Flight canceled due to Hurricane Milton.
Rescheduled to leave on 10/13.
tour
10/13/2024 – 10/14/2024
Travel Day.
Fly to Tokyo On Delta
- Depart Tampa at 6:21 am 10/13 and arrived in Atlanta at 7:42 am
- Depart Atlanta at 10:12 am and arrived in Japan at 1:36 pm 10/14.
Cleared customs and collected luggage, transfed from the airport and checked in at Daiwa Roynet Hotel Nishi Shinjuku in Tokyo
5 PM Small group food tour (didn’t make it)
Japan 10/15/2024
Mt Fuji and Hakone Sightseeing by Bullet Train
We used public transportation.
- 9:00 meeting with Marie, our guide, at the Tokio or Shinagawa station
- 9:34 bullet train to Odawara from Shinagawa/Tokyo, then change to Odakyuu lines
- 11:00 Cable car through splendid nature of Japanese mountains.
- 12:00 Rope way above a sulfur fields, view of Mt. Fuji – if weather permits.
- 13:00 – 14:00 Lunch at Owakudani and Black egg eating experience.
- 14:30 Pirate ship boarding and cruise on lake Ashi – view of Mt. Fuji, if weather permits.
- 15:30 Floating gate of Hakone jinja or Checking point 16:30 Bus to Hakone Yumoto.
- 17:30 Bullet train back to Shinagawa/Tokyo.
- 18:00 -18:30 Estimated arrival to your hotel in central Tokyo.
What it’s like to ride on a fast train
Japan 10/16/2024
Kyoto
We check out from Daiwa Roynet Hotel Nishi Shinjuku then took a taxi to Tokyo Station where we borded a Buttet Train to Kyoto.
In good weather, you can see Mt. Fuji from the train on the way to Kyoto. Due to cloud cover we saw what we though was Mt. Fuji.
Arrive in Kyoto at 10:51 and walked to our hotel at the DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station
We took a taxi to meet at Ben’s Cookies at 6 pm and headed to the Kyoto Gion Geisha District for the “The Stories of Geisha” tour.
Statue of Izumo-no-Okuni The Izumono Okuni Statue in Kyoto is a bronze sculpture dedicated to Okuni, a legendary figure considered the founder of Kabuki theater. Located in the Gion district, this statue pays homage to Okuni’s pioneering contributions to Japanese performing arts. Okuni is believed to have originated Kabuki in the early 17th century, and her statue serves as a symbol of the art form’s rich history in Kyoto.
Minamiza Theater is a historic theater in Kyoto, Japan, renowned for hosting traditional Kabuki performances. Kabuki is a unique Japanese theater art known for elaborate costumes and dramatic storytelling, often featuring historical themes.
Tatsumi Bridge Gion Shinbashi is a charming neighborhood in Kyoto, Japan, known for its picturesque streets, traditional tea houses, and geisha culture. One of its notable features is the Tatsumi Bridge, a historic bridge that spans the Shirakawa Canal. Tatsumi Bridge provides a scenic view of the canal and the surrounding wooden machiya houses, creating a serene atmosphere that transports visitors to the old-world charm of Kyoto. Gion Shinbashi and Tatsumi Bridge offer a glimpse into the timeless beauty and cultural heritage of Kyoto.
Hanamikoji Street Hanami Koji Street is a picturesque and historic thoroughfare located in the Gion district of Kyoto, Japan. This iconic street is renowned for its traditional machiya houses, upscale restaurants, teahouses, and a glimpse into the world of geisha and maiko culture. Wandering along Hanami Koji, we see the ambiance of old Japan with its well-preserved wooden buildings and lantern-lit evenings.
Gion Corner is a cultural center and performance venue located in the historic Gion district of Kyoto, Japan. It offers visitors a condensed experience of traditional Japanese arts and culture, showcasing a variety of art forms such as tea ceremony, flower arrangement (ikebana), traditional music (koto and shamisen), and the enchanting world of geisha and maiko. The performances at Gion Corner provide an opportunity to witness and appreciate the elegance and beauty of Japanese traditions.
Yasaka Shrine Yasaka Shrine, also known as Yasaka Jinja or Gion Shrine, is a historic Shinto shrine located in the Gion district of Kyoto, Japan. It is one of the most prominent and visited shrines in the city, known for its vibrant festivals and cultural significance. Founded over a thousand years ago, Yasaka Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto and later became associated with the protective deity of Gion, especially during the Gion Matsuri festival, one of Japan’s most famous annual festivals. The shrine’s iconic vermilion gates, lanterns, and beautiful architecture make it a popular attraction and a symbol of Kyoto’s traditional charm.
Japan 10/17/2024
Highlights of Kyoto
Kenji met us in the hotel lobby at 9:30 am.
Kyoto’s famed Bamboo Forrest.
Kinkakuji-Temple(Golden Pavilion) Zen temple, a must-see tourist spot very popularly known as “Golden Pavilion”
Kinkakuji Temple Souvenir ticket
Lunch time, Kenji and Steve had a traditional Japanese lunch while Janet had a crazy ice cream dessert that she shared.
Kiyomizudera-Temple One of the oldest temple, famous for a large veranda jutting out over the cliff with panoramic view
Fushimi-Inari Taisha (Shrine) Head shrine of 30000 Inari sub-shrines all over Japan, very famous for thousands of beautiful red shrine gates.
The rest of the pictures of that amazing day.
China 10/18/2024
Travel Day to Hong Kong
8:30 am – Transfered from Hotel to Airport
12:41 pm – Depart from Kansai International Airport – Japan
Transfer from Airport to Cruise Port, boarded ship for Sea Cruise
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China 10/19/2024
Hong Kong
Viking Ocean Cruises
A British Overseas Territory until 1997, Hong Kong is home to long-cherished Eastern traditions amid modern Western sensibilities. This forest of glittering skyscrapers stands between soaring mountains and bustling Victoria Harbour. The entire sweeping vista is best taken in from atop Victoria Peak, lush with landscaped gardens and footpaths. Back down at sea level, Aberdeen provides a fascinating glimpse of China old and new as a skyward-reaching cluster of residential towers watches over a bustling bay where floating villages bob in the waters beside stylish pleasure boats.
12:00 pm – 5 hours 30 minutes – Postcards of Hong Kong Tour
See the legendary highlights of Hong Kong, from its sweeping vistas to its most intimate corners.
Meet your guide and ascend to Victoria Peak, the 1,800-foot summit that soars over the city’s skyscrapers. Known as “the Peak” by locals, it offers breathtaking views of the metropolis, Victoria Harbor and Kowloon Peninsula. Along Hong Kong Island’s south shore, browse the open air Stanley Market, a picturesque warren of lanes lined with a rich array of open air stalls selling clothing, jewelry, ornaments and various keepsakes.
Next, embark a traditional sampan for a cruise through the harbor’s floating village, where hundreds of people live on fishing junks—a stark contrast to the high-rise community that has risen on the island.
South China Sea 10/20/2024
Full day at sea. Next Stop. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Vietnam 10/21/2024
Ha Long Bay
More than 1,600 islands of towering limestone dot the seascape of Ha Long Bay. Among them, Vietnam emerges at its most authentic. Fishermen cast their nets into the bay, villages hug the shores and children play in the waters as traditional junks drift by. As local lore has it, dragons created this magnificent place when the gods sent them to the coast to protect locals from marauders. The protective beasts breathed countless jewels into the bay, sinking the approaching ships—and creating a spellbinding canvas of mystical-looking monoliths.
Ha Long Bay by Junk – Tour
Went on a scenic and serene cruise on an authentic junk through one of the world’s most magnificent landscapes.
Ha Long Bay is home to about 2,000 limestone islands rising from the water to astonishing heights. Legend says they were created by dragons who breathed out jewels into the bay to prevent enemy ships from coming ashore. For centuries, fishermen and merchants have navigated this archipelago, a labyrinthine emerald-green waterway winding among vertical cliffs draped in brush and forest. You will follow in their wake as you board an authentic Vietnamese junk, a traditional rectangular boat topped by a fan-shaped sail. These iconic vessels have plied these waters for 1,800 years. As you join the countless sailors who have explored these waters before, observe the fishermen casting their nets and the soaring heights of karst walls.
Vietnam 10/22/2024
Ha Long Bay
Today we visted a local market via bus.
At 1 PM we depart Ha Long Bay and sail to another sea side city of Hue.
Vietnam 10/23/2024
Hue
Arrive at 8:00 am
Chan May serves as a gateway to the fascinating and historic city of Hue, scenically set along the Perfume River. From 1802 to 1945, this was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors. Numerous historic monuments from that period remain, including the massive walled Imperial City, built in the 19th century, that once housed the country’s most extravagant temples and royal residences and was hailed as the center of politics, religion and culture. Among the Imperial City’s treasures are palaces, shrines and the Forbidden Purple City.
Vietnam 10/24/2024
Sail the South China Sea
Another rest day!!!
Sail one of the world’s most important waterways; one-third of all commercial shipping passes through these waters.
Vietnam 10/25/2024
Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City 12:00 pm
Founded as a small fishing village, Ho Chi Minh City is now Vietnam’s largest city. Though still commonly called Saigon, locals are as likely to simplify the name of their hometown to HCMC. No matter what you call it, it is a seamless blend of history and modern youthful energy, where pagodas and French colonial grandeur mingle with bustling old-world marketplaces and modern skyscrapers, all against a constant buzz of motor scooters and trill of bicycle bells. From enduring, narrow alleyways to wide, Parisian-style boulevards, Ho Chi Minh City has an identity all its own.
5 hours tour of the Scenic Ho Chi Minh City
Witness Ho Chi Minh City’s rich blend of Vietnamese traditions, Chinese influence and French colonial architecture.
Join your guide and drive into the city, abuzz with scooters and bicycles. View the Reunification Palace, home to South Vietnam’s president during the Vietnam War. Continue past the soaring neo-Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral, with its twin bell towers, and the elegant Central Post Office—a masterwork of Gothic, Renaissance and French styles. Stop for photos at the Municipal Theater, which was modeled after the Opéra Garnier in Paris. In Chinatown, travel through its red lantern-adorned courtyard to admire the exquisite woodwork and statuary of the incense-fragranced inner sanctum. Pass by Bình Tây Market, a colorful clothing marketplace, before stopping at a lacquer workshop. Here, witness artisans at work and browse their finely crafted wares before returning to your ship.
Vietnam 10/26/2024
Ho Chi Minh City
Founded as a small fishing village, Ho Chi Minh City is now Vietnam’s largest city. Though still commonly called Saigon, locals are as likely to simplify the name of their hometown to HCMC. No matter what you call it, it is a seamless blend of history and modern youthful energy, where pagodas and French colonial grandeur mingle with bustling old-world marketplaces and modern skyscrapers, all against a constant buzz of motor scooters and trill of bicycle bells. From enduring, narrow alleyways to wide, Parisian-style boulevards, Ho Chi Minh City has an identity all its own.
10.5 hour tour of Mekong Delta “Vietnam’s Rice Bowl”
Immerse yourself in the rich agriculture and remarkable beauty of the Mekong Delta.
This vast and fertile network of crisscrossing waterways leads to the South China Sea. Drive with your guide through the countryside to the small town of Cái Bè, home to a bustling floating market and a French colonial-era Romanesque cathedral. Here, enjoy lunch before embarking on a boat for a fascinating glimpse of life along the Mekong River. Farmers and fishermen have earned a living here for generations, often living right on the water’s edge in rustic homes. Visit with these delta residents and learn how they make traditional treats, including dried longans, rice pancakes and puffed rice candies. Sample these local favorites before continuing through the narrow waterways lined with lush green orchards and canals. Then, you will return to the mainland and your ship.
Vietnam 10/27/2024
Ho Chi Minh City
Founded as a small fishing village, Ho Chi Minh City is now Vietnam’s largest city. Though still commonly called Saigon, locals are as likely to simplify the name of their hometown to HCMC. No matter what you call it, it is a seamless blend of history and modern youthful energy, where pagodas and French colonial grandeur mingle with bustling old-world marketplaces and modern skyscrapers, all against a constant buzz of motor scooters and trill of bicycle bells. From enduring, narrow alleyways to wide, Parisian-style boulevards, Ho Chi Minh City has an identity all its own.
6.5 hour Iconic Bến Thành Market & Traditional Vietnamese Medicine
Genuine Vietnamese Food and Ancient Herbal Practices
Delight your senses on a tour of Bến Thành Market and discover the roots of ancient Vietnamese herbal medicine.
Visit the FITO Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine and Pharmacy and take a journey through the centuries to learn about the ancient practices once favored by physicians. Next, tantalize your taste buds during a visit to Bến Thành—the place for finding genuine Vietnamese food. Discover a profusion of eye-popping food displays and tempting dishes, including Vietnamese pancakes (banh xeo), spring rolls (goi cuon), steamed rice cakes (banh beo) and noodle soup (pho), and explore its array of handicrafts, lacquerware and embroidery. Then head to Ngon Restaurant, also known as “la maison jaune” due to its bright yellow exterior. Here, enjoy a lunch featuring a range of classic Vietnamese dishes, each exemplifying the succulent simplicity of northern and southern street fare.
Gulf of Thailand 10/28/2024
Scenic Sailing: Gulf of Thailand
REST DAY!
The Gulf of Thailand, the massive sea basin bordered by Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia, is still known as the Gulf of Siam to the Malay and Khmer people. Long stretches of sandy beach, low-lying emerald hills and soaring mountains surround this oval-shaped gulf. The lush hills of Botum Sakor National Park unfold north of Sihanoukville, Cambodia. Along Thailand’s shores, several beach-ringed islands point the way to Laem Chabang port.
Cambodia 10/29/2024
Sihanoukville Cambodia
Arrive at 7:00 am
Sihanoukville is perched on the end of a scenic elevated peninsula. Its almost uninterrupted stretch of sandy shores and turquoise waters lend it one of the nation’s most picturesque settings. This sleepy city was developed after the French departed, so its streets are lined with less fanciful examples of New Khmer architecture and traveled by modern-day tuk-tuks, carriages pulled by motorcycle. The city’s many beaches and offshore islands draw locals and visitors alike, making this one of Cambodia’s prime seaside resorts.
4 hour tour of Phnom Penh Highlights – Buddhist Temple, Royal Palace and Central Market
Discover Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia located along the shores of the Mekong River.
Embark your motor coach for a panoramic ride through central Cambodia. Arrive in Phnom Penh and visit Wat Phnom, the main Buddhist temple built in 1372 that is the tallest religious structure in the city. Explore the shady gardens and climb the stairs that lead to the main shrine, where you can admire the colorful frescoes and golden statue of Buddha. After a delicious lunch, visit the 19th-century riverside Royal Palace and admire the elegant Silver Pagoda, the imposing Throne Hall and many other pavilions within the complex. Cap your visit to Phnom Penh at the art deco-style Central Market, a giant mall built in 1937 that caters to tourists and locals alike. Take time to browse the different vendors, selling everything from electronics to luxury watches and jewelry.
Cambodia 10/30/2024
Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville is perched on the end of a scenic elevated peninsula. Its almost uninterrupted stretch of sandy shores and turquoise waters lend it one of the nation’s most picturesque settings. This sleepy city was developed after the French departed, so its streets are lined with less fanciful examples of New Khmer architecture and traveled by modern-day tuk-tuks, carriages pulled by motorcycle. The city’s many beaches and offshore islands draw locals and visitors alike, making this one of Cambodia’s prime seaside resorts.
3.5 hours Sihanoukville Discovery – Glimpse Khmer Life in a Seaside Town and Visit a Buddhist Temple
Enjoy an overview of Cambodia’s thriving beachside communities as you visit a temple and fishing village.
Meet your guide and drive into the hills to Wat Krom. Within, you can admire its vivid murals and brightly colored sculptures depicting the Buddha. You may pause during your visit to talk with one of the resident monks who reside in the adjacent monastery. Return to the shore to walk along Independence Beach, following in the footsteps of Jacqueline Kennedy, who strolled these sands in 1967 during her Cambodia tour. Her visit helped to repair the relationship between the two countries and was fundamental in easing political tensions. Continue your journey along the coast to the tiny fishing village of Tumnob Rolok, where the pace of life is slow and fishermen prepare the day’s catch for market. After time to explore, you will return to your ship and sail to Bangkok
Thailand 10/31/2024
Bangkok
Often called the “City of Angels,” Bangkok is Thailand’s largest and most populous city. A sprawling and heady mix of modern skyscrapers, floating markets and longtail boats skimming the Chao Phraya River, the scintillating capital of old Siam engages all the senses. Yet it all seems devoutly grounded by the presence of its revered gilded wats, or temples. Wat Arun, in particular, can be seen from all corners of the city. This majestic riverside “Temple of Dawn” catches the first light of each day like a pearl, casting a soft glow on one of Asia’s most remarkable cities.
10 hour tour of Bangkok in Depth – Explore by Land, River and Canals
Immerse yourself in the culture of Bangkok as you explore this fascinating city.
With your guide, drive to the Thai capital’s most important landmark, Phra Borom Maha Ratcha Wang. Since 1782, it has housed the kings of the Chakri dynasty, the rulers of Siam. The Grand Palace—with its gold temples, pavilions and gardens—centers on Wat Phra Kaew, the temple that houses the Emerald Buddha. It is Thailand’s most revered icon. Continue to Wat Pho, home to the Reclining Buddha. Ferry across the Chao Phraya River for lunch at a riverside Thai restaurant. Then cruise along the Chao Phraya, the heart of Bangkok. Explore the city’s legendary khlongs (canals). Pass Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), adorned with ceramics that glitter in the sun. Please note that modest dress is required to enter temples and shoes must be removed before entering the Emerald Buddha
Thailand 11/01/2024
Disembark Ship
8 hours Private Guided Tour
The ship is ported at Laem Chebang. This 1.5-2 hours away from the center of Bangkok. Chawanit will pick you up at the port, tour all day with you and then drop you off at the airport for your late-night flight.
11am Start escorting you to see the Golden Buddha Temple, Chinatown, Flower Market, Wang Lang
Market, Wat Arun, Jim Thomson House, and at the end of the tour, you will be transported by our driver
to drop you off at the airport around 7 pm or earlier
South Korea 11/02/2024
Arive in South Korea
12:31 am Depart from Suvarnabhumi Airport, Tialand
7:44 am Arrive at Incheon International Airport, South Korea
Check in at Design Hotel Ddul This hotel is located in Pyeongtaek.
Didn’t care for the hotel (not anything like the website), moved to The Hound Hotel.
South Korea 11/03 -11/10
11/11/2024
1:45 pm – Transfer from Hotel to Airport
Orginal flight from S.Korea canceled.
6:25 pm – Depart from 인천국제공항 (Incheon International Airport – ICN)
Arrive at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) (Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport)
New Arrived location at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWA)
Depart from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) (Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport)
11/12/2024
12:22 am – Arrival – Eastern Standard Time