From Hanoi to Bangkok: A Mekong River Journey

This is one of those trips that truly feels like a journey of a lifetime.

Join me in August 2027 for an incredible adventure through Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand, combining some of Southeast Asia's most famous sights with an intimate river cruise along the legendary Mekong.

We'll begin in Hanoi, where centuries of history and tradition meet the energy of modern Vietnam. From there, we'll experience the extraordinary scenery of Ha Long Bay before traveling to Cambodia and Siem Reap, home to magnificent Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm and other ancient temples.

Then it's time to board the Avalon Saigon for our journey along the Mekong River. This is where we'll have opportunities to see a more personal side of Southeast Asia, visiting villages, markets, temples and local craftspeople along the way. Experiences include a traditional water blessing by Buddhist monks, an ox-cart ride through the Cambodian countryside, sampan rides, and visits with local families and artisans.

One of the things I especially love about this itinerary is that we don't have to choose between adventure and comfort. Avalon has planned beautiful accommodations throughout the journey, including the Lotte Hotel Hanoi, Park Hyatt Siem Reap, The Reverie Saigon and JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok, along with our time aboard the Avalon Saigon.

I also strongly recommend arriving one or two days early in Hanoi. After traveling such a long distance, having that extra night(s) gives you time to settle in, rest and begin adjusting to the time difference before our adventure officially begins. With the additional night(s), you'll arrive on August 4 or 5, 2027, with the Avalon itinerary beginning August 6.

This is not simply a river cruise. It's an immersive Southeast Asia experience by land, river and air, designed to let us see the famous places we've heard about for years while also experiencing everyday life, local traditions, food and culture along the way.

I hope you'll consider experiencing this incredible journey with me!

For the Mekong River portion of our journey, we'll be sailing aboard the Avalon Saigon, Avalon's most intimate Suite Ship. She carries a maximum of just 36 guests in only 18 Panorama Suites, so this will be a very different experience from sailing on a large river or ocean cruise ship. Her smaller size allows us to travel deeper into Southeast Asia and get closer to the villages, people and everyday life along the Mekong.

And while the ship may be small, the suites certainly aren't. Each Panorama Suite offers an impressive 245 square feet of space, with Avalon's signature wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows. The windows open a full nine feet to create Avalon's Open-Air Balcony, and even the beds face the river so you can watch Southeast Asia pass by from the comfort of your room.

With only 36 guests aboard, I think the Avalon Saigon is going to be a very special part of this journey. We'll have plenty of space to relax, including an air-conditioned Panorama Lounge and an open-air observation lounge, while still enjoying the personal service and relaxed atmosphere Avalon is known for.

Here’s a quick guide to help you find what you’re looking for:

When you’re ready, you can click “Sign Up Today” to choose your stateroom so I can start holding your space.

No rush at all. Please feel free to click around and take your time.

And if you have ANY questions, please feel free to give me a call, send me a text or send me a direct message. I’m here to answer your questions, help you through the details and make sure you have an AMAZING VACATION!

Kenneth