Day 1 : Hanoi Arrival
Welcome to Vietnam! The immense population of Hanoi is immediately visible in its crowded streets that are packed with bicycles, tuk-tuks, motorbikes, cars, and pedestrians. It is absolute transit madness and really is an attraction in itself. You can pop a squat at a sidewalk cafe and be entertained by hours as you witness the spectacle of motorbikes whizzing by with goods piled up high. Navigating the maze of small alleys is how most people prefer to spend their time in Hanoi which is just as fun as any purpose-built tourist attraction.
If you’re not too jet lagged upon arrival, you can explore the area as the hotel is conveniently located in the Old Quarter making it easy to explore on your own. Otherwise, you can just relax at the hotel’s spa which offers foot massages, full-body herbal massages, rice scrubs, and facials; a nice way to unwind after your flight. There is also a pool with a spectacular view of the city to relax in or grab a drink on the rooftop bar at the end of the day.
Included :
- Activities: Arrival (at your own expense); Free time
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 2 : Hanoi
Start your day with a tour of Hanoi where you’ll stop at some of the city’s most well-known sites; most notably Hoa Lo Prison where POWs were detained during the Vietnam War. Afterward, you’ll have some free time to do as you wish.
This evening, hop on the back of a motorbike and get ready to eat your way through Hanoi! The street food scene is thriving here and it is a fun way to explore the city. It is also a great way to get a feel for how the locals live and eat. During the food tour, you’ll sample some local specialties in the never-ending hidden alleys of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
After sampling some of Hanoi’s street treats, head to one of the local watering holes on the street serving bia hoi (fresh beer), a small batch of homemade beer that is brewed fresh every day. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect after a hot and steamy day in Hanoi. It is delivered daily and sold for around 30 cents per glass. Even if you are not a beer drinker, it is still fun to experience this very typical Hanoi scene. You’ll be immersed in local life next to workers who like to come here after a hard day’s work for some cheap drinks and good company.
Included :
- Activities: Hanoi city tour; Free time; Street food tour by motorbike
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (street food tour)
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 3 : Halong Bay
Halong Bay is a beautiful turquoise bay with more than 3,000 islands in all shapes and sizes. It is most known for its iconic limestone cliffs covered in green vegetation protruding from the water’s surface. Halong means “descending dragon”, a suitable metaphor to describe the thousands of islands with bizarre rock formations found within this bay. Halong Bay offers a much more tranquil setting than the clamor of Hanoi. Upon arrival, you’ll board a 5-star junk boat to start cruising.
Enjoy lunch on board the boat as you set sail to the less-visited area of Lan Ha Bay. In the afternoon, you will have the option to visit Sang Toi cave followed by time for swimming and kayaking. You can also just hang out on the boat and take in the scenery if you prefer. If you would rather relax, there’s a masseuse on board and you can book a massage. Almost all activities on the boat are optional but included in the cost.
Before dinner, there will be a cooking demonstration on the sundeck as well as a happy hour before you dine. This is a sunset you definitely do not want to miss. After dinner, you’ll have the option to do some nighttime fishing for squid with the boat crew.
*NOTE: We recommend bringing an overnight bag to Halong Bay rather than lugging your bulky suitcases with you on the cruise. Your main luggage will be safely stored at the Hanoi hotel. You can collect them when you return to Hanoi on Day 4.
Included :
- Transfers: Hanoi – Halong Bay by van (approx. 3 hours)
- Activities: Sang Toi Cave; Swimming; Kayaking; Cooking demonstration; Free time on boat; Squid fishing
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Premium cruise ship
NEXT DAY Day 4 : Hanoi
This morning, you have the option of rising early to witness the bay at its best during a sunrise Tai Chi session on the sundeck followed by breakfast. If you’re not an early bird, you can wake up at your leisure and soak in a bubble bath as you take in the views of the bay from the large windows in your cabin. Later in the morning, head out in kayaks to explore the bay. After kayaking through a dark grotto, get ready for a hidden paradise surrounded by huge limestone cliffs. You’re also welcome to relax on the boat’s sundeck if you don’t want to participate in any of the activities. Thereafter, there’ll be a brunch as you cruise back to shore.
After returning to land, you’ll transfer back to Hanoi where you’ll have the rest of the day free to grab a coffee on Train Street, go out for another round of bia hoi, or just relax at the hotel.
Included :
- Transfers: Halong Bay – Hanoi by van (approx. 3 hours)
- Activities: Tai Chi class; Grotto by kayak; Hanoi free time
- Meals: Breakfast, Brunch
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 5 : Hoi An
Your journey continues today to Hoi An whose maritime importance dates back as early as the 2nd century BC. It has seen occupation by the Chinese, Japanese, and Europeans. Their influences are visible throughout the old town, especially in the temples and houses built by merchants who ended up settling down here. Towards the end of the 18th century, the river slowly silted up which led to the end of trade but the town’s charm is still well-preserved.
Arrival in Hoi An will be in the afternoon and then, you’ll have some free time. The hotel is situated in the old town so you can easily walk around Hoi An to familiarize yourself with this charming town.
Included :
- Transfers: Hanoi – Hoi An by plane and van (approx. 2.5 hours)
- Activities: Free time
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 6 : Hoi An
Discover the city this morning and visit a local market in Hoi An full of seasonal fruits, noodles, herbs, vegetables, meat, and fish. Talk to the vendors and get some tips from your local guide on how to bargain. You’ll also have the chance to meet a local Cham family and hear about their way of life as well as the traditions that have been passed down through the generations. Then, cruise down the Thu Bon River in bamboo basket boats and paddle through the water coconut palms. You will also have the option of learning how to fish like a local with a fishing net, listening to traditional folk songs, and shopping for handmade souvenirs made of palm leaves. Afterward, get a hands-on lesson in Vietnamese cooking after which you’ll dine on your own culinary creations for lunch.
Later in the day, try your hand at making lanterns like the ones you see covering the buildings of the old town. After the class, you’ll have the rest of the afternoon and evening free to relax at the hotel or explore the town’s endless hidden alleys and passages.
Included :
- Activities: Hoi An city tour; Morning market; Cham family visit; Bamboo basket boat ride; Cooking class; Lantern making class
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (cooking class)
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 7 : Hoi An
The best way to discover Hoi An is to simply wander. Temples, museums, and preserved houses are plentiful in the maze of streets that wind throughout the town. There are hundreds of historic buildings and the best way to get a feel for the town is to stroll through the small alleys. As with everywhere in this country, the real Vietnam is to be found in unexpected places such as a hidden back street, an unexpected alley, or talking in broken English to an old lady selling Chinese scrolls. In hidden nooks and crannies, you’ll stumble upon art galleries, gastronomic gems, and shops filled with lanterns and silk for which the town is famed, woodworkers and carvers, artists at work, and handicrafts galore.
You have the day to do as you would like and your tour leader will be there to recommend optional activities!
Included :
- Activities: Free day (optional activities at your own expense)
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 8 : Siem Reap, Cambodia
Say goodbye to Vietnam as you make your way to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Siem Reap is a busy little town thanks to its prime location next to the Angkor temple complex. There are a plethora of local cafes, street food stalls, and restaurants serving all kinds of cuisines if you’d like to mix it up. Pub Street comes alive at night and it is the spot to get a fish spa pedicure, grab a drink, or get your groove on!
Upon arrival at the Siem Reap airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. There’ll be a quick briefing with your tour leader about the schedule in the days to come. You’ll then have a little free time to relax and take in your new surroundings.
Included :
- Transfers: Hoi An – Siem Reap by van and plane (approx. 3 hours)
- Activities: Meet with tour leader; Free time
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 9 : Siem Reap
Today is all about temples as you delve into the remnants of the Khmer Empire’s former glory. Stepping foot on these sacred grounds is to step back in time. First up is the main temple of Angkor Wat, the best preserved of all the temples in the complex which is nearly 1,000 years old! Your guide will walk you through the temple and explain the fascinating history of this bucket list site. Up next is Bayon, one of the most richly decorated temples in the area. You could get lost and wander its many passages for hours as you admire the many stone-carved murals depicting ancient life. As always, your guide will be there to provide you with all the important information about this popular temple.
After a morning of temples, you’re welcome to explore more temples and catch your own tuk-tuk back to the hotel. Or you can head back with the tour leader and take a dip in the hotel pool after a hot day under the Cambodian sun.
This evening, there’ll be dinner and a show at a local theater. You’ll be treated to an Apsara (traditional Khmer dance) performance at a beautiful theater.
Included :
- Activities: Angkor Wat & Bayon Temples; Free time; Apsara show + dinner
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 10 : Siem Reap
This morning, you’ll head to the Landmine Museum of Banteay Srey on the outskirts of Siem Reap and the Angkor complex. On the way, stop at a local’s home where they produce palm sugar, a staple in Khmer cooking. Your tour leader will explain how they make it by hand and how it is used. Then, onward to the Landmine Museum to learn about the devastating effects of landmines and UXOs in Cambodia as well as the efforts being made to demine the country. The stories of the founder, Aki Ra, and those affected by these horrible devices are heartbreaking but an integral part of Khmer society, past and present.
The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure. Check out one of the many amazing restaurants in Siem Reap for lunch. Your tour leader can offer recommendations of what to eat and do/see.
Later, gather for an early dinner at a local restaurant that provides training in the food and beverage industry to young adults from the area so that they may have practical skills for a happier and more secure future.
This evening, get ready for a show with Cambodian theater, acrobatics, traditional dance, and more! Phare Circus is a local arts and culture project that started in the city of Battambang and gives Cambodians from difficult backgrounds the opportunity to receive education in the arts. Arrive at the circus grounds in time for happy hour. Then, the big top will open its doors and you’ll be shown to your front-row seats for the main event!
Included :
- Activities: Local palm sugar house visit; Banteay Srey Landmine Museum; Lunch at training restaurant; Free time; Phare circus
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 11 : Siem Reap
Head to Angkor once again this morning as it is impossible, not to mention exhausting, to try to squeeze everything into one day. Today, you’ll visit the temple of Ta Prohm which became famous thanks to its appearance in one of the Tomb Raider films. Here, the sight of the jungle devouring the ruins of the temple is one to surely amaze. You’ll have lunch together at a local training restaurant whose goal is to train young underprivileged Cambodians in the hospitality industry, free of charge. Over 1,850 students have been trained here and found a job in one of Cambodia’s fastest-growing economic sectors, enabling them to achieve economic independence and improve the living conditions of their families.
The afternoon is free to relax or do some sightseeing and souvenir shopping around town if you’d like.
Reunite this evening to discover Siem Reap’s street food scene and night market. Your tour leader will recommend dishes and you’ll eat like a local for dinner. Thereafter, we suggest a night out on Pub Street to see Siem Reap’s nightlife and how it likes to get down once the sun sets!
Included :
- Activities: Ta Prohm Temple; Free time; Street food tour & night market
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (street food tour)
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 12 : Siem Reap
Today is a free day to do as you’d like. Siem Reap is chalked full of things to do and see. If you’re interested in exploring the vast Angkor complex some more, your tour leader can help you hire a tuk-tuk and a guide. We recommend the Apopo Landmine project where rats are trained to sniff out landmines. You could also try your hand at Khmer cuisine at a cooking class including a morning market visit. Another option is a tour of the Sombai distillery where you’ll learn how this Cambodian liqueur is made along with a Khmer cocktail tasting. You could also go for a boat ride around Kampong Phluk floating village and see stilted houses over a lake. It’s up to you! Your tour leader will be there to point you in the right direction based on your interests.
Included :
- Activities: Free time (optional activities at your own expense)
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 13 : Phnom Penh
Bid farewell to Siem Reap and catch a flight to Phnom Penh. Once known as the ‘Pearl of Asia’, Phnom Penh was once one of the better-preserved French colonial towns in Southeast Asia. However, the last 30 years have seen an onslaught of new construction projects which have resulted in many of Phnom Penh’s relics and its unique architecture falling to the wrecking ball, only to be replaced by characterless glass and brass affairs. The result is a hodge-podge of stunning French colonial buildings, quirky modernist buildings, and concrete eyesores.
The rest of the evening is yours to do as you’d like. Your hotel is located within walking distance of many great restaurants and pubs where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink at the end of the day.
Included :
- Transfers: Siem Reap – Phnom Penh by plane (approx. 1.5 hrs)
- Activities: Free time
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 14 : Phnom Penh
The most visited attraction in Phnom Penh will leave you in tears but will also give you insight into life during the Khmer Rouge’s horrendous reign. The killing fields and S-21 genocide museum are synonymous with torture and mass murder. This is a tear-jerking yet integral part of Khmer history and something that must be visited in order to understand the current state of Khmer politics and society. There is not one family that was not affected by the Khmer Rouge in some way. Approximately 25% or more of Cambodia’s population died at the hands of this horrific regime.
Cambodian cities are not going to win any awards for being the most beautiful but it is important to step back and imagine what the people and their country have been through, one of the largest mass genocides known in history. This was less than 50 years ago and the country is still being ruled by a former commander of the Khmer Rouge. Foreign investment is plundering the country to keep the dirty politicians’ pockets lined. Sadly, corruption and bribery run rampant, and even with all of these horrific things happening, the Khmer people are some of the friendliest in Southeast Asia. To have such optimism with so many setbacks and misfortunes shows that the Khmer people are some of the most resilient and resourceful in the world!
Included :
- Activities: Choeung Ek Genocidal Center (killing fields); Toul Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21); Free time
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 15 : Phnom Penh Departure
Bid farewell to Southeast Asia and all of its treasures! Depending on your flight time, you will have free time on your own before catching your flight back home.
Included :
- Activities: Departure (at your own expense); Free time
- Meals: Breakfast
*Itinerary is subject to change.
NEXT DAY Vietnam/Cambodia 15-Day Trip
$3,400 – Trip cost per person (See below for inclusions and exclusions.)
A down payment of half the trip cost, $1,700, per person is needed to secure a spot on the trip. The other half is due 75 days before the trip start date.
*$300 of the down payment serves as an administration fee and is non-refundable. You can see our cancellation policy HERE.
I’m a single traveler. Will I be charged a single supplement?
If you would like a single room throughout the trip, you can purchase the “single supplement”. The single supplement fee for this trip is $650. If you would like your own room, the additional supplement can be purchased at check-out. We have made the single supplement fee as affordable as possible so that those traveling solo are not discouraged from traveling with us.
If you are comfortable sharing a room with another traveler of the same gender and would like us to pair you with someone to avoid paying the single supplement, we will try to arrange this for you. Pairing with another person of the same gender comes on a first-come, first-served basis. At the time of booking, there will be a questionnaire pertaining to this. Please complete it accurately so that we can try our best to accommodate your preferences.
IMPORTANT: If we cannot find a roommate for you, you will need to purchase the single supplement. Roommates will always be the same gender. We try our best to pair roommates based on preferences (i.e. non-smokers, no snoring, night owls, early birds, etc.) but this is not always possible. If you are a light sleeper, sensitive to certain smells, etc, we recommend purchasing the single supplement. We will put you in contact with your roommate after booking. If you wish to have your own room at any point during the trip, you will need to purchase the single supplement pro rata. This will also be subject to availability.
What is included :
- 14 nights accommodation (double occupancy)
- Halong Bay overnight cruise (premium boat)
- 3 internal flights (2 domestic & 1 international – Vietnam to Cambodia)
- Private, air-conditioned ground transportation
- Tour Leaders
- Angkor complex entry (3-day pass)
- Activities as indicated on the itinerary
- All breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
What is not included :
- International flights
- Airport pick-up & drop-off
- Visas
- Some lunches and dinners
- Optional excursions and activities
- Gratuities
- Souvenirs
- Insurance
Physical requirements
This trip requires a low level of physical fitness. If you’re not feeling up for an activity, you’re welcome to explore on your own.
Some hotels do not have elevators so you’ll need to be able to walk up and down 2 – 3 or more flights of stairs with varying degrees of steepness, with your luggage, and unassisted. Most hotels will have porters or staff to help you with luggage but please keep this in mind when tipping.
To participate in this trip you should be able to:
- Walk 1 – 2 miles throughout the day unassisted, up/down stairs, over unpaved or cobblestone surfaces with/without an incline, and on paths with rough terrain.
- Be comfortable on your feet for up to 4 hours walking and standing, indoors and outdoors, and in all weather conditions.
- Carry your luggage from the taxi/van to the hotel and to your room.
- Get in and out of a van without assistance.
Accommodation
You will stay in charming boutique hotels sometimes in remote areas of Vietnam and Cambodia and even on a premium cruise ship. Expect things to be different than what you’re used to back home (water pressure, amenities, Wifi, etc.) That’s part of the fun of traveling to and experiencing new places!
Smile policy
We welcome all kinds of travelers on our tours and the group dynamic of each trip is different but also part of what makes the trip so amazing. You will need to treat everyone in the group as well as the locals with respect and kindness.
Free time
Our tours are designed for the semi-independent traveler. If you choose not to participate in any of the included activities, you are responsible for organizing your own activities. Your tour leader can offer recommendations for alternative activities but it is up to you to make reservations for extra activities.
Tour leader
Your tour leader’s role is to help you have an unforgettable experience. He/she can answer questions and offer suggestions about what to do in your free time. He/she will always try to go above and beyond to help you have an amazing trip but is not your personal assistant. Travelers must exercise a certain level of self-sufficiency and independence on our tours. We also suggest tipping those who went out of their way to help you, especially your tour leader who will be with you every day throughout the entire tour. Finally, you will need to come with an open mind and adventurous spirit in order to have the trip of a lifetime!
Each group consists of 4 – 12 travelers. We prefer small group travel because based on our experience, large groups are less easily able to integrate into society and generally have less authentic contact with the locals.
A small group number also means that the participants will receive more personal treatment from the tour leader who can more thoroughly attend to the needs of each person. Small groups are also more mobile and flexible as travel plans can be more easily altered en route.
Most of our travelers are in their late 30s to late 60s/early 70s and most are solo travelers. Generally, we get a good mix of diverse people and every trip is unique thanks to the group dynamic.
The minimum age on our trips is 18.
Everyone is welcome on our trips; male/female, LGBTQIA+/straight, and solos/couples.
Check out the pictures from our past trips to get an idea of the group dynamic by clicking HERE.
While most daily activities are already included in the trip price, you will have some free time and the tour leader can recommend and/or help arrange any activity that might interest you. Activities in your free time are not included in the trip cost and are at your own expense.
Airport pick-up is not included in this trip. The arrival airport is Hanoi, Vietnam (HAN), and is approximately 17 miles (28 km) from the hotel in Hanoi. It takes about 45 minutes by car to get there to get from the airport. Upon arrival, you can take a taxi or pre-arrange airport pick-up with the provider of your choice. See our blog about getting from the Hanoi airport to the city center for more details.
Airport drop-off is also not included on this trip. The departure airport is Phnom Penh, Cambodia (PNH), and is approximately 8 miles (12 km) from your hotel in Phnom Penh. It takes about 30 minutes by car to get there from the hotel. The hotel can help you arrange a taxi to the airport.
Most nationalities traveling to Vietnam and Cambodia need an e-visa that can be obtained online before arrival in both countries.
For this trip, you’ll need a single-entry visa, valid for up to 30 days in each country. To apply for the e-visas online, please click on the links below:
Vietnam e-Visa Application
Cambodia e-Visa Application
If you are unsure if you are eligible for an e-visa to either country, please check with the nearest Vietnamese or Cambodian embassy or consulate for information on visas and travel to both countries.
We will contact you 90 days before the trip starts to remind you to apply for the visa. To see instructions on how to get a visa for each country, please click the following links:
How to get the Vietnam visa
How to get the Cambodia visa
As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.
The official currency of Vietnam is the dong (VND). Many shops and stores will only accept VND. You may find some tourist shops that accept USD. If you pay in USD, you will almost always get VND back in change. As a general rule, you will pay for almost everything in VND.
The official currency of Cambodia is the riel (KHR). KHR and USD are accepted almost equally at shops, restaurants, street food vendors, hotels, cafes, bars, etc., and can also be used as tips. Therefore, we highly recommend going to the bank before your trip and getting some USD that are small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20). If you pay in USD, you will almost always get KHR back in change.
Find out the live mid-market rate for your currency by using a currency converter online.
We strongly recommend using ATMs while in Vietnam and Cambodia as they usually offer the best exchange rates. The easiest way is to withdraw some money from the ATM at the airport upon arrival and throughout your trip. It is always a good idea to carry some cash on you in case your bank puts a hold on your ATM card. Your tour leader in Vietnam will help you to find ATMs. In Cambodia, ATMs are very easy to find and nearly everywhere.
It’s important to tell your bank and/or credit card company that you’ll be using your card in Vietnam and Cambodia. Some banks block transactions in foreign countries if they haven’t been forewarned of your travel plans.
Upon arrival, your tour leaders can show you the nearest ATM or money exchange office near the hotel to help you exchange or withdraw money if needed.
Credit and debit cards aren’t widely accepted in Vietnam and Cambodia. However, in high-end establishments such as expensive shops, restaurants, and in your hotels, you shouldn’t have a problem paying with your card, though American Express and Discover aren’t commonly accepted. Anywhere else, it’s advisable to carry cash in case you come across a retailer that cannot take card payments.
Vietnam and Cambodia do not have a strong tipping culture. In restaurants, taxis and personal services, all tips are at your discretion. If you do decide to tip, around 10% of the total bill is acceptable.
Tour leaders: If you feel they did an exceptional job, then you can tip around 50 – 80 USD per tour leader at the end of your trip based on past travelers’ feedback.
For more information about tipping your tour leaders, please see our blog on tipping your tour guide.
We recommend having access to anywhere between $400 – 700 USD either in cash or by credit/debit card. We strongly advise budgeting more than you plan to spend in case of an emergency.
As most components of your trip have been prepaid, you will only need money for lunches and dinners and any optional activity you may want to participate in. If you are an avid shopper or enjoy a cocktail in the evening, these costs are incurred at your own expense.
When using your phone overseas, be sure to check with your provider to get informed about data and call roaming prices. When you land in Vietnam and Cambodia, you will usually get a message from your provider that will give you the price of data, calls and texts in that country. See the example below:
Welcome to Vietnam/Cambodia! Your plan gives you unlimited data at up to 2G speeds and texts at no extra cost. Calls at 20 cents/min. Want our fastest data and unlimited calls? Get an International Pass for just $5/day.
You may consider contacting your service provider to learn about what kind of international plans they offer for calls, texts and data.
All hotels you will be staying at in Vietnam and Cambodia will offer free Wifi as will some restaurants and other public places. Please keep in mind that the internet may not be as fast as you’re used to and could be spotty if not absent in more remote areas.
In remote areas such as Halong Bay, Wifi can be spotty, weak, or completely absent. Be prepared to ‘disconnect’ when traveling in this area.
In Vietnam and Cambodia, the most common plug is a dual plug that fits European and US pin plugs (see picture below). Vietnam and Cambodia operate on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. Converters might be necessary for your electronic devices.
In Vietnam and Cambodia, it is warm to hot almost all year round so it’s best to pack summer clothes. When visiting temples, women need to make sure to have their knees and shoulders covered. To make things easy, we recommend bringing a scarf to cover your shoulders.
Below are a few things that we suggest bringing to make your trip more comfortable:
- Sunglasses/hat
- Flashlight/headlamp
- Umbrella (for shade & rain)
- Bathing suit
- Comfortable walking shoes (with good ankle support)
- Scarf/light clothing covering knees & shoulders (for women at temples)
- Light jacket/cardigan (for cooler nights)
- Flip flops/sandals
- Sunscreen (biodegradable if possible)
- Shampoo/conditioner/soap*
- Small backpack or across-the-shoulder bag for the day
- Diarrhea medicine
- Constipation medicine
- Motion sickness medicine
- Prescription medication (if needed)
- Snacks for the road (Cliff bars, nuts, etc.)
- An extra duffle bag (for souvenirs if you are an avid shopper)
- Overnight bag (for 1 night at Halong Bay)
- Adapters/converters (if needed)
- Mosquito repellent (DEET strength)
- Cold neck wrap (for hot days at Angkor)
- Mask (for dusty tuk tuk rides)
- Wet wipes/Napkins (no toilet paper in some public bathrooms)
*All hotels will have a hairdryer and small toiletries kit but if you want extra shampoo, conditioner, or soap, you can bring your own.
Almost all of the hotels on this trip offer laundry services for a fee if needed. It is best to give laundry to the hotel staff in the morning and it is usually ready by the next day.
Most will agree that the drinking water in Vietnam and Cambodia is safe for brushing your teeth but is not recommended for drinking. Drinking only bottled water is recommended. Bottled water is easily found and can be purchased for a fee.
You can purchase bottled water but to alleviate the plastic waste epidemic, we recommend a reusable filtered water bottle like LifeStraw or Grayl.
Vietnam and Cambodia are generally safe countries in terms of violent and non-violent crime. The most common crime that occurs is petty crime such as taxi/tuk-tuk rip-offs. As with any travel destination, it is important to choose carefully before getting into any taxi and to negotiate the price before leaving.
As with any destination, it is always a good idea to avoid flashy or expensive-looking jewelry and to avoid putting anything in your back pockets when traveling around touristy areas or larger towns and cities.
The US State Department offers general travel information about Vietnam and Cambodia. See below for more information:
US State Department Travel to Vietnam
US State Department Travel to Cambodia
Hotels and restaurants throughout Vietnam and Cambodia offer a wide variety of foods. When making your reservation, please notify us of your specific requests such as gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, etc. Alternative options will always be possible throughout the trip although options might be limited.
We offer private tours to Vietnam and Cambodia depending on the size of the group and availability.
Please reach out to us at info@globe-drifters.com for more information.
Flights
Your arrival city is Hanoi, Vietnam (HAN) and your departure city is Phnom Penh, Cambodia (PNH).
*Please do not purchase any flights until you receive an email from us. You will receive an email regarding your trip within 24 – 48 hours of booking.
Visas
Australian, Canadian, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and United States passport holders must obtain a visa in order to travel to Vietnam and Cambodia. It is the responsibility of each traveler to obtain the appropriate visas. We recommend the e-visa as it is the most convenient and time-efficient method. Please be sure to give yourself enough time to allow for the processing of all visa-related documents.
If you are from a country other than those listed above, please check with your nearest Vietnamese or Cambodian Embassy or Consulate about your visa requirements.
To obtain your e-visa for Vietnam and Cambodia, please consult the links below:
Vietnamese E-Visa
Cambodian E-Visa
*We will email you instructions on how to obtain the visa needed for travel to Vietnam and Cambodia about 90 days before the trip.
As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.
On this trip, you will stay in charming boutique hotels and on a premium cruise ship. All of the places you will stay at have been hand-selected by us for their central location, impeccable service, and quality.
Hanoi
Set in the busy Hanoi Old Quarter, this hotel offers an on-site Vietnamese restaurant, coffee shop and spa. The hotel’s restaurant is consistently ranked in the top 10 on TripAdvisor and serves up delicious Vietnamese specialties. The rooftop bar is also recommended as it comes alive at night with great city views. At the spa, you can choose from a Vietnamese rice scrub or a traditional herbal massage with most massages, facials, and scrubs; a welcome treat after your long flight!
Halong Bay
This cruise line offers an itinerary to untouched areas in Halong Bay. You’ll stay on a premium boat with spacious rooms and every room has its own private balcony. Plus, there’s a bathtub in every cabin. Perfect for luxurious bubble baths while gazing out the giant one-way window that offers great views of the picturesque Halong Bay as you sail.
Hoi An
Situated at the heart of Hoi An, this boutique hotel exemplifies the heart of Hoianese people: hospitable, honest, and welcoming. The hotel has a restaurant serving local specialties, a bar for a drink to cap off your day of adventures, a swimming pool with a bar to cool off, and a spa if you’d like to treat yourself to a massage.
Siem Reap
This boutique hotel is set amid lush tropical gardens and has a large swimming pool as well as tropical rooftop gardens. It is ideally located in the center of Siem Reap city and shopping and nightlife are just a short tuk-tuk ride away. There is a spa on the property along with rooftop, air-conditioned, or poolside dining
Phnom Penh
This boutique hotel boasts unique architecture with lush gardens, striking staircases, and a glass-bottomed pool. It features on-site options for drinking and dining and its rooftop bar offers views of the city skyline that are unparalleled.
We recommend that you purchase trip/travel insurance for your trip. We work with Travelex which offers travel protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans include coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical and emergency evacuation/repatriation, trip delay, baggage delay, and more. Otherwise, you are welcome to shop around online for a provider and policy that best suits your needs.
For more information on the recommended plans or to enroll, click on the image below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792. Globe Drifters’ reference location number is 09-0984.
The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. 11.17 E7N
