YOUR ITINERARY
Nov. 1: Depart USA. Your exotic journey to Vietnam and Cambodia begins as you depart on your Korean Air wide-body jet flight to Phnom Penh with layover in Seoul, South Korea.
Nov. 2: Arrive Phnom Penh (Cambodia).
Evening arrival in Phnom Penh, the bustling capital of Cambodia. You
'll be greeted at the airport and escorted to your upscale, conveniently
located hotel. Sunway Hotel.
Nov. 3: Today embark on an included
tour to some of Phnom Penh's most outstanding sights. Visit Wat Phnom,
the birthplace of the capital, the elegant National Museum and the Royal
Palace with its adjacent Silver Pagoda where you'll view the
spectacular Emerald Buddha. This afternoon learn about Cambodia's more
recent, tragic past at the Museum of Genocide. Finally, explore the
modern-day city at the bustling Central Market, located in a distinctive
domed Art Deco building. This evening your tour director hosts a
welcome dinner. (B,D)
Nov. 4: Phnom Penh/Siem Reap.
This morning travel to Siem Reap, gateway to the world famous temples
of Angkor Wat, among the "Seven Wonders of the World". Built by the
Khmer kings, the ancient rulers of Cambodia, the exquisitely carved
temples are an architectural masterpiece. Afternoon sightseeing of the
temples of Angkor, including Angkor Thom and the Southern Gate of Bayon.
At sunset, visit the upper terraces of an ancient temple for
spectacular views. Angkor Century Resort & Spa. (B,D)
     
Nov. 5: A full day excursion to explore
in-depth the "Angkor Conservation Complex" which include the temples of
Angkor, dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu by King Suryavarman who
reigned in the 12th century, Ta Prohm, a temple still surrounded by
thick jungle and the Bentry Srei Temple, built in the late 10th century
and dedicated to Shiva. Tonight, savor a special dinner and a colorful
cultural performance. (B,L,D)
  
Nov. 6: Siem Reap/Saigon ( Vietnam).
This morning, enjoy a relaxing boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake and visit
the fascinating floating Village. After lunch, visit a workshop where
local artists demonstrate the art of stone carving and wood ornamental
sculpture. This afternoon, transfer to the airport for a short flight to
Saigon, now called Ho Chi Minh City. Equatorial Hotel (B,L)
Nov. 7: Journey outside the city to see one
of the remnants of the Vietnam War, the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, which
used to serve the former Communist Guerrillas. Return to Saigon and
visit the major sights of this vibrant city. See the Notre Dame
Cathedral, the former US Embassy, Cholon, the buzzing Chinese quarter
and the lively Ben Thanh Market, where an incredible array of goods is
sold. (B,L)
  
Day 8: Mekong Delta Excursion/Hoi An.
Today's expedition takes you to My Tho, one of the most beautiful areas
of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam's most fertile agricultural center. A boat
trip takes you along narrow canals, passing rice fields and lush
orchards, offering a unique insight into local village life. Visit local
markets before returning to Saigon where you'll board a flight to
Danang in central Vietnam. A short ride brings you to Hoi An, one of
Vietnam's most delightful and enchanting towns. Hoi An Historic Hotel (B,L,D)
Nov. 9: The ancient city of Hoi An
retains much of its original charm and culture. Your guide will lead you
on a walking tour of this historic port town and show you some of the
centuries old houses. You'll also enjoy a Trishaw (Cyclo) ride
and see the Japanese Bridge, gracefully curving over a tributary of the
Thu Bon River. The afternoon is at leisure to explore on your own. (B)
  
Nov. 10: Danang/Hue.
As you depart Hoi An this morning, visit China Beach, the renowned
war-time R&R resort and see the Marble Mountains, consisting of five
stone jagged crests that represent the elements of nature. In Danang
explore the Cham Museum, housing an exquisite collection of sandstone
carvings and sculptures. Later, journey through some of Vietnam 's most
spectacular scenery as you traverse the Hai Van Pass and enjoy pristine
coastline views en route to Hue, the former Imperial Capital of Vietnam.
Enjoy dinner at your hotel. Mercure Hue Gerbera Hotel (B,L,D)
Nov. 11: Today, visit the Citadel in
Hue's old city, the Flag Tower, Ngo Mon Gate and the Forbidden Purple
City, home to the Royal Family before 1945. After lunch, enjoy a scenic
boat trip on the Perfume River and stop to visit the revered Thien Mu
Pagoda, the most famous monument in Hue. A stop is also made at the
colorful Dong Ba market with its wide array of local foods and products.
(B,L)
Nov. 12: Hue/Hanoi/Halong.
This morning fly to Hanoi and journey by road through the lush
countryside to Halong, a vast mysterious bay with majestic scenery. Free
time this afternoon to relax at your hotel's pool and admire the
precious views of the bay. Novotel Hotel (B,D)
  
Nov. 13: Halong Bay Excursion/Hanoi.
Halong Bay is widely considered as Vietnam's most spectacular natural
attraction. It comprises over three thousand small jagged limestone
islands rising out of the South China Sea. These dramatic formations are
the backdrop of your exciting 4-hour boat trip, stopping to visit
several island caves. You'll also enjoy a delicious seafood lunch.
Later, drive back to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam and arrive at your
deluxe hotel. Moevenpick Hotel. (B,L)
Nov. 14: Hanoi's rich history is closely tied to French colonialism as well as the Chinese era, both evident in
the
city's architecture, cuisine and culture. On today's sightseeing tour,
explore the highlights of this fascinating city. View the Ho Chi Minh
Mausoleum and then visit the One Pillar Pagoda and the Temple of
Literature. Proceed to scenic Hoan Kiem Lake and enjoy a guided walk
through the narrow lanes of the historic old quarter. This evening savor
a thrilling performance of the unique Water Puppets! (B,L)
Nov. 15: Enjoy a morning at leisure
to explore Hanoi at your pace. This afternoon savor a cyclo ride to
discover the many interesting sections of the old quarter and its
sprawling markets where you may shop for unique souvenirs and sample
delicious local food. Later visit the infamous former prison nick-named
"Hanoi Hilton". Later, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner
at a famous local restaurant. After dinner, transfer to the airport for
your late night flight. (B,L,D)
Nov. 16: Hanoi/Seoul/USA.
An overnight flight to Seoul, Korea where you'll connect (after a long layover) for your
flight back home. Your exciting journey comes to an end as you touch
down in the USA later today.
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