Captivating Vietnam

All guests are warmly welcomed upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport by our local guide. Transfer to check in to the hotel (check in time: 14:00 local time) then free afternoon at your own leisure. Overnight in Hanoi.

Following breakfast at the hotel, embark on a picturesque 2.5 to 3-hour journey to the enchanting Halong Bay. As you reach the jetty in Halong City around noon, you'll smoothly complete the check-in process. Step aboard your cruise ship and savour a delectable lunch while you start your voyage through the bay's stunning scenery. In the afternoon, engage in captivating visits and activities outlined in the boat's itinerary or simply unwind on the vessel, taking in the breathtaking surroundings. As the day winds down, the boat will find its resting place among the mesmerising karst formations, and you'll be treated to a sumptuous dinner served on board. Your overnight stay on Halong Bay promises tranquility and natural beauty.

Included dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin your day with the crisp morning air in the heart of Halong Bay, where the sun gracefully rises over this stunning natural wonder. Once breakfast is savoured, the vessels will leisurely cruise through the magnificent rock formations, gently making their way back towards the port. It's a peaceful journey that allows you to immerse yourself in the ethereal beauty of Halong Bay's landscapes. Upon disembarking, you'll be transferred to Tuan Chau Marina, where a thrilling experience awaits. You'll take to the skies on a scenic flight, soaring above the surreal seascapes of Ha Long Bay. Witness the nearly 2,000 limestone islands emerging from the emerald and green waters, sprawling across an area of almost 2,000 square kilometers. The 25-minute scenic flight offers an entirely fresh perspective on the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay. From the air, the countless islands resemble vast mountain ranges, encapsulating the very essence of "Ha Long," meaning "descending dragon." The state-of-the-art Cessna Grand Caravan 208B-EX seaplane can accommodate up to 12 passengers, ensuring that everyone enjoys an outstanding vantage point for this awe-inspiring journey.

Arriving in Hanoi later in the afternoon, you'll have the opportunity to explore the famous Dong Xuan Market and traverse the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, characterized by its 36 winding lanes. This is an ideal time for shopping and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere before heading to your comfortable 3-star hotel for some well-deserved relaxation. Around 21:30, you'll be transferred to Hanoi Railway Station for the next leg of your adventure. You'll board the overnight train to Lao Cai, where you'll find private sleeping compartments (2 pax/ compartment). The train is set to depart at approximately 22:00.

Please note that train schedules are subject to change. Train journeys are an integral part of the authentic local experience. Restrooms are conveniently situated at either end of the carriages, completing the immersive local experience.

Included dining: Breakfast

At the break of dawn, around 06:30 hours, your journey brings you to Lao Cai, a border town neighbouring Yunnan, China. From here, an enchanting adventure begins as you embark on a 38-kilometre drive along winding mountain roads, ascending to the charming town of Sapa, nestled at an altitude of approximately 1,500 metres above sea level. On clear days, the majestic Fansipan, Vietnam's highest peak, graces the horizon.

After indulging in a satisfying breakfast at a local restaurant, you'll set out from Sapa town, descending to the captivating Lao Chai village. This route offers panoramic views of the Muong Hoa Valley and its magnificent surroundings, adorned with towering mountains and verdant rice terrace fields. Along the journey, you're likely to encounter people from various ethnic minority groups, such as the H'mong, Zay, and Red Dao. Along the roadside, there are stalls where you can partake in refreshing tea, savour fresh fruits, and enjoy delectable sweets. As you leave the main road and venture onto a local path, you'll reach the Black H'mong village of Lao Chai. Here, you'll have the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily life of the villagers, gaining insights into their customs and traditions. Continuing your walk from Lao Chai, you'll make your way to the picturesque Ta Van Village, home to the Zay hill tribes. Here, you can take a well-deserved break and relish a mouthwatering lunch, thoughtfully prepared by your local guide in a traditional local house. Following your delicious meal, the journey continues, leading you to the meeting point for your return transfer to Sapa town.

The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Take this time to explore the charms of Sapa town on your own terms, where you can browse the bustling markets, marvel at the vibrant traditional attire worn by the ethnic communities and savour the ambiance of tea and coffee shops. Delight in the essence of local life in this picturesque mountain town. Your day concludes with a comfortable overnight stay at a hotel in Sapa.

Included dining: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, your journey begins by descending into the lowest valley of Sapa. The scenic drive, approximately 2 hours long, unveils a captivating landscape with lush paddy terraces and cornfields, making it the largest terrace paddy in Sapa town. You'll also pass through Ban Ho village. Your vehicle will ascend to My Son Village and then on to Nam Cang Village, situated at the far end of the Sapa valley, home to various minority groups like Xa Pho, Red Zao, and White H'mong.  Your journey takes you through Nam Than Village, and from there, you'll continue hiking towards the picturesque Nam Nhiu Village, where the Red Dao people reside. Here, you'll relish panoramic views of towering mountains and have the opportunity to visit the homes of the local minority people. Crossing a suspension bridge, you'll embark on a trek that leads to charming small waterfalls, and you'll be enveloped by the soothing sounds of the forest, with birdsong filling the air. After approximately 2 hours of trekking, you'll savour a delicious lunch in a traditional stilted house in Thanh Phu Village.

Following your meal, you'll be transferred back to Sapa, where you can take in the mesmerising mountain sunset. This countryside adventure promises a remarkable escape from the ordinary and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of these hidden villages. Back to your hotel for refreshment. After a brief respite, you'll be transferred to Lao Cai Railway Station. There, you'll board the overnight train to Hanoi, with private sleeping compartments (2 pax/ compartment). The train is set to depart at approximately 21:30.

Please note that train schedules are subject to change. Restrooms are available at either end of the carriages, adding to the authenticity of your journey.

Included dining: Breakfast, Lunch

Upon your early morning arrival in Hanoi, you'll be met at the train station and then transferred to a comfortable 3-star hotel, where you can enjoy a hearty breakfast and take some time to refresh before commencing your Hanoi City Tour. Your day starts with a visit to the renowned Temple of Literature. Dating back to 1076, this historic site was Vietnam's very first university and served as an educational institution for the country's royalty, mandarins, and elite members for an impressive seven centuries. Its beautifully landscaped gardens and well-preserved architecture offer a captivating window into Vietnam's rich heritage. Following this, you'll explore The One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic temple with a rich history. Established by King Ly Thai To in 1049, this structure, though compact, carries significant cultural and historical weight. Nearby, you'll encounter the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, a pivotal figure in modern Vietnam's history, and the Former President's House on stilts. This stilted residence was his home from 1958 to 1969 and exemplifies his modest lifestyle.

Please be aware that the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed to the public on Mondays and Fridays. From June to August, you'll be able to view it from the outside.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, after which you'll be transferred to Noi Bai Airport for your domestic flight to Hue.

In the afternoon, you'll touch down at Phu Bai Airport in Hue, the former Imperial City of the last Vietnamese dynasty. Located in central Vietnam, Hue stands as a unique place where a wealth of historic, cultural, architectural, and artistic values have been meticulously preserved. Its tangible cultural heritage comprises a network of historic monuments, while the intangible cultural heritage encompasses the enchanting Imperial court music. Both are recognized as World Cultural Heritages, both on a national and international scale. Furthermore, Hue serves as the confluence point of the northern and southern ecosystems, boasting lush river-hills, verdant landscapes, and natural beauty. You'll receive a warm welcome from our local guide and then be transferred to your hotel for check-in. Overnight in Hue.

Included dining: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, your guide will meet you to kick off a day of exploration at the Imperial City of Hue. This historic citadel, built under the direction of Emperor Gia Long and located on the northern bank of the Perfume River, was designed exclusively for the Emperor and his royal household. The Citadel consists of a square wall measuring 2 kilometers in length, enclosing three distinct areas: the Citadel itself (known as Kinh Thanh Hue), the Yellow Imperial City (Hoang Thanh), and the central Forbidden Purple City (Tu Cam Thanh), which served as the Emperor's residence. The entire complex of the Hue royal structures has been officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your tour also includes a visit to the Museum of Royal Antiquities.

Your exploration continues with a serene boat journey along the Perfume River, leading you to the Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue's most ancient religious architectural marvels. Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant. Following that, you'll visit the Tu Duc Royal Tomb. You will have a chance to admire the stunning architecture, the tranquil settings, and the legacy of Emperor Tu Duc. Then explore the historic Hue Tiger Arena, a remarkable structure constructed during the early 19th century under the reign of Emperor Minh Mang from the Nguyen dynasty. Renowned as a one-of-a-kind arena on a global scale, this iconic venue served as the training ground where the military forces of the Nguyen Dynasty honed their skills in elephant combat, pitting these mighty creatures against fearsome tigers. Overnight in Hue.

Included dining: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning you will meet with our guide at the hotel. Then you will start cycling to Thanh Thuy village (8km east of Hue). On the way you will experience the rural life of the Hue countryside. Tour continues to visit Thanh Toan Tile – Roofed Bridge. It is considered unique and has a high artistic value among Vietnam’s historic bridges. It is designed in the form of a house above a bridge, giving it the appearance of a traditional house from a distance. You will have a chance to learn about the Thanh Toan Bridge’s history and why it has been designated as a cultural monument in Vietnam, as well as what makes it so beautiful and well-known. Then you will have the opportunity to explore the local market, which, unlike other commercial centres, retains the spirit of the Vietnamese ancient market.

On the other side of the bridge, there is an Agricultural Museum with a variety of tools for farmers working on the rice field in the olden days. This is also a great place to learn about rice cultivation and harvesting. Afterward, take a rest and have some Vietnamese local drink. Relax and take in the scenery of the village while keeping an eye on the locals before cycling back to hotel. Remainder of the day free for your own activities. Overnight in Hue.

Included dining: Breakfast

This morning, your journey embarks on a breathtaking drive across the Hai Van Pass to Da Nang, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the charming Lang Co fishing village. Your travels then take you to the delightful historic city of Hoi An, which graces the banks of the Thu Bon River. In the 16th century, Hoi An served as one of Southeast Asia's primary trading hubs, and in 1999, it was declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Upon your arrival in Hoi An, lunch will be provided at a local restaurant before hotel check-in. 

In the afternoon, you'll have the opportunity to explore Hoi An, a town known to early Western merchants and one of the major trading hubs in Southeast Asia during the 16th century. Hoi An possesses a distinctive Chinese-Vietnamese ambiance, characterised by its charming low-tiled roof houses and winding narrow streets. Furthermore, Hoi An's enchanting surroundings, particularly the picturesque countryside, should not be missed during your Hoi An visit. Walking is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of Hoi An and its environs. Your leisurely strolls will take you to historical merchant and community houses, places of worship, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Along the way, you'll have the chance to observe the daily lives of local residents. As you wander through this enchanting landscape, you'll encounter lush paddy fields, thriving vegetable gardens, bustling markets, serene temples, well-preserved historic houses, and hardworking fishermen, all set against the backdrop of stunning countryside vistas. This tour offers countless photo opportunities and the possibility of engaging in conversations with friendly locals, leaving you with indelible memories. Overnight in Hoi An.

Included dining: Breakfast, Lunch

Embark on a journey to My Son, the Imperial City of the Champa Empire, which flourished between the 4th and 12th centuries. My Son Sanctuary is a sprawling complex of religious ruins, featuring over 70 architectural remnants. Afternoon, free at your own leisure. Overnight in Hoi An.

Included dining: Breakfast, Lunch

Commence your day at 8 am with a warm welcome beverage at Hai Café in the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town. Embark on a brief 10-minute minivan ride to the serene Tra Que Organic Village, where you'll stroll through lush market gardens tended by local farmers. Witness these dedicated cultivators utilising traditional farming techniques, devoid of any modern electrical machinery. During this idyllic walk, you'll have the opportunity to handpick fresh saw-tooth coriander and Vietnamese mint, which you'll later use in your cooking class. At a local home, savour a unique herbal beverage. Next, venture to the local village market armed with a shopping list, and procure an assortment of local ingredients, such as star anise, cardamom, sesame rice paper, water spinach, and banana flower. Upon arriving at the Cooking School, you'll have a moment to freshen up before commencing your culinary class. Collaborate with our skilled chef to acquire the traditional art of crafting Vietnamese dishes from scratch. Using the freshest ingredients and traditional Vietnamese utensils, still employed to this day, you'll prepare four renowned dishes, including the beloved national dish, 'Pho.' Following the class, gather to relish the fruits of your culinary labour.

Conclude the day with a leisurely 25-minute cruise along the Hoi An River, returning to central Hoi An. Don't forget to bring your swimsuit, as after the cooking adventure, you can unwind and take advantage of complimentary access to our 20-metre swimming pool. The day's activities will wrap up at around 2:30 pm, with a transfer back to your hotel in Hoi An. Enjoy your overnight stay in this charming town.

Included dining: Breakfast, Lunch

You have the day to yourself, with no scheduled activities, guide, tours, or transportation. Enjoy your leisure time in Hoi An. You'll spend the night in this charming town at your own pace.

Included dining: Breakfast

Enjoy your free time for personal activities until it's time to transfer to Da Nang Airport for your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, our local guide will warmly welcome you and assist with your hotel check-in.

In the evening at 17:30, immerse yourself in Saigon's burgeoning craft beer scene with a unique experience. You'll ride pillion on vintage Vespas, visiting a variety of breweries and bars across the city. Our knowledgeable guides will take you on a journey to sample a wide range of craft beers, each with locally inspired flavours, from jasmine to passion fruit to vanilla, as well as traditional varieties. At each vibrant location, your chosen brews will be thoughtfully paired with gourmet tapas and delectable Vietnamese-inspired bites. Learn about the brewing process and challenge your palate as you taste over 15 different brews, including IPAs, golden ales, blonde beers, stouts, and ciders. The master brewers are always experimenting with seasonal specials, so this nighttime adventure is your opportunity to explore the city's lively hotspots while enjoying free-flowing craft beer and inspired food pairings. The tour will conclude around 22:00 - 22:30 at your hotel, where you'll spend the night in Ho Chi Minh City.

Included dining: Breakfast, Dinner

In the morning, your tour guide will meet you at the hotel, and your day will commence with visits to significant historical sites in Ho Chi Minh City. Explore the Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace, and gain insights into its historical importance. Visit the War Remnants Museum to further understand the complex history of the city. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the major colonial-era landmarks of Ho Chi Minh City, including the Old Saigon Post Office, which was designed by Gustav Eiffel and resembles a grand railway station, and the Notre Dame Cathedral, a symbol of French influence in the Orient. Explore Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat), the Continental Hotel, the Opera House, and the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee building (formerly Hôtel de Ville). Notable for its gardens, ornate facade, and an elegant interior lit with crystal chandeliers, the People's Committee building is one of the most photographed structures in Vietnam. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, embark on a 75 km journey from Saigon to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extraordinary complex of underground tunnels constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters, known as the Viet Cong, during both the French and American wars. These tunnels span over 200 km and consist of a main axis system with numerous branches connecting to underground hideouts, shelters, and other tunnels. You'll have the unique opportunity to crawl through this remarkable tunnel network. For a more thrilling experience, you can test your shooting skills using original AK47s and other weapons from past wartime (subject to an additional fee). After the Cu Chi Tunnels visit, return to Ho Chi Minh City for an overnight stay.

Included dining: Breakfast, Lunch

Depart from Ho Chi Minh City around 7:00 am and head south to Ben Tre province, famous for its coconut production and quiet, peaceful waterways. On arrival, take a Xe loi ride through the local village of Huu Dinh to enjoy the green fields and gardens. Continue with a short walk to Huu Phuoc Bridge, where you will start your boat trip through small canals with beautiful tropical scenery. On board the boat, enjoy a welcome drink and tropical fruits while cruising. The cruise will first stop at a Coconut processing family owned business. Here you will learn what Ben Tre is known for and the hundreds of uses of each single coconut.

Your guide will then lead you through a bicycle excursion of around 4 kilometres. Witness the idyllic setting as you ride under the coconut palms, through local villages and past vast rice fields . After your bicycle trip, return to your cruise and cross the river to meet a local farmer, who lives on a large coconut and pomelo garden. Enjoy some of his fresh coconut and have a chat with his family through your guide. Board your day cruise and flow down a branch of the Mekong River. A rowing boat with a local rower will take you through a maze of canals to the local house of Mrs. Huong, who lives with her 3 children and grandson – they live on fishing, shrimp and fruit orchards. Enjoy fresh fruits and tea.

We will then take a motorized cart to a local pier and reconnect with your Day Cruiser and enjoy a cruise to a private riverside restaurant. It is time for you to relax and enjoy a 5-course lunch of local specialties. Relax and have a walk around the lush garden setting. Then continue your cycling trip to My Long to visit Mr Sau Tuong, a former Vietcong soldier who survived two years fighting the Khmer Rouge in Phnom Penh. Now he and his wife live on making rice paper which is the most famous specialty of My Long village. Have a chat with him and enjoy the crispy rice paper made by his wife, and see how it is made. After the visit, your car will be nearby to take you back to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Included dining: Breakfast, Lunch

You have the day at your leisure until it's time for your transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your international flight back home. We trust that you've had a thrilling and memorable holiday with us. Safe travels!

Included dining: Breakfast