Classic option from US$3495* PP
Trip code: VRS-C-23 |
Group size: Max 16, Avg 12
START Hanoi, Sapa, Hanoi, Halong Bay Overnight Cruise, Hue, Hoi An, Quy Nhon, Nha Trang, Dalat, Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta, Saigon FINISH
Delve further into Vietnam on this overland journey, which reveals treasures many tourists miss. The diverse landscapes of this alluring country unfold slowly before you, offering an array of cultural gems, smiling locals, and mouth-watering cuisine. Meet fisher folk in Hoi An and farmers in the Mekong Delta, then the ethnic minorities living in the mountains of Northern Vietnam. An ever changing backdrop goes from the sparkling seaside Nha Trang to the quirky hilltop Dalat, through verdant farmlands to the bustling cities of Hanoi and Saigon and glistening Halong Bay.
Availability
800 342 1957
2013
DAYS 1-5: HANOI & SAPA
Enjoy a peaceful walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and then a hands-on cooking class to learn about local cuisine. Board an overnight train and wake up to the stunning vistas of Northern Vietnam. Stop at a charming local market when you arrive at Sapa. The Ta Van valley offers lovely views across stepped ricefields. Soak up the regional lifestyle of the mountain dwelling locals, before taking in the incredible views of the lush valley below from Topas Ecolodge. Gain an insight into the unique way of life high in the mountains amongst the minority villages. Relax on an overnight train journey back to Hanoi.
Hotels: Tirant Hotel, Overnight train, Bamboo Sapa Hotel, Topas Ecolodge
DAYS 6-9: HANOI & HALONG BAY
Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the town. Meet the rest of the group for a welcome drink and tour briefing. A morning drive brings you to stunning Halong Bay. Board your overnight cruise and float amongst the thousands of limestone islands. Back in Hanoi, view a performance of the famous water puppets. On an insightful walking tour explore the Old Quarter then discover ‘Uncle Ho’ at his former home and mausoleum, and visit the ancient Temple of Literature and infamous ‘Hanoi Hilton’ prison.
Hotels: Sunway Hotel Hanoi, Overnight boat
DAYS 10-11: HUE
Fly to Hue and unearth an array of historic sites, including the Citadel, elaborate emperors’ tombs and the Thien Mu Pagoda. Visit the Spiral Foundation, where the deaf and mute workers teach you local handicrafts.
Hotel: Hotel Saigon Morin
DAYS 12-14: HOI AN
See spectacular coastal scenery on the way to Hoi An. Amble through charming streets passing historical houses and temples and the iconic Japanese Bridge. Take a morning tour of the local markets with workers from the nearby Streets Foundation, before free time gives you the opportunity to cycle to the inviting beach nearby, or frequent the many tailor shops in town. Try your hand at traditional fishing techniques on the ‘Local Fisherman for a Day’, offering a real insight into Vietnamese life, and learn how to navigate a basket boat through the narrow waterways.
Hotel: Hoi An Pacific Hotel
DAYS 15-17: QUY NHON & NHATRANG
Reflect on the moving My Lai memorial and then continue on to the beguiling port town of Quy Nhon. Admire stunning vistas across the sparkling sea before reaching the country’s premier beach resort, Nha Trang. An island boat cruise gives you the chance to relax, feast on luscious, fresh seafood and swim or snorkel in the East Sea.
Hotels: Saigon Quy Nhon Hotel, Mechelia
DAYS 18-19: DALAT
Leave the coastal shrimp and salt farms behind and head for the rustic villages and tea plantations of the Central Highlands and the former French hill station of Dalat. In this fascinating town of winding streets, colorful markets and abandoned French villas, enjoy the mountain vistas from a cable car ride and admire the faded Art Deco charm of the last emperor’s summer residence.
Hotel: Saigon Dalat Hotel
DAYS 20-23: SAIGON & MEKONG DELTA
Travel by road to Saigon, bursting with energy, and wander along historic Dong Khoi Street, the former Rue Catinat, stopping at sites such as the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum. Visit the amazing Cu Chi tunnels, and spend a day cruising the canals and wandering the shady lanes of the Mekong Delta. On your last day, enjoy free time until your departure transfer.
Hotel: Royal Lotus Hotel Saigon
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