Mekong River Archives

August 30, 2022September 6, 2022

Amazing GAdventures, Travel Deals and Asia Travel Tour Asia:

Everything, everywhere, all at once, all the time Sum up touring Asia in a paragraph? Good luck. Positively massive by just about every measure, the sole thread that unites this diverse continent is the sheer diversity of experiences it presents to travellers. Arid deserts and towering peaks; secluded temples and bustling markets; tiny villages and sprawling cities; ancient history and cutting-edge modernity; teeming crowds and places so remote you won’t find another human being around for miles—Asia encompasses all this and so, so, so much more. Don’t expect to absorb it all; dive on in and let it seep into your skin.

Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My): Cu Chi Tunnels

Step back in history as you explore tunnels dug up to 36 feet below the earth stretching all the way to Cambodia. Explore the tunnels, used by Viet Cong fighters during the Viet Minh fight and Vietnam War, which still display meeting rooms, kitchens, guerrilla tools, and weapons.

Halong Bay/Hanoi (Cai Lan): Halong Bay / Luon & Sung SOT Caves

Take a scenic boat ride along Halong Bay, the World Heritage Site, brimming with over 3,000 limestone Islands and islets contrasting against the emerald waters. You’ll have the opportunity to stop at islands along the way. But, don’t miss one of the most popular natural wonders, Thien Cung Grotto and Dau Go Cave, revealing beautiful stalactites.

Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur (Port Kelang): Batu Caves

Explore the sacred temple complex along the limestone hill brimming with statues, caves and long-tailed macaque monkeys. One of the most popular Hindu shrines outside of India, Batu Caves, draws thousands of visitors each year for the Hindu festival of Thaipusam.

Singapore

Singapore Zoo

A modern metropolis with a deep-rooted past, the city offers a vast array of exciting excursions, from beautiful botanical gardens to a river cruise. We suggest spending the day at the Singapore Zoo only because it’s considered one of the best in the world. Nestled in a rainforest environment, animals roam freely within “natural boundaries.”

Private Feng Shui Heritage Tour

Dive deep into the philosophy of Feng Sui with visits to a Hakka cemetery, a monastery, the Marina Bay Sands, and Orchard Road and discover how home elements can be used for harmony. Explore sites built around the yin- yang concept and the five elements of nature.

Thailand

Phuket: Phi Phi Island

Known for pristine beaches and breathtaking coastline, Phuket is home to Phi Phi Island. Spend the day swimming and snorkeling in the crystal waters, climbing the dynamic rock formations or relaxing on the splendid beaches. On the drive back you have the opportunity to visit the charming town of Phuket and a local monastery.

Bangkok: Grand Palace & Chao Phraya River cruise

Laem Chabang, the gateway to Bangkok exudes excitement. Visit the Grand Palace, the gem of the city, and former residence of the royal Siamese court. The most sacred temple in Thailand is not only an architectural masterpiece but boasts a beautiful emerald, Buddha. After, glide along the Chao Phraya river for a fantastic view of the picturesque shores and the mystical sights along the way. Find out why this charming town is dubbed “Venice of the East.”

Indonesia

Probolinggo: Mt. Bromo

Lush landscape and beautiful beaches infiltrate Indonesia. Be sure to visit the highlight of Probolinggo: Mt. Bromo. The active volcano is one of the most visited areas in East Java where you can discover the myths and legends surrounding the mountain.

Cambodia

Sihanoukville

If you’re in search of idyllic white sand beaches, this is your port. With its crystal waters, Sihanoukville is the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Don’t forget to stop by the nearby villages for fresh seafood.

August 12, 2022August 16, 2022

Five Reasons to Sail the New Emerald Harmony Along the Mekong River

If you’ve bucket listed the Mekong River, now is the time to make your dreams a reality. Emerald Waterways’ recently launched their brand new Star-Ship, Emerald Harmony and the groundbreaking vessel is sailing the Mekong River. If you need a little nudge, we are giving you five reasons to check off this bucket list destination on the Emerald Harmony.

Sail All The Way to Ho Chi Minh City

Unlike most ships plying the Mekong, the sleek and modern Emerald Harmony has been custom designed to cruise into the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, offering unique river access to this vibrant and historically significant Vietnamese city. The newly released time-lapse video of the Harmony build highlights the ship’s unique design and beautiful lines.

An Intimate Cruise Experience

A classic combination of authentic Asian style and modern amenities, Emerald Harmony accommodates just 84 guests in 42 cabins for an intimate cruise experience. With 40 crew members—and an excellent guest-to-crew ratio of almost 2:1—guests can expect personalized service and a warm environment onboard.

Two Countries, Endless Opportunities

The Emerald Harmony will sail the mighty Mekong between Vietnam and Cambodia, allowing guests to take in some of the continent’s most revered sights. From the vast Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia to the French Colonial architecture of Ho Chi Minh City, this sailing offers a glimpse at life from a local perspective and an in-depth look at traditional ways of living the people of the Mekong have enjoyed for over a thousand years.

Four Itineraries to Choose From

Options abound for travelers looking to experience the magic of the Mekong River. Those on a shorter timeline can book an eight-day sailing between Siem Reap, Cambodia and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam with daily excursions aimed at revealing the local culture and history. Those looking for a more in-depth experience can explore the 13-, 17- and 21-day cruise and land tours, which offer time in Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City as well as adding stops in Hanoi, Halong Bay and Hoi An, Vietnam.

Book Now and Save

The inaugural season is almost sold out, but guests who move fast can secure a stateroom. To celebrate the launch, Emerald Waterways is offering a free extension to Sapa or Luang Prabang on all 13-night itineraries, or two flights for the price of one on 17-21 night itineraries. Offer valid on any new Mekong sailings booked between August 9 and October 31, 2019.

In addition to the five reasons above, Emerald Waterways’ boasts an incredibly inclusive pricing plan. Cruise fares include all transfers; all port charges; all onboard (and some on-shore) meals; unlimited specialty tea and coffee, wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner; bottled water in the cabins replenished daily; continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats served in the top suites; complimentary Wi-Fi on board the ship; most shore excursions as well as all onboard and excursion gratuities.

June 16, 2017

Scenic Offers Free Flights From 25 U.S. Gateways for Guests Booking Mekong Sailings by July 31

It is never too early to plan a Mekong cruise and Scenic makes it easier with its announcement of free airfare for guests booking the 13-day Treasures of the Mekong cruises. Guests get to explore and learn about the amazing cultures and histories of the cities, towns and villages that reside along the banks of the 2,700-mile long, six-country river. The offer, encompassing 25 U.S. gateways for bookings made by July 31, 2017, is good the few remaining departures in 2017 and through April of 2018.

The 13-day all-inclusive itinerary, aboard the five-star, 68-guest Scenic Spirit, sails between Siem Reap, Cambodia home of the 12th-century Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The route includes guest experiences such as a traditional monk’s blessing, high tea at the landmark Raffles, private shadow dance puppet performances, and a magical themed gala dinner at an Angor Watt Temple with Apsara dancers – as well as views of floating canal villages, verdant paddy fields and picturesque islands. Multi-night stays in Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap offer both guided tours and free time to explore and enjoy a true sense of the magic of these ancient places.

To explore the exotic treasures of the Mekong, the year-old purpose-built ship, Scenic Spirit, named by Condé Nast Traveler as the most luxurious vessel on the Mekong, will provide an intimate boutique cruising experience with only 34 private balcony suites. The all-inclusive experience includes: private butler service, unlimited complimentary beverages, included gratuities, cultural entertainment and regional cuisine in customized settings: poolside to cabin, al fresco to fine dining, personal service with nearly 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio; elevator access to all service decks; on-board English-speaking guides for lectures and local insight; plus sleek swimming pool, fitness center, steam sauna, beauty salon, guest laundry, library and open-air cinema.