All about Vietnam 12 Days

Embark on a captivating day of exploration in Hanoi. Begin by paying your respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, delving into the legacy of Uncle Ho through his artifacts housed in the Still House, Presidential Palace, and One Pillar Pagoda. Your journey continues with a visit to the Temple of Literature, renowned as Vietnam's first university. Lunch will be at your leisure. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the captivating Museum of Ethnology, offering a treasure trove of artifacts representing 54 ethnic groups. Bask in the serene surroundings of the museum's green space. Later, dive into the vibrant Old Quarter, an exciting district where you'll encounter a plethora of products ranging from delectable street food to exquisite jewelry. Accompanied by our knowledgeable guide, venture into hidden alleys to savor some of the city's most delightful dishes. As the afternoon winds down, return to your hotel, enriched by the day's experiences. Spend the night in the comfort of your Hanoi accommodation.

Embark on a morning journey to Ninh Binh, a captivating drive of 110 km that takes approximately 2 hours. Arrive at Van Long Nature Reserve, famed for its starring role in the movie "Kong: Skull Island." Glide serenely in a rowboat through this wetland haven for about 1.5 hours, gazing upon the majestic limestone peaks and verdant rice fields. Next, venture to Gia Hung village, where an 8 km bike ride along the Boi river dike awaits. Uncover the essence of the local community and its surroundings as you pedal through the landscape. Continue your expedition to Nho Quan village for a convivial lunch among the welcoming locals. Afterwards, step back in time with a visit to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Explore the remnants of the 10th-century Dinh and Le dynasties, immersing yourself in Vietnam's storied history. Return to Hanoi, with dinner at your discretion. Retire for the night at your Hanoi hotel.

Indulge in a hearty breakfast at your hotel as we prepare for another captivating journey. Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, beckons with its breathtaking natural landscapes. As we traverse the vast rice paddies and imposing mountain ranges of the Red River delta, Halong Bay emerges as a gem on the horizon. Upon arrival, a tender will transfer you to a Junk boat for a spellbinding cruise on the bay. Savor a delectable lunch served on board. In the afternoon, the tender transports us to Halong's captivating caves, adorned with mesmerizing stalactites and stalagmites. Take a refreshing dip in the bay's warm waters as the ship halts, or opt for a kayaking adventure to intimately connect with the tropical beauty. As twilight falls, the anchor drops for an enchanting overnight stay on the bay. Enjoy a delectable dinner on board, followed by a myriad of engaging activities. Please note that a shared shuttle bus with an English-speaking guide will transport you to Halong. For information about private transfers, please consult our travel consultants.

Awake with the rising sun to relish the serene ambiance and the gentle caress of sunlight over the bay. Enjoy your onboard breakfast as the vessel continues its voyage to remote enclaves. Around midday, following a light lunch aboard, return to the pier for your shuttle bus back to Hanoi. Upon arriving in Hanoi, a private car (no guide) will be waiting to escort you to the airport for your flight to Danang. Upon your arrival at Danang airport, our guide and driver will warmly greet you and transfer you to the charming town of Hoian. Your evening's culinary adventure is at your discretion. Unwind in comfort at your Hoian hotel.

Begin your day with a sumptuous breakfast at the hotel. Embark on an invigorating market escapade this morning. Accompanied by our knowledgeable guide, venture into a local market in Hoian, where the tapestry of people and produce unfurls before you. Engage with the locals, honing your bargaining skills and absorbing invaluable insights. Our journey then takes us to the Bay Mau nipa palm forest. Traverse this lush haven aboard a coracle—an enchanting mode of transport. As you meander through the verdant mangroves, discover charming palm leaf souvenirs, including hats, rings, and watches lovingly crafted by villagers. Engage in the delightful folk game of "bit mat dap nieu" and refresh with local tea as a cooking class unfolds. Enrich your understanding of Vietnamese culinary culture during a lively demonstration by the chef. Relish the fruits of your labor with a self-prepared lunch. Embark on a serene boat ride along the Thu Bon river, observing the rhythms of daily life and fishing practices of the countryside dwellers. In the afternoon, return to the town center for a leisurely stroll amidst the captivating architectural blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences. Immerse yourself in the stories held by Hoian's historic structures, including the Hoian Museum, Phuoc Kien Assembly Hall, Tan Ky Old House, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. As the day winds to a close, the choice for dinner is yours. Retire to your hotel in Hoian for a restful night's sleep.

Embark on a westward journey today to encounter Vietnam's most resplendent historical and spiritual treasure – My Son Sanctuary. Nestled within a sacred valley on the Indochina mountain range, My Son Sanctuary emerged during the 4th century under the dominion of the Champa Kingdom. Over the course of 900 years, 68 grand Hindu temples dedicated to the deity Shiva were erected. However, the ravages of war have preserved just 25 of these architectural marvels. Crafted from fired bricks meticulously assembled without mortar, adorned with intricate sandstone carvings, these sanctuaries echo with ancient reverence. Return to Hoian later this morning. The remainder of the day is yours to savor at your leisure. Delight in delectable meals on your own accord. Your overnight sanctuary is the Hoian hotel.

Embark on a leisurely morning, free to explore the enchanting ancient town and procure heartfelt mementos for loved ones. Come afternoon, prepare to be escorted to Da Nang airport without a guide for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon landing, our expert guide and chauffeur await to whisk you away to your hotel for check-in. Dine as your heart desires. Your night of repose awaits at the hotel.

Kickstart your morning by being chauffeured to the Cu Chi Tunnels by car - a sprawling subterranean network stretching 250 kilometers. This intricate labyrinth served as a refuge for Vietnamese fighters during the American war, encompassing not only living quarters and communication channels, but also hospitals and caches for weaponry and sustenance. Experience the intense conditions of that era firsthand by venturing into the tunnels themselves. Return to the heart of the city, where the afternoon unveils an urban escapade. Embark on a city tour, admiring the resplendent French architecture that graces Ho Chi Minh City. Wander through iconic locales such as the venerable Old Saigon post office, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the grand Opera House, the Reunification Palace, and the vibrant Chinatown, Cholon. Dine at your leisure, embracing the city's culinary offerings. Unwind for the night at your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Embark on a full-day odyssey into the vibrant tapestry of the Mekong Delta. A scenic drive of 2.5 - 3 hours from Ho Chi Minh City will transport you to Ben Tre. Launch your adventure on the Chet Say River, a tributary of the Mekong. Delve into the region's local life and traditional craftsmanship, including the production of coconut-based products, activated charcoal, and handwoven mats. A serene neighboring village beckons, inviting exploration by way of "xe loi" - a unique motorized trishaw - or bicycle. Traverse lush landscapes and verdant paddy fields as you savor the experience. Relish a delectable lunch at a local residence, indulging in an array of savory delights. In the afternoon, partake in a picturesque canal voyage before transitioning to Can Tho city. Enjoy an evening of culinary discovery on your own terms. Retire for the night at your Can Tho lodging.

Embark on a captivating journey from Ninh Kieu Pier as you embark on a boat bound for the enchanting Cai Rang floating market. This bustling aquatic marketplace teems with sampan boats laden with an array of tropical fruits ranging from succulent mangos to aromatic durians. Immerse yourself in the genuine rhythm of Mekong Delta life, gaining firsthand insight into the daily routines of the locals. Relish a delicious lunch at a local eatery before retracing your steps to Ho Chi Minh City. Your evening meal is at your discretion. Nestle in for the night at your hotel, embracing the memories of the day.

Devote your final day to securing meaningful mementos for your cherished ones. In preparation for your departure, you'll be chauffeured to the airport. While no guide accompanies you on this leg, our team is on hand to ensure a seamless transfer experience. Indulge in your choice of meals along the way. As this unforgettable journey comes to a close, we bid you farewell. Safe travels and journey's end!