Beyond the Tourist Trail: A True Vietnamese Adventure 18-Day

Start your day with a delectable breakfast at the hotel before our amiable guide picks you up to embark on an enriching exploration of Hanoi City. Begin by visiting the Tran Quoc Pagoda, an ancient masterpiece nestled on Golden Fish Island in West Lake. Built in the 6th century, this venerable pagoda showcases remarkable architecture and offers insights into its historical and cultural significance. Next, venture to the Ho Chi Minh complex, where you'll have the opportunity to pay respects to the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden, which houses the two residences where he lived and worked from 1954 to 1969. Then, marvel at the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique sanctuary dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, hailed as a singular architectural wonder. Please note that Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays. In the event that your tour falls on either of these days, an alternative itinerary will be arranged. Continue your journey with a visit to the Vietnam Ethnology Museum, an insightful exploration of the diverse cultures and traditions of the country's 54 ethnic groups. Note that if your tour takes place on a Monday, the museum will be closed, and you'll visit the Women's Museum instead. Indulge in a delightful lunch at our restaurant, savoring the flavors of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Afterward, proceed to the Temple of Literature, an esteemed institution founded in the 11th century as Vietnam's first university. Delve into the rich history of the country's educational system during ancient times. Conclude your city tour with a visit to Hoa Lo Prison, known to American POWs during the Vietnam War as the infamous "Hanoi Hilton." Originally constructed by French colonists, this site holds significant historical importance and offers poignant insights into the nation's past. As the day's adventures come to an end, you will be transferred back to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy your leisure time and a comfortable overnight stay in Hanoi. Accommodation Options: TK-123 Hanoi: 3-star or similar Lenid Hanoi Hotel: 4-star or similar Hotel du Parc Hanoi: 5-star or similar

Embark on a picturesque journey from Hanoi to Sapa, commencing between 6:45-7:00 am. Our attentive tour guide will pick you up and escort you to the departure point on Pick-up Point street in Hanoi Old Quarter. Step aboard the Sapa Express Bus - Noble Limousine 29 seats, renowned as the "Special Aircraft on the Ground" or a similar reputable bus company. As you traverse the scenic Lao Cai - Hanoi highway, be captivated by the awe-inspiring vistas of the northwest mountains and the mesmerizing Red River, all while enjoying a comfortable ride. After approximately 2.5 hours of travel, we'll make a 30-minute rest stop, providing an opportunity to refuel and stretch your legs before continuing the journey. The total duration from Hanoi to Sapa is around 5 hours and 30 minutes, subject to weather and road conditions. Arriving in Sapa around 1:30 pm, you'll check into your hotel and have leisure time to explore the enchanting town at your own pace. Nestled amidst breathtaking natural landscapes, you'll spend the night in Sapa, immersed in its tranquil beauty. Relish in the scenic splendors and relax as you soak up the captivating countryside views throughout this comfortable and picturesque expedition. Accommodation Options: Sapa Luxury Hotel: 3-star or similar Chau Long Sapa 2 Hotel: 4-star or similar Pao's Sapa Leisure Hotel: 5-star or similar

Enjoy a satisfying breakfast at your hotel before we commence our adventure at 9:30 am from Sapa Ethnic, situated at 04 Hoang Dieu Street. Our journey begins by descending the main road, treating you to a captivating vista of the town and the valley below. After approximately 4km, we'll veer onto scenic trails amidst the terraced rice fields, leading us to Y Linh Ho hamlet, home to the Black Hmong community. Follow the riverside path from Y Linh Ho to reach Lao Chai village, aptly named the "old village" in the local dialect. Delve into the culture of the villagers as we visit local families, guided by our knowledgeable expert. Gain insights into their lifestyle, traditional house-building techniques, and clothing production. Discover the indigenous methods of treating ailments and delve into their traditional medicinal practices. Indulge in a delightful lunch at a local riverside restaurant, relishing both the delectable cuisine and the picturesque surroundings. Afterward, our journey continues to Ta Van village, inhabited by the Giay people. Our guide will introduce you to selected families, where you can immerse yourself in their culture and enjoy a refreshing cup of green tea. Observe the distinctions between the Giay people's traditions and those of neighboring hill tribes, despite their close proximity. In the late afternoon, we'll ascend to the main road, where our car awaits to transfer us back to Sapa. The rest of the evening is yours to explore and unwind in this enchanting town. Embrace the captivating natural beauty of the surroundings as you spend the night in Sapa. This immersive trek promises an enlightening and unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals, their vibrant culture, and the awe-inspiring natural wonders that grace the region. Accommodation Options: Sapa Luxury Hotel: 3-star or similar Chau Long Sapa 2 Hotel: 4-star or similar Pao's Sapa Leisure Hotel: 5-star or similar

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, our trekking journey commences from Sapa towards the captivating Cat Cat Village. Nestled at the base of Fansipan Mountain, this vibrant village showcases the traditional H'mong homes in all their splendor. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you meet a H'mong family, gaining insights into their way of life and witnessing the intricate craftsmanship involved in traditional clothing, hemp dyeing, and weaving, skillfully executed by the women. Having explored Cat Cat Village, we'll continue our trek along the mesmerizing Muong Hoa Valley for approximately 3km. Traverse the picturesque rice terraces and charming dwellings until we reach Sin Chai village, a hidden gem that boasts unique wooden homes constructed with the local Pumu tree. From Sin Chai, transportation will be ready to whisk you back to Sapa. At 3:30 pm, our guide and car will be waiting at the Sapa Tourism Information Center to commence our return journey to Hanoi via the Noi Bai - Lao Cai Highway. Two brief stops will be made for restroom breaks, each lasting a maximum of 20 minutes. Anticipate arriving in Hanoi between 8:30 pm to 9:00 pm, marking the conclusion of our remarkable adventure through Sapa and the captivating hill-tribe villages of northern Vietnam. Upon reaching Hanoi, you'll check into your hotel for an overnight stay, preparing for the next exciting chapter of your journey. Accommodation Options: TK-123 Hanoi: 3-star or similar Lenid Hanoi Hotel: 4-star or similar Hotel du Parc Hanoi: 5-star or similar

After a delightful breakfast at your hotel, our private mini-van/bus will pick you up between 8:30 am to 9:00 am to embark on your journey to Halong City. The 3.5-hour drive offers picturesque views of the serene countryside and rice paddy life along the way. Upon arrival at the port, you'll step aboard an authentic Chinese Junk, your private boat for the enchanting cruise through the breathtaking Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Indulge in a delectable seafood lunch served onboard, featuring the freshest catch. During the cruise, we'll explore the mesmerizing "Amazing Cave" and relish a refreshing swim in the tranquil emerald waters of Halong Bay. We'll then venture into a serene area where we'll anchor for the night. As the sun sets over the bay, savor a delicious dinner and unwind in the tranquil ambiance. You're welcome to swim in the phosphorescent waters, retire to your cozy cabin, or even slumber under the twinkling stars on the top deck, embracing the enchantment of Halong. The night will be spent aboard the boat, immersed in the captivating surroundings of the bay. Accommodation Options: Glory Legend Cruises: 3-star or similar Pelican Cruises: 4-star or similar Paradise Sails Cruises: 5-star or similar

Witness a mesmerizing sunrise and embrace the invigorating ocean breeze as you wake up early in the morning. Indulge in a delightful breakfast served onboard while we leisurely sail amidst the countless majestic islands that adorn Halong Bay. Capture the awe-inspiring scenery with your camera, capturing moments that will last a lifetime. We'll also visit a floating fishing village, where you'll hear captivating tales of the fishermen's daily lives. Lunch will be served on the boat as we make our way back to the Halong City pier. From there, we'll return to Hanoi, reaching the city around 3:30 pm to 4:00 pm. Our dedicated driver will be awaiting your arrival to transfer you directly to the airport for your flight to Hoi An. Upon reaching Hoi An, our attentive staff will greet you and escort you to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy some leisure time to explore the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the picturesque streets, savor local delicacies, or indulge in some souvenir shopping. Overnight stay in the captivating Hoi An Ancient Town. Accommodation Options: Phu Thinh Resorts and Spa: 4-star or similar Lantana Riverside Hoi An Hotel: 4-star or similar KOI Resorts and Spa: 5-star or similar

Embark on a captivating full-day excursion to Hoi An, an enchanting and historically significant trading hub once known as "Faifo" to early Western merchants. This vibrant port welcomed ships from the Dutch, Portuguese, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, and other Far Eastern nations. Our journey begins with a visit to a centrally located temple adorned with partially gilded statues, showcasing influences from Chinese and Japanese architectural styles. We'll also explore a pagoda dedicated to sailors and fishermen, as well as a chapel with origins dating back to the 1700s. Next, we'll pause at the Sa Huynh Museum near the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Delve into the city's captivating past through its exhibits, which span the earliest periods of Hoi An's history. In the afternoon, we'll embark on a scenic boat trip along the Thu Bon River, guiding us to Kim Bong Village on Cam Kim Island. Witness the mastery of skilled woodworkers and shipbuilding families who have passed down their craft through generations. Immerse yourself in the traditional way of life, unique to this region of Vietnam. As the day draws to a close, we'll return to the world-renowned haven of "Cua Dai Beach." Indulge in leisure time, unwinding on the picturesque beach and reveling in the breathtaking surroundings. Overnight stay in Hoi An. Accommodation Options: Phu Thinh Resorts and Spa: 4-star or similar Lantana Riverside Hoi An Hotel: 4-star or similar KOI Resorts and Spa: 5-star or similar

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, embark on a fascinating journey to My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage site located 50 km southwest of Hoi An. Once a capital and religious center of the Cham people, My Son now houses captivating red brick towers and sanctuaries. Renowned as one of Southeast Asia's most remarkable archaeological sites, alongside Cambodia's Angkor, Myanmar's Bagan, Thailand's Ayutthaya, and Indonesia's Borobudur, these structures were erected between the 7th and 13th centuries. Delve into the lush valley, immersing yourself in the Cham civilization and their spiritual beliefs. Admire the intricate carvings and sculptures adorning the temples, while gaining insight into their profound significance. Following your visit, return to Hoi An town for lunch at your leisure around 1:00 pm. In the afternoon, savor some free time for shopping or exploring the town at your own pace. Hoi An is renowned for its exquisite lanterns, tailor-made clothing, and handcrafted souvenirs, inviting you to peruse the local shops and markets. Conclude the day with an overnight stay in Hoi An. Accommodation Options: Phu Thinh Resorts and Spa: 4-star or similar Lantana Riverside Hoi An Hotel: 4-star or similar KOI Resorts and Spa: 5-star or similar

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, embark on a scenic journey to Hue City. At 9:00 am, a dedicated driver from Legend Travel Group will pick you up and commence the road trip. En route, make two noteworthy stops: the Cham Museum and Ngu Hanh Son Mountain in Da Nang. Admission tickets for these attractions can be purchased individually. Continue the drive, passing through the picturesque Hai Van Pass, offering panoramic vistas of the Son Tra Peninsula. Take a brief respite at Lang Co Beach before reaching Hue City in the afternoon. Check in at your hotel and savor some leisure time to explore the imperial city. Spend the night in Hue. Accommodation Options: Cherish Hotel Hue: 3-star or similar White Lotus Hue Hotel: 4-star or similar La Vela Hue Hotel: 5-star or similar

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at your hotel. Embark on a picturesque boat journey along the enchanting Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest and most revered site in Hue. Marvel at the panoramic river views and immerse yourself in the pagoda's rich history and cultural significance as shared by your knowledgeable guide. Continue your exploration with visits to the iconic mausoleums of Emperor Khai Dinh and Tu Duc. Indulge in a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of traditional Vietnamese cuisine and experiencing the vibrant local dining scene. In the afternoon, delve into the wonders of the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the grandeur and sophistication of the Nguyen Dynasty. Uncover the captivating history and architectural marvels of the Purple Forbidden City, once exclusively reserved for emperors and their royal family. Visit Thuy Xuan incense-making village to witness the traditional craft and understand its cultural significance in Vietnam. Conclude your day at Dong Ba Market, the largest and liveliest market in Hue, where you can explore a plethora of souvenirs, handicrafts, and local specialties. After a fulfilling day of exploration, return to your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay in Hue. Get ready for more exciting adventures tomorrow! Accommodation Options: Cherish Hotel Hue: 3-star or similar White Lotus Hue Hotel: 4-star or similar La Vela Hue Hotel: 5-star or similar

After a satisfying breakfast at your hotel in Hue City, enjoy some leisure time to explore the city at your own pace. Later, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, our team will be there to greet you and escort you to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind or venture out into the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight stay at your hotel as you prepare for the next leg of your journey. Accommodation Options: Elios Hotel Saigon: 3-star or similar Golden Central Hotel Saigon: 4-star or similar Majestic Saigon Hotel: 5-star or similar

After a delightful breakfast at your hotel, embark on an enchanting journey through the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City. Discover the architectural marvel of Notre Dame Cathedral and the historical significance of the Central Post Office, both remnants of French colonial influence. Continue to the iconic Reunification Palace, a symbol of Vietnam's complex history. Indulge in a delectable lunch at a local restaurant before venturing to the renowned Cu Chi Tunnels. Gain firsthand knowledge of the ingenious underground network that played a pivotal role during the Vietnam War. Explore the tunnels, witness war relics, and savor simple local cuisine enjoyed by resourceful fighters. Conclude the tour by returning to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City for a comfortable overnight stay. The distance between Saigon and the Cu Chi Tunnels is approximately 75 km, with a travel time of about 1.5 hours. Accommodation Options: Elios Hotel Saigon: 3-star or similar Golden Central Hotel Saigon: 4-star or similar Majestic Saigon Hotel: 5-star or similar

After a delightful breakfast at your hotel, embark on a captivating journey to My Tho, the enchanting capital city of Tien Giang Province. Nestled along the majestic Mekong River, this idyllic destination is renowned for its verdant orchards and bountiful rice fields, providing sustenance to the entire nation. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you explore the islands famous for their traditional handicrafts, including delectable coconut candy and vibrant bee farms. Discover the ancient Vinh Trang Pagoda, an architectural gem adorned with mesmerizing sculptures, serene gardens, and a rich history. Sail along the scenic Mekong River, immersing yourself in its tranquil beauty. After an enriching tour of My Tho, return to Ho Chi Minh City, where you'll check in at your hotel for a restful overnight stay. Accommodation Options: Elios Hotel Saigon: 3-star or similar Golden Central Hotel Saigon: 4-star or similar Majestic Saigon Hotel: 5-star or similar

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, take the morning to relax or indulge in some shopping before your transfer to the airport for your flight to the pristine Phu Quoc Island. Upon arrival, our team will be there to greet you and whisk you away to your hotel for a seamless check-in. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring the island's wonders or unwinding in the comforts of your accommodation. Enjoy a blissful overnight stay in Phu Quoc City. Accommodation Options: La Paloma Resort: 3-star or similar Kingo Retreat Resort: 4-star or similar Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort: 5-star or similar

Begin the day with a scrumptious breakfast at the hotel, and then immerse yourself in the serenity of Phu Quoc Island. The entire day is yours to savor, with the enticing beaches beckoning you to take a refreshing dip, soak up the sun's warm rays, or leisurely stroll along the sandy shores. For the adventurous souls, a plethora of water sports and beach activities await. Alternatively, embrace the island's culture by exploring local markets or treating your taste buds to the exquisite flavors of fresh seafood cuisine. Embrace the freedom of this day to its fullest, and revel in the enchanting ambiance of Phu Quoc Island. Retire for a restful overnight stay on the island. Accommodation Options: La Paloma Resort: 3-star or similar Kingo Retreat Resort: 4-star or similar Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort: 5-star or similar

Indulge in a delightful breakfast at the hotel and relish the freedom of another day on enchanting Phu Quoc Island. Use this time as you please, whether it's exploring captivating attractions, shopping for souvenirs, or treating yourself to the island's renowned seafood delicacies. For those seeking adventure, a variety of day trips and excursions are available, including island hopping, snorkeling, and visits to local villages. Alternatively, simply bask in the sun's warm embrace on the pristine beaches. Embrace the island's allure to the fullest on your final day in Phu Quoc. Enjoy a tranquil overnight stay on the island. Accommodation Options: La Paloma Resort: 3-star or similar Kingo Retreat Resort: 4-star or similar Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort: 5-star or similar

After a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, it's time to bid farewell to the captivating shores of Phu Quoc Island. Check out from your hotel as you conclude your memorable beach vacation. The Legend Travel Group has arranged your airport transfer, ensuring a seamless journey from the hotel to the airport for your departure flight. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for choosing us as your travel companion, and we eagerly await the opportunity to serve you again on your next remarkable adventure. Alternatively, should you desire to extend your stay on the island, kindly inform us at least 24 hours in advance, and we will gladly arrange your airport transfer accordingly.