Have you ever thought of cruising the Mekong River in Vietnam?
Did the name “Vietnam” cause you to pause?
Many people don’t have Vietnam or Cambodia on their vacation lists because of the past and common misconceptions of what both countries are like. The truth is that Vietnam and Cambodia are just as safe as any other place, and are an amazing travel experience. River cruising is becoming especially popular there—in fact, river cruise providers are launching more and more ships because they have a tremendous response from travelers.
Following are just a few cultural and scenic highlights from a typical river cruise from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City along the Mekong River. Imagine yourself among the rich culture and breathtaking beauty as you cruise from the hustle and bustle of Vietnam to the serenity of Cambodia.
Siem Reap
Siem Reap is the entryway to Angkor, one of the most important archeological sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While in Angkor, don’t miss one of the most significant and majestic 12th century Khmer temples, Angkor Wat. The temple ruins are fascinating, and you’ll be mesmerized by their intricate stone carvings. Phnom Kulen National Park is considered the birthplace of the Khmer Empire, and you’ll see more carvings, as well as spectacular waterfalls and meandering streams.
Hanoi
You’ll love the intimate charm where old meets new in this thousand-year-old city. The Temple of Literature is a classic example of Vietnamese architecture with its maze of stunning courtyards. Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and discover the cultural heritage of Vietnam’s 50+ ethnic groups. If you choose, you can tour the infamous “Hanoi Hilton,” where American POWs were held during the Vietnam War, and the Ho Chi Minh Memorial, dedicated to Vietnam’s most famous leader.
Hanoi’s old town area is best explored via a passenger bicycle known as cyclo. Here you will see and feel the city’s French influence in stately mansions and lush landscaping. You’ll be fascinated by the endless market stalls, offering everything from the finest silk to stark gravestones.
Ho Chi Minh City
Enjoy French colonial architecture at its finest in the historic center of the capital formerly known as Saigon. As you walk along Dong Khoi Street, you’ll see the historic city hall, the regal Notre-Dame Basilica and the magnificent Emperor Jade Pagoda. Discover the Vietnamese point of view on the war with a visit to the War Remnants Museum, but be prepared for a plain, somewhat blunt portrayal of the events.
Phnom Penh
Take a cyclo and explore Cambodia’s capital in style. Taking their inspiration from ancient Khmer architecture, the French built the stunning Royal Palace with the Silver Pagoda. An excursion to the Tuol Sleng detention center is a sobering yet captivating experience. Tuol Sleng is the former high school in which thousands of victims of the vicious Khmer Rouge regime died.
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