Celebrating 50 on the Mekong: My Scenic Spirit Journey

Turning 50 felt like the perfect time to do something truly special. In January 2024 I headed to Southeast Asia for a luxury Mekong river cruise that combined culture, comfort and a real sense of occasion.

I flew with Singapore Airlines from London to Ho Chi Minh City via Singapore, then joined Scenic Spirit for a stunning sailing along the Mekong from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam to Siem Reap in Cambodia.

Either side of the cruise, I stayed in two iconic hotels:

• Pre‑cruise: 2 nights at the Caravelle Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
• Post‑cruise: 2 nights at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap

On board I stayed in a Deluxe Veranda Suite, enjoyed all the included excursions and treated myself to a very good‑value full body massage in the ship’s spa. Along the way I explored Saigon’s energy, the tranquil life of the Mekong, Phnom Penh’s powerful recent history and the temples and nightlife of Siem Reap, including the legendary Pub Street.

If you are an empty‑nest couple, a professional couple in your 40s to 60s, a solo traveller or part of a specialist interest group, and you are curious about luxury Mekong river cruising, this guide will give you an honest, first‑hand feel for the experience.

Life on Board Scenic Spirit

A Boutique Floating Hotel

Scenic Spirit is a purpose‑built, all‑suite ship designed specifically for the Mekong. With around 68 guests on board, it feels more like a boutique hotel than a traditional cruise ship: intimate, stylish and wonderfully relaxed.

The interiors blend contemporary comfort with local touches, and the ship’s layout makes the most of the scenery: wide windows, outdoor spaces and plenty of quiet corners to watch daily life unfold along the riverbanks.

My Deluxe Veranda Suite

I stayed in a Deluxe Veranda Suite, which I would happily describe as a “mini apartment” rather than just a cabin. Key features that really stood out:

• Separate living and sleeping areas, so you are not perched on the edge of your bed every time you want to sit down.
• A proper walk‑in wardrobe, which makes a surprising difference when you are away for a couple of weeks and want to keep things tidy.
• Scenic’s signature Sun Lounge balcony concept: floor‑to‑ceiling glass that lowers to transform your enclosed lounge into an open‑air balcony at the touch of a button. Perfect for watching the sunrise or evening life along the river.
• A stylish bathroom with a good‑sized shower and quality amenities, so you do not need to drag half your bathroom cabinet from home.

After hot days ashore, the suite became a calm, cool sanctuary: you can close the door, enjoy a drink, catch up on the day’s photos and still feel connected to the river through those big windows.

Food & Drink: Local Flavours and Familiar Favourites

Food is a real highlight on Scenic Spirit, and crucially it is all‑inclusive, including most drinks.

On a typical day you can expect:

• Breakfast: a generous buffet with cooked options, pastries, fresh fruit and local dishes if you want to start the day like a local.
• Lunch: relaxed buffet or semi‑buffet with salads, hot dishes and freshly cooked specials.
• Dinner: multi‑course, served meals with a choice of international classics and beautifully presented Vietnamese and Cambodian recipes.

There are also lighter options in the lounge and café, plus speciality dining events which feel more like an intimate dinner party than a restaurant. Wines, beers and a good choice of spirits are included, along with soft drinks, speciality coffees and teas.

The culinary team are very happy to cater for preferences and gently encourage you to try local dishes. You can be as adventurous or as conservative as you like.

Facilities & That Relaxing Onboard Massage

For a relatively small ship, Scenic Spirit is impressively well equipped:

• A sun deck with pool that becomes everyone’s favourite place on a hot afternoon.
• A wellness area and small gym for those who like to keep moving between meals.
• A spa where I enjoyed a full‑body massage that was excellent value, professional and exactly what my jet‑lagged shoulders needed.
• A stylish Panorama Lounge & bar, which serves as the heart of the ship for briefings, evening entertainment and relaxed social time.

It is the kind of ship where you quickly fall into a rhythm: excursions in the morning, a cool drink and lunch, perhaps a swim or spa treatment, then a gentle afternoon on deck or in the lounge watching the Mekong glide past.

Service, Staff and Included Excursions

Scenic is known for genuinely all‑inclusive luxury and that really shows on this itinerary:

• The staff‑to‑guest ratio is very high, so crew quickly learn your name and preferences. It feels personal without ever being intrusive.
• Expert local guides come on board to accompany excursions: they are the ones who bring the Vietnam War history and Khmer Rouge period to life with context and personal stories.
• Excursions are included, usually with a choice of pace or focus, which is ideal if one of you likes “full‑on active” and the other prefers something gentler.
• Daily briefings in the lounge keep everyone up to speed on the next day’s plans so there are no surprises.

For many travellers, this style of cruising offers the perfect balance between comfort, culture and ease.

When I Travelled: January on the Mekong

I travelled in January 2024, right in the heart of the dry season in southern Vietnam and Cambodia. This is one of the very best times to sail the Mekong:

• Warm to hot days, but generally lower humidity than later in the year
• Minimal rainfall compared with the monsoon months
• Good river levels and relatively stable conditions for cruising and excursions

If you are weather‑sensitive or simply want the most comfortable conditions for temple visits and city touring, November to February is an excellent window, with January sitting neatly in the sweet spot.

Mekong Weather by Month: When Is the Best Time to Go?

The region around Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh and Siem Reap has a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry and wet. Each has pros and cons, depending on your priorities.

November to February: Coolest & Driest (Peak Season)

• Warm days and slightly cooler evenings
• Lower humidity and relatively little rain
• Ideal for full‑day excursions and temple visits
• Popular and can book up early, especially around Christmas and New Year

Best for: first‑time visitors, anyone who dislikes humidity, photographers chasing clear skies and softer light.

March to May: Hot & Building Humidity

• Temperatures climb into the mid‑30s and beyond
• Humidity gradually increases
• Still largely dry, especially in March

Best for: travellers who do not mind the heat and want to travel either side of peak season when it can be a touch quieter.

June to October: Rainy, Green & Lush

• Regular showers and thunderstorms, often in the afternoon or evening
• Higher humidity, very lush rice paddies and countryside
• River levels rise; occasionally itineraries are tweaked for comfort and safety

Best for: repeat visitors, value‑seekers and anyone who loves dramatic skies, fewer crowds and intense green landscapes, and is relaxed about some rain.

My Recommendation

For most people, particularly empty‑nest and professional couples from the UK, November to February works beautifully, with January and early February especially appealing in terms of comfort and reliability.

The Mekong Itinerary: From Saigon to Siem Reap

Scenic’s Mekong cruises generally follow a similar pattern, although exact day‑by‑day details can vary. My journey combined:

• Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): a pre‑cruise stay and city exploration
• Mekong Delta & Vietnamese river life: small towns, villages and floating markets
• Crossing into Cambodia and sailing towards Phnom Penh
• Time in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, to explore both its beauty and its heartbreaking recent history
• Further upstream cruising through rural Cambodia
• Overland transfer to Siem Reap
• A luxurious post‑cruise stay and temple touring from Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor

I can share a full day‑by‑day version if you would like a deeper dive, but this overview gives you a feel for the flow of the trip.

Vietnam War: Learning from a Different Perspective

One of the most powerful aspects of this journey is the chance to learn about the Vietnam War (known in Vietnam as the American War) from a different perspective.

In and around Ho Chi Minh City and along the river you can:

• Visit museums and historical sites that examine the conflict through Vietnamese eyes
• Listen to local guides whose families lived through the war, sharing personal stories that bring history vividly to life
• Travel through former war‑torn regions that are now peaceful, productive and firmly focused on the future

If, like me, you grew up with a largely Western view of the Vietnam War, this can be humbling and thought‑provoking. It deepens your understanding and gives you a richer connection with the places and people you meet.

Khmer Rouge Atrocities: Phnom Penh & Cambodia’s Recent Past

Cambodia’s history under the Khmer Rouge regime is another deeply affecting part of this trip.

In and around Phnom Penh, you have the opportunity (and it is always your choice) to:

• Visit sites that document the atrocities and human cost of the regime
• Learn how the Khmer Rouge came to power and how Cambodia is continuing to heal
• Hear from guides who may share their own family experiences of loss, survival and rebuilding

These visits are not easy, but they are incredibly important in understanding modern Cambodia. Scenic’s team and guides handle them with great sensitivity, allowing time for reflection and questions. Many travellers describe this day as one of the most meaningful on the entire journey.

Pre‑Cruise Stay in Ho Chi Minh City: Caravelle Hotel & City Highlights

Before boarding Scenic Spirit, I spent two nights at the Caravelle Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, which I would highly recommend as a pre‑cruise option.

Why a Pre‑Cruise Stay Makes Sense

• Beat the jet lag: flying from the UK via Singapore, your body clock will thank you for a couple of nights to adjust before joining the ship.
• Get under the skin of Saigon: the city deserves more than a quick glance from a coach window.
• Ease into the culture: this is your chance to enjoy local food, coffee, markets and rooftop bars at your own pace.

What You Can Experience in Ho Chi Minh City

With even a short stay you can:

• Stroll past French‑influenced architecture, grand boulevards and the bustling streets around Dong Khoi.
• Dive into street‑food tours or markets, a fantastic way to get to know Vietnamese flavours and everyday life.
• Visit key historical sites and museums, which then link beautifully with what you see later along the Mekong.
• Watch the city from a rooftop bar, cocktail in hand, as the lights come on and the endless flow of scooters weaves below.

Caravelle’s central location and comfortable, international‑style facilities make it an ideal “soft landing” before you step aboard the ship.

Post‑Cruise Stay in Siem Reap: Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor & Angkor Wat

After the peaceful rhythm of the Mekong, Siem Reap and its surroundings deliver a spectacular finale. I spent two nights at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, which I would happily recommend to anyone who wants to end their journey in style.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor: Old‑World Elegance

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor is a destination in its own right:

• A beautifully restored heritage property with high ceilings, polished floors and a sense of old‑world glamour
• Lush gardens and a stunning swimming pool, which feel like an oasis after long temple days
• Service that is polished yet warm, with staff who make you feel you are returning home rather than just checking in

Staying here feels like a natural continuation of the luxury you experience on Scenic Spirit, rather than a step down from ship to shore.

Angkor Wat & The Temples

From Raffles, you are perfectly placed to explore the Angkor Archaeological Park:

• Angkor Wat at sunrise or sunset is as magical as everyone says, especially with a knowledgeable guide to explain the symbolism and stories behind the carvings.
• Nearby temples such as Bayon, with its serene stone faces, and more atmospheric, tree‑root‑wrapped sites provide variety and endless photographic inspiration.
• With two nights you can see the major highlights without feeling rushed; add a third if you want to explore more remote temples.

Siem Reap by Night: Markets & Pub Street

Evenings in Siem Reap offer a fun contrast to the quiet of the temples and hotel gardens:

• Wander through night markets, picking up local crafts and tasting street snacks.
• Head to the famous Pub Street, packed with bars, restaurants and live music. It is lively, bright and noisy, but a great place to celebrate the end of your journey if you enjoy a more upbeat scene.
• Or simply enjoy a drink in the elegant Raffles bar, reflecting on everything you have seen and learned.

Why Mekong River Cruises Are Perfect for Solo Travellers

I am increasingly asked whether river cruising, and the Mekong in particular, suits solo travellers. The answer is a resounding yes, and I see this itinerary as an especially strong option.

1. Sociable but Never Overwhelming

With only around 68 guests, Scenic Spirit is the ideal size for solo travel:

• It is very easy to get to know fellow guests over meals, in the lounge and on excursions.
• There is a natural camaraderie that comes from sharing such a distinctive journey.
• You can be as social or as private as you wish; there is no pressure either way.

Many solo travellers are not “single” in the dating sense: you may have a partner at home, friends who could not travel, or simply love exploring independently. That keeps the atmosphere relaxed and friendly rather than feeling like a singles holiday.

2. Exclusively Solo River Cruise Options

Across river cruising there is a growing trend towards exclusively solo departures for various destinations, including Asia. On these sailings you often find:

• No single supplement or significantly reduced supplements, which is a huge saving.
• A ship full of guests in the same situation: travelling solo, but not necessarily looking for romance.
• Slightly more curated social experiences, making it even easier for solos to connect.

If you are travelling on your own and worried about cost or feeling out of place, these departures can be a game‑changer.

3. Guided Structure with Free Time

For solo travellers, the structure of a Mekong river cruise is reassuring:

• Daily guided excursions take care of logistics, safety and language barriers.
• You are rarely alone unless you choose to be; there is always a group and a guide.
• There is still space in the schedule for independent exploration and quiet time on deck, in the spa or in your suite.

It is the best of both worlds: freedom within a very safe and well‑organised framework.

4. Safety, Security & Simplicity

On a river cruise:

• You unpack once and your floating hotel travels with you.
• The crew quickly get to know everyone, adding a sense of security.
• Transfers, excursions and most meals are taken care of, which removes a lot of the planning and “what ifs” that can worry solo travellers.

If you are considering long‑haul solo travel for the first time, a Mekong river cruise is an excellent, confidence‑building choice.

As Seen on Channel 5

As an extra endorsement, this very ship and itinerary have recently featured on Channel 5 in the UK, with Angela Rippon showcasing the Scenic Mekong experience and its destinations.

The programme is still available on‑demand and is a brilliant way to:

• See what Scenic Spirit looks like inside and out
• Get a feel for the cabins, public areas and life along the Mekong
• Glimpse Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, including Angkor Wat

If you like to “see” a holiday before you book it, it is well worth a watch.

FAQs: Mekong River Cruise on Scenic Spirit with Caravelle & Raffles

1. How long is the full trip including hotel stays?
Most Mekong river journeys with Scenic combine a 7‑night river cruise with several nights on land. With 2 nights in Ho Chi Minh City, the cruise itself, and 2 nights in Siem Reap at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, you are looking at around 11–14 days in destination, plus international travel time.

2. When is the best time of year to go?
For comfortable temperatures and lower humidity, November to February works best, with January particularly appealing. If you prioritise lush scenery and are relaxed about some rain, June to October can be a rewarding (and often better‑value) alternative.

3. Is this suitable for solo travellers?
Yes, very much so. The ship is small and sociable, excursions are guided, dining is inclusive and there is always someone to chat to if you wish. Many river cruise lines, including those on the Mekong, also offer “exclusively solo” sailings with reduced or no single supplements.

4. What is typically included in the price?
A Scenic Mekong package usually includes your suite on Scenic Spirit, all meals on board, most drinks, daily excursions, Wi‑Fi and gratuities. Stays at hotels such as Caravelle Ho Chi Minh City and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, plus transfers and flights, can be wrapped into your overall holiday. Spa treatments, some very premium drinks and optional extras are usually additional.

5. Do I need a high level of fitness?
You do not need to be an athlete, but a reasonable level of mobility is helpful. Some excursions involve steps, uneven surfaces and getting in and out of local boats. There is usually a choice of pace, so the trip can be tailored to your comfort level.

6. How hot does it get?
It is a tropical region, so it is always warm to hot. In the dry season, daytime highs are typically around 28–32°C, with lower humidity than in the wet season. Light, breathable clothing, a good hat, sunscreen and staying hydrated are essential.

7. Can I add other destinations before or after the cruise?
Absolutely. Popular combinations include time in Hanoi and Halong Bay, city breaks in Bangkok or Singapore, or a beach stay in Vietnam or Thailand. The Mekong cruise acts as a very strong “spine” for a longer Southeast Asia adventure.

8. Is this a good option if I am nervous about long‑haul travel?
Yes. Flying with a quality airline such as Singapore Airlines, then having a fully hosted cruise and hotel package, takes away much of the stress. You are well looked after from the moment you land, with clear guidance and support throughout.

9. How immersive is the cultural experience?
Very. You will visit local markets, villages, temples and workshops, as well as key historical sites linked to the Vietnam War and Khmer Rouge era. Guides are local experts who add personal insight to the history and everyday life you see along the way.

10. How far in advance should I book?
For the best choice of suites and hotels such as Caravelle and Raffles, it is sensible to start planning 9–12 months in advance, especially if you want to travel in peak dry‑season dates or secure good solo pricing.

If this kind of journey speaks to you, I would love to help you experience it for yourself.

Whether you are dreaming of a special birthday, a once‑in‑a‑lifetime adventure, or a first long‑haul trip to Asia, I can:

• Tailor the cruise length, hotels and flights around your dates
• Advise on the best time of year to travel for you
• Talk you through the different suite types, solo options and extensions
• Take care of all the logistics so you simply relax and enjoy it

If you would like to chat about a Mekong river cruise on Scenic Spirit with stays at Caravelle Ho Chi Minh City and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, just get in touch with me today and we can start planning your own story on the Mekong.