Download - 2017 CRUISE COMPANION Timeless Wonders of Vietnam ...€¦ · Passports: All Uniworld river cruise/tours require a passport. In most cases, passports must be valid for six (6) months

2 0 1 7 C R U I S E C O M PA N I O N

Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia

& the Mekong

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Icon/Letter Code Legend

The symbols below will help guide you through the

descriptions of the daily itineraries. They will give you

an idea of the length and pace of the excursions, and

they will note which meals are provided.

Uniworld Signature Icons

u UNESCO Site b Motorcoach

d Flight S Boat

a Additional Cost e Embark/Disembark

Dining Letter Codes

CB Continental Breakfast BB Buffet Breakfast

L Lunch D Dinner

WD Welcome Gala Dinner FD Farewell Gala Dinner

Tour Duration Icons

5 1/4 Day 7 1/2 Day

9 3/4 Day 8 Full Day

Shore Excursion IconsAll tours involve walking unless strictly noted as a

panoramic tour. In many cases, the walking takes place

over uneven ground, cobblestones or flagstone walkways,

and several tours involve stairs or short uphill climbs.

Please wear comfortable, non-skid walking shoes while

on all tours. These symbols give an idea of what to

expect on each program.

1 Easy walking

Includes walking of 15 minutes or less from multiple

motorcoach stops to and around historical sites.

Possibly some steps, or gentle uphill and downhill walks.

2 Intermediate walking

Includes walks of up to two hours on uneven terrain.

Limited seating at sites. Multiple stairs and/or uphill/

downhill walking.

3 Strenuous walking

Involves walking at all sites. Many stairs and uphill/

downhill passages. Those with physical limitations

and those who may need private arrangements should

contact the Cruise/Tour Manager when onboard.

W E L C O M E

Our World Begins with YouThank you for selecting Uniworld Boutique River Cruise

Collection. We want to do everything we can to ensure

you have the most enjoyable and worry-free vacation.

With that in mind, we have prepared this booklet for

you, so you can plan your trip with the greatest of ease.

Consider it a guideline to help you get ready for your

upcoming trip. It contains valuable tips and advice

on what to pack, your flight and transfer experience,

onboard information, day-to-day details and much more.

We highly look forward to hosting you onboard our

beautifully appointed ships and making your vacation

the most memorable and enjoyable experience possible.

Sincerely,

The Uniworld Team

Cover: Monk in Bayon Temple, Siem Reap, Cambodia ▲ Hanoi, Vietnam

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C R U I S E / T O U R C O M PA N I O N

Helpful Hints Before You Go

4 Travel Documents Passports

Visa Requirements

Passenger Information Form

Travel Protection Plan

6 Cruise/Tour Documentation Final Documentation Includes

6 Baggage Limitations

7 Vaccinations

7 Travel Essentials

8 Health and Mobility Physical Limitations

Medical

Special Diets

9 General Money Matters

Getting There

10 Airport Security and Check-In

10 Transfers Airport Arrival Transfers

Airport Departure Transfers

Late Flight Arrivals and Missed Flights

Additional Contacts in Case of a Late Arrival

Baggage Delays

13 Pre- or Post-Cruise/Tour Land Stay or Optional Extensions

13 Hotel Check-In and Hotel Check-Out

About Your Uniworld Cruise/Tour Package and Onboard and Onshore Services

14 Crew-Only Areas

14 Dining

14 Electrical Current

14 Elevators

15 Emergency Procedures

15 Excursions

15 Fitness Centers

15 Footwear

15 Gift Shops

15 Going Ashore

16 Gratuities

16 Handicapped Facilities

16 Insect Precautions

17 Internet Access

17 Intra-Asia Domestic Air Ticket

17 Land Tours and Shore Excursions

17 Laundry

17 Massage

17 Mooring and Docking Facilities

17 Moving about the Ship

18 Muster Station

18 Responsibility and Waiver

18 Safety Deposit Box

18 Security

19 Ship’s Office

19 Shopping

19 Smoking

19 Suite Amenities

19 Visitors

20 Water

20 Weather

21 What to Wear

21 Omissions

22 Frequently Asked Questions

2 0 1 7 R I V E R C R U I S E / TO U R P R O G R A M

Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong

25 Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi / 15 Days

39 Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City / 15 Days

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For entry to Cambodia, our Cruise/Tour Manager will

take care of obtaining Cambodian visas for each guest

on the cruise/tour. Each guest will need to provide

the Cruise/Tour Manager with his or her passport, one

(1) passport photo and $50 US dollars (USD) in cash,

per person, while on the cruise/tour for this purpose.

The Cruise/Tour Manager will then submit all passports

to the Cambodian Immigration Authorities and obtain

the visas. For southbound Mekong cruises, this will be

done at the Siem Reap Airport. For northbound Mekong

cruises, this will be done onboard the Mekong Navigator prior to entering Cambodia.

Any visa(s) or other documentation required for a

particular itinerary is solely the responsibility of the

guest. As a courtesy, our website, uniworld.com, offers

a link to a visa service company in the “Already Booked”

section; this company can provide additional information.

Obtaining and carrying required documents is solely your

responsibility. Uniworld will not be responsible for advising

and/or obtaining required travel documentation for any

passenger, or for any delays, damages and/or losses,

including missed portions of your trip, related to improper

or absent travel documentation. Due to government-

imposed security immigration measures, passport infor-

mation and emergency contact information are required

for all passengers prior to release of documentation.

Passenger Information Form: By now, you should have

completed the Uniworld Passenger Information Form.

The information on this form is used to comply with

certain foreign government and airline security restrictions

in advance of your arrival. If you have completed this

form, we thank you for your prompt attention. If you

have not completed this form, please visit our website

at uniworld.com and complete the online Passenger

Information Form in the “Already Booked” section. Each

guest must complete the form.

Please note that the name on your airline tickets must

match your name exactly as it is shown in your passport.

This applies to both international flights as well as the

flight between Vietnam and Cambodia (or vice versa)

that we will book for you, so please be sure we have your

name correct on your booking.

Travel Protection Plan: Uniworld strongly recommends

that each guest purchase a Travel Protection Plan. Please

carry all policy information with you during the course of

your trip.

During the cruise/tour, it is advisable to have copies of

important documents (i.e., first page of your passport,

photo, credit card numbers and bank/credit card

company phone numbers) in a separate packet, in case

the originals are lost or stolen.

Helpful Hints Before You Go

Travel DocumentsPassports: All Uniworld river cruise/tours require a

passport. In most cases, passports must be valid for six

(6) months after the scheduled return date from the

trip. Travel to Vietnam and Cambodia will require visas.

Each guest is fully responsible for obtaining and carrying

the travel documents necessary for his or her travel

itinerary, with the exception of Cambodian visas.

Uniworld will not be responsible for any delays, damages

and/or losses (including missed portions of your trip)

related to improper or absent travel documents.

Visa Requirements: For US and Canadian citizens,

a multiple-entry visa is required for entry to Vietnam.

A visa is not required for entry to Thailand for US and

Canadian citizens.

Non-US or non-Canadian citizens must contact the

appropriate consular office for entry requirements

pertaining to their particular trip.

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Cruise/Tour DocumentationUniworld sends all final cruise and air documents

between 21 and 30 days prior to your trip departure,

provided that Uniworld has received a completed and

signed Passenger Information Form and your booking

is paid in full. All documents are sent via a priority mail

delivery service such as UPS or FedEx.

Final Documentation Includes:

▶ Cruise/Tour Ticket

▶ Passenger Ticket Contract (which is legally binding

between Uniworld and each guest)

▶ Airline Tickets or E-Ticket Confirmation (if international

air ticket was purchased from Uniworld)

▶ Cruise/Tour Companion

▶ Baggage Tags

▶ Leave-Behind Communication Card

▶ Travel Protection Plan Pamphlet (if Uniworld travel

protection was purchased)

▶ Pre- or Post-Cruise/Tour Optional Extension

Information (if optional extensions were purchased)

Baggage LimitationsAirline baggage restrictions change frequently, and each

guest needs to check with his or her specific air carrier

for limitations concerning baggage weight, baggage size,

carry-on regulations, and excess or overweight baggage

charges. This information can be found on the carrier’s

website or on Uniworld’s website at uniworld.com/

baggage. Remember to check for both international

(over the water) and intracontinental regulations since

limitations differ depending on flight routings.

Overweight or excess baggage charges vary, and guests

who exceed an airline’s recommended limits may be

asked to pay fees ranging from $25 to $80 USD, or

possibly more, per infraction.

For intra-Vietnam and intra-Asia flights, only one (1)

suitcase per person can be checked, and it must weigh

no more than 44 pounds (20 kilograms) total per person

(not per bag). Each checked bag should have dimensions

not exceeding 62 linear inches (157 centimeters). You may

be asked by the airline to pay fees of approximately $2.50,

$5 or more (USD) per pound (0.45 kilograms) in excess

of this weight limit. One (1) carry-on is allowed per

person. Your carry-on should not exceed 17” x 14” x 8”

(43 centimeters x 35 centimeters x 20 centimeters) and

should not weigh more than 15 pounds (7 kilograms).

There are no restrictions concerning the number of bags

each person can bring with him or her onboard the ship.

However, baggage storage space onboard is limited.

Guests are encouraged to limit their baggage to one (1)

piece per person for their own comfort and, in cases of

pre- or post-cruise/tour stays, for their own convenience.

Keep an eye on your baggage and all personal

belongings—they are solely your responsibility

throughout the trip. Uniworld is not responsible for lost,

stolen, or damaged baggage and personal belongings. A

Travel Protection Plan covering lost, stolen or damaged

baggage is highly recommended.

VaccinationsAll guests should direct questions about vaccinations to

their personal physician.

As an additional resource, guests may consult the

current recommendations of the Centers for Disease

Control (CDC). The CDC website is cdc.gov and the

phone number is 1-800-232-4636.

You may also contact the consulates of the countries to

be visited to determine vaccination requirements.

Travel EssentialsThe following items are essential for any destination:

walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, an umbrella,

and a lightweight raincoat or outerwear garment

appropriate for the seasonal weather conditions. It is

recommended that you bring duplicates of prescription

eyewear, copies of prescriptions for any medications,

copies of credit card information, and copies of your

passport information pages and visas. Make sure that

your baggage has identification tags both inside and

outside, with your contact information and address

clearly marked. Do not pack valuables or important

medication in your checked baggage unless required to

do so by the airline; these should be carried with you in

your carry-on baggage. Please contact your air carrier

for any additional regulations.

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Health and MobilityPhysical Limitations: Uniworld trips are exciting,

relatively active vacations. While there will be plenty

of time to relax, there will also be much to see and do.

Your included excursions generally require an extensive

amount of walking, as well as the navigation of numerous

steps and uneven terrain. During shore excursions,

guests with physical limitations will find access to sites

generally restricted. For your safety and enjoyment, we

recommend that all guests be in good physical condition.

In addition, river ships, while spacious and comfortable,

are not in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities

Act and do not have elevators. Uniworld, at its sole

discretion, reserves the right to refuse passage or to

require a current passenger to end his or her trip if the

passenger’s state of health or physical condition may

affect his or her own health, safety and enjoyment, or that

of other passengers. The use of mobility devices such as

wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, etc. is not recommended

for travel in Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand, and such

devices cannot be readily obtained in the region.

Medical: Most of the hotels used in Vietnam and

Cambodia will be near a clinic staffed by a doctor, but

Uniworld does not employ staff nurses or doctors

onboard its ships. Medical expenses are the guest’s own

responsibility. Guests should bring their medications with

them. Uniworld is not responsible for any costs incurred

as a result of medical service or for the quality of medical

care received. A Travel Protection Plan covering medical

expenses is highly recommended.

Special Diets: Please advise us of any special dietary

restrictions in advance of your departure. This information

will be provided to the proper personnel. To the extent

possible, and in consideration of local conditions, every

effort will be made to accommodate your needs. It is the

guest’s responsibility to provide us with as much detail

as necessary concerning any medically related dietary

concerns. Not all dietary requests can be accommodated,

and we appreciate your understanding in this matter.

Dietary restrictions should be reiterated to the service

staff at the time of placing orders in restaurants.

General Money MattersCurrency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (VDN).

Please note that ATMs do not supply US dollars in

Vietnam. In Cambodia the US dollar is widely accepted,

as is the Cambodian riel. ATMs in Cambodia supply

both currencies. Thailand’s currency is the baht. Please

note that crisp, new, untorn bills are necessary for

paying in cash and/or exchanging currencies.

Uniworld features a “cashless” environment onboard, and

all charges are billed directly to each guest’s onboard

account. Currency accepted onboard for settlement of

final bills is the US dollar. The major credit cards

accepted are Visa and MasterCard, and these will incur

extra bank charges for transactions, which will be your

responsibility. Credit cards will be charged in US dollars.

Please contact your bank and/or credit card companies

to let them know that you will be leaving the country to

avoid any problems using your credit card(s) overseas. It

is not advisable to bring Travelers Checks.

The ship does not have ATMs onboard, but ATMs linked to

major bank networks can be found throughout Vietnam,

Cambodia and Thailand. Most debit and major credit

cards can be used for cash withdrawals ashore. Your bank

can tell you which network your ATM card can access and

whether a debit or credit card must be used. Make sure

you have the correct PIN for the card you plan to use

before leaving home, as the PIN is required for all money

withdrawals. It is also recommended that you bring an

overseas contact number for your bank or credit card

company in case you require assistance while traveling.

Limited currency exchange is available onboard for the

exchange of cash only. Credit cards cannot be accepted

for money exchange. Most hotels and major tourist sites

have exchange facilities. Please note currency exchange

transactions and ATM cash withdrawals always involve

transaction fees. It is always best to inquire as to the fee

before exchanging any money. ATMs will typically ask

you if you accept the fee before enabling the transaction.

Most major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American

Express) are accepted worldwide. There may be some

stores or locations where cash is preferred or where a

particular credit card cannot be used for purchases. We

recommend bringing at least one major credit card, as

well as an ATM card that is both a debit and credit card.

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Getting There

Airport Security and Check-InIt is advisable to contact the airline in advance of your

departure to verify that there have been no changes

to the flight number or schedule found on your travel

documents. After your travel documents are issued and

sent to you, Uniworld is not responsible for notifying

guests of any changes in flight schedules.

Please make sure you arrive at the airport at least two

and a half (2.5) hours prior to your scheduled departure

to complete check-in and security procedures. For peak

travel times, you may even want to arrive three (3) hours

prior to your scheduled departure time.

TransfersAirport Arrival Transfers: If your cruise/tour package

includes a group arrival transfer (and your flights

coincide with our transfer guidelines and have been

communicated to Uniworld), you will be greeted by a

Uniworld representative and transferred to the hotel.

You will be met as you exit the airport’s secure customs

area. Please claim all of your baggage before exiting

the baggage claim area. From the airport, you’ll be

transferred to the hotel. Please note that transfers are

nonrefundable.

There may be a waiting period of up to one (1) hour for

scheduled airport transfers, depending on groupings

of flight arrivals. Upon clearing customs in the cruise/

tour start city, look for the Uniworld representative

outside the secure customs area. If you cannot find the

representative, please remain outside the customs area

until the representative comes to you. Uniworld will

not be responsible for late arrivals or missed transfers

due to delayed, changed, canceled or missed flights;

for missed cruise/trip days; or for extra costs resulting

from delayed, changed, canceled or missed flights.

Flight information and pre-trip arrangements for all

guests making their own flight arrangements must

be given to Uniworld no later than 45 days prior to

departure in order for transfers to be properly arranged.

Your flight arrangements must also be made in

accordance with Uniworld’s recommended transfer

guidelines. For complete details, please see the “Terms

and Conditions” section of our current brochure or our

website, uniworld.com.

Guests who have purchased an optional pre-cruise/tour

extension or extra hotel nights with Uniworld will be

provided transfers as part of the extension or extra

nights purchase.

If your cruise/tour package does not include arrival

transfers (i.e., for flights outside of Uniworld’s

recommended transfer time guidelines or if flight details

have not been communicated to Uniworld in time),

please make your own way to the hotel as per your trip

itinerary; transportation will be at your own expense.

Airport Departure Transfers: If your cruise/tour package

includes a group departure transfer (and your flights

coincide with our transfer guidelines and have been

communicated to Uniworld) or if you have purchased a

private departure transfer, you will be transferred to the

airport for your flight home.

In accordance with Uniworld’s recommended transfer

time guidelines, all guests making their own flight

arrangements are required to provide Uniworld with their

flight information and post-trip arrangements no later

than 45 days prior to departure in order to receive

transfers. For complete details, please see the “Terms

and Conditions” section of our current brochure or our

website, uniworld.com.

Guests who have purchased an optional post-cruise/tour

extension or extra nights with Uniworld hotel stays will

be provided transfers as part of the extension or extra

nights purchase.

If your cruise/tour package does not include departure

transfers (i.e., for flights outside of Uniworld’s

recommended transfer time guidelines or if flight details

have not been communicated to Uniworld in time), you

must schedule transportation from the hotel at your

own expense.

Late Flight Arrivals and Missed Flights: If your package

includes an arrival transfer and you experience a travel

delay of any kind while you are still within North America,

please contact Uniworld by calling 1-800-733-7820 and

advise them of the situation. They will do their best

to ensure that you are met and transferred upon your

revised arrival. If you are outside North America when

you experience the travel delay, please contact

+855 968 605 329 for advice and assistance.

Upon clearing customs in the cruise/tour start city, look

for the Uniworld representative outside the customs

area. If you cannot find the representative, please remain

outside the customs area until the representative

appears. Depending on the nature of the delay, our

ground staff can, at times, track flight changes. However,

if your flight arrangements were drastically altered, it is

unlikely that the ground staff will be notified in time of

your specific flight changes. Due to security protocols

enacted after September 11, 2001, airlines very rarely

provide updated flight information to third parties.

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If you cannot find the Uniworld representative, please

contact the transfer representative in your arrival city.

Their contact information is shown in the transfer section

of your Cruise/Tour Ticket. If unable to match you up with

a scheduled group transfer, the transfer representative

will ask you to make your way to the hotel at your own

expense. Costs incurred due to missed transfers are the

responsibility of the guest; in most cases, compensation

can be obtained from your Travel Protection Plan provider

or airline carrier. If any transfers are missed, guests

should take the green and white taxis approved by the

Vietnamese Department of Transportation (also called the

Ministry of Transport). Keep in mind that drivers may not

speak English. If not, guests should write down the name

of the hotel clearly and hand the note to the driver. The

same policy applies to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

If your delay is serious enough that you miss the starting

point of your cruise/tour, please contact our Local

Representative, using the number on your Cruise/Tour

Ticket to determine the exact location of your tour group

on your revised date of arrival. The office personnel will

advise you on the best course of action. Uniworld is not

responsible for missed transfers or additional costs due

to missed or delayed flights.

Additional Contacts in Case of a Late Arrival:

Mekong Navigator

Ship’s Cambodian Phone:

+855 968 605 329

Ship’s Vietnamese Phone:

+84 903 888 304

Land Program

Cambodia:

+855 12 506 222

Vietnam:

+84 973 068 181

Baggage Delays: Baggage delays do unfortunately occur

from time to time, especially during peak travel periods.

First and foremost, do not leave the baggage area

without completing a Lost Baggage Report with your air

carrier. This report is essential to the tracking of your

claim. If traveling with a companion, we recommend one

(1) person exit the baggage claim area and locate the

transfer representative to inform him or her of the

situation. This will allow the representative to ensure that

transfers are properly provided. Give the air carrier a copy

of your travel itinerary and the hotel and ship’s contact

information. Report your lost baggage to the Uniworld

representative and provide him or her with a copy of

your Lost Baggage Report. This will assist our staff in

helping to locate your baggage as quickly as possible.

Uniworld is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged

baggage and/or personal belongings. A protection plan

covering lost, stolen or damaged baggage is available

through the Uniworld Travel Protection Plan.

Pre- or Post-Cruise/Tour Land Stay or Optional ExtensionsAll Uniworld land programs are fully hosted and include

daily breakfast, transfers and porterage. Most feature at

least one (1) special sightseeing program. Your Cruise/

Tour Manager or on-site Uniworld representative will host

a welcome briefing upon your arrival to familiarize you

with the scheduled program and to provide additional

information about optional excursions, dining

recommendations and shopping tips. Details about your

pre- or post-cruise/tour land stay are included in this

booklet and details about your pre- or post-cruise/tour

optional extensions are included with final documents.

Hotel Check-In and Hotel Check-OutPlease note that every effort is made to ensure that your

hotel room is available and ready for occupancy upon

your arrival at the hotel. This is not always possible due

to differences in hotel check-in times and scheduled

airport-to-hotel transfers. A short wait for your room to

become available may be unavoidable.

Most hotels do not allow check-in earlier than 2:00 pm. If

you arrive at the hotel before 2:00 pm, you may need to

wait until the room becomes available. Hotel check-out

must be no later than 12:00 pm. If your arrival or

departure schedule does not coincide with these times,

you may ask the hotel to store your baggage while you

explore independently.

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About Your Uniworld Cruise/Tour Package and Onboard and Onshore Services

Crew-Only AreasSome areas are clearly indicated as “Crew Only.” We ask

you to respect these areas, as the crew may be working

there and your safety cannot be guaranteed. These areas

include the Main Deck bow area, the galley, engine

rooms, crew accommodation and the gangways aft of

the Sun Deck. Crew members have been instructed to

escort any unauthorized persons from these areas and

make a report to the Captain.

DiningAll breakfasts on land and onboard are American-style

buffets. Most other included meals onshore will be held

at local restaurants. Lunch onboard offers a selection of

fresh salads, daily soups and entrées. Dinner onboard is

seated. Please notify Uniworld in advance if you have any

special dietary concerns or considerations that need to

be taken into account while traveling with us. We will do

our best to ensure that your request is accommodated,

but we cannot guarantee that this will happen in all cases.

During meals held ashore, guests will be able to enjoy

complimentary beverages: For lunch, guests may choose

to have water, coffee, hot tea or soft drinks; for dinner,

guests may also choose from a selection of house wine

and local beer.

During onboard dinners, complimentary red and white

house wine, locally produced spirits, ice water, iced tea,

beer, soft drinks, coffee and hot tea will be included.

Complimentary select domestic spirits are available

throughout the day at the bar located on the Sun Deck

of the ship (excluding premium spirits and premium

wines, which are available for purchase).

Electrical CurrentVoltage is 220V/50Hz in all hotels and onboard the ship.

On the ship, outlets that accommodate both 110V and

220V appliances are available in the staterooms and

suites. In the hotels, dual-voltage appliances or a voltage

converter will be needed. In addition, you will need a

two-round-pin-type plug adaptor in Cambodia, and a

three-flat-pin-type plug adaptor in Vietnam.

ElevatorsThe ship does not have an elevator. All the hotels

have elevators.

Emergency ProceduresThe ship is outfitted with modern smoke detectors,

fire alarms, extinguishers and hoses. Alarms are situated

at regular intervals along the Promenade Deck. An

individual emergency alarm button is situated in each

stateroom and suite. Fire extinguishers are located at

regular intervals around the Promenade Deck and

outside all public rooms.

ExcursionsGroup shore excursions are organized by the Cruise/Tour

Manager and are accompanied by a member of the

ship’s staff. Details about group shore excursions are

posted on the Daily Schedule, and passengers are

requested to note this before disembarkation. When

disembarking, passengers should hang their keys on the

key board found adjacent to the dining room so that we

know if anyone has left the ship and not returned. If you

go ashore with your stateroom or suite keys and we

leave without you, we cannot be held responsible.

Fitness CentersThere are fitness centers in all hotels, with the exception

of the Victoria Angkor Resort and Spa. There is no

fitness center onboard the ship.

FootwearSlippers are provided for your comfort onboard the

vessel. When ashore, guests should wear comfortable—

but safe—walking shoes. At certain times, the river banks

and paths we use can be muddy and therefore slippery.

Due to the possibility of muddy—or, conversely, very

dusty—walking conditions, we ask you to remove your

footwear when returning onboard so that we can clean

your shoes for you and return them to you later.

Gift ShopsThe only hotel on the tour with a gift shop is the Victoria

Angkor Resort and Spa. There is a small gift shop

onboard the ship as well.

Going AshoreWhen the ship is docked, you are welcome to move

freely between ship and land as much as you like. From

time to time, the ship will be anchored in the middle of

the river. Because of the varying nature of the riverbank,

methods of getting ashore may differ from time to time

and, on occasion, access may be difficult. We will ensure

that the gangways are safe and that crew members are

on hand to assist you.

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GratuitiesGratuities are customary expressions of appreciation

for a job well done, and it is our goal to ensure that the

service you receive is as wonderful as the sites you visit.

The amount of the gratuity you choose to give is entirely

subject to your satisfaction with your travel experience.

To assist you in determining the amount of your gratuities,

we recommend the following as a guideline:

▶ Cruise/Tour Manager: $8 to $10 USD per guest, per

day (given on the last day of the cruise/tour before

departure)

▶ Ship staff and crew: $8 to $10 USD per guest, per day,

to be shared among all ship’s staff and crew (given on

the last day of the cruise before disembarking the ship)

Tips and gratuities are included for local experts, drivers,

local river guides, the rickshaw driver and boatman

during your trip.

Gratuities cannot be billed to onboard accounts, so please

ensure that you have cash on hand for this expense.

Travelers Checks cannot be used to pay gratuities.

Handicapped FacilitiesEmbarkation/disembarkation facilities may be impossible

to navigate with wheelchairs, scooters, walkers or any

other mechanical devices. The ship was not designed

to accommodate physically challenged travelers; it does

not have elevators and is not handicapped or wheelchair

accessible.

Additionally, most shore excursions involve walking over

uneven ground. Some excursions are walking tours only,

and for your safety and enjoyment, we recommend that

all guests be in good physical condition.

Uniworld, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to

refuse passage or to require a current passenger to

end his or her trip if the passenger’s state of health or

physical condition may affect his or her own health,

safety and enjoyment, or that of other passengers.

Insect PrecautionsExternal doors and gauze windows should be kept

closed at all times. At night, if on deck or going ashore,

make sure to apply repellent to ankles and other

exposed skin. While you can expect to encounter

insects, these insects are relatively harmless. Make sure

to switch off lights when leaving your cabin so as not

to lure them in. On the fast-flowing river, mosquitoes

are rarely to be seen while sailing.

Internet AccessComplimentary Wi-Fi is available in the public areas of all

hotels; charges may apply for Internet access in guest

rooms. Internet is available onboard, but it is cellular-

based and can be unreliable.

Intra-Asia Domestic Air TicketYour intra-Asia domestic air ticket will be issued on tour,

and your boarding passes will be given to you by your

Cruise/Tour Manager at the airport.

Land Tours and Shore ExcursionsEach cruise/tour program includes comprehensive shore

excursions led by a local English-speaking expert or your

Cruise/Tour Manager; these excursions have been

designed to provide you with the best possible

experience ashore. On motorcoach tours, we ask that

passengers rotate to allow everyone to sit near the front.

A complete day-by-day shore excursion itinerary is

provided in this booklet. Details of your particular

itinerary can also be found at uniworld.com.

LaundryThe Mekong Navigator provides washing, drying and

ironing services for a fee. Please note that there is no

self-service launderette and there are no dry cleaning

facilities onboard. Your hotels, however, will offer full-service

laundry and dry cleaning options at an additional cost.

MassageMassage services are available onboard the Mekong

Navigator. These services are available for a fee and can

be paid for in cash or with a credit card at the time of

purchase or at the time you settle any of your onboard

charges prior to disembarkation from the ship.

Mooring and Docking FacilitiesThe local river authorities allocate docking space around

ship arrivals and departures in port. There are times

when port conditions require ships to tie up alongside

each other, and guests may be required to walk through

another ship to access their own ship. This is part of the

river cruise experience and is perfectly normal. Guests

may experience obstructed views from staterooms or

suites when the ship is docked.

Moving about the ShipBecause the ship will often be in motion and the decks

will sometimes be slippery, you will need to take care

when moving about the decks. Please be extra cautious

when using the stairs onboard, as they may be steeper

than you are used to. It’s best to always use the handrails.

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Muster StationA deck plan of the ship is provided in your suite. Please

familiarize yourself with the location of the ship’s muster

station. In the event of an emergency, the ship’s whistle

will blast repeatedly and alarm bells will ring. Proceed

immediately to the muster station, where you will put on

a life vest and await further instructions. The muster

station is located in the dining room on the Lotus Deck

and is clearly indicated with signs.

Note that we are not required by Class Societies to carry

lifeboats since it is much quicker to beach the vessel on

the nearest sand bar or river bank and evacuate by foot

than to transfer passengers onto lifeboats.

Responsibility and WaiverThe guest accepts the terms and conditions of the

Passenger Ticket Contract when participating in any

organized shore excursion/tour that is provided by

Uniworld. Participation in some shore excursions or tours

may also be subject to an independent operator’s own

Terms and Conditions.

Safety Deposit BoxEach hotel room and onboard stateroom or suite comes

equipped with a safe. We urge you to leave valuables at

home. We are not responsible for any valuables left in

staterooms or suites. Any charge to return “lost and

found” property will be at the owner’s expense. Please

beware of pickpockets when ashore.

SecurityIn the countries in which we operate, tourists are rarely

targets for theft, but caution is encouraged nonetheless.

A 24-hour watch is kept on the gangplank in order to

control access to the ship, but please keep your deck

door locked when it is not in use and at night. All

staterooms and suites have a combination-type safe;

please use a number you can remember, like the last four

digits of your phone number or your date of birth. The

company cannot be held liable for loss of money, jewelry

or other valuable items from the ship, from a hotel or

while on an excursion ashore during a voyage. In the

Conditions of Carriage, you are required to have taken

out personal travel insurance to cover these possibilities.

ShoppingTime for shopping is usually, but not always, allowed for

within the framework of the sightseeing programs. The

actual amount of time available for shopping may be

limited due to tour constraints. Shopping recommen-

dations can be made by your Cruise/Tour Manager.

Larger stores accept most major credit cards, while

market vendors and small stores usually only accept

local currency (with the exception of Cambodia, which

widely accepts the US dollar). It is a good idea to take a

small amount of cash in local currency to use for on-the-

spot gratuities and to purchase souvenirs or sundries.

SmokingThe ship enjoys a non-smoking environment in all public

areas and in the staterooms and suites. Smoking is

allowed only on the aft section of the upper Sun Deck.

Hotels do not permit smoking except in specific areas; all

guest rooms reserved are non-smoking. Hotels offer

smoking rooms; smoking rooms must be requested at

the time of booking and are very limited. For the comfort

of all passengers, smoking is not permitted on

sightseeing or transfer vehicles.

Suite AmenitiesWe want you to be as comfortable as possible during

your voyage with us. Our stewarding team will do their

best to ensure the highest possible standards of

cleanliness and comfort in your room. Please do not

hesitate to ask if you require anything at all, and please

let us know if you are not satisfied with any aspect of

our service. Suites have minibars. Note that suites do not

have phones. All suites have their own air-conditioning,

mini-safe, luggage storage, wardrobe, writing desk,

emergency button and amenities, including hair dryers,

robes and slippers. All suites on the Orchid Deck have

private balconies, and all suites on the Lotus Deck have

French balconies.

VisitorsVisitors are generally not permitted onboard the

ship and are not allowed to join any shore excursions.

Please make arrangements to meet your friends and

relatives onshore.

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WaterPlease do not drink or brush your teeth with the tap

water while onboard or onshore. The ship’s water supply

comes from the river after passing through a sterilization

plant. This water is suitable for washing but should not

be consumed. Complimentary bottled water for drinking

and brushing teeth is provided onboard, and additional

bottled water will be made available free of charge on

excursions. To save water and reduce detergent use, we

will only change towels daily if they are placed on the

floor. All hotels also provide complimentary in-room

bottled water.

WeatherWeather forecasts are widely available on the Internet.

Uniworld’s favorite resource for up-to-the-minute

international weather is weather.com.

Average Temperatures (Fahrenheit):

Average Low/High (F)

Jan Feb Mar Sep Oct Nov Dec

Hanoi 57/67 59/68 65/73 77/87 72/84 65/77 60/71

Ho Chi Minh City

70/89 73/91 76/93 76/88 76/88 73/88 71/88

Siem Reap 67/90 69/92 79/94 76/90 75/88 72/87 69/88

Bangkok 70/90 74/91 79/95 76/90 76/90 74/89 69/88

Luang Prabang

56/82 58/89 63/93 73/91 69/89 64/85 59/81

Average Temperatures (Celsius):

Average Low/High (C)

Jan Feb Mar Sep Oct Nov Dec

Hanoi 14/19 15/20 18/23 25/30 22/29 18/25 16/22

Ho Chi Minh City

21/32 23/33 24/34 24/31 24/31 23/31 22/31

Siem Reap 19/32 21/33 26/34 24/32 24/31 22/31 21/31

Bangkok 21/32 23/33 26/35 24/32 24/32 23/32 21/31

Luang Prabang

13/28 14/32 17/34 23/33 21/32 18/29 15/27

What to WearPrepare for a variety of weather conditions depending

on your travel season. Layering clothing is smart because

it allows each person to adjust to most temperatures,

including artificially maintained temperatures, by

removing or adding items throughout the day.

Comfortable, sporty, smart-casual daywear is appropriate

both onshore and onboard. For warmer temperatures,

we suggest lightweight clothing that can be layered,

such as a mix of sweaters, lightweight knit shirts, everyday

khakis, slacks, skirts/dresses and walking shorts. Mix-

and-match solid color schemes work best to help keep

baggage light. This program is very different from

European river programs; attire is more casual due to the

region’s warmer temperatures. During the cruise portion

of your program, comfortable, lightweight clothing in

lighter colors is strongly recommended.

Shorts, cotton shirts, good walking shoes and sun hats

during the day are recommended. However, to enter the

temples and other holy sites in Cambodia, guests should

ensure that their shoulders and knees are covered. For

evenings, we recommend casual and cool-weather attire,

and we require footwear to be worn at all times in the

dining room.

You will engage in a significant amount of walking over

uneven terrain during your time ashore. We recommend

comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support.

Sport jackets and cocktail dresses are not needed at any

time during this program.

Don’t forget to pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket

(preferably hooded), or even a heavier-weight wind-

breaker, for colder temperatures that can be found in

Hanoi and Ha Long Bay in late October through February.

OmissionsUniworld is not responsible for omissions or printing

and/or presentation errors in brochures, on Internet

sites, or in any other media where such information

may be presented; we reserve the right to make

corrections as required.

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What time will excursions depart?

All shore excursions are carefully coordinated to the

ship’s daily schedule. Prior to dinner each evening, your

Cruise/Tour Manager will brief all guests about what

activities will take place the next day. This briefing

includes information about departure times, specifics

about the shore excursions/tours not covered in this

booklet, shopping and restaurant recommendations, and

other important information about the port of call. In

addition to the briefing, a daily program will be distributed

to each guest’s stateroom or suite every evening. This

program provides a written overview of all events taking

place the next day—whether onboard or ashore.

Does each motorcoach or walking group have its own

tour guide?

Yes. Each motorcoach or walking group has its own

English-speaking local tour guide. Uniworld tries very

hard to ensure that our guides are of the highest quality

and are well-versed in their subjects to make sure that

you have the best possible time ashore.

What about tipping?

Gratuities should always be in accordance with each

guest’s personal satisfaction. Uniworld endeavors to work

with the best Cruise/Tour Managers and local guides

available. Please refer to the “Gratuities” section of this

book for specific recommendations and guidelines.

What is the transportation like on excursions?

Uniworld works with some of the world’s best tour

companies, all of which are chosen with our exacting

standards in mind. To ensure your maximum enjoyment

of each excursion, all motorcoaches seat 29 to 45

people at most and are air-conditioned whenever

possible. There are a few destinations where the

equipment may not be of a similar standard, and, in

such cases, the best possible transportation will be

arranged. Rest stops are provided throughout the

course of the excursion, as the motorcoaches used for

excursions will not have onboard toilets.

Is smoking allowed on shore excursions/tours?

Smoking is not allowed while on the motorcoach, and

many historical venues now request that visitors not

smoke anywhere on-site. We ask all our guests who

smoke not to do so while on excursions/tours.

Frequently Asked QuestionsI have concerns about my physical ability. What do I do?

Guests with mobility concerns should discuss their

concerns with Uniworld staff in advance of their

departure. Guests requiring the use of a mobility device,

such as a wheelchair, motorized scooter or walker, may

not be able to participate in many shore excursions or

use them onboard the ships. Also, guests who are limited

in their ability to walk long distances may have difficulties

as there is often uneven terrain on many shore excursions.

How accurate are the shore excursion/tour descriptions?

Uniworld does everything possible to ensure that shore

excursions are performed as promoted and as outlined

in the following pages. In certain circumstances or for

reasons beyond the control of Uniworld, it may not be

possible or practical for the excursion to be performed

exactly as written. The decision not to operate, to alter the

operation, to change content, and/or to otherwise adjust

or modify any element of the excursion as advertised is at

the sole discretion of Uniworld, always taking into account

the safety and best interests of the guests and overall

product delivery. Any such modifications to excursions

will not result in eligibility for a refund.

Can the itinerary change? What happens if it

does change?

You can count on the value of Uniworld’s experience

and regional knowledge to make sure you enjoy your

cruise/tour even when conditions beyond our control

occur. The very nature of a river, with its sources and

networks of bridges and locks, means that there will

be times when weather or other conditions in a region

require Uniworld to make adjustments and modifications

to the operation of an itinerary. Itineraries may need to

be altered specifically because of water levels. Although

every effort is made to keep itineraries as advertised,

Uniworld reserves the right to make changes and

substitutions as necessary to ensure the safety of our

guests and the vessels. Time permitting, every possible

effort will be made to alert guests in advance of boarding

of any known changes. Otherwise, all guests will be

informed onboard of amendments. Any changes to

itineraries, including the addition of extensive motorcoach

touring to effect delivery of the intended itinerary

operation, will not result in eligibility for a refund.

CRUISE FLIGHTLAND UNESCONIGHTS ONSHORERiverStart/End EXTENSION

uniworld.com / 25


HO CHI MINH CITY TO HANOI / 15 DAYS

Explore the old and the new, the grand and the intimate

as you tour this dynamic region of Southeast Asia

From the lively and changing metropolises of Vietnam’s

Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, and Cambodia’s Phnom

Penh, to the towns and fl oating villages of the Mekong

(where life is still lived much as it was centuries ago), you’ll

be given an up-close view of two amazing countries.

Throughout your journey, enjoy a plethora of authentic

experiences. Visit traditional Vietnamese fl oating markets

by way of luxury sampan. Take a morning cyclo ride

through Phnom Penh. Receive a water blessing from

monks at a temple overlooking the Mekong. Explore

Cambodia’s UNESCO-designated Angkor Wat temple

complex, and be treated to a traditional Apsara dance

during dinner in Siem Reap. These extraordinary

experiences offer you a chance to discover the sights,

the sounds and the tastes of two countries joined by

one river. The expedition of a lifetime begins now.

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about the history and cultural significance of a craft

that has been practiced in Vietnam for at least 700

years before enjoying lunch on your own.

Ho Chi Minh City is famous for the excellence of its food,

which reflects, inevitably, a certain French influence

combined with the unique flavors of the region. Tonight

you’ll be treated to a special Welcome Dinner at a local

restaurant, featuring an exquisitely presented traditional

meal and complimentary wine—a delightful start for your

exciting Southeast Asian adventure.

Optional Excursion:A O Show a 5 1 bJoin us for a visit to Ho Chi Minh’s handsome Municipal

Theater, with its striking neoclassical facade. Built in

1900 and refurbished in 2009, it now hosts a variety of

companies, including the A O Show, a lively theatrical

performance featuring astonishing acrobatics and

bamboo props—poles, baskets, boats—used in ways you

never would have imagined.

DAY 3 Ho Chi Minh City, transfer to My Tho

b e BB L D

Featured Excursion:Vestiges of war—Cu Chi Tunnels 7 2 bReady for an adventure? Explore a fascinating aspect of

Vietnam’s long struggle to free itself from Western control.

Begun by the Viet Minh on the outskirts of Saigon in

1945, as shelter from French air raids, these tunnels were

expanded in the 1960s by the Viet Cong, who extended

them for many miles. A network of booby-trapped tunnels

led to underground chambers where people lived—in

considerable privation, generally—wounds were treated

and children were taught. Only a small stretch of this

network is open to the public, but if you’re venturesome,

you may climb down into a tunnel for a close (and we

do mean close—don’t expect to stand upright) look.

Following lunch, you’ll be taken to your ship—your

elegant home for the next seven nights—and set sail on

the beautiful Mekong. Onboard your ship this evening,

savor a delicious Vietnamese-themed dinner.

DAY 1 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

b

Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, where you

will be greeted by a Uniworld representative who will

transfer you to your luxury hotel. You will be greeted

with a private check-in, welcome drink and information

packet at the hotel. An elegant flower arrangement and

fruit platter await you in your room. Tonight, consider

popping out to explore the lively Ben Thanh Night Market

or one of the city’s quintessential evening cafés—either

choice would mark a splendid start to your adventure.

DAY 2 Ho Chi Minh City

BB WD

History melds with the boisterous present in Vietnam’s

largest city, where skyscrapers tower over ancient

temples and motorbikes putter along picturesque alleys.

It was founded in 1690; became the capital of French

Cochinchina in the 1860s, when it was known as Saigon;

and acquired its modern moniker in 1976, when it was

named for Communist leader Ho Chi Minh.

Featured Excursion:Dynamic Ho Chi Minh City 7 1 bA landmark in Vietnamese history is the first destination

on your panoramic city tour today, as you travel the city’s

busy streets, passing elegant French Colonial buildings

and bustling shopping centers. On April 30, 1975, a

North Vietnamese army tank crashed through the gates

of the building now called the Reunification Palace,

symbolizing the downfall of the South Vietnamese

government and the end of the Vietnam War. It’s a

modern structure, commissioned in 1962 by the president

of South Vietnam after his own air force tried to kill him

by bombing the 19th-century French palace that had

stood on the site. As you will see when you step inside,

he intended to enjoy living here: It has a cinema and a

nightclub—and, not too surprisingly, a spacious bomb

shelter. A few blocks away, two monuments from the

colonial days still stand: the lofty General Post Office,

designed by Gustav Eiffel (of tower fame), and, across the

street, twin-towered Notre Dame Cathedral, built entirely

with materials shipped from France. Your motorcoach

will carry you past other remnants of French colonial

glory—the Ho Chi Minh Municipal Theater (also known

as the Saigon Opera House, built in 1901 and modeled

on Paris’s Petit Palais) and the City Hall (based on the

Hôtel de Ville in Paris)—as well as the contemporary

American consulate. But the day includes more than

sightseeing: Visit a lacquer showroom to learn a bit

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DAY 5Sa Dec, Gieng Island, cruising the Mekong River

BB L D

Two very different destinations await you today: busy

Sa Dec and peaceful Gieng Island. Both reflect Vietnam’s

multicultural history.

Featured Excursions:Sampans and colonial romance 7 2 STake to Sa Dec’s narrow canals just as the locals do.

Children frolic in the water, fishermen ply their trade, and

women care for their families. From here, you’ll head into

town, where you will walk through a crowded and

colorful local market—stands sell everything from snake

blood, fresh fish, clothing and flowers to mangosteens—

on your way to the romantic, lacelike Huynh Thuy Le

House, a late-19th-century home made famous by

best-selling French novelist Marguerite Duras. Duras

spent her teen years in Sa Dec, and her prize-winning

novel, The Lover, is said to be based on her doomed love

affair with Huynh Thuy Le, the son of a wealthy Chinese

landowner. Sail from bustling Sa Dec to serene Gieng

Island to dip into another aspect of Vietnam’s past: The

triangle-shaped island is home to a surprising array of

19th-century Catholic churches and monasteries that

date to an era when it was the largest Catholic parish in

Vietnam. Though the Franciscan monastery and the

Providence nunnery have been largely abandoned,

stately Gieng Island Church is still in daily use. Some

records indicate that the graceful French baroque-style

church predates the famous basilica in Ho Chi Minh City,

but it’s more likely that it was built in the 1870s.

Regardless of origin or the ups and downs the Catholic

community has experienced over the years, the church

remains a beautiful tribute to the faith of its founders.

Did You Know? The French film based on Duras’ 1984 novel was the first Western movie to be shot in Vietnam since 1975. It was released in 1992 and was a huge hit in France.

DAY 4 Cai Be, Vinh Long

BB L D

Today’s itinerary features two towns that have been

shaped by the Mekong in this agrarian but densely

populated region, Vinh Long and Cai Be.

Featured Excursion:Village life on the Mekong 7 2 SChinese herbal-medicine shops, French Colonial houses

and Buddhist temples mingle with modern offices on

the streets of Vinh Long, the capital of Vinh Long

province. The range of buildings hints at the changes

that the region has seen. Hop into a trishaw for a ride

through these streets, crossing over some of the many

canals that lace through the town, on your way to meet

some of the village elders, who will tell you about their

experiences living life on the delta. Vinh Long is a

gateway to some of the region’s most colorful

destinations: Step aboard a sampan—the style of this

vessel is traditional, but the one you’ll board is much

more luxurious than those generally used on these

waters—and join the locals thronging the harbor of

Cai Be. At the floating market here, merchants advertise

their wares by attaching a sample—such as a

watermelon, a coconut or a bunch of bananas—to a tall

bamboo pole so their potential customers can easily

see what they’re selling. It’s a colorful and lively scene,

typical of Mekong Delta towns, though few similar

villages feature a handsome French Gothic–style

cathedral as a background. You’ll sail into the town and

land near the An Kiet House, built early in the 19th

century for a member of the royal family. Its ornately

carved antique screens and furnishings give you an

idea of how wealthy Southern Vietnamese families

lived. While you’re on solid ground, take a look at

another aspect of life of the delta: Vietnam is one of

the world’s largest producers and exporters of rice, and

the Mekong Delta is known as the country’s “rice bowl.”

You’ll learn all about this staple food and its importance

to the region as you visit a local establishment where

workers make everything from rice paper and rice wine

to traditional rice candy.

Did You Know? Though the exterior of Cai Be’s church is traditional, the interior features an array of colorful neon lights outlining the altar fixtures, including the cross.

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DAY 6Tan Chau, Evergreen Island, cruising the Mekong River BB L D

Thousands of boats ply the waters of the Mekong—

wooden cargo boats, water taxis, dredges, fishing craft.

Traditional and modern elements mingle in this region,

but the river rules everything.

Featured Excursion:Daily life on the great delta 7 3 S In the Mekong Delta, hardworking residents live and

labor on the water, harvesting what the delta gives them

and turning it into products they can sell to earn a living

or food they can eat, wasting nothing. Today you’ll get a

taste of this way of life during a sampan tour that carries

you through the floating villages that line the banks of

the great river to the town of Tan Chau. Stop at a temple

devoted to Vietnam’s homegrown religion Cao Dai

(a faith that incorporates most major world religions,

including Buddhism, Islam and Christianity, as well as

a pantheon of saints that range from Joan of Arc to

Thomas Jefferson and Victor Hugo); an image of the

Divine Eye appears in every temple, and each color that

decorates the temple has a specific meaning. After

visiting the temple, hop aboard a rickshaw for a ride to

a factory where you can watch baskets and mats being

handwoven from reeds grown on the delta, and check

out a floating fish farm. The raising and harvesting of

seafood is one of Vietnam’s fastest-growing industries,

and you’ll be amazed by the efficiency and ingenuity on

display. You may even get a chance to feed the fish. Then

return to your sampan to cruise through the canals to

Evergreen Island, where a rickshaw ride through the

village reveals traditional houses built on stilts, an essential

precaution during the rainy season, when the Mekong

rises and spills into all of the towns that line the river.

This afternoon, you’ll cross the Vietnamese border, and

tomorrow you’ll awake in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s

capital city, for the next leg of your exciting journey.

DAY 7 Phnom Penh BB L D

Founded in the 15th century, Phnom Penh is the thriving

capital of the kingdom of Cambodia. It stands at the

juncture of three rivers and is divided into three distinct

districts: the French colonial area, a handsome residential

district and a rapidly changing Old Town.

Featured Excursion:Cambodia’s capital—Phnom Penh 7 1 A cyclo (a cycle rickshaw) will whisk you down wide

boulevards laid out by French colonial administrators in

the 1860s, when Cambodia was part of French Indochina,

past old French-influenced buildings, beautiful pagodas

and (with a bit of luck) saffron-robed monks, on your way

to the Royal Palace. Spacious grounds—you might notice

a resemblance to formal French parterres—are home to

a group of structures featuring classic Khmer architecture.

Each one has a specific function: The Throne Hall, with

its spires and flying celestials, hosts royal coronations,

while the Moonlight Pavilion was intended as a venue

for dance performances (but is now used for receptions).

The famed Temple of the Emerald Buddha, commonly

known as the Silver Pagoda, boasts a floor-covering of

5,329 silver tiles. In the center of the pagoda are both an

emerald and a gold Buddha statue (the latter of which

is studded with nearly 10,000 diamonds). You’ll also tour

the National Museum, which features an incomparable

collection of the nation’s archaeological and artistic

treasures. Following lunch onboard, enjoy the afternoon

and evening at leisure, taking in the shopping and lively

entertainment venues of Phnom Penh.

Optional Excursion:Banana Tree Culinary cooking school a 7 1 bAre you curious about the unique flavors of traditional

Khmer cuisine? Cinnamon, garlic, chiles, fish sauce,

coconut milk—many of the ingredients will be familiar,

but they are combined in distinctive ways. Get some

hands-on cooking experience as an expert local chef

teaches you how to make several typical Khmer dishes

in her modern demonstration kitchen, and then sit

down and enjoy the fruits of your labors.

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Did You Know? Tucked among the traditional Khmer buildings on the Royal Palace grounds is an ornate white pavilion, complete with wrought-iron balustrades, that would fit perfectly in New Orleans. Napoleon III had it built for the opening ceremonies of the Suez Canal, then disassembled and sent as a gift to King Norodom.

DAY 8 Phnom Penh, cruising the Mekong River BB L D

Featured Excursion:The Killing Fields—tragedy and reconciliation

in Cambodia 7 1 bIt’s hard to reconcile the pastoral serenity of the orchards

and rice fields surrounding Choeung Ek with the horrific

mass executions that took place here during the brutal

reign of the Khmer Rouge, yet the memorial stupa filled

with the skulls of Pol Pot’s victims tells the tale. These

were the Killing Fields, where more than 17,000 men,

women and children were slaughtered and buried in mass

graves. First, however, they were tortured in Security

Prison 21 (also known as S-21), a former high school

on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, now the Tuol Sleng

Genocide Museum, which you will also visit today. The

guards and staff of the prison were mostly adolescent

males—aged 15 to 19—among whom was a young

photographer whose job was to document the prisoners.

Though many of his photos were destroyed, 6,000 of

them remain, displayed on the walls here; as you look at

these portraits, you’ll see grief, fear and defiance—and

you’ll be heartbroken to learn that out of the thousands

held here, only seven survived. Those who were killed at

Choeung Ek were just a small fraction of the almost two

million Cambodians who died in a three-year period

between 1975 and the beginning of 1979.

DAY 9 Angkor Ban, Wat HancheyBB L D

The mighty river carries you into the Cambodian

countryside today, giving you an opportunity to meet

and chat with locals.

Featured Excursion:Cambodia’s vibrant cultural life 7 3 bBe ready to answer questions when you visit a local

school—because the children love to practice their

English—and deepen your understanding of Cambodia

when you meet villagers in their homes. You may

encounter more children when you stop at a beautifully

situated temple complex on a hilltop. Wat Hanchey has

incredible views of the Mekong River—you get a real

sense of just how huge the river is as you see it stretch

into the distance, looking more like a great lake than a

river. The complex itself is a remarkable mixture of the

ancient and the new: An eighth-century Angkor temple

and a modern Buddhist temple share the area—along

with playful gibbons and enormous, colorfully painted

concrete statues. Before your departure you’ll receive

a traditional water blessing from the local monks—one

of the most personal and touching moments you’ll

experience on this journey.

To mark the end of this special day, and to commemorate

your last evening onboard the ship, you’ll be treated to a

decadent Cambodian-themed dinner. Take your place in

the dining room and enjoy delectable dishes prepared in

the style of those once served to Cambodian royalty.

DAY 10Kampong Cham, transfer to Siem Reap

e b BB L

You’ll disembark in the morning and transfer via executive

motorcoach to Siem Reap, a place name that means,

literally, “Defeat of Siam”—which tells you something of

its history. It is the gateway to Angkor, the legendary

archaeological site. Enjoy a day at leisure.

DAY 11 Siem Reap

u BB

The next two days are devoted to the astonishing

Angkor Wat complex.

Featured Excursion:Amazing Angkor Wat 9 3 bEvery aspect of Angkor Wat had religious meaning to

its builders 900 years ago: the great rectangular moat,

the main gate facing the west, the towers topped with

stone lotuses, the huge smiling stone heads, the layout of

the lanes and buildings. The largest religious monument

in the world, magnificent Angkor Wat is the single most

recognizable landmark in Cambodia. It is simply breath-

taking in both size and scope and boasts the longest

continuous bas-relief in the world. Although Angkor Wat

is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its importance is so

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immeasurable, several other conservation organizations

have been enlisted to help ensure its protection.

And yet, Angkor Wat is just one piece of this enormous

complex at the heart of the ancient Khmer Empire (which

ruled this region between the ninth and 12th centuries). It

was part of a roughly 250-square-mile (64,749-hectare)

city that has largely disappeared into the jungle, though

excavation efforts are ongoing (recent laser imaging has

revealed another, even larger nearby city under the jungle

floor that was linked to the temple city). Today’s lunch

will be on your own.

Featured Excursion:Art School & Artisan Visit by remork 5 1 bClimb aboard a remork for a relaxing tour of the streets of

Siem Reap, with stops at several artisans’ workshop that

will introduce you to Siem Reap’s thriving arts scene. Your

first stop is Tlai Tno, an art association where young

performers learn the intricate moves of traditional Apsara

dance. You’ll also visit Artisans Angkor’s workshops, which

promote the resurrection of traditional Khmer crafts:

hand-carved sculptures in wood or stone, lacquerwork,

silk paintings and silk fabrics—all locally made by hand in

the traditional way—are available at the shop.

Note: Order of sightseeing may change throughout the day. Temple visits are subject to change due to factors beyond our control.

DAY 12 Siem Reap

u BB D

Featured Excursions:South Gate Angkor Thom, Bayon and Ta Prohm,

Apsara show and dinner 9 3 bPass between the stone figures lining the lane leading

to the intricately decorated south gate and enter the

spectacular remnants of Angkor Thom, the royal city.

Once a huge, square city, Angkor Thom was founded

in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII after his

people’s previous capital had been overrun by the

Chams. You can still see the defensive measures that

surrounded the city—in fact, you’ll enter through one,

crossing over the moat and passing through the

intricately decorated south gate in the great wall around

Angkor Thom. The king’s palace, made of wood, has long

since vanished, but the ruins that remain are astonishing:

the pyramidal temple of Bayon (with the enormous

carved heads that have become an iconic symbol of

the Angkor archaeological area), the Baphuon temple,

the grand Terrace of the Elephants and the lichen-

covered Terrace of the Leper King.

You’ll have some time for lunch on your own before

heading to the amazing “jungle temple” of Ta Prohm.

Unlike the other Angkor temples, which have been

painstakingly excavated and restored, Ta Prohm has

been left almost as it was found. Massive trees grow like

magic out of stone walls and roofs, their tentacle-like

roots pouring over doorways and stretching across

courtyards. This manmade wonder has been reclaimed

by the jungle over the course of many centuries, and

exploring it is sure to bring out the adventurer in you.

From Ta Prohm, you’ll move on to the unfinished temple

of Ta Keo. Legend has it that construction on Ta Keo was

suspended when the temple was struck by lightning—an

event that was considered a bad omen.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, you’ll indulge in a

lavish dinner with an Apsara dance show. Apsara is the

traditional Khmer dance form that tells stories and

conveys messages using ornate costumes, graceful

movements, codified facial expressions, and distinctive

hand and foot positions. The many Apsara figures that

adorn Angkor and pre-Angkor temples you’ve just visited

testify to the dance form’s long and esteemed history.


Optional Excursion:Bakheng sunrise and Angkor Thom gondola

boat tour a 7 3 b For a once-in-a-lifetime dawn experience, watch the sun

rise gloriously above the distant towers of Angkor Wat

from the summit of Bakheng, savor breakfast at a local

café—and then the adventure really begins: Step into a

traditional Khmer gondola, with its carved scales and

dragonhead prow, and drift serenely among the ancient

ruins, stopping to inspect a small cave and make a short

trek up to the ruins of Prasat Chrung.

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Notes:

later, the university opened its doors to gifted students

from throughout the land, teaching them the principles

of Confucianism for another 300 years. Today you can

experience Confucian tranquility among its beautiful

gardens and pavilions. You can see another aspect of

Vietnam’s history if you step into one of the dank cells

at the notorious “Hanoi Hilton,” as Hoa Lo, a French

colonial–era prison, was known to the American pilots

who were held there as prisoners of war during the

Vietnam War. Much of the original prison has been

demolished, but the remnants are now a museum.

After an included lunch, it’s time to hop aboard an

electric car for a tour of colonial Hanoi. The city’s

elegant, tree-lined boulevards and weathered colonial

buildings are sure to delight you, as are the affable street

vendors selling everything from flowers to ice cream off

the backs of their bicycles. Take in a traditional water

puppet show, a thousand-year-old musical performance

that tells tales from northern Vietnam’s rural villages.

The action takes place on a pool of water that stands in

for rainy-season rice paddies; the beautifully crafted

puppets seem to float on the water—and those seated

in the front rows might just get wet.

Tonight, you’ll be treated to a special Farewell Dinner

with complimentary wine at a local restaurant featuring

live music and an authentic northern Vietnamese dining

experience. It’s the perfect combination of delectable

fare, warm atmosphere and traditional entertainment—a

fitting finale for such a remarkable adventure.

Optional Excursion:Bat Trang ceramic village a 7 2 bThe people of Bat Trang have been making fine porcelain

since the 14th century, and these days their wares are

exported all over the world. Walk through the alleys to

a workshop where you can see dishes and many other

objects being made by hand. You can even try making a

piece yourself—a truly special memento of your trip.

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DAY 13 Siem Reap, fly to Hanoi, Vietnam

b d BB

Today you’ll fly from Siem Reap to Hanoi and check into

your luxury hotel, where you’ll be greeted with a private

check-in and a welcome briefing with complimentary

drinks. You’ll also find that an elegant flower arrangement

and fruit platter await you in your room. The remainder of

your time today is yours to spend at leisure in Vietnam’s

charming capital city.

Featured Excursion:Khmer Noodle House at Preak Dak Village 5 1 bKhmer legend holds that China got the recipe for

noodles from a Cambodian exile. Modern-day foodies

know that if Cambodia has a national dish, it’s num banh

chok, the traditional rice noodles that are most often

combined with fish sauce and fresh vegetables—and the

num banh chok made in Preah Dak is famous throughout

the country. This village, near the Angkor Wat temple

complex, abounds in noodle stalls, but the highlight for

visitors may be the chance to see the traditional process

by which these noodles are made. Watch as the rice flour

and water are hand-kneaded to form a dough, which is

then laboriously pressed through a heavy mill to create

the noodles. Preah Dak itself is as almost as traditional as

the noodle-making process, as you’ll see as you stroll

among the stilt houses: water buffalo graze nearby,

water is drawn from wells, and meals are cooked over

open fires.

DAY 14 Hanoi BB L FD

The capital of Vietnam, millennium-old Hanoi gracefully

mixes the old and new. French Colonial mansions line

handsome boulevards, lakes and parks invite lingering,

and modern office buildings tell of economic revival.

Featured Excursion:Atmospheric Hanoi 9 1 bSpend the day exploring a city some call Asia’s most

beautiful. You’ll visit a complex honoring Ho Chi Minh,

founder of modern Vietnam, that contains his residence,

a museum devoted to his life, and the famous One Pillar

Pagoda, which has been built and rebuilt since 1049. Also

on the agenda: the Temple of Literature, originally built

as a Confucian temple in 1070 AD. Six years later on the

same grounds, Vietnam’s first university was founded

to educate members of the nobility. Four hundred years

CRUISE FLIGHTLAND UNESCONIGHTS ONSHORERiverStart/End EXTENSION

uniworld.com / 39

DAY 15 Depart Hanoi

b CB/BB

Transfer to Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport for your

fl ight home or continue your tour with an extraordinary

Ha Long Bay optional extension program or unique Sapa

optional extension program.

Note: Visit uniworld.com for visa information in the “Already Booked” section.

Note: The itineraries presented are subject to modifi cation due to water levels, closures because of public holidays or other uncontrollable factors. Every effort will be made to operate programs as planned, but changes may still be necessary throughout the cruise/tour.

Note: All extras, such as optional excursions, bottled water, gratuities for the Cruise/Tour Manager and Crew, drinks, telephone calls, laundry and items of a personal nature, are not included in the cost of the trip.

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HANOI TO HO CHI MINH CITY / 15 DAYS

Explore the old and the new, the grand and the intimate

as you tour this dynamic region of Southeast Asia

From the lively and changing metropolises of Vietnam’s

Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, and Cambodia’s Phnom

Penh, to the towns and fl oating villages of the Mekong

(where life is still lived much as it was centuries ago), you’ll

be given an up-close view of two amazing countries.

Throughout your journey, enjoy a plethora of authentic

experiences. Visit traditional Vietnamese fl oating markets

by way of luxury sampan. Take a morning cyclo ride

through Phnom Penh. Receive a water blessing from

monks at a temple overlooking the Mekong. Explore

Cambodia’s UNESCO-designated Angkor Wat temple

complex, and be treated to a traditional Apsara dance

during dinner in Siem Reap. These extraordinary

experiences offer you a chance to discover the sights,

the sounds and the tastes of two countries joined by

one river. The expedition of a lifetime begins now.

.

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Notes:

DAY 1 Hanoi, Vietnam

b

Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport, where you will be

greeted by a Uniworld representative who will transfer

you to your luxury hotel. Enjoy a private check-in with a

complimentary welcome drink and briefing at the hotel.

You’ll also find that an elegant flower arrangement and

fruit platter await you in your room. The remainder of

your time today is yours to spend at leisure in Vietnam’s

charming capital city.

DAY 2 HanoiBB L WD

The capital of Vietnam, millennium-old Hanoi gracefully

mixes the old and new. French Colonial mansions line

handsome boulevards, lakes and parks invite lingering,

and modern office buildings tell of economic revival.

Featured Excursion:Atmospheric Hanoi 9 1 b Spend the day exploring a city some call Asia’s most

beautiful. You’ll visit a complex honoring Ho Chi Minh,

founder of modern Vietnam, that contains his residence,

a museum devoted to his life, and the famous One Pillar

Pagoda, which has been built and rebuilt since 1049.

Also on the agenda: the Temple of Literature, originally

built as a Confucian temple in 1070 AD. Six years later

on the same grounds, Vietnam’s first university was

founded to educate members of the nobility. Four

hundred years later, the university opened its doors

to gifted students from throughout the land, teaching

them the principles of Confucianism for another

300 years. Today you can experience Confucian

tranquility among its beautiful gardens and pavilions.

You can see another aspect of Vietnam’s history if you

step into one of the dank cells at the notorious “Hanoi

Hilton,” as Hoa Lo, a French colonial–era prison, was

known to the American pilots who were held there as

prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. Much of the

original prison has been demolished, but the remnants

are now a museum.

After an included lunch, it’s time to hop aboard an electric

car for a tour of colonial Hanoi. The city’s elegant, tree-

lined boulevards and weathered colonial buildings are sure

to delight you, as are the affable street vendors selling

everything from flowers to ice cream off the backs of


their bicycles. Take in a traditional water puppet show,

a thousand-year-old musical performance that tells tales

from northern Vietnam’s rural villages. The action takes

place on a pool of water that stands in for rainy-season

rice paddies; the beautifully crafted puppets seem to float

on the water—and those seated in the front rows just

might get wet.

Tonight, you’ll be treated to a special Welcome Dinner with

complimentary wine at a lively local restaurant featuring

live music and an authentic northern Vietnamese dining

experience. It’s the perfect combination of delectable fare,

warm atmosphere and traditional entertainment—a fitting

start for your exciting adventure.

DAY 3 Hanoi, fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia

b d BB

Spend the morning exploring Hanoi on your own before

flying to Siem Reap, where you’ll enjoy a private check-in

and welcome drink at your luxury hotel. You’ll also find

an elegant flower arrangement and fruit platter in your

room, a friendly touch. The evening is at your leisure. You

might want to go out and try some of the local Khmer

cuisine or simply relax over dinner on your own at the

hotel. Tomorrow you will be journeying deep into the

heart of the Angkor temple complex.

Optional Excursion:Bat Trang ceramic village a 7 2 bThe people of Bat Trang have been making fine porcelain

since the 14th century, and these days their wares are

exported all over the world. Walk through the alleys to

a workshop where you can see dishes and many other

objects being made by hand. You can even try making a

piece yourself—a truly special memento of your trip.

Notes:

DAY 4 Siem Reap

u BB L

Siem Reap means, literally, “Defeat of Siam,” which tells

you something of its history. It is the gateway to Angkor,

the legendary archaeological site, and you’ll dip into both

destinations today.

Featured Excursion:Angkor Wat and Khmer Noodle House at

Preah Dak Village 7 3 bPut on your walking shoes and prepare to explore one of

the wonders of the world: the vast, fascinating and

stunning temple complex known as Angkor Wat. Every

aspect of Angkor Wat had religious meaning to its

builders 900 years ago: the great rectangular moat, the

main gate facing the west, the towers topped with stone

lotuses, the huge smiling stone heads, the layout of the

lanes and buildings. The largest religious monument in

the world, magnificent Angkor Wat is the single most

recognizable landmark in Cambodia. It is simply

breathtaking in both size and scope. Today you’ll get

your passes to the site and take a tour of the broad

outlines of the complex; tomorrow you’ll explore further.

Following your introduction to Angkor Wat, you’ll head

off to nearby Preah Dak, a village famous for its num

banh chok, the traditional rice noodles that are

Cambodia’s unofficial national dish. (Noodles are so

intrinsic to Cambodian cuisine that the nation claims

China got the recipe for noodles from a Cambodian

exile.) Noodle stalls abound in Preah Dak, but the

highlight for visitors may be the chance to see the

traditional process by which these noodles are made at

the Khmer Noodle House. Watch as the rice flour and

water are hand-kneaded to form a dough, which is then

laboriously pressed through a heavy mill to create the

noodles. Preah Dak itself is as almost as traditional as the

noodle-making process, as you’ll see as you stroll among

the stilt houses: water buffalo graze nearby, water is

drawn from wells, and meals are cooked over open fires.

Featured Excursion:Art School & Artisan visit by remork 5 1 bClimb aboard a remork for a relaxing tour of the streets

of Siem Reap, with stops at several artisans’ workshop

that will introduce you to Siem Reap’s thriving arts scene.

Your first stop is Tlai Tno, an art association where young

performers learn the intricate moves of traditional Apsara

dance. You’ll also visit Artisans Angkor’s workshops, which

promote the resurrection of traditional Khmer crafts:

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hand-carved sculptures in wood or stone, lacquer work,

silk paintings and silk fabrics—all locally made by hand in

the traditional way—are available at the shop.


Dinner tonight will be on your own.

DAY 5 Siem Reap

u BB D











intricately decorated south gate in the great wall

around Angkor Thom. The king’s palace, made of wood,

has long since vanished, but the ruins that remain are

astonishing: the pyramidal temple of Bayon (with the

enormous carved heads that have become an iconic

symbol of the Angkor archaeological area).





been left almost as it was found. Massive trees grow

like magic out of stone walls and roofs, their tentacle-

like roots pouring over doorways and stretching

across courtyards. This manmade wonder has been

reclaimed by the jungle over the course of many

centuries, and exploring it is sure to bring out the

adventurer in you. From Ta Prohm, you’ll move on

to the unfinished temple of Ta Keo. Legend has it that

construction on Ta Keo was suspended when the

temple was struck by lightning—an event that was

considered a bad omen.

Notes:

After an exciting day of sightseeing, you’ll indulge in

a lavish dinner with an Apsara dance show. Apsara is the

traditional Khmer dance form that tells stories and



hand and foot positions. The many Apsara figures that

adorn Angkor and pre-Angkor temples you’ve just visited

testify to the dance form’s long and esteemed history.


Optional Excursion:Bakheng sunrise and Angkor Thom gondola

boat tour a 7 3 b For a once-in-a-lifetime dawn experience, watch the sun

rise gloriously above the distant towers of Angkor Wat

from the summit of Bakheng, savor breakfast at a local

café—and then the adventure really begins: Step into a

traditional Khmer gondola, with its carved scales and

dragonhead prow, and drift serenely among the ancient

ruins, stopping to inspect a small cave and make a short

trek up to the ruins of Prasat Chrung.

DAY 6 Siem Reap, transfer to Kampong Cham

u b e BB L D

Board your intimate ship and get your first taste of life

on the mighty Mekong River. To mark the end of this

special day, you’ll be treated to a decadent Cambodian-

themed dinner.

DAY 7 Wat Hanchey, Angkor Ban BB L D

Relax onboard as your ship cruises along the Mekong,

the great river that is the lifeblood of Southeast Asia,

on your way to Wat Hanchey.

Featured Excursion:Cambodia’s vibrant cultural life 7 3 b A beautifully situated temple complex on a hilltop, Wat

Hanchey has incredible views of the Mekong River—you

get a real sense of just how huge it is as you see it stretch

into the distance, looking more like a great lake than a

river. The complex itself is a remarkable mixture of the

ancient and the new: An eighth-century Angkor temple

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and a modern Buddhist temple share the area—along with

playful gibbons and enormous, colorfully painted concrete

statues. Before your departure you’ll receive a traditional

water blessing from the local monks—one of the most

personal and touching moments you’ll experience on this

journey. Follow it up with another personal encounter as

you visit a local school—be ready to answer questions as

the children practice their English—and meet villagers in

their homes.


Founded in the 15th century, Phnom Penh is the thriving

capital of the kingdom of Cambodia. It stands at the

juncture of three rivers and is divided into three distinct

districts: the French colonial area, a handsome residential

district and a rapidly changing Old Town.

Featured Excursion:Cambodia’s capital—Phnom Penh 7 1 A cyclo (a cycle rickshaw) will whisk you down wide

boulevards laid out by French colonial administrators

in the 1860s, when Cambodia was part of French

Indochina, past old French-influenced buildings,

beautiful pagodas and (with a bit of luck) saffron-robed

monks, on your way to the Royal Palace. Spacious

grounds—you might notice a resemblance to formal

French parterres—are home to a group of structures

featuring classic Khmer architecture. Each one has a

specific function: The Throne Hall, with its spires and

flying celestials, hosts royal coronations, while the

Moonlight Pavilion was intended as a venue for dance

performances (but is now used for receptions).

The famed Temple of the Emerald Buddha, commonly

known as the Silver Pagoda, boasts a floor-covering

of 5,329 silver tiles. In the center of the pagoda are

both an emerald and a gold Buddha statue (the latter

is studded with nearly 10,000 diamonds). You’ll also tour

the National Museum, which features an incomparable

collection of the nation’s archaeological and artistic

treasures. Following lunch onboard, enjoy the afternoon

and evening at leisure, taking in the shopping and lively

entertainment venues of Phnom Penh.

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intricately decorated south gate in the great wall

around Angkor Thom. The king’s palace, made of wood,

has long since vanished, but the ruins that remain are

astonishing: the pyramidal temple of Bayon (with the

enormous carved heads that have become an iconic

symbol of the Angkor archaeological area).





been left almost as it was found. Massive trees grow

like magic out of stone walls and roofs, their tentacle-

like roots pouring over doorways and stretching

across courtyards. This manmade wonder has been

reclaimed by the jungle over the course of many

centuries, and exploring it is sure to bring out the

adventurer in you. From Ta Prohm, you’ll move on

to the unfinished temple of Ta Keo. Legend has it that

construction on Ta Keo was suspended when the

temple was struck by lightning—an event that was

considered a bad omen.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, you’ll indulge in

a lavish dinner with an Apsara dance show. Apsara is

the traditional Khmer dance form that tells stories and



hand and foot positions. The many Apsara figures

that adorn Angkor and pre-Angkor temples you’ve

just visited testify to the dance form’s long and

esteemed history.


Optional Excursion:Banana Tree Culinary cooking school a 7 1 b Are you curious about the unique flavors of traditional

Khmer cuisine? Cinnamon, garlic, chiles, fish sauce,

coconut milk—many of the ingredients will be familiar,

but they are combined in distinctive ways. Get some

hands-on cooking experience as an expert local chef

teaches you how to make several typical Khmer dishes

in her modern demonstration kitchen, and then sit down

and enjoy the fruits of your labors.

Did You Know? Tucked among the traditional Khmer buildings on the Royal Palace grounds is an ornate white pavilion, complete with wrought-iron balustrades, that would fit perfectly in New Orleans. Napoleon III had it built for the opening ceremonies of the Suez Canal, then disassembled and sent as a gift to King Norodom.


Featured Excursion:The Killing Fields—tragedy and reconciliation

in Cambodia 7 1 b It’s hard to reconcile the pastoral serenity of the orchards

and rice fields surrounding Choeung Ek with the horrific

mass executions that took place here during the brutal

reign of the Khmer Rouge, yet the memorial stupa filled

with the skulls of Pol Pot’s victims tells the tale. These were

the Killing Fields, where more than 17,000 men, women

and children were slaughtered and buried in mass graves.

First, however, they were tortured in Security Prison 21

(also known as S-21), a former high school on the outskirts

of Phnom Penh, now the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum,

which you will also visit today. The guards and staff of

the prison were mostly adolescent males—aged 15 to

19—among whom was a young photographer whose job

was to document the prisoners. Though many of his

photos were destroyed, 6,000 of them remain, displayed

on the walls here; as you look at these portraits, you’ll

see grief, fear and defiance—and you’ll be saddened to

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learn that out of the thousands held here, only seven

survived. Those who were killed at Choeung Ek were just

a small fraction of the almost two million Cambodians

who died in a three-year period between 1975 and the

beginning of 1979.

DAY 10Cruising the Mekong River, Evergreen Island, Tan Chau BB L D

You leave Cambodia behind and cross into Vietnam

today, delving into a region where traditional and

modern lifestyle elements mingle: Agriculture may still

reign supreme, but TV satellite dishes dot rooftops of

houses built on stilts.

Featured Excursion:Daily life on the great delta 7 3 S In the Mekong Delta, hardworking residents live and

labor on the water, harvesting what the delta gives

them and turning it into products they can sell to earn

a living or food they can eat, wasting nothing. Today

you’ll get a taste of this way of life during a sampan

tour that carries you through the floating villages that

line the banks of the great river to the town of Tan Chau.

Stop at a temple devoted to Vietnam’s homegrown

religion Cao Dai (a faith that incorporates most major

world religions, including Buddhism, Islam and Christianity,

as well as a pantheon of saints that range from Joan of

Arc to Thomas Jefferson and Victor Hugo); an image of

the Divine Eye appears in every temple, and each color

that decorates the temple has a specific meaning. After

visiting the temple, hop aboard a rickshaw for a ride to

a factory where you can watch baskets and mats being

handwoven from reeds grown on the delta, and check

out a floating fish farm. The raising and harvesting of

seafood is one of Vietnam’s fastest-growing industries,

and you’ll be amazed by the efficiency and ingenuity

on display. You may even get a chance to feed the fish.

Then return to your sampan to cruise along the canals

to Evergreen Island, where a rickshaw ride through the

village reveals traditional houses on stilts, which are

essential during the rainy season, when the Mekong

rises and spills into all of the towns that line the river.

DAY 11Cruising the Mekong River, Gieng Island, Sa DecBB L D

Two very different destinations await you today: busy

Sa Dec and peaceful Gieng Island. Both reflect Vietnam’s

multicultural history.

Featured Excursion:Sampans and colonial romance 5 2 S Take to Sa Dec’s narrow canals just as the locals do.

Children frolic in the water; fishermen ply their trade; and

women care for their families. From here, you’ll head into

town, where you will walk through a crowded and

colorful local market—stands sell everything from snake

blood, fresh fish, clothing and flowers to mangosteens—

on your way to the romantic, lacelike Huynh Thuy Le

House, a late-19th-century home made famous by

best-selling French novelist Marguerite Duras. Duras

spent her teen years in Sa Dec, and her prize-winning

novel, The Lover, is said to be based on her doomed

love affair with Huynh Thuy Le, the son of a wealthy

Chinese landowner. Sail from bustling Sa Dec to serene

Gieng Island to dip into another aspect of Vietnam’s

past: The triangle-shaped island is home to a surprising

array of 19th-century Catholic churches and

monasteries that date to an era when it was the largest

Catholic parish in Vietnam. Though the Franciscan

monastery and the Sisters of Providence nunnery have

been largely abandoned, stately Gieng Island Church is

still in daily use. Some records indicate that the graceful

French baroque-style church predates the famous

basilica in Ho Chi Minh City, but it’s more likely that it

was built in the 1870s. Regardless of origin or the ups

and downs the Catholic community has experienced

over the years, the church remains a beautiful tribute to

the faith of its founders.

Notes:

DAY 12 Vinh Long, Cai Be BB L D

Today’s itinerary features two towns that have been

shaped by the Mekong in this agrarian but densely

populated region, Vinh Long and Cai Be.

Featured Excursion:Village life on the Mekong 5 2 S Chinese herbal-medicine shops, French Colonial houses

and Buddhist temples mingle with modern offices on

the streets of Vinh Long, the capital of Vinh Long

province. The range of buildings hints at the changes

that the region has seen. Hop into a trishaw for a ride

through these streets, crossing over some of the many

canals that lace through the town, on your way to meet

some of the village elders, who will tell you about their

experiences living life on the delta. Vinh Long is a

gateway to some of the region’s most scenic destinations:

Step aboard a sampan and join the locals thronging the

harbor of Cai Be. At the floating market here, merchants

advertise their wares by attaching a sample—such as

a watermelon, a coconut or a bunch of bananas—to a

tall bamboo pole so their potential customers can easily

see what they’re selling. It’s a colorful and lively scene,

typical of Mekong Delta towns, though few similar

villages feature a handsome French Gothic–style

cathedral as a background. You’ll sail into the town

and land near the An Kiet House, built early in the 19th

century for a member of the royal family. Its ornately

carved antique screens and furnishings give you an idea

of how wealthy Southern Vietnamese families lived.

While you’re on solid ground, take a look at another

aspect of life of the delta: Vietnam is one of the world’s

largest producers and exporters of rice, and the Mekong

Delta is known as the country’s “rice bowl.” You’ll learn

all about this staple food and its importance to the

region as you visit a local establishment where workers

make everything from rice paper and rice wine to

traditional rice candy.

Onboard your ship this evening, savor a delicious

Vietnamese-themed dinner.

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DAY 13 My Tho, transfer to Ho Chi Minh City

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You’ll leave the river behind today, disembarking and

heading to the last stop on your Southeast Asian

adventure, Ho Chi Minh City. History melds with the

boisterous present in Vietnam’s largest city, where

skyscrapers tower over ancient temples and motorbikes

putter along picturesque alleys. It was founded in 1690;

became the capital of French Cochinchina in the 1860s,

when it was known as Saigon; and acquired its modern

moniker in 1976, when it was named for Communist

leader Ho Chi Minh.

Featured Excursion:Dynamic Ho Chi Minh City 5 1 b A landmark in Vietnamese history is the first destination

on your panoramic city tour today, as you travel the city’s

busy streets, passing elegant French Colonial buildings

and bustling shopping centers. On April 30, 1975, a

North Vietnamese Army tank crashed through the gates

of the building now called the Reunification Palace,

symbolizing the downfall of the South Vietnamese

government and the end of the Vietnam War. It’s a

modern structure, commissioned in 1962 by the president

of South Vietnam after his own air force tried to kill him

by bombing the 19th-century French palace that had

stood on the site. As you will see when you step inside,

he intended to enjoy living here: It has a cinema and a

nightclub—and, not too surprisingly, a spacious bomb

shelter. A few blocks away, two monuments from the

colonial days still stand: the lofty General Post Office,

designed by Gustav Eiffel (of tower fame), and, across the

street, twin-towered Notre Dame Cathedral, built entirely

with materials shipped from France. Your motorcoach will

carry you past other remnants of French Colonial glory—

the Ho Chi Minh Municipal Theater (also known as the

Saigon Opera House, built in 1901 and modeled on Paris’s

Petit Palais) and the City Hall (based on the Hotel de

Ville in Paris)— as well as the contemporary American

Consulate. But the day includes more than sightseeing:

Visit a lacquer showroom to learn a bit about the history

and cultural significance of a craft that has been practiced

in Vietnam for at least 700 years. The rest of the day

is yours. Perhaps you’d like to explore on your own—or

join one of our optional excursions.

Notes:

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Optional Excursion:Mai Home cooking class a 5 1Pho may be the nation’s best-known dish in the

United States, but that’s just the beginning. Learn more

about Vietnamese cuisine with a hands-on cooking

class that starts with a visit to a local market, where a

knowledgeable chef will meet you and tell you about

the foodstuffs on display (some may seem quite exotic).

Once you’ve gathered what you need for a delicious

lunch, you’ll prepare it under the chef’s guidance at the

Saigon Culinary Art Centre. You’ll leave with a new under-

standing of Vietnam’s traditional cooking, as well as a

certificate of participation and a handbook of recipes.

Optional Excursion:A O Show a 5 1 bJoin us for a visit to Ho Chi Minh’s handsome Municipal

Theater, with its striking neoclassical facade. Built in

1900 and refurbished in 2009, it now hosts a variety of

companies, including the A O Show, a lively theatrical

performance featuring astonishing acrobatics and

bamboo props—poles, baskets, boats—used in ways you

never would have imagined.

DAY 14 Ho Chi Minh City BB L FD

Featured Excursion:Vestiges of war—Cu Chi Tunnels 7 2 b Ready for an adventure? Explore a fascinating aspect

of Vietnam’s long struggle to free itself from Western

control. Begun by the Viet Minh on the outskirts of

Saigon in 1945, as shelter from French air raids, these

tunnels were expanded in the 1960s by the Viet Cong,

who extended them for many miles. A network of

booby-trapped tunnels led to underground chambers

where people lived—in considerable privation,

generally—wounds were treated, and children were

taught. Only a small stretch of this network is open to

the public, but if you’re venturesome, you may climb

down into a tunnel for a close (and we do mean

close—don’t expect to stand upright) look.

Following this morning’s tour you’ll enjoy lunch at one of

Ho Chi Minh City’s well-known restaurants. Afterwards,

enjoy the rest of the day on your own in this vibrant city.

Ho Chi Minh City is famous for the excellence of its food.

Tonight you’ll be treated to a special Farewell Dinner at a

local restaurant, featuring an exquisitely presented

traditional meal and complimentary wine—the perfect

finale for your Southeast Asian adventure.

DAY 15 Depart Ho Chi Minh City

b CB/BB

Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International

Airport for your flight home, or continue your tour with

an extraordinary optional Bangkok extension program.

Note: Visit uniworld.com for visa information in the “Already Booked” section.

Note: The itineraries presented are subject to modification due to water levels, closures because of public holidays or other uncontrollable factors. Every effort will be made to operate programs as planned, but changes may still be necessary throughout the cruise/tour.

Note: All extras, such as optional excursions, bottled water, gratuities for the Cruise/Tour Manager and Crew, drinks, telephone calls, laundry and items of a personal nature, are not included in the cost of the trip.

54CST #2075415-20

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