River cruising is suddenly red hot. Despite the economy, interest and bookings have never been higher.Originating on the rivers of Europe, now travelers have a unique opportunity to see the untouched landscapes and rural way of life in Cambodia and Vietnam aboard the Ms. Marguerite and Amalotus.We recently organized and escorted a group of 40 adventure seekers from Washington State, on an expedition originating in Siem Reap and ending in Saigon. Indelible scenes included the famous UNESCO temples of Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm, a perfect stay at the elegant Hotel de la Paix (see additional review previously posted), Tonle Sap lake, villages of clustered homes on stilts, hillside temples, serene rice paddies and the emerging sophistication of Phnom Penh.Teak day beds and wicker furnishings fill the top deck along with a somewhat awkward pool and bar area. Here, passengers could have an early cup of coffee while watching the riverbanks wake up. In addition there is a full size lounge and a comfortable dining room.
Daily excursions-often by long tail boats, and complimentary local wine (marginal) and beer (excellent) are included in the reasonable fare. Excursion highlights included the royal palaces at Phnom Penh, rickshaw rides through small towns, and a somber afternoon at Cambodia's infamous Killing Fields.
We look forward to bringing more of our clients to this unspoiled part of the world in 2012. Both the Cambodians and Vietnamese people are hospitable, curious, industrious and anxious to share their cultures with the West.Call or email me if you would like to be on the information list for our next Mekong Voyage.
