Viet Nam Daily Life Experience

The city tour begins with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex which features the life of Ho Chi Minh, the nation’s founder. At the complex, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the nation’s founder’s body is preserved (closed on Monday, Friday and through October - November), the colonial Presidential Palace, originally the French Governor Office and a fine illustration of French architecture in Hanoi, and the rural style Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts where president Ho Chi Minh lived and worked. Stop by one of Hanoi’s icons, the One Pillar Pagoda, built in the 11th Century in dedication to Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara or Buddha of Compassion and reminiscent of a lotus blossom rising from a pond. Continue to the Temple of Literature, known as the first university of Vietnam, which was built in 1070 by the Ly Dynasty to honor Confucius, sages and outstanding Vietnamese scholars.

Afternoon, continue the tour to one of the following museums of choice namely the Museum of Fine Arts, Museum of Ethnology or Hoa Lo Prison. Next, head for Hoan Kiem Lake, the center point of Hanoi whose name “The Return Sword Lake” originated from a legend of a sacred sword and home to a rare endangered giant turtle species and visit Ngoc Son Temple on the lake. Finish the tour at the Theatre with a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show.

Meals: Breakfast,  

Stay overnight at hotel in Ha Noi  

Morning, your guide and driver will be awaiting you in the hotel lobby for a seamless transfer to Sapa via the newly inaugurated expressway. This expressway, Vietnam's longest, has effectively halved the travel time from Hanoi to Lao Cai, reducing the journey to Sapa to a mere 4-5 hours. This upgrade ensures a swifter, safer, and considerably more comfortable expedition compared to the traditional train route.

Upon arrival, if your room is ready, you'll smoothly check-in; otherwise, your luggage will be secured, allowing you to savor a leisurely breakfast and unwind in the hotel lobby.

Embarking on an exploration with your knowledgeable guide, you'll venture out of Sapa into a captivating hilly terrain, immersing yourself in the cultural richness of Lao Chai and Ta Van Village. Here, you'll gain insights into the communication styles of various ethnic minorities, all while marveling at the majestic mountain landscapes and picturesque terraced fields. Explore ancient sacred stones, each bearing unique and mysterious inscriptions. A stroll along a rattan bridge crossing the Muong Hoa stream will reveal the craftsmanship of the Hmong women diligently weaving fabrics on traditional looms.

The journey continues to the Silver Waterfall, where a historic French-built hydropower station, operational since 1920, awaits exploration, particularly enchanting during the rainy season from May to November. A brief walk to the waterfall unveils panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the lush forests of Hoang Lien National Park. Your guide will offer insights into this special enclave of Sapa, where a variety of tree species, including plum and peach trees, flourish.

Advancing by car to Heaven's Gate, you'll be treated to a breathtaking view of Fansipan Mountain, renowned as 'the roof of Indochina,' soaring to an impressive height of 3143 meters above sea level.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Sapa

Today, we embark on an early morning journey from Sa Pa, navigating winding mountain roads for approximately 2.5 hours to reach the vibrant Bac Ha Market. This expansive outdoor market stands as the epicenter for the region's largest fairs, offering a captivating spectacle of various ethnic minorities engaging in the lively exchange of goods. Here, you'll witness a kaleidoscope of colors as locals trade an array of items, from handicrafts and tools to livestock.

In the afternoon, our adventure continues with a one-hour car ride to Trung Do village, home to the Tay ethnic minority people. Experience the tranquil charm of the village as you leisurely ride on a cart pulled by a water buffalo, immersing yourself in the hospitable atmosphere and observing the peaceful lifestyle of the villagers. Departing from the village, we embark on a boat journey along the Chay River, reveling in the breathtaking mountainous landscape that unfolds along the way. Following the cruise, disembark and rejuvenate with a soothing cup of tea before our return by car to Hanoi.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Ha Noi

In the morning, pick up in Hanoi's Old Quarter for a transfer to breathtaking Halong Bay. The transfer is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. You may stop on the way to appreciate the local scenery. Upon arrival to the port, you'll take a speedboat transfer to your cruise.

Welcome aboard!

Embark on your cruise and enjoy a welcome cocktail followed by an introduction. Boarding time is at approximately 12:15 PM.

Arrive in Ha Long City at 11:30 AM and check in aboard the booked junk when your journey across Ha Long Bay starts. Ha Long Bay means Descending Dragon Bay in Vietnamese as legend has it that it was where a holly dragon landed down from the sky. The bay, well-known as one of the world’s wonders and heritage sites whose formation dates back 500 million years, consists of around 2,000 karst islands and islets scattered over an area of 1,553 km2.

After lunch, take a short trek to a nearby summit for a panoramic view of the bay dotted with golden sails, go swimming on a quiet beach or sunbathe on the sundeck. Later in the afternoon, you will visit an interesting fishing village with an opportunity to interact with local people who have been living in the bay for almost three generations. An optional kayaking trip is available weather permitting. Back onboard enjoy a lavish dinner and enjoy the bay view at sunset. Enjoy a nice relaxing swim in the emerald water and try your hand at kayaking here, which allows you to explore the karst rock formations up close.

Tonight is also a great night to unwind with the ship's "Enjoy the Happy Hour (buy 1 get 1) at the bar" while watching the view of the bay at sunset.  Or indulge in a massage at the end of your evening if you wish -- Please book with the Cruise Manager directly. On board join in a traditional cooking class in which the chef introduces and instructs you on the preparation of Vietnamese dishes. Dinner is served with delicious local food prepared by the wonderful on-board catering staff. Enjoy the landscape of the bay at night up on the top deck. You can hands-on squid fishing at night or watch a movie in the restaurant. Spend a night on board.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay overnight in Ha Long

Note: The detailed program might be changeable slightly because of each program of cruise confirmed and weather situation

In the morning, refresh your body and mind with a Tai Chi exercise on the sundeck at the break of dawn. Have tea and coffee onboard and continue exploring Ha Long Bay sailing across its 2000 islets and visiting some of its major highlights. Normally, check out at 09:30 and have a buffet brunch while cruising back to shore. Disembark at 11:00 AM to transfer to Hanoi capital.

On the way from Halong to Hanoi, you will stop to visit But Thap Pagoda - the country’s cultural historic relic. The pagoda was built under the dynasty of King Tran Thanh Tong (1258-1278) and rebuilt in 1647 in the Le Dynasty. Admire the magnificent architecture of the most typical pagoda in Vietnam with 4-hundred-year statues.

When you arrive at Noi Bai International Airport, check-in board and take flight to Da Nang

Arrive at Da Nang International Airport, meet our guide & driver then transfer to hotel in Hoi An for check-in.

Meals: Brunch

Stay overnight in Hoi An

Morning, city tour to discover the charm of Hoi An as a renowned World Heritage Site. Once a bustling maritime commercial port of Asia between 15th and 19th centuries, Hoi An is now a peaceful town of exceptionally well-preserved architecture, lifestyles and traditions. After receiving a brief introduction to the history, shape, and color of traditional lanterns, start a walking tour around the town to see its highlight sightseeing including the town’s iconic 400-year-old Covered Bridge with a small temple attached to one side as a prominent example of Japanese architecture, the Museum of Trade Ceramics which is an elegant Vietnamese style wooden house built in 1858 showcasing antique ceramic artifacts, the 200-year-old Tan Ky House typifying an ancient Chinese merchant residence, the Ong Temple built in 1653 by Chinese settlers to worship Guan Yu, an ancient Chinese general whose character stands for loyalty, bravery and justice and the local market vibrant with colors and activities.

Afternoon, take a boat cruise on the Thu Bon River to enjoy the countryside landscapes and land on Kim Bong village where carpentry has been practised since the 16th Century as the village’s trademark to visit some old-fashioned boatyards using timber as the main material. Afterwards, move on to Thanh Ha village to see its traditional ceramic production trade still alive and thriving despite the 500-year passage of time. Return to hotel.

Note: Hoi An is famous for speed tailor-made clothes with 4 to 24 hours for tourist.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Hoi An

In the morning, rendezvous with your guide at your hotel for a delightful excursion. Prepare for an immersive experience as you head to a local market, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide from the esteemed cooking school. Traverse the market's bustling aisles to gain insights into the diverse array of ingredients that will grace your culinary creations.

Following the market exploration, embark on a 25-minute boat journey along the scenic Hoi An River. Witness the captivating sight of local fishermen skilfully casting their nets as part of their daily routine. Upon reaching a quaint township, take a leisurely stroll to the cooking school.

The cooking class commences in an open-air pavilion by the river, guided by a seasoned chef. Engage in the art of observation, practice your culinary skills, sample flavors, and craft a delectable lunch in the local style, tailored to your own taste. Indulge in the delightful creation you've prepared.

In the afternoon, savor your free time to explore and relish the charms of the surroundings at your leisure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch after cooking

Stay overnight in Hoi An

Transfer to Hue via the Hai Van Pass (Ocean Cloud Pass). Enjoy the stunning headland-and-bay panoramic view from the pass, which for miles hugs the mountainside along the shoreline and overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Stop on the way to visit Cham Museum, Marble Mountain & Lang Co Beach resort if time permits.

After lunch time we proceed to bike to the most famous handicraft villages in Hue. The first stop will be the conical hat-making village of Phu Cam, where you can witness the whole process of making Hue conical hat ("non Hue"), which symbolized the beauty of Hue women. Afterwards, we move to Duong No village - a populous and rich village where famous for old historical traditions and culture. The village with “Banian tree, water well, communal yard” was constructed in 1471. There was a place where Uncle Ho lived and spent his childhood since 1898.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Hue

Morning, take a full-day tour of Hue City, the former Imperial Capital of Vietnam for the 1802-1945 period and the last refuge of Vietnamese feudalism. The city’s beauty is contributed by a natural scenic landscape and an extensive variety of historical relics. Begin with Hue Citadel, a well-known UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site which is a 520ha fortress-like grand complex built in the early 1800s and featuring three enclosures separated by heavy ramparts namely Kinh Thanh Hue (Civic City) as the outer, Hoang Thanh (Royal City) as the middle and Tu Cam Thanh (Forbidden City) as the inner. Continue to Khai Dinh Tomb, the burial site of Vietnam’s second-to-last king, and the most elaborate compared to other kings’ tombs. The tomb shows a vivid European influence in architecture despite its Asian style. Last for the morning, shopping at Dong Ba market, which is the city’s traditional commercial center

Afternoon, you take a boat cruise along the Perfume River to enjoy the open view of the river and its surroundings. Stop along the way and land on shore to pass by two prominent historical landmarks namely the Minh Mang Tomb, where the 2nd Emperor of the Nguyen dynasty was buried, and Thien Mu Pagoda, an active Buddhist monastery overlooking the river from a vantage point with its origin dating back to 1601.

You are then transferred to the airport for flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Flight time is approximately 1.5 hours.

Arrived at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, warmly welcomed by our guide & driver then transferred to the city. The driving distance is approximately 45 minutes.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh

 Morning, meet your guide and transfer about 75km to the Northwest in the city’s suburbs. Discover the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, which were once a major underground hideout and resistance base of Viet Cong forces during the two wars against the French and the Americans. The tunnels, entirely hand-dug, formed a highly intricate network of interlinked multilevel passageways at times stretched as far as the Cambodian border and totalling over 120 km in length. Its complexity was beyond imagination containing meeting rooms, kitchens, wells, clinics, schools, depots, trenches and emergency exits all aimed for guerrilla warfare. The tunnels were deep and strong enough to withstand destructive bombings and self-contained enough to outlast prolonged sieges. Return to the city at noon time for a rest.

Afternoon, continue to visit War Remnants Museum which features a comprehensive collection of the machinery, weapons, photos, and documentation of Vietnam War with both the French and Americans and the Reunification Palace which was the former residence of the President of South Vietnam until end of April 1975. Next, move to Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, a neo-Roman cathedral built over 130 years ago by the colonial French with materials entirely imported from Marseilles and stained-glass windows from Chartres. You’ll also visit Sai Gon Post Office, a fine colonial building that was designed and built in the early 20th Century by the famous French architect Gustave Eiffel. Move on to Cho Lon or the city’s China Town where you will visit the Jade Emperor Temple (Phuoc Hai), a rare Taoist structure in Vietnam built in 1909 in dedication to the Lord of Heaven. It’s filled with smoky incense and fantastic carved figurines and still buzzing with worshipers, many lounging in the front gardens.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh

Today, your guide and vehicle will pick you up at the hotel to transfer about 136 km to Vinh Long, a riverside town in the vast Mekong Delta, the world’s largest delta. Embark on a boat cruise to the lively Cai Be floating market where sellers and buyers bargain and exchange goods from their boats. Proceed through a fascinating maze of shady canals to Hoa Binh Phuoc Island. Beautiful landscape of zigzag canals, lush vegetation, peaceful villages and activities of rural life will make you a delightful sight. There on the island, visit some local farmers’ homes, interact with warm-hearted hosts and learn about their trades of bonsai gardening, tile and ceramic production and rice paper and coconut candy making.

Afternoon, drive to Can Tho & check-in and free at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Can Tho

Morning, we depart Ninh Kieu wharf by shuttle-boat where you can see bustling activities along Can Tho riverbanks. Particularly, you may know how local people go fishing with plenty of fish traps and how they transport passengers as well as products by the waterway. When we approach Cai Rang floating market, the selling activities have reappeared in the past using a traditional “offering pole” exchanging consumer goods hanging on the pole for Mekong fruit and vegetables with local sellers. In order to understand more about lifestyle over here, keep on going into the small creeks called Rach Nho in which the Southern countryside can be seen clearly before cruising back to Ninh Kieu Wharf. End of day, our guide & driver will transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City. Free in the rest of day.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh

Meet our guide & driver at the hotel lobby then transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for flight

Meals: Breakfast