Vietnam Real Food Adventure 12 Days

Commence the day with a classic breakfast featuring pho – a dish originating from Hanoi – crafted to invigorate your senses and set the tone for the day. Accompany your guide on a city tour, savoring some of Hanoi's celebrated street food specialties before venturing to a concealed tea house. Immerse yourself in Vietnamese tea traditions, guided by a true master. Following this, explore a local Xo community where a skilled winemaker will guide you through a tasting of distinctive Vietnamese varieties. Stroll through narrow pathways adorned with French colonial architecture, passing artist collectives, pottery workshops, and clandestine fashion ateliers – now immersed in the genuine heart of Hanoi. Upon arrival, descend into the basement of a century-old French villa and enter the realm of Xo Liquid – a rice wine-based alcohol. The expert winemaker will share his story and elucidate the process of crafting this traditional product, transmitting his passion for the craft. After this unique wine experience, visit a traditional Vietnamese residence, where a local family welcomes you to indulge in a meal showcasing fresh ingredients and regional vegetarian cuisine.

Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a journey by private vehicle to the awe-inspiring World Heritage-listed destination of Halong Bay (approximately 4 hours). Board a vessel and cruise on the mesmerizing emerald-green waters, navigating through limestone karsts while immersing yourself in the timeless tranquility of the surroundings. Halong Bay stands as a secluded haven adorned with 2000 limestone islands emerging from the turquoise waters of Bac Bo Gulf. Encompassing an area of approximately 1500 square kilometers, it features pristine beaches and caves sculpted over millennia by the forces of waves and wind. Explore one of the lesser-known caves before returning to your vessel in the late afternoon, where an onboard chef will delight you with a delectable feast.

Accommodation: Overnight boat

Catch a bus for the return journey to Hanoi (around 3.5 hours) and later hop on an overnight train heading to Hue (approximately 12 hours). While the accommodations on the train are modest, the overnight experience proves to be enriching. It serves as an efficient means of covering long distances and offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the essence of the country. Many trains include a dining carriage that provides straightforward meals, but some travelers prefer to prepare by securing fresh bread, cheese, and fruit before departure.

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Hue, recognized as Vietnam's former royal capital, boasts a culinary scene often regarded as the finest in the country. Influenced by its imperial legacy, characterized by small dishes and an emphasis on aesthetic presentation, as well as its profound Buddhist heritage, reflected in the abundance of vegetarian restaurants, the cuisine in this region is truly unique. Upon arrival (around 8:30 am), indulge in a classic breakfast featuring bun bo Hue – a beloved Vietnamese soup consisting of rice vermicelli (bun) and beef (bo). After settling your luggage at the hotel, embark on a motorbike tour exploring the city's imperial landmarks! Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, an active Buddhist monastery dating back to 1601, where you'll encounter a car that once belonged to a monk involved in the 1963 protests. A dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River (approximately 40 minutes) will be followed by a special lunch stop for a vegetarian Buddhist meal at a pagoda. The day concludes with a visit to the royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc. The evening is yours for a personal culinary exploration. Consult your guide for recommendations on the best places to savor imperial street delicacies like banh hue (rice flour cakes filled with shrimp, pork, and spices).

Accommodation: Hotel

Commence your day with a visit to the Imperial Citadel, encompassing the Forbidden Purple City. Despite being heavily damaged during the Tet Offensive in the Vietnam War, the overgrown ruins exude a captivating atmosphere. The bomb craters serve as poignant reminders of the wartime devastation inflicted upon the country. Travel south by bus, traversing coastal rice paddies and navigating the mountainous Hai Van Pass. Along the way, make a stop to witness the traditional preparation of My Quang – a Vietnamese noodle dish originating from the Quang Nam Province. A local expert will guide you through the process before indulging in a tasting session with your group. Continue the journey to Hoi An (approximately 4 hours, including a lunch stop). Renowned for its immaculate restoration, this city preserves the essence of centuries gone by, revealing its charm with each exploration. Seize the opportunity to shop and consider having some garments tailor-made. The offerings include a diverse range of original paintings, handcrafted woodwork, ceramics, embroidery, lanterns, and fabrics. Upon arrival, your guide will lead an orientation walk around the Ancient Town. The evening is yours to explore, and your leader can recommend exceptional local Vietnamese dining experiences.

Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on your day with a guided walking tour of Hoi An, exploring iconic sights such as the Japanese covered bridge and the intricate network of alleyways within the Old Town. Later, venture to a quaint local market where you can spot various items to purchase – an ideal opportunity to acquire Vietnamese culinary utensils. In the afternoon, visit the charming village of Tra Que, situated on the outskirts of Hoi An. Renowned for its vegetable and aromatic herb gardens, this village has earned a reputation as a culinary haven. Stroll through the lush farmland, interact with the friendly local residents, and then immerse yourself in a hands-on cooking class led by a skilled village chef specializing in Pho Hoi cuisine.

Accommodation: Hotel

Enjoy a day of leisure in Hoi An, giving you the flexibility to explore the town at your own pace. Seek recommendations from your leader for the best local food and activities to enhance your experience. For those who rise early, consider visiting the lively Hoi An fish markets, particularly vibrant in the morning. If the weather permits, take a bicycle, available for rent in town, to reach the local beach for a refreshing swim. In the evening, savor seafood along the waterfront or embark on a boat journey for a barbecue feast on a nearby island.

Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a brief flight to Ho Chi Minh City, lasting approximately 1 hour. Begin your exploration with a guided tour, providing insight into the city's dynamic blend of old and new, as well as its harmonious convergence of East and West. Ho Chi Minh City reflects a pronounced French influence, evident in its excellent coffee and delectable baguettes. Visit significant landmarks such as the War Remnants Museum, General Post Office, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, concluding your tour at the vibrant Ben Thanh Market. This bustling market is an ideal spot for acquiring last-minute snacks, cooking utensils, ingredients, or gifts for loved ones. Participate in an engaging cooking class later in the evening, where a passionate chef will introduce contemporary twists to traditional Vietnamese dishes. Revel in the delightful feast you've prepared during a shared dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel

Board a private bus for a journey to the Mekong Delta, spanning approximately 2–3 hours. Subsequently, embark on a serene cruise along the Mekong River on a traditional sampan, a prevalent mode of transportation in this region. Drift past verdant farms and orchards until you reach your guesthouse, situated adjacent to a family residence. Familiarize yourself with your hosts and take a leisurely stroll through the garden, unwind, or offer assistance with dinner preparations. Indulge in a delectable southern Vietnamese banquet served on the expansive veranda, providing a picturesque view of the garden as the sun sets.

Accommodation: Homestay

If you're inclined towards an early morning bike ride, accompany your hosts to the nearby village market to procure breakfast provisions for the group, followed by a delightful meal back at the homestay. Subsequently, journey back to Ho Chi Minh City by bus. The remainder of your day is yours to explore at your own pace. If you're still energized in the evening, you may opt to savor a farewell Vietnamese meal in the company of your newfound friends.

Accommodation: Hotel

With no scheduled activities for today, feel free to check out from the accommodation at your convenience. Should you desire more time to explore Ho Chi Minh City, we can assist in arranging additional accommodation (subject to availability).