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Vietnam & Cambodia Mekong River All-Gay Cruise 2024
12 nights from Siem Reap, Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
October 31 November 12, 2024
Lotus Cruises Mekong Jewel
We invite you to join us for a 13-day, LGBT+, all-inclusive, guaranteed full ship charter, featuring the mighty Mekong River and the Temples of Angkor Wat. There can be no more striking cultural contrast than tranquil Cambodia and bustling Vietnam. From the diverse countryside of Cambodia to the Mekong Delta, so rich in human life and endeavor, you’ll discover two countries, two cultures, and two ways of life linked by one river, the Mekong.
Also included is a three-night stay in Siem Reap including an in-depth visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Angkor Wat, and a two-night stay in bustling Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), each featuring five-star, centrally-located hotels.
Cruise aboard the all-suite, luxurious Mekong Jewel, specially built to ply the Mekong River from Kampong Cham, Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City. Embracing an elegant French-colonial design similar to the many homes that once lined the streets of old Saigon, she boasts spacious suites from 323 square feet up to an expansive 915 square feet in size. From here, you will enjoy all the wonders the Mekong has to offer in sophisticated, yet comfortable style. With never more than 24 guests per expert guide, you will enjoy enriching lectures, a comprehensive series of well-planned excursions, and most meals and beverages!
Vietnam & Cambodia Mekong River All-Gay Cruise Itinerary
Day 1 - October 31, 2024
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Arrive at the Siem Reap airport (REP), where you will be greeted by a Brand g representative, who will transfer you to the elegant and serene Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort. There will be an informal meet and greet around 5:30 for those who have arrived.
Day 2 - November 01, 2024
Siem Reap - Angkor Wat
You’ll begin your day at Angkor Wat, the most recognizable landmark in Cambodia, and the largest religious monument in the world, with the longest continuous bas-relief sculpture in existence. Enjoy lunch at a local Khmer restaurant. This afternoon, tour the city center of Siem Reap by tuk tuk (motorcycle rickshaw) for an introduction to Siem Reap’s many dining and shopping options, and a stop at a traditional artists’ workshop. This evening, guests will enjoy a private dinner with Apsara show at our hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dnner
Day 3 - November 02, 2024
Siem Reap - Angkor Thom
This morning, we enter through the south gate of Angkor Thom for a guided tour of Bayon (the temple with the faces), then walk around the back of Bauphoun, and along the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. We continue to visit Ta Prohm, which has been overtaken by the jungle, with tentacle-like tree roots spilling over centuries-old walls and roofs, enveloping much of the structure. Then enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. This afternoon, you’ll visit Banteay Srey, considered to be the pinnacle of artistic achievement at Angkor, and Banteay Samré. Enjoy this evening at your own leisure.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 4 - November 03, 2024
Siem Reap / Kampong Cham / Embarkation
This morning is yours to relax and enjoy the hotel property or do some last minute shopping. This afternoon we travel to Kampong Cham, with lunch en route, to embark the ship. Following the informative Welcome Briefing, and meeting with our friendly crew, a Cambodian themed dinner is served in the Topaz Dining Room.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Welcome Dinner
Day 5 - November 04, 2024
Wat Hanchey / Angkor Ban / Phnom Penh
This morning, you walk up the hill to the local monastery of *Wat Hanchey and receive a traditional Buddhist Water Blessing from the resident monks. After enjoying a walk around the monastery and the amazing views of the Mekong River valley, you descend 303 steps and return to the ship. *For gentle walkers, there is a coach provided to bring you up the hill. In the afternoon, we will visit the charming town of Angkor Ban. Here, you will have a glimpse into the lives of the local people, starting with a visit to a family’s home to see how the locals live, along with an opportunity to meet the family and discuss their lifestyle. Next, you will continue through the village to the local private school, where you will join the children in their classroom and experience what their typical school day is like. You will then walk back through the village to the ship, with an opportunity to take photos along the way, including a brief stop at the local monastery complex. Late this evening we arrive and dock in Phnom Penh.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6 - November 05, 2024
Phnom Penh
After breakfast on board this morning, meet your cyclo/Tuk Tuk driver for an exciting morning city tour of Phnom Penh. You are gently transported by your driver along the riverfront to the Royal Palace complex. Here, enjoy a leisurely walk through the grounds, viewing Throne Hall and Moonlight Pavilion, before visiting the famous Silver Pagoda, home of Cambodia’s Emerald Buddha and Maitreya Buddha, encrusted with more than 9,000 diamonds. Return to your Cyclo for the short ride to the National Museum, ending the morning with a comprehensive tour of the many Angkorian-period artifacts excavated at the Angkor Temple complex at Siem Reap. Enjoy a free afternoon in Phnom Penh with a variety of optional excursions from which to choose, or simply enjoy your time independently shopping or dining at one of the many wonderful restaurants and pubs nearby.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7 - November 06, 2024
Phnom Penh
This morning, learn more about the darkest days of Cambodian history. After a scenic 45-minute drive from the ship, you arrive at the Choeung Ek killing fields, where you may walk through the fields, visit the small museum and Memorial Stupa, and learn more about the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime. Before returning to the ship, tour Tuol Sleng (also known as S-21), the former school converted to the main prison and torture headquarters of the Khmer Rouge. After returning to the ship, enjoy a free afternoon in Phnom Penh – shopping, dining at one of the many wonderful restaurants, participating in an optional cooking class, or exploring the city independently. This evening after dinner we’ll have an optional excursion visiting the local gay bars of Phnom Pehn.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8 - November 07, 2024
Phnom Penh / Border Crossing / Long Khanh Island
This morning, we depart Phnom Penh to sail downstream to the Cambodia/Vietnam border. Enjoy a leisurely cruise, taking in the sights along the Mekong River. Some activities will be offered on board, as well. Late this afternoon, we undergo border formalities, then cruise to Long Khanh Island.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 9 - November 08, 2024
Long Khanh Island / Cu Lao Gieng
This morning, sampans take you to the local island village of Hong Ngu. Hong Ngu produces a large number of the traditional, Khmer scarves exported to Cambodia. Created in many homes around the village, you will have the opportunity to see the weaving process. Some villagers are also embroidery artists, displaying their art in and around the homes. The inhabitants of this area are especially friendly and welcoming. Before returning to the sampans, we will walk around this evergreen island and visit the home of a local War Veteran. In the afternoon, your sampans will bring you to Gieng Island, for a visit to a local village where hundreds of sampans and rowing boats are made daily.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10 - November 09, 2024
Sa Dec / Cai Be / My Tho
Upon arrival to Sa Dec, visit the home of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, the inspiration of Marguerite Duras’ novel, L’Amant (The Lover), as well as the Chinese Temple which was build in honor of the Huynh Thuy Le Family. There, you will be welcomed by traditional Chinese Lions Dances. On your itinerary is a walk through the town’s market, where you experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the colorful fresh produce, meat, live fish and seafood for sale. After returning to the ship for lunch, guests enjoy an afternoon cruise to Cai Be. After, we board our sampans to visit a traditional rice factory, where workers produce rice paper, rice wine, popped rice, and many varieties of traditional candies. This evening, we will gather for a Farewell Reception with the entire crew, before enjoying a Cambodian Farewell Dinner in Le March Dining Room.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 11 - November 10, 2024
My Tho (Disembarkation) / Ho Chi Minh City
After breakfast, bid farewell to the Mekong Jewel and enjoy a scenic drive to Ho Chi Minh City, where we begin our tour of the city’s incredible French Colonial architecture, including the Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Tonight is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 12 - November 11, 2024
Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi
After breakfast at the hotel this morning, enjoy a tour to the town of Cu Chi, where the local Vietnamese lived underground during the Vietnam war. This incredible complex features underground homes and tunnels, as well as examples of the traps used to maim and kill soldiers. This evening, we bid farewell, with a special farewell dinner.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 13 - November 12, 2024
Ho Chi Minh City Departure
Transfer to the airport for your flight home, or continue with us to Hanoi & Halong Bay. Hotel check out is at Noon.
Meals: Breakfast
Hanoi and Halong Bay – Optional Post-Program Itinerary
Day 13 - November 12, 2024
Hanoi Arrival
Morning flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi. Following lunch, we visit The Temple of Literature. Built in the early 11th century, it became Vietnam’s first university. After, we enjoy an electric cart ride through the city’s charming historic quarter to explore the hidden alleys, cafes and shops. After some time to relax and refresh, we enjoy an included dinner. Overnight in Hanoi at Intercontinental Westlake Hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 14 - November 13, 2024
Hanoi – Half Day City Tour
Today we visit the Hoa Lo prison ("Hanoi Hilton") and learn about the decades preceding its use as a place for holding American POWs. It was used by the French to imprison Vietnamese patriots. We then transfer back to the center to Hoan Kiem Lake & its legendary Ngoc Son Temple and The Huc Bridge. Then watch a charming water puppet performance, followed by dinner at the Ly Club.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 15 - November 14, 2024
Hanoi – Ha Long Bay
This morning following breakfast, we transfer to Ha Long via motor coach. We’ll arrive to the Paradise Elegance around 12:30. After check-in and a short briefing about our cruise, we’ll enjoy our welcome lunch at Le Marin Restaurant. During lunch we sail toward Ha Long Bay, passing the famous Fighting Cocks Islet, and Thien Cung and Dau Go Caves.
Following lunch, your first excursion is a visit to Tung Sau Pearl Farm, an area in Ha Long Bay dedicated to growing pearls and practicing a handmade technique based on Vietnamese tradition and Japanese technology. This is also an ideal destination for kayaking. Later this afternoon we visit the magnificent Sung Sot Cave, where you can take in the panoramic views across Halong Bay after visiting the cave. Alternatively, you can opt for an afternoon of pampering at Le Parfum Spa or an afternoon tea in Le Piano Bar. Once back on board there will be a cooking demonstration and pre-dinner sunset cocktails. We anchor overnight at Coconut Tree Island.
After dinner in Le Marin restaurant, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy live music at Le Piano Bar. Or, take the opportunity for squid fishing, a spa treatment at Le Parfum Spa or watch movies in your cabin.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 16 - November 15, 2024
Hanoi – Halong Bay
Early this morning, watch the sunrise while taking part in a Tai Chi session on L’Odyssée Sundeck, followed by a light breakfast in Le Piano Bar.
Around 7:30 we make a visit to Titov Island, where you can go swimming or hike to the top for another stunning, panoramic view of the bay. Once back on board, enjoy breakfast as we once again cruise past Thien Cung and Dau Go Caves and Fighting Cocks Islet.
After a late morning check- out, we return to shore and journey back to Hanoi, with an included lunch en-route.
Following lunch, we visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex: The Vietnamese leader’s mausoleum, which overlooks Ba Dinh Square; and Ho Chi Minh’s house, which is built on top of stilts surrounded by a botanical garden and lotus pond. Walk up the steps to see some of his belongings in his bedroom.
Following the tour, we return to the Intercontinental Hotel for check-in and some time to refresh before our farewell dinner tonight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 17 - November 16, 2024
Hanoi - Flights Home
Meals: Breakfast
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Jewels of Vietnam & Cambodia Mekong River All-Gay Cruise & Tour Itinerary
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Date |
Port |
Meals |
31 Oct |
Siem Reap, Cambodia |
D |
01 Nov |
Angkor Wat, Cambodia |
B, L, D |
02 Nov |
Angkor Thom, Cambodia |
B, L |
03 Nov |
Siem Reap / Kampong Cham, Cambodia |
B, L, D |
04 Nov |
Wat Hanchey / Angkor Ban / Phnom Penh |
B, L, D |
05 Nov |
Phnom Penh, Cambodia |
B, L, D |
06 Nov |
Phnom Penh, Cambodia |
B, L, D |
07 Nov |
Phnom Penh, Cambodia / Long Khanh, Vietnam |
B, L, D |
08 Nov |
Long Khanh / Cu Lao Gieng, Vietnam |
B, L, D |
09 Nov |
Sa Dec / Cai Be / My Tho, Vietnam |
B, L, D |
10 Nov |
My Tho / Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam |
B, L |
11 Nov |
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam |
B, D |
12 Nov |
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam |
B |
Vietnam & Cambodia All-Gay Cruise Highlights
• Visit the 12th century Angkorian temple complex of Wat Nokor Bachey
• Glide in wooden sampans to the historic An Kiet House and gardens in Cai Be, Vietnam
• Ride a Vietnamese tuk-tuk, or xe loi, to a family-owned mat weaving workshop
• Take a cyclo tour of Phnom Penh, including the Royal Palace, Throne Hall, Moonlight Pavilion, and the National Museum collection of Angkorian artifacts
• See Phnom Penh’s famous Silver Pagoda, home of Cambodia’s Emerald Buddha and the diamond-encrusted Maitreya Buddha
• From Phnom Pehn travel to Choeung Ek and see the Khmer Rouge Killing Fields, the memorial stupa, and Tuol Sleng (S-21 Prison)
• Tour a local school in the village of Wat Hanchey and receive a traditional Buddhist water blessing from the monks at the local monastery
• See Kampong Cham’s Phnom Pros (Man Hill), Phnom Srei (Woman Hill), the 33-foot long reclining Buddha, and the 42-foot tall preaching Buddha
Vietnam & Cambodia All-Gay Cruise Inclusions
• Brand g hosts throughout the program
• 3 nights deluxe hotel accommodations in Siem Reap, including daily breakfast, three lunches and one dinner
• 7-night cruise including all meals
• 2 nights deluxe hotel accommodations in Ho Chi Minh City, including daily breakfast, one lunch and one dinner
• Cruise includes free-flowing local spirits, house wines (wines with dinner only) and locally-produced beer and soft drinks
• Daily shore excursions and touring on both land and cruise
Hanoi and Halong Bay Post-Program Inclusions
• 3-night hotel accommodations at the Intercontinental Westlake Hotel, Hanoi, Vietnam, including buffet breakfast and luggage porterage. Accommodation in Lotus Suites, which include Club Lounge access, dedicated check-in, afternoon tea, twilight canapes and cocktails from 5-7pm, refreshments throughout the day, and complimentary pressing of two pieces per stay.
• Hanoi sightseeing
• Ha Long Bay one night cruise package including: meals and excursions
• Bottled water, coffee/tea and choice of 2 beverages with included meals (soft drinks, beer or wine)
• Hanoi to Ha Long Bay round-trip transfer by coach
• Luggage assistance at airport, hotel and junk boat
• Arrival and departure assistance at airport
• 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners
• Flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap
Accommodations
Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Just ten minutes away from the famed monuments of Angkor Wat, French colonial elegance sits amidst the manicured gardens of Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort. Our Angkor Spa Resort is one of the best hotels in Cambodia and proudly receives a banquet of awards each and every year.
The luxurious five-star Angkor hotel’s rooms entreat with serene design reflecting French sophistication and yesteryear refinement. A lavish swimming pool beloved by guests is surrounded by lush and opulent landscaping. Resort offers guests a wide variety of dining options, including French and international cuisines.
The Reverie Saigon Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
The Reverie Saigon has debuted as the most spectacularly extravagant hotel in Vietnam, and as the one and only member property of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ho Chi Minh City.
Taking pride of place on the topmost floors of the landmark Times Square Building in prestigious District 1, the much-lauded hotel presents world-class hospitality with its impeccable service and its unique celebration of haute Italian design and inimitable luxury.
Elegantly furnished, air-conditioned rooms come equipped with a wardrobe, mini-bar, a flat-screen TV and comfortable seating area. The private bathroom features a spa bathtub, shower facility, bathrobes and free toiletries. Ironing facilities are also available.
Your Ship - RV Mekong Jewel
Reminiscent in design of the French colonial-era manor homes that once lined the streets of old Saigon, the 34-suite/68-passenger Mekong Jewel lends a sophisticated, yet comfortable, ambiance while cruising the mighty Mekong River. Around every corner, guests will enjoy a blend of timeless elegance and modern luxuries as they experience the sights and sounds of a landscape that forever changes its visitors.
Accommodations on board the Mekong Jewel provide all the comfort and convenience of a five-star hotel, without denying you the thrills of complete immersion in the Mekong River experience. Spacious, well-appointed suites offer individual climate control, daily housekeeping with turn-down service, the finest bed linens and duvets, luxuriously soft robes and slippers, all-natural, therapeutic bath amenities, premium mattresses and pillow menu, flat-screen satellite TV, in-room electronic safe, complimentary minibar and complimentary wireless internet in all public areas, when available.
Mekong Jewel unique and spacious amenities feature a unique sundeck with jet pool and panoramic sky lounge, a choice of cosmopolitan dining experiences, an extensive library, elegant lounge area and a full fitness centre with spa.
Restaurant, Bar and Lounge Dine in the Topaz Dining Room or the more casual al fresco restaurant with glass curtains for breezier days. Both offer a gourmet selection of chef’s signature dishes from the region as well as western alternatives.
Sundeck and Sky bar An invitation to go with the flow, reclining in shaded comfort with your choice of freshly squeezed fruit on the glorious Sun Deck with a backdrop of serene unfolding landscape. Or rejuvenate your senses swimming against the flow in our underwater current Jet Pool. As evening falls gravitate to the extravagant open-air Emerald Sky Bar and Lounge where contemporary design blends with tropical paradise and personalised cocktails.
Library and lounge
Enjoy tales of ancient Indochina from our excellent selection of books in the Moonstone Library or share today’s stories with new friends in the charming climate-controlled Lounge.
Spa and Fitness
While sailing to the next destination, work out in the state-of-the art gym or simply enjoy a rejuvenating treatment at the La Vie Spa or infra-red sauna. There is also a hair salon and nailbar to complete your pampering session age.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I schedule my flights?
Arrival:
If you are on the main program only with no pre-trip extension, you should schedule your flights to arrive in Siem Reap (REP) by October 31st. The first scheduled activity will be an informal meet and greet on the evening of October 31st. The first tour takes place on the morning of November 1st.
Departures: You should schedule to fly home from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) at anytime on November 12, 2024. Hotel check out on the 12th is at 11:00am. If you are on the Hanoi and Halong Bay post-program extension, you should schedule your flights to depart from Hanoi (HAN) at anytime on November 16, 2024. Following the Halong Bay cruise we will return in Hanoi on November 15th. The last scheduled activity is our farewell dinner.
What are the passport and visa requirements?
Citizens of the US and Canada are required to have a valid passport, which is valid for six months after your last date of travel. Citizens of almost every country require tourist visas (in advance of travel) to enter Vietnam and Cambodia.
Cambodia: Tourist visas are valid for one month from the date of entry into Cambodia. Cambodia offers on-line visa processing. Tourists may also obtain a Cambodian visa at the airports in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and at all major border crossings. To obtain your visa upon entry, you will need two passport-sized (4cm by 6cm) photographs and a passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond the date of entry into Cambodia.
Vietnam: The Vietnamese consulate and our local Vietnam operators strongly recommend you obtain your visa in advance. You should obtain your visa 90 days prior to your last expected date in Vietnam For more information and to apply, follow this link. https://visa.mofa.gov.vn/Homepage.aspx.
Citizens of all other countries should check with the relevant consulate in their home country to verify entry requirements.
What arrival and departure transfers are included?
Arrival transfers are provided for guests on the Hanoi pre add-on from the Hanoi Airport (HAN) to the Intercontinental Westlake hotel.
Arrival transfers are provided for guests on the main programme, from Seam Reap Airport (REP) to the Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort.
Departure transfers are provided from The Reverie Saigon to the Ho Chi Minh City Airport (SGN).
Contact our team to ensure arrangements outside of these arrival and departure transfers will be included. Booked guests should provide their arrival and departure details 45 days prior to the trip to ensure transfer availability.
Departure transfers are provided for guests on the Hanoi post add-on from the Intercontinental Westlake hotel to the Hanoi Airport (HAN).
What should I expect on the included excursions?
Excursions during your travel program are mostly in groups of 25 people led by expert English speaking local guides. Utilizing wireless audio guides enables you to hear every word of your travel guide at absolutely all times. It provides maximum flexibility and convenience without missing a moment of fascinating commentary and is compatible with hearing aids.
What if I have dietary requirements?
We will make every effort to accommodate special dietary requests. Please inform our office at least 45 days prior to departure of these requests.
What are pre-paid gratuities?
Gratuities are customary expressions of appreciation for a job well done. It is our goal to ensure that the service you receive is as wonderful as the sites you visit. Gratuities for the included portions of this program have been pre-paid. At your own discretion you may choose to provide additional tips.
Is there a dress code?
You are on vacation as the last thing we want to impose is a dress code. We will however appreciate you wearing more than a thong or mankini at dinner and in the bar/performance area. Be as dressed up or down as you see fit as long as you are comfortable and dress appropriately for for changeable weather.
What weather can i expect from this trip?
Average temperatures:
Siem Reap : 89/83 degrees F
Ho Chi Minh City: 89/77 degrees F
Hanoi: 80/65 degrees F
Will there be smoking areas?
The comfort and safety of our guests is our first priority. Smoking is not permitted in the suites or enclosed, public areas on board. There is a designated smoking area on the Sun Deck.
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