Cambodia – Vietnam – Thailand

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, offers a mixture of glittering palaces and the heritage of the past. The magnificent Royal Palace ensemble with its golden roofs is a prime example of traditional Cambodian architecture. There is also a charming river promenade, numerous urban bars and traditional, authentic markets. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum offers a glimpse into the dark past and provides information about the country’s history.

Ruins of Angkor Wat

The imposing ruins of Angkor Wat are the largest religious site in the world and are located around 240 kilometres from the capital in Siem Reap. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only a symbol of inspiration, but also an expression of Khmer national pride. After years of terror, the ruins play a central role in rebuilding their lives and are still a famous pilgrimage site for Buddhists today. The nearby Ta Prohm temple, famous for the ancient trees that grow through its ruins, adds to the mystical atmosphere.

Koh Rong Sanloem: paradisiacal tranquillity

The island of Koh Rong Sanloem, 25 kilometres off the coast of Cambodia, boasts white sandy beaches, crystal-clear water and a relaxed atmosphere. The tropical oasis offers unspoilt nature, hidden bays and a diverse underwater world. There is no hustle and bustle or traffic here – ideal for anyone who wants to switch off and go diving, snorkelling or simply enjoy the sunset over the turquoise waters.

Nature and culture in the highlands

Mondulkiri, located in eastern Cambodia, fascinates with its green hills, waterfalls and dense jungle landscape. The region is home to the indigenous Bunong community, whose culture and traditions are still alive here. Hikes lead through the jungle to rice fields, sugar palms and impressive waterfalls such as the Bou Sra and allow encounters with elephants in sustainable conservation projects. Far from the typical tourist trails, Mondulkiri offers a quiet, authentic side of Cambodia.

First Shangri-La in the country

One of the most beautiful addresses is the Shangri-La Hotel in Phnom Penh, which opens its doors at the end of the year. Located in the heart of the city, it combines modern luxury with Cambodian hospitality. Stylish rooms, first-class restaurants and an impressive view of the Mekong River create a harmonious oasis in the midst of the urban hustle and bustle. Highlights include the legendary «Health Club» on the 51st floor with spa, pool and gym in impressive premises as well as the direct proximity to cultural highlights such as the Royal Palace. For nights in Siem Reap, we recommend the luxurious Anantara Angkor Resort.

Private hotels on the island

For nights away from the cities, we recommend the Six Senses Krabey Island and the Song Saa Private Island Resort. At Six Senses Krabey Island Resort, guests relax on a private tropical island with just 40 detached pool villas nestled in the lush canopy of trees. Indulge in traditional Khmer massages and Cambodian healing treatments at the in-house spa. No less beautiful is the intimate Song Saa Private Island Resort with its unspoilt private beach, spacious wooden villas, heavenly spa oases and a protected coral reef on the doorstep.

Hanoi – tradition and modernity combined

Vietnam’s capital Hanoi welcomes travellers with a lively mix of past and present. In the old town, narrow alleyways lead to historical sights such as the Bach Ma Temple, one of the oldest temples in the city, which is still an important spiritual centre today. The Dong Xuan market is a colourful hustle and bustle of local products, spices and traditional craftsmanship. At Hoan Kiem Lake, modern cafés meet centuries-old legends, while the Temple of Literature offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s Confucian past.

The «Emerald Island» with Duong Dong 

In Duong Dong, the largest city on the island of Phú Quốc in the south of the country, the hustle and bustle meets paradisiacal beaches in a relaxed island atmosphere. Long Beach, with its soft sand and clear waves, is ideal for relaxation and sunsets. In the town centre, the lively night market and traditional fish sauce factories offer an insight into the local culture. Small restaurants serve fresh fish and seafood directly from the surrounding waters.

Natural paradise Phu Quoc National Park

Phu Quoc National Park covers almost half of the island and protects a variety of flora and fauna. Dense tropical forests, winding hiking trails and tranquil rivers reveal a quiet, unspoilt side of Phu Quoc, far from the beaches and resorts. Rare animal species such as the langur and colourful bird species live here and can be spotted in the treetops. Viewpoints reward hikers with impressive panoramas over the green island and the turquoise sea.

River cruise in the Mekong

A river cruise through the Mekong River is not to be missed. The excursion takes you to the famous floating markets, where traders offer fresh fruit, vegetables and goods on their boats. The tranquil beauty of the delta can be savoured as you pass traditional pagodas and small villages. Particularly impressive is a visit to the «Nine Dragons»- the islands of the outer Mekong Delta, which meander through the landscape like a network of waterways and offer a unique, rural atmosphere.

Limestone islands and mysterious caves

Another worthwhile boat tour is the one with a traditional junk through the spectacular rocky islands of Ha Long Bay. The bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and epitomises the wild beauty and tranquillity of the country. Majestic karst formations, named after their shapes, rise out of the emerald green water everywhere. Once in the boat and underway, the Dau Go Cave also beckons to be discovered. Its impressive stalactites and stalagmites make the «Cave of Wonders» one of the most beautiful attractions in the region.

Nights in Vietnam

In Ho Chi Minh City, the Hôtel des Arts Saigon MGallery combines the charm of French Indochina with timeless chic and is an art museum and 5-star boutique hotel in one. For luxurious nights on the beach, we recommend the Four Season Resort The Nam Hai in Hoi An. In Hanoi, the Capella, which was designed as a tribute to the nearby opera house whose stars often stayed here in the past, is a particularly beautiful place to spend the night. Today, the 47 rooms and suites, the Backstage Restaurant and the Diva’s Lounge Bar are decorated with numerous ornate opera ornaments reminiscent of the glorious times.

First Lux Resort in Vietnam

In 2025, The Lux Collective’s first property will open on the island of Phu Quoc, directly adjacent to a 30,000 square metre biosphere reserve. Inspired by the Maldives and Vietnamese traditions, the Luxnam Phu Quoc Resort comprises 126 villas with panoramic sea views, elegant comfort and personalised service. The offer is complemented by several innovative restaurants, a spa, a fitness centre and a children’s playground.

Hanoi – tradition and modernity combined

Vietnam’s capital Hanoi welcomes travellers with a lively mix of past and present. In the old town, narrow alleyways lead to historical sights such as the Bach Ma Temple, one of the oldest temples in the city, which is still an important spiritual centre today. The Dong Xuan market is a colourful hustle and bustle of local products, spices and traditional craftsmanship. At Hoan Kiem Lake, modern cafés meet centuries-old legends, while the Temple of Literature offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s Confucian past.

The capital Bangkok

The capital Bangkok is the ideal starting point for travelling through Thailand. As there is plenty to discover between food stalls, rooftop bars and tuk tuks, it is worth planning a few days. The city combines ultra-modern architecture with historic temples and luxurious hotels. There is also a wealth of sights such as the golden Buddha in Wat Pho, the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun. It is also worth exploring individual museums such as the rather unknown Bangkokian Museum.

(Water) adventures on Phuket

Known for its white sandy beaches and lively nightlife, Phuket is particularly popular with a younger crowd. However, Thailand’s largest island has much more to offer. Water sports enthusiasts in particular get their money’s worth. Whether surfing, paragliding, water skiing or kitesurfing – everything is possible here. Divers can go on a diving safari to the Similan Islands, where paradisiacal diving conditions and visibility of 25 metres prevail. Those who prefer solid ground under their feet for their adventures can explore the jungle inland, which is home to elephants and wonderful birdlife.

Active on Koh Samui

Koh Samui is also famous for water sports – be it snorkelling, diving, kayaking or simply swimming at the impressive Na Muang waterfalls. In between, the island in the Gulf of Thailand delights with palm-fringed beaches and turquoise blue water. If you like cafés and entertainment on the beach, visit the famous Chaweng Beach. The secluded beaches of Bang Por and Thongson promise quieter hours. Golfers can visit the excellent golf course at the Santiburi Samui Country Club.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai awaits in the mountainous north of Thailand. While the old town attracts visitors with historic temples such as Wat Phra Singh from the 14th century and Wat Chedi Luang, which is decorated with carved snakes, the surrounding mountains, caves and waterfalls invite you to explore. Heart-warming moments for young and old are guaranteed in the Elephant Nature Park, which is a sanctuary for rescued animals and offers exciting insights into their lives. An excursion to the north takes you to the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet at the mighty Mekong River.

Ayutthaya and Sukhothai

Just 80 kilometres north of Bangkok, the ancient royal city of Ayutthaya with its magnificent temple and palace ruins is a reminder of a glorious era in Thai history. For over 400 years, 33 kings from five dynasties ruled here, and today the remains bear witness to their former greatness and importance. History buffs can travel further north from here to the legendary UNESCO World Heritage City of Sukhothai. Also known as the «Cradle of Thailand», it was founded in the early 13th century and was the first capital of the Siamese kingdom. Both sites can also be easily explored by bike.

Nights in Thailand

In the heart of Bangkok, right on the river, the 5-star Mandarin Oriental Hotel with its luxurious rooms and award-winning spa invites you to stay. As a Finass customer, you can enjoy special privileges here. Guests can choose from 12 restaurants and bars, ranging from traditional Thai cuisine to a Michelin-starred French restaurant. For nights in Phuket, we recommend the relaxed Amanpuri or the exclusive Rosewood. In Chiang Mai, the eco-resort Wild Cottages Elephant Sanctuary in the middle of the elephant sanctuary promises an unforgettable stay.