Vietnam/Cambodia
The People of the Mekong: Vietnam, Cambodia and Angkor Wat
Program No. 1868160MEADV-1116-60
Dive deep into the ancient cultures of the Mekong, learning about daily village life, grand temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and traditional artistry from the people who live here.
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DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Jan 11 - Jan 27, 2025
Starting at
3,999Feb 8 - Feb 24, 2025
Starting at
3,999Feb 15 - Mar 3, 2025
Starting at
3,999DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Jan 11 - Jan 27, 2025
Starting at
4,949Feb 8 - Feb 24, 2025
Starting at
4,949Feb 15 - Mar 3, 2025
Starting at
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17 days
16 nights
35 meals
14B 1BR 10L 10D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
2
En Route
In Flight
7
Halong Bay, Fishing Village, Coach to Hanoi, Fly to Saigon
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
8
Economic Development Lecture, Walking Discovery of Saigon
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
9
Cu Chi Tunnels, Free Time
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
16
Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Free Time
Siem Reap
17
Program Concludes
In Flight
At a Glance
Experience the spirit of Southeast Asia as you immerse yourself in the cultures, heritage and natural beauty of Vietnam and Cambodia. In these timeless lands, learn about Cambodia’s mysterious temples and the Vietnamese perspective on the Vietnam War, and experience the simple beauty of daily life in the villages, weaving workshops and kitchens of these two nations.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to three miles at a time at a normal public walking pace over varied terrain. Standing at least three hours daily; climbing stairs (at times without handrails), getting on/off buses and boats, carrying own luggage. If you believe you require wheelchair assistance to get through an airport you are not fit enough to participate in this program.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Spend one night on a Vietnamese barge among the stunning limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay.
- View the temple restoration in Siem Reap at Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm (the Jungle Temple) and Banteay Srei (the Citadel of Women).
- Encounter the history of the Khmer Rouge regime at a memorial and a security prison.
Suggested Reading List
(27 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
The People of the Mekong: Vietnam, Cambodia and Angkor Wat
Program Number: 18681
The Mekong, Turbulent Past, Uncertain Future
A cultural history of the great river from prehistory to European exploration, colonial tensions and modern challenges. It's an engaging introduction to the history of Southeast Asia.
Angkor and the Khmer Civilization
A concise but complete picture of Khmer cultural history from the Stone Age until the establishment of the French Protectorate in 1863. It is lavishly illustrated with maps, plans, drawings, and photographs. Unlike other histories that focus largely on the temples, author's focus is on the people, traditions, and the development of their culture.
Art & Architecture of Cambodia
An illustrated overview of Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei and lesser-known recent discoveries in the surrounding jungle.
Arts of Southeast Asia
A handsome guide to the art, architecture, textiles and crafts of Southeast Asia.
First They Killed My Father
A heart-wrenching historical autobiography that recounts the brutality of war with vivid detail. A story of political oppression in Cambodia, it is all the more striking and intense as it is told from the perspective of a child, one who is thrust into situations that she doesn't understand, as she is only five years old when the terror begins.
Temples of Cambodia, The Heart of Angkor
Jessup (Art and Architecture of Cambodia) provides the accompanying essays to this oversized portfolio of dazzling color images by Barry Brukoff, who has been photographing the monuments of Cambodia since 1963.
Vietnam, Rising Dragon
The veteran BBC newsman covers the tangled politics, rapidly changing economy, culture, history and people of Vietnam with great insight in this timely portrait of a nation in transition.
Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia Map
A convenient, double-sided map of Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam at a scale of 1:1,500,000, with city maps of Hanoi, Vientiane, Ho Chi Minh City, Luang Prabang, and Phnom Penh. Includes the eastern portion of Thailand and Bangkok.
Golden Bones, An Extraordinary Journey from Hell in Cambodia to a New Life in America
Full of determination and hope, this is a gripping memoir about the author's family and idyllic childhood in Pochentong, but also the terrors of the Khmer Rouge culminating in escape to freedom in America.
A Traveller's History of Southeast Asia
A compact history of the region, including the Khmer and the various ancient kingdoms that produced Borobudur, Angkor and other architectural marvels.
The Eaves of Heaven, A Life in Three Wars
Pham recounts the story of his father's life during the French occupation, Japanese invasion and the American War, weaving such momentous events with anecdotes from his childhood and details of family, friends, food and daily life.
Communion, A Culinary Journey Through Vietnam
Fay recounts in savory detail a five-week journey with two friends from Hanoi to Saigon in search of the traditions, rituals and pleasures of food from local markets and street foods to haute cuisine.
The Road of Lost Innocence
Sold into servitude by her grandfather, Mam recounts the experiences of her early life, her awakening as an activist -- and work to rescue thousands of women and children in Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam and Laos.
A Cambodian Prison Portrait
There are many myths about the Khmer Rouge's bloodthirstiness and brutality, but there was at least one place where they all were real: Security Prison 21, the secret police's killing machine. Of the 14,000 or so prisoners who were brought there for questioning, only a handful survived. One of them was the artist Vann Nath (1946-2011). In this thin little book, he describes his horrifying year behind the barbed wired walls of S-21. This book ranks among the most important and strongest witness-stories of world literature.
The Quiet American
A classic, this is the most famous Western work of fiction on Vietnam. Greene writes of a love triangle between a war correspondent, his Vietnamese consort and an optimistic young American during the last days of French rule.
A Dragon Apparent, Travels in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam
A classic account of travels and adventure during the last years of French Indochina, strong on atmosphere and including wonderfully detailed descriptions of local cultures and archaeological treasures. First published in 1951.
The River's Tale, A Year on the Mekong
A personal, probing chronicle of a 3,000 mile journey on the river from its source in China through Tibet, Burma, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia to the Mekong Delta in Vietnam.
Eyewitness Guide Vietnam and Angkor Wat
Featuring innovative site diagrams, local maps and hundreds of color photographs, this handy companion introduces the culture, history and attractions of Vietnam.
A History of Cambodia
An excellent, scholarly history from early civilization through the rise of Angkor, French colonial period, Vietnamization of Cambodia, Khmer Rouge and Coup de Force of 1997.
Birds of Southeast Asia
This authoritative, masterfully illustrated guide, featuring 140 color plates covering 1,270 species throughout the region, also includes Malaysia, Burma, Borneo and Indonesia.
Vietnam, A Traveler's Literary Companion
From rain forest and rural countryside to the cities, these 17 stories from Vietnam's finest writers explore its landscapes, myths and changing traditions.
Fire in the Lake
A classic historical, political and cultural portrait of the Vietnam War, seen through the eyes of the Vietnamese. Winner of both the Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award, FitzGerald, a staff writer at the New Yorker and a reporter in Vietnam, presents a vivid image of a revolution and a clear-sighted case for why the U.S offensive was doomed from the start.
The Gods Drink Whiskey
Asma writes with verve and wit in this eye-opening account of his yearlong stint teaching at the Buddhist Institute in Phnom Penh. His account is both an overview of Theravada Buddhism and a down-to-earth portrait of contemporary Cambodia.
To Cambodia With Love
This is an insightful book of works from 50 writers on the history, culture and attractions of Cambodia, including Khmer specialist Dawn Rooney (Odyssey Guide Angkor) and memoirist Loung Ung (First They Killed My Father).
Vietnam Journeys
Photographer and traveler Charles Fields portrays the cultures and landscapes of Vietnam from the World Heritage Site of Hue and the Phung Hiep floating market to its forests and coastline in stunning color photographs.
Lonely Planet Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & the Greater Mekong
This compact practical guide covers the entire Mekong from the heights of Yunnan to Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia.
Cambodia's Curse, The Modern History of a Troubled Land
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Joel Brinkley returns to Cambodia a generation after the fall of the Khmer Rouge regime to report on the country's continuing struggle to recover from its past.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
17 days
Program Begins
Hanoi
Program Concludes
Siem Reap
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
35
| 14B |
1BR |
10L |
10D |
Activity Level
Experience the spirit of Southeast Asia as you immerse yourself in the cultures, heritage and natural beauty of Vietnam and Cambodia. In these timeless lands, learn about Cambodia’s mysterious temples and the Vietnamese perspective on the Vietnam War, and experience the simple beauty of daily life in the villages, weaving workshops and kitchens of these two nations.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Spend one night on a Vietnamese barge among the stunning limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay.
- View the temple restoration in Siem Reap at Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm (the Jungle Temple) and Banteay Srei (the Citadel of Women).
- Encounter the history of the Khmer Rouge regime at a memorial and a security prison.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to three miles at a time at a normal public walking pace over varied terrain. Standing at least three hours daily; climbing stairs (at times without handrails), getting on/off buses and boats, carrying own luggage. If you believe you require wheelchair assistance to get through an airport you are not fit enough to participate in this program.
Small Group
(13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(27 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
17 days
16 nights
What's Included
35 meals | 14B | 1BR | 10L | 10D |
10 expert-led lectures
21 expert-led field trips
1 flight during the program
2 hands-on experiences
2 performances
An experienced Group Leader
14 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
En Route
Location:
In Flight
Day
3
Arrive Hanoi, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Hanoi
Meals:
D
Stay:
Mercure Hanoi La Gare Hotel
Activity Note
Hotel check-in available from 2:00 p.m. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers. Due to arrivals throughout the day, group Orientation will be held tomorrow.
Afternoon:
Hotel check-in available from 2:00 p.m. Check into the hotel, relax and freshen up before our orientation and dinner. Orientation: Your Group Leader will greet everyone with a warm welcome and lead introductions. In addition to the program theme and logistics, we will review the up-to-date daily schedule and any changes, discuss responsibilities, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer any questions you may have. Please be aware that indicated times are approximate and that program activities and schedules could change due to local circumstances such as weather, traffic conditions, etc. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. During free time, the Group Leader will often be available for informal excursions, activities, or meals not included in the program. You are welcome to join if you wish, with any associated costs at your own expense.
Dinner:
Welcome Dinner at the hotel. Dinner includes a complimentary glass of wine. Coffee, tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
4
Ba Dinh Square, Museum of Ethnology, Free Time
Location:
Hanoi
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Mercure Hanoi La Gare Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off motorcoach; minimal driving time. Walking up to 2 miles total throughout the day; paved walkway at Ba Dinh Square. Wearing shorts, tank tops and hats are not permitted at Ba Dinh Square.
Breakfast:
Buffet at the hotel. Coffee, tea and water included.
Morning:
This morning we will be joined at the hotel by a local expert for a presentation on the History of Vietnam. After the lecture, we board our motorcoach to visit Ba Dinh Square. This is where Ho Chi Minh read out the Declaration of Independence in 1945. Across the street, we find the One Pillar Pagoda, constructed to celebrate the heiress Emperor Ly Thai Tong who dreamt about receiving a son from the Buddhist goddess of mercy and compassion. Our exploration continues at the Temple of Literature, only a few years younger than Hanoi itself. This, the country’s oldest monument to education, is one of the world’s earliest universities. Dedicated to Confucius in 1070, it initially accepted only children of the nobility, but by 1442 it embraced gifted students from throughout the country. The preserved and reconstructed buildings are a rare example of traditional Vietnamese architecture. Its lovely courtyards, trees, gardens and paths provide a tranquil glimpse into the past.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant, we will have plated meals. Coffee, tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Our next stop will be the Museum of Ethnology for an expert-led visit. Here we learn about the life and culture of the 54 ethnic groups that live in Vietnam. The remainder of the afternoon is free for you to explore on your own.
Dinner:
At own arrangements. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
5
Cooking Class, Old Quarter, Water Puppet Show
Location:
Hanoi
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Mercure Hanoi La Gare Hotel
Activity Note
Motorcoach transfer to the cooking class (driving approximately 2 miles/3.2 kilometres). Electric car ride around the Old Quarter in the afternoon.
Breakfast:
Buffet at the hotel. Coffee, tea and water included.
Morning:
This morning we take a hands-on cooking class at Madam Tuyet's. Madame Tuyet became famous both locally and internationally when her Anh Tuyet restaurant was visited in 2002 by American chef Anthony Bourdain. During our class we visit the local market and learn about Vietnamese ingredients. We then proceed to prepare and cook our own northern Vietnamese cuisine.
Lunch:
At Madam Tuyet’s, we will savor our Vietnamese creations. Coffee, tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Next, we explore Hanoi's vibrant Old Quarter while riding an electric car near Hoam Kiem Lake and the surrounding area. Remnant of a bygone era, the Old Quarter has the original street layout and architecture of old Hanoi. At the beginning of the 20th century the city consisted of only about 36 streets, most of which are now part of the Old Quarter. Each street then had merchants and households specializing in a particular trade, such as silk traders, jewelry, etc. The street names still reflect those specializations, although few of them remain exclusively in their original area of commerce. Before dinner, we delight in a Mua Roi Nuoc performance. Also known as Water Puppet Theatre, Mua Roi Nuoc tells the story of day-to-day living in rural Vietnam. Water puppetry is performed in a pool, depicting scenes from rural life and episodes of national history. This uniquely northern Vietnamese art form is a centuries old variation on ancient Asian puppet traditions. Puppets would be put out to watch over crops, and when fields flooded, villagers would entertain themselves with the puppets.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we will have plated meals. Coffee, tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
6
Halong Bay, Vietnamese Junk, Thien Canh Son
Location:
Halong Bay
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Victory Cruise
Activity Note
Driving approximately 113 miles (181 kilometers) / 3.5 hours, with a stop along the way. Getting on/off a Vietnamese junk. We will anchor and spend the night aboard the boat. Land excursions require getting in/out of rowboats, which comfortably sit 4 people plus the rower. Walking approximately 1 mile total throughout the day.
Breakfast:
Buffet at the hotel. Coffee, tea and water included.
Morning:
After checking out of our hotel, we drive to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here we board a traditional Vietnamese Junk for one night. "Ha Long", which means "Bay of Descending Dragons", is a stunning site famous for its scenic ocean karst topography and peaceful horizon. Along the way, our Group Leader will teach us a little more about life in northern Vietnam.
Lunch:
Buffet aboard the boat. Coffee, tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We board our rowboats to explore the well-hidden Thien Canh Son Cave. Thien Canh Son Cave offers a wild and mysterious beauty. The interior of the cave is an ethereal wonderland with naturally carved images resembling a lotus flower and a baby elephant. The ceiling of the cave is covered with a shiny ‘gem carpet’, and numerous sparkling stalactites appear like ’hanging lamps’. Stone statues of seals and flowers create an imaginary dream world. We return to the junk. Before dinner we have a presentation on the environmental and ecological issues affecting Halong Bay.
Dinner:
Aboard the boat, we will have plated meals. Coffee, tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure. Enjoy the sunset in Halong Bay. Be sure to prepare for check-out in the morning.
Day
7
Halong Bay, Fishing Village, Coach to Hanoi, Fly to Saigon
Location:
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Meals:
B,BR
Stay:
Sila Urban Living
Activity Note
Land excursions require getting in/out of rowboats. Walking approximately 1 mile total throughout the day, including through the cave on rocky and uneven terrain, with steps. The cave entrance has descending, steep stairs with no hand railings. The drive from Halong Bay to Hanoi International Airport is approximately 113 miles (181 kilometres) / 3.5 hours, with a stop along the way.
Breakfast:
On board the boat. Watch the sun rising over the bay with coffee, tea and pastries. Those who wish may participate in a tai chi session.
Morning:
This morning we visit Vung Vieng fishing village. We transfer from the junk to the smaller rowboats. We return to our junk and prepare for check-out.
Brunch:
Mid-morning, we will have a buffet brunch in the boat's dining room. After brunch we will disembark the boat and transfer to Hanoi airport via motorcoach for our flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Along the way, our Group Leader will teach us about Vietnam after the introduction of the 'open door policy' in the mid-1980s.
Afternoon:
We arrive at the airport and check into our flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). We will have a light snack at the airport. Upon our arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, we transfer to the hotel via motorcoach and check in. The remainder of the afternoon and evening is at leisure.
Dinner:
At own arrangements. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
8
Economic Development Lecture, Walking Discovery of Saigon
Location:
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Sila Urban Living
Activity Note
Walking approximately 3 miles/5 kilometres total throughout the day; indoors and outdoors, sidewalks and city streets, some stairs.
Breakfast:
Buffet at the hotel. Coffee, tea and water included.
Morning:
We begin our day by visiting a local university for a private lecture on Economic Development in the Mekong Delta. Following the presentation, we have a chance to engage with the university professor and some students to ask questions and learn about higher education in Vietnam.
Lunch:
We experience the traditional Vietnamese dish of pho.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we walk to Reunification Hall (the former Presidential Palace) which was built as a modern administrative center. Led by our Group Leader, we will explore this unchanged relic of the 1970s and see the impressive interiors as well as the tanks, bunker, and helicopter on the grounds surrounding it. We continue on our walking discovery of Saigon and learn more about Vietnamese history. We stop by the Notre Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office before walking along Ly Tu Long Street to the Pittman Apartment Building. It was from here that the USA evacuees were flown out in 1975. We then walk to Dong Khoi Street to see the City Hall and Opera House. We continue to walk by the Continental, Caravel and Saigon Dong Du Hotels and learn about their place in history. At the conclusion of our field trip, we return to the Grand Hotel at leisure. We have some down time before transferring to dinner.
Dinner:
In a restaurant located in a historic villa.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
9
Cu Chi Tunnels, Free Time
Location:
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Sila Urban Living
Activity Note
The Cu Chi Tunnels are located outside the city, approximately 3 hours round trip by coach (depending on traffic). Walking about 3 miles/5 kilometres total throughout the day; indoors and outdoors, sidewalks and city streets, some stairs.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
This morning we experience the Cu Chi Tunnels - an immense network of connecting underground tunnels located in the Cu Chi district of Ho Chi Minh. The tunnels were used by Viet Cong guerrillas as hiding spots during combat, as well as serving as communication and supply routes, hospitals, food and weapon caches and living quarters for numerous guerrilla fighters. The tunnel systems were of great importance to the Viet Cong in their resistance to American forces, and helped achieve ultimate military success.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant, we will have plated meals. Coffee, tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Free time. Take this opportunity for independent exploration to see and do what interests you most in Saigon. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities for ideas. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
At own arrangements.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
10
Cruise the Mekong Delta, Transfer to Chau Doc
Location:
Chau Doc
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Victoria Chau Doc Hotel
Activity Note
Getting in/out of, standing and sitting in small boats; about 1 hour travel on the boats. Driving approximately 88 miles (142 kilometres) / 4 hours, with stops. Walking up to 1 mile total throughout the day.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We depart for the Mekong Delta and begin our journey along the Mekong River. Along the way we stop in Cai Be, where we board small boats to explore the arms of the Mekong River.
Lunch:
At an ancient house, we will have plated meals. Coffee, tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We re-board our motorcoach and continue our drive to Chau Doc. Along the way our Group Leader will teach us about the changing culture of the Mekong Delta. Chau Doc sits at the junction of a tributary linking the Bassac and Mekong Rivers on the border between Vietnam and southeastern Cambodia. An incredibly friendly and bustling little city, it has a color scheme to match its ambiance with bright pastel hues of green, blue and purple adorning many of the newer shopfronts. Upon arrival, we will check into our hotel.
Dinner:
At the hotel, we will have plated meals. Coffee, tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
11
Sam Mountain, Temple Visits, Free Time
Location:
Chau Doc
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Victoria Chau Doc Hotel
Activity Note
Short drive up to the top of Sam Mountain via motorcoach. Walking up to 1/2 mile (1 hour) at approximately 600 feet in elevation; dirt path to the viewing platform.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
This morning we take a field trip to Sam Mountain, the highest elevation on the Mekong. The mountain provides a spectacular view of the region's rice paddies, canal system and the Cambodian border. We stop briefly at one of the temples located at the bottom of Sam Mountain.
Lunch:
At own arrangements.
Afternoon:
Free time. Enjoy the afternoon by relaxing or continue exploring independently.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out, transfer and border crossing in the morning.
Day
12
Border Crossing, Phnom Penh, National Museum, Royal Palace
Location:
Phnom Penh
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Poulo Wai Hotel & Apartment
Activity Note
Getting on/off vessel; the ride is approximately 69 miles (111 kilometers) / 4 - 5 hours. Be sure to have your passport accessible for the border crossing; border formalities can take up to 1 hour depending on how busy the border station is. Walking up to 1 mile/3.2 kilometres total throughout the day, mostly indoors at field trip sites.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Once checked out of the hotel, we will board a speedboat on the Mekong and continue our journey to Cambodia. At the Vietnam/Cambodia border, we will go through immigration formalities before proceeding to Phnom Penh.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant in Phnom Penh, we will have plated meals. Coffee, tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Phnom Penh has a fascinating history. It was once known as the “Paris of the East”. This afternoon we visit the National Museum. The National Museum is the most significant public repository of Khmer artifacts in the country, displaying many important Angkorian artifacts as well as rare pieces from later periods. We move next to the Cambodian Royal Palace. Here we explore this fascinating compound, including the Silver Pagoda. We then transfer to our hotel and check in.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we will have plated meals. Coffee, tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
13
S-21, Choeung Ek Killing Fields Memorial, Free Time
Location:
Phnom Penh
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Poulo Wai Hotel & Apartment
Activity Note
Driving approximately 10 miles (16 kilometres) / 1 hour one way. Walking approximately 2 miles/3.2 kilometres total throughout the day; some stairs at S-21, narrow dirt paths at Choeung Ek Killing Fields Memorial. These sites require reverence for victims of genocide; appropriate dress required, no shorts or tank tops.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
This morning we are joined by a local expert for a presentation on the Current Economic and Political Conditions of Cambodia. We then visit S-21, the interrogation center, and Choeung Ek Killing Fields Memorial. Extremely somber and intensely powerful, these sites will help us to understand some of the horrors and devastation of Pol Pot's regime, and the legacy it left behind. The Khmer Rouge ruled Cambodia from 1975 to 1979.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Free time. Enjoy the afternoon by relaxing or continue exploring independently. Visit one of the local markets, walk the city streets, or just relax at the hotel.
Dinner:
At own arrangements.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning to Siem Reap.
Day
14
Drive to Siem Reap, Silk Farm in Kampong Thom
Location:
Siem Reap
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Tara Angkor Hotel
Activity Note
This will be a full day trip. Driving approximately 200 miles/320 kilometres throughout the day; from Phnom Penh to Kampong Thom is approximately 96 miles (155 kilometres) / 2.5 hours; from Kampong Thom to Siem Reap is approximately 100 miles (160 kilometres) / 2.5 hours.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Once checked out of the hotel, we will board our motorcoach and set out for Siem Reap. We stop at a silk farm located en route in Kampong Thom. We will reach the farm in the late morning.
Lunch:
At the silk farm, we will have plated meals. Tea and water included.
Afternoon:
The owner of the farm will provide an overview of the processes involved in creating Cambodian silk. We will learn about the worms, as well as dying and weaving techniques. Following our field trip, we continue on our drive to Siem Reap and check into the hotel upon arrival.
Dinner:
At the hotel, we will have plated meals. Coffee, tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
15
Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei, Traditional Cambodian Dance
Location:
Siem Reap
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Tara Angkor Hotel
Activity Note
This will be a full-day field trip. Getting in/out of motorcoach frequently; short drives. Standing and sitting in the morning sun in hot and humid weather. Walking approximately 2 miles total throughout the day on uneven terrain; sturdy and closed-toe footwear recommended.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Guided by a local expert, we begin our introduction to the temples of Angkor with a visit to Banteay Srei. Also known as the Citadel of Women, or the Pink Temple, Banteay Srei is made of pink sandstone and was built in the latter half of the 10th century by Rajendravarman II and Jayavaraman V.
Lunch:
At the home of our hosts, we will have plated meals. Tea and water included.
Afternoon:
After lunch we visit Ta Prohm. Built at the height of the Khmer Empire by Jayavarman VII as a Buddhist monastery and center of learning, Ta Prohm has a traditional Khmer structure consisting of a series of gradually smaller enclosures, the largest of which is approximately 3,281 feet by 2,133 feet (1,000 metres x 650 metres). The sanctuary is centered around the huge, elevated stone face of Prajnaparamita, the personification of wisdom, whose features were modeled after those of the king's mother. Ta Prohm's popularity has soared in recent years along with the rest of the Angkor complex. It also appeared in the movie "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider." We return to the hotel and watch "The Flute Player". This documentary is about a Cambodian American who escaped Cambodia but returns to his home country to help revive the Khmer traditional performing arts.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we will have plated meals. Coffee, tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
This evening we enjoy an Apsara Dance performance by a group of local artists that are working to preserve the traditional Cambodian classical arts. As evidenced in part by the innumerable apsaras (celestial dancers) that adorn the walls of Angkorian and pre-Angkorian temples, this dance has been a part of Khmer culture for more than a millennium.
Day
16
Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Free Time
Location:
Siem Reap
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Tara Angkor Hotel
Activity Note
Early rise and transfer to Angkor Wat to watch sunrise. Driving about 8 miles/12.9 kilometres for the day, approx. 1/2 hour. Walking approximately 2 miles; periods of standing and sitting at sites; hot and humid weather.
Breakfast:
Setting out with a local expert before dawn, we will immerse ourselves in the breathtaking beauty of Angkor Wat at sunrise. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century. The best-preserved temple at the site, Angkor Wat is also the only temple to have remained a significant religious center since its construction. It was built to embody the Hindu tradition – specifically dedicated to the god Vishnu – but gradually shifted to become a primarily Buddhist site as the official religion of the Khmer Empire changed. After our sunrise viewing, we return to our hotel for our breakfast buffet featuring a variety of options including local and international cuisine with both hot and cold dishes. Coffee, tea and water included.
Morning:
After breakfast we explore Angkor Thom, the last and most enduring capital city of the Khmer empire. Established in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, the mesmerizing temple of Bayon sits at the center of the city. We leave the temple and transfer to a local pagoda. Here we take part in a traditional Khmer ritual. Buddhist monks will offer a private blessing ceremony to wish us health, good luck and safe travels. Following our blessing, we are free until dinner time. You may choose to return straight to the hotel or continue exploring on your own.
Lunch:
At own arrangements.
Afternoon:
Free time. Enjoy the afternoon by relaxing or continue exploring independently. We come together in the early evening and transfer via motorcoach to our Farewell Dinner.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we will have our Farewell Dinner (plated). Dinner includes a complimentary glass of wine or beer. Coffee, tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase. Share some of your favorite experiences from the program with new Road Scholar friends.
Evening:
Say farewell to new Road Scholar friends and prepare for departure in the morning.
Day
17
Program Concludes
Location:
In Flight
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 12:00 noon. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel. This concludes our program.
Morning:
Transfer to Siem Reap airport (for those who have booked their flights through Road Scholar) for flights home. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
35 Meals
14 Breakfasts
10 Lunches
1 Brunch
10 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 15, 2025
- Jan 04, 2025 - Jan 20, 2025 (Hanoi to Siem Reap)
- Jan 11, 2025 - Jan 27, 2025 (Hanoi to Siem Reap)
- Feb 08, 2025 - Feb 24, 2025 (Hanoi to Siem Reap)
- Feb 15, 2025 - Mar 03, 2025 (Hanoi to Siem Reap)
- Feb 22, 2025 - Mar 10, 2025 (Hanoi to Siem Reap)
- Mar 01, 2025 - Mar 17, 2025 (Hanoi to Siem Reap)
- Oct 11, 2025 - Oct 27, 2025 (Hanoi to Siem Reap)
- Nov 15, 2025 - Dec 01, 2025 (Hanoi to Siem Reap)
- Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 15, 2025 (Hanoi to Siem Reap)
Participant Reviews
Based on 38 Reviews
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Above and beyond the rich historical and cultural immersion in the area of South East Asia, I was enriched by the remarkable resilience of warm and gentle people so affected by decades and even centuries of wars. It was an eye opener and a lesson in the what is best in human spirit.
— Review left March 4, 2024
Wonderful Geography, Wonderful Culture, Wonderful People, wonderful Tour! Highly recommended :)
— Review left February 20, 2024
The trip was wonderful. Our group leader, Long, was the glue keeping us laughing, helping us through minor issues and holding us together and on time. I can't say enough about how kind, lovingly helpful and attentive he was to our needs.
The itinerary kept us busy learning and experiencing, not just the sites, but the people and their lives. Long served as a knowledgable and enthusiastic guide through Vietnam. We had two supplemental fantastic lectures from University Professors while there. When we got to Cambodia, we were joined by a marvelous additional guide from that country and were treated to a fascinating lecture from a local
journalist.
The experiences were unforgettable; shopping for food and making our lunch in Hanoi, dodging motor scooters as we crossed busy streets, moving through vast caves and sailing through restful waters in beautiful Halong Bay, crawling through narrow tunnels in the CuChi jungle, musing over the sad tragedy of the killing fields, patiently awaiting a spiritual sunrise at dawn before the moat at Ankor Wat and scaling the steep steps into its central tower with a group of Buddhist Monks.
Throughout, the accommodations were spacious and comfortable. The food was plentiful, authentic and delicious. All transfer and travel arrangements rolled out seamlessly. We had Road Scholar arrange our travel, and, if I have one negative, it was that our flight home contained a 9.5 hour layover in Singapore we were prepared for and a 2 hour layover between NY and Singapore we hadn't been told about, making the trip home stretch to nearly 45 hours .
This was our first Road Scholar Trip. If it was any indication of their overall quality and care, it certainly won't be our last.
Barry and Colette
— Review left February 12, 2024
This was our first experience with Road Scholar and we are already planning our next adventure. Our group leader, Long, made shepherding 21 people through a trip that included bus rides, cruises, and flights between cities, look easy. The lecturers were so interesting and the sites well chosen. Our hotels were of uniformly good quality and the food excellent. Best of all, we enjoyed our time with our fellow travelers. What a wonderful group of people!
— Review left February 7, 2024
Go to Vietnam and Cambodia and try to get Kong as your guide!
— Review left February 4, 2024
Where would we be without Road Scholar: A Beautiful Thing
— Review left January 24, 2024
This trip was amazing! It provided a great understanding of both countries' experiences through the years in several ways: 1) our insightful and inspiring tour leader, Pham Thuy Duong, who shared personal experiences and had great organizational skills; 2) structured opportunities to talk with locals (students, academics, artisans) who added color to the overall experience; 3) striking a good balance between structured activities (from museums and historical sites to natural wonders) and blocks of free time to explore; and 4) the diversity of what we saw, from 1000 year old ruins to cities with five million motor scooters, from a rural silk farm to gorgeous Halong Bay. The food and hotels were excellent (and they accommodated a pescatarian diet with no problem). We would recommend this trip and our trip leader to anyone wanting to learn more about this complex region.
— Review left January 3, 2024
I found this tour exceptional - I learned so much about the region, the history, art, culture and food. Every detail was well-planned and the timing was very good. I found the pace and the activity levels just right. It made me want to go back to the region and explore further. I met many new friends and am already keeping in touch with them. Highly recommend.
— Review left December 26, 2023
WE were kept very busy, but had leisure time as well. I learned a great deal about the history and culture of the two countries we visited.
— Review left November 1, 2023
This was a wonderful trip - even better than I thought it could be. I learned so much about both countries, their history and present day living. Long was an excellent tour guide. He was always so thoughtful of everyone and particularly thoughtful to the ones that became ill during the trip. Of all my Road Scholar trips he’s been the best guide. All of the hotel accommodations were great, and the food was excellent! The highlights of the trip for me was the trip through the Hanoi market and cooking class, and then the tour of the Cu Chi tunnels. I enjoyed Cambodia but the killing fields, and torture camp left a pall over the country for me. Pol Pot was continually mentioned until we reached Siem Reap.
— Review left March 21, 2023
Great trip. A lot of walking and stairs, but the really strenuous, taxing things are optional. To use a 60s term, quite a mind expanding trip.
— Review left March 2, 2023
A fascinating and instructive program. Wonderful guide, small group, fast pace but as a result covered a lot in available time. Educational and instructive, learn a lot about history, politics, current conditions, and relationships between countries in the region.
— Review left December 21, 2022
I would never have understood the complex history of Vietnam and Cambodia as well as I do now without this 2 week exploration of these countries. And being there and meeting the people of today allows me to answer questions I’ve had about this area since the 1960s when it was in our news daily.
— Review left December 20, 2022
This was a wonderful trip. It was well organized and so educational. The accommodations and restaurants were exceptional and all of the field trips were really insightful. By nature of the countries, it was definitely more educational than "touristy", Both Vietnam and Cambodia have had very tragic pasts and some of the sights, such as the Killing Fields were quite somber but necessary in order to understand the history of these countries. The leaders did an excellent job of presenting their histories objectively but with great passion. I would highly recommend this trip for anyone with interest in this part of the world.the
— Review left November 22, 2022
you may share my evaluation
— Review left March 25, 2020
I would like to be able to save my User ID and Password so I don't have to go through that process every time I pull up the site. If that is already able to be done, I've missed it.
— Review left March 5, 2020
This was a great trip. Duong, our trip leader, was wonderful! The Vietnamese and Cambodian people were wonderful and welcoming of Americans. Some visits on the agenda are heartrending and emotional, but the resilience of the Vietnamese and Cambodian people is uplifting. Highly recommended!
NOTE: This trip occurred during the Corona virus outbreak, but I felt very comfortable during the trip and came away believing that travel in both countries is not unduly risky.
— Review left March 1, 2020
This was an excellent learning adventure for me of a totally different culture. Every day was another adventure in seeing and learning...even the sounds on the streets were different and exciting....the food was excellent.
— Review left February 27, 2020
This program is topnotch, regarding educational information conveyed, group leadership, sites visited, diversity of cultural experiences, accommodations and meals.
— Review left February 13, 2020
Road Scholar, you hit it out of the park again!! This was my third RS sponsored trip, and you will have me as a participant for life.
— Review left January 27, 2020
I submitted a review earlier, but I forgot to include a few points.
1. The visit to a silk farm in Cambodia was very disappointing. The owner seemed far more interested in our making donations than in teaching us about silk production. The silk she made was very low quality but very high-priced compared to the silk we found in other venues.
2. We did not get to the fishing village in Halong Bay - also very disappointing. The boat was hardly a traditional Vietnamese Junk as the agenda stated; however, it was a lovely boat ride and the crew was truly exceptional.
3. My son, who accompanied me on this trip, had to pay an extra $40 to Cambodian officials at the border to gain entry. Although he had four empty pages, one was for endorsements, and the official said he needed to pay an extra "visa fee." This in spite of the fact that the Cambodian visa only takes up one page.
4. Independently, some of the group attended a performance by the Bamboo Players. It was excellent and would be a better choice than the water puppet show. Both shows feature traditional music, which was a highlight of the trip for me.
5. I also very much enjoyed the traditional Cambodian dancing.
— Review left January 25, 2020
You will not get bored on the Road Scholar tours. The tour guides are very knowledgeable. From the time you arrive till you depart everything is taken care of. The accommodations are excellent and you will get a great variety of the local cuisine.
— Review left December 9, 2019
Our trip was exceptionally well organized and enjoyable and informative. Our leader, Long N, was a wonderful leader and true asset to our trip.
— Review left November 27, 2019
We were a little hesitant to go on an organized tour as we have usually traveled on our own, but we had a great experience on our first Road Scholar trip. The company pays attention to details and it shows in the organization. The educational experiences are a delightful addition to the usual tour. We highly recommend Road Scholar for your travel plans.
— Review left November 26, 2019
Just completed the "People of the Mekong" tour of Vietnam and Cambodia, and highly recommend it !!
— Review left November 23, 2019
This is an absolutely wonderful program. It includes educational, historical, cultural, and experiential opportunities throughout the journey. Ha Long Bay an Angkor Wat were initial areas of interest, but the other experiences were just as enriching as well. I returned with a greater understanding of this region of the world and am looking forward to my next travel opportunity.
— Review left November 22, 2019
The most difficult part of this adventure is traveling to the destination. However, it is all worth it for this incredible experience. Our Vietnamese guide, Quyen, stayed with the group throughout the entire trip which provided continuity for our group. The history, current events, experiences, food etc., exceeded expectations. Quyen took such good care of everyone making our comfort level very high in a unique culture.
Both Vietnam and Cambodia left an unforgettable impression and created a desire to learn more and keep up with current events related to both countries. Do not hesitate to take this trip. The travel is doable. Many went a day early which was very helpful after long travel times.
— Review left June 1, 2019
This trip exceeded all my expectations. An outstanding adventure!
— Review left March 29, 2019
Best trip ever! Quyen was the best tour leader ever! If you want to immerse yourself in the history, culture and people of Vietnam and Cambodia, you will love the trip. As an American I wanted to know more about the "American" War and the atrocities committed by Pol Pot. And the 1 1/2 days on a beautiful boat in Halong Bay will never be forgotten.
— Review left March 17, 2019
This truly was a trip of a lifetime. I highly recommend it to all US citizens
— Review left March 13, 2019
Just returned from a great trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, including Hanoi, Halong Bay, Saigon, Phnom Penh and Angkor Wat. Very well organized, ran smoothly, most informative and exciting. I will recommend it to anyone.
— Review left March 12, 2019
This was a fantastic and life-changing trip with a superb guide. The pace was fast in terms of having a lot of varied activities scheduled into the days. The participants were well-traveled, interesting and welcoming. As a suggestion, there should be an add-on to this trip such as Thailand and/or Hong Kong for diversity and contrast to Vietnam and Cambodia.
— Review left March 12, 2019
Vietnam and Cambodia are beautiful countries with much to share. The people are so wonderful and inviting and there is so much to learn, see and do. It's a trip for those who have no knowledge of the region or those who do. This was an amazing adventure!
— Review left March 9, 2019
The Road Scholar trip to Vietnam and Cambodia was a wonderful blend of education, entertainment, cultural appreciation, natural beauty and congeniality. It makes me want to see more of SE Asia!
— Review left February 27, 2019
This was my first Road Scholar trip and will be a hard act to follow. I am already researching the catalog for my next trip! Our tour leader, Quyen, was fantastic and Vietnam and Cambodia were fascinating countries to visit and learn more about. Highly recommended if you are an adventurous traveler interested in learning.
— Review left February 26, 2019
This trip was very well organized and enlightening. We saw a lot and learned a lot. For us the value exceeded the cost.
— Review left February 6, 2019
Road Scholar gave us an excellent and informative experience with the People of the Mekong from Halong Bay to Angkor Wat. Exceptionally planned and organized, we learned an immense amount of history and cultural development in Viet Nam and Cambodia. A very good value.
— Review left February 4, 2019
People of the Mekong is outstanding. Great itinerary, great execution. A must for Americans seeking a better understanding of Southeast Asia.
— Review left January 14, 2019
