Cultural Enlightenment in Vietnam and Cambodia: Cruise the Mekong

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 12^th 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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Travel as Kings and Queens of Old – by River Cruising

                                                   

In ancient times, merchants, musicians, Kings and Queens traveled throughout the lands by various means.  The one considered most luxurious was river cruising. This allowed them to see the heart of the country while traveling in style and security. In modern times, river cruising still provides the elegant lifestyle, all while providing a closer look and greater access to small towns and sites that sea going ships do not provide.

Unlike regular sea going cruise lines that sail around the exterior of countries, river cruising meanders through the heart of the country. Travel on historic and romantic rivers like the Rhine, Danube, Volga, Amazon, Nile and Mekong, you still have the benefit of unpacking only once but stopping at many destinations along your journey. The villages, cities and scenery are the destination – not the ship, with itineraries as varied as the rivers with focused excursions like Christmas Markets, Wine Tastings, Culinary Pairings, Gardens, Castles and Museums. River cruising offers the ability to walk off the ship and be in the heart of the city within steps. Because of their small size (8- 150 passenger) you rarely wait to get off or on the ship or need to take a tender, and seldom experience rough water.

                                    

Who is River Cruising ideal for?

• People who like the idea of unpacking once but visiting multiple destinations
• People who enjoy cruising and want to explore further inland
• People who like a laid back environment
• People who appreciate a good value

Who is River Cruising not ideal for?

• People who like having casinos and large workout facilities
• If you have difficulties using stairs some lines do not have elevators, so be aware when booking

Have you tried River Cruising yet?

Images: Courtesy of Uniworld Cruises & Afloat in France by Orient Express