Classic Vietnam

Welcome to your adventure! Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be greeted by a friendly local guide who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. This evening, take some time to settle in and explore the area at your leisure before joining the group for our welcome meeting. During the meeting, your tour host will introduce everyone and go over the details of the exciting journey ahead. We’ll wrap up the evening with a delicious welcome dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, setting the stage for the incredible experiences to come!

Travel to the verdant Mai Chau Valley, a patchwork of rice paddies, emerald hills, and charming traditional villages. This afternoon after we arrive at our lakeside lodge you will have some free time to relax or take advantage of one of the lodges optional activities.

You can opt to take a bamboo float out on the scenic Hoa Binh reservoir, the largest reservoir in Vietnam, or pedal through the countryside on a bike, enjoying the lush scenery and getting a glimpse of local life.

Today is all about soaking in the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of the Mai Chau Valley. From tranquil rice paddies to vibrant local markets, you’ll experience the heart of this enchanting region.

We’ll start with an easy walk through scenic rice terraces and green hills, learning about local tribes and their customs along the way. Highlights include a visit to Na Phon village and a traditional brickworks, followed by a stop at Lac Village or the bustling Mai Chau market for an exotic fruit tasting. As the day winds down, enjoy an authentic dinner at a local home, where you’ll connect with the White Tai community and immerse yourself in their traditions and hospitality.

Today, we head back to Hanoi for an immersive journey through its rich history, vibrant streets, and tantalizing flavors. From exploring poignant landmarks to savoring local delicacies, this day offers a well-rounded experience of Vietnam’s capital city.

We’ll start with a visit to Hoa Lo Prison, famously nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton,” where you’ll delve into its role during the Vietnam War and the struggle for independence. Highlights include the ominous French guillotine and exhibits on American pilots held there. Next, we’ll tour the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, including the stilted house and museum, to learn about Ho Chi Minh’s impactful life and legacy.

In the afternoon, hop onto a cyclo for a ride through the bustling Old Quarter, where you can snap photos or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of Hanoi’s lively streets. In the evening, dive into Hanoi’s street food scene with a guided tour of hidden markets and back alleys. Sample iconic dishes like “nem ran” and “banh goi,” sip draught beer at a local bar, and end the day at Hanoi Food Culture restaurant with a taste of the city’s signature egg coffee.

Today, we set off to experience the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay. After a heartwarming breakfast at Hoa Sua, a non-profit restaurant supporting underprivileged youth, we’ll make our way to Halong Bay. We’ll spend the evening cruising the turquoise waters on a traditional junk boat, surrounded by the stunning limestone karsts that rise from the calm waters.

As we cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay, a quieter part of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, we’ll explore the Me Cung cave with our local guide. The traditional junk boat will be our home for the night, offering all the comforts of a motorized floating hotel. Enjoy included seafood meals and unwind in the cozy cabins, each with an en-suite bathroom. With plenty of open deck space, you’ll have the perfect spot to relax and take in the stunning scenery as we glide through one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world.

After a relaxing morning aboard the junk boat, enjoy a delicious early lunch before we return to land and travel back to Hanoi. From there, we’ll catch a short flight to Hue, a former imperial capital known for its rich history and stunning architecture.

Hue is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, home to many historical treasures, including the ancient Imperial City. Beyond its architectural beauty, Hue was also the site of one of the Vietnam War’s most dramatic battles, making it a place of deep historical significance. Get ready to explore the fascinating stories of this vibrant city!

Today, immerse yourself in the regal history of Hue as we embark on a guided tour of its stunning walled citadel. Explore the lavish palaces, serene gardens, and grand courtyards that once housed Vietnam’s imperial family. We’ll visit the Forbidden Purple City, the private residence of the emperor, offering a glimpse into the luxurious life of the royal court.

Afterward, we’ll venture into the countryside to discover the magnificent tombs of Vietnam’s emperors, set along the peaceful banks of the Perfume River. Later, enjoy a visit to a Buddhist nunnery before indulging in a leisurely lunch. The meal will showcase traditional vegetarian cuisine, made with fresh, local produce and preserved ingredients, offering a taste of Hue’s rich culinary heritage.

Today, sit back and enjoy a scenic drive from Hue to Hoi An, taking in the breathtaking views along the Hai Van Pass. This mountainous stretch of highway offers panoramic vistas of Lang Co Beach, making it one of Vietnam’s most stunning drives.

Upon arrival in Hoi An, a charming town known for its preserved history, we’ll take a walking tour of its ancient streets. You’ll experience the town’s vibrant atmosphere and historical beauty. We’ll also visit the Lifestart Foundation, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn how to make a traditional lantern from one of the program’s beneficiaries. This project helps local Vietnamese with chronic disabilities gain sustainable employment, offering a meaningful and hands-on experience.

Today, embark on a unique culinary journey as we explore a local Hoi An market, led by youths who are being trained in the culinary arts at Oodles of Noodles. This program empowers these young chefs to guide insider noodle tours, sharing their knowledge and skills with others.

We’ll meet two of the students and their trainer, who will guide us through the market, where we’ll discover over 26 types of noodles unique to the area. Learn about the fresh ingredients from local vendors and support small women-owned enterprises as we sample different noodles. After selecting our ingredients, we’ll return to the training kitchen where our youth guides will teach us how to prepare and cook these delicious dishes. We’ll enjoy our freshly made noodles for lunch and watch a video to learn more about the impactful work of the organization.

Today is yours to enjoy as you wish! You may choose to visit the historic My Son Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or perhaps spend a relaxing day at the beach.

The My Son Temples, built between the 4th and 14th centuries, are a remarkable Hindu temple complex and are often compared to other iconic sites like Angkor Wat and Bagan. Explore the ancient architecture and learn about the rich history of this cultural treasure. Alternatively, if you’re craving some downtime, you can unwind by the beach, soaking in the beauty of the coastline. The choice is yours!

After breakfast, we’ll head to the airport for a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Once we arrive, we’ll take a leisurely cyclo tour through the vibrant streets, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the grand Central Post Office, and the historic City Hall.

The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore further. Whether you choose to unwind or dive deeper into the city’s rich history and bustling markets, there’s plenty to discover at your own pace.

Today, we’ll embark on a guided tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels, a remarkable and historically significant network that the Viet Cong used to protect themselves during the Vietnam War. Discover how this intricate underground system served as a hidden base, with tunnels for storing ammunition, underground hospitals, and secret areas for launching attacks on allied forces.

For those feeling adventurous, you can try crawling through some of the tunnels (if you’re not claustrophobic!). This immersive experience will offer a deeper understanding of the resilience and ingenuity behind the tunnel complex. It’s a fascinating and eye-opening part of Vietnam’s war history.

Today marks the end of your incredible journey through Southeast Asia. After an unforgettable adventure and the friendships you’ve made along the way, it’s time to say goodbye. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home, or if you’re ready for more, you can continue your Southeast Asia experience with our Cambodia Tour.

Wherever your next adventure takes you, the memories of this vibrant region will stay with you. Safe travels!