Essential Vietnam: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An & Ho Chi Minh for Titu, Bullie, Teena, Mudit, Annu, and Tribhuvan

-Welcome to Hanoi, a city where ancient history seamlessly blends with modern vitality. Upon arrival, you'll be warmly greeted by your guide, followed by a group transfer to your accommodation.

-In the afternoon, you’ll get to know Hanoi’s charms on a half-day tour with your guide. Visit historic sites, such as the Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Stilt House, and iconic One Pillar Pagoda.

-Experience a traditional water puppet performance. This northern tradition, dating back nearly a thousand years, is performed alongside traditional Vietnamese music.

-For dinner, dive straight into Hanoi’s culinary scene around the Old Quarter with a visit to a bustling street market. We eat as we go, trying seasonal fruits and sampling a banh mi with your choice of fillings – one of the most beloved combos is pate, ham, sliced cucumber, and chili sauce. After exploring the market, walk through the maze of bustling streets that make up Hanoi’s Old Quarter, tempting your tastebuds with the famed snacks and bites of the region. Your guide will then take you to one of Hanoi’s best-kept secrets – a hidden café with stunning views over the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake.

-Rise and shine to your first full day in Vietnam. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before we set out on a picturesque journey to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its spectacular seascape of limestone pillars. The drive from Hanoi offers panoramic views of the Vietnamese countryside, with verdant rice paddies unfolding into the distance, providing a tranquil prelude to the adventure ahead.

-Upon arrival at the harbor, you’ll board your vessel, setting the stage for a luxurious 24-hour escape amidst the bay's serene beauty. Check into your comfortable accommodations and prepare for a culinary treat with a sumptuous seafood lunch served on deck, allowing you to dine with an extraordinary view of towering karsts and crystalline waters.

-The afternoon offers a plethora of activities; explore the majestic rock formations, navigate through hidden caves with a kayak, or simply relax and swim in the designated zones, respecting the local conservation rules. Each moment offers a chance to immerse yourself in the bay’s mystical charm.

-As evening descends, relish a beautifully prepared dinner onboard while the sunset swathes the sky in shades of pink and orange, creating an enchanting atmosphere that complements the day's end perfectly.

-Wake up to the ethereal beauty of Ha Long Bay as the morning light illuminates your floating retreat. Kick off your day with a nourishing breakfast on board, followed by an opportunity to engage in calming Tai Chi on the deck or participate in other onboard activities, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and invigoration.

-Savor a traditional Vietnamese lunch as you cruise back to the harbor, marking the end of your maritime adventure.

-Disembark at Ha Long cruise port and board a private minibus for your return journey to Hanoi.

-From Hanoi, we will fly south to Danang, then drive on to Hoi An and check into our accommodations in the evening. The rest of the evening is yours to spend as you wish. Perhaps make the most of the hotel's fabulous pool, or get some extra rest after our afternoon of travel.

-Enjoy a fresh breakfast at your hotel before meeting your guide for a fascinating walking tour through this enchanting town. Hoi An captivates with its stunning architecture and unique blend of cultural influences. Wander through streets lined with charming, low tiled houses that create a peaceful ambiance.

-Your tour starts at a historically significant house, once the residence of a prominent trader, richly decorated and well-preserved. You'll then cross the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and visit a vibrant Chinese assembly hall. The journey continues with a stop at a local museum where you'll dive deeper into the rich tapestry of Hoi An's history. Along the way, indulge in a traditional Vietnamese coffee, a perfect refreshment as you explore.

-After your tour, the rest of the day is yours to further explore the quaint streets and hidden gems of Hoi An at your own pace. You’ll find a plethora of dining options that reflect its diverse cultural heritage. You might enjoy lunch at a riverside cafe, trying local specialties like 'Cao Lau' (a unique type of noodle dish) or 'Banh Bao Banh Vac' (White Rose Dumplings). For dinner, explore the night market where you can sample a variety of street food or choose a riverfront restaurant for a more serene setting.

-Tonight, enjoy a Teh Dar Show of Lune Production, a spectacular presentation of the nation's culture.

-It’s a free day in Hoi An, which means you can create the schedule of your dreams. See where the day takes you, or book an optional activity, such as a tour of My Son Cham, a cooking class with a local chef, an An Bang Beach biking excursion with picnic lunch, or a Hoi An food adventure. No matter what you choose to do - enjoy!

-Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before checking out of your current hotel. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

-Upon arrival, another transfer will take you into the bustling heart of the city, where your adventure continues. Embark on a guided bus tour of Ho Chi Minh City's most iconic landmarks. The tour includes stops at the historic Reunification Palace, the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral, and the elegant Opera House, each site offering a unique glimpse into the city's rich history and culture.

-After exploring these architectural marvels, visit the War Remnants Museum, which provides a profound insight into the Vietnam War's impact through its compelling exhibits. Following your museum visit, grab lunch on your own and check into your hotel.

-Relax and rest after a whirlwind day, spending the evening at leisure. Venture out on your own or consider booking an optional Saigon street food tour to dig into the city’s culinary world with a local guide. (See add-ons for pricing and more information.)

-It’s your last full day in Vietnam, and we want to ensure it’s the best one yet! That’s why after breakfast, we’re leaving the city and trading the hustle and bustle for the Mekong Delta. First, we'll stop at the Cu Chi Tunnels for a history lesson.

-The adventure begins with a transfer to the pier where a private boat awaits to ferry you to My Tho. Here, you'll visit enchanting coconut gardens and stop at a local home to sample an array of tropical fruits and homemade coconut jams, offering a taste of the local produce.

-Next, embark on a serene sampan ride, gliding through narrow waterways lined with coconut trees, an iconic scene of the Mekong Delta. Continue your exploration with a tuk-tuk tour around the local villages, where you'll gain insights into rural life and the coconut-based industries, including the production of coconut candy.

-For lunch, indulge in the flavors of the Delta at a local restaurant, enjoying regional dishes such as the famous elephant ear fish – a must-try delicacy. After, cruise along the major waterways back to the boat pier, then board a bus for your return journey to Ho Chi Minh City.

-After we arrive back in the city, one final night of excitement awaits to conquer however you please.

-After enjoying one final breakfast at your hotel, you'll check out and join a group transfer to the airport. This marks the conclusion of your journey, wrapping up what we hope was a memorable exploration filled with unique experiences. Safe travels!