Embrace the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City as you kick start your journey in Vietnam. A warm welcome awaits you at 6 pm tonight, where you will meet your fellow travellers and embark on an unforgettable adventure. While your time in this bustling city may be brief, we recommend arriving a few days early to fully immerse yourself in its rich culture and heritage. Explore ancient pagodas, cathedrals, and bustling markets, or take a stroll down historic Dong Khoi Street for a taste of local life. And what better way to start your journey than with an optional dinner, sampling the mouthwatering delights of Vietnamese cuisine with your newfound friends.

Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a journey to the province of Ben Tre this morning to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Mekong Delta. Cruise along the picturesque canals, surrounded by lush fruit orchards and rice fields, and visit local cottage industries to witness traditional crafts in action. Your evening will be spent at a charming homestay, where you will be welcomed by a Vietnamese family eager to share their way of life with you. Indulge in a delicious home-cooked meal and embrace the warmth of community living in this unforgettable cultural experience.

Experience the beauty and tranquility of the Mekong Delta as you rise early to the sounds of the river coming alive. After a simple breakfast, board a boat to cruise back down the delta before catching a bus back to Ho Chi Minh City. Spend the afternoon exploring the city, with options to visit the War Remnants Museum or Reunification Palace. Don't miss the chance to taste delicious street food and explore the vibrant Ben Thanh Market.

In the evening, embark on an overnight train journey to Danang. Trains are a common mode of transport in Vietnam, offering a unique and local experience. Relax and enjoy the sights and sounds as you travel through the night. Accommodation is provided on board the sleeper train.

Immerse yourself in the charm of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site that transports you back in time to its bustling trading port days. Stroll through the Old Town with your knowledgeable leader, marveling at the well-preserved architecture and visiting iconic landmarks. With a sightseeing pass in hand, you'll have access to the city's top sights.

Indulge in some retail therapy at the vibrant markets and street stalls, where you can find exquisite handicrafts and traditional lanterns. Don't miss the opportunity to have custom-made clothing created by talented local tailors, ensuring you bring home one-of-a-kind pieces.

With three full days in Hoi An, you'll have ample time to soak in the rich history and vibrant culture of this enchanting town. Retreat to your comfortable hotel accommodation after a day of exploration, ready to continue your journey through this captivating destination.

Embark on a journey through the rich cultural traditions of Vietnam with a visit to the My Son temples, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. These ancient temples, constructed between the 4th and 14th centuries, offer a glimpse into the fascinating Cham civilisation.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the peaceful countryside near Hoi An with a scenic bike ride. Pedal through green rice paddies and small creeks, discovering hidden gems off the beaten path. This unique experience will provide you with a deeper understanding of rural life in Vietnam.

After a day of exploration, return to your comfortable hotel in Hoi An to relax and reflect on the beauty and history of this enchanting destination.

As you have another day to immerse yourself in the beauty of Hoi An, why not make the most of it by indulging in some of the local delights? Start your day with a final fitting for your tailor-made clothing before exploring the picturesque streets of this historic town. For a more laid-back experience, rent a bike and pedal your way to the serene beaches of An Bang or Cua Dai.

Hoi An is not only famous for its ancient architecture but also for its delectable cuisine. Consider joining a cooking class to learn the secrets of Vietnamese dishes and visit the vibrant food markets with your local guide. For a unique perspective of the town, hop on a boat and cruise along the Thu Bon River.

Let your local leader know your preferences, and they will tailor your experience to suit your interests. Whether you prefer exploring local markets, relaxing on pristine beaches, or delving into the culinary scene, Hoi An has something for everyone.

Accommodation: Hotel

Say goodbye to the charming town of Hoi An as you embark on a journey to Hue in a comfortable private vehicle. The scenic drive along the Hai Van Pass will treat you to breathtaking views of lush mountains and stunning landscapes. Make sure to have your camera ready for some memorable photo stops along the way.

Upon arrival in Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, you will have the afternoon free to explore this fascinating city. Wander through the bustling streets and peaceful corners of Hue, where the rich history of the region is palpable. Don't miss the chance to visit Dong Ba Market, a bustling market offering a wide array of local goods and a perfect spot for immersing yourself in the local culture.

Hue is renowned for its delectable cuisine, with dishes like bun bo Hue and banh khoai showcasing the unique flavors of the region. Indulge in a culinary adventure and treat your taste buds to the best that Hue has to offer.

After a day of exploration and gastronomic delights, retreat to your comfortable hotel for a well-deserved rest before continuing your journey through Vietnam.

Spend a day exploring the rich history and culture of Hue. Visit the Imperial Citadel, home to the Forbidden Purple City and witness the remnants of the Vietnam War. Take a leisurely cruise along the Perfume River on a traditional dragon boat and visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda. Learn about the tragic story of the monk who self-immolated to protest against the mistreatment of Buddhists. Explore the royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, surrounded by serene gardens and a tranquil lake. End the day with an overnight train journey to Hanoi.

Upon arrival in Hanoi at 5 am, you will be transferred to your hotel to freshen up before starting your exploration of Vietnam's captivating capital. Begin with a walking tour of the Old Quarter, with its 36 unique streets each selling a specific type of product. Wander through Dong Xuan Market and Hoan Kiem Lake, admiring the mix of French colonial and Buddhist architecture. The rest of the day is yours to uncover the hidden gems of Hanoi at your leisure. In the evening, gather your companions and experience the local cuisine at a lively night market, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Vietnam.

Today's itinerary includes a visit to Vun Art, a local organization empowering individuals with disabilities through job training and employment opportunities. Witness firsthand their creative process of producing tote bags and art pieces from discarded silk, sourced from Van Phuc Silk Village. By reusing these scraps, Vun Art not only reduces climate impact but also preserves traditional art forms.

Following this inspiring visit, journey to Pu Luong, a picturesque destination in rural Vietnam renowned for its expansive rice paddy fields nestled within a national park. Upon arrival at your homestay accommodation, revel in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. After a quick lunch, embark on a trek through this natural paradise, encountering the charming water wheel in the village, observing locals tending to the fields, and interacting with various tribal communities to gain insight into their unique culture and customs.

After a day of exploration, unwind with a refreshing swim in the onsite swimming pool, witness the mesmerizing sunset over the terraced fields, or simply meander through the serene surroundings at your leisure. Pu Luong offers a truly immersive cultural experience, allowing you to connect with the local community and appreciate the beauty of rural Vietnam.

After bidding farewell to the serene beauty of Pu Luong, return to Hanoi. Along the way, make a stop at Cam Luong Angelfish Stream to uncover the fascinating legend behind these revered fish. Upon arrival in Hanoi, take advantage of some free time to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere. Explore the bustling Old Quarter, meander around Hoan Kiem Lake, or simply relax in a cafe and observe the local life. Don't miss the chance to visit the iconic Ho Chi Minh Complex or seek out your guide's top picks for dining experiences.

Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a journey to the stunning Cat Ba Island, a hidden gem located in the breathtaking Lan Ha Bay. Explore the emerald waters and limestone islands that make this destination one of Vietnam's most scenic places. Spend your afternoon at your leisure, whether it's hiking through the lush landscapes or simply relaxing on the pristine beaches. End your day with a peaceful evening on Cat Ba Island, where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of this unique paradise.

Accommodation: Hotel

Welcome to Cat Ba Island, a hidden gem in the Gulf of Tonkin! Start your day with a swim in the crystal-clear waters or enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee on the beach. In the afternoon, we'll head back to Hanoi by ferry and bus. Tonight, join us for an optional dinner as we reminisce about our adventures and enjoy a delicious local meal and beer together.

Accommodation: Hotel

Today in Hanoi, you have the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, there is plenty to see and do in Hanoi. You may want to visit the historic Old Quarter, wander around Hoan Kiem Lake, or sample some local street food. If you're interested in history, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temple of Literature are must-see attractions.

Alternatively, you can simply relax and soak in the atmosphere of this bustling city. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities, from bustling markets to modern malls. Whatever you choose to do, make sure to take in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Hanoi.

If you find that one day is not enough to experience all that Hanoi has to offer, feel free to contact your booking agent to arrange for additional accommodation. Enjoy your time in this fascinating city!

Accommodation: Hotel

Today, there are no scheduled activities on the itinerary, giving you the flexibility to explore the charming city of Hanoi at your leisure. After checking out of your accommodation, you are free to wander the bustling streets, sample delicious street food, visit historical sites such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. If you find yourself captivated by the beauty and culture of Hanoi, consider extending your stay for an extra day or two. Our team is more than happy to assist in arranging additional accommodation, based on availability. Take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and unique charm of Vietnam's capital city.