My time in Vietnam was an amazing adventure. To capture the entire 2 week experience in both Cambodia and Vietnam, the term I would use is ‘extraordinary’. Both countries have an amazing heritage and history that is both unique and intertwined

Starting the trip in Cambodia was the perfect choice. Day two was confronting with visits to ‘Tuol Sleng Museum’ and the ‘Killing Fields’. This provided an appropriate preface for the tour as it set the platform for the tragedies of our modern era. Then visiting the Royal Palace and a few days later the iconic Angkor Temples, provided a fitting backdrop to the rich,  proud history of Cambodia.

Shifting gears, the three nights at Camp Tbeng and the service learning  experience at Tbeng Primary was nothing but precious and invaluable. This provided an essential ingredient to stir the hearts of the entire touring group and the opportunity to ignite the desire to serve others.

The other component of the time in Cambodia that must be mentioned is the experience with the Phare Circus. After watching these gifted artists in action, to learn how to juggle, tumble turn, balance and cart wheel will remain a favorable memory in the years to come.

Moving into Vietnam was in itself, an unforgettable experience. Steeped in history, patriotism and vision  for the future, the week long adventure opened my eyes to admire and respect the people of Vietnam; their culture, sense of patriotism and their love for life. The visit to the war museums, the communist historical venues and the trip to Long Tan enlightened all the students to exactly what unfolded in the periods of war; providing a better education and insight into the exact facts and places that paint the picture clearer than any text book or class can provide.

The overnight excursion on the ‘Starlight’ at Ha Long Bay was my most cherished part of the trip. To sit in the jacuzzi and stare at the window at the mountainous islands was breath talking.

What made this tour complete were the expertise and personalised touch of the tour guides. In particular, Kea in Cambodia and Chi and Khan in Vietnam. They were experts and so friendly. You have the best tour guides on deck who are knowledgeable and have links with the best local guides.

Thank you for this amazing experience!

Geordie B.

NC travelled to Cambodia and Vietnam In June/July 2019