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16th October 2025
Our Travel Associates advisors just returned from a one-of-a-kind boutique river adventure, cruising through Vietnam and Cambodia on the exceptional Aqua Mekong.
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Our advisors enjoyed a blissful boutique river cruise along the Mekong Delta with Aqua Expeditions.
When six of our advisors set off on a spectacular, all-inclusive journey aboard the Aqua Mekong with Aqua Expeditions, they didn’t just experience a luxury river cruise – they immersed themselves in the rich culture, history, and beauty of Vietnam and Cambodia, all in pursuit of the authentic travel experiences they’re so passionate about sharing with their clients. Over four magical nights, they sailed from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh on one of the world’s most acclaimed boutique river ships, discovering hidden villages, vibrant markets, spiritual temples, and unforgettable local encounters, along with luxury service at every turn.
From the moment they stepped aboard, the scene was set for something truly special. Our advisors agreed that the warm and friendly service, together with the ship’s sleek and elegant design, made it feel like they were entering a sanctuary. The spacious suites, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows and California king beds, created a sense of ease and refinement. “It was such a relaxed feeling – you didn’t even need to lock your door when you left your cabin. It felt like home”, says Jenni Triffitt of Perchalla & Turner Travel Associates.
Life Along the River: Cultured Cruising
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Exploring the vibrant Vietnamese markets was a feast for the senses and offered an authentic glimpse into everyday local life.
Day two brought immersive explorations of the Mekong Delta. In Binh Thanh, some advisors opted for a leisurely bike ride through the local markets and plantations. One of them was Kylie Wright, Business Leader at Wright & Turner Travel Associates in Wellington. Describing the sights and sounds, she says: “Cycling through the beautiful rice paddy fields was such a highlight. Passing local homes with children running out to wave and say hello made it feel incredibly welcoming.” Others joined a guided tour through Sa Dec’s lively markets, where they followed the ship’s head of food and beverage as he selected ingredients for upcoming meals. “It was a sensory journey of colours, spices, and sounds,” says Melissa Poole from Maria & Turner Travel Associates.
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Navigating the bustling, scooter-filled streets of Vietnam was an unforgettable experience.
The afternoon saw the group welcomed into the village of My An Hung with fresh fruit, folk songs, and the captivating energy of a traditional unicorn dance. “It felt like gliding into a peaceful oasis,” says Kylie, recalling the narrow waterways lined with coconut palms and stilted houses.
Smooth Sailing: Crossing the Border to Cambodia
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Aqua Mekong’s private skiffs provided exclusive, expertly guided excursions for a truly personalised off-ship experience.
On day three, skiffs carried the group to Chau Doc, where colourful rickshaws (known locally as “xe loi”) whisked them through bustling markets and to Long Son Pagoda atop Sam Mountain. One thing you can count on from this vantage point is breathtaking views across the Mekong Delta. Inside the pagoda, monks chanted softly, creating a spiritual ambiance that contrasted beautifully with the vivid life outside.
Crossing the border into Cambodia was noticeably serene. “The scenery became more open, rural and still,” noted Melissa Poole, marking a visual and cultural transition that further enriched the journey.
Cambodia’s Charm and Craftsmanship
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Our advisors experienced the calming presence of monks (L), and observed silk spinners at work (R).
In Cambodia, the group visited Koh Oknha Tey (or 'Silk Island"), where they watched artisans weaving the beloved Khmer kroma (scarf). “The silk spinners and production facility were so interesting. It was fascinating to see the amount of care and effort put into a single length of fabric,” says Paul Morris of Kennedy & Turner Travel Associates in Brisbane.
Later that day, they explored Preah Prosop, a rural village seemingly untouched by time, where they shared quiet moments in the presence of monks, and experienced a way of life preserved across generations. Kylie shares: “You feel like you’re stepping into a quieter, more traditional way of life, far removed from the bustle of modern cities.”
Exploring the Cambodian Capital: Phnom Penh
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Tuk-tuk and rickshaw rides were a fun and lively way to explore the vibrant streets. (L); Cambodia's Royal Palace is a true symbol of regal beauty. (R)
The final day began with tuk-tuk rides through Phnom Penh’s buzzing streets to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda – identified by all advisors as jewels of Khmer architecture. “We were lucky to arrive right at opening time,” says Jenni Triffitt, “which meant we could explore and capture stunning photos before the crowds arrived.”
Melissa Madigan from Travel Associates Paddington adds, “The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are architectural marvels, and definitely a must-see for visitors. The history and the wealth that is in both buildings is simply astonishing.”
The optional visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum offered a powerful, reflective counterpoint – aptly described by Paul Morris as “a sombre but important and enlightening experience.”
What Makes Aqua Expeditions One of a Kind?
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Guests are treated to Michelin-starred dining on board the Aqua Mekong, with menus inspired by the rich flavours of Vietnam and Cambodia.
For many of our advisors who were fortunate to go on this trip, the luxury was in the detail as well as the attentive service from the Aqua Mekong team. “Each time we returned from excursions, our shoes were cleaned and waiting in our suite. We were met with cold towels infused with the ship’s signature scent. It was so refreshing!” Melissa Madigan noted.
Dining was another highlight, with a menu crafted under the guidance of Michelin-starred consulting chef David Thompson. “All the food was exceptional. So fresh, so full of flavour”, says Jenni. “From a simple local pho or banh mi, to the family-style dining at dinner, all the food was top notch!”
Boutique River Cruising at its Best
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The boutique-sized Aqua Mekong has just 20 suites, offering a cosy, almost residential feel.
With just 20 suites, Aqua Expeditions’ Aqua Mekong is the epitome of luxury river cruising. It offers the social spaces of a larger ship – a movie room, spa, plunge pool, and gym – without compromising the intimacy and personalised service of a boutique vessel. Designed by renowned UAE-based architect Noor Design, its sleek modern interiors frame ever-changing views of the river through wall-to-wall windows.
Excursions were equally bespoke, with Aqua Mekong’s private fleet of skiffs ensuring every off-ship experience was exclusive and expertly guided. Rhiannon Pugh from Gungahlin Travel Associates says, "It did feel more like expedition cruising with the skiffs belonging to the boat. It meant we could explore the Mekong in more depth. And wow, did we explore the Mekong! The trip was definitely not long enough!" Whether boating, kayaking, biking, or simply strolling through local villages, each moment was curated for connection: with the culture, the history, and the landscape.
And then there were the unexpected moments that our team is still talking about: the bartender remembering your favourite drink, a surprise sunset beach party, the sound of monks chanting in the distance. “The Aqua crew really made us feel like family”, Melissa Poole shared.
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Though modest in size, the Aqua Mekong still delivers plenty of comforts, including a plunge pool alongside an inviting sun deck (L), and relaxation lounges (R), perfect for unwinding.
Distinctly unique, this isn't a run-of-the-mill river cruise but rather a carefully crafted journey that is more personalised to individual needs and wants. As Rhiannon shares: "This trip was quite different to what you'd expect from other river cruises. You had a choice to do bike rides through villages and farm land, kayak along the river bank, head back to the ship and relax in the pool or get a massage - there really was something for everyone."
Experience the Mekong with Travel Associates
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Our advisors toasting to a one-of-a-kind journey through Vietnam and Cambodia, hosted by Aqua Expeditions.
Whether you’re an intrepid explorer or a seeker of slow, luxury travel, the Aqua Mekong offers a deeply enriching and effortlessly elegant way to experience Southeast Asia. From the heart of bustling Ho Chi Minh City to the golden spires of Phnom Penh (and all the hidden moments in between), this is a journey where the river tells the story, and you become part of it – as our Travel Associates advisors came to experience themselves.
