Vietnam Experience 12 Days

Bid farewell to the bustling city and welcome the tranquility of river life today as we embark on a remarkable overnight journey in the Mekong Delta – an experience that will linger in your memory. Cruising down the river aboard local sampans, you'll find yourself immersed in unparalleled peace and serenity. In the afternoon, we'll enrich our understanding of the region by visiting a local tea garden, exploring the floating markets, delving into the local industries along the river, and gaining insights into the way of life here. Interacting with some of the warmest people on Earth, this experience will truly immerse us in the local culture, culminating in a night at our Mekong Guesthouse.

Following an early morning meal, we will return to Ho Chi Minh City, taking a detour to explore the awe-inspiring 250-kilometer network of tunnels that constitute the Cu Chi Tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the war. Witness intricate traps, concealed doors, and a portion of the hand-dug 250 kilometers of tunnels that served as a testament to the resilience of Vietnamese resistance fighters. Take the opportunity to descend into the narrow tunnels and experience firsthand this glimpse into Vietnam's remarkable history. Back in the captivating chaos of Vietnam's largest city, you'll have leisure time to continue your explorations. Opting to savor the culinary highlights of Vietnam would undoubtedly be a wise use of your time (in our opinion).

Embarking on some classic rest and relaxation in the afternoon, the morning allows us to don our exploration attire. We'll delve into the realms of history and religion before jetting off to a seaside town that offers stunning views of the South China Sea. With its golden sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a plethora of water sports, Nha Trang awaits. This afternoon, consider indulging in a mineral mud bath and a soothing thermal spring experience before joining your fellow travelers for a delightful dinner. Ah, the sweet pleasures of the good life.

Great news – we're extending our stay in Nha Trang for another night. Indulge in a relaxing massage, consider joining the optional cruise, or simply unwind on the beach, conserving your energy for an evening of seaside bar enjoyment as the sun sets.

Farewell for now, Nha Trang, and greetings to Hoi An. Familiarize yourself with the surroundings with a guided tour of the Old Quarter and fall deeply in love with this enchanting locale. The Japanese Bridge, French Colonial vibes, and vibrantly colored buildings are perpetually captivating. As hunger sets in, we're willing to bet that our optional Vietnamese cooking class will tempt you. It's an opportunity to hone your culinary skills and showcase your newfound expertise to friends back home. With our skilled chef leading the way, you'll soon feel like a cooking maestro. Equipped with your newly acquired skills, consult your Trip Manager for recommendations on where to enjoy a night out with the group.

Explore the ancient Hindu temples, remnants of the Champa Empire, situated on Marble Mountain. Peruse galleries and antique shops, and be fascinated by the traditional techniques of pottery, silk weaving, and wood-carving showcased at the local markets. This is how your day of leisure in Hoi An could unfold.

While we may have become accustomed to the charms of Hoi An, the morning signals the continuation of our journey. After all, the former imperial town of Hue has extended an invitation, and it would be unwise for us to decline. Our initial exploration in Hue reveals intricately adorned pavilions, serene lotus flower ponds, and vibrant artworks. We find ourselves utterly captivated by the Tu Duc Mausoleum before moving on to the 7-story Thien Mu Pagoda. Here, we delve into the harrowing history of the Hue Buddhist massacre and partake in a cyclo ride to gain a fresh perspective of the city.

Today, we take flight from Hue towards Vietnam's timeless capital. A convergence of influences and brimming with romantic allure, our two-night stay here will leave us completely enamored. With an enchanting blend of French, Chinese, and Vietnamese influences, you'll be nothing short of delighted as we check into our Hanoi hotel, situated right in the heart of the bustling Old Quarter. Our time will be spent navigating through a labyrinth of 36 trading streets adorned with vibrant goods, and relaxing in the enclosed gardens of the Temple of Literature. Later, we'll stroll along French-style boulevards and perhaps indulge in a nom ngo sen lotus-stem salad, dau chien ron fried tofu, and a few bia hoi beers.

Following a crash course in Hanoi's history, we set our sights on Halong Bay, where an overnight stay on a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site awaits. As we traverse through breathtaking landscapes, the scenery is bound to elicit numerous 'oh wow's. However, the real magic begins when we step aboard our accommodation for the night – a Chinese-style junk boat in Halong Bay. Experience an immediate sense of serenity as we navigate the seas surrounded by limestone islands in the Gulf of Tonkin. We'll pass through hidden lagoons, dense forests, and enchanting grottos, making stops to explore the Sung Sot Caves. The day concludes with a delectable seafood dinner and a sunset spectacle at our docking spot, marking the end of a remarkable day filled with No Regrets moments and truly unforgettable experiences.

Today is all about embracing leisurely vibes as we wake up to breakfast and the opportunity for a grotto swim. Seize the moment on the junk boat and embark on a kayaking adventure around the breathtaking Halong Bay – the views are truly unparalleled. Upon returning to Hanoi, we find ourselves savoring our last night together on tour. Save the farewell tears for tomorrow – tonight is dedicated to maximizing your free time and maintaining a positive vibe. For those seeking a unique experience, the world-famous water puppet performance in the Red River Delta serves as the perfect farewell option.

Share warm hugs and make plans to reunite in the near future – maybe in Latin America?