Combining the ancient with the modern, Cambodia captivates the hearts of countless wanderers around the world. And let us not forget the captivating allure of Vietnam that enhances the enchantment of the South China Sea. For those with a penchant for art, history, and culture, Cambodia and Vietnam offer the ultimate holiday escape. Raman and Sudhanshu had the same idea when they decided to embark on an exhilarating vacation with their wives. Read further to discover the ideal way to spend 11 days in Vietnam and Cambodia and make the most of your time.
Vietnam has been firmly planted on my travel wishlist for quite some time. It is a nation brimming with historical significance, breathtaking landscapes, cultural marvels, and incredible cuisine. So when my friend Sudhanshu asked me to plan a trip, I happily accepted the invitation, but included Cambodia in our itinerary. We began scouring for travel packages and stumbled upon Fred and Fuzzys. After conducting some research, we made the decision to go for it. And thus, our journey to one of the most exquisite destinations in the world began.
Particulars of Our Adventurous Journey to Vietnam and Cambodia
Type of Trip: Journey with FriendsCost: INR 64,135 per individualNumber of Individuals: 4Duration: 10 Nights and 11 DaysInclusions: Accommodation, Breakfast, Airport Transfers, Airfare, VISA, Tours and SightseeingExclusions: Lunch, Dinner, Airfare, Personal Expenses
A Preview of Our 11-Day Itinerary in Vietnam
Day 1: Arrival in HanoiDay 2: Exploring Ho Chi Minh CityDay 3: Cruising Through the Magnificence of Halong BayDay 4: Disembarkation from the Cruise and Transfer to Da NangDay 5: Sightseeing in Da NangDay 6: Flight to Siem ReapDay 7: Touring the Splendor of the Angkor RegionDay 8: Visit to Banteay SreiDay 9: Bus Transfer to Phnom PenhDay 10: Exploring the Sights of Phnom PenhDay 11: Departure back home
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March Weather in Vietnam and Cambodia
The Cambodian climate in March tends to be a bit warm, yet not excessively humid. The dry season, which lasts from October to April, is perfect for tourists who wish to relish tours and sightseeing. The temperature can soar up to 35 degrees Celsius, although the nights offer cooler relief with an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius.
Meanwhile, Vietnam experiences cooler weather in March with temperatures dropping to as low as 17 degrees Celsius. The dry and winter season commences in November and extends until April. This is an excellent time to plan a trip to Vietnam if you desire to avoid the heat and humidity. During our research for our 11-day Vietnam itinerary, we were already well aware of these conditions.
Unforgettable Moments from Our 11-Day Trip to Vietnam and Cambodia
If you find yourself pondering the question of how to make the most of 11 days in Vietnam and Cambodia, then you have come to the right place. I recently returned from a marvelous vacation in Cambodia with my friends and my wife. It was truly an extraordinary experience, right from the moment we set foot in Hoi An until we bid farewell and flew back home.
1. Halong Bay: A Memorable Day at Sea
Our journey through Vietnam began with an enchanting day spent cruising through Halong Bay. What better way to experience the beauty of Vietnam than onboard a luxurious cruise? Missing out on an overnight stay in Halong Bay would be unthinkable. Our chosen cruise, the Legend White Dolphin Cruise, provided us with an exceptional experience. We indulged in a delectable lunch while marveling at the breathtaking seascape views. Our itinerary included visits to the Sung Sot Cave and Titov Island, where we captured stunning photographs. As evening descended, a delightful sunset party awaited us on the sundeck. The day concluded perfectly as we retired to our cabins for a well-deserved rest.
Awakening on a cruise is an adventure in itself. Our morning began with invigorating Tai Chi exercises, followed by a sumptuous breakfast on the deck. We then embarked on a kayaking excursion and explored the charming Ba Hang fishing village. However enjoyable, the afternoon soon arrived, marking the end of our blissful cruise experience.
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2. Da Nang: A Journey Amongst the Hills
After a rejuvenating rest at our hotel in Da Nang, we set off on another adventure. Our driver picked us up in the morning to embark on a scenic drive to the mesmerizing Ba Na Hills. The cable car ride offered us awe-inspiring vistas that left us speechless. Among the plethora of activities one can indulge in Vietnam, I highly recommend the cable car experience in Da Nang. We were treated to panoramic views of the enchanting Vong Nguyet hills and the renowned orchid gardens.
Later in the day, we visited the illustrious Golden Hands Bridge and captured extraordinary photographs. As the sun began to set, we ventured to the Read Beach Bay for some shopping. This bustling location proved to be the perfect place to find unique souvenirs.
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3. Hoi An: Unveiling the City
Upon our arrival in Hoi An, we found solace in our hotel, indulging in a day of relaxation. As the sun welcomed the next morning, we eagerly laced up our walking shoes, embarking on a fascinating journey through the city. If your itinerary allows for an extensive 11-day stay in Vietnam, the Hoi An City Tour is an absolute must. Prepare to immerse yourself in the essence of Vietnam as you tread the lively streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Amidst the chaotic traffic pulsating with vivid hues, you will encounter enchanting colonial structures, street vendors peddling their wares, and traditional shops lining the bustling avenues.
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4. Angkor: A Tapestry of Sights
After relishing unforgettable experiences in Vietnam, it was time to embrace our next adventure. Boarding a flight to Siem Reap, we savored a leisurely day of respite. Awakened by the excitement of exploration, we eagerly embarked on a captivating sightseeing escapade in Angkor. The mystique of the Angkor temples, forever etched in our minds since gracing the silver screen as the backdrop to Angelina Jolie’s Tomb Raider, made this leg of our journey highly anticipated. From immersing ourselves in the remnants of ancient ruins to marveling at the grandeur of the Bayon Temple, each moment was an exquisite revelation. However, the pinnacle of our expedition was undoubtedly the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat. Behold this architectural marvel, a testament to ingenuity, and undoubtedly one of the finest attractions to explore in Siem Reap.
5. Siem Reap: Unveiling the Enigmatic Banteay Srei
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Embark on a voyage to Siem Reap, where the wonders of Banteay Srei await to captivate your heart and soul.
The following day, we arose bright and early and embarked on our journey to Banteay Srei Temple. This ancient sanctuary is dedicated to the deity Shiva and showcases an array of exquisite engravings and embellishments. Adjacent to the temple lies a captivating village that is undoubtedly worth exploring. The site itself warrants an entire day of exploration due to its abundance of intriguing sights and discoveries.
6. Phnom Penh: A Peek Into History
In accordance with our carefully planned 11-day Vietnam Itinerary, we allocated the final days of our trip to Phnom Penh, where we immersed ourselves in various museums and memorials. These excursions allowed us to delve deep into the history of Cambodia and witness awe-inspiring architectural marvels. From the Tuol Sleng Prison Museum to the Buddhist memorial at Choeung Ek, each location exuded an inexplicable sense of surrealism. Our journey spanning 11 days across Cambodia and Vietnam left an indelible mark on us and will be cherished for years to come.
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The Accommodations We Experienced in Vietnam and Cambodia
During our expedition, we had the pleasure of staying at several remarkable hotels. Apart from the unforgettable time we had aboard the Legend White Dolphin Cruise, our other accommodations were equally delightful. In Hanoi, we resided at the Era hotel and the Kiman Hoi An Hotel & Spa. These accommodations provided ample space and were equipped with excellent amenities. In Siem Reap, we opted for the Angkor Holiday Hotel and the Samnang Laor Phnom Penh Hotel, both of which left us thoroughly satisfied. We wholeheartedly recommend these hotels but advise booking in advance to secure the best deals.
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Culinary Delights in Cambodia and Vietnam
One of the most enthralling aspects of exploring a new country is indulging in its local cuisine. Cambodia boasts a plethora of options for non-vegetarians, although a few eateries catering to vegetarians and Indians can also be found. The delectable Fish Amok and Lap Khmer are among the popular dishes in Cambodia. Vietnam, too, offers a tempting array of delicacies. Be sure to savor the Banh Mi sandwich during your visit. While the country also offers a diverse range of cuisines, make sure not to miss out on the tantalizing local specialties.
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Traveling Tips From Our Team to You
- Conduct thorough research and create a shortlist of the destinations you wish to visit
- Ensure you carry an adequate amount of cash with you for any unforeseen emergencies
- Do not forget to pack your umbrella and comfortable walking shoes
- Remember to take a bottle of water every time you venture outside
Frequently Asked Questions About Planning an 11-day Trip to Vietnam and Cambodia
What is the ideal time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia?
If you wish to avoid extreme heat, November to April would be an ideal time to plan an extended trip to Cambodia and Vietnam.
What is Vietnam renowned for?
In addition to its rich history and diverse culture, Vietnam is well-known for its museums and temples. Make sure to include a few in your itinerary.
How long is the flight from Cambodia to Vietnam?
Depending on weather conditions, the flight duration from Cambodia to Vietnam is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
How many days should I allocate for Siem Reap?
We recommend setting aside a minimum of 2 to 3 days for your stay in Siem Reap, as it is one of the finest destinations in Cambodia.
