Charming Vietnam Cambodia

Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, after you finish all customs and immigration procedures, please head to the exit gate and look for your driver who will be waiting for you, holding a welcome signboard with your name on it. Then, you will be transferred to your hotel in town by a private vehicle.

Overnight in Ha Noi.

The capital of Vietnam, Ha Noi is a perfect blend of old and new, Asian and European, a dynamic unification of tradition and progressive 21st-century thinking. Despite recent rapid development, the city has retained much of its traditional identity.

Visit the complex dedicated to Ho Chi Minh, the nation’s founder and affectionately known to the Vietnamese as “Uncle Ho”. Make the first stop at the historic Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, an imposing monument built to serve as the final resting place of Uncle Ho. Continue walking through the beautiful botanical garden of the Presidential Palace to visit Uncle Ho’s humble house, built based on a rural Vietnamese stilt house with simple design in a tranquil setting, reflecting his simple, pure and noble lifestyle. Tour the One Pillar Pagoda, built in 1049 of wood on a single stone pillar, designed to resemble a lotus blossom, a symbol of purity. Transfer to a nearby local lake, where a B52 relic is being exhibit. Catch a glimpse of the wreckage once hailed as a “fortress” in the sky, the metal now lay in middle of the lake, preserving by people who shot it down. Just a few steps away is the house of a witness to this event, visit the house and have a talk with him, hearing the heroic stories of Hanoian and how the local people recovered from the war. Continue to the Tran Quoc pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest pagoda, located on a small island of West Lake.

In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, the first university of Vietnam. Constructed in the 11th Century, this stunning temple constitutes a rare example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture and is featured on the back of the 100,000 Vietnamese dong banknote. Discover the vibrant heart of Hanoi in the most authentic and leisurely way – aboard a traditional cyclo. These charming three-wheeled bicycle taxis have been a part of Hanoi's cultural fabric for decades, offering a nostalgic and intimate journey through the city's bustling streets. With the gentle rhythm of the cyclo and the fresh breeze on your face, you'll find yourself transported to a world where old-world charm seamlessly blends with the lively energy of modern-day Hanoi. The ride ends at O Quan Chuong Gate, the only remaining gate of the ancient Thang Long citadel. Right nearby is Thanh Ha wet market. Take a walk to visit the lively market, your guide will explain about the different kinds of Vietnamese fruits, vegetables, spices and the local way of life. The bustling atmosphere, full of sights, sounds, and fragrances, offers an authentic taste of Hanoi life, where you will sample a variety of local delicacies from savoury snacks to sweet treats, each crafted with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques, making the market a rich cultural and culinary experience at the heart of the city. Learn more about the history of Vietnamese food, the country's culture, and the eating habits of the Vietnamese people as you watch the vendors prepare your meals.

Overnight in Ha Noi.

This morning, enjoy a 2-hour drive from downtown Ha Noi to Ninh Binh province. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, Ninh Binh is home to amazing karst mountains, misty caves, and historical relics. It is a spectacular landscape of limestone karts peaks permeated with valleys, some of which are submerged, and surrounded by spectacular cliffs.

Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu to get an overview of the first three centralized feudal states of Vietnam: the Dinh Dynasty, the Le Dynasty, and the Ly Dynasty. While the ancient citadel has probably disappeared, the temples of the Dinh and Le Dynasties still remain surrounded by rice paddies and mountains. Visit Bich Dong which was conferred by a King as the “Vietnam’s second most beautiful grotto”. The grotto is adorned with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites of different shapes and colors. Climb up the Ngu Nhac Son (Buddha’s Palm Mountain) to enjoy the panoramic view that is created by mountains, rivers, pagodas, and temples.

Known as “Ha Long Bay on Land”, Tam Coc (“three caves” in Vietnamese meaning) was formed by the river of Ngo Dong flowing through a mountain. This afternoon, a local skilled rower will take you on a magnificent waterway lined with rice paddies. Enjoy the spectacular view of the karst formation as you explore these caves amid by towering mountains. Disembark the boat and enjoy a follow a village trail to reach Thai Vi temple. Enjoy the beautiful rural landscape as you pass by the endless rice fields and mysterious grotto with a sacred shrine inside.

Take in the peaceful countryside views on your way back to Hanoi in the late afternoon. Overnight in Ha Noi.

This morning, pick up at your hotel by shared shuttle bus without guide and depart for a 2,5-hour journey to Ha Long Bay. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1994, Ha Long Bay covers an area of 43,400 ha and includes over 1,600 islands and islets, most of which are uninhabited and untouched. Ha Long (literally “where the dragon descends into the sea” in Vietnamese) is world-renowned for its spectacular seascape of limestone pillars complemented by its biodiversity.  

On arrival at Tuan Chau Marina, settle in on board your boat where a welcome drink awaits. Listen to a cruise briefing as the ship cruises through many stone islets, small beaches of the magnificent Ha Long Bay. Enjoy kayaking or sitting on a small bamboo boat rowed by the villagers for an authentic look into life in the bay. Return to the boat and participate in a cooking demonstration with the chef or simply relax on the sundeck before dinner. In the evening, try your hand at some night squid fishing or relax in your cabin.

Overnight on board.

Begin your day with a gentle Tai Chi demonstration that combines deep breathing and relaxation with slow and gentle movements. Coffee, tea, and pastries for breakfast are served in the dining room with a morning view of the bay's landscape. Enjoy breakfast in the fresh air of Ha Long Bay while the boat continues cruising around the bay passing the most beautiful and quiet areas. Visit one of the most magnificent caves in Ha Long bay with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, then return to your boat to cruise towards the wharf.

Relax on the sundeck or in the dining room enjoying the bay scenery while approaching the wharf. Enjoy a Brunch in the restaurant. Relax on the sundeck or in the restaurant enjoying the bay scenery as we approach the pier.

Note: 

• The Itinerary is subject to change without prior notice in case of adverse weather alerts or any emergency situation. 

• Use in-house English speaking tour guide on boat, no private tour guide escort.

Upon disembarkation, take the shuttle bus back to Ha Noi. Private transfer to the airport for the flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by the driver and take the private transfer without guide by private car to your hotel in Hoi An.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Morning excursion (08:30-13:00) – small group basis; guests sit behind driver

Today, let's do something unique and thrilling by discovering the hidden beauty and history of Hoi An from the back of a trendy vespa. Indulge in Hoi An's sights and sounds on this fascinating excursion to the town's hidden gems that is not listed out on any guidebook. Be amazed by the workmanship of the local homes, temples, and busy markets. Also, don't miss the trendy Rolving ChillHouse Coffee, a trendy café that will blow your mind. Leave the bustle of the city behind and let the charming alleys and quiet back roads lead you to the peaceful countryside, where you will take in the sights of green rice fields and serene waterways. Paddling a bamboo basket boat through a water coconut forest is a breathtaking experience that should not be missed. Wrap off this amazing excursion at an authentic restaurant to savor delicacies that truly capture the essence of the town.

Spend the afternoon at leisure. There are plenty of things to do in Hoi An: wander the Ancient town, order express tailormade clothes/shoes, discover local cuisine, relax in some riverside coffee shop, do some cycling, etc.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Free day at leisure. There are plenty of things to do in Hoi An: wander the Ancient town, order express tailormade clothes/shoes, discover local cuisine, relax in some riverside coffee shop, do some cycling, etc.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Transfer by private car without guide from your hotel to Da Nang Airport to take the early flight to Ho Chi Minh city. On arrival, you will be welcomed by the driver and transfer to your hotel in town.

Wind your way to one of the most significant historical sites of the city, the Reunification Palace which is former Residence of the Indochina Governor-General and later of the President of the Republic of Southern Vietnam until the down fall on April 30, 1975. Take a stroll around the Palace and admire the amazing work of its architecture while learning from your guide the untold stories connected to great changes in Ho Chi Minh City’s history. Continue to one of Saigon’s most historic landmarks, the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick edifice with twin spires, based on the original construction from Paris. Then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustav Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. Take a rest at a local hidden coffee shop, the house with secret tunnels where VC used as a place to hide and store weapons during Vietnam War, the staff will escort you to explore the secret tunnels after enjoying the traditional Vietnamese coffee and learning some untold stories behind.

Drive out to the bustling China town, locally known as Cho Lon, with its colourful atmosphere and mysterious temples. Visit the lively Thien Hau Temple which was built by the Cantonese congregation in the early 19th Century honor the Goddess of the sea. Admire the enormous burning incense-coils that never fail to impress while your guide will explain to you how the Chinese have immigrated to Vietnam and brought their cultural, religious and philosophical thought to their new home-country. Opt to enjoy a leisure walk through the narrow streets to admire the Chinese architecture through the local houses, pagodas and temples, explore the sights and sounds of China town. Return to downtown and make a stop at Ben Thanh Market to enjoy shopping and discover your bargaining power and come away with unusual items that will always remind you of this exciting day.

Overnight in HCMC.

The Mekong Delta, “the rice bowl of Vietnam”, is a highly fertile plain with its myriad waterways, lush and green paddy fields, tropical fruit orchards, and fish farms. Rural life here remains in many ways similar to how it was lived far back in the past. Geographically featured as the gateway to the Delta, Ben Tre is an ideal gem for travelers who are seeking a glimpse of agrarian river life. 

This morning, depart for a 2-hour drive from downtown Ho Chi Minh City to Ben Tre province. Take in the lush surroundings of rice paddies and fruit farms alongside the highway as you leave behind the high-energy city. Arriving at the waterfront pier, set off for a slow journey along the Mekong River on the charming Apricot boat, a newly tradition-inspired river barge that features the combination of modernity and tastefully traditional riverboat style. Gain a glimpse at countryside scenery and river life while enjoying seasonal tropical fruits and local specialties. Shore excursions include the home of a tropical fruit farmer. Have a walk around his orchard and observe how the local farmers harvest the fruits using the traditional method. Enjoy the opportunity to taste fresh coconuts and grapefruits while engaging in with local farmers for an overview of their daily farming tasks. Stop for a visit at the family-run business where you learn how the coconuts are processed and then enjoy country hospitality as you sip a cup of honey tea and taste the sweet flavor of coconut candy in a rustic yet cozy atmosphere. 

Tour a hidden island by traditional tuk-tuk or bicycle, passing through sleeping village, local cottage industries, canals, and fruitful orchards. Locals will often friendlily greet you with a hello or “xin chao” as you pass by. Relax while discovering more of the Delta from a small rowing sampan as you are paddled slowly through the maze of small canals covered by water coconut trees. Cap off your memorable trip by a tasty lunch with Mekong Delta specialties at the peaceful Apricot Riverside restaurant. After lunch, opt to relax in a hammock, enjoying the cool breeze from Mekong Delta before heading back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Notes: The cycling distance is 3-4km, depending on the physical ability and length your desire

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Leisure time until transfer to the airport to take the flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. You will be welcomed by the driver and take the private transfer to your hotel.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Today, set off to encounter the beautiful temples which are considered as Angkor’s jewel. Transfer from your hotel to Ta Prohm, perhaps most popularly known as The Tomb Raider temple. Built in the late 12th and early 13th Centuries as a Buddhist temple dedicated to the mother of Jayavarman VII, this beautiful temple is the photogenic and atmospheric combination of trees growing out of the ruins and the jungle surroundings. The magnificent tree roots have merged over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, emphasizing a ‘forgotten city’ feeling. 

Explore the ancient Angkor Thom, founded by King Jayavarman VII in the 12th Century and was one of the largest Khmer cities and remained the capital until the 17th Century. Get inside the reinforced city of Angkor Thom to admire the mysterious Bayon temple, crowned with the large number of serene faces sculpted on its towers. Also, take this chance to learn more about the intricate carvings of the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. Your temple exploration continues as you enter the gate of Angkor Wat, a vast temple complex originally constructed in the early 12th Century by King Suryavarman II. Originally constructed as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu for the Khmer Empire, it was gradually transformed into a Buddhist temple. Stroll through the intricate and astonishing bas-reliefs that represent hundreds of fine carvings of Apsara, Hindu mythology as well as key events in its narrative tradition. Be amazed by the sheer size of the temple and learn how the Khmer Empire prospered between the 9th and 13th Century. 

Tonight, enjoy your dinner while attending an Apsara dance show. The Apsara dance is a centuries-old Khmer dance that holds a significant place in Cambodian culture. According to Hindu mythology, Apsaras were beautiful female beings who descended from heaven to entertain gods and kings with their graceful dancing. Recognized by UNESCO as one of the world's great intangible cultural treasures, this traditional dance is meaningful in many ways, bridging the gaps between Cambodia's prominent religions, including Animism, Hinduism, and Buddhism.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

The charming town of Siem Reap is defined by the Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO listed site and Tonle Sap Lake where life is simple and slow with people living on the water, close to nature. For the resident here, life on the water is the greatest traditional culture that should be preserved before the rapid development of modern society. 

Today, head out to Siem Reap’s outskirts to visit one of the largest floating villages of Tonle Sap Lake where life is simple and slow with people living on the water, close to nature. For the resident here, life on the water is the greatest traditional culture that should be preserved before the rapid development of modern society. Located about 60 kilometers away from downtown Siem Reap, Kampong Kleang is home to over 20,000 people, many of whom have been living here for generations. Set off for a memorable cruise discovering a massive floating community. Take in the amazing views and colors of the floating houses and the flooded forest. You will get to know how the floating villagers earn their living by fishing the Tonle Sap. It is possible to make a stop along the waterway to have a chat with the local villagers to learn more about how this floating community lives, works, and trades. One thing to be sure, life on land is very different from life on the water!

Return to your hotel and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Your driver will pick you up from your hotel to the airport for your departure flight.