Treasures of Vietnam & Cambodia - October 2023 - Hostess Round Up - Joy Rixon

 A dream realised for many of the Sisters was to arrive via Tuk Tuks at the city of Angkor Thom, Siem Reap, Cambodia - the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire.

It was truly awe-inspiring to visit the Bayon Temple, 

The Terrace of the Elephants the Terrace of the Leper King and the unique Ta Prohm which has been left largely as it was found: overgrown by jungle trees and vines with many parts crumbling to the ground. This makes the 'Tomb Raider Temple' one of the most memorable of the Angkor temples for some. For many the Mystical Angkor Wat built during the early 12th century took our breath away. Construction is said to have taken around 30 years.

Angkor Wat symbolizes the soul of the Khmer people.

 

Exploring Siem Reap and a cooking class at Lum Orng was much enjoyed. Also a drive to the largest inland lake, Tonle' Sap for a boat ride was an adventure and fascinating seeing the fishing families' stilt houses.

 

Next onto Vietnam with stays and exploration in Hanoi, Lao Cai, Sapa, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Hue, Ho Chi Minh and the Mekong Delta.

 

Endless treasures to be seen and much to be learnt through the valuable knowledge passed on by our local specialist guides in each location.

 

A few of the many highlights according to the Sisters on the tour: the cyclo tour of bustling Hanoi's Old Quarter, The Temple of Literature, walking through remote villages in the hills near Sapa meeting people from the various ethnic tribes. Then aboard the beautiful Indochine cruise boat for a night on Halong Bay, a UNESCO Heritage site.

 

A longer break was had in HoiAn which is such an attractive town with colourful lanterns filling the streets every night creating a moody and romantic atmosphere.

Another great cookery experience at the Red Bridge Cookery School.  Needless to say, everyone enjoyed the healthy Vietnamese cuisine throughout our travels.

 

Ho Chi Minh City had much to see and enjoy, including shopping. A trip on a boat on the Mekong River, then on more primitive canoes travelling through Mangroves, followed by walking on hidden pathways revealing private homes, orchards and family businesses was fascinating.

 

Our group was made to feel welcome by the gentle and kind Vietnamese people we met along the way during our travels, including our knowledgeable guides, this was a true highlight also.  

 

Tour Oct 1 - 18   2023