Journey through Vietnam & Cambodia

Owner, Amie OBrien’s adventure from the vast Mekong River to of the awe-inspiring temples of Siem Reap to Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam.

There is nothing more captivating than experiencing a destination for the first time. In this, my inaugural journey to this part of the world, I found myself in a state of awe and wonder. The regions we explored, Vietnam and Cambodia in particular, proved to be both humbling and utterly fascinating.

Cruising the Mekong

We each hold onto those coveted bucket list experiences, and this was undoubtedly one of mine! Aqua Expeditions stands out as a trailblazer in boutique luxury expedition cruises, particularly in exploring remote and distinctive destinations. Their impeccable fusion of luxury and adventure has always captivated me, and I can confidently affirm they executed it flawlessly.

The ship itself exuded intimacy and beauty, showcasing sophisticated design and a profound connection to its surroundings.

The service was nothing short of impeccable and deeply personal—a reflection of genuine hospitality and nature of the people who live in the Mekong Delta region.

DAY 1

Exploring Bin Thanh on two wheels, a quaint fishing village embraced by water, was a remarkable experience. Amidst our biking adventure, we immersed ourselves in the local market, engaged with the friendly residents, delved into their way of life, and were graciously welcomed with freshly picked mangoes from a family's garden.

DAY 2

Cruising on a skiff along Bassac Canal brought us to Chau Doc, where the excitement peaked with our first-ever rickshaw ride to the local (and way busier!) market. Wrapping up our Chau Doc adventure, we ventured to Long Son Pagoda atop Sam Mountain, immersing ourselves in the tranquil ambiance of the Buddhist Temple.

Day 3

Jumping back on our bikes, we glided through Koh Oknha Tey, stopping at the local school to meet the very enthusiastic children then setting our course for "silk island." Here, we delved into the intricate world of silk production, discovering the skilled artists who transformed raw materials into stunning patterned fabrics. Later, we stumbled upon a wedding celebration and with their gracious permission were able to observe some of the festivities! Before heading back to the boat we had a small celebration of our own, stopping at a local watering hole for a refreshing cold beer to beat the heat! Today ended with an incredible sunset cocktail party on a secluded and beautiful beach where my husband and I toasted to our last night on the river and celebrated our adventure with the friends we met along the way!

The Temples of Siem Reap

Picture this: Walking through the pitch dark with just your flashlights through dense forest, you know you are heading to Angkor Wat - one of the most majestic temples in the world. It’s eerily quiet because your guide has led you in the back way, no one else around. You emerge from the forest as light just barely touches the sky and see the towers for the first time. The sight is nothing short of breathtaking.

We spent three days exploring the ruins, fascinated by the history and grandeur. Timing proved serendipitous, considering the current state of tourism—hovering at a mere 15% of its pre-COVID levels. Even though pockets of crowds lingered in some areas, there were moments when we felt as though we had the entire place to ourselves.

Cambodia Culture

Delving into different cultures and connecting with people is, hands down, one of my favorite aspects of globetrotting. We were graciously invited into the modest home and farm of a local family. Their hospitality shone as they treated us to a spectacular sunset dinner, generously sharing not only their table but also insights into their way of life. It was our way of giving back and immersing ourselves in the local culture.

Concluding our adventure, we paid a visit to a Buddhist temple, learning about their religion and gaining insights into the lives of the monks. The pinnacle of the experience was receiving a traditional Buddhist Blessing from one of the monks—an incredibly beautiful and spiritually enriching moment.

Hanoi Vietnam

While I've always considered myself resistant to culture shock due to my extensive travels, this city had a surprise in store. The traffic here was absolutely mind-blowing! The incessant honking, the sea of scooters, and the relentless hustle and bustle—it was an incredible spectacle that left an indelible mark on my memory, I LOVED this city.

In the brief time we had, we squeezed in as much as possible, but what resonated the most were two standout experiences. The walking tour through the Old Quarter left a profound impact, offering a humbling glimpse into the lives of those who inhabit the narrow back alleyways. Additionally, visiting the home of a water puppet artist proved to be an extraordinary encounter. He graciously toured us through his workshop and treated us to a private show—a truly special and memorable moment.

Ha Long Bay Vietnam

This place is hauntingly beautiful. Initially expecting disappointment with less-than-favorable weather, we were pleasantly surprised to find that it only heightened the mystery and magic of the surroundings.

Two nights we cruised the bay in awe of the rock formations protruding from the water and exploring the floating fishing villages hidden around the inlets.

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Journey through Vietnam & Cambodia

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