Vietnam, Cambodia and Mekong River Cruise

Today, your river journey begins. Step aboard the luxurious Mekong Princess, a beautifully appointed vessel designed for intimate exploration and immersive cultural encounters. As you cruise away from Saigon and into the lush Mekong Delta, settle into your suite, toast to the journey ahead with a cocktail, and enjoy a delicious welcome lunch in the Indochine Restaurant.

The riverbanks begin to tell their story as traditional life unfolds along the water’s edge. As evening falls, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner prepared by expert chefs onboard. The relaxed rhythm of the Mekong sets the pace for the days to come – elegant, unhurried, and full of discovery.

Glide through narrow canals aboard a sampan, discovering fruit orchards and villages rarely touched by tourism. In Can Tho, experience the region’s energy at the famous Cai Rang floating market – a sensory feast of colour, sound, and flavour. Then, delve into the quieter charms of Hoa An village. Wander through blooming flower fields and visit families crafting the iconic conical hats of Vietnam. Ride a motorised trishaw through picturesque paths, gaining a deeper connection to the lives and livelihoods of local artisans.

Back onboard, enrich your understanding of Vietnamese history and culture through an insightful lecture. This stretch of your journey is both intimate and eye-opening, and serves as an authentic window into life along the river.

Step into a slower rhythm of life on Gieng Island, where the centuries-old craft of wooden sampan building continues by hand. Travel by xe loi (motor trishaw) through lush backroads to the peaceful Phanxico Monastery – a serene space for reflection. In Hong Ngu, near the Cambodian border, encounter a community of skilled artisans known for weaving beautiful Khmer scarves and intricate embroidery. These quiet villages have seen few Western visitors, and the welcome is genuinely heartfelt. Conversations with locals offer moments of cultural exchange that go far beyond observation.

Later, enjoy a cooking demonstration led by the ship’s Executive Chef – an invitation to bring the flavours of the Mekong home with you.

Arriving in Cambodia’s vibrant capital, discover Phnom Penh by cyclo – a local rickshaw offering a relaxed ride through streets lined with colonial-era buildings and traditional Khmer temples. Explore the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and the treasures of the National Museum. For those drawn to nightlife, Bassac Lane offers a stylish scene of cocktail bars and live music.

The next day brings a sobering yet essential visit to Choeung Ek (the Killing Fields) and Tuol Sleng, where Cambodia’s tragic history under the Khmer Rouge is respectfully remembered. End your day with a traditional Apsara dance performance – a moving celebration of the country’s cultural resilience, artistry, and hope.

Cruise further upstream to Angkor Ban, where you will step into daily Cambodian life away from tourist trails. Visit a local pagoda to take part in a traditional water blessing ceremony, guided by Buddhist monks – a moment of calm and reflection. Continue to local homes and schools, where you are invited to meet families and curious students. This cultural exchange offers insight into the warm spirit and resilience of the Cambodian people. It is a day filled with connection, simplicity, and meaningful encounters – a reminder of the humanity that binds us all, wherever we come from.

Disembark from the Mekong Princess and travel to Siem Reap, gateway to the majestic temples of Angkor. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. Whether you choose a guided tuk-tuk tour through the town’s lively markets or a serene moment by the pool at your luxury resort, this day offers a gentle transition from river life to temple discovery. Siem Reap is a vibrant cultural hub, where modern life meets ancient wonder – a perfect introduction to the awe-inspiring chapters still to come.

Prepare to be awestruck as you explore the UNESCO-listed Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Its intricate carvings and towering spires echo the grandeur of the Khmer Empire. At Ta Prohm, witness the haunting beauty of nature reclaiming the stone – with banyan roots weaving through temple walls.

Rise early for a breathtaking sunrise at Angkor Wat, followed by a gourmet picnic breakfast within the complex. Then, glide along the ancient moat in a traditional gondola, seeing the temples from a whole new perspective. Later, explore the enigmatic faces of Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom.

As you say farewell to Southeast Asia, reflect on a journey that has been equal parts luxury, history, and heart. From the bustling streets of Saigon to the quiet sanctuaries of Angkor, each moment has revealed a new perspective and a shared sense of wonder. This itinerary offers more than just travel. It allows you to foster meaningful connections among likeminded LGBTQ+ travellers, creating friendships and memories that last long beyond the journey.