An Experienced Journey -VietNam Holiday Mrs Mr Zohar Gilon
(20 DAYS) HA NOI – HALONG - LAO CAI - SAPA – HUE - DA NANG HOI AN – MEKONG – SAIGON
SUMMARY
W
elcome to a new perspective on Vietnam for the discerning luxury traveler. Beginning in Hanoi, the safeguard of Vietnamese culture and the bedrock of its national sovereignty, you’ll take a private tour through the old quarter—a district that has changed little over the centuries—before capturing a moment of old colonial grandeur as you ride by cyclo past old landmarks from the French era. You’ll have the chance to select among Hanoi’s best landmarks for a closer look, and in the evening enjoy VIP tickets to the traditional water puppet theater or a classical performance at Hanoi’s Opera House. The following morning you’ll take a deluxe private market and culinary tour to experience all the tastes of the capital city for yourself. Greet the next day with a private transfer to Halong Bay on the sea airplane, cruising in luxury on vessels shaped like the crimson-sailed junks that have always circumnavigated the towering seamounts there. You’ll be visiting unique villages, great caves in the rock, limestone islets, and kayaking across the turquoise waves. After an awe-inspiring sunrise cruise watching the glow of morning erupt through the mist over the sea, return by private transfer you to Lao Cai, a small rural village on the Chinese border. The quiet town is the unassuming gateway to Sapa—one of Vietnam’s most astonishingly beautiful rice-growing regions. On your way there, the countryside around transforms as suburban homes give way to endless terraced paddies of rice. Stop at the misty Bac Ha market for minority hillside tribespeople, and after settling into your deluxe room at Sapa, visit the Silver Waterfall and Tram Tom, the highest mountain pass in the country.
Explore the region even further the following day with a visit to a traditional hill tribe village on the Sapa outskirts. You’ll pass through Red Dzao, Black Hmong, Thai, and indigo-clad Tay settlements, enjoying a quiet lunch in the presence of all nature along the way. On your last day in Sapa, visit the stilt-home village of Sin Chai, with its traditional living and astonishing views. An optional excursion to Fansipan Peak can be arranged. Hue is the home of Vietnam’s classical cuisine and you’ll visit the Purple Forbidden City, once the seat of Vietnamese imperial power, and take a relaxed cyclo tour through the old city area of Dai Noi out to Tinh Tam Lake, the favorite resting places of the emperors themselves.
Visit the Celestial Lady pagoda before a brunch spent uncovering more of Hue’s specialty dishes at a local restaurant specializing in banh uot, a steamed rice pancake, and delicious rice noodles with grilled meat. Take a trip out to Bao La Village, engaged in weaving bamboo products for 500 years, and see the precious Thanh Toan ancient covered bridge and the morning markets nearby. Beyond Bao La is the equally historical town of PhuocTich, home to many important old religious structures built by the various Vietnamese ethnicities. Explore Hoi An with a personal driver and expert guide, heading for the hidden lanes and alleyways where unique storefronts, historic markets and homesteads recall the glories of days gone by. Visit the Trade Ceramic Museum, Phung Hung Ancient House, and Quan Thang House, stopping by smartly-restored shop-houses, Chinese temples and, finally, a lantern-making factory. You may also visit a local silk tailor or take a scenic boat ride along the river beside the town. Beyond the historic town, your exclusive guide will lead you in a private tour of the local farming villages.
Depart the hub of the Vietnamese south in Saigon and head out into the riverside towns of the Mekong, seen from the comfort of the boat, styled as a private sampan. Drop by local villages at the water’s edge and visit floating markets, a hive of boats laden with colorful pyramids of tropical fruit. Visit local cottage industries creating such delicacies as puffed rice and coconut candy. There, the old French colonial facades giving way to prisms of soaring skyscrapers and narrow residences packed together like pastel-colored dominos. Discover the city for yourself with our expert guide; you’ll see the whole story of the city revealed in its landmarks—the old red-brick Gothic cathedral standing opposite the mid-century Reunification Palace, itself just a short stroll from the War Remnants Museum that recounts the nightmare of the war from the Vietnamese perspective. From there, side-step to Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown, with its busy markets of exotic medicinal herbs traded alongside bushels of local coffee, cashew nuts, and wicker trays of banh mi baguettes. Your evening will take you a step closer to the local culture on the back of a Vespa scooter, stopping by selected streetside snack stalls. Optional extras can be arranged on request. On your last full day in Vietnam, visit Cu Chi Tunnels, this underground network of tunnels stretched for over 200km and played a vital part in the U.S.-Vietnam War, allowing the Viet Cong to control a large rural area only 30 to 40 kilometres from Saigon and visit city on scooter vespa. On the final day of your journey, we take you to the airport by private transfer to prepare for your flight home. Vietnam will always be awaiting your return.
Itinerary Overview TRANSFER EXCURSIONS
FLIGHT
CRUISE
Day 1: 15Th March: Hanoi Arrival
Meet your guide & escorted to your private vehicle transfer to hotel in Hanoi . Stay at a palatial colonial-era residence. Accommodation: Metropole Legend - Luxury room
Day 2: 16Th March Hanoi City Tour/ Vespa Tour (B)
A private tour visit One Pillar Pagoda, House on Stilts and Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum & Hilton museum . At noon taking cyclo & walking tour at the old quarter. Continue taking Vespa scooter 2 hours Optional: In the evening Tickets to Tu Phu Show Accommodation: Metropole Legend - Luxury room
Day 3: 17Th March : Hanoi – Ha Long Bay By Sea Airplane (B)
Transfer to the airport for flight to Halong on the sea airplane, with luxury cruise on traditionally-styled ships between the seamounts visiting unique villages, caves, and limestone islets with kayaking across the turquoise waves. Accommodation : Paradise Peak –Premium suit ( upgrade Delux Suit subject available)
Day 4: 18Th March: Ha Long Bay – Sea Air Plane Ha Noi / Drive To Lao Cai (B)
After sunrise over the bay, return by taking sea airplane back to Hanoi . Meet the driver & your guide at the airport for your private transfer you to Lao Cai En route visit Thanh Chuong Palace, the home and studio. Accommodation: Aristo hotel – Junior suit room
Day 5: 19Th March: Bac Ha Market / Silver Water Fall –Tramton Pass (B)
Day 7: 21St March: Sin Chai/ Giang Ta Phinh Village /Drive To Hanoi(B)
Day 6: 20Th March : Visit Thanh Phu Ban Ho/ Topas/ Lao Chai -Tavan Giang Ta Chai Village On Scooter Tour (B,L)
Day 8: 22Nd March: Ha Noi City Tour/ Street Food Walking Tour (B)
Meet your local guide & escorted to misty Bac Ha market, experience the Black Hmong and Red Dao cultures. Continue your way to Sapa, the Silver Waterfall, near Tram Tom mountain pass—the highest in the country. Optional excursion to Fansipan Peak Accommodation: Victoria Sapa resort & spa – suit room
Uncover the majestic views of Sapa, visiting a stilt-home village of the Dzao people at Sin Chai, who have lived in this region for over eight centuries. Proceed to Ta Giang Phin, observe the daily activities of local life. Return to Hanoi, leaving rural paradise behind. Accommodation: Metropole Legend - Luxury room
Morning is free Afternoon half day to visit You may also select from Hanoi’s Visit to a traditional hill tribe village by scooter tour and car, obmuseums—visit the Ethnology & visit the Temple of Literature serve local communities in their traditional way of life, harvest& Hotel Metropole tour ing crops and sewing their distinctive dress. Late afternoon enjoy the Hanoi’s Street Food Walking Tour. Having lunch in Topas eco lodge Accommodation: Metropole Legend - Luxury room Accommodation: Victoria resort & spa – suit room
Day 9: 23Rd March : Ha Noi Flight To Hue / City Tour (B)
12:35 13:45 HAN HUI VJ569 Transfer to the airport for the flight to Hue Enjoy the bustle of the local markets before taking a stroll along the Perfume River, Visit the Purple Forbidden City, styled after the imperial palace in Beijing, then take a relaxed cyclo tour through the old city out to Tinh Tam Lake. Option for dinner at Nha Vuon Accommodation :La Residence resort & spa- Colonial Junior Suite
Day 10: 24Th March : Hue / Danang (B)
Enjoy the bustle of the local markets before stopping by the tombs of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh. Sample Hue’s renowned vegetarian and royal cuisine Say farewell to Hue as you depart in your private transfer heading for Danang Accommodation: Maya Fusion resort - one bed room pool villa
Day 11: 25Th March : My Son Sanctuary/ Cham Museum (B)
You will explore with a driver and expert guide to visit My Son, sanctuaries of the Cham culture that have stood since the era of the Champa kingdom and the Cham Museum, which is home to the finest collection of Cham sculptures in the world. Accommodation: Maya Fusion resort – one bed room pool villa
Day 12: 26Th March : Danang Free Day (B)
Free to enjoy the Spa at Maya Fusion resort Accommodation: Maya Fusion resort - one bed room pool villa
Day 13: 27Th March : Danang - Hoi An (B)
Free on your own at the resort to enjoy the Spa Transfer to Four season The Nam Hai Accommodation: Four season The Nam Hai - one bed room pool villa
Day 14: 28Th March : Hoi An/ Side Car Tour (B)
Sidecar Trip 1 Pax 1 Side Car Free until 4 pm Enjoy the Sidecar trip to the countryside Accommodation: Four season The Nam Hai - one bed room pool villa
Day 15: 29Th March : Hoi An Free Day (B)
Free on your own at the resort Accommodation: Four season The Nam Hai - one bed room pool villa
Day 17: 31St March: Cai Rang Floating Market – Can Tho – Cai Be By Bassac Rice Barge (B,L,D) Explore Cai Rang floating market and check in the Bassac cruise Accommodation on Bassac rice barge
Day 18: 01St April Can Tho Day 16: 30Th March: Hoi An/Da Nang Flight To Sgn/ City Tour (B) Can Tho (B) Departure towards Cai Be, take a row boat and visit Transfer to the airport for flight to Can Tho Meet your guide & Visit the local village,noodle factory & oriental city tour. Check in hotel. Accommodation :Victoria Can Tho resort & spa- suit
Cai Be’s handicraft. Deapart to Sai Gon, visit Chinatown, Fito museum and Thien Hau Pagoda. Accommodation :Park Hyatt- Park Delux
Day 19: 02Nd April Sgn Cu Chi Tunnel /City Tour On Scooter Vespa(B) Depart to the Cu Chi Tunnels and visit. Afternoon visit city on scooter vespa Accommodation :Park Hyatt- Park Delux
Day 20 :3Rd April: Sai Gon City/ Departure (B)
Discover Saigon with our expert guide, seeing the old Gothic cathedral, Reunification Palace, and War Remnants Museum. Transfer to the airport for the flight home
Itinerary In Details TRANSFER EXCURSIONS
FLIGHT
CRUISE
Day 1: 15Th March: Hanoi Arrival
Welcome to a new perspective on Vietnam for the discerning luxury traveler.Take a look around as your private transfer from the airport delivers you to your luxury hotel .This is the thousand-year capital of Hanoi, the safeguard of Vietnamese culture and the bedrock of its national sovereignty, one of its most ancient living towns that still maintains the tranquil atmosphere of its earliest days. It is a microcosm of peace in a location that was once, to Western observers, the very definition of war. Enjoy its poetic soul while you can if the pace continues unimpeded, by 2025 this will be the world’s fastest-growing city.
Meal: None Accommodation: Metropole Legend - Luxury room Distances and journey times: Noi Bai airport – Hanoi (38km): 1 hour
Day 2: 16Th March Hanoi City Tour/ Vespa Tour (B)
You’ll spend the morning getting to know Hanoi intimately with your personal expert guide and driver, who will host a private tour for you to make your own connections with the capital’s thousandfold streets and alleyways.You will visit One Pillar Pagoda, House on Stilts and Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum & Hilton museum . At noon taking cyclo & walking tour at the old quarter. Wander at will through the old quarter, a Hanoian district that has changed little over the centuries, where every street is devoted to a particular trade. Capture a moment of old colonial grandeur as you ride by cyclo past old landmarks from the French era, stopping at crafts markets just as the European settlers would have done in an age gone by.Pass the church street to see the French architecture of
the cathedral.Visit the traditional Northen Vietnamese house at 87 Ma May street. Continue city tour to see hiden lanes by taking Vespa scooter 2 hours(Guests ride pillion behind our drivers ) to Truc Bach Lake, Quang Ba, Ngoc Ha Village (to see remains of a B-52 that was shot down during the 1972 American bombing), Lang Bac (White Waves), calligraphy, gate of Ha Noi Citadel, Thang Long Royal Citadel. A final stop at one of Hanoi’s renowned Bia Hoi, where they serve fresh draft beer and tasty snacks. These “pubs” are traditional favourite social gathering spots as well as watering holes during the afternoons and evenings throughout the city. Optional: In the evening Tickets to Tu Phu Show The Tu Phu show, the product of four years of research into the spiritual world of the Mau religion, is an uplifting spiritual
performance that delves into the colorful customs and lively dance of the region. A 45-minute exploration of the rich transcendental culture of this region. Presented at the Cong Nhan Theatre (just three minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake) every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday http://www.myhanoitours.com/four-palaces-tuphu-show/ Notes: • Availability: Morning • Suggested start time: 09:00 • Duration: 8 hours Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: Metropole Legend - Luxury room
Day 3: 17Th March : Hanoi – Ha Long Bay By Sea Airplane (B)
Greet the day with a private transfer to Noi Bai airport for taking sea airplane with senic view of Halong Bay( 1,15 m), an astonishing natural wonder where almost 2000 gigantic pillars of limestone karsts reach heavenwards from the ocean bed. Cruise in luxury on vessels shaped like the crimson-sailed junks that have circumnavigated these seamounts for centuries. This exquisitely beautiful region, made famous in the gorgeous French cinematic masterpiece Indochine, is one of those truly extraordinary locations that doesn’t fail to live up to its reputation. Watch in awe as the majesty of the bay unfolds—this is the true
treasure of Vietnam. Notes: • Suggested start time: 08:00 • Duration: 4 hours Meal: Breakfast,Lunch ,Dinner Accommodation : Paradise Peak –Premium suit ( upgrade Delux Suit subject available) (Note:seas air plane allow 7 kg /pax,leave the luggages at the hotel in Hanoi) Distances and journey times: Hanoi - Noi Bai airport (38km): 1 hour Noi Bai – Halong by sea airplane :60minutes
Day 4: 18Th March: Ha Long Bay – Sea Air Plane Ha Noi /Drive To Lao Cai (B)
After an awe-inspiring sunrise cruise on the bay watching the glow of morning erupt through the mist over the sea, your morning tai-chi demonstration will set the mood for this last soporific jaunt across one of the more picturesque regions of the bay, after which you will be picked up & taking sea airplane back to Hanoi . Meet the driver & your guide at the airport for your private transfer you to Lao Cai( 4 hours driving). En route visit Thanh Chuong Palace, the home and studio of Thanh Chuong, one of the most celebrated painters in Vietnam. More a living space than a museum, the Palace is an architectural gem showcasing Vietnamese traditional cultural objects, exquisite antiques and remarkable structures. (Having lunch on your own account ) Lao Cai is a small rural village where you’ll be able to see the friendly Chinese border town of Hekou just across the bridge. The quiet town is the
unassuming gateway to Sapa—one of Vietnam’s most astonishingly beautiful rice-growing regions. Notes: • Start time: 08:00 • Duration: 8 hours Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: Aristo hotel – Junior suit room (Note:guide will collect your luggages & bring with you to the airport) Distances and journey times : Halong - Noi Bai by sea airplane : 60minutes Noi Bai airport – Lao Cai : 4 hours
Day 5: 19Th March: Bac Ha Market / Silver Water Fall –Tramton Pass (B)
Morning meet your local guide & escorted to misty Bac Ha market , where the hundreds of ethnic market stalls are a congregation of color and costume and where minority hillside tribespeople gather to perform their trade activities. The energizing spectacle of textiles and local produce reflect the character of the Black Hmong and Red Dao cultures who circulate the tabletops loaded with their wares. Continue your way to Sapa( 2,5 hour drive). By the early afternoon, you’ll have arrived to the majestic views of Sapa. Quick oriental the Sapa center & having ,lunch on your own . After settling into your deluxe room, the Silver Waterfall, known in these parts as Thac Bac. Among the highest of its kind in this country, the path from the fall will lead to Tram Tom Pass—at 1,900 meters above sea level, the highest mountain pass in the country and the site of the Heaven Gate with the best vantage over the valley you’ll have seen thus far.
An optional excursion to Fansipan Peak can be arranged, often referred to as “the Roof of Indochina.” The cable car ride to the summit is one of the longest of its kind, allowing you to enjoy the views from within for a full 20 minutes.(ticket own your own 30 usd/pax) Notes: • Availability: Morning • Suggested start time: 07:30 • Duration: 8 hours Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: Victoria Sapa resort & spa – suit room Distances and journey times : Lao Cai – Bac Ha ( 70km) : 1hr30mins Bac Ha – Sapa (102km): 2,5 hours
Day 6: 20Th March : Visit Thanh Phu Ban Ho/ Topas/ Lao Chai -Tavan Giang Ta Chai Village On Scooter Tour (B,L)
Visit by Scooter tour (Guests ride pillion behind our drivers ) Waking up in beautiful Sapa is like emerging through the clouds into a fantasy realm. Indeed, as the mists lift off the mountains in the early morning, the full vista of Sapa reveals itself to the dawn, shyly unveiling its lush forests and fields of rice to every privileged observer. Today you will explore the region even further with a visit to a traditional hill tribe village on the Sapa outskirts on the back of the scooter . This will be a more intimate program than that of the previous day, with more opportunities to directly interact with the minority peoples of the region. Descending into the verdant greens of the valley floor, you’ll pass through Red Dzao, Black Hmong, Thai, and indigo-clad Tay settlements, enjoying a quiet lunch in the presence of all nature at your chosen point along the way.
Depart by car to visit Ban Ho & Thanh Phu village , enjoy along such a beautiful valley lying between mountains as well as the spectacular landscapes of the Hoang Lien mountain range.At here, hop on your scooter to Enjoy the great view of the Fansipan Peak and the stunning Muong Hoa Valley opens wide in the sight as the trek approaching to high elevation and offers amazing panorama of Muong Hoa Valley. Walking around the village to learn about their way of living & culture Observation the peaceful rural life of local tribe people here (topas ecolodge). Having lunch in Topas eco lodge Afternoon continue driving down on the scooter the Muong Hoa Valley towards the Black H’mong village of Lao Chai. Riding to the village & visit to local families will help you to get deeper knowledge about rural village life in the North-West of Vietnam. Leaving Lao Chai village to Tavan village then following the foot path uphill, you will pass through impressive terraced rice paddies on the hill slopes before getting through a bamboo forest, a huge waterfall to Giang Ta Chai village of the Red Zao
tribe. Walking around the village you may see women who make their traditional dresses with embroidery, and occasionally you can see the blacksmiths making farming tools and even hunting rifles. Afternoon return to your hotel by car or scooter is your choice. (Note :the car is following the group in case anyone would like to seats in the car instead of scooter or taking break during the day ) Notes: • Availability: Morning • Suggested start time: 09:00 • Duration: 8 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Victoria Sapa resort & spa – suit room Distances and journey times : Sapa- Thanh Phu- Ban Ho (14km): 55mins Ban Ho – Lao Chai (3km) : 12mins Giang Ta Chai – Sapa (21km ): 1hr30min
Day 7: 21st march: sin chai/ giang ta phinh village /drive to hanoi(b)
Morning Heading northwards of Sapa along national road 4C to O Quy Ho with several stops for magnificent landscapes of Fansipan, Sin Chai valley and especially amazing flower and vegetable farms . Then turn right to follow a narrow road for half an hour getting through the wild region with thick rain forest covering walled-up mountains, passing several waterfalls before arriving to Ban Khoang, a village of the Red Zao ethnic peoples who live their unique way of life and well maintain their traditional values. The village looks prosperous thanks to the combination of wet rice cultivation on the terraced fields with cardamom farming under the shade of trees in thick forest. Spend over an hour walking to explore this remote village for a brief understanding of local life. Leaving Ban Khoang and process along the road for about 10km to Ta Giang Phin valley inhabited by the Black Hmong who live in some small villages scattering along a peaceful stream. Walking along village path which connects village to village to witness daily activities of local life such as plough and harrow the fields, growing, harvesting or doing some house work. In leisure months men often gather to built new houses or repair parts of old ones while women stay home making their traditional costumes. The walk ends in mid afternoon, picked up for the road ride to Sapa. At 14:30 Drive to Hanoi (5 hours driving) Late check out is not included Notes: • Availability: Morning • Suggested start time: 9:00 • Duration: 10 hours Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: Metropole Legend - Luxury room Distances and journey times :
Sapa- Ta Giang Phing (24km) :50mins Sapa – Ha Noi (320Km): 5hours
Day 8: 22Nd March: Ha Noi City Tour/ Street Food Walking Tour (B)
Morning is free on your own to enjoy your luxury hotel . Today taking half day to visit You may also select from Hanoi’s museums—visit the Ethnology & visit the Temple of Literature & Hotel tour ( especialy only for guest who stay – booking in advance with hotel ) At 18.00 Enjoy the Hanoi’s Street Food Walking Tour. An evening walking tour setting out from the city’s
largest covered market, sampling the various delicacies of the local cuisine along the way, all clearly explained in English for maximum insight into the intricacies and traditions of local culture, including those purely local and others inspired under the cultural influence of the French and Chinese. Includes a stroll through Hanoi’s historic “Old Quarter” where local life remains much as it always has. End the tour with one of Hanoi’s best kept secrets, a hidden café with stunning views over the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, serving the rare local delicacy egg coffee. Notes: • Availability: Afternoon & Evening • Suggested start time: 13:00 • Duration: 6 hours Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: Metropole Legend - Luxury room
Day 9: 23Rd March : Ha Noi Flight To Hue / City Tour (B)
12:35 13:45 HAN HUI VJ569 Morning Transfer to the airport for the flight to Hue Hue has a certain mood about it common to ancient seats of empire, and you’ll sense some of that past glory at the Celestial Lady Pagoda that has stood over the Perfume River for more than 400 years. It was erected to fulfill a prophecy made by a mysterious feminine being who, according to local legend, materialized there in gorgeous robes of blue and red to foretell of a leader who would both construct it and then bring wealth to the people of the land. Upon arrival, meet your guide and you’ll be driving along the Perfume River, visit to Thien Mu (Celestial Lady) Pagoda ,constructed in 1601, the 21-meter-tall tower is the centerpiece of the pagoda and represents the seven reincarnations of Buddha. In the grounds of the pagoda is an Austin car made famous in 1963 when a resident monk drove the vehicle to what
was then Saigon to protest against the southern regime. The photo of his self-immolation was captured and became one of the most famous images of the war.Following to visit one of the country’s most important architectural heritage sites—the Purple Forbidden City, styled after the imperial palace in Beijing, which was once the seat of Vietnamese imperial power. This is a maze of cultural treasures and grand historic halls, the former home of the Nguyen lords embellished with royal flourishes and elegant pagodas. The citadel is far from its pristine state, however, having been significantly damaged during the war era. End of the citadel visit, take a relaxed cyclo tour through the old city area of Dai Noi out to Tinh Tam Lake, the favorite resting places of the emperors themselves. You too will enjoy the tranquil scene of the lake blanketed in lotus flowers, perhaps from the table of a streetside café in the university zone. Option for dinner in private home book in advance: The evening meal will be held at Nha Vuon, a traditionally-styled garden house serving further imperial delights.
Village, a town that has been engaged in weaving bamboo products for 500 years, where you’ll see the precious Thanh Toan ancient covered bridge and the morning markets nearby. Beyond Bao La is the equally historical town of Phuoc Tich, home to many important old religious structures built by the various Vietnamese. Late afternoon Say farewell to Hue as you depart in your private transfer heading for Danang (3 ½-hour) . Day 10: 24Th March : Hue / Danang (B) Notes: Your morning will be spent pleasantly on cyclo soaking in the bustle of the • Availability: Morning local Tay Loc market which is located in the northwest part of dai noi. This • Suggested start time: 08:00 market is mostly used by locals and is rarely visited by tourists before Paying • Duration: 8 hours tribute to the kings of old at the Nguyen Dynasty Mausoleum, stopping by the Meal: Breakfast tombs of the renowned Minh Mang and Khai Dinh. Accommodation: Maya Fusion resort - one bed Sample of Hue’s specialty dishes at a local restaurant specializing in banh uot, a room pool villa steamed rice pancake rolled around a fine-chopped pork filling, and delicious Distances and journey times : rice noodles with grilled meat ,frequented only by the locals at Huynh Anh Kim Hue – Danang (100km) : 2hrs15min Long restaurant . This will renew your energies for the trip out to Bao La Notes: • Availability: Morning • Suggested start time: 10:00 • Duration: 6 hours Meal: Breakfast Accommodation :La Residence resort & spa- Colonial Junior Suite Distances and journey times : Hanoi – Noi Bai airport (38 km) : 1 hour Hue Airport - Hue (20km): 40 minutes
Day 11: 25Th March : My Son Sanctuary/ Cham Museum (B)
Today you will explore the abandoned tower-temple ruins of My Son, sanctuaries of the Cham culture that have stood since the era of the Champa kingdom, which was once based in this region. The architecture of these structures is unique, having its cultural origins in the Hindu art of India. This dramatic site is surrounded by mountains that provide the watershed for the sacred Thu Bon river, and is designed to represent the home of the deities at the center of the universe. On the way, stopping by the Cham museum along the way, home to the finest stone carvings and statues that remain of a culture that is largely lost to history. Afternoon is free at the resort ( we need to book the spa in advance) Notes: • Availability: Morning • Suggested start time: 10:00 • Duration: 4 hours Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: Maya Fusion resort - one bed room pool villa Distances and journey times: Hoi An to My Son (60km): 1.5 hours
Day 12: 26Th March : Danang Free Day (B) Free to enjoy the Spa at Maya Fusion resort Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: Maya Fusion resort - one bed room pool villa
Day 13: 27Th March : Danang - Hoi An (B)
Free on your own at the resort to enjoy the Spa till 12 noon. Transfer to The Nam Hai (only driver, no guide) Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: Four season The Nam Hai - one bed room pool villa
Day 14: 28Th March : Hoi An/ Side Car Tour (B)
SIDECAR TRIP 1 PAX 1 SIDE CAR At 4 pm Enjoy the Sidecar trip to the countryside Explore the countryside near the town of Hoi An with a different means of transportation - the classic
sidecar! Just 5 minutes of driving will take you to a totally different side of Hoi An to experience the beauty of wild nature in this memorable 60-minute adventure around the area. Take in a deep breath of fresh air and let the picturesque landscape amaze you - the endless green fields, canals, the peaceful river dotted by little houses of local fishermen... don’t forget your camera at the hotel because you’ll find it impossible not to snap away at the beautiful scenery. Our 60 minutes tour is sure to revitalize you with a unique look at Hoi An using a unique mode of transportation on display. Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: Four season The Nam Hai - one bed room pool villa
Day 15: 29Th March : Hoi An Free Day (B)
Free on your own at the resort Meal: Breakfast Accommodation: Four season The Nam Hai - one bed room pool villa
Day 16: 30Th March: Hoi An/Da Nang Flight To Can Tho (B) Vj702 Tba
Transfer to the airport for flight to Can Tho (only driver, no guide) Upon arrival, meet your guide & Visit the local village,noodle factory & oriental city tour. Check in hotel. Meal: Breakfast Accommodation :Victoria Can Tho resort & spa- suit Distances and journey times: Hoi An - Danang airport (40Km): 50 mins Can tho airport – Hotel (13km): 30mins
• Boarding back, complimentary drink as a welcome back on board. Rest on the deck or around the bar enjoying the sunset. Make an early start cruising among the Mekong river to explore Cai Rang floating • The crew serves dinner while the market. There, hundreds of boats jostle to sell their wares loaded with fruits, Bassac is cruising Mang Thit river towards her vegetables and fish, with some boats selling noodle soup, coffee and soft drinks for anchorage point for the night. shoppers. • The Bassac sets anchor for the night At 12 noon check in the Bssac cruise on river Mang Thit. • Boarding at Can Tho at Ninh Kieu pier. Welcome drink, introduction to Meals:breakfast,lunch, dinner the ship and crew, check into the cabins. Departure downstream of the Hau river. Accommodation on Bassac rice barge Lunch on board while en route. • Turning into Nicolai canal, towards the Mang Thit and Co Chien rivers. Day 18: 01St April Can Tho Rest on the upper deck in a scenery of rice fields, sugar cane, woods on the near - Sgn/ City Tour (B) banks. • 06:30 Departure towards Cai Be. The • By mid-afternoon, the Bassac casts anchor for a visit on shore: past the passengers take their breakfast while enjoying first tree line, quiet discovery of the peaceful life in the delta’s countryside, of rice the scenery on the banks. fields, fruit trees and the welcoming inhabitants. • The Bassac crosses Co Chien river
Day 17: 31St March: Cai Rang Floating Market – Can Tho – Cai Be By Bassac Rice Barge (B,L,D)
then branches into Cho Lach canal for 30 minutes through the traffic of sand and rice barges, in a scenery of fruit drying facilities and wooden ship building yards. • Arrival near Cai Be, check-out and transfer to a rowing boat for a quiet visit through a small canal if the tide allows. • Rendez-vous with a local boat, which will take you to shore for a visit of Cai Be’s handicraft. • End of services by mid-morning on shore at Cái Bè. Please note you will leave the Bassac for good upon boarding the small boat for the last visit, typically about 8:30. The details of the program and the visits may vary depending on logistics or technical constraints. Deapart to Sgn ( 2 hours) arrive SGN in the afternoon. For centuries the soul of the Vietnamese south, the transformative energy of Saigon is obvious from the moment you arrive. The ever-present hum of scooter engines, drawing 8.22 million people through the city’s intricate web of lanes in chaotic pulses, seem to lift Saigon’s architecture skyward in a grand orchestral sweep, the old French colonial facades giving way to prisms of soaring skyscrapers and narrow residences packed together like pastel-colored dominos.
On the way , side-step to Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown, with its busy markets of exotic medicinal herbs traded alongside bushels of local coffee, cashew nuts, and wicker trays of banh mi baguettes. Browse the aisles of vibrant Vietnamese silks and then, if desired, step forward in time at the boutiques of leading Vietnamese designers producing local couture garments based on traditional oriental cultural derivatives. Visit Fito museum & Thien Hau Pagoda. Notes: • Start time: 08:00 • Duration: 8 hours Meal: Breakfast Accommodation :Park Hyatt- Park Delux Distances and journey times: Cai Be – Sai Gon (100km): 2 hours
Day 19: 02Nd April Sgn Cu Chi Tunnel / City Tour On Scooter Vespa(B)
Depart to the Cu Chi Tunnels by car . This underground network of tunnels stretched for over 200km and played a vital part in the U.S.-Vietnam War, allowing the Viet Cong to control a large rural area only 30 to 40 kilometres from Saigon. The network, parts of which were several levels deep, included innumerable trap doors, living areas, storage facilities, weapons factories, field hospitals, command centre and kitchens. Viewing the tunnels is an unforgettable experience, conveying the horrors endured by people in wartime. Afternoon visit city on SCOOTER VESPA Scooter tour 2 hours giving you the overview of the city .Guests ride on pillion behind our experienced drivers to visit the old colonial architecture building of the People’s Committee, Rex, the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Grand Central Post Office, CIA building on Dong Khoi street, the Opera House.Visit Le cong Kieu antique stree.Taking over view from the highest towel of Viet Nam. You will be then visited the District 7 and district 2, where you can find the modern city with
apartment building and many villas for middle and upper class citizens. Finally enjoy the cocktail over saigon river Notes: • Availability: Morning • Suggested start time: 9:00 • Duration: 7 hours Meal: Breakfast Accommodation :Park Hyatt- Park Delux Distances and journey times : Sai Gon –Cu Chi ( 45Km): 1hour
Day 20 :3Rd April: Sai Gon City/ Departure (B)
Take the day to discover the city for yourself with our expert guide, who will lead you to explore Saigon with all your senses. As the heavy aroma of rich black coffee condenses in gusts of incense smoke from its old temples, you’ll see the whole story of the city revealed in its landmarks—the old red-brick Gothic cathedral standing opposite the mid-century Reunification
Palace, itself just a short stroll from the War Remnants Museum that recounts the nightmare of the war from the Vietnamese perspective. Transfer to the airport for the flight home Late check out is not included) Notes: • Availability: Morning • Suggested start time: 10:00 • Duration: 4 hours Meal: Breakfast Distances and journey times : Hotel in Sai Gon - Tan Son Nhat Airport ( 15km):45 minutes
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Luxury room
Aristo hotel LAO CAI
Bassac rice barge
CAN THO
Paradise Peak Charter HA LONG
Four season THE NAM HAI
Hoi An 1 bed room beach front pool villa
La residents resort & Spa
HUE Colonial Junior Suite
MaIa Fusion resort
DANANG One bed room pool villa
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