Below is a list of 10 of some of MTR’s most loved attractions in five SE Asian cities. Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi, Saigon (HCMC), Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
Malaysia
1.
The Petronas Twin Towers is worth a look for their sheer grandeur. And the observation deck bridging the 14th floors is highly recommended.
MTR tip: Get in early for tickets at the ground floor reception area or book and pay on line $63.00pp includes access to the Observation Deck
Vietnam
2.
Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum. Especially if you have an interest in modern Vietnamese history. This attraction is a poignant memorial to a highly regarded leader of the Vietnamese people. Entry is free.
MTR tip: Respect the rules. There are stern soldiers making sure everyone adheres to them.
3.
Walk or catch a cyclops (tricycle) ride around the Old Quarter . Dotted with hundreds of food places, markets, visions and views, the Old Quarter holds thousands of fabulous photo opportunities.
MTR tips:
Highly recommended.
Book Cyclops rides, (think of enjoying a different perspective on this wonderous city), from your hotel reception. They know the ones who will look after you. Tipping the driver is highly appreciated.
A face mask is recommended.
(Saigon) Ho Chi Minh City
4.
The War Remnants Museum – One of the most visited museums in Vietnam for good reason. It is a hugely humbling experience and a salutary reminder of the fragility of peace. Every person would be hard pushed to not be moved by the experience. I cant recommend this attraction highly enough. Admission Fees: VND $40 pp. Children under 6 are free.
MTR Tip: Take tissues and money for souvenirs’.
5.
Saigon Skydeck – Another huge modern high-rise commercial building. The Bitexco Financial Towers provide a 360degree viewing deck way up on the 49th floor. A great way to see HCMC spread out below you. Tickets are available at the front desk reception on the ground floor. You’ll be escorted up the lift to the 49th floor. Admission:$18.00pp
Cambodia
6.
Silk Island – A gorgeous day, (or half day) out. Catch a Tuk Tuk which will transport you to this wonderful little island where, like a hive of beautiful working bees, locals produce silk and weave by hand, all sorts of deliciously richly-coloured silk goodies. The island also provides a peaceful and slow paced change from the city. And an interesting insight into local rural life. Cost – the price of the Tuk Tuk depending on time. We paid our Tuk Tuk driver a very cheap US$20 for the day – and US$2 for the cost of the 5 minute ferry ride across the Mekong. (one way).
MTR Tip: Take some American dollars for purchases and/or donations.
7.
Night Food Markets – Stroll along the river and enjoy an evening snack or meal. Great food, cheap prices and a fun atmosphere.
MTR Tip: Google search for details.
8.
The French Quarter – Cross one of the little river bridges into this delightful part of Siem Reap. Promenade along the quaint streets and enjoy the charm of the Olde- Worlde buildings and shops. There are even old beautifully restored vintage cars to take you for a ride around town. Or for some respite from sun and heat plenty of covered verandaed El fresco dining or drinking spots. Make your way to Street 8 for a lively nightlife with plenty of bars, restaurants and nightclubs to choose from.
9.
Angkor Wat Temples – This amazing attraction is of course, just about on everyone’s bucket list. Just go. Allow up to 2 days. But if your short on time 1 full day is recommended.
MTR Tip: Pay an English speaking local guide. It is definitely money well spent. And to be educated about the depths of this amazing complexes history adds layers of context and richness to the experience. We paid the equivalent of about US$100 plus a Tuk Tuk ride. It was worth very cent.
10.
Cambodia is a large land mass to travel. If you want to see the country outside of the main centres, a road trip is a great way to travel.
We did two. From Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Then Siem Reap to the Thai border. By employing a reputable tour guide/driver, we not only saw so much more than just landscape, (click the above link to find out more), we learnt about the local culture from locals, had lovely food provided and short stops to enjoy a roadside market, peer at edible bugs or ancient structures and be treated with absolute regard and respect. Non, our first driver delivered us to Siem Reap introduced us to his brother, Tuk Tuk driver Nathan, who introduced us to an English speaking guide for Angkor Wat. He in turn introduced us to a fantastically helpful man who drove us from Siem Reap to the Thai border.
Not only did he deliver us safely but helped us sort out our paper work and guided us through the immigration road border process. Fees: Approx. US$200 for each road trip.
MTR Tip: If you look after them, pay well and tip, a driver will provide you with an experience you could never have travelling on a plane, tour bus or train.
If you would like further information on any of these attractions or cities or countries, please feel free to contact me at janeco@mytravelroom.co.nz .
