Divya had been contemplating a visit to Vietnam and Cambodia for quite some time. Finally taking a break from work, she embarked on a solo adventure to immerse herself in the rich culture, history, and architecture of these two countries. Divya opted for a 6-night, 7-day tour package from Fred and Fuzzys, allowing her to experience the best of both worlds – exploring the temple ruins of Cambodia and indulging in the unique heritage of Vietnam!
Trip Type: Solo
Trip Duration: 6 Nights, 7 Days
Agent Name: Tanish Tours And Travels
Inclusions: Accommodation and All Meals
Exclusions: Transfers (Rented Car) and Entry Tickets
For many, travel serves as an escape from the monotonous routine, but for Divya, it is a journey of self-discovery and growth. Each adventure abroad provides her with invaluable lessons about the world, its people, and most importantly, herself. The anticipation of boarding a flight to her next destination, the joy of witnessing the city’s most prominent landmarks, the eagerness to connect with fellow travelers and locals, the sense of belonging after spending a few days immersing herself in a new city, and the heartache when it is time to bid farewell – these emotions encapsulate the essence of her travel experiences.
Divya firmly believes that each individual possesses a unique travel style. Some are drawn to luxury, others prefer spontaneous excursions, while some opt to embrace the uncertainties of the journey. She proudly identifies herself as “A Nomad With A Plan.” Embracing the spontaneity of travel, Divya meticulously researches and sketches a rough outline of her trips, allowing her to savor popular tourist attractions while immersing herself in the local culture of each destination.
This is why Fred and Fuzzys resonates with Divya on a profound level. Their incredible flexibility and customization options enable her to plan and curate her trips according to her personal preferences. Whether she chooses to book her entire journey or select specific segments, Fred and Fuzzys empowers her to design a travel experience tailored to her desires.
Finally, the day arrived when Divya could escape the confines of her work and embark on a long-awaited solo trip to Vietnam and Cambodia. These two breathtaking countries had occupied a prominent position on her bucket list for as long as she could remember. The allure of visiting the magnificent Hindu temple complex – Angkor Wat – left her awe-struck, and she yearned to unravel the chilling historical tales woven into the fabric of these nations.
Fuelled by her inspiration, she embarked on her solo adventure to Vietnam and Cambodia. Her itinerary included exploring the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh in Vietnam, as well as embracing the cultural offerings of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap in Cambodia.
A Glimpse Into My 7-Day Tour of Vietnam and Cambodia
Let me provide you with a sneak peek into the various highlights of my solo trip to Vietnam and Cambodia:
Day 1 | Ho Chi Minh: Immersing Myself in the City’s Charms With My Hostel Companion
Upon my arrival in the morning, I reached the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh. After being transported to my accommodation, the New Saigon Hostel on Bui Vien Street, I took some time to rest and rejuvenate. Later that evening, accompanied by my Japanese roommate, I embarked on a captivating journey through the local life of Vietnam. We explored the outskirts of the city, catching a glimpse of the striking Reunification Palace, indulging in a little shopping at the lively Ben Thanh market, and immersing ourselves in the bustling atmosphere of Bui Vien Street, affectionately known as Pub Street. To my surprise and delight, I coincidentally stumbled upon an old college friend, which added an extra layer of enjoyment to the night.
Day 2 | Ho Chi Minh: A Captivating Adventure in the Mekong Delta
The itinerary for the day centered around a visit to the enchanting Mekong Delta. Accompanied by a diverse group of fellow travelers, we embarked on our journey, starting with a visit to the tranquil Vinh Trang Temple, a serene Mahayana Buddhist Temple that emanated a sense of serenity and tranquility.
After our temple visit, we made our way to the dock, eagerly anticipating our boat ride to the Mekong Delta. I was filled with anticipation for the exciting activities that awaited us. As we glided through the marshy waters and dense mangroves, our senses were invigorated. Upon arrival, we were greeted with a refreshing herbal tea, delectable tropical fruits, and a mesmerizing musical performance. Once rejuvenated, we proceeded to a captivating bee farm, where we witnessed the intricate process of honey-making and reveled in the delightful flavors of freshly harvested honey. Our adventure continued as we hopped into kayaks and gracefully paddled through stunning forests and lush mangroves, our adrenaline reaching new heights. Our journey culminated at the Coconut Candy workshop, where our group marveled at the production of these delectable treats and indulged in purchasing some to savor later.
In Vietnam, I had the pleasure of experiencing some of the most extraordinary vegetarian cuisine I have ever encountered. Every morsel was a sensation, and I relished in the flavors with utmost delight. Following a scrumptious traditional Vietnamese lunch, we meandered through the picturesque island, encountering a myriad of exotic trees, flowers, and wildlife. As we glided back towards the city, we reveled in the tranquility of the river’s calm waters while treating ourselves to refreshing coconut water.
Day 3 | Ho Chi Minh: Exploring the Emotive History of Vietnam
After a serene day spent amidst the wonders of the Mekong Delta, it was now time to delve into the historical sites of Ho Chi Minh City and gain a deeper understanding of their profound past. Our journey commenced with a visit to the Reunification Palace, a remarkable structure that juxtaposed opulence with a readiness for unexpected conflict. Vietnam had endured numerous wars throughout its history, including conflicts with the Chinese, Americans, and various others. Consequently, they remained ever-prepared for potential attacks.
On the following day, our group embarked on a visit to the War Remnants Museum, where we were exposed to a striking array of military vehicles and aircraft. Additionally, we embarked on a captivating photographic odyssey that provided a poignant glimpse into the hardships endured by the Vietnamese people. It was truly disheartening to witness the enduring scars inflicted by the ruthless American forces upon the Vietnamese soldiers, who were forcefully dislodged from the dense forests.
Concluding our itinerary, we made our way to the Church and Central Post Office. These architectural wonders not only stood as timeless structures, but also showcased an internal market where one could procure delightful mementos.
Regrettably, due to my impending departure for Phnom Penh, I was unable to experience a key landmark in Ho Chi Minh City: the Cu Chi Tunnels. These subterranean passages served as a sanctuary for countless Vietnamese soldiers seeking refuge from the relentless onslaught of US attacks.
Day 4 | Phnom Penh: Unveiling Cambodia’s Historical Tapestry, Artistic Splendor, and Traditional Dances
After enduring a lengthy bus journey to Phnom Penh, fatigue had taken hold of my weary limbs. However, determined not to squander precious time idling about, I resolved to explore the city at my own leisurely pace. A resplendent abode, the Sla Boutique Hostel, became my home away from home. And so, I ventured forth to behold the awe-inspiring expanse of the Royal Palace, its gilded rooftops casting a mesmerizing spectacle against the azure sky.
After visiting the majestic palace, I proceeded to explore the National Museum, Wat Phnom, and meandered through the bustling city in a Tuk Tuk. Following that, I embarked on a Hop-On Hop-Off bus to venture into two harrowing sites – The Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. The distressing stories behind the mass killings, where countless Cambodians endured torture and lost their lives in tribute to Pol Pot’s utopian ideology, deeply moved me, causing tears to stream down my face.
To lift my spirits, I concluded my day by attending a captivating traditional Cambodian Dance performance organized by the Cambodian Living Arts foundation at the National Museum. These dances were a true testament to the artistry and splendor of Cambodian culture.
Day 5 | Siem Reap: Delightful Tuk Tuk Rides & an Enchanting Sunset
I embarked on an early morning bus journey from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Upon arriving in Siem Reap, I settled into the city’s finest hostel – Siem Reap Hostel. After unwinding and engaging in conversations with fellow adventurers at the hostel, I took a Tuk Tuk to the Angkor Wat ticket-booking center. Securing a one-day pass for the following day, I then proceeded to witness the awe-inspiring sunset behind the Bakheng Mountain, leaving me absolutely spellbound.
Upon returning to the city, I immersed myself in the Night Market, indulging in an extensive shopping spree. Later on, I leisurely strolled along the lively Pub Street before retracing my steps back to the hostel for some well-deserved rest.
Day 6 | Siem Reap: Embracing the Sunrise at Angkor Wat & Reveling in Street Performances
Today, I had to rise with the sun at the ungodly hour of 4 AM to witness the majestic sunrise over the magnificent Angkor Wat temple. The sight was so awe-inspiring that it completely obliterated any traces of sleep from my mind. I found myself gazing up at the sky with utter amazement, my mouth agape in astonishment. Even though there were clouds obstructing the view, it did nothing to diminish the incredible beauty of the scene, prompting me to capture hundreds of HDR photographs.
As the sun gradually climbed higher into the sky, I wandered through the vast temple complex, marveling at the intricate carvings and ancient structures. I couldn’t help but imagine what these temples must have been like during their prime.
My next destination within the Angkor Wat complex was the enigmatic Bayon Temple. This temple holds a central position of dispute, with some asserting its status as a Buddhist temple while others claim it to be dedicated to Brahma. The structure itself possesses a captivating smile that entices travelers from far and wide.
Finally, I made my way to Angkor Thom, famously known for the sight of a tree entwined within a temple, which captivated audiences worldwide in the Hollywood film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, starring Angelina Jolie. Witnessing the power of nature as it enveloped and consumed the entire structure, blurring the line between stone and tree, was truly an extraordinary experience.
I spent the entire day immersed in these awe-inspiring ruins, feeling both humbled and inspired. After a short and rejuvenating nap at the hostel, I ventured out to Pub Street with a few fellow travelers. I was intrigued by the lively pubs that lined the roadside. Initially, it felt strange watching people dance in the middle of the street, but eventually, I let go of inhibitions and embraced the liberating fun. It was a night filled with laughter and craziness.
On Day 7, as I bid farewell to Siem Reap and headed home, I welcomed a much-needed moment of relaxation. I found solace by the pool at the hostel, indulging in a good book and sipping on delicious daiquiris. After carefully packing the thoughtful gifts I had purchased for my loved ones, I embarked on my journey to the airport. Following a lengthy layover in Kuala Lumpur, I finally touched down in Mumbai.
My solo journey through Vietnam and Cambodia was truly remarkable, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Fred and Fuzzys for their invaluable assistance in planning this trip. Words cannot express the profound sadness I felt upon returning home. Whenever I come back from a trip, I relish the opportunity to share my travel stories and inspire others to embark on their own adventures. In fact, I shared so much about Vietnam and Cambodia with a friend that she couldn’t resist the allure and promptly booked her own trip without hesitation.
The Most Memorable Experiences: My entire journey was an absolute thrill! However, if I had to choose just one, witnessing the sun rise over the majestic Angkor Wat temples was undoubtedly the pinnacle of my trip. Additionally, although somber, my visit to the Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields left a profound and humbling impact on me.
What I Regret Missing: I deeply regret not being able to explore the fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels.
Valuable Advice for Future Travelers:
- While Vietnam offers visa on arrival, it is imperative to register for the visa in advance and obtain an approval letter from the authorities. Ensure you complete this formality at least one week before embarking on your journey.
- Ho Chi Minh City boasts numerous motorbikes with drivers, presenting a more budget-friendly alternative to traditional taxis. Consider trying these exhilarating motorbike rides!
- If, like me, you are a solo traveler, hostels are an excellent accommodation option. They provide an opportunity to meet and forge friendships with fellow travelers from all corners of the globe. Plus, they’re easy on the wallet!
- In Cambodia, US Dollars are widely accepted, eliminating the need to carry the local currency.
- Bargaining skills are essential for an affordable trip to Cambodia. Whether it’s negotiating with tuk-tuks or shopping, be assertive and don’t hesitate to haggle!
- Purchase your Angkor Wat temple tour ticket a day in advance to save precious time by avoiding the long queue at the ticket counter the next day. Trust me, this will prove invaluable, especially if you need to wake up at 3:30 AM for the sunrise!
- Plan your visit to Angkor Wat meticulously, as the site is vast and it’s easy to become disoriented or confused.
- While there are various transportation options available, I highly recommend utilizing a tuk-tuk for getting around Angkor Wat. It’s a cost-effective and efficient way to navigate the area.
Already fantasizing about embarking on your own solo adventure to Vietnam and Cambodia? Stop dreaming and start planning! Book your unforgettable Cambodia and Vietnam vacation with Fred and Fuzzys, and immerse yourself in the splendid heritage, poignant history, and breathtaking attractions. Happy Travels!
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