Vietnam for Solo Travellers 12 Days

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel. 8:30 am: Tran Quoc Pagoda & West Lake Join the group tour as our bus and knowledgeable guide pick you up from your hotel in the old quarter around 8 AM. We'll head to Tran Quoc Pagoda, situated on an island in the picturesque West Lake (Tay Ho District). With a rich history spanning 1500 years, this pagoda is considered the oldest in Thang Long-Hanoi. It served as a Buddhist hub during the Ly and Tran dynasties and continues to attract Buddhists and visitors alike. 9:30 am: Ho Chi Minh Complex Next, we visit the renowned Ho Chi Minh Complex, which includes the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, and House on Stilts. Gain insight into the life and work of the beloved Uncle Ho, who resided here from 1954 to 1969. 11 am: Vietnam Museum of Ethnology Immerse yourself in the captivating exhibits of the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, one of Hanoi's most fascinating and extensive museums. Discover both the indoor and outdoor sections, with informative displays and engaging activities. Explore traditional ethnic minority houses, particularly those representing Northern and Central Highlands communities. 12:30 pm: Lunchtime Indulge in a delectable lunch at a local restaurant. 2 pm: Temple of Literature Visit the revered Temple of Literature, the country's first university and an ancient symbol of Hanoi's cultural and educational heritage. Uncover the profound history and traditions of Vietnam as you explore this magnificent site. 3 pm: Hoa Lo Prison Step back in time as we explore Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton." Originally constructed by the French in 1899, it housed political prisoners and later became a place of detainment for American pilots during the Vietnam War. Gain insights into the experiences of prisoners, including Senator John McCain, during their captivity. 3:30 – 4 pm: Return to your hotel by comfortable transport. Enjoy a restful overnight stay in Hanoi. Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, Lunch at a local restaurant. Please note: On Monday and Friday mornings, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum are closed and will be replaced with a visit to the Vietnamese Women's Museum. Modest clothing is required to enter the mausoleum and temples.

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at your hotel. Today is entirely yours to spend at leisure. Overnight in Hanoi.

For an authentic glimpse into the lively mornings of Hanoi's locals, wake up early and head to a nearby lake where you can witness hundreds of people passionately engaging in Tai Chi quan, jogging, martial arts, classical dance, and more. After breakfast at the hotel, join the group tour on a shuttle bus as we embark on a remarkable journey to Halong Bay, a UNESCO-designated Natural World Heritage site since 1994 and 2006. Once aboard our overnight boat, immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Halong Bay, with stops to visit enchanting caves and indulge in a refreshing swim. Relish the picturesque sunset over the serene sea, and savor a delightful dinner featuring fresh seafood. Prepare for an unforgettable overnight experience onboard. Note: The program may vary slightly depending on the final confirmed cruise.

Greet the morning with awe as the sunrise illuminates the bay's enchanting islets. Each islet possesses its unique name, reflecting its shape or evoking reminiscent associations. Explore the wonders of Halong Bay, where natural beauty knows no bounds. Disembark from the boat and return to Hanoi around noon by shuttle bus. Enjoy free time until you're picked up by car (no guide escort) to Hanoi train station for your journey to Danang. Overnight on the train in a 4-berth sharing cabin.

Upon arrival at Danang train station, you will be warmly greeted by a local driver who will transfer you to your hotel in Hoi An. (Check-in time is at 14:00). This afternoon, explore the enchanting Hoi An ancient town. As you walk along the tile-roofed Japanese Bridge, visit the serene Chinese Assembly Halls, admire the historic Trading Houses, and take in the peaceful ambiance of the pagodas. Stroll around the vibrant market by the Thu Bon River and experience the same captivating charm that has inspired countless artists. Enjoy leisure time for the rest of the day. Hoi An is renowned for its lanterns, soft silk, raw silk, and quick tailoring services, making it a perfect place for shopping or having your clothes tailored to your liking. Dinner is on your own arrangement. Overnight in Hoi An.

After breakfast, we will transfer to My Son to explore the hidden treasure of Cham culture that once thrived in Central Vietnam. My Son's awe-inspiring Cham Towers have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status, showcasing the richness of Vietnam's history and architecture. Afterward, return to Hoi An and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. Overnight in Hoi An.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, the entire day is yours to explore Hoi An at your own pace. Overnight in Hoi An.

Have breakfast at the hotel and relax until it's time for your transfer (without guide) to the airport for your morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to the hotel to drop off your luggage. At 1:00 PM, embark on an intriguing journey to visit Cho Lon (Big Market) and the Thien Hau Pagoda in China Town. Later, head to Bach Dang Harbor to begin an exciting waterbus ride. During the trip, witness the impressive landmarks of the city, such as Vinhomes Central Park urban area, the magnificent Landmark 81 tower, the Bitexco Financial Tower, and the serene District 2. The waterbus adventure offers a unique perspective of Saigon River, unveiling the charms of this once-called "Paris of Indochina" or the "Pearl of the Far East." At 6:00 PM, return to your hotel. Overnight in Saigon. Please Note: The Notre Dame Cathedral is currently under restoration, so guests can only visit the exterior. The drop-off time is subject to traffic and weather conditions, so the actual finish time may be later than expected.

Pick-up: 07:30 – 08:00 AM (The exact time depends on the customer's hotel/accommodation location). Escape the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City as you embark on an enchanting journey to My Tho, a charming town situated along the left side of the Mekong River. Upon arrival, explore the historical Vinh Trang Pagoda, dating back to the late 19th century. Next, board a traditional sampan boat and cruise along the serene river, passing by the Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise islands. Pause at Unicorn Island, where you can stroll along country lanes, immerse yourself in the orchards' beauty, and indulge in tropical fruits while enjoying the soulful melodies of folk songs performed by the locals. Visit a fruit plantation and savor the delightful flavors. Embark on a hand-rowed sampan journey through Thoi Son canal, experiencing the picturesque countryside. Visit a family-run business, explore a honey-bee farm, and relish the flavors of honey tea and coconut candy. Enjoy a delectable lunch at a local restaurant and take a relaxing break. In the afternoon, cycle through Tan Thach village, where you can interact with the friendly locals and immerse yourself in the authentic daily life of the Mekong Delta. For those who prefer a leisurely experience, unwind in a hammock and enjoy the refreshing breeze. Return to Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight in Saigon. Please note: The drop-off time is subject to traffic and weather conditions, so the actual finish time may be later than expected.

Embark on a captivating journey to Cu Chi, a historical site approximately one and a half hours away from Saigon by bus. Upon arrival, receive a brief introduction and watch an insightful video detailing the construction and survival techniques of the tunnel system during the challenging war era. Explore the intricate tunnel systems, including living areas, kitchens, bedrooms, storage spaces, weapons factories, field hospitals, and command centers, all ingeniously concealed underground. Discover the hidden trap doors and ingenious traps designed for security during the war. Indulge in special tea and cassava, which served as the guerillas' sustenance during the war. Take a break to relax or for those seeking adventure, try your hand at real shooting guns. Return to Saigon. Please note: The drop-off time is subject to traffic and weather conditions, so the actual finish time may be later than expected.

Bid farewell to Saigon as you depart for your onward journey.