Planning a River Cruise to Viet Nam and Cambodia

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Message Submitted by travelnuts on Mon, 11/12/2012 - 06:52
We are an active couple, 70/75 yrs, planning a river cruise to Viet Nam and Cambodia with possible extensions to Thailand/Laos. At present time, looking at AMA Waterways and Vantage Travel. Does anyone have other suggestions, comments, praises, warnings? What about time of year to travel? How is travel to this area for older pax? Do not have mobility issues other than starting to move a bit slower. Concerned about getting on/off ship along river as no docks. Does anyone have experience re this? Any help/comments would be appreciated. Thanks

Reply Submitted by Adventuregirl on Thu, 11/15/2012 - 12:52

Hi: I haven't taken this river cruise, but have spent time in Vietnam. You might think about signing up for a program that starts in Hanoi and ends in Ho Chi Minh City. You can do a pre-trip to HaLong Bay which would be a good way to ease into the country especially after a long flight. I feel there is much more to do in HCM city and you might want to schedule extra time there. Not only is the shopping good, but you can visit the CuChi Tunnels, the Cau Dai Temple -- did I mention shopping?

As for time of the year to travel, check www.weatherbase.com and take a good look at the precipitation section. You might not want to go in the rainy season. I would also stay away from the 10 days around the Vietnamese Tet Festival as a lot of places close while people return to their home villages to celebrate with their families. The dates for Tet varyfrom year to year.