Vietnam & Cambodia

Vietnam & Cambodia Delights

Vietnam & Cambodia Delights

Cambodia is a Southeast Asian nation whose landscape spans low-lying plains, the Mekong Delta, mountains and Gulf of Thailand coastline. Phnom Penh, its capital, is home to the art deco Central Market, glittering Royal Palace and the National Museum’s historical and archaeological exhibits. In the country’s northwest are the ruins of Angkor Wat, a massive stone temple complex built during the Khmer Empire. Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country known for its beaches, rivers, Buddhist pagodas and bustling cities. Hanoi, the capital . Ho Chi Minh, via a huge marble mausoleum. Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) has French colonial landmarks, plus Vietnamese War history museums and the Củ Chi tunnels, used by Viet Cong soldiers.

Day 01 – ARRIVAL PHNOM PENH – CITY TOUR (L/D)
  • On arrival Phnom Penh, pick up by our guide and driver from the airport and transfer to the hotel.
  • Lunch at hotel (set menu). Standard check-in time is 14h00/15h00.
  • Early check-in upon availability.
  • This afternoon, we start our city tour via Sihanouk and the Sothearos Blvd, passing Independence Monument, Building of Naga World Casino & Chaktomuk Conference Hall (all visit from outside).
  • We then visit the impressive colorful Khmer-style Royal Palace complex build in 1866 by the Predecessors of King Norodom. Nearby is Silver pagoda (the emerald Buddha temple), where contain plenty of Buddha Statues decorated and made by gold, diamond, gemstone and silver.
  • Continue visit Phsar Toul Tom Phuong “Russian Market” where you could find a wide array of souvenirs, clothing & other goods.
  • Next, we head to visit Wat Phnom “Mountain Pagoda” is a Buddhist temple that symbolizes the name of Phnom Penh, located on the hill. According to legend, the first pagoda on this site was erected in 1372 to house four statues of Buddha deposited here by the waters of the Mekong River and discovered by Lady Penh.
  • Wat Phnom is the most popular place for local people come to play healthy spot or praying for their good luck as well as admire the sundown.
  • Dinner at an Indian restaurant (buffet).
  • Overnight at hotel
Day 02 – PHNOM PENH – DRIVE TO SIEM REAP (B/L/D)
  • After breakfast and check out hotel, 10h00, we transfer to Siem Reap for 6 – 7 hours (including lunch time).
  • Our first stop on the way is at Skuon town for Pizza lunch.
  • Continue our drive to through villages and rice fields dotted with palm sugar and Khmer houses.
  • Our last stop is at Kampong Kdei to visit a beautiful ancient archaeological bridge of Angkor period “Naga Bridge”. Arrival Siem Reap, check in hotel.
  • 1700 – 1900, visit Pub street.
  • 1-hour traditional massage.
  • Dinner at an Indian restaurant (buffet).
  • Overnight at hotel
Day 03 – SIEM REAP – FULL DAY ANGKOR TEMPLES – (B/L/D)
  • After breakfast, we visit Angkor Wat temple, the Cambodia’s ancient temple is one of the wonders of the oriental world.
  • Masterpieces of decorative details as well as of architectural style, its awe-inspiring ruins survive as testament to the spectacular achievements of
  • Southeast Asia’s greatest civilization. It is a replica of the universe according to the Hindu mythology. It is composed by the Mount Meru, surrounded by the continents and the oceans. Its extraordinary bas-reliefs, describe some Khmer epics and myths.
  • Angkor Wat’s five famous towers rise into the sky, a geometrical arrangement of numerous galleries, adorned with beliefs and the stone images of celestial Apsara dancers, as well as portals, chambers and courtyards.
  • Return to Siem Reap for Lunch at an Indian restaurant (buffet)
  • This afternoon, we explore South Gate of Angkor Thom known as Big Angkor, 3km2 walled and moated royal city and was the last capital of the Angkorian Empire, the famous Bayon Temple was an architectural muddle, in part because it was constructed in a somewhat piecemeal fashion for over a century.
  • Terrace of the Elephants is an impressive, two and a half meters tall, 300-meter-long terrace wall adorned with carved elephants and gradual that spans the heart of Angkor Thom in front of Baphuon – huge temple mountain in the heart of Angkor Thom, Royal Palace Area and Phimeanakas – impressive rite and sandstone pyramid. Terrace of the Leper King is at the north end of the Terrace of the Elephants, a double terrace wall with deeply carved nag as, demons and other mythological beings.
  • Last visit Ta Prohm temple which is a wonderful combination of human genius and natural beauty! Giant trees have grown here for centuries!
  • Dinner at an Indian restaurant (buffet).
  • Overnight in Siem Reap.
Day 04 – SIEM REAP – PHNOM KULEN – FLIGHT TO SAIGON (B/L/D)
  • After breakfast, we visit the Kulen National Park, which contains many sites of natural and historical interest.
  • A magnificent waterfall dominates the forest terrain and draws countless local visitors on weekends and national holidays. In the nearby River of 1000 Lingas, thousands of linga stands remain submerged in the water.
  • The cult of worshipping these phallic representations of the god Shiva was established by Jayavarman II and continued through the reigns of innumerable Angkorian kings.
  • A short walk from the waterfall is Wat Preah Ang Thom, a functioning wat that contains one of the largest Buddha statues in the country.
  • The statue is housed atop a massive boulder and is accessible via a long flight of steps. A viewing platform at the top affords sweeping views of the surrounding jungle and hillsides.
  • We get our first sight of the Phnom Kulen waterfall as it tumbles down the rocks. Optional plunge into the pools and cool off from the midday sun before our return trip to Siem Reap.
  • Arrival Siem Reap, Lunch at an Indian restaurant (buffet).
  • This afternoon, we visit Satcha, the first center in Cambodia that incubates local artisans who specialize in handicrafts.
  • The center features six amazing workshops constructed entirely with Cambodian bamboo from Kampong Cham.
  • These workshops accommodate over 50 artisans and cover a wide range of specialties, including stone and wood carving, lacquer, painting, carpentry, jewelry, water hyacinth weaving, rattan, bamboo, leather carving, silk and cotton weaving, and sewing.
  • Transfer with our guide and driver to the airport for our flight to Saigon.
  • On arrival, pick up by our guide and driver from the airport and transfer to the city center.
  • Dinner at an Indian restaurant (buffet).
  • Proceed to check in hotel.
  • Overnight at hotel
Day 05 – SAIGON – MY THO – SAIGON – CITY TOUR (B/L/D)
  • After breakfast, we transfer to visit My Tho, the homeland of coconut. On arrival in My Tho, we embark on the motorboat, enjoy cruising on the mighty Mekong River and viewing the life to the local people live along the river banks.
  • We arrive at one of 4 islands in the area. There we will taste the honey tea and see the local people produce the coconut candy milk and of course we also can try it, or stroll in the garden where the locals feed honeybee.
  • Enjoy the fresh tropical fruits served in the heart of the garden accompanied by traditional southern Vietnamese folk music at the plantation.
  • Embark on the small sampan boats rowed by the local people thru the small canals covered by water coconut trees.
  • Lunch at a local restaurant (set menu) including the Mekong’s signature – deep-fried Elephant-Ear fish.
  • This afternoon, we take the boat back to the mainland then drive back to Saigon. Stop on the way to visit Vinh Trang pagoda, one of the biggest pagodas in the region.
  • The beautiful structure features a mixture of Chinese, Vietnamese and Angkor (Cambodian) architectural styles. We then visit Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica (outside due to construction), a neo-Roman cathedral built by the colonial French with materials entirely imported from Marseilles, and Saigon Central Post Office, which was designed and constructed in the early 20th Century by the famous French architect Gustave Eiffel.
  • Pass by classic European-style landmarks such as the ornate City Hall (Hotel De Ville), the old Opera House (both may only be viewed from the outside), and take photo of Reunification Palace from outside.
  • End our tour at the central Ben Thanh Market, where vendors display a vast array of goods and handicrafts, appealing to every taste.
  • Dinner at an Indian restaurant (buffet).
  • Overnight at hotel
Day 06 – SAIGON – CU CHI TUNNELS – FLIGHT TO DANANG (B/L/D)
  • After breakfast and check out hotel, we visit to Cu Chi tunnels – the network of over 200km of tunnels became legendary when they played a vital role in the War.
  • In their heyday, the tunnels were functioning underground cities including numerous trap doors, specially constructed living areas, storage facilities, weapons factories, field hospitals, command centers & kitchens.
  • After a short introduction video showing how the tunnels were constructed, we’re invited to enter a section of the tunnels to witness the secrets of the tunnels firsthand.
  • Our guide will also show us various mantraps employed from this period, the remains of an American tank and numerous B52 bomb craters.
  • There is also the opportunity to fire an M60, M16 or AK47 rifle at the range next to the tunnel complex (bullets to be purchased on spot).
  • Lunch at a local restaurant (set menu).
  • Transfer with our guide and driver to the airport for our flight to Danang.
  • On arrival, pick up by our guide and driver from the airport and transfer to check in hotel.
  • Dinner at an Indian restaurant (buffet).
  • Overnight at hotel.
Day 07 - DANANG – BANA HILLS & GOLDEN BRIDGE – CITY TOUR (B/L/D)
  • After breakfast, transfer to Ba Na hills and take Cable Car which gains 5 world scores to Ba Na hills station. Reach the French-inspired hilltop resort, we visit the Old Villas, French Stable, and Tinh Tam Garden with our English-speaking guide for a walk down the hills’ memory lane.
  • Admire the lush vegetation and the rich terrains of Truong Son mountain that stretches to the East Sea from the iconic Golden Bridge.
  • Just a few steps away from the village stands the Linh Ung Pagoda, home to the 27-meter high Buddha statue.
  • See an impressive facade of traditional Vietnamese architecture when we visit the pagoda.
  • Next, head to Loc Uyen Garden and Quan Am Pavilion for a walk through well-manicured landscapes that serve as gorgeous backdrops for photoshoots.
  • We reach Nui Chua Peak, marvel at the natural reserve’s beauty and remember to snap a photo or two.
  • Have lunch at Ba Na Hills restaurant (Vietnamese buffet with added Indian items).
  • Our next stop will be the Fantasy Park, an amusement park inspired by French chateaus and palaces.
  • Hop on a rollercoaster and make it a memorable one by getting our pictures taken while riding. Have fun with exciting rides fit for all ages.
  • For our last destination, drop by Linh Chua Linh Tu Temple for a glimpse of Vietnam’s Buddhist culture.
  • Tour the temple complex, where a 9-story pagoda and teahouse sit 1,487 meters above sea level.
  • Please note: Wax Museum entrance fee (USD 5/pax), Debay Wine Cellar entrance fee (USD 5/pax for Silver ticket, including 1 glass of wine, or cocktail, or fruit juice), coin games at Fantasy Park are not included in the entrance ticket, joining them will be at your own account.
  • Go downhill by cable car and return to Danang. We transfer to visit Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain) for panoramic ocean views and visit the Giant Lady Buddha Statue, the tallest statue in Vietnam.
  • We then visit Han market, which is the most famous traditional market in Danang. The market is ideal for those looking for some Danang’s souvenirs such as icons of Hoian, Danang, Bana Hills and Golden Brige, ceramics and rattan bags with unique designs.
  • Some specialties that can be found in Han market include local dried foods, Ly Son garlic, Chili paste, dried rice crackers. At the front of the market are fruit stalls, abundant with tropical option from bananas, to mangoes, durian, and jackfruit.
  • Dinner at an Indian restaurant (buffet).
  • After dinner, we visit Dragon Bridge – Showcasing the city’s rise, the bridge is a significant landmark of Danang.
  • Every weekend at 9:00pm, the dragon breathes fire and water, a fantastic photo opportunity.
  • Overnight at hotel
Day 08 – DANANG – FLIGHT TO HANOI – CITY TOUR (B/L/D)
  • After breakfast and check out hotel, pick up by our guide and driver and transfer to the airport for our flight to Hanoi.
  • On arrival, pick up by our guide and driver from the airport and transfer to Ninh Binh – the perfect place to relax and unwind while soaking up the landscape of Vietnam.
  • Lunch at an Indian restaurant (buffet).
  • This afternoon, we start the 2hour-boat trip to visit Tam Coc. Known as “Halong Bay on land”, Tam Coc are three limestone caves stretching along Ngo Dong river.
  • The boat trip is a nice journey along the river with peaceful scenery of Limestone Mountains, rice paddy and the site of some temples along the way from Hang Ca (first cave) to Hang Hai (second cave) and Hang Ba (third cave).
  • We then will drive to Hoa Lu thru tranquil villages to enjoy the daily life of people in Ninh Binh.
  • Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam for 41 years (968 – 1009), of which 12 years was under the Dinh dynasty – King Dinh Tien Hoang, and 29 years later was under the Le dynasty – King Le Dai Hanh.
  • In Hoa Lu now, 2 temples have been built on the ground of the old royal palace, one is dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang, and the other is to King Le Dai Hanh.
  • The visit offers a chance to know more about part of feudal dynasties and historical periods in Vietnamese history. Late afternoon, we return to Hanoi.
  • Dinner at an Indian restaurant (buffet). Then transfer to check in hotel.
  • Overnight at hotel
Day 09 – HANOI – HALONG BAY – OVERNIGHT ON BOARD (B/L/D)
  • After breakfast and check out hotel, we transfer to Halong through Red River delta (3,5 – 4-hour driving .
  • Enjoy the scenery of tranquil villages embellished by peaceful green paddy field on the way.
  • Upon arrival in Halong, we check in the overnight cruise to discover the magnificent beauty of this “Descending-dragon” bay, created by thousands odd-shaped limestone rocks and karst grottoes.
  • Lunch on board
  • This afternoon, we can visit the Grottos, stop for swimming or kayaking (at your own cost), passing floating houses and approach islets to enjoy their beauty in close distance.
  • Back to the cruise, enjoy cooking demonstration (optional) and sunset view from sundeck.
  • Dinner on board
  • Evening attend activities on the boat or relax at your own leisure.
  • Overnight on the  Cruise
Day 10 – HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/BRUNCH/D)
  • Have breakfast on board.This morning, we visit by boat to Luon Cave, a ring-shaped pool inside an island in Halong with absolutely tranquil landscape and emerald water.
  • Back to the Wharf of Halong passing the most densely area with many islands that have been named like the Cock-Fighting Rock, Sail Island, Incense burner rock or Sea Dog Rock.Brunch will be served on board (1 big bottle of 20 liter included for group, other drinks excluded).
  • Note: The cruise itinerary can be changed according to weather conditions.
  • Arrive at Halong Wharf around noon time, pick up by our guide and driver, we transfer through Red River delta.
  • Enjoy the scenery of tranquil villages embellished by peaceful green paddy field in the rural Vietnam on the way.
  • Enjoy shopping at AEON mall, a large-scale shopping mall providing over 12,000 types of products.
  • The first floor includes international fashion outlets: clothes, cosmetics, accessary, sporting goods store, cafes and restaurants.
  • The second floor is comprised of the Real Closet Zone, Lifestyle Zone, Kids Zone and T-Club entertainment.
  • On the third floor, we find “Tini World” – a great indoor playgrounds for kids, and the restaurant zone serving Asian and Vietnamese cuisine.
  • The fourth floor is Entertainment Floor where there are “CGV” – the largest cinema complex in Vietnam, and “Dream Bowling” with 16 modern ball lanes.
  • Arrival at the hotel and check in.
  • Dinner at an Indian restaurant (buffet).
  • Overnight at hotel.
Day 11 – HANOI – DEPARTURE (B)

After breakfast, at leisure until check out hotel and transfer with our guide and driver to the airport for our departure flight. Standard check-out time is 11h00/12h00. Late check-out upon availability. If we have late flight, more sightseeing or shopping transfers can be arranged with extra charge.

At STS, our ethos is simple: we’re not just planners; we’re your dedicated executioners. 

Contact Us

© 2023 Smart Travel Solution – Website Created by Dot Com Designers