Family Discover Vietnam 11 Days

Join our tour leader for an enriching morning tour of Hanoi, where we'll visit the One-Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. In the afternoon, enjoy the freedom to take an optional cooking class or wander through the elegant French Quarter. In the evening, witness the captivating water puppetry performance, showcasing tales of legendary heroes and everyday life, complete with stunning visuals and vibrant performances.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking beauty. Board a traditional junk boat and set sail towards Bai Tu Long Bay. Indulge in a delicious lunch on board and marvel at the majestic limestone islands covered in lush rainforest. Explore the bay further with a visit to the Vung Vieng fishing village, either by rowing boat or kayak. Discover hidden caves, grottoes, and the mesmerizing landscapes of the bay. Enjoy a delectable dinner on board, featuring fresh seafood and regional specialties. We anchor overnight in Bai Tu Long Bay, surrounded by the serene beauty of the surroundings. Please note that while the boat may not be exclusive to our group, we ensure a comfortable and memorable experience with our fellow travelers.

Witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the bay around 6:30 am, capturing the beauty of the moment. Enjoy a light breakfast before disembarking to explore the hidden Thien Canh Son caves, adorned with stunning limestone formations. Resume cruising through the bay while indulging in a delicious brunch on board. Return to Hon Gai harbor and hop back on our vehicle for the drive back to Hanoi. The afternoon is free, with day use rooms available for freshening up. Later, we head to the central train station to board the Reunification Express overnight sleeper train to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Rest comfortably in soft sleeper compartments, sharing with three other passengers. Bedding is provided, but please remember to grab snacks for the morning as breakfast won't be served on the train.

Upon our arrival in Hue, we delve into the rich history of this enchanting city. Our itinerary includes visits to the Royal Palace, where Terracotta Warriors stand guard, and the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, housing the city's oldest monastery. We also have the unique opportunity to learn kite making from a national champion kite flier, decorating our kites with symbolic motifs like dragons and birds. We then head to the Citadel grounds to test our flying skills. This monumental structure spans nearly 10 km and encompasses the Imperial City at its center, boasting impressive dimensions and four entrance gates.

Embarking on a journey to Trieu Son village along the Perfume River, we begin with a guided walk and boat ride. In Sinh village, we connect with a local family skilled in the art of wood painting, who share their expertise with us. Our leisurely bike ride leads us through picturesque countryside lanes to Thanh Tien village, famous for its exquisite paper flowers. Continuing our cycling adventure, we pass paddy fields and immerse ourselves in the tranquil Vietnamese countryside until we reach Tien Non village. From there, we board a cruise boat back to Hue, covering a distance of approximately 6 km. As part of the experience, we engage in a martial arts lesson at a dedicated school specializing in Kinh Van, Vietnam's equivalent of Kung Fu, which draws inspiration from the movements of a tiger, cobra, and bird. This ancient art was once employed by the ancestors of the school's owner, chosen to protect the Vietnamese king. Crossing the Truong Son Mountains and the renowned Hai Van Pass, made famous by Top Gear, our journey continues to the captivating coastal town of Hoi An, known for its historical significance and vibrant merchant heritage.

The morning grants you the freedom to immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meander through its historic core, marveling at the impeccably preserved architecture that once thrived as a bustling trading hub in Southeast Asia. For an enriching experience, we suggest an early morning visit to Hoi An's fish market, offering a picturesque backdrop for capturing memorable photos and engaging with the local community. Make sure to visit the renowned Japanese Bridge and delve into the historic ensemble of traditional wooden houses and Chinese temples. In the afternoon, you have the option to rent bicycles and explore the scenic countryside, enjoy a leisurely river cruise, relax at the beach, or seize the opportunity to visit Hoi An's acclaimed tailor shops, known for their craftsmanship and personalized clothing.

This morning's drive leads us past the majestic Marble Mountains, renowned for symbolizing the five elements of nature. Arriving in Danang, we catch a morning flight to vibrant Ho Chi Minh City. In the afternoon, we embark on a captivating journey through District 3, a maze of narrow streets teeming with local life. Walking past humble storefronts, bustling markets, and a tapestry of residences, churches, and schools, we witness the vibrant pulse of this interconnected community. A delightful stop at a local stall treats us to the rich flavors of traditional Vietnamese coffee, paired with a delectable Banh Mi—a fusion-filled baguette infused with aromatic ingredients. Our exploration culminates at the enigmatic "secret weapons" bunker—a discreet tube house concealing a hidden basement brimming with rifles, grenades, and ammunition. This bunker served as the base for the Viet Cong's pivotal "Team 5" during the TET Offensive of 1968, its location revealed only after the war's end. Delve into its historical significance as we peruse decommissioned weapons, photographs, news clippings, and memorabilia from that era.

After a satisfying breakfast, we embark on a poignant visit to the renowned Cu Chi tunnels. Originally constructed during the French colonial war, these tunnels gained infamy during the Vietnam War as an underground stronghold for thousands of Viet Cong soldiers. Venturing into the narrow and sometimes claustrophobic tunnels, we gain insight into the challenging conditions endured by both the Vietnamese and their American adversaries. In the afternoon, enjoy free time in the city, with the option to cool off at a refreshing water park, offering respite from the mid-day sun.

Today, we depart the city and venture into the enchanting Mekong Delta. Boarding a boat, we reach the starting point of our picturesque cycling journey. Pedaling along the serene Cai Thai village path, spanning approximately 10-12 km, we soak in the captivating views of the delta's winding tributaries. Shaded sections provide relief from the humidity, and the boat is readily available at various stops along the way. During our ride, we visit Mrs. Nani's home, where we learn the traditional method of making rice paper, and Mr. and Mrs. Chin's home, where we savor their famous "Banh Tieu" doughnuts. After a delectable onboard lunch, we transfer to a sampan craft, a small traditional boat used by villagers, and navigate to our nearby homestay. Nestled in a charming garden, our en-suite accommodations feature traditional décor. In the early evening, we partake in a Vietnamese cooking lesson, followed by a delightful home-cooked meal.

As we bid farewell to our homestay, we embark on a captivating morning cruise along the picturesque Mekong Delta. Drifting through the tranquil waters, we witness the vibrant scenes of small floating markets and immerse ourselves in the unique trading atmosphere of this intricate network of rivers, islands, and agricultural villages. The landscape unfolds before us, revealing lush paddy fields and serene mangrove swamps. After enjoying the essence of this remarkable region, we say goodbye to our boat crew and make our way back to Ho Chi Minh City. Our estimated arrival time in Ho Chi Minh City is around 3 pm. For those with evening flights, a day use room will be provided. If you're departing from Saigon's Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), we offer a complimentary airport transfer. The earliest recommended departure time is 5 pm. Consider extending your journey in Indochina with a three-night stay on the pristine white sand beaches of Phu Quoc Island. This Vietnamese island, nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, boasts a lush rainforest interior and idyllic shores. Easily accessible by a short flight from Hanoi, Siem Reap, or Ho Chi Minh City, it serves as the perfect retreat to unwind after an exhilarating adventure in Indochina.