Well it's been a couple of weeks since the end of our trip (Halong Bay Red River) our third with the Pandaw fleet. It is a great feeling of familiarity when boarding the boats and to see the smiling crew. This being our first trip to northern & central Vietnam (our last time in South Vietnam 2009), the industrial side of this trip quite different but still with the out of the way & local experiences Pandaw provides. I found the push bikes on board a great idea and were of a good standard for the riding we did. Our Captain and crew did a fantastic job in some trying conditions, Halong Bay was stunning to see (pity about the water quality around the islands, but that’s out of Pandaw’s control).

I don't usually mention one particular staff member as all Pandaw’s people work hard to please their guests but there was one who was going above and beyond (always with a smile) our assistant Purser "Pah", (always good but "very good" in a crisis). As a retired business owner, he would be a "key" staff member. There was some disharmony in the kitchen, which reflected in some of the food served. I'd like to thank the staff for looking after my wife who was unable to do some shore excursions, this did not affect her enjoying this trip at all.

Yours Sincerely & Happy Pandaw Travellers
Trevor & Gail Harvey

In February my wife and I boarded the Angkor Pandaw in Ho Chi Minh city. From that moment we were to be treated to First class meals First Class service and First Class accommodation for the next 7 nights. Included in this trip up the Mekong were shore visits to villages, Temples and Schools the itinerary was endless and professionally organised. The guides in Vietnam and in Cambodia were very good and informative and the crew were always on hand to give advice or to help, nothing was to much trouble and always with a smiling face. There is nothing better than watching the people carry on with their everyday lives as you cruise slowly up the river.On board entertainment was also provided in the way of films or shows again top quality. The boat itself boasted rich dark wood everywhere and very well maintained. I could have stayed forever and when the dreaded day came to disembark the whole crew lined on the river bank to bid us goodbye. it was a floating Claridges. A cruise on the Mekong is a must whether take a long cruise like this or a short one for just a couple of days, you must do it.

Just back from another wonderful Pandaw cruise this time from Bagan to Mandalay.  The same wonderful atmosphere as previously with even better food and delightful staff.  I have already been to Cambodia/Vietnam and India and have just booked to go to Laos next year.   Look forward to more cruises!  Makes a great change from the dreary Edinburgh weather in February.  Best wishes Nicola Lowe.

Response from Pandaw

Thanks for letting me know all went well and am glad that Pagan to Mandalay was as good as the Mekong. Let's hope the Laos trip lives up to expectations. Being a new expedition it may be a bit rough at the edges on the service side but I promise it will not be without lots of excitement being a much smaller ship going through some wild areas.