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August 8, 2025

Emerald Cruises offers a unique and multifaceted travel experience with its itinerary “Explore Vietnam & Cambodia by River”, spanning 24 days through some of the most fascinating regions of Southeast Asia. 

This in-depth journey aboard the luxurious Emerald Harmony unfolds along the mighty Mekong River, crossing three countries – Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos – and allowing for full immersion in a cultural, historical, and natural richness rarely found in shorter trips. 

The itinerary begins in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, where ancient and modern coexist in a dynamic and complex blend. The first two days are devoted to exploring the maze of narrow, bustling streets in the historic center, with its lively markets and numerous street food stalls offering an authentic introduction to Vietnamese culture. 

Excursions include visits to important landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature, reflecting the deep connection with the country’s history and philosophy. During these days, guests may also attend traditional water puppet shows, a beloved Vietnamese art form. 

The journey then continues to Halong Bay, one of Asia’s most iconic natural wonders. Here, aboard a traditional junk boat, passengers drift across calm waters surrounded by thousands of limestone peaks that rise from the surface, creating a dreamlike and breathtaking landscape. 

Excursions include visits to hidden caves and opportunities for kayaking for those who wish to explore the emerald waters up close and soak in the magical atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The itinerary then leads to Hoi An, a World Heritage-listed town of unmistakable charm, where Chinese, Japanese, and French influences intertwine in a well-preserved historic center of ancient houses, bridges, and temples. 

Activities here include guided tours through cobbled streets, encounters with local artisans, and tastings of traditional cuisine that tell stories of centuries-old flavors and customs. Hoi An is also known for its strong sense of community and numerous festivals that bring its squares to life, giving the town a unique and lively atmosphere. 

After a three-day stop, the journey continues to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest metropolis, where past and present intersect in surprising ways. 

 

Formerly known as Saigon, the city offers a variety of attractions ranging from war-related museums such as the War Remnants Museum to vibrant markets like Ben Thanh Market, where visitors can purchase local goods and souvenirs. 

Proposed excursions also include a visit to the French colonial quarter, with its historic buildings and tree-lined boulevards, as well as relaxing moments in cafés that are integral to the city’s social life. 

One of the most evocative aspects of this journey is the chance to explore the Mekong Delta, a region of great fertility and cultural importance, where daily life is closely tied to the river. 

Here, guests visit villages like My An Hung, known for its agricultural and artisanal traditions, and Gieng Island, where one can observe local fishing and water-based activities up close. 

Another notable stop on this stretch is Tan Chau, home to the Cao Dai temple, a spiritual center for a syncretic religion blending elements of Buddhism, Christianity, and other faiths. The temple visit offers an opportunity to delve into the spiritual and cultural dimensions of southern Vietnam. 

Crossing into Cambodia, the cruise stops for two days in Phnom Penh, the capital and a city of significant historical and political importance. Phnom Penh features an urban landscape where colonial buildings, modern skyscrapers, and Buddhist temples coexist, offering a complex and intriguing portrait. 

Excursions here include visits to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, known for their architectural and artistic beauty, as well as moments of reflection at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek – poignant reminders of the country’s recent tragic history. 

From Phnom Penh, the vessel continues to Siem Reap, the ideal base for exploring the Angkor complex, one of the world’s largest and most important archaeological sites. Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s national symbol, is renowned for its grandeur and intricate carvings that tell stories of gods and ancient kings. 

The tour also includes visits to other temples such as Bayon, known for its giant carved stone faces, and Ta Prohm, wrapped in jungle growth that seems to embrace the ruins in an ancient, eternal hug. This three-day stop offers the chance to fully grasp the magnificence of Khmer civilization and admire a cultural and spiritual heritage of extraordinary intensity. 

After Cambodia, the journey heads north along the Mekong, reaching Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos and a city of profound spiritual value. 

Luang Prabang is famous for its many Buddhist temples, its vibrant night market filled with local handicrafts, and a serene atmosphere that invites quiet contemplation. Excursions include visits to religious sites such as Wat Xieng Thong, considered the city’s most important temple, and a trip to the Kuang Si Waterfalls, known for their turquoise waters and surrounding nature trails. 

Guests can also meet local communities and witness the traditional monks’ alms-giving ceremony, a deeply spiritual moment that marks daily life in the city. 

The itinerary concludes with a three-night stay in the Laotian capital, giving travelers the chance to explore this unique city at a relaxed pace and absorb its culture, history, and surrounding landscapes. This final segment offers a moment of pause and reflection, completing a long and discovery-rich travel experience. 

This Emerald Cruises itinerary, Explore Vietnam & Cambodia by River, stands out for its ability to provide a complete and detailed vision of a highly captivating geographic area, combining comfort and luxury with a high-quality cultural and natural program. 

Over the course of 24 days, travelers are guided through emblematic cities, major historical sites, and local communities, offering a truly immersive and unforgettable travel experience. 

This type of extended cruise demonstrates how Emerald Cruises successfully meets the needs of those seeking a profound journey, blending exploration, relaxation, and authentic knowledge. 

Don’t miss further information, updates, and offers from Emerald Cruises on our website Cruising Journal. 

Mara Di Dio

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