Highlights of Vietnam 12 Days

Embark on a captivating day exploring the life and legacy of a revolutionary leader who played a pivotal role in Vietnam's independence. Begin with a visit to the impressive Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of "Uncle Ho." Stroll to Ho Chi Minh's house on stilts to gain unique insights into the life of this iconic figure. Next, immerse yourself in Hanoian culture with a visit to the Temple of Literature, the country's first university for the sons of Mandarins. In the afternoon, indulge in a fascinating cyclo tour through the bustling Old Quarter. Navigate past vibrant shopfronts and enticing street food vendors. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure, or you may choose to participate in one of our optional experiences, such as a captivating water puppetry show, depicting the daily lives of the Vietnamese people through ancient art.

Leave the bustling streets of Hanoi behind as we embark on a tranquil journey to Halong Bay. Step aboard a traditional Vietnamese Junk boat, and let the mesmerizing limestone karsts and lush islets create an enchanting backdrop for our leisurely cruise. Savor a delectable buffet of authentic Vietnamese delicacies while sailing through the serene areas like Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, and Soi Sim Beach. After lunch, visit a cultured pearl fishery, where the skilled pearl maker will enlighten us about the fascinating process of culturing, harvesting, and sculpting these precious gemstones. If the weather permits, we'll make a stop at the stunning Ti Top Beach, where you can either climb to the top for panoramic bay views or unwind on the smooth white sand. Return to our Junk boat for a delightful cooking class with the chef, and witness a mesmerizing sunset from the top deck before enjoying a scrumptious dinner. Overnight on the boat, surrounded by the captivating beauty of this UNESCO-listed natural wonder.

Ease into your day with a graceful T'ai Chi session, a local custom. Enjoy a delicious breakfast before transferring to Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest caves in Halong Bay, adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Take in the last views of the bay's mesmerizing landscape from the sundeck as we cruise back to the Wharf. From there, we'll proceed to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Danang. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in Hoi An, where you'll have the evening free to explore at your leisure.

Embark on a captivating walking tour through the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An. Let the narrow lanes, vibrant marketplaces, and ancient temples transport you back to the Vietnam of bygone eras. Marvel at the old merchant houses and the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge before venturing to Thanh Dong Organic Village. Here, you'll immerse in the daily routines of local farmers, lending a helping hand and gaining insights into their way of life. Unwind with a soothing foot massage, setting the tone for a leisurely afternoon and evening at your own pace.

The morning grants you free time to further explore the delights of Hoi An or simply relax at your hotel. In the afternoon, you can choose from a variety of enriching activities. Craft your own vibrant lantern or learn the ways of a local fisherman (weather permitting). Create an artistic masterpiece to bring luck and happiness to your home, or embark on a fishing adventure, all at your discretion.

Today, we celebrate the rich flavors of Vietnamese cuisine as we sail to the Red Bridge Cooking School. Delight in learning the traditional methods of preparing and cooking Vietnamese dishes. Relish the delectable creations you've prepared for lunch before returning to Hoi An. In the afternoon, our route takes us over the scenic Hai Van Pass, leading to Red Beach, where history marked the first landing of American Marines during the Vietnam War. Our journey continues to Danang for a visit to the Cham Museum before reaching Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, where we'll spend the night.

Embark on a captivating cyclo ride through the vibrant streets of Hue, heading to the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, once the residence of Nguyen emperors. Next, we visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, a well-preserved religious treasure of Hue. Boarding a local dragon boat, we cruise along the Perfume River to the house of former Princess Ngoc Son. Here, we'll Engage with Locals and share a Be My Guest lunch with a family member, gaining insight into their life in this historic house. The afternoon is yours to savor at leisure or opt for one of our Optional Experiences.

A short flight brings you to Ho Chi Minh City, where you'll enjoy free time before lunch at Mai Sen restaurant. Next, embark on a walking tour along Dong Khoi Street to witness iconic landmarks such as the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville. Continue to Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, masterpieces designed by the renowned Gustave Eiffel. Discover the poignant history at the War Remnants Museum, gaining a local perspective on the war. Finally, visit the bustling Ben Thanh market, one of the city's oldest surviving structures, before arriving at your hotel.

Today, we venture to Cai Be town, nestled in the heart of the Mekong Delta. Our first stop is an exquisite 19th-century ancient house, a cherished family heritage passed down through generations. We'll then board a traditional sampan boat and meander through a labyrinth of small canals to reach the fascinating Cai Be floating market, where vendors display their goods on bamboo poles. A delightful home-hosted lunch featuring mouthwatering Mekong Delta specialties awaits. Afterward, we return to Ho Chi Minh City for a leisurely evening.

Embark on a journey through Vietnam's turbulent past as we visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive network of underground passages used by Viet Cong guerrillas during the French occupation. With a VC veteran as our guide, we'll explore the hidden compounds, gaining insight into the tunnels' history as living quarters, hospitals, and weapon caches. Returning to Ho Chi Minh City by private speedboat, the afternoon offers free time. Later, we'll Dive Into Culture with a visit to the former home of Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge, the American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, followed by a memorable Farewell Dinner.

As our captivating journey through Vietnam comes to a close, we bid farewell and transfer to the airport for your onward flight.