5 minute read
European Star-Ships
Escape to… Southeast Asia
Natural spectacles, ritualistic cultures and warm locals, sail the majestic Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia.
Everything about this cruise was excellent. The innovative balcony system transformed our suite into a private ‘ balcony where we could enjoy life on the Mekong River as we sailed along.
Emerald Cruises guest sailing on board Emerald Harmony, November 2019
Observe ancient traditions along the Mekong Delta
Along the Mekong Delta, a maze of tributaries venture seawards, giving life to many who call the riverbank home. Fascinating and captivating in equal measure, you’ll spot farmers in traditional attire getting to work in the emerald green rice paddies and cultivating their crops to sell on at fl oating markets. In Ben Tre, coconut trees dot the landscape and, in the village of Dat Dua, you’ll have the opportunity to learn how it’s made into candy, before attending an incredible fruit workshop. Explore the sleepy town of Sa Dec on a walking tour, with time to stop o at historic residences like the Chinese Congregational House. Revel in the opportunity to travel by traditional sampan, be entertained by some local folk singers at My An Hung village, witness a Hoa Hao Buddhist pagoda and tour a silk-weaving workshop, as quintessential Vietnam comes to life right in front of your eyes.
Dock right in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City
The inimitable buzz of this high-octane city comprises a wonderful mix of old and new. Towering, contemporary skyscrapers, ancient pagodas and colonial architecture represent the city’s commitment to moving forward, while remembering what came before. From your docking position in the heart of the city, you’ll explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, listening to incredible tales of survival as you navigate the intricate subterranean network created by Vietnamese troops during the war. Explore the city with a local expert, taking in sights like the twin-spired Notre Dame Cathedral, charming Saigon Central Post O ce and the Opera House. Walk the halls and explore the richly decorated rooms of Reunifi cation Palace, and enjoy plenty of time to explore independently, perhaps enjoying a drink on the bustling Pham Ngu Lao Street, trying delicious street food like banh mi and perusing the eclectic stalls of Ben Thanh Market.
Witness the unrivalled spectacle of Siem Reap
Siem Reap is eclectic in its attractions, enticing travellers with its small-town charm, unrivalled historic monuments and lively social scene. Perched on the shores of the Tonlé Sap, you’ll cruise past fl oating villages, alive with local activity, and wake early to witness the sun as it rises emphatically over the ethereal Angkor Wat temple complex. Enjoy an in-depth exploration of the last capital of the Khmer empire, Angkor Thom, where enigmatic faces have been carved into the stone, and gaze in awe at the Ta Prohm Temple where what remains of the stone structure has become entangled in the roots of enormous banyan, fi g and kapok trees. Of course, a visit to Siem Reap would be incomplete without a trip to the circus, where you can enjoy an evening of acrobatics, music and dance under the big red top.
Our custom-built Emerald Harmony
Sun & Pool Decks
Take a refreshing dip in the pool on warm days, before enjoying a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks from the bar. Sit back and relax in one of the comfortable chairs in these open-air spaces, or take shelter from the sun, as the river breeze invigorates you.
Horizon Bar & Lounge
Enjoy a regional or international beer, glass of wine, cocktail or mocktail in the Asian-inspired surrounds of the Horizon Bar & Lounge. Dark wooden interior and indigenous plants create an authentic environment. And, of course, delicious teas and co ees are always available.
Lotus Lounge
Specially designed for our Emerald Harmony Star-Ship, dark wooden tones and muted colours relax you as you sail. Enjoy snacks and a variety of speciality teas and co ee in our Lotus Lounge, as the endless horizons unfold in front of you.
Suites & Staterooms
Choice is a beautiful thing, which is why we o er a selection of four suite or stateroom grades on board our Emerald Harmony Star-Ship. Each stylish retreat boasting its own collection of features and inclusions.
Fitness & Wellness Areas
Treat yourself to a soothing massage or facial in our beautiful on board spa, where our experts are on-hand to make you feel great through a range of Asian-infl uenced therapy techniques. Treat yourself to a wash and blow dry in the hairdressers, and keep active in our well-equipped gym.
Refl ections Restaurant
From delicious breakfasts and Asian infl uenced lunches to decadent fi ve-course à la carte dining, the open-plan setting of Refl ections Restaurant is perfect for relaxed dining and socialising with fellow guests.