The Mekong, Siem Reap & Phom Penh
............................................................................................................................................................................................................... THE MEKONG
The Mekong River begins in the Tibetan plateau, winding its way through China’s Yunnan province and the rainforests, plains and rice fields of five Southeast Asian countries before meeting the South China Sea. In terms of length, it’s the 12th largest river in the world, but in terms of historic, cultural and ecological richness - the Mekong has no equal. The sagas of ancient empires, colonial powers and modern conflicts have unfolded along her banks. And, through it all, the Mekong remains first and foremost a lifeline. Temples, trade routes and fishing villages in the river’s path are today untouched by time, just as the way of life they represent. And nowhere are the river’s riches more apparent than in the neighboring, but distinct countries of Vietnam and Cambodia.
The Vietnam of today is one of the most intriguing and dynamic countries in all of Asia. You’ll discover the ancient and the modern existing side by side in bustling Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, while legends of dragons beckon in the mists of Ha Long Bay. Sharing a border with Vietnam, Thailand and Laos, Cambodia boasts its own distinctive Khmer culture. On your 7-night river cruise, visit floating markets, rainforests and Buddhist monasteries; ride an oxcart and a trishaw; try your hand at the delicate craft of rice-paper making. And most importantly, experience the unique hospitality of this singular part of the world.
SIEM REAP
A 3-night stay in Siem Reap, Cambodia provides a gateway to one of the most acclaimed archaeological sites in the world — the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor. Guided tours take passengers to the nearby temples of the Khmer empire, the great civilization that thrived from the 9th-15th century C.E. Highlights include Angkor Thom, the former capital city of the Khmer, noted for the elaborate stone faces of the Bayon Temple, the delicately carved Terrace of the Leper King and the Elephant Terrace. Travel to the rural countryside to Banteay Srei, a small but exquisitely-carved temple dedicated to
...................................................................... Included Features
the Hindi god Shiva, and known as the “Jewel of Khmer art.” Wander through Ta Prohm, nearly overtaken by the jungle, famous for the trees that have intertwined themselves
into the crumbling ruins.
Of course, passengers will also visit the most iconic of all Khmer temples — Angkor Wat, the immense limestone complex that has come to symbolize Cambodia itself.
PHNOM PENH
Founded in the early 15th century, the name Phnom Penh is derived from Wat Phnom, the “Temple of the Mountain” that overlooks the city. Known in the early 20th century as the “Pearl of Asia” for its beautiful French colonial architecture, this sprawling metropolis on the banks of the Mekong, Tonle Sap and Bassac rivers is Cambodia’s capital and largest city, as well as its economic hub. An overnight stay in Phnom Penh affords the opportunity to experience the city’s cultural highlights, including the Royal Palace, home of Cambodia’s King. Visit the spectacular Silver Pagoda and National Museum, housing collections of artifacts embodying the brilliance and richness of Khmer culture. Travel to the infamous Killing Fields and the Khmer Rouge’s S21 detention centre. In the evening, mingle with the many international visitors strolling along the river front, or perhaps venture to one of the city’s acclaimed restaurants or night spots.
»
Royal Palace, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Cambodian Monk
AMAWATERWAYS.CO.UK | 6 3 Floating Market on the Mekong
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76 |
Page 77 |
Page 78 |
Page 79 |
Page 80