Magnificent Mekong

Enjoy an excursion to the scenic Twin Holy Mountains of Phnom Pros and Phnom Srey, Man Hill and Woman Hill. Meet your guide and drive by motor coach into the countryside to see this pair of summits. Upon arrival, marvel at the enormous gilded Buddha statuary at the base of the mountains and the memorial stupas placed here to honor those lost in the Killing Fields during the dark era of the Khmer Rouge. The gardens here are still used during traditional festivals. Admire the Phnom Pros pagoda on its namesake summit; atop Phnom Srey, a few nuns have taken up residence to maintain the temple there. During your visit, you might encounter some of the playful monkeys that call these hills home. Afterward, visit a nearby village, where you will meet farmers and artisans who will welcome you into their homes and show off their craftwork while you learn about this self-sustaining community.

Witness an age-old Cambodian craft performed by skilled village artisans. Disembark and take a short drive to Koh Oknha Tay, a typical Khmer river community where weaving has survived in this modern age thanks to the commitment of younger generations and the efforts of some homegrown industries. Centuries ago, Cambodia was a major trade center along a route known as the Ocean Silk Road. Silk weaving was so common that many raised their own silkworms; even the bas-reliefs of Angkor Wat depict various elements of the silk trade. Today’s silk-weaving villages are an echo of those days, when exquisite fabrics were meticulously created by hand. During your visit, observe the operation of hand looms and the skill required for dyeing and spinning as you stroll the modest village atmosphere. You may purchase some items from silk sellers if you would like.

Enjoy a night ride through Phnom Penh to glimpse this impressive city in a new light. Meet your skilled driver, climb into the back of a tuk-tuk and drive through the colorful streets of Phnom Penh to arrive at your first stop, the historic Wat Phnom, a temple constructed in 1372. See this ancient structure before continuing through the bustling city to see more of its incredible sites, including the Raffles Le Royal Hotel, a French colonial-style hotel. Pause to take in the Independence Monument, which commemorates Cambodia’s independence from the French in 1953, and illuminated in the vibrant colors of the national flag. Travel through some of the city’s new neighborhoods to see how it has expanded. Finally, ascend to a sky bar for a panoramic view of the city and the streets you have traveled on from a new angle before returning to your ship.