Retirees Neil and Kate Mann are self-described “fiercely independent travelers.” They love every aspect of planning a trip, but decided to enlist some help from kimkim for their most ambitious endeavor yet: a month-long journey through Vietnam and Cambodia. Neil shares his favorite moments, the importance of cultural experiences, and advice for travelers interested in recreating their itinerary.
Hi Neil! It’s wonderful to connect with you. Could you share a bit about yourself and your wife, Kate? I understand you both are seasoned travelers. What are some of your most cherished destinations that hold a special place in your hearts?
Well, my wife, Kate, and I are enjoying our retirement years, both in our late 60s. We’re fortunate to be in good health and have maintained a strong sense of curiosity about the world. Travel has consistently been a priority for us throughout our lives together. We’ve been incredibly lucky to have explored a vast array of places, including 49 of the United States – we’re still aiming to get to Alaska! Beyond the US, we’ve journeyed through much of Central America, experienced the beauty of Chile, relaxed on many Caribbean islands, wandered through Western Europe, and ventured to the distant lands of Australia and New Zealand. When our children were younger, we made sure to include them in our adventures, and we’ve also traveled with other couples over the years. Kate and I explored Australia and Southeast Asia independently, which gave us a unique perspective. If I had to pick favorites, I’d say Asia and Pacific destinations stand out. They are so far from our home and typically offer a less crowded, more authentic travel experience.
You’ve described yourself as a “fiercely independent traveler.” What prompted you to seek local assistance for your recent trip to Vietnam and Cambodia?
That’s a good observation! I do take pride in meticulously researching and planning our trips. Friends often joke that I missed my calling and should have pursued a career as a travel agent. We definitely prefer independent exploration and avoid large group tours that rush you from one place to the next. However, Vietnam, in particular, seemed a bit more challenging to research thoroughly and navigate on our own. That’s why I decided to reach out for some local expert guidance. I decided to seek assistance from local experts.
I know that history and culture are central to your travel experiences. What specifically drew you to Vietnam and Cambodia and placed them at the top of your travel list?
The stories we heard from friends and acquaintances who had previously visited Vietnam and Cambodia were overwhelmingly positive. Everyone we spoke to gushed about their experiences. Considering our age, I’m not sure how many more 22-hour transit trips I can convince my wife to endure! So, we prioritized Vietnam and Cambodia. I also felt a deep personal interest in learning more about the history of both countries, especially in the post-World War II era and considering America’s involvement in the region.
Reflecting on your time in Vietnam, what particular aspect or experience stands out as a favorite?
We were deeply moved by the country and the warmth of its people. I believe it’s crucial to approach Vietnam with an open mind, setting aside any preconceived notions and truly seeing the country for what it is. Hanoi, with its bustling streets and rich history, trekking in Sapa, surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and relaxing on the beaches of Phu Quoc were definitely highlights for us.
Turning our attention to Cambodia, do you have any particularly memorable moments or experiences that you’d like to share?
Cambodia possesses a unique sense of tranquility, deeply rooted in its Buddhist traditions. The ancient temples at Angkor Wat and Angkor Tom are simply breathtaking. I also remember a touching experience where local people capture small birds in the countryside and bring them to the temples. For a small donation, they offer you a bird to hold in your hand and release with a prayer. Kate and I released our birds with a prayer for a dear friend who had recently been diagnosed with cancer. It was a very emotional moment.
You had the opportunity to participate in some wonderful local experiences, such as visiting the Ma Tra village and taking a cooking class in Hoi An. Can you share how these cultural experiences enriched your overall trip?
Cultural experiences are what truly make a trip memorable for us. Bicycling through the rice fields and learning about gardening techniques in Ma Tra Village was incredibly special. The genuine hospitality of the local villagers made us feel so welcome. I’m not sure if we would have discovered these enriching side cultural excursions – things like dining with local families or participating in paper flower making – without expert assistance.
Were there any particular aspects of the trip or the destinations in general that took you by surprise?
I think we were most surprised by the sheer size and vibrant energy of Saigon. Imagine, 18 million people and 12 million motor scooters! Just navigating those streets was a significant challenge. Thank goodness for the convenience of Uber! Beyond that, we were deeply touched by the warmth and hospitality of both the Vietnamese and Cambodian people. Given my generation, I had some initial concerns about how Americans might be viewed and treated, considering our involvement in the war. However, the war seems like ancient history to the young and vibrant population. We encountered no animosity or shaming, and both countries felt very safe and welcoming for tourists.
Could you describe the experience of crossing the border between Vietnam and Cambodia?
Crossing the border was surprisingly easy and even enjoyable. They handled the visa process right there at the border. We chose to travel by boat up the Mekong River to Phnom Penh, which I would highly recommend over flying. It offered a much more scenic and immersive experience.
What advice would you offer to other travelers who are interested in embarking on a similar itinerary through Vietnam and Cambodia?
I would wholeheartedly recommend this itinerary. However, I might suggest taking a day off here and there – for example, three nights in Saigon and two in Hue would likely be sufficient. I would also recommend adding an extra day or two in Hoi An to fully explore the town and enjoy the beautiful beaches. Now that we’re retired, we have the luxury of spending more time in each location. I wouldn’t recommend trying to rush through this itinerary in just two weeks. If you have limited time, I would advise focusing on fewer places. Don’t try to cram everything in, or you’ll end up being just another tourist who barely scratches the surface of the country’s soul. Slow down, be present, and allow yourself to truly connect with the places and people you encounter.
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