If Week 1 of our Asia trip was about finding our rhythm, Week 2 was about leaning all the way in. In this chapter of our Cambodia and Vietnam travel blog, we explored ancient wonders, emotional histories, and unforgettable landscapes. From sunrise at Angkor Wat to floating in Halong Bay, it was a week filled with tuk tuks, temples, tunnels, and one very memorable birthday.
Even with a nasty cold keeping me down for part of it, I ended Week 2 feeling inspired and grateful for the chance to travel these incredible countries.
👉 Want more trip inspiration? Explore other posts in my Asia travel blog series or schedule a consultation to plan your own Southeast Asia journey.
Day 8 – Siem Reap, Cambodia: Karma, Stilts, and Solo Exploring
While I recovered from being sick, Brett explored a dry-season stilted village, stumbled into an unexpected frat-party-turned-karma-lesson, and showed us the beauty of Cambodian contrasts.
📍 Read the full Day 8 recap here
Day 9 – Sunrise at Angkor Wat and a Mystery Lunch Twist
We woke up at 3 AM to watch sunrise over Angkor Wat. No fiery sky, but plenty of magic. After exploring five temples and spotting monkeys, we ended the day with a lunch Lilly will never forget (let’s just say imitation crab is a hot topic).
📍 Read the full Day 9 recap here
Day 10 – Hero Rats and a Birthday in Cambodia
At APOPO, we met the life-saving “hero rats” trained to sniff out landmines. Later, I celebrated my birthday Khmer-style—with massages, cocktails, and a dreamy lunch before our flight to Vietnam.
📍 Read the full Day 10 recap here
Day 11 – Cu Chi Tunnels and a Side of Propaganda
In Ho Chi Minh City, we crawled through the Cu Chi Tunnels, visited an art center supporting Agent Orange victims, and ended the day with pho, chocolate, and reflection.
📍 Read the full Day 11 recap here
Days 12–13 – Halong Bay: Kayaks, Cobra Whiskey, and Fish Spa Giggles
Off the grid in Halong Bay, we kayaked, hiked jungles, sampled unusual rice wine, and laughed our way through fish spas. Breathtaking views and endless giggles made this an unforgettable highlight.
📍 Read the full Days 12–13 recap here
Day 14 – Spring Rolls and Train Street (Almost)
After a final morning on the bay, we explored Hanoi with bubble tea, fruit-carving demos, and spring rolls before a failed (but hilarious) attempt to find Train Street. Full hearts, tired feet, and happy bellies carried us to the airport.
📍 Read the full Day 14 recap here
✈️ Up Next: Konnichiwa, Japan! 🇯🇵
Week 3 brings us to Japan—sushi, Shibuya Crossing, animal cafés, and the most organized transit system in the world. Buckle up—it’s about to get exciting.
Thanks for following along with this Cambodia and Vietnam travel blog. Have questions about these destinations—or want help planning your own Asia adventure? Let’s chat.
