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| Sundeck on Toum Tiou 2 |
As the Head Housekeeper aboard the RV Toum Tiou 2 New Discovery Tour, offered by CF Mekong River Cruises by CroisiEurope, I’m fortunate to oversee a team responsible for ensuring that our passengers enjoy the utmost comfort and cleanliness during their 9-day Discovery Cruise along the Mekong River.
Our journey, stretching from Vietnam to Cambodia, offers a unique combination of exploration, cultural immersion, and relaxation—and it’s my job, along with my team, to create an environment that feels like home for our guests while they experience the wonders of the Mekong.
The Role of Head of Cabin Housekeeping
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| My Cabin on Toum Tiou 2 |
My job involves much more than simply maintaining cleanliness; it’s about creating an atmosphere of hospitality and comfort that complements the breathtaking scenery and enriching experiences we offer. On a day-to-day basis, my team and I are responsible for ensuring that all cabins are spotless, comfortable, and well-stocked with everything our passengers need. This includes changing linens, replenishing supplies, and ensuring that every detail, from the towels to the toiletries, is in perfect condition.
Before the cruise begins, I inspect each cabin personally, making sure everything is in place and ready for our guests. I also make sure our housekeeping supplies are well-stocked—everything from cleaning products to fresh linens—and that all safety and hygiene standards are strictly followed. As we sail along the Mekong, my role expands to overseeing the day-to-day cleaning schedule for the ship, which involves managing a small but dedicated team of housekeeping staff who work hard to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness in all public areas and guest cabins.
The Rhythm of Life Aboard
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| My Ensuite on Toum Tiou 2 |
Each morning, as the boat sets sail and the passengers settle in for their day’s adventures, we begin our work. We start by making beds, changing linens, and tidying up the cabins after the passengers have gone to breakfast or embarked on excursions. It's a quiet time for us, when the boat is still and the sun is just rising, and it’s often the most peaceful part of the day. Once cabins are refreshed, we ensure that each guest has the amenities they need for the day, from fresh bottled water to replenished toiletries.
In addition to cabin care, we also maintain the public areas—cleaning the lounge, dining room, and decks. As you can imagine, the river environment can be challenging—saltwater, humidity, and frequent outdoor activities mean that we must keep a close eye on the upkeep of every area on the boat. I make sure that everything, from the dining area to the bar, is spotless and ready to welcome our passengers when they return from their adventures.
A Team Effort
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| Toum Tiou crew and other crew on the Toum Tiou 2 |
Housekeeping aboard a riverboat like the RV Toum Tiou 2 is very much a team effort. I’m proud to work with a team of housekeeping staff who are not only skilled but deeply committed to making our passengers’ experience as enjoyable as possible. Whether it's providing extra towels, ensuring the cabins are prepared for the night, or offering friendly advice about where to shop for local souvenirs, my team goes above and beyond to ensure our guests feel taken care of. One of the most important parts of our job is maintaining a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Our passengers come from all corners of the globe, and it’s our job to make them feel at home—whether they’re just waking up after a restful night on the river or preparing for another day of exploration. Often, passengers take the time to chat with us, ask about local traditions, or share their experiences from the day. It's these little moments that make the job so rewarding and allow us to connect with guests in a meaningful way.
A Unique Challenge: Maintaining Comfort on the River
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| My Cabin on Toum Tiou 2 |
What makes housekeeping on a riverboat like the RV Toum Tiou 2 different from working in a hotel or resort is the constant movement. The boat is always on the move, with tides, currents, and even the weather influencing our daily operations. Sometimes, we need to adjust our cleaning schedule to account for the weather. At the same time, we’re working with a smaller, more intimate space than you would find in a hotel, so attention to detail is crucial. A single misplaced item can stand out, so we focus on creating a space that is not only clean but also organized and welcoming.
Another challenge is the environmental conditions. The Mekong River flows through a variety of climates, from the humid heat of Vietnam to the cooler air of Cambodia’s more open waters. We have to ensure that our cabins are comfortable and that passengers feel at ease, no matter the weather outside. I personally make sure the passengers are happy with their air-conditioner temperature settings in the cabins to make sure they’re just right, and we adjust to ensure proper ventilation and cleanliness, especially in the warmer months when humidity levels are higher.
A Memorable Journey
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| My Cabin Door on Toum Tiou 2 |
As we travel from Vietnam to Cambodia, passengers have the chance to witness some of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful and historic sites. Whether it’s the floating villages of the Mekong Delta, the bustling markets, or the serene riverside landscapes, each day brings new discoveries. And for me, it’s incredibly rewarding to be part of this experience. While my team and I work behind the scenes, it’s clear to us that the comfort and satisfaction of our passengers are essential parts of the journey. After all, we are part of something much larger: a shared adventure that spans cultures, landscapes, and history.
At the end of each day, after the last guest has returned from their evening excursions, we make sure that their cabin is ready for the night. Fresh linens, cozy towels, and a peaceful, quiet space to relax in as the boat gently rocks on the river. Our work may be invisible to most, but it’s vital to ensuring that our passengers have an unforgettable experience on the Mekong.
As I reflect on the journey, I feel immense pride in the work we do. Housekeeping may not always be the most glamorous aspect of the cruise, but it’s the heart of the experience—ensuring that every guest feels
welcome, comfortable, and at ease as they explore this incredible part of the world.
*By the Ms Srey Pov, Head Housekeeper, RV Toum Tiou 2
Toum Tiou 2
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| Toum Tiou 2 |
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CFMekongRiverCruises/
Email: office@cfmekong.com
Address: Office 20, Hotel Cambodiana, 313 Preah Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh, 12207, Cambodia
Phone Number: + 855 (0) 23 216 070, + 855 (0) 12 240 859
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