EmeraldDISCOVERY

Mekong River

At 2,700 miles long, the majestic Mekong weaves through the spectacular natural landscapes of Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, China and Myanmar. This vast, life-supporting waterway is one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet.

“The whole trip met and, in many ways, exceeded our expectations. A beautiful, immaculate ship, big enough to be well equipped and spacious and not too crowded and impersonal. Our suite was contemporary, the food was consistently delicious with plenty of choice, and above all the staff on board were an absolute delight - efficient, helpful, warm, and friendly. The Tuk-Tuk ride in Phnom Penh was brilliant and the tour guides were fascinating and excellent at their jobs.”

Lesjan

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The Nine Dragon Delta

Beginning life in the Himalayas, countless tributaries break off and wind between Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam and Cambodia to form the enchanting Mekong Delta. Here, the Mekong River flows through Cambodia and Southern Vietnam, where it is known locally as Nine Dragon Delta, eventually emptying into the South China Sea.

At the confluence of the Mekong and Tonlé River sits the thriving Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh. The riverfront plays a vital role in the city, where a cultural hub of palm tree-lined boulevards gaze across the waters.

As the Mekong carves its way through Vietnam towards the sea, it flows to the east of another of Southeast Asia's great cities, Ho Chi Minh City. Here, another vital tributary, the Saigon river, weaves its way through the bustling streets of Vietnam's largest city, branching across channels, creeks and canals into the city's neighbourhoods.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Your Mekong voyage

Traverse the spectacular maze that is the Mekong Delta, where traditional life is unique and captivating. Nicknamed the Rice Bowl of Vietnam, the environmental conditions are perfect for cultivating fruit, vegetables and rice, forming the livelihood of millions who call the banks home.

Visit local villages, stop at historic residences, and immerse yourself in local life during perusals of bustling markets. Travel by remork (Tuk-Tuk) to learn about local arts, like that of scarf weaving, visit familyowned factories and observe truly spectacular places of worship.

Spend time in Phnom Penh, allowing you to experience the elaborate Royal Palace complex. Visit a local monastery and receive a traditional Buddhist Monk Blessing.

Highlights:

Each of our itineraries has been carefully designed to give you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

■ Ho Chi Minh City: Explore the French Quarter including the Old Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, Opera House and

Town Hall.

■ Sa Dec: The Chinese Congregational House, the home of Mr Huynh Thuy Le, who inspired Margaret Duras’ novel

L’Amant, and a walk through the Central Market.

■ Tan Chau: Evergreen Island, a unique and traditional Cao Dai temple and a Xe Loi ride.

■ The Killing Fields: Now a place of peace, pay your respects to the victims of the infamous Khmer Rouge.

■ The Silver Pagoda: Adjacent to the Royal Palace, the ‘Temple of the Emerald Buddha’ has a floor covered in silver.