Avalon offers Vietnam, Cambodia savings

Avalon Waterways has introduced savings of up to $500 p.p. on select 2013 cruises of the Mekong River in Southeast Asia. The cruises, on board the new Avalon Angkor travel to towns and past villages which reflect the river’s rich history and importance in the region. Bookings must be made by Nov. 13. Itineraries on sale range from 14 to 20 days in duration and some include extensions to Bangkok, Hanoi, or both. Ports of call include Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh, Hanoi and Ha Long Bay. Along the way, passengers will also visit smaller centres for cultural insights such as a rice paper factory, a Buddhist monastery, and water puppet performance. The Avalon Angkor, which was launched this year, accommodates just 32 passengers in spacious 172-square-foot outside cabins. A key feature of the ship is that it is the only one on the river able to cruise all the way from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap, which eliminates a seven-hour coach trip. Included in the cruise are all meals (wine is included at dinner, while coffee, tea, soft drinks and local beers are complimentary throughout the day); shore excursions; and on-board cultural insights such as local entertainment, artisans and experts. Sale prices start at $3,549 p.p., double (airfare extra). Space is strictly limited at these sale prices. (http://www.avalonwaterways.ca)