Simply Vietnam 10 Days

Today, we delve into the rich history of Ho Chi Minh City, where poignant reminders of the Vietnam War can be seen amidst the city's buildings and artifacts. Explore the old US Embassy, the emotive War Crimes Museum, and the iconic Reunification Palace, all of which hold significant stories of the past. For those seeking further insights, there are two optional excursions. The first takes you to the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels, a remarkable underground command base used by 10,000 Viet Cong troops during the Vietnam War. Learn about the harsh conditions endured by soldiers and civilians as they sought refuge in the narrow and low tunnels, hidden from relentless bombings. Alternatively, embark on a full-day adventure to the vibrant Mekong Delta, where local life thrives along narrow waterways. Navigate the delta on traditional sampans, and discover fascinating cottage industries still practiced today. Choose the option that intrigues you most, and immerse yourself in Vietnam's captivating history and culture.

In the morning, we board a short flight to Danang, located in Central Vietnam. From Danang, we continue our journey by charter bus to the captivating Hoi An. En route, we pass the renowned China Beach, once a popular spot for American GIs during the Vietnam War. Upon arrival at the hotel, early check-in may not be available. However, we'll store our belongings and enjoy breakfast (not included) before embarking on a delightful walking tour of Hoi An. This ancient town was a bustling international trading post in the 17th and 18th centuries, and its medieval charm is still preserved today. Marvel at the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, an exquisite pagoda dedicated to Buddha's worship, and the Japanese covered bridge, a 400-year-old architectural gem. Our exploration concludes at the vibrant riverside market, offering a perfect setting for further discovery. The rest of the day is yours to savor at your own pace.

Today is yours to immerse yourself in the captivating ambiance of Hoi An's World Heritage Site. Start your day with a visit to the vibrant fish market, offering a spectacle of colors and lively interactions with locals, perfect for capturing memorable photos. Don't miss the iconic Japanese Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An, with a fascinating legend of taming a restless monster. Wander through the streets lined with traditional wooden houses and ornate Chinese temples. Hoi An is renowned for its tailor shops, providing quick and affordable custom-made clothing, making it hard for visitors to resist getting a unique item before leaving. Consider renting a bicycle to explore the peaceful countryside or relax at the nearby beach. For those interested in culinary delights, cooking classes are available in this popular traveler's haven.

We set off this morning along the enchanting coastal road, heading to the historically rich city of Hue. Our route takes us through the majestic Truong Son Mountains, and we traverse the picturesque Hai Van (Sea Cloud) Pass, once marking the boundary between Vietnam and the Champa Kingdom. We are expected to reach the old imperial city of Hue by lunchtime, granting you ample time for personal exploration. Hue's allure lies in its division by the Perfume River, separating the 19th-century citadel from the charming suburbs that extend along the eastern shore. As the former capital of Vietnam, Hue has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Even today, its leisurely ambiance invites exploration, making it one of the most captivating cities in the country.

Today offers ample opportunities to delve into the rich heritage of Hue. One option is to visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, the city's oldest monastery. Its 21-meter-high tower has become an emblem of Hue and houses remarkable Buddhist statues, including an impressive 2000kg cast bell, said to be audible from over 10km away. Another choice is to explore the Old Citadel, an imposing structure on the Perfume River's left bank. Built by the Nguyen dynasty, it was modeled after Beijing's Forbidden City and holds historical significance as a witness to the Vietnam War's destructive Tet Offensive. Venturing into the Perfume Valley, you can discover the Royal Tombs of the Nguyen kings, unique mausoleums amidst lush forests, perfect for a bicycle excursion. In the late afternoon, we'll make our way to the railway station to catch the overnight train bound for Hanoi, Vietnam's vibrant and historically significant capital.

In the early hours, we arrive in Hanoi and continue our journey to the captivating Halong Bay on Vietnam's northeast coast. This awe-inspiring natural wonder is celebrated as one of Southeast Asia's most remarkable attractions and rightfully listed as one of the world's eight natural wonders. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, Halong Bay boasts a surreal landscape of over 1600 limestone islands that appear to emerge like scales of a submerged dragon from the jade green waters below. Local legends narrate the mythical creation of this breathtaking scenery, attributed to a dragon's mighty tail carving the landscape as it descended into the sparkling bay. Upon arrival, we embark on a traditional junk boat, gracefully navigating through a picturesque assembly of boats, junks, and wooden sampans adorning the gentle waters of the bay. Our journey unfolds amidst this enchanting seascape, allowing time for swimming and exploration of limestone caves that adorn the landscape. As the day draws to a close, we disembark from our boat and transfer to our hotel in the Bay, where we can relax and savor the wonders we witnessed throughout the day.

Upon our return to Hanoi, the tour leader will lead an optional short orientation tour of the city, guiding us through the charming streets of the Old Quarter. These narrow streets bear names associated with the diverse crafts and specialties of the city's skilled artisans, such as Paper Street, Silk Street, and Basket Street. This tradition dates back to the 13th century when the city's original 36 guilds settled here, each adopting a street to distinguish themselves from their neighbors. The labyrinth of alleys and lanes creates an enthralling setting to explore on foot, and the area is renowned for its intriguing 'tube' houses. These houses boast narrow frontages, extending into long rooms that stretch deep from the streets. Here, food vendors line the pavements, enticing passers-by with a variety of noodles, snacks, and delectable stir-fried delights. Later today, we may have the opportunity to witness an extraordinary display of traditional water puppetry, an artform deeply woven into the cultural fabric of the Red River Delta's people. Set on a submerged stage, these captivating stories narrate the tales of legendary heroes and everyday life, featuring dragons, unicorns, ducks, frogs, fireworks, and naval battles, all coming to life through the mastery of puppetry. A truly mesmerizing experience!

Today is a leisurely day in Hanoi, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city's captivating ambiance. With options aplenty, you can choose to visit the French Quarter, a charming area with tree-lined boulevards and elegant low-built houses that exude the allure of a French provincial town. Some of the city's most intriguing sights include the One-Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, and the Presidential Palace. Take a moment to explore Ho Chi Minh's simple yet remarkable stilt-house, specially constructed for him on the palace grounds, where he chose to reside. For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Museum and the austere mausoleum, often compared to Lenin's in Moscow, offers a glimpse into the life of this esteemed leader. Alternatively, wandering the captivating streets of the Old Quarter provides a sensory feast, where each lane reveals unique delights. The French Quarter presents an excellent opportunity for a bicycle exploration, boasting grand colonial architecture that provides a striking contrast to the lively pace of the Old Quarter. Those curious about Vietnam's colonial wars may find the Museum of Vietnamese Revolution and the Military History Museum worth a visit.

After breakfast at our hotel, the tour comes to an end in Hanoi. There are no planned activities for today, allowing you to depart at your convenience. If your departure flight is later in the day, you can avail luggage storage facilities at the hotel. For a complimentary airport transfer, please schedule your departure from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), approximately 45 minutes from the hotel. If time permits, take one last stroll through the captivating Old Quarter or savor the serenity of Hoan Kiem Lake's shore.