10-Day Relaxing from Ho Chi Minh city to Hanoi with Phu Quoc island & Halong Bay

At 08:30, we commence our journey with a visit to Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace. This historic landmark, designed by the architect Ngo Viet Thu, stands on the site of the former Norodom Palace. It gained fame as the site where the Vietnam/American war concluded in 1975 when a North Vietnamese army tank crashed through its gates. The tank remains on the Independence Palace grounds.

Next, we explore the architectural wonders from the French Colonial era, including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the iconic Central Post Office. Our tour proceeds to the impactful War Remnants Museum, showcasing an extensive exhibition on the Indochina wars. The museum's courtyard displays large military vehicles and tiger cages, providing visitors with a glimpse into the wartime experiences of prisoners. Each floor inside the museum focuses on different themes related to the wars and the associated war crimes.

We then embark on a 60km drive from Ho Chi Minh City to Cu Chi Tunnels, a heroic district renowned for its role in the anti-American war. Cu Chi is home to an extensive tunnel system spanning over 220 km, attracting both Vietnamese and international visitors. The peaceful rural landscape now features rice paddies with ducks and water buffalos. It's hard to imagine the devastation caused by bombing and mines during the war when Cu Chi was a "Free Target Zone." Evidence of the fierce battleground remains, offering a glimpse into the area's wartime history. Visitors even have the opportunity to experience firing an AK-47 at Cu Chi Tunnels.

Overnight stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

Departure at 7:45 AM

Embark on a remarkable journey to explore the Mekong Delta, traversing provincial roads through the picturesque Southern region of Vietnam. The scenic drive takes you past lush paddy rice fields, pineapple plantations, orchards, and charming hamlets (2 hours drive).

Upon reaching My Tho, board a local motorboat to cruise along Dragon Island, Unicorn Island, Phoenix Island, and Turtle Island, with a notable stop at the renowned Unicorn Island. Here, partake in a short trek and a serene rowing boat trip. Immerse yourself in the local culture, enjoying tropical fruits in an orchard, sampling natural pure honey at a bee farm, and relishing traditional music.

Continue your motorboat adventure to Ben Tre province, where you'll witness the traditional process of making coconut candy by the Mekong people. Switch to a smaller motorboat and navigate the lush green canals. Make a stop at Mien Tay restaurant to savor a Vietnamese lunch and partake in a delightful bicycle ride around the village. At 3:00 PM, board a bus for the transfer to Can Tho city.

Overnight stay in Can Tho.

Embark on a morning boat journey after breakfast to explore the vibrant Phong Dien floating market, renowned for its bustling atmosphere at this time of day. Cruise through the intricate network of small channels and visit a local rice noodle making village. Experience crossing the unique "Monkey Bridge" in the Delta and proceed to visit a second floating market, Cai Rang. Enjoy a break for lunch.

At 2:00 pm, board a bus for the scenic drive to Rach Gia.

By 5:00 pm, arrive in Rach Gia, where you are free to immerse yourself in the tranquil landscapes.

Overnight stay in Rach Gia.

At 8:00 am, board a hydrofoil from Rach Gia ferry to Phu Quoc island.

By 10:30 am, arrive at Phu Quoc ferry terminal, where you'll be transferred by van to the hotel for check-in.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant around 12:30 pm.

At 2:30 pm, embark on an exploration of the Eastern island, including:

A visit to a pepper garden, where you'll be fascinated by the "itsy-bitsy teeny weeny peppercorns" meticulously grown by patient cultivators.
Ham Ninh ancient village, an opportunity to relish fresh seafood (personal charge).
Tranh Stream: a picturesque waterfall in Phu Quoc.
Hung Long/Phap Quang Pogoda situated on a high hill, offering an overview of the town.
Return to Duong Dong town, with a stop at a Sim wine distillery for a taste of the local wine.
Dinh Cau Temple, a place of worship for the local fishermen.
Return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Phu Quoc.

Commence your exploration with the following options:

Option 1: Excursion Tour

At 8:00 am, transfer to the South of the island and visit:

Fish sauce workshop: Gain insights into fish sauce production and savor the unique aromatic flavor of Phu Quoc fish sauce.
Lunch
Pearl Farm: Observe the process of extracting pearls from oyster shells and witness how these pearls are crafted into silver or gold ornaments.
Coconut prison: Constructed in 1949-1950 by the French colonists, this prison held individuals considered particularly dangerous to the colonial government.
Sao Beach: One of the most beautiful beaches in the Southeast of Phu Quoc Island. Relax and swim, followed by lunch.
Dinner at a local restaurant
Option 2: Snorkeling Tour

At 8:00 am, transfer to the South of the island and visit:

Pearl Farm: Observe the process of extracting pearls from oyster shells and witness how these pearls are crafted into silver or gold ornaments.
Proceed to the pier, board the boat for snorkeling and fishing. The snorkeling set is ready for you to enjoy the vibrant life of coral reefs and underwater fish. Lunch is served on board.
Return to the pier and transfer to Sao Beach: One of the most beautiful beaches in the Southeast of Phu Quoc Island.
Return to the hotel
Spend the night in Phu Quoc.

Check out, and then transfer to Phu Quoc Airport for your flight to Hanoi.

Upon arrival in Hanoi, our driver will be waiting to pick you up and transfer you to the hotel. After completing the check-in process, you have the freedom to explore the fantastic landscapes nearby. Some recommended places to visit include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum, One Pillar Pagoda, Ethnology Museum, Military Museum, Fine Art Museum, Hoan Kiem Lake, and West Lake.

Spend the night in Hanoi.

Around 07:45 – 08:15

– Your guide will rendezvous with you at your lodging. The shuttle bus or private car will be ready for pick-up.

– Relish the serene scenery during our journey through the countryside, farmlands, and the Red River Delta.

– Keep your camera handy to capture photos. We'll have a comfortable break. The travel time from Hanoi to Halong Bay is approximately 3 ½ hours.

Around 12:00 – 12:30

– Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina. Receive a warm welcome aboard the cruise. Freshen up with our welcome drink. Meet the captain and crew during the cruise briefing.

– Settle into your cabin. Take some time to relax and unwind.

– Embark on our journey as lunch is served.

– Join us for a delightful local lunch in the dining room or at the outdoor dining area.

Afternoon

– Reach Surprising Cave (Hang Sửng Sốt), explore the cave, and learn about the cave's intriguing name.

– Sail towards the Titop Island area. Drop anchor in the calm waters surrounded by beautiful islets. Visit Titop Island for swimming and snorkeling or take a short trek to the island's summit for a panoramic view of Halong Bay.

– Return to the sleeping area.

Early Evening

– Gather on the sundeck to watch the sunset and enjoy a Sunset Party. It's an ideal time to make new acquaintances, share your travel experiences, or simply soak in the beauty of the sunset.

– Savor an authentic Vietnamese menu for dinner.

– After dinner, treat yourself to a wide selection of cocktails at our bar or participate in one of our onboard activities: reading, games, movies, and squid fishing...

06:30

For early risers, participate in a Tai Chi session on the sundeck. Tai Chi helps center the mind and condition the body, engaging in a Tai Chi session to fully energize yourself for the day.

07:00 – 08:00

Indulge in a local breakfast.

08:00

– Immerse yourself in the breathtaking views of the Bay and its dramatic limestone islets as we cruise through the calm emerald waters heading to Luon Cave (Hang Luồn).

– Choose to explore the cave either on your own by kayak or comfortably on a bamboo boat rowed by the locals.

09:00

Check out the cabins at your leisure while our cruise takes you past other beautiful highlights in the bay.

10:00

Participate in our short Cooking demonstration class to learn how to make spring rolls before an early lunch is served.

12:00

Return to the shore and disembark from the cruise as our crew bids farewell.

Transfer to a minibus or private vehicle and return to Hanoi.

Arrive back at your accommodation around 16:30.

Stay overnight in Hanoi.

Followed by leisure time. Our car will transfer you from the hotel to the airport for your flight back home. Until we meet again!