Classic Vietnam with Siem Reap – Angkor Wat – 16Days

Avoid the morning traffic as you leave Hanoi and set off on a one-hour journey through the scenic countryside to Bat Trang, a village internationally famous for its exquisite ceramics. Accompanied by your local guide, explore the village and observe the skilled artisans as they craft their clay creations. Watch as they shape and carve pots, dishes, and vases, then glaze and fire them in a kiln, preparing them for sale.

Next, you’ll head to a traditional 'community house' to gain insight into an old way of life. These community houses once played a vital role in Vietnamese villages, serving as gathering places where villagers would meet to discuss important matters—a practice that has largely faded with modernization.

Afterward, visit a local family who are experts in the art of lacquerware. This ancient craft involves decorating wooden or bamboo items with layers of lacquer, requiring precision and patience to create a smooth, high-gloss finish.

Continue your journey with a visit to Do Temple, dedicated to the eight Ly emperors who ushered in an era of independence and prosperity for Vietnam. The temple, originally built in the 17th century, has undergone several restorations, with the most recent one in 1989 returning it to its former glory.

After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant in Hanoi, travel to Van Phuc silk village, where artisans have been weaving top-quality silk for generations. Your guide will introduce you to the villagers and provide insight into their craft and daily lives. Return to Hanoi for a dinner featuring traditional Vietnamese cuisine, along with an introduction to the Sapa region. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to the train station to board a sleeper train to Sapa via Lao Cai (a journey of about 8 hours). Please note that the train ride is unaccompanied, but your driver will meet you upon arrival in Lao Cai.

Settle into your comfortable train compartment and enjoy a restful night's sleep, preparing for the trekking adventure that awaits you the next day.

Arriving in Lao Cai at dawn, you’ll be transferred to Sapa via a shuttle bus. The hour-long journey takes you uphill, offering breathtaking views of the region’s impressive rice terraces and stunning landscapes along the way.

Once in Sapa, you can drop off your luggage at the tour office and freshen up with a shower, followed by a hearty buffet breakfast at the Chau Long Hotel.

Rejuvenated and ready to go, your morning trek begins in Sapa and leads you to the beautiful Ta Phin valley. After a 20-minute walk through the town, you’ll head down a dirt path to Ma Tra, a Black Hmong village known for its distinctive traditional attire and customs.

This moderate hike through the countryside provides more stunning views of vegetable gardens and rice terraces framed by lush green mountains. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit local families and learn about traditional fiber processing before continuing your journey to Ta Phin village, nestled in one of Vietnam’s most picturesque valleys.

Here, you’ll pause for a simple picnic lunch and explore the village, taking in the vibrant embroidered clothing and red headscarves worn by the Red Dao women, an ethnic group native to the area.

In the afternoon, you’ll return to Sapa in a private, air-conditioned vehicle to check in at your hotel and enjoy dinner. The evening is yours to explore the quaint town, wander through its sloping streets and lively market filled with colorful handicrafts, or, if the weather permits, hike up to Ham Rong peak for a stunning panoramic view of Sapa (entrance fee not included).

Meet your guide in the morning and embark on a second trek, this time heading from Sapa to the Golden Stream valley. Today’s hike promises more breathtaking views of terraced rice fields and gardens, with the majestic Mt. Fansipan towering 10,312 feet (3,143 meters) above sea level in the distance.

Cross a suspension bridge and continue your journey through the stunning Golden Stream valley, eventually reaching Lao Chai village, where you’ll pause for lunch.

Following the meal, your guide will lead you on a walk through Lao Chai, home to the Black Hmong community, before continuing to Ta Van village, where the Dzay tribe resides. This section of the hike is relatively easy, though the trail can become quite slippery in wet conditions, so be sure to wear sturdy footwear.

During your visit to these villages, you’ll have the chance to meet local families and gain insight into their daily lives and unique cultural practices. Afterward, you’ll head to the main road to meet your driver for the return trip to Sapa.

Once back, you can freshen up with a shower at the hotel before enjoying a free afternoon to explore the town at your leisure.

In the evening, you’ll depart Sapa for Lao Cai, where you’ll board the night train back to Hanoi.

After an early morning pickup from Hanoi station, start your day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast of ‘Pho.’ Following breakfast, you’ll depart from the bustling capital and embark on a comfortable four-hour drive to Halong Bay in an air-conditioned vehicle. Upon reaching Halong Bay around midday, you’ll be warmly welcomed by a tour representative and escorted to your traditional junk boat.

As you step aboard, enjoy a complimentary welcome drink and settle in for your cruise around the stunning Halong Bay. Get to know the friendly crew and fellow travelers as you indulge in a delightful seafood lunch, accompanied by tea and coffee. Afterward, head up to the top deck to soak up the sun and capture breathtaking photos of the bay’s natural beauty while your captain navigates to a secluded spot, ideal for swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

You’ll have the opportunity to try kayaking and explore some of the ancient limestone caves scattered throughout the bay. Paddle through tranquil lagoons, marveling at the dramatic limestone karsts that surround you—an experience only accessible by kayak! The modern kayaks are lightweight and easy to steer, and everyone will be provided with buoyancy vests for safety. The junk boat will stay close by, ready to assist if needed.

After your adventure, return to the boat for more relaxation on the deck, perhaps with a refreshing drink from the bar. In the evening, the onboard cook will prepare a sumptuous meal featuring fresh seafood and traditional Vietnamese dishes, as the crew anchors in the heart of the bay. Later, you’ll have the chance to try your hand at night fishing from the boat, adding a unique touch to your evening.

Start your morning with a relaxing tai chi session on the sundeck, guided by an instructor as you follow the graceful movements of this ancient martial art.

Afterward, take some time to unwind on the top deck, soaking up the sun and capturing photos of the bay's stunning scenery. A light breakfast of pastries, coffee, and fruit will be served on the boat. Next, you’ll visit the Cave of Surprises (Sung Sot Cave) on Bo Hon Island, a series of interconnected limestone islets. Upon arrival, climb the hundred stone steps to the cave’s entrance and explore its illuminated paths on a guided walking tour. As the largest grotto in Halong Bay, the cave is known for its impressive stalactites hanging from the high ceilings.

On your way back to the Halong wharf, savor a buffet brunch on the junk while enjoying more breathtaking views. Once you arrive at Tuan Chau Marina, a vehicle will be waiting to take you on a four-hour drive to Hanoi Airport.

We’ll arrive in time for our flight south to Danang, a coastal city famed for China Beach, which gained recognition as a GI R&R spot during the Vietnam War. Upon arrival, a coach will transfer us down the coast to one of Vietnam’s most enchanting destinations: the historic trading port of Hoi An. Our hotel is conveniently situated at the edge of the pedestrianized Old Town, providing the perfect base for exploring the area on your own.

Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant flavors of Vietnam with a walking and cooking tour in Hoi An. This charming town, which has largely escaped the ravages of past wars, offers a delightful exploration of its streets and architectural gems. After meeting your guide, you'll head straight to Ancient Town to begin your adventure through its captivating streets.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ancient Town is filled with historically and culturally significant buildings, with several streets closed to car traffic, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll. Along the way, you'll pass by numerous Chinese assembly halls, including the Cantonese Chinese Congregation, known for its striking main altar, and the Hainan Chinese Congregation, which honors 107 merchants from Hainan Island who were tragically mistaken for pirates and killed during Emperor Tu Duc’s reign. Don’t miss the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the 1590s by the town’s Japanese community to connect their neighborhood with the Chinese quarters across the stream.

Following your walking tour, you’ll visit a family-run restaurant for a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class. The chef will introduce you to the mouthwatering dishes you'll be preparing, and then it’s off to the local market to gather fresh ingredients for your meal. As you shop, you’ll learn how to select the best produce and discover some unique ingredients that might be new to you.

Back at the restaurant, you’ll start cooking under the guidance of your chef, crafting dishes like spring rolls and grilled tuna (sample menu provided below). Before the class ends, you'll receive recipes to take home, so you can impress your family and friends with your newfound culinary skills. Finally, sit down and savor the delicious meal you’ve created, capping off your flavorful experience.

Between the 4th and 13th centuries, the Champa Kingdom thrived along Vietnam's coast, with My Son serving as its spiritual and intellectual hub. After your private guide picks you up at your hotel, you’ll set off on a 30-mile (50-km) journey to this remarkable ancient temple complex, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

Nestled in a picturesque valley, the monuments of My Son are among the most significant remnants of the Champa Kingdom. As you explore the complex with your guide, you’ll gain insights into the history, architectural styles, and cultural importance of these temples. While only around 20 temples remain of the more than 70 that once filled this scenic valley, some are impressively preserved, while others lie in ruins, having been damaged during the Vietnam War.

As you walk through the site, be sure to capture photos of the temples framed by the stunning mountain backdrop, and listen as your guide discusses the impact of Indian culture and Hinduism on the Champa civilization, highlighting the Hindu deities commemorated at My Son.

After a captivating morning spent exploring the My Son temples, you’ll begin the return journey to your Hoi An hotel around noon.

After breakfast, embark on a journey south by minibus, heading to Hue on a four-hour drive. Along the way, you’ll pass by coastal rice fields before ascending the picturesque Hai Van Pass, a 14-mile (21-km) stretch of road that meanders through stunning mountains and runs alongside the shimmering South China Sea.

Upon arrival in Hue, check in to your hotel with views of the Perfume River. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace.

Start your private Hue tour with a pickup from your hotel in a private vehicle and prepare for a full day of exploration in Vietnam’s former capital. Your private guide will first take you on a 1 to 1.5-hour tour of the Hue Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the former Imperial Palace. Modeled after Beijing’s Forbidden City, the Hue Citadel features a royal palace, tombs, grand hallways, and intricately decorated temples, reflecting the city's imperial past.

As you walk through the complex, encased by high stone walls, your guide will share insights about Hue’s Nguyen Emperors who ruled the city until the early 20th century. Although the Imperial City suffered extensive damage from French and American bombings, as well as the 1968 Tet Offensive, efforts are underway to restore its former splendor.

After touring the Citadel and uncovering Hue’s royal heritage, enjoy a relaxing 45-minute cruise on the picturesque Perfume River. Your boat ride will include a stop at the seven-story Thien Mu Pagoda, Vietnam’s tallest pagoda, located on the river’s northern bank.

Following a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, continue with a visit to the Emperor’s residence, situated about six miles (10 km) from Hue amid lush pine forests. Explore two of the most notable Royal Tombs—Tu Duc Tomb and Khai Dinh Tomb—both final resting places of Nguyen Emperors. As you wander through these stunning tomb complexes, set amidst temples, courtyards, and pavilions, marvel at the elaborate above-ground tombs honoring the Nguyen Dynasty’s emperors.

This morning, we bid farewell to Vietnam and catch a short flight across the border to Siem Reap, Cambodia. After handling customs and immigration, we’ll meet our local guide and make the brief drive to our hotel, where you can check in and freshen up before we embark on our afternoon exploration.

Hop aboard a private remork (tuk-tuk) for a 15-minute ride to the South Gate, and take a stroll along the ancient city wall with your guide, pausing to photograph the impressive demons that line the causeway. Spend around an hour exploring the forgotten Prasat Chrung temple before heading to the 12th-century Bayon Temple, renowned for its 51 stone towers, each adorned with four serene faces of a smiling bodhisattva.

Next, your guide will lead you to the Terrace of the Elephants, the Royal Palace, and the Terrace of the Leper King, where you’ll have up to two hours to soak in the history and hear intriguing tales about the Khmer kings who once ruled this ancient city.

After your private tour, you’re free to enjoy the evening as you wish. Relax at the outdoor pool during happy hour if you’re in the mood for socializing, or retreat to your air-conditioned room for a quiet evening with dinner and drinks from the room service menu.

Rise early and leave your hotel about 30 minutes before sunrise, traveling by remork to the jungle-clad temple of Ta Prohm. This UNESCO-listed site is among the most renowned temples at Angkor, left largely as it was discovered in the 19th century.

After exploring Ta Prohm, return to your hotel for breakfast. Next, visit Angkor Wat, another UNESCO World Heritage site and the best-preserved temple within the Angkor Archaeological Park. Your private tour of this impressive 12th-century temple will last several hours, revealing its numerous surviving stone structures that once stood amidst wooden palaces, public buildings, and residences that have since vanished.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, drive to Banteay Srei, a 10th-century temple located 19 miles (32 km) from Siem Reap. This small UNESCO-listed temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, is celebrated for its intricate sandstone carvings and is often referred to as the ‘Citadel of Women’ for its exquisite artistry.

After a 1.5-hour private tour, you’ll have some time to explore on your own and enjoy lunch. As you return to Siem Reap, you might be treated to the sight of the sunset over the prongs of Pre Rup.

After breakfast, embark on a 30-minute remork ride to the outskirts of Siem Reap, where you’ll enjoy a 15-minute ox-cart journey through the rural countryside. Next, continue by air-conditioned vehicle to Tonle Sap, Cambodia's largest freshwater lake. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve feeds the Mekong River during the dry season and expands significantly during the monsoon rains.

Upon arrival at the riverbank, board a local boat for a 30-minute trip to Kompong Phluk, the largest floating village on the lake. Spend the remainder of the morning observing the intriguing daily life of the Cambodian villagers who live along the water, and gain insight into how their lives are influenced by the lake's seasonal changes.

After lunch at a local restaurant, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

This morning, our journey takes us south with a flight to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's most vibrant and dynamic metropolis. After checking into the hotel, join your guide for a private walking tour through the winding alleys of Chinatown.

Begin with a visit to Thien Hau Temple, an early 19th-century shrine dedicated to the goddess of sailors. Then, explore the lively markets of Chinatown, including Cholon Market and Binh Tay Market, where vendors offer everything from local delicacies to high-tech gadgets. Take a break at a local café and savor a cup of Vietnamese coffee while observing the bustling city life of Vietnam's largest city.

After your market adventure, enjoy a bowl of traditional Vietnamese pho (noodle soup) for lunch before embarking on a tour of Ho Chi Minh City's landmark buildings. Start with a visit to the War Remnants Museum to learn about the impact of the Vietnam War, where you’ll see exhibits featuring old military equipment, including an F5A fighter jet and a UH1-Huey helicopter.

Next, stroll through the Reunification Palace, formerly the Presidential Palace, the site of South Vietnam's surrender in 1975. Continue your tour with stops at Notre Dame Cathedral, the General Post Office, and the Saigon Opera House, all splendid examples of French colonial architecture.

After being picked up from your hotel, travel by air-conditioned vehicle to Cai Be, located roughly 100 miles (160 km) southwest of Ho Chi Minh City. Along the way, take a moment to capture photographs of the scenic landscapes and local farmers working in the rice paddies.

Upon reaching Cai Be, board a motorboat with your small group to explore the Cai Be Floating Market, a vibrant market established in the 19th century along the Tien River. Watch as locals trade fruits and other goods, displayed on boats and rafts, in this lively floating bazaar. Next, disembark for a brief visit to a coconut candy factory, where you can see the candy-making process and even purchase some of the treats.

Continue your adventure by strolling through the charming villages of the Mekong Delta with your guide. Visit a fruit orchard and plantation, and enjoy traditional southern Vietnamese music known as don ca tai tu, which blends elements of court and folk music.

Next, cruise along the Mekong Delta to Tan Phong Island, where you’ll join a half-day cooking class. Learn to prepare a variety of Vietnamese dishes from different regions and explore the rich cultural influences in Vietnamese cuisine. Try your hand at making dishes such as fried elephant-ear fish, grilled steak in a bamboo cylinder, grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves, and fish braised in a clay pot.

Relish your culinary creations with your fellow participants before taking a bicycle ride along the village paths. Pass by fruit orchards and a bonsai garden as you explore the area with your guide and interact with the local villagers. The day concludes with a boat ride back to Cai Be and transport returning you to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Unfortunately, your journey concludes today. Your guide will meet you at a scheduled time for the brief transfer to the International Airport, where you'll catch your onward flight.