Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River with Hanoi, Ha Long Bay & Bangkok (Northbound) (Saigon)
Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River with Hanoi, Ha Long Bay & Bangkok (Northbound) (Saigon)
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Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand with the "Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River" tour. Begin in Hanoi, exploring historic sites and enjoying a traditional water puppets performance. Cruise the stunning Ha Long Bay before flying to Ho Chi Minh City for a walking tour and a Vietnamese cooking class. Discover the Cu Chi Tunnels and embark on a river cruise along the Mekong, visiting local workshops and markets. Cross into Cambodia to explore Phnom Penh's Royal Palace and the poignant Killing Fields. Experience the ancient temples of Angkor in Siem Reap, including Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm. Conclude your adventure in Bangkok with a boat ride on the klongs and visits to iconic temples. Enjoy luxurious accommodations and guided excursions, with ample leisure time to soak in the vibrant cultures and landscapes of Southeast Asia. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Hanoi,Vietnam
Accommodation Name: Lotte Hotel Hanoi
Welcome to Vietnam!
HANOI, VIETNAM Welcome to Vietnam!
Ship Details
Avalon Saigon

Ship Overview
Since first taking her maiden voyage on the Mekong River, the Avalon Saigon has been praised for delivering an intimate cruise experience as part of Avalon's award-winning fleet of Suite Ships®. Named "Best New River Cruise Ship" by TravelAge West, the Saigon sails with a maximum of just 36 guests, delivering all the modern features you expect from Avalon Waterways, while incorporating the unique character and charm of Southeast Asia. The Avalon Saigon is designed to venture easily into areas where other cruise ships cannot, while measuring as wide and long as ships carrying twice the number of our just 36 guests. Cruising uninterrupted from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh (or vice versa), the Saigon eliminates hours of motorcoach travel time associated with other river cruise ship itineraries. The Avalon Saigon Suite Ship incorporates the classic colonial charm befitting the Vietnam and Cambodia experience with the modern features you expect from Avalon. Each Panorama Suite features 245-square-feet of living space with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows to create river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony. With luxurious beds that face the window, you'll never miss a fascinating view on the Mekong. You'll also find ample room to roam on board, while never feeling crowded. From the air-conditioned Panorama Lounge to the open-air observation lounge, you'll find plenty of seating and inviting spots to relax. With lounges located at the front of the ship, you'll always have a great forward-focused view no matter where you sit. Our crew embodies Avalon's "you first" spirit from start to finish. From the reception staff and bartender to wait staff and room attendant, you'll experience exquisite service with a relaxed luxury that's come to encompass the Avalon difference.
Ship Details
Ship Name:
Avalon Saigon
Adults Only Areas:
kids allowed
Ship Children Facilities:
none
Ship Nursery:
none
Smoking Areas:
some
Ship Size:
mini
Ship Style:
luxury
Ship Type:
river
Ship Currency:
USD
Ship Language:
en-GB
Ship Capacity:
36
Ship Crew Count:
24
Number of Decks:
4
Number of Cabins:
18
Number of Large Cabins:
0
Number of Wheelchair-Friendy Cabins:
2
Ship Launch Year:
2018
Ship Gross Tonnage:
950
Ship Length (Meters):
60 M
Ship Speed (Knots):
9 Kn
Deck Plans
Mekong Deck
Navigation Bridge (8)Fitness Centre (9)Cabin B - Mekong Deck
Tonle Deck
Open-air Observation Lounge (1)Panorama Lounge (2)Bar (3)Reception (4)Spa Treatment Room (5)Dining Room (6)Galley (7)Cabin A - Tonle Deck
Cabins
Designed with you in mind, the well-appointed Avalon Suites each feature an expansive 245 square feet of living space, and attractive decor that exudes the charm and grace of Southeast Asia.
Cabin B - Mekong Deck (Grade B)
Comfort Collection BedsEgyptian super-combed cotton linensSoft & firm pillowsChoice of bed configurationNightly turn-down serviceBedside tables with reading lamps14' Wall-to-Wall Panoramic window measuring that opens to create a large Open-Air BalconyLarge private bathroom featuring full shower with glass door, hairdryer, and premium L'Occitane bath amenitiesSpacious closets with shelves for ample storageEasy under-bed luggage storageAlarm clockWriting desk/vanity with mirror & comfortable chairIn-house telephoneBathrobes & slippersComplimentary waterIn-room safeIndividual climate controlOne King-Sized Bed or Two TwinsUSB Ports
Cabin A - Tonle Deck (Grade A)
Comfort Collection BedsEgyptian super-combed cotton linensSoft & firm pillowsChoice of bed configurationNightly turn-down serviceBedside tables with reading lamps14' Wall-to-Wall Panoramic window measuring that opens to create a large Open-Air BalconyLarge private bathroom featuring full shower with glass door, hairdryer, and premium L'Occitane bath amenitiesSpacious closets with shelves for ample storageEasy under-bed luggage storageAlarm clockWriting desk/vanity with mirror & comfortable chairIn-house telephoneBathrobes & slippersComplimentary waterIn-room safeIndividual climate controlOne King-Sized Bed or Two TwinsUSB Ports
Dining
With Avalon, every dining experience brings your destination to life. They start with fresh, quality ingredients and delectable recipes that are crafted by their culinary experts. Try authentic dishes from Vietnam and Cambodia — or more familiar Western alternatives.
Dining Room
The menu at the Dining Room features a selection of Southeast Asia cuisine and local specialties, based on season and made with fresh local ingredients as well as popular Western dishes. Breakfast and lunch here are buffet-style, the 4-course dinner is served with complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks. (complimentary)
Entertainment
With Avalon, the onboard ship experience is as lively and captivating as your time on shore! Get behind the scenes as you tour the Galley and Bridge and join new friends for special events or movie nights.
Complimentary tea, coffee, soft drinks, local beer/spirits are offered on board throughout the day.
Gift Shop
The onboard Gift Shop offers guests the chance to purchase Cambodian and Vietnamese hand-made souvenirs, traditional clothing, fashion accessories, special occasion gifts, and jewellery.
Observation Lounge
There is an open-air observation lounge with shade system and premium lounge chairs, up on the Top Deck, gives guests a prime view to enjoy with a drink in hand.
Panorama Lounge
For some casual relaxation and discussion guests can visit the Panorama Lounge, with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows for a stunning view. The Panorama Lounge is the Ship's entertainment venue, with stylish furniture, full-service bar and a self-serve beverage station. Here guests can watch a live evening show program by local performers, including dancers and musicians. Depending on the visited ports along the Avalon Saigon itinerary on Mekong river, the Panorama Lounge also hosts Cambodia and Vietnam culture and history related lectures and multimedia presentations by local speakers. Another entertainment options at the Lounge are the Afternoon Tea service, cocktail hours and movie nights.
Kids and Teens
Avalon allow travellers from the ages of 8 and over although there are no children’s facilities on-board.
Health & Fitness
Saying hello to adventure doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to your healthy habits and restorative rituals. From heart-healthy menu options and heart-pumping activities to mindful yoga moves, Avalon makes it easy to remain a picture of health amidst the most beautiful scenery in the world.
Fitness Centre
On the lower deck, guests can keep fit and release some tension in the small but well equipped Fitness Suite.
Fitness Centre & Treatment Room
On the lower deck, guests can keep fit and release some tension in the small but well equipped Fitness Suite.Up on the Top Deck, guests can also make use of the serene Spa Treatment room, managed by professional masseurs. Treatments range from massage to body wraps, and booked by appointment only.
Spa Treatment Room
Up on the Top Deck, guests can also make use of the serene Spa Treatment room, managed by professional masseurs. Treatments range from massage to body wraps, and booked by appointment only.
Gratuities
Gratuities are included for your Cruise Director and Ship’s Crew only and does not include Local Hosts, Local Guides and drivers. For the Egyptian sailing please note that gratuities are not included for your Cruise Director, Ships Crew, Local Hosts, Local Guides or drivers.
Useful Information
Accessibility
Avalon Waterways makes reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled and mobility impaired travellers but is not responsible in the event it is unable to do so. Because we cannot provide individual assistance to travellers in many situations, and most of our transportation services are not equipped with wheelchair ramps, we recommend that you view our terms and conditions for details and contact us to learn more.
Age Restrictions
Avalon Waterways have found over the years that cruising holidays are not ideal for young children. For this reason, they do not take bookings for children under 8 years of age and there are no special arrangements or activities for children on board.
Air Conditioning & Heating
All rooms on the ships are air conditioned and heated. All ships have individual controls in the staterooms.
Dietary Requirements
We know that some travelers may have specific dietary requests. Unfortunately, dietary requirements cannot be guaranteed on our vacations. We make our best effort to accommodate your requests, but our vessels, as well as hotels and restaurants, may not be able to manage specific diet requirements. Dietary requirements should be advised at time of booking and we ask that you also discuss these with your Hotel Manager upon embarkation.
Disabled Facilities
Not all sightseeing stops/sites accommodate wheelchairs, and some locations and sightseeing activities require extensive standing, sitting, or walking—sometimes on unpaved or cobblestone streets. Avalon is not responsible for any missed activities due to a participant's inability to participate with the group. Most transportation services, including the touring coaches and river ships, are not equipped with wheelchair ramps. Motorised scooters and motorised wheelchairs are not permitted on Avalon cruises. Collapsible wheelchairs are permitted on board but for safety reasons, the number is limited and wheelchair maximum size must not exceed 1200mm/47.24 in length x 720mm/28.3 in wide. You must notify Avalon of your intention to bring a wheelchair at time of booking to ensure Avalon can accommodate within safety regulations. There is no separate storage for wheelchairs; they must be kept in your stateroom. Additionally stateroom doors and restrooms are not wide enough to allow access by standard wheelchairs, and bathrooms and other doorways may be fitted with coamings. For safety reasons, passengers in wheelchairs cannot be carried on ramps in ports where the ship is at anchor.
Dress Code
Your comfort is our first concern. Onboard and onshore dress codes are casual. Please bring comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing. Dinner attire is casual—open-neck shirts and slacks for men; slacks, skirts, or dresses for ladies. Coats and ties may be worn if preferred. The Welcome and Farewell Dinners in Europe are dressy, but not formal. On the Mekong, Amazon, and Galápagos, dress attire, including coats and ties, is not recommended due to the warm, humid climate.
Economic Initiatives
Tourism cares, Traveller iconsOur passion for showing you the world is only matched by our dedication to help preserve both historic treasures° and natural resources to be enjoyed for generations to come. That's why we partner with Tourism Cares, a non-profit initiative that focuses funding of "Traveler Icons" of North and South America.Rural AidAustralia is not only home to some of the world's most unique wildlife, but its vast and varied landscapes makes it one of the most interesting places on Earth. That is why we are dedicated to helping support Rural Aid, which focuses on providing assistance to farmers and rural communities in times of natural disaster° as well as supporting the sustainability of the agricultural community.
Environment
The right kind of FootprintsWith the philoshophy “take memories; leave only footprints”, we strive to protect and preserve each extraordinary destination for its people, wildlife, and future travelers by finding meaningful ways to reduce our environmental footprint. New! The Ocean CleanupNature's beauty is a gift to travelers and it is our commitment to preserve the precious environment around us. When you use disposable° plastic products like straws and utensils, they can wind up in our rivers and oceans forever. The Globus family of brands is proud to partner with The Ocean Cleanup in an effort to remove and reduce the presence of plastics in our oceans.Eliminating plastic useWe have taken great measures to make a positive impact on our guests while also reducing our own impact on the environment. Taking sustainability to greater depths, we are committed to removing° single-use plastic products—from straws to disposable water bottles on our motor coaches and ships by 2020
Internet Access
All Avalon ships in Europe have complimentary Wi-Fi available. On the Mekong, complimentary Wi-Fi access is available in the Panorama Lounge. The signal is not always reliable, as you will be cruising through remote areas. To access the ship's Wi-Fi Internet network, you will be given a PIN number at reception to use on your laptop, tablet, or mobile device. Wi-Fi is not available in the Amazon or Galápagos.
Laundry
Laundry service is available on board for a modest fee. Check the price list in your stateroom. Clothes cannot be dry cleaned on board. For safety reasons, we ask that passengers do not iron their clothes in the staterooms as this is a safety hazard. Onboard laundry service will press your clothes for a fee. Laundry service is not available in the Galápagos.
Social Initiative
MAKE-A-WISHBringing families together to experience some of the world's most remarkable destinations is what we do best. Globus family of brands is committed to supporting our local communities and is honored to partner with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to offer trips to children and their families facing life-threatening illnesses.Landmine DesignOur partnership with Landmine Design, a social enterprise committed to educate and provide jobs for women living in poverty in Cambodia, has provided dozens of women with the opportunity to work at home with their children and avoid the dangers of traveling to neighboring cities for work. By hand rolling paper beads and crafting them into beautiful jewelry, we are creating hope where there once was despair.Childsafe networkWe are committed to improving the lives of the individuals° who call our travel destinations home. As a partner of the Childsafe Network, we help raise awareness, provide education, training, employment, and shelter for children and their families who otherwise live on the streets, including the Kaliyan Mith program in Siem Reap, Cambodia.Wildland Firefighter FoundationFor over three decades, we have introduced travelers to the beauty of America's national parks. We are proud to recognize and honor the brave firefighters who risk their lives to help protect our private and public lands from fire. Each year, we contribute to the Wildland Firefighter Foundation, which provides immediate financial and crisis assistance to families of injured or fallen wildland firefighters.Wildlife Conservation NetworkWhen you travel with us, you are securing the future of the world's wildlife! By partnering with Wildlife Conservation Network, Globus helps to support a world network of leading conservationists with the most effective solutions° to saving our planet's wildlife—with every dollar translating into tangible, lasting impact on endangered wildlife and the long-term protection of 87 species in crisis across 38 countries.South African National Parks Honorary RangersEducation is critical to preserving protected lands and its inhabitants. That is why we make a contribution to the South African National Parks Honorary Rangers, who work tirelessly to protect and preserve South African National Parks. This includes the Lion Recovery Fund, which provides education to protect African Lion habitats and populations by preventing poaching and promoting co-existence for local farmers and communities.Globus gives backEvery year, Globus family of brands gives back to each° of our local office communities. Every year, on Earth Day, we come together to help restore trails at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater to preserve the beauty° of our state parks for future generations.UNICEFEvery child deserves to grow up in a safe and inclusive environment. That is why we are proud to support UNICEF in their efforts to help all children – especially the most disadvantaged and marginalized – to lead safe, healthy lives and realize their full potential.
Sustainable Travel
Avalon is committed to minimizing its impact on the environment and to reducing its dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.Avalon maintains a policy of "Leave Only Footprints and Take Only Photos." Our staff and major service providers strive to ensure that no removal of any natural or cultural artifacts or materials occurs to ensure each environment looks and functions the same before and after our visit. Our cruise directors educate passengers on our "do no harm" code of conduct to ensure passenger compliance.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation in a suite or stateroom of your choice is included.
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All Gratuities
All gratuities are included in the tour package.
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Avalon Adventure Host
An Avalon Adventure Host is available as your guide for fitness activities and active excursions.
What's Not Included
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Airport Transfers at Destination
Airport transfers at the destination are not included.
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International Travel
International travel to and from the tour starting point is not included.
Accommodation
Experience luxury at Lotte Hotel Hanoi, Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long, Park Hyatt Saigon, Park Hyatt Siem Reap, and JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok, offering exceptional comfort and amenities throughout your journey.Direction
NorthboundRivers
MekongMode of Transport
Travel seamlessly with flights between key destinations, including Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, and Siem Reap to Bangkok, complemented by scenic cruises on the Mekong River.Check out our Q&As
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What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of unique cultural experiences such as a water puppets performance in Hanoi, a traditional water blessing by local monks at Wat Hanchey, and a private Apsara dance performance in Siem Reap. Additionally, there are opportunities to interact with local families making sampan boats and conical hats, and to visit a local school in Angkor Ban. ...more ...less
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Are there any hands-on activities during the tour?
Yes, the tour offers several hands-on activities including a Vietnamese cooking class in Ho Chi Minh City where participants can learn to prepare local dishes. There is also a cotton-weaving demonstration in Long Khanh A and a visit to a noodle-making village in Siem Reap.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour utilizes various modes of transportation including flights between major cities, a cruise on the Mekong River, and local transport such as cyclos in Phnom Penh, tuk-tuks in Siem Reap, and ox carts in Kampong Tralach. There is also a boat ride on the klongs in Bangkok. ...more ...less
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What historical sites will be visited on this tour?
The tour includes visits to several historical sites such as Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum and the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh, and the temples of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Bayon Temple in Siem Reap. ...more ...less
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What kind of accommodations are provided during the tour?
Accommodations are provided in high-quality hotels such as the Lotte Hotel in Hanoi, Vinpearl Resort & Spa in Ha Long Bay, Park Hyatt in Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap, and JW Marriott Hotel in Bangkok.
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Cuisine
All meals on board are prepared by accomplished chefs who prepare regional specialties as well as familiar favorites with only the freshest, local ingredients. Our Suite Ships® feature daily buffet-style breakfast and lunch with your choice of soups, main courses with starter, salad, or sandwich, and, of course, dessert. Complimentary room service is also available with Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On the Mekong and Ganges, a mix of Western and local dishes is offered; in the Galápagos, you'll be able to taste some Ecuadorian specialties; and in the Amazon, you will be able to sample Peruvian specialties along with Western dishes.
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Cruise Director
A professional, experienced, English-speaking Cruise Director accompanies every departure. Naturalists are on board in the Amazon and Galápagos. Special Interest cruises typically include an expert specific to the cruise theme—from Wine Masters to History Experts.
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What about young travellers and children?
In our many years of cruising experience, we have found that children under the age of eight typically are too young to fully enjoy a cruise vacation. Because of this and for the safety and enjoyment of all passengers, we do not accept children under eight years of age. In addition, please note that there are no special arrangements or activities for children on our ships.
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What are single room supplements?
For single travellers who prefer the privacy of their own room and stateroom, single accommodation can, of course, be requested.
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Clothing & Dress Code
Your comfort is our first concern. Onboard and onshore dress codes are casual. Please bring comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing. Dinner attire is casual—open-neck shirts and slacks for men; slacks, skirts, or dresses for ladies. Coats and ties may be worn if preferred. The Welcome and Farewell Dinners in Europe are dressy, but not formal. On the Mekong, Ganges, Amazon, and Galápagos, dress attire, including coats and ties, is not recommended due to the warm, humid climate.
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When will I receive my digital travel documents?
Avalon will email you a set of travel documents, which includes a copy of your itinerary and, where applicable, information on your hotels and optional excursions. Electronic Travel documents, including applicable eTicket receipts, itineraries, and other information are sent approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure, provided full payment has been received.
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Where can I find the docking location for my cruise ship?
Avalon Waterways strives to bring you the best docking locations along Europe’s rivers. In many cities, this includes multiple docking sites. Docking positions at each port are assigned by local authorities, and may vary depending upon the number of ships in port on any given day. This can sometimes result in double-docking with more than one ship assigned to the same dock and the ships “rafted” together, temporarily obstructing some views from on board the ships. Exact docking locations will be available 24-72 hours prior to embarkation. Before your cruise’s docking location is available, you can download a map of all possible docking sites for your embarkation city at www.AvalonWaterwaysPorts.com. Once your ship’s docking assignment is available, you can download a map that shows only that specific location, including address.
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Are Avalon River Cruises Handicap Accessible?
Avalon Waterways makes reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled and mobility impaired travellers but is not responsible in the event it is unable to do so. Because we cannot provide individual assistance to travellers in many situations, and most of our transportation services are not equipped with wheelchair ramps, we recommend that you view our terms and conditions for details or contact us to learn more.
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Internet Access
All Avalon ships in Europe have complimentary Wi-Fi available. On the Mekong and Ganges, complimentary Wi-Fi access is available in the Panorama Lounge. The signal is not always reliable, as you will be cruising through remote areas. To access the ship's Wi-Fi Internet network, you will be given a PIN number at reception to use on your laptop, tablet, or mobile device. Wi-Fi is not available in the Amazon or Galápagos.
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Onboard Language
The language on board is English. All staff, crew, and tour guides speak English. All announcements and commentary will be in English.
Reviews of this operator
Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Avalon Waterways requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of avalon waterways charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 35% of booking price.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River with Hanoi, Ha Long Bay & Bangkok (Northbound) (Saigon)
19 Days Starting in Hanoi, Vietnam and ending in Bangkok, Thailand
Visiting: Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia
Tour operator:
Ship Name:
Avalon SaigonGuide Type:
Fully Guided
Ship Capacity:
36
Age range:
8-99