Compare Treasures of Vietnam by Intrepid Travel vs Central Vietnam's culture & coast by Audley Travel
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| Trip |
4.5 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 8 days | 14 days |
| Price From | $ 1,467 | $ 6,054 |
| Price Per Day | $ 183 | $ 432 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Private guided tour |
| Lodging Level | Premium | Standard |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Ground transport included |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
Discover the spirit of Vietnam on a trip from south to north, taking in all the attractions in between. Explore Vietnam's fast-paced Ho Chi Minh City, wander the ancient streets of Hoi An and bask in the charm of Hanoi. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a former Viet Cong stronghold that provides an insight into the resourcefulness and tenacity of the Vietnamese people. Experience Vietnam's beautiful landscapes, the renowned friendliness of the Vietnamese people, and sample local food wherever you go, from street snacks at markets to an included lunch that supports locals. Top it all off with an overnight cruise on Halong Bay and you won't ever want to leave. |
From the French-colonial architecture of Hanoi and the karst scenery of Halong Bay to the mercantile history of Hoi An, our Vietnam specialists will use their personal experience of the country to plan your holiday to Vietnam in detail. That might include arranging for you to view fast-paced Saigon from the back of a Vespa, or spend languid days cruising the Mekong Delta or by the beach in Ninh Van Bay. |
Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City
Xin chao! Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, a French-infused city with a dynamic atmosphere. If you arrive early, perhaps head to Pham Ngu Lao Street to see the local open-aired market or visit Vinh Nghiem Pagoda. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you will meet your tour leader and fellow travellers.
Day 2 Ho Chi Minh City
This morning you’ll tour the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. This former Viet Cong stronghold provides an insight into the resourcefulness and tenacity of the Vietnamese people, as well as underground life during the Vietnam War. Travel back to Ho Chi Minh City to grab some lunch if you wish, before a visit to the Reunification Palace. Formerly known as the Presidential Palace, it was the site of South Vietnam's surrender at the end of the war. Afterwards, you can opt to visit the War Remnants Museum where you’ll see old military equipment including an F5A fighter and a UH1-Huey helicopter, or you may like to head back to your hotel to make plans for your evening.
Day 3 Hoi An
Say goodbye to Ho Chi Minh City and fly to Danang where you’ll travel in a private vehicle to Hoi An, a captivating city where traditional and modern sit side by side. Late this afternoon, you’re in for a culinary treat. Join your leader and head to Tra Que where you will tour a local chef's garden, selecting fresh herbs and vegetables that will form part of your exclusive group dinner. Relax in the peaceful surroundings while your private chef prepares a delicious spread that celebrates his garden's seasonal best.
Day 4 Hoi An
Your leader will take you on a walk around Hoi An’s Old Town today. The city was a major trading port from the 17th century onwards, and has various architectural influences from Europe, China and Vietnam. Today the city is being restored and looks exactly like it did over a century ago. The tour will take you to a historic house, the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese assembly hall and a museum. The rest of the day is free for you to do some optional activities or soak up the ambience of the city. You may like to wander past street stalls selling paintings, woodwork, ceramics, lanterns and much more or get an outfit made by one of Hoi An’s talented tailors who can make beautiful items to order within a few hours.
Day 5 Hanoi
This morning, transfer to the airport and fly to Vietnam’s charming capital of Hanoi. You’ll be taken on a guided half-day tour of Hanoi, visiting major sites such as the Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda and the former residence of Vietnam’s most famous revolutionary, Ho Chi Minh. Stop for lunch at the KOTO cafe, an uplifting project that provides vocational training for disadvantaged young people. This afternoon is yours to explore your way, so ask your leader for their advice and tailor your time to perfection. Food, history, culture – whatever you’re most interested in, your leader will be able to help. You may like to take a stroll around the city’s parks and lakes, or hire a bike and cycle around town for the best view of the city.
Day 6 Halong Bay
Travel by private vehicle to famous Halong Bay, one of Vietnam's most spectacular natural wonders. Once you arrive at the bay, take a long, slow cruise through the area, exploring the beautiful green waters and amazing Surprise Cave. Want to get in the water? You may also have the opportunity to go swimming from Ti Top Island beach. Watch the sunset over the limestone karsts and spend the night on the boat which has comfortable twin-share cabins with air-conditioning and private facilities. There's also a dining room and bar where you’ll enjoy all of your meals, including fresh seafood for lunch and dinner.
Day 7 Hanoi
You may like to get up early and watch the sunrise before you spend a leisurely morning sailing across Halong Bay and back to the port. Sit back and relax on the drive to Hanoi and get ready to shop until you drop at Dong Xuan market or explore the city. Why not relax at a cafe for an egg coffee or stop for a bia hoi (freshly brewed draught beer) at one of the microbars that dot this amazing city? Tonight, you may like to join your group for an optional dinner to celebrate the end of your trip.
Day 8 Hanoi
After breakfast, you are free to leave at any time, as there are no activities planned today. If you would like to spend some more time in Hanoi, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
Day 1 : International outbound flight
Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Danang.
Day 2 : Hoi An
Upon arrival in Hoi An you will be met and transferred to your accommodation. The evening is free to relax or explore at your own leisure.
Day 3 : Hoi An
Explore the UNESCO town of Hoi An with your guide on hand to offer his expert knowledge and help you unearth some hidden gems in this charming town. Afterwards take a drive out to the ancient Cham ruins at My Son; a magical place which was once claimed by the mighty jungle surrounding it.
Day 4 : Hoi An
Today you will head out the water on traditional bucket boats to experience the everyday life of the Vietnamese fisherman. Explore local fishing communities before trying your hand at catching your own. A fresh seafood lunch will be served on-board afterwards.Afternoon at leisure.
Day 5 : Bho Hoong
Stray off the beaten track today and experience rural village life as it once was with a fascinating insight into the Vietnamese Cot Tu minority.Overnight in a traditional bungalow.
Day 6 : Hue
Leaving the mountains behind you will journey north along the HCM trail to the ancient capital of Hue.Upon arrival you will check into your hotel.Evening at leisure.
Day 7 : Hue
Today you will be collected from your hotel and taken to the jetty in time to meet your Dragon Boat which will take you up the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and Ming Mang`s Mausoleum.Afternoon at leisure.
Day 8 : Hue
Enjoy a morning cooking course at a locally renowned restaurant. This will give you a fascinating insight into the wonderfully varied Vietnamese cuisine.Afternoon at leisure.
Day 9 : Lang Co
Today you will travel south along the coast to the idyllic Lang Co coastline.Check into the Banyan Tree.
Day 10 : Lang Co
The day is free to relax or explore at your own leisure. You may want to try out some of the activities on offer at the resort.
Day 11 : Lang Co
Being in close proximity to Bach Ma National Park the area is home to some good light trekking opportunities. Alternatively if you do not wish to explore the resort has a number wonderful spots to relax in.
Day 12 : Lang Co
Last full day to relax by the beach. Tonight why not enjoy a beachside dining experience.
Day 13 : Singapore
This morning you will be collected from your hotel and taken to the airport in time for your flight back to Singapore.Upon arrival you will make your own way to your city hotel using the vastly efficient transport system.Check in to the Fullerton.
Day 14 : International return flight
Make your way back to the airport in time for your onward arrangements. Your return flight will arrive the same day.
