Mekong cruise Saigon - Phnompenh by Le cochinchine 3 days

Destination: Ho chi minh - Caibe - Can tho - Chau doc - Phnompenh
Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
Tour code: MCV4

TECHNIQUE of LECOCHINCHINE III :

LE COCHINCHINE III is entirely made of wood in a hull built of Oak (go sao), Long of 33 m and wide of 7m00 , the Vietnamese essence traditionnally used for quality ships and now a rare deed and is powered by an isuzu (450 HP) engines and 1 generator ISUZU 55KVA (220V-50HZ) .

It accommodates 28 passengers in 12 cabins including
8 Twin cabins
2 Double cabins
2 Family cabins ( each with 1 double bed & 2 single bed )
All cabins are equiped with air- condition, private bathroom with hot water
1 living room
2 restaurants
2 bar
A wide upper deck for contemplate sunset with an aperitif

The ship has been launched in june 2008 and construction is scheduled to be finished by september 08.
LE COCHINCHINE III is equipped with heat exchangers for hot water piloted by an automat that ensures constant shower water pressure and temperature. She brings along city water in sufficient.

Day 1:Saigon – Caibe – Tra on ( L,D )

8:00 Am pick up at your hotel in Saigon, transfer to Caibe
10h00 boarding LE COCHINCHINE boat. Explore the lively Cai Be floating market.Walking for visit the handicraft village of the local people. Sightseeing the old house and sample various tropical fruits.
10h00 Up for cruise to continue to Cantho via Cho LACH and TRAON.
12h00 Disembark Cho LACH village.Make a pleasant walking or biking on the footpaths of the countryside to discover tropical fruit orchards and the local people's activities,especially somes orchards (orange grove) with its famer.
Cruise to continue to Traon.Enjoy the magnificent sunset on the
river. Leisurely cruise up the Mekong River while enyoying the beautiful scenery and the
aperitifs, sunset cruise .
A wonderful day with picturesque ferry crossings over Mekong River branches .Dinner and nite on board in TRAON

Day 2: Tra on – Can Tho – Chau doc( B )
The noise of the floating market wake you up early in the morning. After breakfast, the cruise to continue to Can Tho. Enjoy the magnificent sunrise on the river. Leisurely cruise up the BASSAC river while enyoying the beautiful scenery.
Arrive Can Tho, a small boat will take you explore the Cai Rang market one of the most bustling floating markets in Mekong Delta with hundreds of small boats barging and jostling for space as owners attempt to sell their goods. And through the palm-shaded creek to see local houses and green orchards.

10h00 Disembark in Cantho.
We now travel by land to Chau Doc, on the way we will pass Thot Not to visit Bang Lang Bird Sanctuary (StorkGarden)- or Crocodile Farm. On arrival at Chau Doc, visit the Sam mountain to enjoy the a breath-taking view and enjoy the sunset on the top of SamMountain. Over night at hotel in Chau Doc
Day 3: Chau doc – Phnompenh by speed boat ( B )

This morning we will have a boat ride from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh departing around 7:30 AM.

The boat takes us along the Mekong River. It continues on to the Vietnamese (Vinh Xuong) - Cambodian (Kaom Samnar) border and then to Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia. The journey takes approximately 4,5 hours. Arrive in Phnompenh pier around 12:00 PM. Tour ends.

Tour includes:
2 days 1 night cruise with Le Cochinchine boat
Tours & transfers in private air-conditioned vehicles
1 night at hotel in Chau doc with breakfast as stated above
Private English speaking guide
Meals as indicated in the itinerary at local restaurant with local foods (B= breakfast; L=Lunch; D = Dinner)
Entrance fees and permits for all sights visited
Speed boat ticket Chau doc - Phnompenh
Mineral Water and towel
Government taxes & Service charges

Tour excludes:
International flights to and from Vietnam.
Vietnam visa arrangement (upon request visa on arrival at 15 USD, not including stamping fee at 25 USD)
Cambodia Visa ( available at the border )
Meals not indicated in the itinerary
All other services which are not mentioned above
Personal travel insurance (Compulsory).
Personal expenses such as Telephone and Laundry bills.
Tips and gratuities

For further information about this tour and Vietnam cambodia tours , please click my link: http://www.mekongcruisetrip.com/inde...ise&tour_id=39

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Beauty of the North vietnam 5 days 4 nights

Destination:
Hanoi - Halong - Hanoi
Starts in:Ha NoiEnds in:Ha NoiDuration:5 Days in LengthTour code:HE12

Itinerary in Brief:
Day 1: Hanoi arrival (D)
Day 2: Hanoi city tour (B, L)
Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay on board (B, L, D)
Day 4: Halong – Hanoi (B)
Day 5: Ha noi Departure (B)

Itinerary in Details:

Day 1: Hanoi arrival (D)
Arrival at Noi Bai Airport, Welcome and transfer to hotel by Asia View Travel guides with signboard, check in, relax. This evening, your guide will take you out to sample some of Hanoi’s superb cuisine. Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi city tour (B, L)
This morning we start city tour with the Ho Chi Minh Complex. This famous site contains the mausoleum of the nation’s founder Ho Chi Minh (Close on Monday, friday & November), the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts.

Close to this complex is the One Pillar Pagoda, whose origins date back to the foundation of city. We follow this with the Temple of Literature, which is well known as the first university of Vietnam. Lunch at local restaurant. Afternoon, visit the impressive Ethnology Museum, dedicated to Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups, Quan Thanh Temple, West lake, the Restored Sword Lake (Hoan Kiem Lake) and Ngoc Son Temple. Take a cyclo tour around the 36 streets of the Hanoi old quarter to learn more about simple life of Hanoian. Enjoy water puppet show - a remarkable Vietnamese art form that combines traditional music, fireworks, underwater puppeteers, and elaborate puppets floating gracefully over water. Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.

Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay on board (B, L, D)
Breakfast at hotel and then start a 3-hour drive through the Red River Delta to Ha Long City. Comfort stop en route for photos and coffee before arriving to Ha Long City. We then transfer to a refurbished wooden sailing junk for a cruise through the limestone cliffs and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, giving us the chance to take in the stunning scenery of this World Heritage Site. While on board we will be served a sumptuous fresh, local seafood lunch followed by a swim and exploring some of the limestone caves in this area. When the sun comes down we drop anchor for the night nearby a remote island. Overnight on Junk.

Day 4: Halong – Hanoi (B)

Rising to the tranquil beauty of the bay we have time for an early morning dip with joys and emotions for watching sunrise on sea followed by breakfast. This morning we continue to move around the bay to find more secluded areas. The junk will be near us at all times serving as a back up vessel for those that require it. At around midday we will return to the main harbor before transferring to our awaiting vehicle for a 3-hour journey back to Hanoi. Come back Hanoi around 04:00PM, check in hotel, relax.


Day 5: Hanoi departure (B)
Breakfast at hotel, free time until transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Say goodbye Vietnam.

Thank you for traveling with Asia View Travel.

Tour includes:
• Tours & transfers in private air-conditioned vehicles
• All accommodation with daily breakfast at selected hotels.
• 1 night on board in Halong Bay
• Private English speaking guide
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary at local restaurant with local foods (B = breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner)
• Boat cruise as stated
• Entrance fees and permits for all sights visited
• Mineral Water & Towel
• Government taxes & Service charges

Tour excludes:
• International flights to and from Vietnam.
• Vietnam visa arrangement (upon request visa on arrival at 15 USD, not including stamping fee at 25 USD)
• Meals not indicated in the itinerary
• Kayak in Halong Bay
• All other services which are not mentioned above
• Personal travel insurance (Compulsory).
• Personal expenses such as Telephone and Laundry bills.
• Tips and gratuities

For further information about this tour and Vietnam travel deals , please click my link: http://www.asiaviewtravel.com/hanoit...9/Default.aspx

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Phnompenh - Saigon cruise by Mekong feeling 3 days

Destination: Phnompenh - Chau doc - Can tho - Cai be -Saigon
Duration: 3 days 2 nights
Tour code: MCC8


Boat description:


Hand crafted of fine wood according to local marine traditions focusing on excellent modern comfort, MEKONG FEELING cruise can accommodate 16 guests with 8 comfortable Staterooms including bathroom, a sunbathing yard, and a small well-designed elegant bar. The Staterooms will provide you with excellent comfort and are constructed with leading edge sound-proofing materials as well as perfect anti-shaking. The water heater and cooling system are located in the bathroom. “Safety First” - MEKONG FEELING has its own clean water supply system and all necessary fire prevention.

The MEKONG FEELING is built for short-to medium-range cruises and is particularly adapted for ensure your cruise, will allow you to “Feel the Mekong Difference!”

Length (max) : Lmax = 27,67 (m)
Width (max) : Bmax = 7,62 (m)
Lenght of water line design : Lw = 23,62 (m)
Width design : Bth = 7.45 (m)
Width at boat deck : B = 7,60 (m)
Height broadside: H = 3,00 (m)
Sink water level: T = 1,50 (m)
Volume occupied water : ∆ = 170,89 (Ton)
Ship frame theory : ∆∟ = 2,36 (m)
Ship frame reality : = 0.40 (m)




Itinerary

Day 1 : Phnom Penh – Chau Doc
Our car and guide will pick up you at your Hotel in Phnompenh at 11:15 AM , transfer to the pier to take the speed boat to Chau doc. The speed boat leaves at 12:00PM and arrive in Chau doc ( Vietnam ) around 4:30 PM. Pick up at Chau doc pier, transfer to hotel, check in,relax.

Day 2: Chau doc – Can tho ( B, L,D )
Breakfast at hotel, transfer to Can tho. The guest get on board our private pier in Ninh Kieu quay in Can tho at noontime. Enjoy thewelcoming tropical fruit juice. Check in your cabin. Departure cruise downstream of Hau River toward Tra On Floating market. Lunch is served on board. Cruise across Nicolai canal on Mang Thit River. Guests transfer to small boat to visit the local village in Mang Thit having a chance to walk on the tiny lanes and feel the "local touch" of the nice people in the Mekong Delta. Returning the Mekong Feeling to enjoy the handmade snack ordering the cocktail you like (the guests' own account) while experience the beautiful sunset view on board. By 19:00 have a relaxing dinner. Mekong Feeling anchors at a peaceful place for his guests spend the calming night on board on the Mang Thit River.

Day 3: Caibe – Saigon ( B )
By 6:00 to 6:30 AM wake up catching the magic dawn in Mekong Delta while the Mekong Feeling leisurely cruise across Co Chien River.
At about 7:00 have continental or American breakfast on board. We have a view of hustle & bustle Cho Lach, one busy local market on the river bank. Cruise towards Cai Be floating market. Enjoy the last precious minutes tranquility cruise before check out at 09:00am.After seeing off our captain & cabin crew on the mekong feeling, the guests transfer to a small boat to visit Cai Be Floating market. Your last activities is walking on village road to visit the local family-run rice-paper & coconut mills before the boat disembark at Cai be Port. You will be picked up and transferred to Saigon. Drop off at your hotel ( hotel not include ). End of tour.

At mekongcruisetrip.com we are pleased to offer you the wide range of cruises on the charming Mekong river through the beautiful countryside of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. Joining our comfortable cruises, you will enjoy a cultural journey, a great opportunity to understand more about the simple life along Mekong River. Take a few days to explore the floating markets, meet friendly and hospitable local people, take part in all activities such as farming, fishing, weaving, biking… is really an interesting experience in your holiday. Mekong cruise ; Mekong tours ; mekong delta tours

For further information about mekong delta tours , please click my link: http://www.mekongcruisetrip.com/

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Vietnam overland tour (BEST VIETNAM TOUR)

Day 1: Ho chi minh arrival
Arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, welcome and transfer to hotel by Asia View Travel guides with signboard, check in, relax. Overnight at hotel in Ho chi minh. (The first day’s programme can be re- arranged according to your arrival time in Ho chi minh).



Day 2: Ho chi minh city – Cuchi tunnel (B, L)
Morning we continue to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, which were an incredible underground network constructed by Vietnamese fighters during the long struggle for independence. The tunnels contained hospitals, plus accommodation and schools, and were used as a military base for the Vietcong in the American war. Overnight in HCM city.

Day 3: Ho chi minh – Mekong delta – Caibe floating market (B, L)

Breakfast at the hotel. Depart for Cai Be, stop for photos at Tan An town over the flat rice fields. Arrive to Cai Be, start the motorized boat ro visit the Cai Be floating market, see how river life goes on, experience how people exchanging goods, fruit and many other commodities on their vessels. Visitors then roam into the small villages to visit the orchard, fruit plantation.

Day 4: Ho chi minh – Dalat (B, L)
Breakfast at the hotel. Depart for Dalat via the National highway 20. Enjoy the smooth drive with the beautiful landscape. Stop for photos at the La Nga lake and the floating village. Visit the Dambri waterfall.

Day 5: Dalat – Nha trang (B, L)
Our sightseeing tour of Da Lat takes in the former residence of Emperor Bao Dai, Hang Nga Crazy House, Tuyen Lam Lake, the Central Market, the Love Valley and Lam Ty Ni Pagoda. The afternoon, our guide and driver will take us out of Da Lat and back down the Prenn Pass for a stop at the ''Chicken village". From here we will head east and down the Ngoan Muc pass to the coastal lowlands.Overnight at hotel in Nhatrang.
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Day 6: Nha Trang island tour (B, L)
Start from your hotel to Cau Da port. Tri Nguyen Aquarium on Mieu Island is the first place to visit, many sea species of Nha Trang/Khanh Hoa province make a small ocean world there. Mun Island is the best island for snorkeling where you can see lots of lives colorful corals and fish. Visit a fishing village and taking a fresh lunch at the island. On the way back you will be able to see caves in which the sea swallows make their nest.

Day 7: Nha trang – Buon Ma Thuot – Lak Lake (B,L, D)
The beautiful Ponagar Cham Towers is one of the most interesting sights in Nha Trang .We visit this and Long Son Pagoda before we head the coast towards the Central Highlands, travelling via the famous town of Buon Ma Thuot to Lak Lake. On arrival, Visit Jun village, enjoy a ride on Lak lake by dug-out canoe for 1 hour to see the local people fishing .Dinner and Over night in long house-on-stilts by Lak lake.

Day 8: Lak Lake – Pleiku – Kontum ( B, L,D )
After breakfast, we travel by roads along the central highlands and pass Vietnam's biggest growing coffee area to Pleiku and Komtum, our final destination. The deep contrast of lush vegetation and red surface of basaltic soil is incredible all along the way with Rubber plantation, Pine plantation, Tea plantation.Overnight in Kontum.

Day 9: Kontum – Hoian (B, L)
The scenic journey continues to Hoi An which was originally a Cham seaport but has been influenced down the centuries by a myriad of traders from various cultures. We make our way past the beautiful mountainous region towards the central coast. A part of the pleasure of travelling in this region is the simple joy of seeing the rice fields and the smiling faces of the people. On arrival in Hoian, check in, relax. Overnight at hotel in Hoian.

Day 10: Hoian – Hue (B, L )
This morning an interesting walk around the old quarter streets will acquaint us with Hoian's some major landmarks.The ancient architecture of Hoian is a fascinating combination of Vietnamese traditional characters with Chinese and Japanese influence. There are plenty to see in this delightful and tranquil town, some of which are the famous Japanese Covered Bridges, the Pottery Museum, the 200 years old Tam Ky House, the Chua Ong Pagoda, the vibrant market. We visit these on our walking tour past many low tiled houses scattered along the small streets and assembly halls which reflect the town's multi-cultural past.


Day 11: Hue – Hanoi overnight on train (B, L)
This morning we explore Hue, including the Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City. Built in the 19th century by the Nguyen dynasty, the City was home to the former Emperors of Vietnam from 1802 until 1945. We embark on a boat for cruise upstream on the Perfume River which also gives us a taste of the scenic countryside as well as an enjoyable visit to The beautiful pagoda of Thien Mu.. Overnight on train.

Day 12: Hanoi (B, L)
The train journey arrives in Hanoi this morning. Pick up, transfer to hotel for breakfast and freshen up. We then spend a full day in Vietnam's capital, we take time to visit Ba Dinh square, where we have the opportunity to see Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum and former residence. We follow this with the impressive Ethnology Museum, dedicated to Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. Lunch at local restaurant.Overnight at hotel.

Day 13: Hanoi – Son la (B, L)
An early morning start to drive towards Son La. We pass through the undulating terrains of tea plantations and the many timeless villages linked to the road which is the main artery of trade between the northwestern region and the capital city. Overnight at hotel in Son La.

Day 14: Son la – Dien Bien Phu (B, L)

The provincial museum and the nearby old prison are some of this hill town's major sights. We have a chance to visit these before we leave for our next destination. The winding roads cross over the Pha Din Pass before reaching Dien Bien Phu, the site of the decisive battle in Vietnam's struggle for independence in 1954.Overnight at hotel in Dien Bien Phu.

Day 15: Dien Bien Phu – Tam Duong (B)
Heading out of the town, we spend a full day travelling into Vietnam's most mountainous region. The roads are difficult at times, but the spectacular landscape with a mixture of terraced fields and hill villages makes the hardship all worthwhile.Overnight in Tam Duong.

Day 16: Tam Duong – Sapa (B)
The scenery of the north is unequalled although the conditions are very simple. After breakfast we set off on a half day drive following the mountain roads to Sa Pa, our final destination. Overnight in SaPa.

Day 17: Sapa – Catcat village (B, L)
After breakfast, we visit the bustling Sa Pa Market where the Red Dao, Black Hmong, Tay and Xa Pho ethnic minorities converge from the nearby mountainsides and valleys to trade their goods and buy provisions.Overnight at hotel in Sapa.

Day 18: Lao chai – Tavan villages - night train back Hanoi (B, L)
Buffet breakfast at the hotel Embark on a lovely walk that will take us along small paths and trails and through several hill tribe villages of Lao Chai and Tavan, home to H'mong, and Dzay people.Overnight on train.

Day 19: Hanoi – Halong bay on board (B, L, D)
The train arrive in Hanoi around 5:30AM. Please find your way by foot back to a mini hotel near the Tran Quy Cap station gate to have shower and basic set menu breakfast. 8:30 Am start a 3.5 hour drive through the Red River Delta to Ha Long City. Comfort stop en route for photos and coffee before arriving to Ha Long City.Overnight on Junk.

Day 20: Halong – Hanoi (Brunch)
Rising to the tranquil beauty of the bay we have time for an early morning dip with joys and emotions for watching sunrise on sea followed by breakfast. Arrive in Hanoi, free rest of the time. Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.

Day 21: Hanoi departure (B)
Breakfast at hotel, free time until transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Say goodbye Vietnam.

Thank you for traveling with Asia View Travel.

For further information about Best vietnam tours , please click my link: http://www.asiaviewtravel.com/

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Life on Mekong river

Monkey bridges - an endangered species
These simple, arch-shaped footbridges are usually built of uneven logs about 30cm to 80cm wide and have only a simple bamboo railing. They are suspended anywhere from 2m to 10m above the canals and connect tiny villages throughout the region to main roads.
At first glance the bridges look more like makeshift scaffolding than a bridge. It's amazing t. watch the locals traverse these narrow catwalks with bicycles and heavy loads balanced between their shoulders on bamboo poles. A fall from one of these tightrope bridges could result in serious injury, but the Vietnamese just glide across with ease (and smiles on their faces).
In 1998 the government initiated a programme to begin teplacing the region's monkey bridges with safer, Im-wide wood piank overpasses. In 2000 the plan was amended with a new and improved agenda to do away with all of the delta's monkey bridges once and for all, and to replace them with more durable concrete bridges. While the move no doubt is a victory in terms of improvement to the local infrastructure throughout the Mekong Delta, giving local people easier and safer access across the canals, sadly the traditional landscape is suffering an aesthetic loss. The days of seeing these charming bridges everywhere are numbered, but still, with thousands of bridges to dismantle and replace, you can rest assured that there will always be some left to find.

A home away from home
Many of the homes that are open to Western visitors are on the banks of the Mekong River. When you reach the home of your host family, you should remove your shoes. Most families also prefer women to be well covered up.In traditional houses, the sleeping area is open plan and has hammocks and wooden beds with mosquito nets hanging overhead (before the last rays of the sun disappear slap on plenty of repellent, as mosquitoes are rampant throughout the area).

A typical supper is the local favourite, elephant-ear fish, served beit upright on a bed of greens with flourishes of carrots shaped as water flowers. The flesh of the fish is pulled off in chunks with chopsticks and wrapped into a rice-paper pancake and dipped into sauce. This is accompanied by crispy spring rolls, followed by soup and rice (Mekong rice Is considered the most flavoursome).

After dinner some families exchange stories and songs over bottles o( rice wine long into the night, while others cluster around the TV.The morning starts as the first lights flicker across the water. Before breakfast, everyone takes a bath with the family. Splashing around in the muddy Mekong, fully dressed, can leave you feeling dirtier than when you started! After a hearty breakfast you say your goodbyes and head back to Vinh Long via the floating market.

Life in the delta
Often, they live right on the edge of the rivers or canals on various structures built from whatever materials found. Consequently, the architecture along the delta varies from place to place.

Often, many homes have fisheries right under them. Enterprising individuals build a cage like structure of bamboo beneath their homes on these waterways to house fishes. As the fishes grew, they sell the whole batch to processors from the city and start with new ones.

Life in the delta is tightly woven with its rivers as daily activities and businesses are conducted on its banks. Markets, stores, ship yards, repair shops are some of the more popular trades.

For further information about Mekong tours , please click my link: http://www.mekongcruisetrip.com/index.php

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Vietnam travel - VIETNAM INFO

1. Overview

Welcome to a world where the colours are more vivid, where the landscapes are bolder, the coastline more dramatic, where the history is more compelling, where the tastes are more divine, where life is lived in the fast lane. This world is Vietnam, the latest Asian dragon to awake from its slumber.

To escape the buzz of millions of motorbikes, head west to the watery landscape of green fields and sleepy villages in the Mekong Delta. There’s adventure galore to be had on Phu Quoc Island and stunning white-sand beaches to relax on. Back on the east coast at Mui Ne Beach, you’ll be faced with a similar dilemma: action or inertia?

Hoi An might weigh you down – but in a good way – you’re bound to add kilos of made-to-order clothing to your luggage. With an estimated 300 to 500 tailors working in this beautiful city, this is fashionista heaven.

To feel the intellectual, cultural and spiritual heartbeat of Vietnam, make a stop in the old imperial capital, Hué. Home to palaces and pagodas, tombs and temples, and host of the biennial arts festival, the Festival of Hué, it’s the place to go for historical, cultural and culinary stimulation.

In Hanoi, the country’s captivating capital, rise early to watch the city exercise by Hoan Kiem Lake, then pay your respects in person to Uncle Ho at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (a truly surreal experience).

Eventually you’ll be enticed out of the city by the stunning offerings of the country’s northern provinces. Nothing can prepare you for the beauty of Halong Bay and its 2000 limestone karsts, or the experience of trekking around mountainous Sapa.

Vietnam has it all. Go expecting the unexpected, be ready for an adventure as much as a holiday, and Vietnam will deliver.

2. Visas

Tourist visas allow visitors to enter and exit Vietnam at Hanoi, HCMC and Danang airports or at any of its plentiful land borders, shared with Cambodia, China and Laos.

Tourist visas are valid for a single 30-day stay. The government often talks about issuing visas on arrival to certain favoured nationalities ( citizens of Japan, Denmark, Finland, Norway, South Korea and Sweden visiting Vietnam for up to 15 days are exempted from visas), but as yet this sensible scheme has failed to materialise beyond the immediate Asean neighbours.

If you plan to spend more than a month in Vietnam or travel overland between Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia, it is possible to get a three-month multiple-entry visa.

Tourist visas are usually granted at the Vietnamese embassies or consulates and completing the visa application remains expensive and unnecessarily time-consuming.

vietnamtravelindex.com is possible to arrange a visa on arrival. We will need passport details in advance as below:

* Full name
* Date and place of birth
* Passport number
* Date of issue and expiry
* Nationality ( original and current)
* Date of arrival and departure Vietnam
* Place for visa collection

After receiving the completed form we will send you the ‘Visa upon arrival’ approval letter, approved by the Vietnam Immigration Office by email or fax, within 5-6 working days. Upon arrival in Vietnam you will get your‘visa upon arrival’ at the airport or at the border gate.

3. Weather

The climate of Vietnam varies considerably from region to region. Although the entire country lies in the tropics and subtropics, local conditions vary from frosty winters in the far northern hills to year-round, subequatorial warmth in the Mekong Delta.

Hanoi and the north of Vietnam have distinct winter and summer seasons. The mainly dry winter lasts from November to April with average temperatures of 18-20°C. Summer lasts from May to October and is hot and humid with temperatures around 30°C. Hue and Danang, in the center of the country, see very hot, dry weather from February to August with temperatures reaching the mid-30′s°C, but can experience some heavy rainfall between September and January. Ho Chi Minh City and the south have a hot, dry season from December till April with average temperatures hovering around 28°C and a warm rainy season from May to November. In the rainy season, most rain comes in short, heavy bursts.

There is good weather somewhere in Vietnam all year round! Vietnam stretches over 2000 km from North to South. The climate differs all year round from one region to another. The North can be chilly during winter months (December to March). North and Central Vietnam can encounter tropical storms and typhoons from October to January. Overall, the north of Vietnam experiences more marked seasons than the rest of the country with two distinct seasons: wet and dry.

The South, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, benefits from sunshine and warm weather all year round. However, the rainy season lasts from May to November (with showers once or twice daily in general) and a dry season from December to April. The Central Highlands can be chilly. Nha Trang has warm – sometimes hot – weather all year round, with a rainy season from the end of September until December.

Unless you intend to visit friends, relatives or your family, we do not recommend visiting Vietnam during the Lunar New Year or Tet holiday (Vietnamese New Year falls between late January and February). Tet is the most important period of the year for many Vietnameses who take time off to visit their families in the countryside. All hotels, buses, trains and flights are full, and there is almost no activity in the markets and shops. Some hotels and restaurants are under-staffed and in some cases the quality of the service may suffer. This period of reduced activity may last from a week before and a week after the Tet period. It is also impossible to get a “visa authorization letter” processed during this period.

NOTE: As a reminder, the peak season lasts from October to May. To avoid disappointment because hotel rooms or domestic flights are fully booked, reserve your travel arrangements early.


For further information about Vietnam travel , please click my link: http://vietnamtravelindex.com/genera.../vietnam-infos

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PARADISE CRUISE -Halong bay-vietnam

Embarking from private pier at the stunning Tuan Chau Island Halong Bay, Paradise Cruises invites you to experience the finest of an immersion in culture, heritage and natural beauty in one of the most captivating destinations in the world.
Granting spacious first class cabins, inspired fusion cuisine as well as supreme customer services for this breathtaking seascape, Paradise Cruises redefines the luxury cruising concept in the legendary Halong Bay.
Cruise with Paradise – Cruise the Magnificence
DELUXE CABIN
Our Deluxe cabins (16.2 m²) located on the first deck, providing all equipment necessary to make your stay onboard as comfortable as memorable:
* Twin or double beds, central AC, internal telephone, personal safe, wardrobe, deluxe amenities and a spacious private marble bathroom with large glass standing shower and hair dryer.
* Each cabin has three large windows to enjoy the wonderful scenery of the bay
DELUXE BALCONY
Our Deluxe Balcony cabins (18.2m²) located on the second deck, taking all the equipment of Deluxe cabins complete with a private balcony offering a broad view over the magnificent seascape of the legendary Halong Bay.
Deluxe Balcony cabins are available in twin or double set-up.
PARADISE SUITE
Our spacious Paradise Suites (23m²) are located at the front of the lower deck.
Each Paradise Suite features a King-size double bed, a mini bar, a large LCD television, DVD player, an airy private marble bathroom with a Jacuzzi bath-tub and all facilities of Deluxe cabins complete.
TERRACE SUITE
Both of our luxurious Terrace Suites (23m²) are located at the front of the second deck, offering our passengers a stunning panoramic sea view on the wonderful landscapes of the Bay.
Each Suite generates all the comfort of the Deluxe cabins and even more with a King-size double bed, a large marble bathroom with a bath-tub, in addition to an exclusive access to a spacious private terrace (equipped with sunbathing chairs and umbrellas).
DINING ROOM & BAR
Dining aboard is one of your Paradise inspirational experiences. Located on the third deck of the ship, the extraordinary dining room offers a superb panoramic view of the charming bay. Stylish buffets and delicious menus are served by our qualified crew in traditional Vietnamese costumes.
The gorgeous Paradise’s bar is the heart of the dining room offering a wide range of beers, fine wines and cocktails in a thoroughly relaxed atmosphere. Whether it is a cozy lunch or drink, a head-to-head romantic dinner or an extravagant gala dinner, Paradise Cruises will make it happen especially for you.
At Paradise Luxury, we are proud to have transformed conviviality and comfort into an art form. Our restaurant and bars are places of great exploration; where supreme service is ensured within the greatest wonder of the world.
SPA
Revive your senses
Following the principles of Feng Shui, the design of the Paradise Spa uses air and waters as crucial elements which devote to the well-being delight beyond expectations. Our major focus is to offer a first class Spa gratification, one that is truly relaxing, refreshing and diplomatic.
While offering an unrivalled range of fine treatments to choose from, our expert beauticians and therapists will accompany you through your options of body and beauty care. At Paradise Spa, therapeutic quality essential oils are the basis of the aromatherapy skincare products used for the majority of the face and body treatments.
We also place great importance on the relaxation essentials of the spa experience. Prior to or after treatments, guests can stay in the Spa to enjoy the dry sauna and Jacuzzi whilst sipping on complimentary ginger or jasmine tea, the signature of Paradise Spa.
SUNDECK
Comfortably installed in a deckchair, lulled by a gentle sea breeze and surrounded by the enchanted seascape, the sundeck will allow you to relax and soak up in a pleasant atmosphere and/or to socialize with other passengers around delicious fresh fruit juice.
The “Moonlight bar” located on the top deck is an ideal place to enjoy a unique romantic experience; where to discover a selection of impressive cocktails and share unforgettable memories within unique landscape enhanced by a magical starry sky.

For further information about Halong bay Tours , please click my link: http://www.halongbaytour.com/

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Saigon to Siem Reap (8 Days/7 Nights)

Day 1: Saigon – My Tho ( D )
Bid farewell to the hustle and bustle of Saigon you will go to My Tho for embarkation. My Tho is 70km South of Saigon and located on the upper Mekong river in Vietnam. Enjoy a cocktail reception at the Funnel Bar and Lounge followed by a Welcome Dinner on the Sun Deck. Drop anchor just outside of My Tho for the night.

Day 2: Cai Be - Chau Doc( B, L,D )
Starts with the cruise among local sampans coming from all provinces of the delta full of fruits and vegetables. Proceed to Dong Hoa Hiep island located between Vinh Long and Cai Be. During a 40 minute cruise, discover beautiful landscapes along the river and observe the typical Mekong Delta rural life. These evergreen islands among the Mekong River still remain unknown to many people. Further stops will allow you to see traditional brick and tile factories and how locals use palm leaves for houses. After touring the canals, head to the Ba Duc ancient house to have know the descendants of the former imperial residents. Then you will observe the Cai Be’s colorful floating market from Caibe Princess boat.
Back on the sampans, cruise 20 minutes further to Phu An hamlet passing by Cai Be’s beautiful cathedral. Then, group 1 can stay on boat to go straight to the restaurant while group 2 explores the edges of the canals on bicycle. Lunch will await you at Le Longanier, a superb Indochinese villa located in a lush tropical garden by the river, surrounded by fruit orchards. After lunch the cruise will continue with the visit some interesting home factories to see how rice paste, rice cookies and coconut candies, are made, along with the longan fruit drying process.
Board The Jahan for a relaxing evening cruise towards Chau Doc. Moor midstream overnight.

Day 3: Chau Doc- border crossing ( B, L, D )
Welcome to the circus of fish. The early birds will be treated to Thai Chi lessons on the Sun Deck. Brace yourself for a boat excursion to the exciting floating villages and catfish farms witnessing masses of bassa fish being fed, hand in hand with a shore excursion to the village of the local Muslim Cham community.
Take a ride through this fascinating town of rich French colonial architecture and see its bustling market flooded with tropical fruits in full display by women in cone shaped palm leaf hats. Observe beautiful textiles being woven on old wooden looms; a tradition that has been passed from generation to generation.
By mid-afternoon, The Jahan casts off for the border towards Phnom Penh.

Day 4: Phnom Penh ( B, L, D)
Before the sun rises, The Jahan sets sail to Kampong Chhnang via Prek K'dam along the meandering Tonle Sap River, which narrows through leafy swaths of the South East Asian jungle. Take a walk through Kampong Louang, one of the last silversmith villages, to see the entire community involved in making various silver items to sell. Get back aboard The Jahan to eat lunch while cruising towards Kampong Chhnang.
After lunch, take a motorboat excursion from Kampong Chhnang to see the wetlands, floating houses and fish farms in the region. Make a stop at a Heritage Line sponsored floating school to interact with the children and teach them some English! This is the day to truly experience rural Khmer life. In the evening, a mouth watering Farewell Dinner will be served on the Sun Deck.

Day 5: Phnom Penh - Kampong Cham ( B, L,D )
Depart before the break of dawn from Phnom Penh with a stop at the little known Chong Koh silk weaving village for a leisure walk. We cruise past the Mekong's tranquil villages and mind blowing river life with scores of fishermen on duty.
Visit Wat Nokor, a wat built within the ruins of an ancient temple that holds a timeless story. Then, travel to the Cheung Kok Ecotourism Village, a small village developed with support from Assistance Mediation Internationale (AMICA). Travelers can visit the village and take part in activities to experience village life. Profits from tourism go towards re-investment into long-term projects.

Day 6: Kampong Cham - Wat Hanchey ( B, L, D)
Wake up in the wee hours of the morning, truly energized to embark on a journey upriver to the pre-Angkorian temple of Wat Hanchey. Located at the top of a hill overlooking the river, it offers some of the best views in Cambodia. Dating from the 8th century, these ancient structures do justice to the architecture of the Chenla Empire which predated the glories of the mighty Angkor. Enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding well organized rice paddy plains, as well as a travelers blessing performed by the local monks.

Day 7: Kampong Cham - Kampong Chhnang - Tonle Sap ( B, L,D )
Before the sun rises, The Jahan sets sail to Kampong Chhnang via Prek K'dam along the meandering Tonle Sap River, which narrows through leafy swaths of the South East Asian jungle. Take a walk through Kampong Louang, one of the last silversmith villages, to see the entire community involved in making various silver items to sell. Get back aboard The Jahan to eat lunch while cruising towards Kampong Chhnang.
After lunch, take a motorboat excursion from Kampong Chhnang to see the wetlands, floating houses and fish farms in the region. Make a stop at a Heritage Line sponsored floating school to interact with the children and teach them some English!
This is the day to truly experience rural Khmer life. In the evening, a mouth watering Farewell Dinner will be served on the Sun Deck.

Day 8: Tonle Sap - Siem Reap ( B )
This great lake dominates Cambodia and is over 150 km in length. The birdlife is profuse and from the middle of the lake one cannot even see the shores. Witness stillness and tranquility on the way to Siem Reap.
The water level varies a great deal according to the time of the year and the amount of rainfall recorded. Thus, changes may occur for the different seasons.
High Water Program (approx. between July and December)
Cross the Tonle Sap Lake at dawn and 11:00 disembark at Siem Reap Port for onward coach transfer to the hotel by 12:00 pm

Cruise includes:
8 days Jahan cruise as stated above
English speaking guide on board
Transfers as stated in the itinerary
Meals as indicated in the itinerary (B= breakfast; L=Lunch; D = Dinner)
Admission fees and permits where applicable
Government taxes and Service Charge

Cruise excludes:
Visa in Vietnam
Visa in Cambodia
Pre & Post trip arrangement
Travel insurance


For further information, please click my link: http://www.mekongcruisetrip.com/index.php?mod=tour&cat=mientaysampan&tour_id=57

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