a Shabbat service, followed by a group dinner. Shabbat shalom! (B, D)

Saturday, February 14 – Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam – Siem Reap, Cambodia

Today we leave Vietnam and fly to Cambodia.  Travel back in time to Siem Reap and the Angkor Wat Temples.  This UNESCO World Heritage site was at one time the largest pre-industrialized city in the world and is considered by many to be one of the ancient wonders of the world.  It is truly monumental and an awe-inspiring sight. From a distance, you see the massive structures, with assorted spires rising up to the sky. Once closer, you enter a different world entirely. These stone structures are intricately carved with thousands of relief sculptures, each representing different deities, goddesses and religious themes. Arriving at Siem Reap, we’ll meet our local guide and transfer to our hotel. Check in to your suite and enjoy the rest of the day at our deluxe resort and spa. (B)

Sunday, February 15 – Siem Reap – Angkor Wat – Ta Prohm – Siem Reap, Cambodia

Early risers may experience a spectacular sunrise view of Angkor Wat. Return to the hotel for breakfast. After, we head to the famous Angkor Wat, the world’s largest temple with the world’s longest intricately carved bas-relief panels. Explore this 3-tier pyramidal structure, with massive galleries of thousands of Buddhas, interior walls and niches decorated with stone asparas (celestial dancers) and devatas (goddesses). Take a walk around the top terrace for a great view of Angkor. Visit the magnificent Ta Prohm in the afternoon. The 12th century temple has been left in its natural state, largely un-restored, surrounded by jungle and enveloped with massive banyan roots resembling stone-like tentacles. This evening is yours to explore the many restaurant options in town, or visit “bar street.” (B, L)

Monday, February 16 – Siem Reap – Angkor Thom – Banteay Srei – Wat Thmey – Siem Reap, Cambodia

In the morning, we will visit Angkor Thom, which means the “Great City” in Khmer, the 12th-century royal Buddhist city especially famed for its grand Bayon Temple. Also included are the South Gate, Bapoun, the Terrace of the Elephant, and the Terrace of the Leper King. After lunch, drive to Banteay Srei, the Citadel of Women with its very attractive carvings, the royal bathing place – Srah Srang, and the unique brick sculptures in Prasat Kravan. Then visit Wat Thmey (one of the killing fields) and Les Artisan D’Angkor before returning to our hotel. This evening, we’ll gather together for our Amazing Journeys farewell gathering, before we sit down to enjoy a special Khmer Apsara performance, an indigenous tradition memorialized on the temple walls at Angkor Wat, and discover authentic Khmer cuisine at our Farewell Dinner. (B, L, D)

Saturday, February 17 – Siem Reap, Cambodia – Tour Ends

Today our journey ends, and you’ll be heading home with new friendships, memories and experiences of your amazing journey. (B)

Hotels:
Night 1-3       Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel, Hanoi
Night 4-5       Mon Cheri Cruise, Lan Ha Bay
Night 6-8       Hotel Royal Gallery, Hoi An
Night 9           Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel, Hue
Night 10-12   Caravelle Hotel, Saigon (Ho Chi Mihn City)
Night 13-15   Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa, Siem Reap

Please note: The order of the tour may be change, some activities are weather dependent, hotels are subject to change.

A registration form must be completed for each traveler. A deposit of $950 is due with each reservation. Final payment is due on November 1, 2025. Rates listed are for final payments made by check. After the initial deposit, all payments made by credit card will have a 3% credit card fee.

Prices are subject to change based on availability.

Pre-Night Stays: For those who want to arrive prior to the start of the tour, we have a limited number of rooms held at our group hotel.  Please note – there will be no Amazing Journeys staff present nor will there be programming on these days.  Rates listed are per day and include taxes and breakfast daily. A deposit of $50 is due with your request for pre-nights.

Hanoi (February 1): $130 per person

Please note – This is a group exclusive vacation package. We are unable to make any of our package components available to anyone who is not part of our Amazing Journeys group.

Items listed on this website are subject to change at any time.  By providing payment you agree to the terms and conditions as outlined on this website. All staterooms are non-smoking.

Cancellation Policy: From the time of deposit until June 4, 2025, there is a $300 penalty for cancellation. From June 5 – September 17, 2025, the cancellation penalty is the amount of the deposit including extra hotel nights reserved. From September 18 – December 1, 2025 the cancellation penalty is 25% of the cost of tour package including extra hotel nights reserved.  From December 2, 2025 – January 2, 2026 the cancellation penalty is 50% of the cost of tour package including extra hotel nights reserved. From January 3, 2026 until the day of travel, the cancellation penalty is 100% of the tour package including extra hotel nights reserved. Cancellations made on the day of departure and “no-shows” will receive no refund.  There is no refund in the event of interruption or cancellation by the passenger after the start of the journey. Your decision not to participate on the tour due to State Department advisories, fear of travel, illness or any other reason will be deemed a cancellation.

Travel Protection: Travel protection is recommended for participation in this program.  Information will be sent with tour confirmation.

Passport & Visa Requirements: A passport is necessary to travel on this itinerary.  It must be valid for six months beyond the last day of the trip. If you are arriving from the US, Canada, Australia, UK, a single-entry visa is necessary for entry into Vietnam. For Cambodia, you will get a visa at the border upon arrival.  There must be three full pages in your passport to accommodate the visas and entry stamps.  More information will be offered as we move closer to the date of travel. Please note that visa requirements can change at any time and it is up to the traveler to be aware of visa requirements.

This trip is for you if: You’re an on-the-go traveler – you don’t want to miss a thing, walking and standing for 2-3 hours isn’t a big deal and you’re able to walk at a moderate pace, covering several miles, hills and uneven surfaces. Walking four miles throughout the day is very doable and you can easily climb stairs. You can navigate hills and uneven/wet ground independently, climb up and into various modes of transportation including boats, trishaws and tuk-tuks, and could handle changes in elevation as high as 4,900 feet. There will also be a bike tour which you may opt out of. You can expect several early mornings and some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. When traveling in Cambodia and Vietnam, you will encounter warm to hot and humid temperatures. You must be in good health and prepare properly. This trip is not a fit for those who require assistance with walking or who travel on mobility devices.

Vaccines: There may be specific vaccinations recommended for this itinerary. We recommend visiting a travel clinic or see your health professional to be sure you are up to date on vaccinations needed for international travel. Requirements can change at any time. You can get more information at the following web site: Center for Disease Control. Please note that our Amazing Journeys staff are not medical professionals and therefore are unable to give specific information on vaccinations or medications you may need for this or any other tour.

Taxes, Fees & Gratuities: Taxes, surcharges, and government fees are subject to change. Gratuities have been included on this tour and include tips for all shipboard staff, local guides, drivers, luggage porters and included meals. Gratuities are not included for housekeeping staff in the hotels and tipping is at your discretion.

Flights: It is important that you not purchase airfare until you receive a Confirmation Letter from Amazing Journeys.  For this itinerary, flight parameters are as follows:
Arrive in Hanoi on February 2 – land at Hanoi International Airport (airport code HAN) at any time on February 2.  Since most flights from North America land in the evening, we have no scheduled activities on this day. Our first program will begin after breakfast on the morning of February 3 with a Group Welcome Program.
Return from Siem Reap on February 17 – depart from Siem Reap / Angkor Wat (airport code SAI) any time after 9:00am today.

Transfers: Transfers between the arrival and departure airports to our group hotels are included in your tour package, including extra nights booked by Amazing Journeys. A surcharge may be added for those arriving or departing outside of our flight perimeters or will not be offered at all if you are arriving into an airport other than those listed above.

Credit Card Payments: Rates listed are for final payments made by check. After the initial deposit, all payments made by credit card will have a 3% credit card fee.

Baggage: Regardless of what your international air carrier permits, each traveler will be limited to one checked suitcase (maximum 23 kilos) for flights within Vietnam and Cambodia. Your carry-on bag (max 8 kilos) must fit up on the bus and cannot go under the bus.  We recommend a backpack, tote bag or purse instead of a rolling carry-on.

Fuel Surcharge: Should oil costs go above $65 a barrel and our tour operators adjust the rate of the cruise or tour costs accordingly, we reserve the right to adjust the cost of the cruise/tour.

Exchange Rate: In the case of currency fluctuations greater than 3%, we reserve the right to adjust our pricing accordingly in order that we may be able to operate the cruise and tours effectively.

This tour is operated by V’Explore. We must have a minimum of 12 participants in order to operate this tour. This tour has a maximum of 24 participants.