Exotic Vietnam & Ankor Wat | October 31 - November 15, 2020

Cruise for seven nights along serene and storied shores aboard the specially-chartered, Five-Star LE LAPÉROUSE. Explore captivating treasures from ancient pagodas, to dynamic modern architecture, and sampan‑filled harbors. Further inland, discover the magnificent 12th-century temples and sculptures of Angkor, the capital of the Khmer Empire and one of the world’s most important UNESCO World Heritage sites, located in the lush jungles of Cambodia. This exceptional itinerary encompasses the breadth of Vietnamese culture and the jungle-fringed ruins and magnificent temples of Angkor Wat, steeped in mystery yet revealing testaments to religious, imperial, and artistic traditions of Cambodia.

By exclusive arrangement, South Vietnamese-born Kim Phuc, a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Peace; and former news correspondent and media consultant Jim Laurie will accompany us on this cruise. Hear a firsthand account from Phuc who witnessed the war’s napalm attacks as a child. Learn more about the fall of Saigon from Laurie, winner of two Emmy Awards and a Peabody Award for his coverage of the Vietnam War.

This unique program features four UNESCO World Heritage sites—beautiful Ha Long Bay, ancient Hội An, the Forbidden Purple City in Hué, and the famed Temple of Angkor Wat. Experience dynamic Hanoi, Vietnam’s culturally diverse capital showcasing a fusion of French and Asian heritage, and sail in a traditional Vietnamese junk past the limestone karst pillars and forested islands of majestic Ha Long Bay. Walk among the incredible fortifications of Hué’s imperial Forbidden Purple City, mingle with local artisans in the lively riverfront market of Hội An, and admire its colorful and intricately carved Assembly Hall. Explore the spectacular contrast of old and new architecture in historic, French‑Colonial Saigon. The allure of ancient customs and colorful traditions await you on this unique voyage. Space is limited, and will be shared with participants from cosponsoring alumni associations.