Tracking the Mekong is the best way to let the real magic and intrigue of Vietnam and Cambodia reveal itself.
To cater for the growing interest in this type of immersive luxury adventure, Scenic has expanded its program for late 2018 and early 2019.
Like every Scenic itinerary, the newest cruise and tour package is filled with enriching experiences.
Your journey begins in southern Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh. With its vibrant life-style, scenic lakes and parks, historic temples and wartime landmarks, Ho Chi Minh is a rich starting point for this journey along the Mekong.
After the Vietnam War, the city was rebuilt but preserved its culture and heritage.
It’s here you’ll meet your guide who will escort you to the luxury river cruising vessel, Scenic Spirit. Once you’re settle in, you’ll enjoy a welcome dinner to kick-off your exciting 11-day adventure along the Mekong.
Over seven luxurious nights, Scenic Spirit makes its way up the mighty Mekong River.
On board, suites feature a spacious bedroom with separate living area. And with a guest to staff ratio of almost 1:1, you know you’ll be looked after.
In Siem Reap, you’ll farewell Spirit to transfer to a hotel for the last three nights of the tour. It is from here, you’ll begin your journey to the amazing, Angkor Wat.
This magnificent 12th century World Heritage-listed temple site is where you can enjoy a Scenic Enrich event, a magical themed gala dinner at Kravan Temple with Apsara dancers.
Destinations
- Cai Be
- Sa Dec
- Tan Chau
- Phnom Penh
- Oudong
- Kampong Tralach
- Kho Chen
- Wat Hanchey
- Kampong Cham
- Siem Reap
- Angkor Wat
Freechoice options
In Sa Dec, board a sampan to visit the famous Cai Be floating market before discovering local artisans at work and also French colonial and traditional Vietnamese houses.
Alternatively, opt for a later start before enjoying morning tea at the French colonial Le Longanier House featuring local musicians and cultural demonstrations.
Stay in Tan Chau to visit Evergreen Island and enjoy a ride in a Xe Loi to the local Cao Dai Temple. Or, choose from two options which cruise by speedboat to Chau Doc. Firstly visit a family-operated fish farm before walking through a Cham village or visit Tra Su Bird Sanctuary.
In Phnom Penh, journey to the Killing Fields and tour Tuol Sleng, the former school that was converted to the Khmer Rouge’s main prison.
You could also take a guided tour of the local food market before joining a hands-on Khmer cooking demonstration.
Alternatively, by tuk tuk, explore Phnom Penh’s colonial buildings, the Central Market as well as its modern architecture before stopping for lunch at a local NGO restaurant that teaches street kids hospitality skills.
In Kampong Cham, learn about the history of the area with a visit to Phnom Pros (Man Hill) and then Wat Nokor, an 11th century temple that has a modern pagoda built within. Or you could explore the ecotourism village of Cheung Kok or spend your time wandering through the township of Kampong Cham.
Discover Banteay Srei in Angkor Wat and visit the Landmine Museum or explore Beng Mealea temples and Artisans D’Angkor.
Alternatively, cruise on Tonle Sap or take a tethered balloon ride over Angkor Wat before visiting a Pouk Silk Farm and Preah Khan Temple. For the more adventurous, enjoy a vintage Vespa ride.
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Enrich activities included
Arrive in style by tuk tuk and immerse yourself in the Raffles, Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh.
Enjoy a guided history tour followed by an indulgent high tea prepared in front of you by the hotel’s chefs all while sipping your signature cocktail named in honour of Jacqueline Kennedy. Retire to the Elephant Bar before returning to the ship.
Receive a blessing in Kampong Tralach in a pagoda and drive a short distance to Prek K’dam to re-board Scenic Spirit.
Later, sail downstream to wander through the silversmith village of Kho Chen before continuing your cruise to Kampong Cham.
When you arrive into Siam Reap, take your A Reserve seat at the colourful Cambodian Circus, Phare.
On day two, marvel at sunrise over the magnificent Angkor Wat before moving to a special location for a champagne breakfast with food prepared by a local NGO supported bakery school.
At Angkor Wat, you’ll be wowed by a magical themed gala dinner at an Angkor temple with included drinks and a show featuring captivating Apsara dancers in front of candle-lit temple ruins. A truly memorable end to your journey.
About Scenic Spirit
Purpose-built in 2016 for the Mekong River, this 5-star floating hotel is designed to impress with its unrivalled amenities and cutting-edge features including a sleek pool, steam sauna, bar and open-air cinema.
Introducing a new world to river cruising in Asia, the elegantly-appointed Scenic Spirit combines tradition with innovation.
As with all Scenic river cruises, Scenic Spirit pricing is all-inclusive. Wi-Fi, gratuities, all meals, beverages including top-shelf spirits and cocktails and bottled water on shore excursions are all included.
Scenic Spirit suites
There are three room types on offer.
Royal Panorama Suite
At 80m², this is the largest suite on the Mekong River. Being up forward on the Diamond Deck, enjoy fantastic views of the passing scenery from your private terrace with outdoor Jacuzzi and day bed. Both Suites have a separate lounge and dining area, walk-in dressing room and a luxurious oversized bathroom offering a separate bathtub, toilet and shower.
Grand Deluxe Suite
These eight suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury at 40m² with more space, impeccable service and thoughtful touches. Enjoy an outdoor balcony, separate lounge and dining area, extra-large walk in wardrobe and a luxurious oversized bathroom.
Deluxe Suite
These spacious Suites at 32m² are located on the Jewel, Sapphire and Diamond Decks. Each have a private full-length balcony, walk in wardrobe and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin with a separate toilet and shower.
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