VIETNAM LUXURY

DAY 01: HA NOI ARIVAL.

Arrive Noi Bai international airport. After completing immigration formalities and clearing customs you will be met by our guide outside the baggage claim area who will escort you to a private waiting vehicle for your transfer to your hotel (35 km | Approx. 45 minutes). Our guide will be holding a welcome board with your name. Check in hotel, you're handed a welcome drink at the check-in desk.

Enjoy a traditional water puppet performance “Roi Nuoc” (Approx. 50 minutes). Fully enjoy a traditional water puppet performance, delve into Vietnamese culture, and create lasting memories of your time in Hanoi. After the show, take some time to explore the theatre. Some theatres may have exhibitions or souvenir shops, allowing you to learn more about water puppetry and take home a memento of your experience.

Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure. Overnight in Ha Noi.

DAY 02: HA NOI HISTORY & HOME-HOSTED DINNER (B,D).

After breakfast. Our guide and driver will meet you at the hotel lobby and take you on a full day tour to discover the city. Strolling through the French Quarter, you'll be transported back in time to an era when Hanoi served as the capital of French Indochina. Here, you will find magnificent French colonial structures, such as the iconic Hanoi Opera House. This grand building, with its neoclassical façade and ornate interiors, stands as a symbol of Hanoi's cultural heritage and hosts exceptional performances that showcase both local and international talent.

Morning we will visit:

• The Ho Chi Minh Complex. Follow a long queue to get inside the mausoleum. Take a short walk to Ho Chi Minh’s former house, which is built on stilts.
• One Pillar Pagoda (built in 1049), it’s one of Vietnam’s most iconic temples.

(Note: The complex is closed on Monday & Friday weekly).

The sixth-century Tran Quoc Buddhist Pagoda.

• The Temple of Literature - Vietnam’s first university.

Afternoon:

• The oldest bridge of Ha Noi “Long Bien Bridge” to take photos and see the local life of Hanoi.
• The Maison centrale in Hanoi, also known as Hoa Lo Prison or the ‘Hanoi Hilton’.
• Visit the charming Bach Ma Temple, dedicated to a legendary white horse and adorned with exquisite spiritual statues.
• Visit the St. Joseph's Cathedral, an imposing Gothic-style church that is a testament to Hanoi's religious diversity and history.

Embark on a unique and immersive adventure as you explore the vibrant Old Quarter of Hanoi in a cyclo. This pedicab will allow you to navigate through the bustling streets. The cyclo ride also allows you to witness the interactions and rhythms of daily life. Observe the friendly exchanges between locals as they greet each other on the streets, witness the lively negotiations between buyers and sellers in the markets, and soak up the vibrant energy that is characteristic of Hanoi's old city.

Evening:

Your guide and driver will take you to a local home, where you are warmly welcomed in by a local family. After an inviting cup of tea and a short introduction, step into the family’s main hall to learn more about their traditions and beliefs. Next, head to their kitchen for an entertaining demonstration of secret recipes. Finally, gather round the table for dinner with your family hosts, on this exclusive experience. Return to your hotel with a deeper understanding of local life.

Free your time at leisure. Overnight in Ha Noi.

DAY 03: HA NOI – NINH BINH – TAM COC – HA NOI (B,L).

Breakfast at hotel. Our guide and driver will pick you up at the lobby of your hotel, we transfer to Ninh Binh province (105 km | Approx. 02 hours 30 minutes) to visit Tam Coc - is known as Ha Long Bay on the rice fields.

Upon arrival. We will visit Hoa Lu, which was the capital of the Dinh and Early Le dynasties in Vietnam in the 10th and 11th century.

Hop on a traditional sampan boat and cruise along the winding Ngo Dong River, passing through three limestone caves - Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. As you glide along the calm waters, marvel at the breathtaking vistas of mountains, caves, and rice paddies. Enjoy the serenity and tranquility of the area, taking in the fresh air and peaceful ambiance.

After your lunch at local restaurant, embark on a biking adventure to explore the nearby local villages. Pedal through the narrow paths, passing by charming houses, lush gardens, and friendly locals going about their daily activities. Immerse yourself in the local culture and witness the traditional way of life in this rural area. Take your time to stop and interact with the locals, maybe try some delicious local snacks or traditional drinks, and learn about their daily routines and customs. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes surrounding the villages, with views of the majestic limestone peaks and emerald green fields.

Overnight in Ninh Binh. Relax and unwind in this peaceful town, surrounded by nature and away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

DAY 04: NINH BINH– HA LONG BAY – A NIGHT ON CUISE (B,L,D).

Breakfast at hotel. Our guide and driver will pick you up at the lobby of your hotel. We depart for Ha Long city to visit Ha Long Bay, a World Natural Heritage site and a World of New7Wonders. (200 km | Approx. 03 hour 30 minutes).

Upon arrival in Ha Long. Check-in between 11:30 - 12:00 at the boat port.

• Enjoy welcome drinks and cruise briefing.
• Enjoy lunch while cruising to the magnificent Ha Long Bay. Passing the Fighting cocks Islet, the Elephant leg Islet, the Castle Islet, the Soi Sim Island…
• Luon Cave excursion on bamboo rowing boats or kayaks.
• Swimming or sunbathing at Titov beach.
• Pre-dinner sunset cocktail party.
• Enjoy and learn the Vietnamese cooking demonstration on the sundeck.
• Savour a delicious set dinner in dining room.
• Night-time squid fishing.

(The itinerary above may be changed depending on the cruise we choose and weather permitting).

DAY 05: HA LONG BAY – FLY TO HUE (B,L)

• Greet the day with a morning Tai Chi Exercise with an opportunity to view the sunrise over the bay.
• Light breakfast. Coffee, tea, and pastries are served in restaurant.
• Arrive at Surprise Grotto - one of the most famous grottos in the entire Ha Long, we will visit the cave by tender.
• Enjoy the international brunch buffet served in the restaurant.
• Check-out on board and disembarkation at boat port.

Our tour guide and driver will pick you up then transfer to Noi Bai airport (170 km | Approx. 02 hour 30 minutes) to take a short domestic flight to Hue (approx. 01 hour 15 minutes). Upon arrival Phu Bai airport, you are welcome and then be transferred to your, you’ll be greeted with welcome drink before check in.

Free your time at leisure. Overnight in Hue.

DAY 06: HUE IMPERARIL CITY (B,D).

Breakfast at hotel. Our guide and driver will pick you up at the lobby of your hotel. We will visit:

• Boat trip along the romantic Perfume River carries us through a tranquil setting of gardens and lakes.
• Visit Thien Mu Pagoda - one of the oldest ancient architectural structures for religious work ship in Hue.
• Visit the Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang in a tranquil setting of gardens and lakes.
• Visit the elaborate royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc - One of the most beautifully designed complexes among the tombs of the Nguyen dynasty.

Afternoon:

• Explore Hue Citadel Complex including Royal Citadel and Forbidden Citadel - UNESCO World Heritage sites, set up by Nguyen Dynasty from 1805 to 1945.
• Visit the striking Flag Tower, the imposing Ngo Mon Gate, Dien Tho Residence (Dien Tho Palace), Thai Hoa Palace, the magnificently decorated reception hall, the Halls of the Mandarins, and the original Nine Dynastic Urns…
• Visit Truc Chi Garden, the crafting bamboo paper art workshop. You will have a chance to meet one of the students there and be treated to hands-on experience to learn how to use the etching technique with bamboo pulp to create artworks.
• Visit the bustling Dong Ba Market - one of the romantic symbols of this city, interact with local people.
• Enjoy “Royal dinner”. Enjoy a delicious food while listening to melodious music and having a feeling of being the King and Queen. All wear traditional royal clothes.
• Meet and talk with people who are descendants of kings and royal family to have an in-depth experiences of Nguyen dynasty.

Free your time at leisure. Overnight in Hue.

DAY 07: HUE – DA NANG - HOI AN (B).

Breakfast at hotel. We enjoy a scenic drive takes you to Da Nang (90 km | Approx. 02 hours).

, via the Hai Van Pass. As you traverse the Hai Van Pass, prepare to be enchanted by the picturesque scenery that unfolds before your eyes. The road winds along the coastline, providing panoramic views of the turquoise waters of the Vietnam Sea and lush green valleys.

En route, you will pause in Danang.

• Visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture’s collection of artifacts dating back to the seventh century.
• Visit the Marble Mountain with its beautiful caves of worship.

Transfer to Hoian town. Check in hotel. Free your time at leisure. Overnight in Hoian.

DAY 08: HOI AN ANCIENT TOWN (B,D).

Breakfast at hotel. The highlight of the day is the visit to the Reaching Out Tea House, a welcome little oasis of calm in the busy, vibrant old quarter, owned and operated by the mute and deaf people. Here you will be treated with delicious cakes and incredible tea in the Eastern style.

Move on to the house of a lantern craftsman. There, you can observe the lantern craftsman’s technique before hands-on work through each stage of lantern-making under the guidance of the enthusiastic craftsmen: from bending it into the frame, cutting cloth, gluing, to completing lanterns. Before this trip concludes, you will have your own lantern created by your own hands.

Afternoon:

We enjoy a walking around the historic town to visit:

• Phuc Kien Assembly Hall - One of five official assembly halls in Hoi An (was established in 1697).
• 400-year old Japanese Covered Bridge - The symbol of Hoi An.
• Chua Ong Pagoda (Quan Cong Temple), a centuries-old spiritual treasure trove of Hoi An was established in 1653.
• Tan Ky old house, a living museum with more than 200 years old in Hoi An.
• The silkworm & handicraft workshops.
• Enjoy a short cruise on the river to experience the lantern floating with a lantern drop for good luck.
• Our guide will help you enjoy an authentic Hoi An ancient town, enjoy a cup of egg coffee by the riverside and witness the local life (coffee will be free offered by our guide).

Dinner will be served at a local restaurant (Top 10 must-try dishes in Hoi An will be served during your lunch).

Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure and overnight in Hoi An.

DAY 09: HOI AN AT LEISURE (B).

Breakfast at hotel. Today you have the freedom to spend your time at leisure, exploring the charming town and its surroundings. One popular activity is biking around the town, which allows you to experience the local way of life and take in the beauty of the ancient architecture.

If you had a tailor-made experience at a tailor shop yesterday, now is the perfect time to visit and try on your newly made clothes. Enjoy the personalized service and the opportunity to have clothing that fits you perfectly and reflects your style.

Hoian is known for its abundance of spas and wellness centers, offering a range of treatments and massages. Treat yourself to a soothing massage or a rejuvenating spa session, and let go of any accumulated stress.

Alternatively, you can choose to spend your leisure time at the beach. Hoian is located near beautiful sandy stretches of coastline. Take a short trip to An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.

Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure and overnight in Hoi An.

DAY 10: HOI AN - DA NANG – FLY TO SAI GON (B,D).

Breakfast at hotel. Free your time at leisure until our guide and driver pick you up and transfer to the airport (35 km | Approx. 55 minutes) for a short flight to Ho Chi Minh city (approx. 01 hour 10 minutes). You are welcome at Tan Son Nhat airport and then transferred to your hotel in Saigon (12 km | Approx. 30 minutes). After an included private transfer, you’ll be greeted with welcome drink at the check-in desk.

Enjoy a dinner on Saigon cruise is a perfect way to experience the vibrant nightlife of Ho Chi Minh city, enjoy a delicious dinner, and create lasting memories as you sail along the picturesque Saigon river. Admire the modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and charming riverside houses that line the riverbanks. Witness the contrast between the old and the new as you pass by colonial-era buildings and contemporary architecture.

Free your time at leisure. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city (Saigon).

DAY 11: SAIGON - CU CHI TUNELS - CITY TOUR (B).

Breakfast at hotel. Our guide and driver will pick you up at the lobby of your hotel and then transfer to Cu Chi district, 50 km to the northwest of Saigon city (approx. 01 hour 30 minutes).

• Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, watch a short introductory video showing how they were constructed, then spend the next hour exploring the maze of tunnels.
• Experience history first-hand as you crawl the legendary Cu Chi tunnels, sample local food and food eaten by soldiers who lived in the wonder of Vietnam's unique military art.

Afternoon, enjoy a half day Saigon city tour:

• The twin towers of Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires constructed.
• The historic Saigon Central Post Office.
• The Reunification Palace, the headquarters of the Saigon government during the American war.
• The War Remnants Museum for a vivid perspective of the American war through the eyes of the Vietnamese.
• Walking tour along Dong Khoi Street, known as Rue Catinat in French-colonial times.
• Enjoy a walking tour to visit the famous Ben Thanh Market, this will give you a good insight into the Vietnamese markets as well as an opportunity to interact with locals.

Free your time at leisure. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh city (Saigon).

DAY 12: SAIGON - MEKONG DELTA - CAN THO (B,L).

After breakfast, your private guide and driver will take you out of the city and onto some beautiful country roads to Ben Tre Town, the heart of the Mekong Delta, popularly known as the “rice bowl” of Vietnam. This picturesque little town is famous for its vast rice fields, numerous waterways, and beautiful landscapes.

On arrival, take a xe loi ride through the local village of Huu Dinh to enjoy the green fields and gardens. Continue with a short walk to Huu Phuoc Bridge, where you will start your boat trip through small canals with beautiful tropical scenery. On board the boat, enjoy a welcome drink and tropical fruits while cruising.

The cruise will first stop at a Coconut processing family owned business. Here you will learn what Ben Tre is known for and the hundreds of uses of each single coconut. Your guide will then lead you through a bicycle excursion of around 4 kilometers. Witness the idyllic setting as you ride under the coconut palms, through local villages and past vast rice fields. After your bicycle trip, return to your cruise and cross the river to meet a local farmer, who lives on a large coconut and pomelo garden. Enjoy some of his fresh coconut and have a chat with his family through your guide. Board your day cruise and flow down a branch of the Mekong River. A rowing boat with a local rower will take you through a maze of canals to the local house of Mrs. Huong, who lives with her 3 children and grandson – they live on fishing, shrimp and fruit orchards. Enjoy fresh fruits and tea.

We will then take a motorized cart to a local pier and reconnect with your day cruiser and enjoy a cruise to a private riverside restaurant. It is time for you to relax and enjoy a 5-course lunch of local specialties. Relax and have a walk around the lush garden setting. Then continue your cycling trip to My Long to visit Mr. Sau Tuong, a former Vietcong soldier who survived two years fighting the Khmer Rouge in Phnom Penh. Now he and his wife live on making rice paper which is the most famous specialty of My Long village. Have a chat with him and enjoy the crispy rice paper made by his wife, and see how it is made.

You will then board the boat to return to Ben Tre city for your transfer to Can Tho, the capital city of the Mekong Delta.  Free your time at leisure. Overnight in Can Tho.

DAY 13: CAN THO - CAI RANG FLOATING MARKET - SAIGON.

Breakfast at hotel.

• Boat on Cai Rang floating market, the biggest floating market in the delta.
• Visit to the ancient Binh Thuy house, a very beautiful residence imbued with features of the southern delta. The house was famously used in the 1992 movie “L’Amant” (“The Lover”).

Transfer back to Saigon (170 km | Approx. 03 hours). Free your time at leisure. Overnight in Saigon.

DAY 14: SAIGON – CHINA TOWN – DEPARTURE.

Breakfast at hotel.Our guide and driver will pick you up at the lobby of your hotel and then we visit:

• Explore the China Town called “Cho Lon”.
• Visit the Thien Hau Temple - most well-known sacred site in the heart of prosperous Saigon.
• Visit the amazing Cho Lon and Binh Tay Markets, which are full of energy and dazzling array of goods.

Free your time at leisure until our guide and driver pick you up then transfer to Tan Son Nhat airport (12 km | Approx. 30 minutes) to take your departure flight.