Journey along the Mekong – Cai Be – Sa Dec 18 Days

Embark on an insightful journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, delving into the history and ingenuity of the Viet Cong soldiers who found refuge in this intricate underground network. Return to the city for a leisurely afternoon. For dinner, take your pick from our Scenic Freechoice Dining options. Hop on a thrilling Vespa ride to savor the flavors of local Vietnamese cuisine, or dine at the charming Secret Garden restaurant, offering an authentic Vietnamese dining experience. Alternatively, indulge in international cuisine at Nineteen Restaurant or SHRI Restaurant and Lounge, boasting breathtaking panoramic views from its lofty perch atop the Centec Tower.

Begin your day with a visit to the War Museum and Reunification Palace, steeped in historical significance and showcasing the dramatic events of the past. After lunch, board a coach to My Tho, where you will be greeted by the magnificent Scenic Spirit. Enjoy a cocktail reception hosted by your knowledgeable Cruise Director and take a leisurely stroll to familiarize yourself with the ship's amenities. Indulge in a delectable welcome dinner before settling into your luxurious suite. Throughout the evening, your dedicated personal butler is on hand to cater to your needs. Experience a tranquil 4-hour sail to Cai Be, where the ship will anchor for the night.

Start your day with a luxurious champagne breakfast before embarking on your chosen Scenic Freechoice excursion. You have various options to immerse yourself in the local culture, whether it's gliding through a floating market, visiting local cottage industries and historic houses, enjoying a delightful morning tea at Le Longanier, or participating in a hands-on cocktail/mocktail making class on the Scenic Spirit. After your morning activity, return to the ship for a delicious lunch while sailing to Sa Dec. Explore the vibrant wet market, interact with the sellers, and visit the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, the inspiration behind the novel "L'Amant." Take a refreshing dip in the pool as the sun sets before the ship embarks on a 6-hour journey to Tan Chau. Enjoy a delightful dinner onboard and retire to your suite for a peaceful cruise along the Mekong River.

Begin your day with rejuvenating activities like gym workouts, morning yoga, or a relaxing sauna session before embarking on a Scenic Freechoice excursion near Tan Chau. Choose from various options to explore the natural and cultural wonders of the area. Discover the tranquil Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, immerse yourself in the local farming community on Evergreen Island, or take a Xe Loi ride to the renovated Cao Dai temple. Alternatively, embark on a speedboat journey to Chau Doc, visit the Tay An temple, explore the Vinh Te canal, and witness life along the riverfront. After lunch, enjoy sailing towards the Vietnamese-Cambodian border, taking time to unwind at the Wellness Centre or Beauty Salon. As the ship clears immigration, indulge in a themed dinner accompanied by a lion dance performance on the Sun Deck. Prepare for an overnight sail to Phnom Penh as you bid farewell to Vietnam.

Embrace the captivating essence of Cambodia as you arrive in the vibrant capital of Phnom Penh. Immerse yourself in the country's rich history, culture, and awe-inspiring temples. After breakfast, venture into Phnom Penh for your Scenic Freechoice excursions. Choose to visit the somber Killing Fields and tour Tuol Sleng Prison, gaining a profound understanding of Cambodia's tragic past under the Khmer Rouge regime. Alternatively, indulge in a hands-on cooking class, where you'll explore the local market, select ingredients with a chef, and prepare your own Cambodian lunch. Another option is to take a remork, a local-style tuk-tuk, to discover the French architecture and history of Phnom Penh, with a stop at the unique Central Market for shopping. Enjoy lunch at an NGO-sponsored restaurant that supports street kids in the hospitality industry. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure, or you can join an optional Scenic Freechoice excursion to the silversmith village of Kho Chen, renowned for its exquisite silver and copper craftsmanship passed down through generations. In the evening, embark on the Phnom Penh by City Lights tour, providing insights into the capital's nightlife. Conclude the evening with an exclusive distillery tour and tasting experience, offering a glimpse behind closed doors.

Embark on a short coach journey to Oudong, the former capital of Cambodia. Immerse yourself in the vibrant life of the monastery, where monks and nuns reside. With luck, you might even participate in one of the enchanting festivals or customs celebrated here. In the afternoon, discover the opulence of Phnom Penh at the Royal Palace, including the renowned Silver Pagoda, an absolute must-visit attraction. As evening approaches, dress elegantly and join us for the Scenic Sunset Drinks cocktail reception on the Sun Deck, accompanied by the mesmerizing lights of Phnom Penh. Relax and savor the breathtaking scenery as the ship sets sail towards Oknha Tey, also known as Silk Island.

Begin your day with a fascinating exploration of Oknha Tey, an island dedicated to the intricate art of silk weaving. Travel via tuk-tuk to a local farm and gain insights into the silk production process. Return to Scenic Spirit for a delightful lunch and enjoy some leisure time. Relax by the pool, sip on a refreshing cocktail, and take a refreshing swim. Our next stop is Angkor Ban, where you'll discover its historic rural wooden houses that miraculously withstood the Khmer Rouge era. Visit a local school that teaches English to students after their regular classes. Upon returning to the ship, we'll continue our journey to Kampong Cham. Immerse yourself in Cambodian culture by learning the art of making and wearing traditional Cambodian scarves with our talented team.

Embark on a memorable encounter at Wat Hanchey, an ancient hilltop pagoda and monastery, where you'll meet and engage with novice monks. Ascend to the hilltop to marvel at breathtaking panoramic views of the cruise surroundings. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you receive a monk's blessing and learn the art of prayer in a Buddhist pagoda, followed by a ceremonial experience that supports the daily meal of resident monks. In Kampong Cham, choose from a range of Scenic Freechoice excursions. Option one offers an exploration of local folklore, visiting Phnom Pros (Man Hill) and Wat Nokor. Phnom Pros, with its Buddha garden, holds a unique history from traditional legends to its use as a Killing Field during the Khmer Rouge era. Wat Nokor Bachey showcases a blend of Angkorian and contemporary architecture. This enriching excursion can be completed in under two hours, leaving ample time to independently explore or enjoy the luxurious amenities of the Scenic Spirit. Alternatively, delve into Kampong Cham's history and industries with a scenic drive past French colonial-era shop houses and the bustling Central Market. Visit a French-established rubber plantation and witness the rubber processing at a factory, followed by a visit to a village known for its cultivation of betel nut—a prominent element of Cambodian culture. For a glimpse into rural village life, opt for a visit to a village supported by a French NGO, focusing on sustainability, sanitation, and recycling education programs. Return to the Scenic Spirit and unwind while admiring the mesmerizing sunset over the Cambodian skyline before indulging in a captivating farewell dinner with the crew.

Embark on a captivating journey to Siem Reap, with stops at Kampong Tom and the remarkable Angkorian bridge in Kampong Kdei. Siem Reap embodies a harmonious blend of ancient and contemporary architecture, where traditional charm intertwines with modern developments. Our exquisite hotel in Siem Reap will transport you back in time, offering three nights of unparalleled luxury. With its splendid French-inspired architecture, authentic local furnishings, and impeccable service from the attentive staff, you'll feel like royalty. The hotel boasts outstanding amenities, ensuring an unforgettable stay. Enrich your evening with a visit to the vibrant Cambodian Phare Circus. As a VIP guest with premium reserved seating, you'll be enthralled by a breathtaking performance that transcends the boundaries of a traditional circus. The talented artists skillfully combine theatre, music, dance, and modern circus arts to narrate captivating Cambodian stories, encompassing historical, folk, and contemporary themes.

Begin your second day in Siem Reap with a delightful champagne buffet breakfast at the hotel. Embrace the freedom of choice with Scenic's Freechoice excursions, offering a range of captivating options. Explore the enchanting Banteay Srei Temple, renowned for its pink sandstone and dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva. Discover the Landmine Museum, established in 1997 with the mission of making the country safer by clearing landmines. Alternatively, visit the Senteurs d'Angkor workshop and engage in hands-on activities to create your own unique local souvenir. Experience the allure of Tonlé Sap (seasonal), a picturesque UNESCO biosphere reserve, as you sail through the famous floating village and witness the lifestyle of its inhabitants. For a different perspective, choose to ascend in a tethered balloon and marvel at the contrasting blend of traditional and modern Siem Reap from above, capturing stunning photographs of the iconic Angkor Wat below. In the afternoon, all guests will embark on an exploration of Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious monument. Initially built as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu by the Khmer Empire, it later transformed into a Buddhist temple in the 12th century. The afternoon light creates a magical ambiance, ideal for capturing idyllic snapshots of this monumental structure. After a day filled with adventure, you have the freedom to indulge in shopping at Siem Reap's night markets or venture to Pub Street, both within walking distance or a short tuk-tuk ride from your hotel.

Begin your day with an enchanting experience as you witness the breathtaking sunrise over the majestic Angkor Wat. Afterward, indulge in a delightful champagne breakfast at a special location near a temple, where the food is prepared by a local bakery school supported by an NGO sponsored by Scenic. Immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere of the jungle-covered Ta Prohm Temple and explore the captivating Angkor Thom, home to the impressive Bayon Temple with its multiple faces. In the afternoon, take the opportunity to further explore the vibrant markets of Siem Reap or unwind and relax at your luxurious hotel after the early start. In the evening, prepare for an extraordinary and exclusive event that must be experienced firsthand to fully appreciate its grandeur. Accompanied by your Tour Directors and the Scenic team, you will be treated to a private gala-themed dinner at Prasat Kravan, a small 10th-century temple adorned with reddish brick towers on a serene terrace. This exceptional evening includes a delightful Khmer cuisine, free-flowing drinks, and a mesmerizing performance by Apsara dancers, all set against the backdrop of candlelit temple ruins. It is a truly unforgettable conclusion to your time in Siem Reap.

Bid farewell to Siem Reap as you check out and transfer to Siem Reap Airport. Embark on a flight to Luang Prabang, the spiritual capital of Laos, where you will enjoy a three-night Special Stay. Immerse yourself in luxury at this exquisite property, perfectly located in the UNESCO heritage city. With its lush green surroundings and island-inspired decor, this colonial-style building offers an exceptional stay. In the evening, take a leisurely walk to the summit of Mount Phousi, the highest mountain in Luang Prabang, and witness a mesmerizing sunset over the historical town.

Discover the main highlights of the city today, including the former Royal Palace, now transformed into the National Museum, as well as the renowned Wat Xieng Thong, one of Laos' oldest and most significant temples, and Wat Mai, the largest temple in the city. Later, embark on a delightful two-hour cruise along the Mekong River to explore the enchanting Pak Ou Caves, also known as Tam Ting, which house thousands of gold Buddha statues nestled within limestone cliffs. This captivating attraction is a must-visit in Laos. On your return journey by road, make a stop at Ban Xang Hay, a village known for its expertise in producing rice wine. In the evening, enjoy your leisure time, allowing you to explore the renowned night market and find perfect souvenirs to bring back home.

Prepare for a truly captivating and empowering experience on the streets of Luang Prabang. Witness the morning ritual as the serene local monks embark on their alms collection, their silent movements creating a profound atmosphere. Afterward, return to the hotel for a delicious breakfast before commencing your day's adventures. Embark on a journey to the stunning Kuang Si waterfalls, a series of breathtaking cascades and tranquil swimming spots nestled within the lush jungle. On the way back to town, make a stop at a charming village inhabited by one of the region's ethnic minorities, where you'll have the opportunity to learn about their rich traditions and vibrant culture. Enrich your day by immersing yourself in the spiritual essence of the local culture through a traditional Baci ceremony. This ancient ritual holds great significance in Laos, symbolizing joyous occasions such as weddings, births, and welcoming guests. It is a heartfelt expression of goodwill and bestowing good luck upon others. According to Lao beliefs, each person has 32 spirits constituting their spiritual essence, and the Baci ceremony is conducted to call back any wandering spirits into the body. During the ceremony, exquisite flower trays and delicacies are prepared, which you will touch while a Buddhist mantra resonates in the air. Following the chanting, cotton threads are gently tied around your wrist, accompanied by a personalized blessing, creating a meaningful connection to the local customs and traditions.

Absorb the breathtaking vistas from Mt Phousi, a majestic 100m-high hill nestled in the heart of the old town peninsula. Delight in panoramic views of the Mekong River on one side and the Nam Khan River on the other. Journey to the local train station for an exhilarating ride on the new high-speed train to Vang Vieng. Indulge in the beauty of your riverside resort, offering a stunning panorama of mountains and countryside from the pool lounge or your private balcony.

Prepare to be enchanted by the natural wonders and scenic landscapes of Vang Vieng. Explore the mesmerizing turquoise "Blue Lagoons" and the awe-inspiring Chang Caves, discovered by villagers seeking shelter in the depths of the forest during times of conflict. Resume your high-speed train journey to Vientiane, the capital city adorned with a captivating blend of French colonial architecture and Buddhist temples. Upon arrival, pay a visit to COPE (The Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise), an organization dedicated to providing access to physical rehabilitation services for individuals with mobility-related disabilities in Laos. Later, settle into your historic hotel, meticulously restored to its former imperial glory, showcasing the essence of classical elegance, gracious service, and French colonial charm. Conclude your remarkable journey with a delightful farewell dinner, where cherished memories will be shared and treasured.

Indulge in a delectable breakfast before embarking on a captivating morning tour of the capital. Explore the iconic Pha That Luang, a magnificent gold-covered Buddhist stupa that stands proudly in the city center. Marvel at the grandeur of the Patuxay Monument, a war memorial commemorating the struggle for independence. Bid Laos farewell, cherishing the precious memories you have created, as you board your flight to Bangkok, where your remarkable journey concludes upon arrival. Please ensure your departure flight from Bangkok is scheduled for after 03:00 PM. Kindly note that this itinerary serves as a guide and may be subject to operational adjustments due to factors such as water levels. Consequently, changes to the cruising experience and itinerary may occur. The designated hotels are indicative and subject to potential modifications.