Vietnam: Enriching Lives Journey in 13 Days

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, you will convene with the local coordinator, who will provide a comprehensive overview of the tour's itinerary and acquaint you with the meaningful volunteering activities you'll partake in. Following this informative meeting, a captivating journey awaits as you delve into the lesser-known facets of Hanoi, where local communities thrive alongside the city's bustling railway. Your knowledgeable guide will introduce you to the warm-hearted people who coexist harmoniously with Hanoi's primary rail artery. Along the way, you'll immerse yourself in the vibrant markets that play a vital role in sustaining this vibrant community. At 9:30 am, your guide will greet you at the hotel lobby and lead you to the captivating food market on Kham Thien Street. Here, you'll witness the art of shopping for essential ingredients that form the backbone of Vietnamese cuisine. Meandering through narrow alleys, you'll soon find yourself at Alley Le Duan, offering an enchanting view of one of the city's unique 'railway streets.' There, you'll observe locals savoring their coffee on the tracks, engaging in conversations with friends, or leisurely tending to their daily chores while gracefully making way for passing trains. If the timing aligns, you might even witness the train gracefully gliding through this narrow passage. Subsequently, continue your journey to Hanoi station, where a fascinating blend of colonial and socialist architecture awaits. Your walk will lead you through more charming local areas, and a delightful stop at Cua Dong Street for a refreshing morning treat precedes the car's arrival to take you to Gia Lam Station. Board the train at Gia Lam Station, and embark on an intriguing journey to Long Bien Station. Upon arrival, you'll have the opportunity to explore a bustling market nestled under the iconic Long Bien Bridge - a poignant French relic with a pivotal historical role in the Vietnam War due to its strategic significance. Despite enduring heavy bombardment during the war, certain original sections of the bridge remain as a testament to history. Overnight in Hanoi. Notes: Suggested departure time: 09:30 am Tour duration: 3.5 hours

Following a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, you'll embark on an engaging day with the local children at the serene forest park along the enchanting Red River bank. Join our dedicated team of volunteers in revitalizing and nurturing the green spaces within the children's playground. Activities will encompass planting trees, watering plants, clearing debris, and adding artistic touches, among other initiatives. Additionally, you'll actively participate in planning and creating a vibrant Green Space for the children, involving the planting of additional trees and the installation of educational signs and seating arrangements. This collaborative effort will foster a secure and joyful environment, ensuring the young ones can revel in a safe and delightful space. Overnight in Hanoi. Notes: Suggested departure time: 08:00 am Tour duration: 7 hours

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, brace yourself for a dynamic day ahead, engaging with the local children amidst the enchanting forest park along the banks of the Red River. Join our passionate team of volunteers in reviving and nurturing the verdant spaces within the children's playground. Collaboratively, we'll embark on various tasks, including tree planting, plant watering, waste collection, and artistic embellishments, all aimed at creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. Moreover, you'll actively participate in envisioning and planning a vibrant Green Space for the children, involving additional tree planting, educational signage, and comfortable seating arrangements. This collective endeavor will foster a safe and joyous environment, ensuring the children have a memorable and enjoyable space. Overnight in Hanoi. Notes: Suggested departure time: 08:00 am Tour duration: 7 hours

Escape the hustle and bustle of Hanoi and embark on a remarkable journey to immerse yourself in the authentic charm of the picturesque Muong Ethnic villages in Ba Vi. This extraordinary tour stands as a testament to our commitment to supporting the local community while providing our travelers with a genuine local experience. Meet your friendly guide at the hotel lobby and set off towards the enchanting landscapes of Ba Vi. Upon arrival, relish a refreshing soft drink in the quaint Moc village, preparing yourself for an invigorating cycling expedition amidst the lush rice paddies and serene villages. Along the way, we'll pause at the neighborhood market, affording you the unique opportunity to interact with the locals and witness the art of their livelihoods. Discover how they passionately sell their own products, showcasing the essence of their culture and way of life. After a fulfilling journey, cycle back to your starting point, where a warm welcome awaits at Mrs. Chin's home. Delight in an authentic cooking experience as she guides you in preparing traditional Hanoi-style bun cha and spring rolls using fresh ingredients sourced from a local market and her own bountiful garden. Relish the delicious meals you've prepared for a delightful lunchtime feast. With contented bellies and fond memories, bid farewell to the hospitable host family and proceed to the majestic 30-year-old tea plantation nestled in Ri Village. Here, amid serene surroundings, you'll discover the crucial role this plantation plays in supplying tea products to the entirety of Northern Vietnam. Engage in the tea harvest alongside the amiable owners and witness the intricate process of drying and crafting the finest quality tea. Embrace the serene ambiance at Mr. Duoc's residence, the esteemed owner of this expansive tea farm, before embarking on a scenic journey back to Hanoi city center. Overnight in Hanoi. Notes: Departure time: 08:00 am Duration: 8 hours

Embark on a captivating full-day journey to Tho Ha Village, Galaxy Grotto, and Nho Quan, unveiling the breathtaking beauty of the countryside and immersing yourself in enriching local experiences. Departing from Hanoi, a two-hour scenic drive will lead you to Tho Ha Village nestled within Nho Quan. Begin a leisurely 5-15km (3-10mi) bike ride, traversing picturesque landscapes and charming villages. In Dong Tam Hamlet, engage in thrilling agricultural activities like crab catching, fishing, and tending to vegetables. Later, return to the hamlet to savor a delightful cooking class and relish lunch with a hospitable local family, savoring mouthwatering sweet potato cakes and grilled fish. Afterward, embark on a serene rowboat journey from Nha Le Pier, unveiling the mesmerizing beauty of Galaxy Grotto, a 900m (2,953ft)-deep cave adorned with exquisite stalactites resembling a celestial galaxy. Observe the fascinating bat colony towards the cave's end. Finally, we'll transfer you to your hotel in the picturesque Ninh Binh province. Overnight in Ninh Binh. Notes: Suggested departure time: 08:00 am Tour duration: 7 hours (including transfer)

After a delectable breakfast at the hotel, we'll journey to the iconic Halong Bay, a scenic four-hour drive with a 20-minute stop en route. The mesmerizing landscape of Halong Bay, adorned with thousands of limestone islands rising from the emerald sea, creates an unforgettable image of Vietnam. An overnight boat excursion offers the finest way to experience this Vietnamese gem. Arriving at the jetty in Halong City around noon, complete check-in formalities, and savor a welcoming lunch while cruising amidst the captivating bay. In the afternoon, indulge in various visits and activities such as swimming and kayaking around the limestone formations (depending on the boat's itinerary) or simply relax onboard, embracing the awe-inspiring surroundings. As the day draws to a close, the ship anchors amidst the enchanting karst formations. Later, as part of "Action for a Green Ha Long," participate in collecting waste from two isolated beaches on the bay's fringes. Dinner will be served onboard, concluding an eventful day in Halong Bay. Overnight in Halong Bay.

As the morning sun graces the horizon of Halong Bay, a sumptuous breakfast awaits on board (some boats offer brunch as well) while the vessel gently cruises back to the port. After disembarking, we'll transfer you to the airport for your flight to Da Nang. Upon your arrival at Da Nang airport, our team will warmly welcome you and accompany you to your hotel in Da Nang. The rest of the day is yours to savor at your leisure. Overnight in Da Nang.

In the morning, we'll journey to Da Nang City, where you'll have the opportunity to join forces with the admirable "Zero Waste Community" team. This inspiring initiative, organized by GreenViet NGO (Vietnam) and GSI Institute (Germany) under the "Conservation Fund" framework, embodies their mission of fostering environmental preservation and promoting eco-conscious living. Join the dedicated activists in a gratifying clean-up of tourist areas and engage in fruitful discussions about making our planet a better place. Subsequently, head to their workshop, where you'll gain insight into crafting local crafts and arts using recycled materials. Witness the beauty and functionality of transforming waste materials into exquisite creations, and unleash your own creativity in crafting something meaningful. Embrace the day in the company of like-minded individuals, exchanging experiences on sustainability and fostering a collective vision for a greener future. Afterwards, return to your Da Nang hotel to check in and relax. In the late afternoon, we suggest visiting My Khe Beach, renowned for its picturesque beauty in Vietnam. Revel in leisurely strolls on the soft sand, take a refreshing swim in the gentle sea, or partake in other beach activities available for your enjoyment. Overnight in Da Nang. Notes: Suggested departure time: 08:30 am Tour duration: 6 hours

Embark on a morning drive to Da Nang City, where you'll have the privilege of joining the admirable "Zero Waste Community" team. This empowering initiative, organized by GreenViet NGO (Vietnam) and GSI Institute (Germany) under the "Conservation Fund" framework, is committed to championing environmental protection and fostering an eco-friendly lifestyle. Unite with these passionate activists in a gratifying cleanup effort, revitalizing tourist areas, and exchanging ideas on how to make our planet a better place. Subsequently, delve into their inspiring workshop, where you'll discover the art of crafting local crafts and arts using recycled materials. Witness the transformation of waste into practical and beautiful creations and unleash your creativity to craft your own meaningful piece. Revel in the camaraderie of like-minded individuals, sharing sustainable experiences, and collectively nurturing a greener future. Return to your Da Nang hotel to check-in and unwind. Later in the afternoon, we recommend a visit to My Khe Beach, celebrated as one of Vietnam's most picturesque beaches. Savor leisurely walks on the soft sand, indulge in refreshing swims in the gentle sea, or partake in the various beach activities on offer. Overnight in Da Nang. Notes: Suggested departure time: 08:30 am Tour duration: 6 hours

After a fulfilling breakfast at the hotel, enjoy some leisure time until we transfer you to the neighboring town of Hoi An. Upon arrival, your knowledgeable guide will accompany you on a delightful walk around the enchanting town of Hoi An. This World Heritage ancient town boasts well-preserved architecture, pedestrian-only streets, and a distinctive local cuisine, offering a glimpse into its illustrious past. Stroll through Hoi An's narrow lanes, guided by your expert companion, and be captivated by its atmospheric sights. Marvel at the old merchant houses, blending Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architectural influences, the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, an iconic link between the Japanese and Chinese quarters, the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation adorned with intricate woodcarvings, and the vibrant market brimming with local delicacies, silk, and clothing. Conclude your tour with an enchanting hour-long boat trip on the Thu Bon River, offering an intimate view of fishing boats and countryside villages before returning to your hotel. Overnight in Hoi An. Notes: Suggested departure time: 08:00 am Tour duration: 4 hours

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, you'll be greeted and transported to Vong Nhi village, where your cycling adventure commences. Embark on a scenic 6-kilometer ride through the village, traversing serene countryside landscapes. Marvel at the verdant water coconut forest, picturesque prawn and red snapper farms, and the rustic charm of the rice fields. Arriving at Thanh Dong organic farm, a 10,000 square meter haven supporting ten local families, take a leisurely stroll through the bountiful vegetable garden while hearing inspiring tales of the farmers' transformative journey since adopting organic cultivation methods. Subsequently, actively engage with the farmers in various gardening activities, from preparing and applying organic manure to the soil, to sowing herb seeds, watering, or harvesting vegetables. Departing the farm, you'll embark on a delightful basket boat ride along the Do River, leading you to The Field Restaurant. Along the way, delight in the picturesque scenes of local villagers immersed in their fishing life. Indulge in a brief cooking class, followed by a delightful Vietnamese family-style lunch. In the afternoon, we'll introduce you to a locally sustainable method of recycling kitchen waste. Embrace the vermicomposting process, utilizing worms to convert organic matter into nutrient-rich compost. This eco-friendly compost serves as an exceptional plant growth enhancer, strengthening plants against pests and environmental stressors. Our emphasis on introducing vermicomposting as a sustainable approach in home and community waste management proves particularly inspiring due to its low resource requirements and remarkable results. Gain a comprehensive understanding of vermicomposting's significance in sustainable agriculture and learn how to establish a vermicompost system in your home or community garden. Discover the vital role of our host's project, empowering local communities to embrace this practice for their livelihood and environmental welfare. Overnight in Hoi An.

Indulge in a wholesome breakfast on the last day of your remarkable journey. Conclude your stay by checking out from the hotel, and take the opportunity to explore the vibrant local markets, acquiring cherished souvenirs for your loved ones. Subsequently, make your way to the departure point and board your flight back home. The trip comes to a close.