Travelmarvel's unmissable sights when touring Egypt

Linked by the mighty Mekong River, Vietnam and Cambodia are perfectly suited to slow cruising and enriching discoveries on land. Here are seven unmissable experiences on a journey across these captivating countries with Travelmarvel.

1. CRUISE HA LONG BAY

The forest-covered limestone karst peaks rising from the Gulf of Tonkin are the signature image of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ha Long Bay, its 3,000-odd rocky islands sheltering caves and grottoes. Time slows down as you drift among islands, explore caves by kayak, practise tai chi on deck, and dine on exquisite Southeast Asian cuisine, all the while enveloped by the otherworldly beauty of your surrounds.

2. MASTER VIETNAMESE CUISINE IN HOI AN

Blessed with extensive coastline, fertile soil, and plenty of rain, Vietnam produces an abundance of fresh ingredients. It's what gives the cuisine its celebrated freshness and balance — and what makes learning to cook Vietnamese cuisine such a rewarding experience. Join a hands-on cooking class at the famous Morning Glory Cooking School to prepare a selection of dishes before sitting down to enjoy your delicious creations.

3. WATCH THE SUN RISE AT ANGKOR WAT

As one of Southeast Asia’s most important archaeological complexes, Cambodia’s Angkor Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most spectacular sunrise viewpoints on the planet. In the soft glow of dawn, arrive at Angkor Wat, the park’s dazzling centrepiece. Witness the sun climb over this incredible wonder, originally built as a Hindu temple and later transformed into a revered Buddhist site. When the lake is filled with water, its shimmering surface reflects the temple’s central spires framed by fan palms — a photographer’s dream.

4. STAY AT SHINTA MANI ANGKOR

Renowned American designer Bill Bensley boasts more than 200 resorts, hotels, and palaces under his name — but it’s Shinta Mani Angkor that is closest to his heart. The famous striped courtyard pool — surrounded by lush lawns, elegant palms, frangipani trees, and hand-folded pink lotus flower displays — serves as a shady oasis in the heart of Siem Reap’s Royal District, the perfect haven after a day spent exploring the temples.

5. USE TOURISM AS A FORCE FOR GOOD

Visit Opportunities of Development thru Art (ODA) in Siem Reap and meet children from disadvantaged backgrounds receiving free education through this local charity, supported by Travelmarvel via the OneTomorrow initiative, alongside generous guest donations. Watching the children paint, with the opportunity to purchase their artwork, offers a first-hand experience of the positive impact that tourism can have on local communities

6. BE BLESSED BY A BUDDHIST MONK

Approximately 97 per cent of the Cambodian population is Buddhist. Khmer monks renounce material possessions in pursuit of spiritual enlightenment, living a simple, ascetic life. Gain a glimpse into monastic life in Cambodia’s former royal capital of Oudong, where you’ll experience a Buddhist blessing ceremony at a local monastery, bestowing you with good luck, health, and a safe journey.

7. TAKE AN AFTERNOON TUK TUK RIDE

On the tiny island of Koh Pen, on a tranquil bend of the Mekong River, you’ll hop aboard a local tuk tuk for an afternoon ride. It’s an unbeatable way to connect with authentic local life as you travel along shaded lanes, passing colourful markets, ancient temple grounds, and stilted timber houses tucked among tall palms and sandalwood trees.