Vietnam, Cambodia & Mekong River Cruise

This journey through Vietnam and Cambodia had been high on my must-see list for many years, shaped by growing up in the Philippines and hearing my father’s stories from his travels throughout Southeast Asia. We began in the serenity of Ha Long Bay, then moved between land and river with time to linger in beautiful, historic hotels in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Siem Reap — places that added depth, comfort, and a sense of place to the experience. At the heart of the journey was sailing the Mekong aboard the Mekong Jewel, where traveling by small ship allowed us to move quietly through daily life along the river — visiting floating markets, villages, temples, and historic towns. Deeply immersive, it’s a journey that stayed with me long after returning home.

It’s the kind of journey that lingers — not just in photos, but in the quiet moments and stories you find yourself returning to long after the trip is over. Enjoy scrolling through the many photos, it was hard to leave any out.

Ha Long Bay is a place where time moves slow — emerald waters dotted with limestone karsts, quiet lagoons, and a sense of calm that settles in the moment you arrive.

Ease into the day with sunrise Tai Chi as Ha Long Bay glows in the early light, then cruise past dramatic limestone islets before exploring the ancient chambers of Tien Ong Cave, where history stretches back thousands of years. After a tranquil lunch at anchor in a quiet lagoon, drift by bamboo boat through Cua Van Fishermen’s Village for a glimpse of daily life lived entirely on the water. The following morning brings one last peaceful start and a visit to Me Cung Cave, a winding, maze-like world of striking formations, and a farewell to Ha Long Bay before the journey continues onward.