Gay Group Trip: Vietnam And Cambodia River Cruise

Once settled in your hotel, your adventure begins at Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s most well-known landmark and the biggest religious settlement in the world no less! Not only this but you’ll be able to discover the many things that the city center of Siem Reap has to offer on a traditional tuk-tuk; in addition to the captivating culture at Banteay Srei and Banteay Samre, two terrific temples dedicated to the Hindu Gods. Your time in Siem Reap goes out with a bang at the tremendous Ta Prohm.

Today you’ll be heading to Angkor Tom for a guided tour of the temple of Bayan. You’ll then walk along Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King to Ta Prohm. This is one of the most spectacular temples in Cambodia. It’s been submerged in the jungle. Tree roots like tentacles envelop the centuries-old building.

After lunch, you’ll head to Banteay Srey, the most artistically accomplished temple in Angkor. Evening at leisure.

After a relaxing morning, you’ll head to Kampong Cham, have lunch, and then embark the ship. You’ll meet the crew, have a welcome briefing and then enjoy a Cambodian meal in the Le Marche Dining Room.

In the morning, you’ll head to the Wat Hanchey monastery and receive a traditional Buddhist Water Blessing. You’ll explore the monastery and then descend 303 steps as you return to the ship.

Over in Angkor Ban, you’ll catch a glimpse of daily life in Cambodia. This will include a visit to a private home. You’ll also visit the local private school and see what a Cambodian school day looks like. As you make our way back to the ship, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos.

Your day begins exploring the grounds of the Royal Palace Complex which is set along the ravishing riverfront after which you’ll visit the Silver Pagoda, home of the Maitreya Buddha and Cambodia’s Emerald Buddha. Following from this you’ll get to see the largest collection of Pre-Angkorian and Angkorian artefacts at the open air National museum and then a relaxed afternoon in Phnom Phen.

Before dinner, you’ll watch a folk dance performance on board the ship.

Today you’ll learn about Cambodia’s darkest chapter. At the Choeung Ek killing fields, you’ll hear about the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge regime. Their bizarre attempt to impose a Marxist worker’s utopia on the country led to mass poverty, killings and torture.

Afternoon at leisure when you return to the ship. After dinner, you’ll have an optional excursion to Phnom Penh’s gay bars.

Today you’ll sail downstream to the Vietnam/Cambodia border. Enjoy the sites of the Mekong River as you cruise to Long Khanh Island.

Start your day with a visit to Gieng Island, renowned for its traditional boat-making village. Embark on a tranquil sampan cruise along untouched canals, taking in the serene surroundings. Explore the historic Phanxico monastery, dating back to 1879, and if available, engage in a meaningful interaction with a local priest.

Upon returning for lunch, set sail for Sa Dec, enjoying a leisurely journey along the picturesque Mekong canals. Depending on water levels, stop at a Cao Dai Temple for a cultural experience. Upon arrival in Sa Dec, visit the former residence of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, the inspiration behind Marguerite Duras’ novel, “L’Amant” (The Lover). Explore the intricate Chinese Temple dedicated to the Huynh Thuy Le Family, complete with a traditional Lion Dance welcome. Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Sa Dec’s bustling market, capturing the essence of local life with its colourful displays of fresh produce and seafood. Conclude the day’s adventures as you sail towards the enchanting Vihn Long area, arriving by evening.

This morning, you board our sampans to visit a traditional rice factory where workers produce rice paper, rice wine, popped rice, and many varieties of traditional candies.

This afternoon, following lunch, you arrive at the Tien Long area, and once again board the classically built sampans to explore the narrow canals and backwaters of this famed region. Tien Loi island is a unique excursion, created for gay group guests only. This untouched island with only a few families settled peacefully on the river. You start visiting the sedge weaving hat, experience how local farmers make the “rooster cages” and decorate bonsais on their gardens and yards. Our next visit to the “tree drafting or transplant” village will be your amazes with lots of gardens drafting “baby trees” on the island. Every year, this island produces millions of small plants, baby trees not only to the Mekong region but the Centre and North of Vietnam. The final “boat rowing” on the untouched canal will be a highlight of the excursion.

In the evening, you’ll gather on the Sun Deck in front of the Le Salon Lounge for a Farewell Reception with the entire crew, before enjoying a Cambodian Farewell Dinner in Le March Dining Room.

Today you’ll say goodbye to the Mekong Navigator and drive to Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll explore the city’s beautiful French colonial architecture and have lunch in a local restaurant. Evening at leisure.

Your time in Ho Chi Minh starts with a terrific tour of the city’s fabulous French Colonial architecture of the Central Post Office and the Notre Dame Cathedral. After which you’ll experience the underground passages with a tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels; followed by a farewell dinner complete with lots of multi-cultural cuisines full of colour and flavour; including classic Vietnamese, more exotic foods and traditional French.

Today your epic adventure comes to an end. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight home.

Positioned at the forefront of the Sun Deck, these two exclusive Grande Suites redefine luxury and space on the Mekong River. Spanning an impressive 915 square feet (85 square meters), these sanctuaries offer unmatched privacy and elegance.

Guests will enjoy the comfort of fixed king beds, the convenience of complimentary laundry services, and the beauty of full French doors opening onto a private panoramic terrace. As the day fades to evening, delight in complimentary canapés delivered directly to your terrace, a signature feature of our Lotus butler service, promising an experience of unparalleled luxury and serenity.

Nestled in the heart of the Sun Deck, the Prestige Suite is a haven of comfort and spacious luxury, sprawling over 548 square feet (51 square meters). With a fixed king bed anchoring the space, this suite epitomises relaxation.

The addition of a private balcony becomes the stage for a serene ritual, where guests can savour complimentary canapés at sunset, courtesy of our esteemed Lotus butler service, blending exclusive service with breathtaking views.

Perched on the Lotus Deck (Upper Deck), the Vista Suite offers an expansive 323 square feet (30 square meters) of elegantly appointed living space. French doors open onto a quaint balcony, setting the perfect scene for guests to unwind in a spacious seating area while basking in the majestic sunsets over the Mekong River.

This suite comes furnished with two twin beds, which can seamlessly convert into a queen bed, ensuring a restful and flexible accommodation experience.

What are the passport and visa requirements?
U.S. and Canadian citizens need a passport valid for six months beyond the final day of travel. Most nationalities require advance tourist visas for Vietnam and Cambodia:

Cambodia: Get e-visa online or a visa on arrival with photos and a passport valid for 6+ months.
Vietnam: Vietnamese authorities strongly recommend obtaining a visa a minimum of 90 days prior to travel through their official website. Check with home country consulates for other nationalities.

What if I have dietary requirements?
Advise any dietary restrictions, allergies or preferences at least 45 days before travel.

What are pre-paid gratuities?
Gratuities for included services are pre-paid but you may provide additional tips at your discretion.

What should I expect on the included excursions?
Guided tours in groups of 25 using wireless audio systems. Difficulty ranges from 1/5 (very easy) to 5/5 (strenuous) based on terrain and distance. Request accommodations as needed.

Is there a dress code?
No strict code, but avoid revealing clothing like thongs/mankinis in dining areas. During the initial part of the trip, it’s advisable to cover your knees and shoulders for many excursions. However, shorts are acceptable as long as they extend to cover at least the upper portion of your knees.

What are the vaccination requirements and recommendations?
Consult CDC websites for U.S. citizens, and home country health authorities for others.

What weather can I expect?
Expect highs around 80s-90sF in Siem Reap, Ho Chi Minh City. Hanoi is cooler – around the 80s in the daytime, and 60 in the evenings.

Will there be smoking areas?
Smoking is not permitted in suites or indoor public areas onboard. There is a designated smoking area on the sun deck.