Discover nature’s diversity with this luxurious river cruise down the ancient Mekong River

TOUR LENGTH: 13 days

LOCATIONS: Vietnam & Cambodia

DEPARTURE DATE: Multiple departures

MEMBERS PRICING: $5,935 per person twin share

LEARN MORE: bit.ly/nst-mekong

As one of the world’s greatest river systems, the Mekong is as diverse as it is long. Patchwork quilts of verdant rice paddies nestle between dense jungles, and floating markets sprawl along shores dotted with wooden stilted villages where people welcome visitors with wide, warm smiles. The best way to experience the Mekong is a one-way cruise between two iconic cities. 

Your adventure begins in Seim Reap, Cambodia, with three glorious days to explore this vibrant city. From watching the sunrise over UNESCO listed Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious structure, to marvelling at the many other ancient temples scattered throughout the region, you’ll gain an insight into architectural masterpieces of the Khmer Empire from a millennium ago. Away from the temples embrace the Seim Reap way of life with a tuk tuk ride, or head to the quieter laneways of the countryside on a push bike or horse and carriage tour.

It’s hard to imagine living in a floating world, but for the millions of people along the Mekong Delta, water is their bloodline. The luxurious Mekong Serenity will be home for seven heavenly nights. You’ll encounter river life through the eyes of Cambodians, a unique opportunity not many get to experience. Explore the island of Koh Pen where the longest bamboo bridge in the world leads to a pretty stilted-housed village surrounded by sandalwood trees, neat rows of crops, and bursts of bright coloured bougainvillea. Angkor Ban is another traditional village where ancient customs are still observed, and don’t miss marvelling at the intricate process of silk weaving in Oknha Tey. Moving on to Cambodia’s bustling capital, Phnom Penh, excursions are tailored to different interests. History buffs will be drawn to the sombre reminder of the atrocities of the 1970s, at the infamous Killing Fields and Genocide Museum. For a truly Cambodian experience, join in a Buddhist blessing ceremony at a monastery, or take a tour through the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. 

Angkor Ban is another traditional village where ancient customs are still observed and don’t miss marvelling at the intricate process of silk weaving in Oknha Tey. 

As you venture into Vietnam, you’ll be welcome by the friendly locals of Tan Chau. Famed for superior quality silk, a visit to a silk-weaving workshop is a must. Or for something completely different, take a peek inside a rice wine room and step back in time on a visit to Evergreen Island. Picture-perfect Sa Dec is another idyllic Mekong Delta village. Wind through leafy canals lined with colonial buildings and bustling floating markets. Visit one of Vietnam’s most significant temples, Cao Dai, a creative colourful building where pilgrims flock each day, or relive the setting of the novel The Lover by French author, Marguerite Duras. Bidding farewell to the Mekong Serenity, enjoy the next two days in Ho Chi Minh City to round off your South East Asia sojourn. Delve into the chilling history of the Vietnam War at the Cu Chi Tunnels, take an excursion to Ba Ria—site of the Battle of Long Tan—or join locals for a morning Tai Chi session for a quiet reflection of your journey. 

Taking cruising in this part of the world to a new level, APT’s latest custom-built vessel is a beauty. With a maximum of 88 guests and 44 staff, there’s a sense of intimacy with all the trimmings of a larger vessel. Across the various cabin categories, all suites boast butler service and a private balcony to watch the world drift by. Interior spaces are a blend of contemporary design with accents of French style, a nod to bygone colonial times. The highlight of the outside sun deck is an oversized pool, perfect for a dip after a day of sightseeing. Dining options abound in three stylish restaurants. From light bites alfresco style by the pool, international and local cuisine in the main restaurant, and a fine dining experience featuring a Vietnamese degustation menu at Indochine, the focus is on authenticity and low food miles. This luxurious voyage is an unmissable way to experience the magic and mystery of Cambodia and Vietnam.

This article is featured in National Seniors Australia’s quarterly member magazine, Our Generation. 

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