Highlights of Vietnam 10 Days

An early morning awaits as we embark on a scenic four-hour journey to Ha Long Bay, a mesmerizing natural wonder where over 3,000 limestone peaks majestically rise from the emerald waters. Boarding a boat, we'll cruise through this awe-inspiring karst landscape and indulge in a delectable seafood lunch. Tonight, we'll stay in cozy twin-share cabins with private bathrooms on the boat, immersing ourselves in the enchanting ambiance of Ha Long Bay. Accommodation: Overnight Boat

This morning, our Ha Long Bay cruise continues, revealing more of the bay's breathtaking beauty before we head back to the port. Upon returning to Hanoi, we have some leisure time to explore the vibrant city. Why not immerse yourself in the local culture by joining the locals at street food stalls? Try the delightful bun cha, a flavorful dish of barbecued pork with rice noodles and fresh herbs. Later in the afternoon, we transfer to the train station for our overnight journey to Dong Hoi, a scenic city located 310 miles (500 kilometers) south of Hanoi. Accommodation: Overnight Train

As the sun rises, we arrive at Dong Hoi, where a short transfer takes us to our hotel for breakfast and a refresh. Our journey then leads us to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient karst mountains, vast cave systems, and mesmerizing underground rivers. Our first stop is Phong Nha Cave, accessed by boat. Afterward, we savor a delectable lunch before embarking on an exploration of Thien Duong Cave, lovingly known as Paradise Cave, a hidden gem discovered in 2005. In the afternoon, we return to our hotel in Dong Hoi, where we can relax and enjoy the rest of the day at our leisure. Accommodation: Sam Quang Binh Hotel (or similar)

Early risers have the option to visit the vibrant Dong Hoi Fish Market, where an animated exchange of baskets filled with the day's catch takes place between buyers and sellers. After breakfast, our journey continues to Hue, with a captivating stop at the Vinh Moc war tunnels along the way. These tunnels, less renowned than the Cu Chi tunnels in the south, served primarily as bomb shelters during the Vietnam War. Surprisingly, village life thrived underground, with schools, hospitals, and even movie screenings powered by a generator. Our next destination is the Hien Luong Bridge, spanning the Ben Hai River and marking the former border between North and South Vietnam from 1954 until reunification in 1975. In the mid-afternoon, we arrive in Hue, where you'll have some leisure time before an optional group dinner. Accommodation: Park View Hotel (or similar)

Hue, known as the cultural and historical heart of Vietnam, offers an array of fascinating sights. The Imperial Citadel stands out as the most prominent, boasting 6 miles (9.5 km) of fortified walls. Within its walls lie the palaces, halls of the Mandarins, and remnants of the Forbidden Purple City, accessible only to the emperor, eunuchs, and concubines. Though largely destroyed during the Vietnam War's Tet Offensive, the overgrown ruins exude an atmospheric charm, bearing witness to the country's wartime history. This morning, our itinerary includes visits to the Imperial Citadel and the Thien Mu Pagoda, which played a central role in anti-government protests during the early 1960s. Notably, the pagoda houses the Austin car that transported monk Thich Quang Duc to Saigon, where he self-immolated in protest against the president, an event documented globally. After lunch, we embark on a scenic journey to Hoi An via the breathtaking Hai Van Pass, a 12-mile (19 km) road that winds through majestic mountains, providing awe-inspiring coastal vistas. Accommodation: Golden Pearl Hoi An Hotel (or similar)

Today, we explore Hoi An on a captivating walking tour. Once a bustling European trading port in the mid-16th century, Hoi An has since transformed into a living museum, featuring charming wooden merchant's houses and pagoda-style temples that reflect Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, and European architectural influences. Strolling through its streets, we encounter a vibrant riverside market and shops showcasing exquisite silk garments. The afternoon is yours to enjoy freely. For those seeking adventure, consider a bike ride through the picturesque countryside, passing local markets, schools, and villages before reaching Cua Dai beach (3 miles/5 km). Accommodation: Golden Pearl Hoi An Hotel (or similar)

We journey to Da Nang and then take a flight to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. This vibrant city captivates with its bustling streets filled with scooters and a harmonious blend of ancient temples and modern developments. Despite the devastating impact of the Vietnam War, Ho Chi Minh City has emerged as a thriving free-market metropolis with a dynamic atmosphere. Our tour includes visits to the renowned Ben Thanh Market, the historic Reunification Palace, the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, and the evocative War Remnants Museum. The museum houses a compelling photographic collection documenting the Vietnam/American War, although some images may be graphic. Accommodation: Huong Sen Hotel (or similar)

Today, we venture out of the city to explore the lush countryside of the Mekong Delta on a captivating day tour. Known as the "rice bowl of Vietnam," this region boasts abundant fruit, sugarcane, and coconut plantations. We navigate the intricate network of tributaries by boat, stopping along the way to witness charming cottage industries. Embracing local traditions, we journey on a sampan, a traditional low-riding wooden boat still used as the primary mode of transport by the local people. After savoring the delightful local produce, we return to Ho Chi Minh City, where your leader will arrange an optional farewell group dinner. Accommodation: Huong Sen Hotel (or similar)

Our mesmerizing Vietnam exploration concludes today after breakfast. However, if you're eager to continue your adventure, consider extending your journey to Cambodia's awe-inspiring Angkor, a standout archaeological site in Southeast Asia. (End of tour)