LAND OF THE ASCENDING DRAGON   

Unearth Vietnam in the deep south and its upbeat capital Saigon, officially known as Ho Chi Minh. Enjoy this bustling ever changing youthful city with its amazing markets and neon night life before you head for the traditional experience of the Mekong Delta through stilted houses, floating morning markets and rural country side.

More of this fascinating country is unveiled as we travel to the country’s centre and the picturesque 16th century harbor of Hoi An. Drive on one of Vietnam’s most scenic highways to the old imperial capital of Hue. Sail down the Perfume River, visit the Forbidden Purple Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda and sample the refined and unique Hue cuisine.

We end in the North and Vietnam’s sophisticated capital Hanoi. Walk down tree-lined boulevards along the splendor of French colonial architecture, explore the city’s old and French quarter with its extensive markets, art galleries, eateries and coffee shops. Enjoy a water puppet performance in one of Hanoi’s theatres and watch Hanoi on parade while sipping ice cold coffee in one of the cafes by Hoan Kiem Lake.

From here we travel to Halong and Cruise through thousands of sharp limestone islands at the UNESCO heritage Bay of Halong, explore small hidden coves and impressive caves with glittering stalactites, a truly magical way to end your time in Vietnam.

 

 

Day 1: Depart from the UK

Our scheduled flight leaves London for Vietnam.

 

Day 2: Arrive Saigon

Saigon

A representative will meet you in Saigon and bring you to your hotel. You are then free to unwind after your flight and get settled into your new surroundings. 

 

Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City – Ben Tre in Mekong Delta

Ho Chi Minh City

We drive to the Ben Tre province crossing Rach Mieu Bridge. On arrival we take a boat on the Ben Tre River, stopping at a brick kiln and a coconut processing workshop. In the afternoon we take a rowing-boat along beautiful water palm creek and enjoying the incredible Mekong Delta.

 

Day 4: Ho Chi Minh City—Cu Chi Tunnels

Ho Chi Minh City

We start by visiting the Reunification Palace and War Museum with stops at the Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office and Ben Thanh Market. In the afternoon we then visit the Cu Chi Tunnels created to assist the Viet Minh to combat the French.

 

Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City—Hue

Hue

After catching a flight to Hue you are transferred to your hotel where the remainder of the day is free to enjoy as you wish.

 

Day 6: Hue

Hue

Our adventure begins as we board our boat for a trip on the Perfume River, visiting the Thien Mu Pagoda and the tombs of the emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. After lunch, we see the local Dong Ba market and take a cyclo to explore the ancient streets of Hue

 

Day 7: Hue to Hoi An via China Beach

Hoi An

While we drive to Hoi An, we stop at the Cham Museum in Danang to learn about the Cham culture before we go on a tour around Hoi An Town, visiting the Japanese Covered Bridge, Chinese Assembly Hall and local market. There’re numerous art galleries, souvenirs and tailor shops where you can get some express made-to-order clothes. 

 

Day 8: Hoi An – Half day tour to My Son Sanctuary

Hoi An

My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site, located in a lush valley. My Son is considered to be in the same league as some of Southeast Asia’s greatest archaeological sites with its towers built between the 4th to 13th centuries. 

 

Day 9: Hoi An

Hoi An

Enjoy a free day at Hoi An to enjoy this unique city or relax by the beach. 

 

Day 10: Hoi An – Danang—Hanoi

Hanoi

Catch an early flight to Hanoi, where on arrival you will go on a Hanoi city tour, visiting Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, his house on stilts, the One-Pillar Pagoda and Tran Quoc Pagoda. After lunch we visit the Temple of Literature and take a cyclo tour of the old quarter before finishing the day with a performance of the famous water-puppets. 

 

Day 11: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay & Cruise

Ha Long Bay

We drive to Ha Long Bay, a World Heritage Area of outstanding natural beauty, board a boat and enjoy lunch as we set sail. Docking near the floating fishing village of Cu Van, we take a sampan boat to tour the area before sunset, dinner and late night squid fishing. 

 

Day 12: Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay

Today we take a small boat and head to Dau Be point, famous for its tunnels, lagoons, crystal waters and secluded beaches. The highlight is kayaking through the spectacular tunnels to reach secret lagoon, before anchoring near a beautiful beach where you can spend the afternoon.

 

Day 13: Halong Bay – Hanoi

Hanoi

Rise early with an on-board Tai Chi session before breakfast and then leaving the boat on a short trip to explore a fabulous cave and lagoon. Returning back to your boat we then sail back to Ha Long Bay having an early lunch before docking and returning back to Hanoi. 

 

Day 14: Depart Hanoi

Hanoi

After breakfast you are free to enjoy your last morning before we take you to the airport for your departing flight. 

 

Day 15: Arrive back in the UK Airport

Morning Arrival in the UK.

 

 

 

Price per person sharing: 3679 GBP (subject to change and availability)