VIETNAM & CAMBODIA APRIL 2024

DAY 1 Monday 15th Apr 2024

HANOI (D)

Upon arrival, you will be met by your tour host and transferred to the hotel. Tonight, the group will meet for a welcome dinner and tour briefing at the hotel.

Accommodation: Your own room at Golden Silk Boutique Hotel or similar

DAY 2 Tuesday 16th Apr

CYCLO TOUR – EVENING STREET FOOD TOUR (B/L/D)

We begin the morning with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum. Here you’ll learn about the man who led Vietnam’s campaign for independence from French colonial rule. After dedicating his life to the liberation of his country, Ho Chi Minh died in 1969 and his body was preserved for posterity. Every October the mausoleum is closed for a month and Uncle Ho is given a bit of a spruce up. You’ll also hear about the legend of the one pillar pagoda, built over a lotus pond by an emperor to honour the goddess of mercy and rumoured to have healing powers. Next, visit the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, the apex of regional political power for more than a millennium where research and excavation is still underway, and then head to another 11th century relic, the Temple of Literature, which was built in homage to the Chinese scholar Confucius. After lunch, transfer to visit Quan Thanh temple and Westlake followed by a 1 hour cyclo ride around the Old Quarter. Tonight our guide will take us on a street food tour.

Accommodation: Your own room at Golden Silk Boutique Hotel or similar

DAY 3 Wednesday 17th Apr

HANOI – HALONG BAY (B/L/D)

Leave the pace of the city behind as you travel about four hours to Halong Bay. Hop aboard a small tender boat to get to the ‘Bai Tho’, a beautifully restored traditional wooden junk and explore the jade green waters of Halong Bay over lunch. Cruise through famous sights such as the Ba Hang fishing village, Đỉnh Hương island, Chó Đá islet, Gà Chọi islet… before stopping at Bồ Nâu cave. Transfer by tender to explore one of the most beautiful caves in Halong Bay: Surprise cave. Next head to Titov island where you can enjoy a swim, relax on the beach or climb the steps of the Rock to the top of the island and see the corner of magical Halong Bay. We’ll return back to Bai Tho just in time to watch the sunset from the top deck before enjoying a seafood dinner on board.

Accommodation: Your own private cabin on Bai Tho Junk Boat (chartered exclusively by Two’s a Crowd)

DAY 4 Thursday 18th Apr

HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/L)

Wake up refreshed from a good night’s sleep and enjoy some Tai Chi on the sundeck. After breakfast take a traditionally woven (bamboo) boat rowed by a local boatman to Luồn cave for a guided tour of the beautiful grotto. After a light lunch, we return back to Hanoi.

Accommodation: Your own room at Golden Silk Boutique Hotel or similar

DAY 5 Friday 19th Apr

HANOI – DA NANG/HOI AN (B/D)

Transfer to the airport in Hanoi for our flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, transfers are provided to the hotel in Hoi An. Tonight we’ll enjoy dinner at the Hai Cafe in the Old Town.

Accommodation: Your own room at Royal Riverside Hotel Hoi An or similar

DAY 6 Saturday 20th Apr

HOI AN HALF DAY TOUR (B)

From the 16th to 18th centuries, Hoi An was a thriving international commercial port for Chinese, Dutch, French, Japanese, Portuguese and Arab merchants. Today, Hoi An is a quaint riverside town, renowned for its silk and popular with tourists for its eclectic architecture, tailor shops and numerous cafes. Some of the buildings in the narrow streets have remained unchanged for more than a century and much of the town is now UNESCO heritage- listed. You will truly feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. In the morning, enjoy a half day walking tour through the narrow winding streets of the Ancient Quarter visiting Chua Ong Pagoda, Assembly Hall, 200-year-old Tam Ky house and the Japanese Covered Bridge. Balance of day at leisure.

Accommodation: Your own room at Royal Riverside Hotel Hoi An or similar

DAY 7 Sunday 21st Apr  

HOI AN HALF DAY COOKING CLASS (B/L)

Taste the regional specialties of Hoi An and learn how they are made with a cooking class at Ms Vy’s Cooking School. We start our culinary adventure with a visit to the market with a local chef who will explain all the different herbs and vegetables. Once our purchases have been made, hop aboard a boat and head to the cooking school for a hands-on lesson. With your apron on, get set to roll rice paper into spring rolls, make a claypot and slice and dice to create the beautiful garnishes that decorate the food. At the completion enjoy a delicious lunch, including what we have just prepared.

Accommodation: Your own room at Royal Riverside Hotel Hoi An or similar

DAY 8 Monday 22nd Apr

HOI AN (B)

Today is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Our guide will have many suggestions for us. Plenty of time to visit a local tailor, explore the Hoi An markets, sample the incredible street food or take a cycle ride through the ancient streets.

Accommodation: Your own room at Royal Riverside Hotel Hoi An or similar

DAY 9 Tuesday 23rd Apr

HOI AN – DA NANG/HO CHI MINH CITY – CYCLO TOUR (B)

Transfer to the airport in Danang and take a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, we are transferred to our hotel. This afternoon, we head to Cholon, the city’s Chinatown. With intricate friezes, carv tableaus and impressive incense coils make for some great photos. Then observe street life, through the narrow streets to Ben Thanh market that sells everything from hats to dried squid.

Accommodation: Your own room at Paradise Saigon Boutique Hotel or similar

DAY 10 Wednesday 24th Apr

HO CHI MINH CITY – CU CHI TUNNELS – STREET EATS TOUR (B/D)

We begin our journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels by departing at around 8am from our hotel and travel through the countryside which was once a stronghold of the Viet Cong. Upon arrival, watch a short video about what life was like for soldiers who lived there during the war. The cramped tunnels were central to many of the war’s strategic operations, including the famous 1968 Tet Offensive, and they didn’t escape damage. American B52 bombers dropped hundreds of missiles leaving huge tell-tale craters behind. The tunnels served not only as living quarters, but as supply routes and hospitals for thousands of guerrilla fighters. Many died there from malaria and other diseases, and a few were also born or married. Today they are viewed as a testimony to the Vietnamese people’s resilience. An incredible place. Return to Ho Chi Minh City around 2pm. The afternoon is then free to enjoy as you wish. This evening get set for a culinary adventure in downtown Saigon, away from the tourist areas and into the heart of the city, where the locals eat. These small pop up restaurants are a nightly feature that all but disappear during the day. It’s a great opportunity to try all those weird and wonderful foods you see but just aren’t sure what they are. Pull up a stool and taste a selection of different types of Vietnamese favorites from tasty banh mi baguettes, noodle dishes and flamed grilled barbecue skewers, maybe even rice paper pizza! End the night with dessert from one of Saigon’s best little places for sweet soup. This is a fun night out where you will discover the people and the culture of Vietnam through its food!

Accommodation: Your own room at Paradise Saigon Boutique Hotel or similar

DAY 11 Thursday 25th Apr

FULL DAY MEKONG DELTA (B/L/D)

The Mekong Delta is the southernmost region of Vietnam. It is often referred to as the rice bowl of Vietnam as it produces three harvests per year. The fertile Mekong Delta is also famous for its tropical fruit and flowers. The Delta area marks the end of a 4,500km journey made by the Mekong River after having travelled through six countries. Traditional transportation in the Delta is by boat along a vast network of canals and channels. Boating along these canals and visiting the floating markets always proves to be a fascinating and rewarding experience for all visitors. The tour starts with a drive through the Mekong Delta to Cai Be floating market; from here we’ll board our river boat for a cruise along the endless waterways of the mighty Mekong. We will visit a Bonsai Garden and the handicraft village to see how bricks and pottery items are made. The visit also allows you to discover how candy and pop rice are made. One of your stops will be to a small restaurant serving local delicacies. We’ll then return to Vinh Long town where we are transferred to Ho Chi Minh City. The group will enjoy dinner together tonight—feasting on more local delicacies!

Accommodation: Your own room at Paradise Saigon Boutique Hotel or similar

DAY 12 Friday 26th Apr

HO CHI MINH CITY – SIEM REAP (B)

After breakfast we transfer to the airport for our flight to Siem Reap. Welcome to Cambodia! Upon arrival into Siem Reap, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. We will then set off to experience a private tour of the area. See where it all began as you travel to the ancient site of the Roluos group of temples—just a short drive from Siem Reap. Preah Ko or the sacred bull temple is named after the statues of bulls in front of the central towers and Bakong, is the largest and most impressive in the group dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Tonight is then your own to enjoy at leisure.

Accommodation: Your own room at Steung Siem Reap Hotel or similar

DAY 13 Saturday 27th Apr

SIEM REAP – ANGKOR THOM, BAYON, TA PROHM – ANGKOR WAT FULL DAY TOUR (B/L)

Shortly after breakfast we visit the South Gate of Angkor Thom where statues of the gods of good and evil line the entrance. Your next stop is the Bayon, known for the hundreds of smiling faces that grace the towers. Move on to Phimeanakas, shaped a bit like a pyramid with two ponds in the rear. Then it’s a short drive to one of the most loved temples of all­—Ta Prohm. This small crumbling temple is held together by giant tree roots giving it a magical feel. Return to Siem Reap for lunch before departing to explore the magnificent Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. This visually spectacular temple is a massive three-tiered pyramid, rising 65m from the ground and crowned by five lotus towers. It’s the national symbol of Cambodia and proudly appears on the country’s flag. End your day with sunset views over the jungle from the top of Pre Rup Temple before returning to Siem Reap to enjoy the rest of your evening at your leisure.

Accommodation: Your own room at Steung Siem Reap Hotel or similar

DAY 14 Sunday 28th Apr

SIEM REAP – TONLE SAP LAKE HALF DAY TOUR (B/D)

After breakfast we drive to the edge of the Tonle Sap Lake and embark on a cruise to Kompong Phluk, an isolated Khmer community of three villages built on wooden stilts, rising from six to eight metres high. The community has about 3,000 inhabitants who farm fish and vegetables on floating platforms. During your visit, your boat will take you through mangrove forests, a unique ecosystem that survives on flooded soil for months and hosts to a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds and especially the crab-eating macaques! We return to Siem Reap and for a final group dinner together this evening.

Accommodation: Your own room at Steung Siem Reap Hotel or similar

DAY 15 Monday 29th Apr

SIEM REAP (B)

After breakfast, your Vietnam and Cambodia solos tour will come to an end. A transfer to the airport will be organised for you. Say goodbye to your fellow travellers, or if you’ve booked additional accommodation, you can enjoy an extended stay.

TOUR DATES: 15th – 29th APRIL 2024

TOUR PRICING: A$4,950 PLUS AIRFARES/TAXES

Royal Riverside Hotel Hoi An

The boutique 4-star My Son Heritage Resort & Spa is three kilometres from the Holly land of My Son, 35 kilometres to Hoi An ancient town and 45 kilometres from the airport. The resort is set in mature gardens by the tranquil green hills and reflects a subtle blend of contemporary and cultural influences with architectural influences from both Cham Pa Kingdom and Viet culture. The resort has a restaurant, open-air coffee shop, bar and open lobby/lounge.

Facilities at the hotel include a swimming pool, gym, and spa with sauna, steam room and jacuzzi. Each of the 60 guest rooms and villas has a balcony or terrace, separate bath or shower, hairdryer, satellite television, safe, tea and coffee making facilities and minibar.

Accommodation is in three storey building or one storey villas which look out on to the gardens, green hills surrounding.

Grand Citadel Hotel Hanoi

When visiting Hanoi, you’ll feel right at home at Grand Cititel Hanoi Hotel as it offers quality accommodation and great service. From here, guests can make the most of all that the lively city has to offer. With its convenient location, the property offers easy access to the city’s must-see destinations.

Every effort is made to make guests feel comfortable. To do so, the property provides the best in services and amenities. A selection of top-class facilities such as 24-hour security, daily housekeeping, taxi service, ticket service, 24-hour front desk can be enjoyed here.

98 rooms spread over 10 floors provide a warm and pleasant home away from home. Comforts such as towels, complimentary tea, slippers, complimentary instant coffee, flat screen television can be found in selected rooms. The property’s host of recreational offerings ensures you have plenty to do during your stay. Whatever your purpose of visit, Grand Cititel Hanoi Hotel is an excellent choice for your stay in Hanoi.

Paradise Saigon Hotel

This modern hotel with a rounded corner tower is a 4-minute walk from Bến Thành Market, 1 km from Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and 8 km from Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

Bright rooms and suites include minibars, safes, flat-screen TVs and tea and coffeemaking equipment. Upgraded accommodations feature curved corner windows, and some have either marble floors or balconies with open-air tubs. There’s 24-hour room service.

A top-floor restaurant with city views serves international and local cuisine, plus steak specialties and pizzas. There’s a cafe, a gym and a spa with a sauna, a hot tub and massages.

Steung Siem Reap Hotel

Steung Siem Reap Hotel, the charming 4-star french colonial style hotel is located right in the heart of Siem Reap. With only a minute to walk to iconic sites such as Old market, Wat Preah Prom Rath temple and the famous pub-street. The hotels location is the perfect place for every traveler. Steung Siem Reap Hotel provides a relaxing retreat from the temple and bustling town of Siem Reap with luxurious and specious and great services and facilities in a relax atmosphere with Cambodian hospitality and Angkorian charm.

Weather

The North of Vietnam is generally cooler than other South East Asian regions in the same longitude. It experiences two main distinct seasons. In winter months, the weather gets colder and colder from November to March and considerably warmer in April (a leap into summer).  This is also time to observe much cloud and frequent drizzle. In the summer (from May to October), the whole region is quite hot. The Central Vietnam with two sub-regions, coastal lowlands and central highlands, can be seen as an in-between climatic area of the North and the South. The coastal strip is usually dry and hotter than the rest in the summer, as the Truong Son Mountains do not allow it to enjoy most rainfall of south-western monsoon (from April to October). Unprotected coasts in their turn, however, make it wet and colder than the rest in winter-monsoon season (from November to March). Also, storms and typhoons strike this area more frequently than the northern coasts in summer months (from July to November). The South of Vietnam, merely 8 degrees north of the Equator, is typical of humid tropical climate which is excellent for growing rice. The region’s temperatures experience little variations in a year (around 27-32°C/80-90°F). There are two main seasons: the rainy and the dry. During the rainy/monsoon season (from May to November), downpours are expected to happen nearly every afternoon, resulting in occasional street flooding in and around Saigon. In the dry season, it is hot from late February to April then slightly cooler when first downpours come. Ho Chi Minh city (Saigon) enjoys rather equitable tropical climate with high humidity all year round. December to March is said to be the most pleasant time to hit this region’s center.

Money

Vietnam’s currency is dong issued by State Bank of Vietnam. Abbreviated form: “VND” before the amount or “d” after the amount. Small denominations include VND 200; 500; 1000; 2000; 5000 in both coin and paper notes though coin is more popular. Bigger denominations include VND 10,000; 20,000; 50,000; 100,000; 200,000; 500,000 in both polymer and normal paper notes. Generally, all major currencies can be converted into dong without any hassle but American dollar is normally much more preferred. It is wise to cash your traveler cheques into US dollar in Vietcombank or other major local banks before jumping into anywhere. You may be charged 0.5 to 2% commission for this, still much lower than in black market. Also, it is important to make sure that any note you take do not have any tear or look too worn, as it is possible to pass them to no one again. It is strongly recommended that you do not equip yourself with lots of cash, neither dollar nor dong. In Vietnam now, it is much easier for you to access your money almost everywhere and any time in Hanoi, Saigon or other major cities through an extensive ATM network. It is, therefore, important to check whether your credit card company has any ATM access in Vietnam in advance.

Electricity

In Vietnam the standard voltage is 220 V. The standard frequency is 50 Hz. The power sockets that are used are of type A (Japan) / C (Europe)  and  G (UK)

Visas

Visas on arrival are available at both Vietnam and Cambodia international airports. Two’s a Crowd can provide more information on the process and required documentation and costs.

Tour Inclusions:

• Two’s a Crowd Tour Host
• Your own room at listed hotels with daily breakfast
• Solo-use cabin on board Bai Tho Junk Boat – chartered exclusively by Two’s a Crowd
• All domestic Vietnam flight tickets : Hanoi – Danang – Saigon – Siem Reap (economy class, incl. taxes)
• Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner, S=supper)
• Return group transfers from airport to hotel at the start and end of the tour
• All transport as detailed in the itinerary by comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
• Professional English-speaking guide throughout
• All sightseeing, guided tours, and entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary
• Solo room – always!

Tour Exclusions:

• Travel Insurance (we can assist)
• International/domestic flights to the start/end of the tour
• Expenses of a personal nature, such as laundry, taxis, souvenirs, and phone calls
• Meals and drinks not included in the itinerary
• Pre- and post-tour accommodation (we can assist)
• Visa costs (if applicable)
• Any tours listed as “Optional Tours” (and are subject to change, depending on weather and schedule changes)
• Gratuities (optional)

DAY 1 Monday 15th Apr 2024

HANOI (D)

Upon arrival, you will be met by your tour host and transferred to the hotel. Tonight, the group will meet for a welcome dinner and tour briefing at the hotel.

Accommodation: Your own room at Golden Silk Boutique Hotel or similar

DAY 2 Tuesday 16th Apr

CYCLO TOUR – EVENING STREET FOOD TOUR (B/L/D)

We begin the morning with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum. Here you’ll learn about the man who led Vietnam’s campaign for independence from French colonial rule. After dedicating his life to the liberation of his country, Ho Chi Minh died in 1969 and his body was preserved for posterity. Every October the mausoleum is closed for a month and Uncle Ho is given a bit of a spruce up. You’ll also hear about the legend of the one pillar pagoda, built over a lotus pond by an emperor to honour the goddess of mercy and rumoured to have healing powers. Next, visit the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, the apex of regional political power for more than a millennium where research and excavation is still underway, and then head to another 11th century relic, the Temple of Literature, which was built in homage to the Chinese scholar Confucius. After lunch, transfer to visit Quan Thanh temple and Westlake followed by a 1 hour cyclo ride around the Old Quarter. Tonight our guide will take us on a street food tour.

Accommodation: Your own room at Golden Silk Boutique Hotel or similar

DAY 3 Wednesday 17th Apr

HANOI – HALONG BAY (B/L/D)

Leave the pace of the city behind as you travel about four hours to Halong Bay. Hop aboard a small tender boat to get to the ‘Bai Tho’, a beautifully restored traditional wooden junk and explore the jade green waters of Halong Bay over lunch. Cruise through famous sights such as the Ba Hang fishing village, Đỉnh Hương island, Chó Đá islet, Gà Chọi islet… before stopping at Bồ Nâu cave. Transfer by tender to explore one of the most beautiful caves in Halong Bay: Surprise cave. Next head to Titov island where you can enjoy a swim, relax on the beach or climb the steps of the Rock to the top of the island and see the corner of magical Halong Bay. We’ll return back to Bai Tho just in time to watch the sunset from the top deck before enjoying a seafood dinner on board.

Accommodation: Your own private cabin on Bai Tho Junk Boat (chartered exclusively by Two’s a Crowd)

DAY 4 Thursday 18th Apr

HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/L)

Wake up refreshed from a good night’s sleep and enjoy some Tai Chi on the sundeck. After breakfast take a traditionally woven (bamboo) boat rowed by a local boatman to Luồn cave for a guided tour of the beautiful grotto. After a light lunch, we return back to Hanoi.

Accommodation: Your own room at Golden Silk Boutique Hotel or similar

DAY 5 Friday 19th Apr

HANOI – DA NANG/HOI AN (B/D)

Transfer to the airport in Hanoi for our flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, transfers are provided to the hotel in Hoi An. Tonight we’ll enjoy dinner at the Hai Cafe in the Old Town.

Accommodation: Your own room at Royal Riverside Hotel Hoi An or similar

DAY 6 Saturday 20th Apr

HOI AN HALF DAY TOUR (B)

From the 16th to 18th centuries, Hoi An was a thriving international commercial port for Chinese, Dutch, French, Japanese, Portuguese and Arab merchants. Today, Hoi An is a quaint riverside town, renowned for its silk and popular with tourists for its eclectic architecture, tailor shops and numerous cafes. Some of the buildings in the narrow streets have remained unchanged for more than a century and much of the town is now UNESCO heritage- listed. You will truly feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. In the morning, enjoy a half day walking tour through the narrow winding streets of the Ancient Quarter visiting Chua Ong Pagoda, Assembly Hall, 200-year-old Tam Ky house and the Japanese Covered Bridge. Balance of day at leisure.

Accommodation: Your own room at Royal Riverside Hotel Hoi An or similar

DAY 7 Sunday 21st Apr  

HOI AN HALF DAY COOKING CLASS (B/L)

Taste the regional specialties of Hoi An and learn how they are made with a cooking class at Ms Vy’s Cooking School. We start our culinary adventure with a visit to the market with a local chef who will explain all the different herbs and vegetables. Once our purchases have been made, hop aboard a boat and head to the cooking school for a hands-on lesson. With your apron on, get set to roll rice paper into spring rolls, make a claypot and slice and dice to create the beautiful garnishes that decorate the food. At the completion enjoy a delicious lunch, including what we have just prepared.

Accommodation: Your own room at Royal Riverside Hotel Hoi An or similar

DAY 8 Monday 22nd Apr

HOI AN (B)

Today is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Our guide will have many suggestions for us. Plenty of time to visit a local tailor, explore the Hoi An markets, sample the incredible street food or take a cycle ride through the ancient streets.

Accommodation: Your own room at Royal Riverside Hotel Hoi An or similar

DAY 9 Tuesday 23rd Apr

HOI AN – DA NANG/HO CHI MINH CITY – CYCLO TOUR (B)

Transfer to the airport in Danang and take a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, we are transferred to our hotel. This afternoon, we head to Cholon, the city’s Chinatown. With intricate friezes, carv tableaus and impressive incense coils make for some great photos. Then observe street life, through the narrow streets to Ben Thanh market that sells everything from hats to dried squid.

Accommodation: Your own room at Paradise Saigon Boutique Hotel or similar

DAY 10 Wednesday 24th Apr

HO CHI MINH CITY – CU CHI TUNNELS – STREET EATS TOUR (B/D)

We begin our journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels by departing at around 8am from our hotel and travel through the countryside which was once a stronghold of the Viet Cong. Upon arrival, watch a short video about what life was like for soldiers who lived there during the war. The cramped tunnels were central to many of the war’s strategic operations, including the famous 1968 Tet Offensive, and they didn’t escape damage. American B52 bombers dropped hundreds of missiles leaving huge tell-tale craters behind. The tunnels served not only as living quarters, but as supply routes and hospitals for thousands of guerrilla fighters. Many died there from malaria and other diseases, and a few were also born or married. Today they are viewed as a testimony to the Vietnamese people’s resilience. An incredible place. Return to Ho Chi Minh City around 2pm. The afternoon is then free to enjoy as you wish. This evening get set for a culinary adventure in downtown Saigon, away from the tourist areas and into the heart of the city, where the locals eat. These small pop up restaurants are a nightly feature that all but disappear during the day. It’s a great opportunity to try all those weird and wonderful foods you see but just aren’t sure what they are. Pull up a stool and taste a selection of different types of Vietnamese favorites from tasty banh mi baguettes, noodle dishes and flamed grilled barbecue skewers, maybe even rice paper pizza! End the night with dessert from one of Saigon’s best little places for sweet soup. This is a fun night out where you will discover the people and the culture of Vietnam through its food!

Accommodation: Your own room at Paradise Saigon Boutique Hotel or similar

DAY 11 Thursday 25th Apr

FULL DAY MEKONG DELTA (B/L/D)

The Mekong Delta is the southernmost region of Vietnam. It is often referred to as the rice bowl of Vietnam as it produces three harvests per year. The fertile Mekong Delta is also famous for its tropical fruit and flowers. The Delta area marks the end of a 4,500km journey made by the Mekong River after having travelled through six countries. Traditional transportation in the Delta is by boat along a vast network of canals and channels. Boating along these canals and visiting the floating markets always proves to be a fascinating and rewarding experience for all visitors. The tour starts with a drive through the Mekong Delta to Cai Be floating market; from here we’ll board our river boat for a cruise along the endless waterways of the mighty Mekong. We will visit a Bonsai Garden and the handicraft village to see how bricks and pottery items are made. The visit also allows you to discover how candy and pop rice are made. One of your stops will be to a small restaurant serving local delicacies. We’ll then return to Vinh Long town where we are transferred to Ho Chi Minh City. The group will enjoy dinner together tonight—feasting on more local delicacies!

Accommodation: Your own room at Paradise Saigon Boutique Hotel or similar

DAY 12 Friday 26th Apr

HO CHI MINH CITY – SIEM REAP (B)

After breakfast we transfer to the airport for our flight to Siem Reap. Welcome to Cambodia! Upon arrival into Siem Reap, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. We will then set off to experience a private tour of the area. See where it all began as you travel to the ancient site of the Roluos group of temples—just a short drive from Siem Reap. Preah Ko or the sacred bull temple is named after the statues of bulls in front of the central towers and Bakong, is the largest and most impressive in the group dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Tonight is then your own to enjoy at leisure.

Accommodation: Your own room at Steung Siem Reap Hotel or similar

DAY 13 Saturday 27th Apr

SIEM REAP – ANGKOR THOM, BAYON, TA PROHM – ANGKOR WAT FULL DAY TOUR (B/L)

Shortly after breakfast we visit the South Gate of Angkor Thom where statues of the gods of good and evil line the entrance. Your next stop is the Bayon, known for the hundreds of smiling faces that grace the towers. Move on to Phimeanakas, shaped a bit like a pyramid with two ponds in the rear. Then it’s a short drive to one of the most loved temples of all­—Ta Prohm. This small crumbling temple is held together by giant tree roots giving it a magical feel. Return to Siem Reap for lunch before departing to explore the magnificent Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. This visually spectacular temple is a massive three-tiered pyramid, rising 65m from the ground and crowned by five lotus towers. It’s the national symbol of Cambodia and proudly appears on the country’s flag. End your day with sunset views over the jungle from the top of Pre Rup Temple before returning to Siem Reap to enjoy the rest of your evening at your leisure.

Accommodation: Your own room at Steung Siem Reap Hotel or similar

DAY 14 Sunday 28th Apr

SIEM REAP – TONLE SAP LAKE HALF DAY TOUR (B/D)

After breakfast we drive to the edge of the Tonle Sap Lake and embark on a cruise to Kompong Phluk, an isolated Khmer community of three villages built on wooden stilts, rising from six to eight metres high. The community has about 3,000 inhabitants who farm fish and vegetables on floating platforms. During your visit, your boat will take you through mangrove forests, a unique ecosystem that survives on flooded soil for months and hosts to a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds and especially the crab-eating macaques! We return to Siem Reap and for a final group dinner together this evening.

Accommodation: Your own room at Steung Siem Reap Hotel or similar

DAY 15 Monday 29th Apr

SIEM REAP (B)

After breakfast, your Vietnam and Cambodia solos tour will come to an end. A transfer to the airport will be organised for you. Say goodbye to your fellow travellers, or if you’ve booked additional accommodation, you can enjoy an extended stay.

TOUR DATES: 15th – 29th APRIL 2024

TOUR PRICING: A$4,950 PLUS AIRFARES/TAXES

Royal Riverside Hotel Hoi An

The boutique 4-star My Son Heritage Resort & Spa is three kilometres from the Holly land of My Son, 35 kilometres to Hoi An ancient town and 45 kilometres from the airport. The resort is set in mature gardens by the tranquil green hills and reflects a subtle blend of contemporary and cultural influences with architectural influences from both Cham Pa Kingdom and Viet culture. The resort has a restaurant, open-air coffee shop, bar and open lobby/lounge.

Facilities at the hotel include a swimming pool, gym, and spa with sauna, steam room and jacuzzi. Each of the 60 guest rooms and villas has a balcony or terrace, separate bath or shower, hairdryer, satellite television, safe, tea and coffee making facilities and minibar.

Accommodation is in three storey building or one storey villas which look out on to the gardens, green hills surrounding.

Grand Citadel Hotel Hanoi

When visiting Hanoi, you’ll feel right at home at Grand Cititel Hanoi Hotel as it offers quality accommodation and great service. From here, guests can make the most of all that the lively city has to offer. With its convenient location, the property offers easy access to the city’s must-see destinations.

Every effort is made to make guests feel comfortable. To do so, the property provides the best in services and amenities. A selection of top-class facilities such as 24-hour security, daily housekeeping, taxi service, ticket service, 24-hour front desk can be enjoyed here.

98 rooms spread over 10 floors provide a warm and pleasant home away from home. Comforts such as towels, complimentary tea, slippers, complimentary instant coffee, flat screen television can be found in selected rooms. The property’s host of recreational offerings ensures you have plenty to do during your stay. Whatever your purpose of visit, Grand Cititel Hanoi Hotel is an excellent choice for your stay in Hanoi.

Paradise Saigon Hotel

This modern hotel with a rounded corner tower is a 4-minute walk from Bến Thành Market, 1 km from Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and 8 km from Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

Bright rooms and suites include minibars, safes, flat-screen TVs and tea and coffeemaking equipment. Upgraded accommodations feature curved corner windows, and some have either marble floors or balconies with open-air tubs. There’s 24-hour room service.

A top-floor restaurant with city views serves international and local cuisine, plus steak specialties and pizzas. There’s a cafe, a gym and a spa with a sauna, a hot tub and massages.

Steung Siem Reap Hotel

Steung Siem Reap Hotel, the charming 4-star french colonial style hotel is located right in the heart of Siem Reap. With only a minute to walk to iconic sites such as Old market, Wat Preah Prom Rath temple and the famous pub-street. The hotels location is the perfect place for every traveler. Steung Siem Reap Hotel provides a relaxing retreat from the temple and bustling town of Siem Reap with luxurious and specious and great services and facilities in a relax atmosphere with Cambodian hospitality and Angkorian charm.

Weather

The North of Vietnam is generally cooler than other South East Asian regions in the same longitude. It experiences two main distinct seasons. In winter months, the weather gets colder and colder from November to March and considerably warmer in April (a leap into summer).  This is also time to observe much cloud and frequent drizzle. In the summer (from May to October), the whole region is quite hot. The Central Vietnam with two sub-regions, coastal lowlands and central highlands, can be seen as an in-between climatic area of the North and the South. The coastal strip is usually dry and hotter than the rest in the summer, as the Truong Son Mountains do not allow it to enjoy most rainfall of south-western monsoon (from April to October). Unprotected coasts in their turn, however, make it wet and colder than the rest in winter-monsoon season (from November to March). Also, storms and typhoons strike this area more frequently than the northern coasts in summer months (from July to November). The South of Vietnam, merely 8 degrees north of the Equator, is typical of humid tropical climate which is excellent for growing rice. The region’s temperatures experience little variations in a year (around 27-32°C/80-90°F). There are two main seasons: the rainy and the dry. During the rainy/monsoon season (from May to November), downpours are expected to happen nearly every afternoon, resulting in occasional street flooding in and around Saigon. In the dry season, it is hot from late February to April then slightly cooler when first downpours come. Ho Chi Minh city (Saigon) enjoys rather equitable tropical climate with high humidity all year round. December to March is said to be the most pleasant time to hit this region’s center.

Money

Vietnam’s currency is dong issued by State Bank of Vietnam. Abbreviated form: “VND” before the amount or “d” after the amount. Small denominations include VND 200; 500; 1000; 2000; 5000 in both coin and paper notes though coin is more popular. Bigger denominations include VND 10,000; 20,000; 50,000; 100,000; 200,000; 500,000 in both polymer and normal paper notes. Generally, all major currencies can be converted into dong without any hassle but American dollar is normally much more preferred. It is wise to cash your traveler cheques into US dollar in Vietcombank or other major local banks before jumping into anywhere. You may be charged 0.5 to 2% commission for this, still much lower than in black market. Also, it is important to make sure that any note you take do not have any tear or look too worn, as it is possible to pass them to no one again. It is strongly recommended that you do not equip yourself with lots of cash, neither dollar nor dong. In Vietnam now, it is much easier for you to access your money almost everywhere and any time in Hanoi, Saigon or other major cities through an extensive ATM network. It is, therefore, important to check whether your credit card company has any ATM access in Vietnam in advance.

Electricity

In Vietnam the standard voltage is 220 V. The standard frequency is 50 Hz. The power sockets that are used are of type A (Japan) / C (Europe)  and  G (UK)

Visas

Visas on arrival are available at both Vietnam and Cambodia international airports. Two’s a Crowd can provide more information on the process and required documentation and costs.

Tour Inclusions:

• Two’s a Crowd Tour Host
• Your own room at listed hotels with daily breakfast
• Solo-use cabin on board Bai Tho Junk Boat – chartered exclusively by Two’s a Crowd
• All domestic Vietnam flight tickets : Hanoi – Danang – Saigon – Siem Reap (economy class, incl. taxes)
• Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner, S=supper)
• Return group transfers from airport to hotel at the start and end of the tour
• All transport as detailed in the itinerary by comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
• Professional English-speaking guide throughout
• All sightseeing, guided tours, and entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary
• Solo room – always!

Tour Exclusions:

• Travel Insurance (we can assist)
• International/domestic flights to the start/end of the tour
• Expenses of a personal nature, such as laundry, taxis, souvenirs, and phone calls
• Meals and drinks not included in the itinerary
• Pre- and post-tour accommodation (we can assist)
• Visa costs (if applicable)
• Any tours listed as “Optional Tours” (and are subject to change, depending on weather and schedule changes)
• Gratuities (optional)