Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
Xin chao! Welcome to Hanoi!
Upon arrival, your guide or driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel.
Interesting fact: The building shown in the above picture is known as "Shark Jaws," built in 1991 near Hoan Kiem Lake. Despite its controversial design at first, it has become an iconic fixture in the Old Quarter. It's been featured in many international documentaries and is a favorite spot for tourists to take coffee breaks and photos.
Day 2: Hanoi Half Day City Tour, Cyclo & Water Puppet Show
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Begin the morning with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum and hear about the man who led Vietnam’s campaign for independence from French colonial rule. After dedicating his life to the liberation of his country from foreign rule, Ho Chi Minh died in 1969 and his body was preserved for posterity. Every October the mausoleum is closed for a month and Uncle Ho is given a bit of a spruce up! Then wander the grounds to see the one pillar pagoda and the presidential palace. Next,visit the 11th century relic, the Temple of Literature, which was built in homage to the Chinese scholar Confucius.
In the afternoon start with the Museum of Ethnology that is widely acknowledged as the best in the country, with an extensive display dedicated to Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minority people. Take a breezy cyclo ride through the Old Quarter’s 36 streets, named for the products that were sold from their shops. Today, vendors on Tin and Bamboo Streets still sell the same wares. Next, sip astrong Vietnamese coffee in a café overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake - an important symbol in Vietnamese folklore. End your day with a delightful water puppet show, a traditional art that is still being performed today.
Day 3: Hanoi - Ha Long Bay - Lan Ha Bay
Depart from Hanoi and travel by road to the Tuan Chau Island pier in Halong Bay. Set off on your luxury cruise, where you’ll be pampered in style and comfort whilst meandering through the towering limestone cliffs and emerald green waters of Ha long Bay. Stop in Tra Bau, a secret hideaway in Lan Ha Bay that has beaches, caves and coves.
You can try kayaking or simply swim in the clear waters of the bay. Back to your boat, enjoy life aboard the vessel or in your suite, and with cocktail in hand watch the sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin. In late afternoon part in a professional cooking demonstration before indulging in a luxurious dinner in the dining hall. Spend the rest of the evening as you’d like: watch a movie in the dining area, relax on the deck with a cocktail, or go squid fishing under the cover of night.
Fact: Ha Long Bay experiences cool weather and clear skies from September to November. Mist rolls in from December to March, lending the bay an air of mystery. April and May bring sunny days and a refreshing breeze, while the monsoon season, occurring from June to August, can make visits unpredictable.
Day 4: Ha Long Bay - Hanoi - fly to Hue
Pic above: President Suite, Stellar of the sea
Rise with the sun and practice Vivonam on the sundeck while taking in majestic views of the surrounding bay and the cool sea breeze. Wrap up your experience with a bamboo boat trip to visit Dark and Bright Cave before cruising back to Tuan Chau Marina. Your guide and driver will take you to Hanoi airport for your flight to Hue.
Upon arrival you will be taken to your hotel in Hue.
Day 5: Hue Full Day City Tour
Start your tour with the ancient walled Citadel, which was closely modelled along the lines of the Forbidden City in Beijing. Then visit Khai Dinh tomb, admire the unusual combination of architecture that blends a traditional Chinese past with a modern Western future.You then have a tour of Thien Mu pagoda, one of iconic sights in Hue and An Hien garden house. An Hien garden house contains many large and small architectures built according to the traditional architecture style of Vietnam in general and Hue in particular. The garden house is strongly influenced by fengshui. The main architecture of An Hien garden house is a 3-room 2-gable house with wooden structure and beautifully sculpted patterns. Over a century of existence, An Hien remains almost intact both in landscape and architecture.
For lunch, explore the local street food scene is a must-do activity for travellers in Hue City. Sample the diverse flavours and aromas that make Hue's cuisine so special. From iconic dishes like Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and banh bot loc, Banh Nam and Banh Beo (Hue royal cakes) to the fragrant com hen (clam rice) and Nem Lui (lemongrass skewers), there are endless culinary delights to savour. As you embark on your culinary journey, you'll also have the opportunity to learn about the cultural significance behind each dish.Many of the traditional recipes have been passed down through generations, offering a glimpse into the city's rich culinary heritage. Venture into the bustling streets, where local food vendors and stalls line the sidewalks, offering a wide array of flavours and textures.
In the afternoon visit Khai dinh tomb. Khai Dinh was the Nguyen Dynasty’s most eccentric and unusual king, who reportedly embraced French colonialism. Much like his father, Khai Dinh favored imported luxuries, spent huge sums of money on his tomb, and was the subject of ridicule by nationalist leaders.
Tip: Did you know that Hue was once the former royal capital of Vietnam and is renowned as one of the country's most remarkable culinary destinations?
Day 6: Hue drive to Hoi An via Hai Van pass
Today you will be transferred to Hoi An over the scenic Hai Van Pass,probably the most scenic stretch of coastal road in Vietnam. You will visit Cham museum which houses the largest exhibition of Cham sculpture in the world with almost 300 terracotta and stone works of art ranging from the 7th to the 15th centuries. The tour continues with a visit to the Marble Mountains which are a group of five limestone and marble hills in Ngu Hanh Son District. The mountains sheer porous limestone is punctuated by caves and tunnels which are fitted with spectacular Buddhist and Hindu shrines. Check in your hotel in Hoi An.
Tip: For your first night in Hoi An, why not take a leisurely walk or use the hotel's shuttle bus to visit Hoi An Ancient Town? Take in the charming atmosphere, indulge in some delicious local cuisine, and unwind at a riverside bar.
Day 7: Hoi An Full Day City Tour with iconic sites and rural Hoi An.
Begin your story of Hoi An, a former port that welcomed Chinese, Dutch, French, Japanese, Portuguese and Arab merchants between the 16th to 18th centuries. Today it is renowned for its old quarter lined with two-storey Chinese shops, with elaborate carved wooden facades and terracotta tile roofs. And not forgetting expert tailor shops and delicious food! The tour includes stops at several famous landmarks. The first is Chua Ong Pagoda, dating back to 1653 and built in honor of the Chinese general Quan Cong, who is worshipped by many as a symbol of loyalty and justice. Next, pop into Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, to see the Jinshan Temple which is dedicated to the goddess of the sea and the protector of sailors. From there it’s a short walk to Tam Ky House, a 200 year old ancestral house and finally, stroll across the often photographed 17th century covered bridge built by Japanese craftsmen. The beautifully built bridge doubles as a temple and is a major landmark of Hoi An.
After lunch, visit Cam Kim Village, a tranquil rural area not far from Hoi An. Here, you’ll have the chance to explore the village’s traditional crafts, including wood carving and mat weaving. As you stroll through the village, observe skilled artisans at work, and learn about the techniques that have been passed down through generations. You can also engage with local craftsmen, gaining insights into their daily lives and the significance of their crafts within the community. This visit provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the authentic culture of Vietnam while enjoying the picturesque countryside setting of Cam Kim Village.
Tip: Consider extending your stay in Hoi An if your schedule permits. There's always more to explore! Take some time to relax with a massage, shop for local treasures, or embark on a tour to visit the fascinating My Son Sanctuary, an ancient Cham site. Alternatively, you can visit the iconic Golden Bridge, famed for its unique design reminiscent of being lifted by two giant hands.
Day 8: Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City - Half Day Tour
Your guide will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your flight Upon arrival, your guide or drive will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel.
In the afternoon enjoy a half day walking tour of Saigon. Start your Story of Saigon with a visit to the War Remnants Museum. Here, your guide will tell the story of the city’s darkest and most tragic hours during the Vietnam War. The museum contains displays of military aircraft, weaponry and many photographs - some that are quite graphic in nature. Although many of Vietnam’s 90 million people are now too young to remember the war, its legacy is still felt strongly across Vietnamese society. Next, visit the Reunification Palace, once a symbol of the South Vietnamese Government. It was here on 30 April 1975, that the war ended when a North Vietnamese Army tank crashed through its gates. See the war room, the banquet hall and the presidential office with the unusual gifts which have been received. Then, continue to the Central Post Office, designed and constructed by the renowned architect Gustave Eiffel, and take a moment to send a postcard! Just behind the post office is the Notre Dame Cathedral, an iconic Saigon landmark built in neo-Romanesque style by the French between 1863 and 1880. Today it’s a favoured backdrop for Vietnamese wedding photographs.Next, stroll down follow Dong Khoi Street, which figured prominently in Graham Greene’s famous Vietnam novel, The Quiet American, as Rue Catinat. The walk ends at the Saigon Opera House. From a bomb shelter to housing the parliamentary Lower House, the Opera House has had an interesting history.
Day 9: Mekong Delta Full Day Tour
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A short 2 hour car transfer delivers you to the pristine natural beauty that is Ben Tre Province. Known as “Coconut Island,” many of its people still rely on tradition and centuries old methods of production. Visit Monkey Bridge, or "Cầu Khỉ" in Vietnamese, a traditional and picturesque type of bridge found in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. Next, we'll journey to a coconut farm, immersing ourselves in local life and witnessing firsthand the coconut production process. You'll have the opportunity to learn about the making of coconut products and experience the art of crafting sleeping mats alongside the locals. Following this, we'll embark on a tranquil rowing boat ride through the narrow coconut canals, enveloped by lush greenery, before continuing our exploration by motor cart through charming villages and scenic landscapes, providing an authentic glimpse into local culture and fostering interactions with welcoming locals. To conclude our adventure, we'll enjoy a delectable lunch at a local home, savouring traditional Vietnamese dishes crafted from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. You will then be transferred back to your hotel.
Tip: The Mekong Delta is renowned for its tasty and unique cuisine, including Banh Xeo (crispy rice pancakes with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts), Hu Tieu (rice noodles in a flavorful broth), and Ca Tai Tuong Chien Gion (deep-fried elephant ear fish). While you'll sample these dishes on your day trip, think about extending your visit to stay overnight in the Mekong. This will allow you to savor more delicious food and experience the lively morning floating market the region is famous for.
Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City - fly to Siem Reap, evening PHARE Circus tour
Day is at leisure until you are transferred to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival in Siem Reap, check in your hotel and relax.
In the evening, enjoy a vibrant show at Phare, The Cambodian Circus, a truly unique cultural experience. The performance celebrates Cambodian culture through a blend of acrobatics, live music, theater, and dance, weaving compelling stories inspired by traditional folklore and contemporary life. Operated by the non-profit organization Phare Ponleu Selpak, the circus also serves as a social enterprise, providing free education and arts training to underprivileged youth, empowering them to break free from poverty and pursue meaningful careers.
Day 11: Siem Reap Full Day Temple Tour
Feel your excitement build as you drive through towering old trees on your way to the awe-inspiring Angkor Complex. The tour will begin at Bayon, a richly decorated temple. Its most distinctive feature is the hundreds of smiling faces that grace the towers. Impressive bas-reliefs tell stories of daily life and of the great battles that were fought between the Khmers and ancient Thais.
Continue to Ta Prohm, one of Cambodia’s most beloved temples. Unusually, Ta Prohm is in much the same condition in which it was found. The combination of large trees growing out of the ruins and the surrounding jungle give the temple a truly magical feel.
In the afternoon explore the magnificent Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument and best-preserved temple in the complex. This visually spectacular massive three-tired pyramid has become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its flag. Admire the grandeur of its architecture and its extensive decoration of bas-relief friezes. End your day taking in the views of the sunset over the jungle from the top of Pre Rup Temple before returning to Siem Reap.
Note: While you'll have the opportunity to see some of the most famous temples on this trip, we can also arrange visits to Koh Ker, Cambodia's newest UNESCO Heritage Site, or Banteay Srei temple, known as the 'citadel of women, where you can see the most intricate carvings.
Day 12: Tonle Sap half day tour, fly to Phnom Penh
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Take a short 15-kilometer drive to Tonle Sap Lake, located south of Siem Reap. Here embark on a cruise to Kompong Phluk, an isolated Khmer community of three villages built on stilts. The community hasabout 3,000 residents who farm fish and vegetables on the floating platforms.Admire the floating village with a Buddhist monastery right in the middle. The cruise will also take you through the flooded forests that surround the village, a unique ecosystem where millions of fish come to spawn each season, attracting a myriad of water birds. Enjoy the views and keep an eye out for wildlife, especially birds and crab-eating macaques.
In the afternoon fly to Phnom Penh.
Interesting fact: The Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia experiences a unique phenomenon where its water flow changes direction twice a year. During the dry season, the lake drains into the Mekong River. However, during the rainy season, the Mekong River swells with water, causing the Tonle Sap River to reverse its flow direction, effectively filling the Tonle Sap Lake and expanding its surface area. This phenomenon is essential for maintaining the lake's ecosystem and biodiversity and supports the livelihoods of many people living in the surrounding areas.
Day 13: Killing Fields and Toul Sleng Museum Tour
This fascinating half-day tour provides deeper insight into Cambodia’s history and highlights two of the Khmer Rouge regime’s most chilling legacies. Start the day at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former secondary school that was converted by Khmer Rouge into one of the regime’s largest detention and torture centers, Security Prison 21. An important educational site, the museum chronicles the Cambodian genocide and documents the atrocities that occurred within its walls. Please note that images on display are graphic and can be unsettling. Next visit Choeung Ek, one of the mass grave sites of the Killing Fields, where the Khmer Rouge executed over a million men, women, and children between the years 1975 and 1979. Today, Choeung Ek is a memorial with a Buddhist stupa filled with skulls and bones to honor the victims.
Day 14: Phnom Penh - Departure
At leisure until you are transferred to the airport for your departure flight.
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