Simply Southern Indochina 10 Days

Embark on an early morning train ride followed by a scheduled bus journey to the captivating city of Siem Reap in Cambodia. Although the transportation will change at the border, our Thai leader will guide you through the crossing, and our Cambodian Tour leader will join you for the rest of the trip. Travel in comfort on a local bus as you continue your expedition to Siem Reap.

Today is dedicated to discovering the awe-inspiring temple complex of Angkor, a testament to the rich history spanning six centuries from the 9th to the 15th century. With no set activities, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace. Your tour leader can assist in organizing any visits you desire. Consider exploring by bicycle or hiring a tuk-tuk to navigate the sites. Top choices include the magnificent Angkor Wat, the fortified city of Angkor Thom with its enigmatic giant faces at the Bayon, and the atmospheric Ta Prohm, known for its intertwining tree roots and famous as a Tomb Raider filming location. You may also opt to take a boat ride along the Roluos River to visit the floating villages of Kompong Phluk and explore the flooded forest and expansive Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. For those interested in Cambodia's more recent history, a visit to the Landmine Museum near Banteay Srei Temple provides a poignant glimpse into the country's violent past and offers support to landmine victims.

Today is dedicated to further exploration of the captivating jungle temple complex of Angkor.

Embark on a scenic journey from Siem Reap to Battambang, traveling by public bus for approximately 3 hours. Along the route, you will pass through rural villages, tracing the path once traveled by Thai and Khmer Rouge soldiers during periods of conquest and conflict. Battambang, surprisingly Cambodia's second-largest town, exudes a relaxed atmosphere with its abundance of colonial villas and leafy streets. Upon arrival, depending on the timing, you may have the opportunity to explore the town's traditional temples and French-colonial architecture.

We embark on a scenic 6-hour journey to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. Phnom Penh, nestled at the convergence of the Sap, Mekong, and Bassac Rivers, showcases a captivating blend of ancient heritage and colonial influences. Its tree-lined boulevards and colonial villas coexist with remnants of a tumultuous past. As the Cambodian capital since the 15th century, Phnom Penh's origins are rooted in the legend of four Buddha statues that washed ashore and were discovered by a woman named Penh. These statues found their home in the 14th-century Wat Phnom, situated on a small hill at the city's northern end. Upon arrival, you'll have time to freshen up before joining your tour leader for a brief walking tour, acquainting yourself with the city's highlights.

Today, you have the freedom to delve deeper into the captivating city of Phnom Penh at your own pace. Immerse yourself in its rich history and culture by visiting noteworthy attractions such as the National Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Angkor statues. Don't miss the grandeur of the French-built Royal Palace, an architectural masterpiece adorned with golden nagas, vibrant tiles, and captivating scenes from the Ramayana on its ceilings. For a more somber experience, you can choose to visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the infamous "Killing Fields" of Choeung Ek. These haunting sites bear witness to the atrocities committed under the Khmer Rouge regime, serving as poignant reminders of the 17,000 lives lost between 1975 and 1978. Please note that these locations can be distressing for some individuals. Alternatively, you may opt for a serene Mekong River excursion or explore Phnom Penh's vibrant markets, such as the renowned Psar Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market), known for its textiles, jewelry, and antiques. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, wander the lively streets of Phnom Penh, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps enjoying a refreshing beverage at one of the city's charming colonial riverfront bars.

Today, we embark on a captivating journey to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. We begin by transferring to the bus station, where we board a non-stop public bus that will take us to our destination. The approximately 6.5-hour unescorted ride offers a chance to witness the changing landscapes as we cross the border at Bavet (Cambodia) and Moc Bai (Vietnam). Arriving in Ho Chi Minh City, we reunite with our Vietnamese tour leader. Situated on the Saigon River, north of the Mekong Delta, Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant metropolis and the largest city in Vietnam. It beautifully blends tradition and modernity, where traditional pagodas and bustling markets coexist with the dynamism of Vietnam's emerging entrepreneurial spirit. Depending on our arrival time, we will embark on a brief orientation walk, exploring some of the city's iconic landmarks. These may include the majestic Hotel de Ville, which now serves as the People's Committee headquarters, the striking Notre Dame Cathedral with its Romanesque architecture, and the impressive French-style General Post Office building. If time constraints prevent us from doing the tour upon arrival, we will schedule it for the following morning instead.

Today, you have the freedom to select from various enticing options. You can delve into history by visiting the remarkable Reunification Palace and the poignant War Remnants Museum, which provides a thought-provoking glimpse into the consequences of the Vietnam War. Alternatively, you may immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Binh Tay Market, the largest wholesale market in southern Vietnam, offering a fantastic opportunity to wander and engage with the friendly locals.

After enjoying breakfast at our hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, our tour concludes. There are no scheduled activities for the day, allowing you the flexibility to depart at your preferred time. If your flight departs later in the day, you can utilize the luggage storage facilities at our hotel. For those with extra time, an excursion to the renowned Cu Chi Tunnels is highly recommended. Initially constructed during the French occupation, these tunnels gained notoriety during the Vietnam War as a remarkable underground command base for 10,000 Viet Cong soldiers and played a significant role in the Tet Offensive. Please note that if you require a complimentary airport transfer, your departure should be from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), which is a convenient 30-minute drive away.