HEART OF THE MEKONG TOUR

Saigon, Mekong River Cruise , Phnom Penh, Siem Reap.

SS
Soul Sanctuary Retreats
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25 reviews
Jan 15 - 24, 2023
Group size: 6 - 10
HEART OF THE MEKONG TOUR
Saigon, Mekong River Cruise , Phnom Penh, Siem Reap.

Soul Sanctuary Retreats
  • Email address verified
  • Facebook verified
25 reviews

Jan 15 - 24, 2023
Group size: 6 - 10

About this trip

From the heights of the Himalayas to the coasts of the South China Sea, the Mekong River is a pulsating lifeline winding its way through the lush lowlands of Cambodia and Vietnam. Between Saigon and Siem Reap, life revolves around the Mekong. It’s where local communities, ecosystems and agriculture thrive, it fascinates people and changes their lives. 


The best way to experience Mekong culture is along its waterways. Life has played out here for thousands of years so join us to discover an authentic slice of Vietnam and Cambodia and enjoy the region’s rich history and traditions.


Experience the unique city life of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh), Vietnams largest city.  The city pulsates with energy unlike any other city in Vietnam.  Skyscrapers tower above old French museums while swarms of motorbikes hum down the streets. The city’s buzzy rush is exciting and infectious. Then for a change of pace climb aboard a traditional rice barge as we meander along the Mekong River watching the hustle and bustle of daily life on the water and riverbanks.


Moving towards our next destination, fascinating Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia.  Phnom Penh’s streets bustle with charm, plentiful history, architecture, food and culture, all wrapped up in the hectic, vibrant atmosphere you’d expect from a major Asian city. 


We will conclude our adventure in Siem Reap where we explore the UNESCO World Heritage listed Angkor.. Explore Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world in the light of early dawn, gaze into the stone faces carved at Bayon temple and walk through the jungle-choked temples at Ta Prohm.


Join us for our adventure and create some amazing memories with our Heart of the Mekong Tour.


Tour Prices

TWIN SHARE - $ 2,900 AUD*

SINGLE ROOM - $ 3,600 AUD*


*Tour Price is land price only and does not include return airfares


This tour has an initial $500AUD deposit with the remainder to be paid 75 days prior to departure (1st November 2022). All payments made by Credit Card will incur a small processing fee.


Balance of monies can be made direct to the following bank account:


Name: Soul Sanctuary Retreats

BSB: 082-445

Account Number: 249497104

Terms & Conditions

* Up until 75 days before the start of the tour a $500 non-refundable deposit will be retained.  

* For between 75 days and 45 days before the start of the tour, 50% of the final payment (including the non refundable deposit) will be forfeited.  

* For less than 45 days or for no shows the entire amount will be forfeited as we would have already had to pay for accommodation, transport and activities, and this money will not be returned to us.  

* Once the tour has commenced no monies will be returned to you.  

* Travel Insurance is compulsory. Guests must ensure that have appropriate Travel Insurance policies in place prior to departure. 

* You are responsible for checking all testing and proof of vaccination requirements for the airlines or vessel operator/s you travel with and all countries you travel to and transit through.  For more information refer to Smart Traveller website 

* This Tour requires a moderate level of fitness - there is walking, steep stairs, uneven roads and getting on & off boats.

* Sites are large and sometimes hot, you may need to walk several kilometres around a single site.  

Arrival & Departure Information

Arrival 

Arrival is the 15th January 2023 to  Tan Son Nhat International Airport  Saigon. The Hotel is approximately 45 mins from Airport.


At the time of writing this there were a few airlines flying direct from Sydney to Ho Chi Min City/Saigon. 


Accommodation on Arrival : Edenstar Saigon Hotel

Address: 38 Bui Thi Xuan, Ben Thanh ward, Distric 1


Please note, there is no reason to arrive early for this trip as there are no planned activities on the first day. It has been included just for you to arrive and settle in.


Departure

Departure is from Siem Reap International airport.The airport is 30 mins from the hotel. Siem Reap International airport is small and easy to navigate


At the time of writing this there are currently no direct flights from Siem Reap to Australia. The return flight will require a stop in either Singapore/Kuala Lumpur, Saigon or Bangkok.


What’s included

  • Accommodation
    9 Nights Accommodation
  • Airport transfers
    to/from airport and hotel by private vehicle on arrival January 15 and departure day 24 January
  • Meals
    Breakfast and some lunches and 1 dinner as per itinerary
  • Transport
    Private vehicle transport throughout unless specified in the itinerary
  • River cruise
    Cruise the Mekong River, to be shared with other guests -1 night-Full board
  • Entrance Fees
    All sightseeing and entrance fees as per mentioned in Itinerary
  • City Tours
    City tours of Saigon, Mekong River, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap
  • Tour Guides
    English speaking guide during tours

What’s not included

  • International Airfares
    Tour price does not include your airfare. These must be booked and paid for yourself
  • Airport transfer
    If arriving before the 15th January 2023 or departing after the 25th January 2023
  • Entry Visa Fees
    Vietman visas must be completed online prior to retreat (according to the nationality of traveller). Cambodian Visa is completed on arrival to Cambodia
  • Personal spending money
    Including for lunches/dinners and drinks not included in Itinerary
  • Tour Guide Tips
    Tip for our tour guide, driver etc. We suggest $20 AUD per person per day and collect this currency at the start of our tour. Ie: $180 AUD. (this does not included tipping for spa treatments or meals

Available Packages

Twin Share

Twin Share 

This room rate is per person in a room sharing with 2 separate beds. This tour has a $500 deposit. You can nominate someone to share with on the registration form. 


If you don't nominate someone we will do our best to partner you up with someone. However, if we are unable to find you a roommate the single room rate will apply, we hope you understand.

A$2,900
Deposit: A$500
Single Room

Single Room

This tour has a $500 Deposit


A$3,600
Deposit: A$500

Itinerary

Day 1 - January 15 2023
Saigon

We welcome you at the airport and our driver will transfer you to our hotel.


I will meet you at the hotel to welcome you and help you check-in.


Today is a free day for you to settle in and either relax around the roof top pool or explore the streets around our hotel. 


Overnight in Saigon-Meals N/A


Accommodation: Edenstar Saigon Hotel

Address: 38 Bui Thi Xuan, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1


Please note - There is no need to arrive before the 15 January as there are no planned activities.


Your Organizer


SS
Soul Sanctuary Retreats
25 reviews
Travelling through Asia can be a little daunting at first. Language & cultures of each country can be vastly different. Soul Sanctuary Retreats specialise in fully escorted retreats throughout Asia. We have local drivers and English speaking guides in each location helping us navigate.

Reviews

DF
I had a wonderful day doing the textured art class with great people and a beautiful location followed by a relaxing lunch. Would thoroughly recommend this class and Renae had everything organised perfectly.
By Donna F for SOLD OUT -Textured Art Class on Apr 01, 2024
Was a great art class. Easy to follow instructions and fun to do. Shared also with a fabulous group of ladies. Thanks Renae for organising.
By Lynette Q for SOLD OUT -Textured Art Class on Mar 25, 2024
Thanks Lynette, I have to say its been my favourite creative event so far. Maddie was so lovely from Sip, Paint & Create. So glad you enjoyed the class, Renae
By Soul Sanctuary Retreats on Mar 25, 2024
SS
It was a particularly hot (38C) day. The air conditioning was appallingly overwhelmed, the food was at room temp, not good for the pana cotta, the bread on the cucumber sandwiches was stale and the requested butter for the scones was fluid. On a positive note the salmon blinis were delish as was the soft shell crab open sandwich. My chai tea was very tasty. The company was fun with lots of giggles and Renae her usual generous, accommodating host.
By Kerrie S for SOLD OUT High-Tea with Soul Sanctuary Retreats 11am-1pm on Feb 26, 2024
Ok Kerrie wasn't it a shockingly hot day for a High Tea. Agree with your description of the food, such a shame that most was hit and miss. (I Loved my soft shell crab sandwiches too) I always welcome feedback so I know what to book and where to book my events in the future. So glad you and your sister could make it, It was nice to see most of my original travel girls laughing and chatting again in the same room. See you again soon, Renae
By Soul Sanctuary Retreats on Feb 27, 2024
SS
I had a wonderful time, another lovely get together sipping bubbly and enjoying the night with some wonderful women.
By Teresa T for Sip & Style Evening on Dec 04, 2023
Thanks Teresa for joining me 🫶🏽
By Soul Sanctuary Retreats on Dec 04, 2023
SS
Had a wonderful time...nice to catchup with old and new friends ❤️
By Julie R for Mandala Class with Bella Rose Art 10am-1pm on Dec 01, 2023
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