Independent Treasures of Vietnam & Cambodia 13 Days

• Begin the day with a private guided tour of Hanoi. Explore the captivating Old Quarter by cyclo, where timeless merchants engage in centuries-old trade. • Visit the mausoleum and humble cottage of "Uncle Ho," who governed Vietnam until 1969. Continue to the One Pillar Pagoda and the Presidential Palace. • Discover the ancient Temple of Literature, Hanoi's esteemed first university, dating back over 900 years. • Indulge in a delightful lunch at Koto, a non-profit restaurant and hospitality program that empowers local children with valuable restaurant skills for future employment. (B,L)

• Journey through the lush countryside from Hanoi to Hon Gai, the entrance to Ha Long Bay—an enchanting UNESCO World Heritage Site. This bay, nestled in the Gulf of Tonkin, is adorned with over 3,000 limestone islands sculpted by the gentle touch of water. • Upon arrival, board an overnight cruise to venture into the bay's hidden gems—explore tunnels, caves, pristine beaches, and floating villages. (B,L,D) Indulge in a massage or spa treatment at your leisure.

• Rise early to partake in a tai chi demonstration on the Sun Deck at sunrise. • Continue exploring the bay before disembarking in the late morning. • Transfer privately to Hanoi for your flight to Danang. • Upon arrival, transfer to the charming trading town of Hoi An, a harmonious blend of Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, and French influences, preserved in all its glory. (B)

• Begin the day with a guided walking tour of Hoi An Ancient Town, encompassing an ancient merchant house, the Hoi An Museum, a Chinese assembly Hall, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. • Savor the flavors of Hoi An by trying Cao Lau, an exclusive dish featuring smoky, chewy noodles made solely in this town. • Afterward, embark on a scenic cruise along the Thu Bon River, passing through untouched landscapes before meeting a local farmer. (B, L)

Delight in a full day of leisure. (B) Relish a day of freedom to explore at your own pace. You can unwind on the beach, embark on a captivating full-day excursion to historic Hue, or discover traditional pottery and wood carving villages.

Transfer to nearby Danang for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, still affectionately referred to as Saigon by many. (B)

• Embark on a private guided walking tour of the city's renowned historic landmarks. Traverse the heart of the city along Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat), passing by iconic sites such as the Rex Hotel, Ho Chi Minh Square, the Municipal Theatre, Central Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral. • Immerse yourself in history with a visit to the poignant War Remnants Museum, followed by an exploration of the vibrant Ben Thanh Market, the city's largest and oldest market. (B, L)

Today, partake in a half-day private guided excursion to the Cu Chi tunnels, an extraordinary underground network spanning over 120 miles, once utilized by the Viet Cong as a strategic hideout during the war. (B) Indulge in the delightful flavors of Vietnamese iced coffee or unwind at one of the city's iconic rooftop bars.

Fly to Siem Reap, your gateway to the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor. Constructed between the 9th and 13th centuries, these temples stand as unparalleled remnants of ancient civilizations. (B)

• Embark on a private guided tour that commences at the impeccably preserved Angkor Wat, a magnificent temple dedicated to the Hindu deity Vishnu. • Proceed to Angkor Thom to behold the captivating Bayon Temple. This Buddhist sanctuary showcases 200 captivating faces intricately carved into 54 towers. (B, L) You may opt for an enchanting Apsara dinner show, featuring traditional Khmer music and dance, or immerse yourself in the excitement of Phare, The Cambodian Circus.

• Continue your exploration of the Angkor temple complex with a private guided tour. • Begin at the remarkable Banteay Srei, a distinct small temple crafted from red sandstone and dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. On your return, pause at a local school to engage with the children. • Next, venture to Ta Prohm, an untouched temple adorned with lush jungle and intertwining tree roots that permeate the ancient ruins. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. (B) Delve further into the temple complex or embark on a captivating cruise on Tonle Sap Lake to discover a floating village.

Your remarkable journey concludes with breakfast this morning. (B)