Flavors Of Vietnam In 12 Days

Embark on a culinary journey today as you immerse yourself in a Hanoi cooking class with the esteemed Master Chef Ai. The class begins at either 08:30 or 15:30, allowing you to choose a time that suits you best. Make your way to Chef Ai's House, where you will be greeted by the talented chef herself. With over 15 years of experience and a top-ranking finalist in Master Chef Vietnam 2014, Chef Ai is truly a culinary master. Together, venture to the vibrant neighborhood's wet market, conveniently located within walking distance from her house. Explore the bustling market, guided by Chef Ai, as she unveils the diverse array of ingredients used in traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Learn about their significance and purpose in local dishes while also having the opportunity to purchase fresh produce for the cooking class. The market visit offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of Hanoi residents and their approach to procuring quality ingredients. Equipped with your carefully selected ingredients, return to Chef Ai's warm and welcoming family home. Step into her kitchen, where the magic happens, and allow the chef to reveal the secrets behind the most beloved dishes of North Vietnam. With Chef Ai's expert guidance and her own treasured recipes, engage in the art of slicing, dicing, and cooking to create mouthwatering delicacies. Once your culinary creations are complete, take a seat and indulge in the flavorful feast you have prepared. This delightful meal marks the end of your immersive cooking experience, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine. Overnight in Hanoi.

Embark on a stylish exploration of Hanoi today as you hop on a vintage Vespa scooter. Your expert guide will greet you at your hotel and whisk you away on an exhilarating journey through the enchanting streets of the Old Quarter. Marvel at the iconic landmarks that grace this historic district, including the majestic Opera House and the narrow yet captivating Train Street. As you ride, soak up the stories and anecdotes shared by your knowledgeable guide, delving into the rich tapestry of Hanoi's past. Make your way towards the renowned Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you will witness the grandeur of the President's Palace, the Parliament House, and other notable government buildings. Let the fascinating tales of Hanoi's history unfold as you pass by Huu Hiep Lake and pay homage to the crash site of a US plane, a solemn reminder of the city's turbulent past during the 1972 bombing raids. Continuing your Vespa adventure, glide along the serene and picturesque West Lake, pausing at the striking Monument to John McCain. From there, venture to a hidden village nestled on an island in the Red River, immersing yourself in the daily rhythms of local life as you engage with a welcoming resident family. Next, you'll visit a nearby kumquat farm, where the vibrant small trees are cultivated as traditional New Year gifts, symbolizing luck, health, wealth, fertility, and peace. Take a moment to savor the renowned "egg coffee" at a charming local coffee shop, an iconic Hanoi specialty. Conclude your captivating Vespa tour by crossing the magnificent Long Bien Bridge, an architectural marvel that connects the Hoan Kiem and Long Bien districts, offering breathtaking views of the cityscape. Indulge in a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Afterward, you will be comfortably transported back to your hotel. In the evening, immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hanoi as our driver escorts you to Ly Club Restaurant, an esteemed establishment renowned for its exceptional dining experiences. Overnight in Hanoi.

In the morning, bid farewell to your hotel as you embark on an extraordinary journey to Halong Bay. Enveloped in awe-inspiring beauty, the scenic route winds through the captivating Red River Delta, where verdant rice paddies extend as far as the eye can behold. Upon arrival at the pier, step aboard the cruise vessel and be captivated by the mesmerizing vistas of limestone cliffs and enchanting karst formations. Indulge in a delectable seafood feast for lunch, savoring the tantalizing flavors that characterize this region. As the cruise sets sail, ascend to the sundeck to immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Halong Bay. Gaze in wonder at the majestic limestone rocks and intricate grottoes that dot the landscape, creating an ethereal ambiance. Anchoring at a secluded location, embrace the opportunity to get closer to the karst formations. Engage in exhilarating activities such as kayaking or swimming, enabling you to intimately explore the enchanting grottoes. As the evening descends, return to the comfort of the boat for an early dinner, followed by leisurely moments at your disposal. You may choose to participate in the engaging onboard activities or simply unwind and soak in the tranquility. Overnight on the cruise Note: In the event of adverse weather conditions that prohibit the departure or overnight stay on the sea, the Ha Long Bay tour may be canceled without prior notice. Rest assured, alternative tours or a refund will be arranged in accordance with the specific circumstances.

Awaken your senses to witness the breathtaking sunrise at the enchanting Halong Bay. Delight in a delectable breakfast served in the elegant dining room. Energize your mind and body with a revitalizing Tai Chi class on the sun deck, harmonizing with the serene surroundings. Embark on a fascinating excursion to explore a captivating limestone cave adorned with mesmerizing stalagmites and stalactites. Immerse yourself in the natural wonders before returning to the cruise to conclude your exploration. As the cruise sails back to the harbor, indulge in a delightful brunch, savoring the flavors as you relish the final moments of this remarkable journey. Upon disembarkation, a comfortable transfer will take you back to your accommodation in Hanoi. Take this opportunity to unwind and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of Halong Bay. Overnight in Hanoi

Enjoy a satisfying breakfast at the hotel and relish some leisurely moments until our driver arrives to transfer you to the airport for your onward flight to Hoi An. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After completing the check-in process, embrace the serenity of Hoi An with some free time at your leisure. Overnight in Hoi An.

Tonight, embark on an extraordinary foodie adventure in the enchanting town of Hoi An, where hidden gems and tantalizing flavors await. Your knowledgeable guide will greet you at the hotel and accompany you on a journey to discover the off-the-beaten-path treasures of this charming destination. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable culinary experience. First, venture to a local farming village located just 2.5 miles (4 km) from the town center. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of rural life as you gain insights into the daily routines of the local farmers. Discover their traditional practices and learn about the ingredients that form the foundation of Hoi An's delectable cuisine. Returning to Hoi An, prepare to indulge in a gastronomic paradise brimming with an array of exquisite local dishes. Delight in a symphony of flavors as you savor renowned delicacies, including the delicate white rose dumplings, the steamed rice cakes known as banh beo, the flavorful rice dumplings called banh nam, the tantalizing my quang rice noodles, the mouthwatering Hoi An pancakes, the succulent barbeque pork rolls, and the iconic bahn mi sandwich. These culinary treasures showcase the richness and diversity of Vietnamese cuisine. Conclude your epicurean journey with a cup of the finest Vietnamese coffee, renowned for its bold and aromatic qualities. Savor every sip as you reflect on the extraordinary flavors and experiences of the evening. You may choose to continue exploring the enchanting streets of Hoi An by night or return to your hotel, sated and content. Overnight in Hoi An.

Embark on a delightful culinary journey as you immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Hoi An. Your day begins with a warm welcome drink at the charming Hai Cafe, where your guide will meet you around 8:15 am. Prepare to awaken your senses and explore the bustling tapestry of Hoi An's colorful market, where a feast for the senses awaits. Engage with the friendly local vendors, witness the vibrant array of sights, sounds, and enticing aromas, and delve into the rich tapestry of ingredients that will soon grace your cooking lesson. Next, embark on a leisurely boat cruise along the serene Hoi An River, reveling in the picturesque scenery and capturing captivating moments with your camera. Witness the ebb and flow of local river life, gaining a deeper understanding of the region's cultural heritage. Arriving at the renowned Red Bridge Cooking School, discover the beauty of its herb garden, where fragrant herbs and spices flourish. Immerse yourself in the secrets of Hoi An and Vietnamese cuisine as the talented chefs unveil the artistry behind beloved local dishes. Through a captivating two-hour cooking class, observe their expert demonstrations before channeling your culinary prowess to recreate the very same dishes. As you immerse yourself in this culinary voyage, embrace the art of Vietnamese food carving, adorning your plates with elegant decorations. Once your creations have come to life, sit down to a sumptuous feast, savoring the fruits of your labor during a delectable lunch. After this enriching culinary experience, we will transfer you back to your hotel, where you can reflect on the flavors and techniques acquired throughout the day. Overnight in Hoi An.

Awaken to a delightful breakfast at your hotel, savoring the flavors that greet you in the morning. Take your time to enjoy the leisurely moments until our dedicated driver arrives to accompany you on your transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Ho Chi Minh City. As you embark on this seamless journey, bid farewell to the captivating allure of Hoi An and prepare to immerse yourself in the dynamic energy of Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival in the bustling metropolis, a transfer will be awaiting you to whisk you away to your hotel. Take a moment to settle in and complete the check-in process, allowing yourself to unwind before embarking on the next chapter of your adventure. Embrace the leisurely hours in this vibrant city, where ancient traditions coexist with modern dynamism, offering a myriad of possibilities to explore. Whether you choose to stroll through the bustling streets, discover the city's iconic landmarks, or simply indulge in the local culinary delights, the leisure time in Ho Chi Minh City allows you to craft your own immersive experience. As the day draws to a close, retire to your comfortable accommodation, where you can reflect on the captivating contrasts and exciting prospects that lie ahead. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Embark on a morning excursion to delve into the rich history of Ho Chi Minh City. Begin your journey at the iconic Independence Palace, an architectural marvel that stands as a symbol of the city's past and present. Unveil the secrets held within its walls and immerse yourself in the historical significance of this remarkable landmark. As you venture further, marvel at the French Colonial-era structures that grace the city's landscape, including the illustrious Notre Dame Cathedral and the captivating Central Post Office. Continue your exploration at the poignant War Remnants Museum, where the past is preserved through a compelling collection of artifacts, offering insights into the indelible imprint of the Indochina wars. Indulge in a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors that captivate your taste buds and offer a glimpse into the culinary tapestry of Vietnam. Allow the essence of the city to permeate your senses as you relish each moment. This evening, prepare for a truly unique dining experience at Noir: Dining in the Dark Saigon. Embark on a sensory journey as you awaken all five senses in an extraordinary setting. Upon arrival, savor a welcome drink while gaining an understanding of the restaurant's concept and mission. Then, step into the dining area, where complete darkness awaits, heightening your senses and immersing you in a world of taste, smell, touch, and sound. Delight in an exquisite, multi-course set menu crafted to tantalize your palate and ignite your imagination, as each dish is presented without the aid of sight, offering a truly immersive and unforgettable dining experience. Retreat to your hotel, carrying with you the memories of a day filled with historical discoveries and culinary delights. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Embark on a captivating journey into Vietnamese history as you delve into the renowned Cu Chi Tunnels, an extraordinary network of underground passageways utilized as a sanctuary for Vietnamese soldiers during the war. After a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Cu Chi, immerse yourself in the stories and secrets behind the construction and strategic significance of these tunnels. Gain insights into the resourcefulness and resilience of the people who sought refuge within these labyrinthine pathways, witnessing firsthand the living quarters, kitchens, bedrooms, and an array of martial facilities that coexisted in this subterranean world. Marvel at the ingenuity of hidden doors and perilous traps ingeniously designed within the maze-like tunnel system. Conclude your exploration with a taste of history, sipping on special tea and savoring cassava, a staple food of the guerilla fighters during the war. Bid farewell to Cu Chi as you journey back to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, carrying the indelible impressions of this remarkable site. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Savor a wholesome breakfast on the final day of your journey. Take the opportunity to complete the hotel check-out process, allowing you time to venture into the local markets and discover unique treasures to commemorate your trip. Select meaningful souvenirs for your loved ones or indulge in one last taste of Vietnamese cuisine. Later, as the time for departure approaches, make your way to the airport, carrying with you cherished memories and the spirit of Vietnam. Trip Ends.