Welcome to Southeast Asia

Across the rugged uplands, open plateaus, and decisive waterways of Southeast Asia, you’ll uncover a region of rich diversity. An amalgamation of culture is observable across Southeast Asia’s breathtaking traditional architecture, dizzying cityscapes, and vibrant tropical beauty.

Halong Bay

An unmissable exhibit of nature’s power: in Halong Bay, thousands of limestone islets rise from the turquoise brilliance of the Gulf of Tonkin, forming a unique seascape. While here, you’ll explore sea-weathered caves carved deep from within the limestone karsts—Trinh Nu forms the basis of local legend, while Sung Sot; is adorned with striking stalactites and stalagmites. Meet the locals of the ancient floating village of Cua Van, kayak to Ho Ba Ham lake, and observe the spectacular local wildlife. The forested crags provide ideal shelter for amphibians and reptiles, while the resident black kite can, at times, be found encircling the skies in search of the teeming shoals below.

Hoi An

Peel back the layers of the ancient coastal town of Hoi An, and the exceptionally well-preserved architecture reveals a long history of Chinese, Japanese, and European influence. Once a trading port of great import, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town presents one of the finest examples of timber frame buildings of the 18th century.

Enjoy plenty of time to explore the city at your own pace, visiting the stunning Ang Bang Beach by cyclo (bicycle-style rickshaw) and the Reaching Out Project—an NGO created to help improve the quality of life of the city’s locals.

Siem Reap

Siem Reap will forever be associated with centuriesspanning remains of the former Khmer capital, Angkor. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Angkor Archaeological Park is home to famed temple complexes, including Angkor Thom, Bayon, and the near-mythical Angkor Wat, the architectural delight at the heart of both Khmer identity and the nation’s flag. To observe the first golden touch of dawn upon the ornamented stone spires; is to regard one of the world’s greatest spectacles, a typically Southeast Asian synthesis of the man-made and the natural.

Beyond the ancient architecture and into the lanternglow of the streets, you’ll uncover an elegant and stylish city. A thriving spa town with a happening artistic scene, Siem Reap boasts cultural delights such as the beloved Phare, the Cambodian Circus, an unforgettable evening of traditional performance.

Our Vietnam, Cambodia & Mekong river cruising itineraries

To help with your decision on which of our four insightful itineraries to choose, the below table highlights the destinations you will visit across each of our itineraries. Selected departure dates can be enjoyed traveling in the opposite direction on board Emerald Harmony, and also for some parts of the land touring program.