For Immediate Release
Zegrahm & Eco Expeditions
Exploring the Temples, Treasures and
Timeless Landscapes of Indochina
SEATTLE—There is but one tour of Vietnam and the ancient kingdom of Cambodia that transports travelers by land and sea to mysterious ancient pagodas, fascinating mythical deities, timeless colonial cities, and an impressive list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Zegrahm Expedtions’ 17-day Vietnam and Cambodia expedition, departing September 16, 2006 and September 8, 2007, journeys to ancient temples, along scenic coastlines and through colorful villages immersing passengers in culture, history, and captivating fables along the way.
“Travelers return from this expedition amazed by the overwhelming friendliness of the Vietnamese and Cambodian people and awed by the beauty of the landscape. This is a favorite destination for many—and an expedition not easily forgotten,” says Casey Marker, Director of Marketing at Zegrahm Expeditions.
As an additional trip highlight this year, guests will be accompanied by award-winning photographer Wolfgang Kaehler. Kaehler will present a detailed lecture on photography and provide individual instruction in composition, lighting and technique while capturing images of the people, landscapes and historic sites of the region, beginning with an impressive first day at Angkor Wat.
Angkor Wat, a World Heritage Site, is an imposing temple complex built by Khmer emperors during the 9th to 15th centuries. From here guests will travel to Phnom Penh to tour the comprehensive National Museum and the Silver Pagoda, which holds an extraordinary collection of Khmer craftsmanship and derives its name from the more than 5,000 silver tiles that adorn its floor.
Next, explore Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) before boarding the 110-passenger Clipper Odyssey for a 45-mile voyage down the meandering Saigon River then north along the Vietnam coast to Nha Trang. Stroll along the exquisite four-mile-long beach, travel to nearby islands for snorkeling along the striking coral or explore the well-preserved Cham Ponagar Temple complex.
In the following days travel via river boat to the shores of the fascinating Van Phong Bay; investigate the spectacular, 11th-century twin Cham Towers (among others) in the fishing village of Qui Nhon; explore Da Nang's excellent Cham Museum or visit World Heritage Site My Son, the site of extensive outdoor Cham ruins; then tour Hue, a UNESCO Site featuring the picturesque Dong Ba Market, the moat-rimmed citadel, the Imperial City, and the Thien Mu Pagoda.
Two popular highlights on the expedition include an exploration of Halong Bay and a performance at the Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi. Halong Bay is a fascinating archipelago of thousands of islets and rocky outcroppings. The ship anchors amid these dramatic limestone formations that rise majestically from the seabed. Guests will board Zodiacs to intimately explore the area, encountering floating fishing villages, Japanese-funded pearling farms, and white sandy beaches. In Hanoi, enjoy a private performance at the world-renowned Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. Puppet masters, waist-deep in water, entertain by operating marionettes in a pageant of Vietnamese legends.
Post-voyage extensions to the Vietnam Highlands and Laos are available. Every Zegrahm Expedition features deluxe accommodations, fine cuisine, and a lecture program that is the industry’s best. Rates vary according to category choice. For a detailed itinerary or to read a recent field report visit our destination section. For reservations call 800-628-8747 or 206-285-4000.
Note to editors: Images available for download |
