Q: I have long wanted to do the boat cruise down the Irrawaddy River in Burma, but am not keen to do so in the present political climate there. However, I believe there is an equally charming cruise down the Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia, but have not been able to find out much about it. Can you help with details of the trip, contact details for the operators and prices. - John Breitenbach.
A: The cruise along the Mekong is operated by a company called Pandaw Cruises. They have two boats plying the river, built in the design of 19th century paddle steamers. These four-deck boats, with 30 comfortable bedrooms and a total capacity of 60 people, offer a comfortable ride down this magnficent river. There is a sundeck on the top level where you can idly watch the countryside glide by, while a bar and lounge area occupy the next deck down. There are two cruise itineraries. The first is a seven-night trip from Ho Chi Minh City (the former Saigon) to Siem Reap, the site of the world-famous Angkor Wat ruins. The fare is 5137 US dollars for two people in a main deck room during peak (high water) season from October to March. The second is a three-night trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh. The rate is 2640 US dollars for a couple. The fare covers meals, bus transportation, excursions and some alcoholic drinks (local beer and basic cocktails), For further details check out the www.pandaw.com website. (3 May 2009)
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