The Perfect Combination

Transcription

1 Activity Level: Recreational Duration: 8 Days/7 Nights The Perfect Combination Experience Cambodia & Vietnam Cambodia and Vietnam: a magical combination in Southeast Asia. Visit Angkor Wat, enjoying the wonderful culture and people of Cambodia the jungle scenery is straight from a picture book. Then, it s on to Vietnam, still as charming and picturesque as the first time we visited here more than a decade ago. Most importantly, the people remain the same: gracious, warm, and infinitely inviting. We ll journey down the Mekong River on the luxurious Aqua Mekong, exploring the waterway s diversity of life and classic visions of Vietnam: rice-paddies, water buffalo, sampans, temples, and countless smiling locals. WHY B&R Each of our trips in Vietnam & Cambodia features local guides. Travelling and walking with us every day, they add enormously to the depth of our experience in this magical, complicated country. Also, we always work with the same guides. Meaning that, over the years, they ve become a bit like B&R family. Call us at the journey p.2 view > / notes from the road p.6 view > / the details p.7 view > / next steps p.8 view >

2 2 the journey Days 1 & 2 Siem Reap, Cambodia This morning, we bike into the heart of the Cambodian countryside to explore the local Khmer temples of presentday, giving us a great appreciation for the region before we delve into the ancient kingdom this afternoon. After an escape from the midday sun, we head into the magnificent temple of Angkor Wat, where our local guide describes this awe-inspiring temple that has defied time and nature for more than 700 years. At nightfall, we will head into town for a sunset cocktail and dinner at our favorite local restaurant. Today is dedicated to a deep exploration of the temples of Bayon with our local guide, who brings the stone celestial dancers to life for us. Bayon temple was constructed during the reign of King Jayavarman VII and marks the exact center of Angkor Thom, making it the most venerated of the city s temples. The structure is considered by most Angkor specialists to be one of the finest examples of classical Khmer architecture there is. Lunchtime offers an opportunity to explore the magnificent grounds of our hotel. This afternoon, the choice is yours: enjoy another bike ride through the Cambodia countryside, visit the lady temple of Banteay Srei, or discover Ton le Sap Lake on two wheels. Your guide will make suggestions for dinner tonight local cuisine or elegant cuisine, there are many excellent choices. Park Hyatt, Siem Reap The perfect combination of old-world charm, culinary splendour and modern-day luxury. Located in the heart of Siem Reap, this central oasis offers world-class facilities, the finest rooms, exquisite food and tranquil tropical gardens. It sits close by to the renowned 12th-century ruins of Angkor Wat. Day 1: A 20 km (12.5 mi.) ride through the Cambodian countryside. Day 2: A 28 km (17 mi.) ride through the Angkor Wat temple complex. More options are available for those who wish to bike in the afternoon.

3 3 Day 3 Phnom Penh On our final day in Siem Reap, we head out early to explore the wild jungle temple of Ta Prohm. Famous for the tropical forest that still surrounds it, this is an aweinspiring homage to both nature and mankind. We bike from here through the park, passing the temples of Bayon, Angkor Wat, the Elephant Terrace and the gates of Angkor Thom on our way back into town, where your guide will take you for a leisurely lunch. Afterward, it s time to bid farewell to Siem Reap with a short flight to Phnom Penh. Take a stroll around Wat Phnom this evening and tonight, your guide will lead you into town for a tasty dinner. Raffles Le Royal, Phnom Penh A sanctuary amidst the hubbub of Phnom Penh, the Raffles name is synonymous with unabashed luxury. Blending Khmer, French colonial and Art Deco designs, this landmark hotel has, since the 1920s, provided flawless service and superior accommodations. Indulge in an aromatic massage, dine on traditional French and Cambodian dishes, and rediscover the true meaning of tranquility. Day 3: An easygoing 17 km (11 mi.) bike ride. Days 4, 5 & 6 The Mekong River This morning after breakfast, we ll set out on a city tour by tuk-tuk, which includes a visit to the town s most important historical site; The notorious Tuol Sleng Museum. In 1975 Tuol Svay Prey High School was taken over by Pol Pot s security forces and turned into a prison known as Security Prison 21 (S-21) and it soon became the largest center of detention and torture in the country. The museum displays include room after room of these photographs of men, women and children covering the walls from floor to ceiling, later killed in the genocide. After lunch, we will give you the choice of either heading out to visit the Killing Fields or visiting some other sites in town like the fabulous Russian market and the Silver Pagoda. You will board the Aqua Mekong at 4pm and ascend onto the Observation Deck for sundowners against the Phnom Penh skyline. The boat sails at 7:30pm.

4 4 Today, we sail toward Tân Châu, a beautiful town by the Mekong River. We will take private sampans to the short for a marvelous tree-lined bike ride next to the canals. At the end of the ride we return to the Aqua and settle in for a light lunch and an escape from the midday heat. Then, this afternoon we are invited to a friend s home to taste fruit from the region and hear traditional folk songs performed by local villagers, followed by a unique unicorn dance. We will return to the Aqua Mekong for another fabulous dinner this evening, sharing photos and stories from the day, and celebrating the beauty of the Mekong. After breakfast, we ll begin this morning s excursion by boarding skiffs to Binh Thanh Island, where the villagers weave mats and baskets from Mekong River reeds and water hyacinths. At the village s simple temple, worshippers adhere to Hòa Hao Buddhism an indigenous practice founded in 1939 where emphasis is placed on modesty over ornate offerings. The bike riding along quiet, little country roads is some of the finest that B&R offers in Vietnam and shouldn t be missed! On our return skiff journey, we ll stop by one of the local fish farms to learn why these farmers drop their lines directly beneath their floating homes. In the afternoon, we ll continue our exploration of this area by bicycle for a closer glimpse of the daily life on the Mekong Delta. The people here rely on flat-bottom wooden boats called sampans to get around and transport goods to market. We climb aboard to paddle through the Cái Bè floating market, where more than 400 sampans gather every day, beginning at around 5 a.m. Each boat has one bamboo stick on the front to display that vendor s product, be it Vietnamese fish sauce, rice paper for wrapping dumplings, or colorful sweet confectionery. Finish the day with a cold sundowner back on board the Aqua Mekong, as you listen to the sound of crickets and bullfrogs composing their nightly orchestra. Aqua Mekong At 62.4 metres (205 feet) the Aqua Mekong was designed by Saigon based Noor Design and embodies the aesthetic of a sophisticated five star hotel. Local sustainable materials and artisanal touches of the Mekong s multifaceted cultures round out these generous interior spaces that welcome guests in the utmost comforts. Take in the spectacular views of the Mekong and life on the river from the luxury of the dip-pools on board. Day 5: A 27 km ride in the morning. An afternoon 4 km (2.5 mi.) walk or 17 km (10.5 mi.) bike ride. Day 6: A 32 km (20 mi.) ride in the morning and an afternoon 3 km (2 mi.) walk or 12 km (7.5 mi.) bike ride. Day 7 Ho Chi Minh City: Vietnam s Metropolis After breakfast we ll say goodbye to our Mekong Crew and disembark from the boat. En route to Saigon, we ll take our final Mekong-side bike ride. Then, arrive at Ho

5 5 Chi Minh mid-afternoon where our very own Vespa drivers will be waiting to whisk us through town in style. Bypassing the usual bumper-to-bumper traffic, we ll take part in a little scavenger hunt, pausing at city highlights such as the War Museum, Quan Âm Pagoda and Binh Tay Market. We ll also explore the streets surrounding the neighborhood of Cholon, the city s bustling and colorful Chinatown. A hot-spot for trading activities since the 17th century, Cholon is known for its Chinese delis, ancient quarters, old temples and pagodas. The area still boasts its original architecture and is home to many prestigious businessmen and dealers. After our tour, we ll return to the hotel to freshen up before dinner. Tonight, we ve secured a dinner reservation at one of the city s top restaurants. Park Hyatt, Saigon The luxurious Park Hyatt Saigon is conveniently located at Lam Son Square near the elegant Opera House in bustling central Ho Chi Minh City. The Hyatt s luxurious Xuan Spa offers relaxing and therapeutic massages with seven private treatment rooms, a well-equipped fitness studio and a large outdoor swimming pool nestled in a beautifully landscaped tropical garden. Day 7: A 30 km (19 mi.) bike ride; an exciting Vespa tour through town. Day 8 Ho Chi Minh City After a leisurely breakfast of Asian flavors, we will take you to the airport for your departure home or onward.

6 The Details 6 CHINA MYANMAR LAOS VIETNAM South China Sea THAILAND CAMBODIA VIETNAM South China Sea Siem Reap CAMBODIA Andaman Sea Phnom Penh Ho Chi Minh City MALAYSIA 2018 Price: From $10,495 ($1,950 single supplement) Single supplement is based on the most affordable rooms within B&R s allocation. Upgrades often available. * We will require your passport details at time of booking in order to secure your internal flights. Duration 8 days / 7 nights Please see our website for list of departures. Start Siem Reap, Cambodia Park Hyatt Siem Reap Morning Finish Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Park Hyatt Saigon Mid-morning the details TYPE Signature Hotels Hotels on our Signature trips are unique expressions of the region. Oftentimes that means they ve had a previous life as a monastery or a castle, but in every case it means they offer both an exceptionally comfortable stay and a taste of the region s culture. Best of all, we re friends with our hoteliers. (Translation? Preferential treatment for you.) WHAT S INCLUDED All hotel accommodation Meals as indicated with wine Services of B&R-trained local guide(s) Support vehicles during bike rides in Siem Reap Use of a customized bicycle and helmet. Detailed maps and water bottle All special events and private tours All transportation from rendezvous to dropoff LEVEL OF ACTIVITY Recreational This trip is rated Recreational. The longest ride is about 45 km (28 mi.). The biking is along flat roads, and the walking is on the paths through the temple complexes. MORE INFO How do I get to Siem Reap The airport in Siem Reap is small, easy to navigate and a mere 7 km (4mi.) from the city centre. Taxis are readily available at the airport or you can have a car arranged through your hotel. PARK HYATT, SIEM REAP The perfect combination of old-world charm, culinary splendour and modern-day luxury. Located in the heart of Siem Reap, this central oasis offers world-class facilities, the finest rooms, exquisite food and tranquil tropical gardens. It sits close by to the renowned 12thcentury ruins of Angkor Wat. An important note: You must obtain a physical Vietnamese visa in your passport before leaving home. Many visa companies offer a visa on arrival service, however, this is only valid at airports. Seeing as we will be crossing into Vietnam on the Mekong River, you need the actual visa in your passport in advance, If you have any further questions, contact your Travel Advisor. The itinerary information may vary slightly for your specific departure as we continuously research and develop each trip. Inclement weather may also necessitate minor alterations. Prices are per person and in USD Butterfield & Robinson Inc.

7 Your Next Steps 7 Weather: Siem Reap your next steps month high low Jan/Feb Mar/Apr May/Jun Jul/Aug Sep/Oct Nov/Dec At Butterfield & Robinson, the guiding starts while you re still at home. We make sure you know everything you need to know before you ve even left your living room. READY TO BOOK? Call or a Travel Advisor (or your travel agent) with any remaining questions, and to reserve your space / Reserve your flights to and from the region. Book your night before hotel. Make sure your passport is up to date. Enquire after travel insurance. Begin steps to secure a visa for Vietnam. B&R will take care of your visa for Cambodia. Once you are confirmed on a B&R trip, you will receive a Confirmation that links to tons of information to help you prepare for your trip. Then, about a month before you leave, we will send you a list of your fellow travellers, final rendezvous instructions and your hotel contact numbers. FIND US ON FACEBOOK Like B&R on Facebook and get the latest news and photos from the road, updates from guides and more. EXTENDING YOUR TRIP You may want to spend a few days in Hanoi it offers great shopping plus provides an easy starting point for a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay. STAY IN TOUCH! Sign up to receive The Slow Road our newsletter that is full of travel news, unique offers and B&R insider info. In the meantime, if you have any questions about your B&R experience big, small or downright quirky please call a Travel Advisor, or contact your travel professional. We are always happy to help. The itinerary information may vary slightly for your specific departure as we continuously research and develop each trip. Inclement weather may also necessitate minor alterations. Prices are per person and in USD Butterfield & Robinson Inc.