Exploring Vietnam & Cambodia with Uniworld
When travel advisors experience a destination first hand, it brings an added level of insight when helping clients plan their journeys. Recently, Wanderlust Travel Experts broker Megan Bishop from Talk Travel travelled through Cambodia and Vietnam with Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, experiencing a fascinating cruisetour along the Mekong River.
Her journey began in Siem Reap, Cambodia, a lively town known as the gateway to the extraordinary temples of Angkor. Megan spent her first nights at the beautiful Park Hyatt Siem Reap, a hotel that immediately set the tone for the warmth and hospitality she would experience throughout the trip.
From the moment she arrived, the service stood out. Megan described feeling like absolute royalty, with thoughtful touches everywhere. The rooms were elegant and comfortable, with every amenity you could need, plush towels and a well stocked minibar. Outside, the hotel’s pool area offered a peaceful retreat with double cabanas perfect for relaxing after a day exploring the town.
The hotel even offers a complimentary tuk tuk service, allowing guests to easily explore Siem Reap. Megan took full advantage of this and quickly discovered the lively atmosphere of Pub Street, where restaurants, bars and markets create a vibrant evening scene. After dinner and some very affordable cocktails, she wandered through the local markets filled with colourful stalls selling everything from souvenirs to handmade crafts.
Angkor Wat: One of the World’s Greatest Wonders
The following day brought one of the highlights of the trip. Travelling by tuk tuk once again, Megan visited the incredible Angkor Wat.
Built in the 12th century by the Khmer Empire, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and one of the most remarkable archaeological sites anywhere on the planet. The sheer scale of the temple complex is breathtaking. Towering stone structures, intricate carvings and long galleries stretch across the vast grounds, while reflecting pools mirror the iconic spires rising above the landscape.
For Megan, it was a truly unforgettable experience and one she believes is an absolute must when visiting Cambodia.
Boarding the Mekong Jewel
After exploring Siem Reap, the next stage of the journey began with a transfer to join Uniworld’s Mekong Jewel, the elegant river ship that would carry Megan along the Mekong River.
The Mekong Jewel is designed to offer an intimate cruising experience, carrying fewer than 70 guests. Its boutique size allows for attentive service and a relaxed atmosphere throughout the voyage.
The ship itself is beautifully appointed, with spacious suites featuring French balconies and stylish interiors. Public spaces include a panoramic lounge, spa, fitness centre and a sun deck with a swimming pool, the perfect place to relax while watching life along the Mekong drift by.
Dining onboard is another highlight. Uniworld is known for its exceptional cuisine, combining regional Southeast Asian flavours with international dishes. Meals often incorporate fresh local ingredients, allowing guests to experience the tastes of the region while enjoying the comfort of the ship.
Phnom Penh: A Powerful Window into Cambodia’s Past
One of the most memorable days of the cruise came with the ship’s arrival in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital city.
The morning began with a walk through a local village where guests were welcomed into a family home, providing a glimpse into everyday Cambodian life. Megan also visited a local school where travellers spent time helping students practise their English. It was a simple but meaningful exchange that left a lasting impression.
Later in the day the focus shifted to Cambodia’s recent history with visits to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields. These powerful sites tell the story of the Khmer Rouge regime and the tragic events that unfolded during the 1970s.
For Megan it was a deeply emotional experience and an important reminder of Cambodia’s resilience and the strength of its people.
Life Along the Mekong River
As the Mekong Jewel cruised from Cambodia into Vietnam, the pace of the journey shifted to the gentle rhythm of life along the river.
Some days were about simply enjoying the ship. Megan spent time relaxing by the pool with a cocktail, joining onboard activities such as spring roll making demonstrations, and watching the scenery glide past from the sun deck.
Other days were filled with fascinating shore excursions that offered insight into daily life along the Mekong.
On Gieng Island, Megan arrived by traditional sampan boat before continuing by rickshaw through the village streets. She visited a workshop where artisans craft Vietnam’s famous conical hats and later watched a colourful dragon dance performance at a monastery that has stood for more than 150 years.
Exploring the local markets was another highlight. These bustling markets offer an authentic look at everyday life, with stalls overflowing with fresh fruit, vegetables, seafood and regional delicacies.
Further along the Mekong Delta, the journey continued to Vinh Long, where Megan visited a local rice factory. Here she saw how rice is transformed into a surprising range of products including rice paper, rice candy and popped rice snacks. It was a fascinating demonstration of the creativity and resourcefulness found throughout Vietnam.
Throughout the cruise, it was these everyday scenes that made the biggest impression. Homes and small businesses line the riverbanks, children wave as boats pass and local fishermen go about their daily routines. It offers travellers a genuine glimpse into life along one of Asia’s great rivers.
Evenings onboard were relaxed and social, with activities ranging from local music performances to quizzes and dancing with fellow travellers.
Exploring Saigon by Vintage Vespa
The journey concluded in Ho Chi Minh City, still widely known as Saigon, a dynamic city where tradition and modern life exist side by side.
For Megan, one of the most memorable experiences was exploring the city on the back of a vintage Vespa. With an estimated 18 million residents and around 14 million motorbikes, Saigon is famous for its energetic streets and constant movement.
The Vespa tour provided a unique way to experience the city, weaving through lively neighbourhoods and stopping at several interesting locations along the way. One stop included the colourful flower markets, where stalls are filled with vibrant blooms at remarkably affordable prices.
The final stop brought the group to a relaxed riverside area where many local young people gather in the evenings. It offered a glimpse into the social side of the city and the everyday lives of Saigon’s residents.
Why a Mekong River Cruise is So Special
For Megan, the Uniworld Mekong cruisetour delivered an incredible blend of culture, history and comfort.
From the ancient temples of Angkor Wat and the moving history of Phnom Penh to the peaceful waterways of the Mekong Delta and the energy of Saigon, every day revealed a new perspective on this remarkable region.
Experiences such as meeting local families, visiting schools, watching artisans at work and exploring markets made the journey feel authentic and deeply rewarding.
Returning each day to the comfort of the Mekong Jewel provided the perfect balance. With its intimate atmosphere, attentive service and excellent dining, the ship offered a welcoming retreat after each day of exploration.
For travellers considering Vietnam and Cambodia, a Mekong River cruise offers a wonderful way to experience both countries while enjoying the comfort and ease of a beautifully designed boutique river ship.
If you’ve been thinking about visiting Cambodia and Vietnam, or experiencing a river cruise along the Mekong, our travel experts can guide you through the details and help you plan a journey that allows you to experience this remarkable part of the world at its very best.