The Essence of Vietnam In 17 Days

Indulge in a delectable breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a delightful excursion to Ba Vi, a charming countryside retreat nestled on the outskirts of Hanoi. Upon arrival at Ri Village, be greeted with a refreshing welcome drink and tantalizing snacks as you meet your first host, the esteemed Mr. Duoc—a veteran of the Vietnam War and a tea plantation owner. Immerse yourself in the captivating tales of Mr. Duoc's wartime experiences while savoring your beverage. Venture into his tea plantation and gain insight into the art of handpicking the finest tea leaves, essential for crafting Vietnam's most exquisite brews. Proceed to his intimate workshop, where the tea-making process unfolds predominantly through manual techniques. Next, a short journey leads you to Moc Village, where you will be warmly welcomed by your next host, the esteemed Mrs. Chin. Under her expert guidance, delve into the realm of local Vietnamese cuisine as she imparts her culinary wisdom during an interactive cooking session. Revel in the satisfaction of creating delectable dishes, which will later be savored for lunch amidst the enchanting setting of a tropical garden. Following a leisurely respite after the meal, join Mrs. Chin for a captivating village stroll. Immerse yourself in the authentic rural lifestyle as you visit local families and gain firsthand knowledge of the traditional methods employed in crafting tofu, crafting conical hats, and producing other local goods. To conclude this immersive experience, embark on a leisurely cycling excursion through picturesque paddy fields. Concluding your countryside sojourn, immerse your tired feet in a rejuvenating soak infused with aromatic herbs, following the ancient recipes of the Muong ethnic minority. Indulge in the ultimate relaxation, allowing the warmth of the water to revitalize both your feet and your spirit after a delightful cycling adventure. Later in the day, enjoy a comfortable transfer from Ba Vi back to your accommodation in Hanoi. Overnight in Hanoi.

Begin your day with an early morning indulgence in a delectable breakfast at your hotel, bidding farewell to the comfort of your accommodations as you complete the check-out formalities. Embark on a scenic journey to Sapa aboard a luxurious limousine bus, the approximate travel time spanning around 6 hours. Upon arrival in Sapa, you will be swiftly transferred to your accommodation, nestled amidst the picturesque charm of this mountainous region. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at your leisure, allowing you to immerse yourself in the allure of this captivating town nestled amidst majestic peaks. Overnight in Sapa.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel, anticipating the exciting adventure ahead. Around 9:30 am, rendezvous with your knowledgeable guide, embarking on a thrilling 12 km trekking expedition. Traverse the awe-inspiring landscapes of Sapa as you journey to Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai villages, home to the Hmong ethnic minority. Be mesmerized by the breathtaking vistas of expansive rice terraces harmoniously coexisting with majestic mountains. Pause for a well-deserved lunch in Lao Chai village, savoring the flavorsome culinary delights against the backdrop of a serene river. Resume your invigorating hike, leading you to the enchanting Ta Van village, inhabited by the Dzay people. Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily rhythms and traditional customs of the local community as you spend the night in a homestay, a truly authentic experience. Overnight at a homestay.

Replenish your energy for the final day of your trekking adventure with a scrumptious breakfast. Prepare yourself to embark on an exhilarating journey to Giang Ta Chai village, home to the Red Dao ethnic minority. Traverse a verdant bamboo forest that belongs to the pristine Hoang Lien National Park, immersing yourself in the natural wonders that abound. Along the way, encounter a mesmerizing waterfall and a charming rattan bridge, offering a perfect opportunity to pause, rest, and soak in the tranquil surroundings. Find a serene spot to savor a delightful lunch, further nourishing your body and spirit. After lunch, continue your exploration, venturing towards Su Pan, a quaint village nestled along the roadside. From here, commence your return journey to Sapa by car, cherishing the memories of your trekking expedition. Eventually, you will bid farewell to the breathtaking landscapes of Sapa, as you embark on a comfortable limousine bus ride back to the vibrant city of Hanoi. Overnight in Hanoi.

As the morning unfolds, bid farewell to your hotel and eagerly anticipate the arrival of the Cruise team. Embark on a captivating journey to Halong Bay, traversing the picturesque Red River Delta adorned with sprawling emerald-green rice paddies, stretching as far as the eye can behold. Upon reaching the pier, step aboard the exquisite cruise vessel, ready to be enthralled by the awe-inspiring spectacle of limestone formations and enchanting karst grottoes. Indulge in a sumptuous seafood feast, savoring the flavors of the ocean, while immersing yourself in the breathtaking views from the sun-drenched deck. The cruise will navigate to a hidden gem, where you will have the opportunity to engage in kayaking or swimming, allowing you to intimately explore the captivating karst grottoes up close. As the day draws to a close, return to the comfort of the boat for an early dinner, followed by leisurely moments to unwind. You can choose to partake in the various activities organized on board or simply relax, embracing the tranquil ambiance of the bay. Overnight on the cruise. Note: Please be aware that in the event of inclement weather conditions, which may restrict the cruise from setting sail or prohibit an overnight stay at sea, the Halong Bay tour may be subject to cancellation without prior notice. Rest assured, we will provide suitable alternatives or arrange for a refund based on the specific circumstances at hand.

Awake with anticipation as the day breaks, offering you the chance to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over this natural marvel. Delight in a delectable breakfast served in the inviting ambiance of the dining room. Prepare to invigorate both your mind and muscles with a revitalizing Tai Chi class on the sun deck. Embark on a captivating excursion to explore the enchanting limestone cave adorned with magnificent stalagmites and stalactites, a testament to the wonders of nature's artistry. After immersing yourself in the subterranean beauty, return to the boat to complete the check-out formalities. Indulge in a delightful brunch as the cruise leisurely sails back to the harbor, allowing you to relish the final moments of this unforgettable experience. Subsequently, you will be transferred to your accommodation in the serene city of Hanoi. Overnight in Hanoi.

Savor the remaining moments in Hanoi, cherishing the captivating charm of the city, before your private driver accompanies you to the airport for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival at Da Nang Airport, your driver will warmly welcome you and provide a seamless transfer to your accommodation in the enchanting town of Hoi An. Enjoy the leisurely time at your disposal, allowing you to explore and immerse yourself in the captivating ambiance of this remarkable destination. Overnight in Hoi An.

Embrace a day of leisure to immerse yourself in the wonders of Hoi An at your own rhythm. Delve into the charm of this captivating town by renting a bicycle from your hotel, allowing you to effortlessly explore its hidden gems. Pedal along the picturesque riverside or venture towards the inviting coastline. As you reach the beach, indulge in moments of relaxation at one of the quaint cafes, relishing a refreshing fruit drink after a delightful swim in the warm and tranquil sea. Alternatively, you have the option to embark on an optional tour. Overnight in Hoi An. (OPTIONAL TOUR: HOI AN ECO TOUR) Embark on a captivating journey with your knowledgeable English-speaking guide, commencing at 8:00 am from your hotel. Prepare for a scenic bicycle ride through the idyllic countryside and along the meandering rivers that embrace Hoi An. Enveloped in the friendliness of the locals, be greeted warmly as you traverse the neighborhood, immersing yourself in the captivating views that unfold before your eyes. Subsequently, embark on a boat excursion, traversing the waterways to engage with local fishermen. Experience the ancient art of traditional net fishing firsthand, connecting with the age-old customs of the region. Later, partake in a unique adventure as you embark on a paddle boat trip aboard a Vietnamese bamboo basket boat, meandering through a paradise adorned with towering coconut palms. Conclude the unforgettable experience with a delectable lunch, savoring the flavors of local cuisine. As the day draws to a close, pedal back to your hotel, filled with cherished memories.

Indulge in a delightful breakfast at your hotel and prepare for a memorable private car transfer from Hoi An to Hue. Traverse the breathtaking Hai Van Pass, renowned as one of the world's most stunning roads. Be captivated by the awe-inspiring vistas of majestic mountains and the shimmering sea. Arriving in Hue, settle into your hotel and relish the freedom to explore the surrounding area at your leisure. Overnight in Hue.

Immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of Hue, a city renowned for its historical significance as the former imperial capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty. Embark on an enriching exploration of its architectural marvels, many of which are designated UNESCO World Heritage sites. Your knowledgeable guide will meet you at your hotel between 8:00-8:30 am to commence your adventure. Embark on a serene boat trip along the Perfume River, leading you to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a venerable temple that holds a significant place in Hue's history. Continue your journey to the Imperial Citadel, a majestic complex that served as the political and administrative hub during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945). Within the citadel, delve into the Royal Antiques Museum, showcasing a remarkable collection of artifacts from the Nguyen dynasty. Conclude the morning with a visit to the bustling Dong Ba Market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local atmosphere. Savor a delectable Vietnamese lunch to replenish your energy. In the afternoon, venture to Khai Dinh's Tomb, a captivating fusion of traditional Vietnamese architecture with European influences, rendering it truly unique among Hue's tombs. Explore Minh Mang's Tomb, an architectural masterpiece embodying Confucian principles. Along the way, you will also visit villages renowned for crafting conical hats and producing exquisite incense sticks. Return to your hotel between 4:00-5:00 pm, enriched by the cultural splendors encountered throughout the day. Overnight in Hue.

Savor the remaining moments in Hue before your private chauffeur escorts you to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, your driver will be waiting to transfer you to your centrally located accommodation. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast before embarking on an unforgettable excursion to the Mekong Delta. Your knowledgeable guide will meet you in the hotel lobby around 7:15-7:30 am, and together, you will venture to the charming province of Ben Tre, nestled on the left bank of the mighty Mekong River. Upon arrival, embark on a captivating sampan cruise, meandering along the picturesque waterways that encircle Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise islands. Pause at Unicorn Island, where you can stroll through scenic country lanes and marvel at the flourishing orchards. Visit fruit plantations and delight in the luscious tropical fruits, all while being serenaded by enchanting folk songs performed by talented locals. Next, embark on a serene hand-rowed sampan journey through the idyllic Thoi Son canal, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the countryside. Explore family workshops and visit a charming honey-bee farm, where you can indulge in aromatic honey tea and delectable coconut candies. Replenish your energy with a traditional Vietnamese lunch before venturing on a bicycle ride through the picturesque Tan Thach village. Immerse yourself in the local way of life in the Mekong Delta as you interact with friendly villagers and discover their daily routines. Alternatively, if cycling isn't your preference, bask in the gentle breeze and relax in a comfortable hammock, taking in the tranquility of the surroundings. Concluding this part of the journey, you will be transferred to Can Tho. Overnight in Can Tho.

Indulge in a delightful breakfast and rendezvous with your guide. Embark on a leisurely boat excursion, navigating the enchanting tributaries of the Lower Mekong River, also known as the Bassac River. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of the surroundings as you witness the vibrant tapestry of life along the riverbanks. The highlight of the day is a visit to the renowned Cai Rang floating market, where you can witness the bustling atmosphere and vibrant trade that characterize this lively market. Afterward, our driver will escort you to the airport for your flight from Can Tho Airport to the breathtaking island of Phu Quoc. Overnight in Phu Quoc.

Enjoy a day of leisure to explore the captivating wonders of Phu Quoc at your own pace. Known as the "pearl island," Phu Quoc beckons with its pristine beaches, translucent turquoise waters, and a wealth of water sports activities, including snorkeling and scuba diving. Immerse yourself in the captivating marine world or simply unwind on the powdery white sands, relishing the serenity and beauty that surrounds you. Overnight in Phu Quoc.

Savor the blissful beach ambiance as you indulge in another day of pure relaxation on the captivating shores of Phu Quoc. Immerse yourself in the idyllic surroundings, basking in the warm sun and refreshing sea breezes. Overnight in Phu Quoc.

Delight in a wholesome breakfast on the final day of your remarkable journey through Vietnam. Complete the check-out procedures at your hotel, and take the opportunity to explore the local markets, where you can find unique souvenirs to commemorate your trip. Later, your private driver will transport you to the airport for your departure flight. End of the Trip.