Why a luxury cruise is the best way to explore the Mekong

FROM the World Heritage-listed Temples of Angkor Wat to the bustling cities of Ho Chi Minh City, a luxury river cruise is certainly the best way to explore the Mekong.

Cruising the Mekong river

FROM the World Heritage-listed Temples of Angkor Wat to the bustling cities of Ho Chi Minh City, a luxury river cruise is certainly the best way to explore the Mekong.

Long recognised as one of Asia’s most dynamic countries, Vietnam is a kaleidoscope of colour and culture whilst Cambodia has blossomed into a captivating destination that will surprise and delight. A journey through these exotic countries is certainly not to be rushed and a river cruise along the Mekong with Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours allows you to take in all the sights and sounds in all-inclusive luxury.

Sailing the mighty Mekong River, Scenic Spirit provides you with a boutique and intimate environment with only 34 one-bedroom balcony suites. These are the most spacious suites on the Mekong with every suite enjoying a separate lounge, walk in wardrobe, bedroom and bathroom, a complimentary mini-bar, Wi-Fi, HDTV, individual climate control and pillow menu. To top it off, every suite has a Scenic Sun Lounge where you can read a book, watch the scenery pass you by or admire the sunset over a glass of wine.

For even more luxury, the expansive Royal Panorama Suites boast elegant lounge areas, oversized bathrooms and a private terrace featuring an outdoor Jacuzzi and daybed. These suites are great for anyone looking to celebrate a special anniversary, birthday or simply because you can.

Combining tradition and innovation, this boutique 5-star floating hotel offers unrivalled amenities and cutting-edge features with everything included in the price you pay including dining, beverages, exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences, Scenic Freechoice activities, butler service as well as tipping and transfers.

With an almost 1:1 guest to staff ratio, you will experience true personal service when cruising the Mekong river, whilst benefiting from the expert knowledge of local guides during onshore excursions.

Cool down with a refreshing swim in the sleek pool after your onshore excursions, enjoy your favourite cocktail with newfound friends at the Spirit Lounge and dine like a king in Crystal Dining – the main restaurant, with an à la carte menu changed daily. You’ll be spoilt for choice with the diverse and delicious food experiences, which are certainly one of the highlights of your Scenic river cruise.

During a luxurious Mekong river cruise with Scenic, you can enjoy exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences which take you behind the scenes to experience moments inaccessible to the ordinary traveller. Be wowed by a magical themed gala dinner at an Angkor temple featuring Apsara dancers in front of candle lit temple ruins, receive a monk’s blessing in Oudong, Cambodia and arrive in style by Tuk Tuk at Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Phnom Penh for an indulgent high tea and a signature cocktail named in honour of Jacqueline Kennedy.

These are certainly once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that will stay with you forever and can only be experienced on a luxury Scenic river cruise and tour.

As well as exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences, you have the choice of a diverse range of Scenic Freechoice activities to cater to your interests, at a pace that suits you best. Discover the streets of Ho Chi Minh City at night on a vintage Vespa, enjoy a hands-on cooking class in the lively Old Quarter of Hanoi or explore Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, home to a rich array of wildlife and birds.

For more in depth exploration of these beautiful countries, you can extend your stay in Vietnam and Cambodia at one of the handpicked hotels, ensuring your holiday becomes just that little bit more extraordinary. Stay in the heart of the city at the elegant Park Hyatt Siem Reap, offering a resort-style feel behind a residential façade and manicured gardens. Spend a few extra nights here before departing this fascinating region.

Originally published as Why a luxury cruise is the best way to explore the Mekong