Gourmet Voyage on the Mekong 7 Days

Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to your hotel in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Take some time to unwind before embarking on a guided walk along Dong Khoi Street, a historic thoroughfare that has evolved from its French colonial roots into Saigon’s bustling commercial hub. Admire the blend of local boutiques, international brands, and charming restaurants housed in beautifully restored colonial buildings.

In the evening, dine at the Ly Club, where Executive Chef Dessi De Vries crafts a fusion of Western and Vietnamese dishes, using classical French techniques and local spices to create a memorable culinary experience.

• Meals: Dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Transportation: Private Vehicle

This morning, join a local chef for a hands-on cooking class. Start with a visit to a vibrant market to select fresh ingredients, then learn to prepare classic Vietnamese dishes like summer rolls and rice noodle soups. Savor the fruits of your labor during a delightful lunch.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, perhaps relaxing at The Deck, a chic riverside venue with stunning views of the Saigon River. Later, indulge in a countryside-inspired dinner at Cuc Gach Quan, where traditional dishes like clay-pot-stewed pork belly and homemade tofu are served with a contemporary twist. For a more casual experience, explore the city’s street food scene at the open-air Quan An Ngon restaurant, where you can sample Vietnamese favorites prepared by curbside chefs.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Transportation: Private Vehicle

Leave the hustle and bustle of Saigon behind as you journey south to My Tho, where you’ll board a luxurious boutique ship. As you sail along the serene Mekong River, enjoy a welcome drink and settle into your elegant cabin. Watch the sunset from your private balcony before attending a briefing in the lounge, followed by a sumptuous welcome dinner as the ship anchors midstream near Cai Be.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Overnight Cruise
• Transportation: Private Vehicle, Boat

Start your day with a peaceful tai chi session on the sundeck, followed by a visit to Cai Be’s vibrant floating market aboard a traditional sampan. As you glide through the market, you’ll witness the daily rhythms of life on the Mekong Delta and stop to learn how local products like rice paste and coconut candies are made.

In the afternoon, visit Binh Thanh Island, where the entire community is involved in crafting water hyacinths into floor mats and baskets. Return to the ship for a tranquil evening cruise towards Chau Doc, with plenty of time to relax on board.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Overnight Cruise
• Transportation: Boat

Begin your day in Chau Doc, known as the fish sanctuary of Vietnam. After breakfast, explore the local market and visit a Cham Muslim community village. A boat trip to the floating villages and catfish farms provides a glimpse into the region’s thriving aquaculture industry.

In the afternoon, the ship sets sail for Phnom Penh, crossing the border into Cambodia. Enjoy the onboard amenities, including cooking classes and guided tours, or simply relax and watch the scenery drift by.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Overnight Cruise
• Transportation: Boat

Arrive in Phnom Penh early in the morning, greeted by the stunning riverfront views of the city. After breakfast, disembark and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, explore the city’s historic architecture by cyclo, including colonial-era buildings and post-independence structures. The tour includes visits to landmarks like the Independence Monument, Central Market, Post Office, and Wat Phnom, providing a fascinating glimpse into Phnom Penh’s rich history and culture.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Transportation: Private Vehicle, Boat, Cyclo

This morning, visit the National Museum, home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of Khmer art, followed by a tour of the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. Afterward, enjoy some free time for shopping at the bustling Russian Market. Your tour concludes with a transfer to the airport for your departure flight, leaving you with cherished memories of your journey through Vietnam and Cambodia.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: None
• Transportation: Private Vehicle