TEMPLES OF ANGKOR

There are a few ancient structures in this world that simply boggle the mind when contemplating the work and artistry required to build them. These include the Great Wall in China, the Pyramids in Egypt, Machu Picchu in Peru, and also the Temples of Angkor in Cambodia. They were built between the 9th and 14th centuries, when the Khmer civilization was at the height of its extraordinary creativity. Unparalleled in South-East Asia, Angkor rates among the foremost architectural wonders of the world. Participants in our “Phoenix Rising” tour to Vietnam are encouraged to make the most of their visit to this region of the world by going a few days early in order to take in the extraordinary sights of Angkor.

THE ITINERARY

Tuesday, May 25, 2004
Depart the U.S.

Depart your home city today on an overnight international flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), arriving tomorrow.

Wednesday, May 26, 2004
Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City

Upon arrival in the city that locals still call Saigon, clear customs and immigration then exit the arrivals hall. You will be met and transferred to our hotel near the airport to rest from your long flight and be prepared for an early departure tomorrow. Overnight at the Novotel Hotel.     (No Meals)

Thursday, May 27, 2004
Fly to Siem Reap / Touring Angkor

After breakfast at the hotel this morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival you will be met by your guide and taken immediately to the Southern Gate of Angkor Thom. Visit all the major sites at Angkor Thom, including the famous Bayon complex (second only to Angkor Wat in popularity), the Phimeanakas Temples, the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. Check into our famous hotel, the ultimate in luxury for this region: the Raffles Grand Hotel D'Angkor.
     After lunch continue touring with a visit to the temple of Ta Prohm. Unlike the other monuments of Angkor, it has been left to be swallowed by the jungle, and looks very much the way most of the monuments of Angkor appeared when explorers first stumbled upon them. It is a unique, other-world experience reminding us of the awesome power of the jungle.
     Finally, visit the largest and most breathtaking of the monuments—Angkor Wat. It is the best preserved, and never fails to reward repeat visitors with previously unnoticed details. The casual visitor is awe-struck by its imposing grandeur and fascinating details, but it will be useful to study in advance some of the symbolism of its layout and design to enhance your appreciation. We highly recommend the Lonely Planet Cambodia Guidebook!
     Reward yourself at the conclusion of this unforgettable day with a climb up the seven-level temple mountain of Phnom Bakheng for an inspiring view of Angkor Wat at sunset. To get a good photo you might want to bring a telephoto lens and tripod. It is possible to arrange an elephant ride up the hill, and the location ensures it will be one of the more memorable journeys you will ever make! We enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, and overnight at the Raffles Grand Hotel D'Angkor.     (All Meals)

Friday, May 28, 2004
Touring the Temples of Angkor

After breakfast at the hotel, continue touring the amazing Temples of Angkor. Featured this morning will be the Temples of Pre Rup, Eastern Mebon, Ta Som, Preah Neak Pean and Preah Khan. After lunch, continue with a visit to the Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda Temples, and the Spean Thma ancient stone bridge. Next see the Gate of Death, a memorial at the mass grave of hundreds of victims of the Khmer Rouge. Nearby is the Sras Srang (Pool of Ablutions). Finally visit the partially restored towers of Prasat Kravan, notable for the bas-reliefs cut into the bricks on the interior walls. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and a final night at the Raffles Grand Hotel D'Angkor.     (All Meals)

Saturday, May 29, 2004
Siem Reap to Saigon

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the Siem Reap airport for the flight back to Saigon. After clearing customs the group will be transferred to our downtown hotel, the New World Hotel, to join the other tour participants who arrive today.     (Breakfast / Welcome Dinner)