We chose this cruise because we enjoy small ship cruising where you get to meet and get to know the people on board. Also, the crew gets to know you. We spent a few days in Vietnam before the cruise and a few days in Siem reap Cambodia at the end of the cruise included with Avalon.
One of the great things about the small river boat cruise is all the excursions are included and very unique. Often times the ship would just pull up to the bank of the river and setup a small walkway to venture out on. We visited many small villages, schools and other sites (silver making village, weaving silk, brick making operation, the killing fields, war tunnels, markets, monisteraries, etc.). We rode tuk-Tuks, visited Angkor watt, rode a ox cart, etc. everyone in every town and village were super nice. The cruise director Ha, was exceptional as were the local guides.
The food on board was amazing, you were able to try all the local favorites. All the local beer and spirits were included in the trip. One of the greatest trips we've ever been on. This is not what you think of when you think of cruises, this is more like a personal riverboat tour.
Avalon River cruise cabins are fantastic, the open balcony feel is the best. The bathroom is great, the size of a normal bathroom not like typical cruises.