Day 1
day 1 Arrive Ho Chi Minh City
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon! As Vietnam's largest city, it serves as the vibrant economic hub and cultural influencer of the nation while cherishing its ancient traditions. Our guide warmly welcomes you with a signboard upon your arrival and assists with transferring your luggage to the hotel before commencing the tour.
Day 2
day 2 Ho Chi Minh Half Day City Tour
Today's itinerary includes a visit to the Reunification Palace, which served as the residence and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Afterward, pass by Notre Dame Cathedral, a significant landmark built between 1877 and 1883 using materials imported from France. Then, explore the Saigon Post Office, a well-preserved French colonial building that still functions as a post office today, boasting high ceilings, a large portrait of Uncle Ho, and exquisite architectural details. Finally, conclude our day with a trip to Ben Thanh Market, renowned for its wide array of goods, ranging from fruits and nuts to tourist souvenirs and great deals – making it a must-visit destination.
Day 3
day 3 Ho Chi Minh - Fly to Da Nang - Hoi An
Following breakfast, we proceed to the airport for our flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival, our local guide will welcome you and arrange your transfer to the hotel in Hoi An. Once checked in and refreshed, you'll have the afternoon to stroll through the ancient streets of Hoi An. These streets are adorned with the homes of Chinese traders and wooden houses transformed into restaurants, cafes, and shops for local artisans, craftsmen, and tailors. Discover the charm of the 16th-century Japanese Bridge, showcasing Hoi An's distinctive blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architectural styles. Hoi An stands as one of Vietnam's most tourist-friendly towns, offering a captivating display of cultural fusion.
Day 4
day 4 Hoi An - Ky Anh Tunnel - Vietnamese Rum Cocktail Masterclass
After breakfast, proceed to explore the Ky Anh Tunnel network situated beneath the village of Thach Tan, which is part of the larger Tam Thanh commune. While there are numerous entrances scattered throughout local villages, the primary access point is located in this village. Historically, the tunnel system stretched as far as 32 kilometers through the area, but the restored sections we'll visit are much shorter, totaling a few hundred meters.
In the afternoon, travel south of Hoi An along the road that parallels the coast to Vietnam's inaugural rum distillery, nestled next to a pristine stretch of sandy beach. This distillery is home to the country's premium rum brand, Sampan, crafted from freshly pressed sugarcane using centuries-old French distillation techniques. During a 2-hour rum cocktail workshop, you'll have the opportunity to sample three varieties of white rum and learn how to craft three types of cocktails under the guidance of an expert mixologist. Following the workshop, enjoy some leisure time on the secluded beach before returning to your hotel.
Day 5
day 5 Hoi An - Da Nang - Hue
Today, you will travel to Hue. Upon leaving Danang behind, we embark on a picturesque route traversing the Hai Van Pass, offering numerous chances to pause and relish the awe-inspiring vistas overlooking the sea and Lang Co Bay. The drive spans approximately three and a half hours until we arrive at the ancient Imperial Capital.
Day 6
day 6 Hue City Tour - Overnight Train to Hanoi
Commence your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a journey to explore Hue's historical treasures. Begin with a visit to The Imperial City, a testament to the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty's capital, where the marks of time and war reveal its once carefully planned architecture.
Following this, proceed to Thien Mu Pagoda, a renowned symbol of Hue. During your visit, the knowledgeable guide from Sens Asia will elucidate why Thien Mu holds such significance in Vietnamese culture. Adjacent to the pagoda lies serene gardens and an unexpected relic, the old Austin car that transported Thich Quang Duc to Saigon for his self-immolation in 1963.
Indulge in a delectable lunch featuring Hue's distinctive specialties at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, embark on a picturesque boat journey along the Perfume River to Thuy Bieu village, renowned for cultivating Thanh Tra fruit, a variety of small pomelo. Explore the village's garden houses, a unique aspect of Hue's countryside, and leisurely stroll through its tranquil streets. Engage with local residents, visit an ancient communal house, pass by ancestral temples, and perhaps participate in gardening activities or savor a cup of tea with the villagers.
Discover the art of incense making with a visit to a local family, gaining insight into the daily lives of hardworking locals who approach their tasks with joy and enthusiasm.
Conclude your day with a visit to King Tu Duc's Tomb, an expansive complex set around a serene lake, adorned with various memorials interconnected by pleasant pathways. Built between 1864-67, the tomb complex served as a retreat for King Tu Duc and his wives.
Cap off the day with a hike up a hill to enjoy the mesmerizing vista overlooking Vong Canh before returning to your hotel.
Tonight, our guide will escort you to the train station for an overnight journey to Hanoi.
Overnight on train (AC cabin of 4 berths, one berth per pax): Kindly be informed that the
cabins and the services on the train are very simple and far to reach your expected
standard. However, it is a really nice adventure and experience)
Day 7
day 7 Hanoi Arrival
Upon arriving in Hanoi early in the morning, kickstart your day with a bowl of noodles at a local restaurant. Following that, embark on a journey to explore several iconic landmarks. Begin with a visit to The Presidential Palace, formerly known as the Palace of the Governor-General of French Indochina, followed by Ho Chi Minh’s house-on-stilt and the nearby One Pillar Pagoda. Afterward, delve into the rich history of Vietnam by exploring the Temple of Literature, a sanctuary dedicated to Confucius, constructed in 1070 during the reign of Emperor Ly Thanh Tong.
Established in 1987 under the Vietnam Women's Union, the Women's Museum showcases over 25,000 artifacts and documents representing the diverse cultural heritage of Vietnam and the significant contributions of women to the nation's development. Next, journey to the city center to explore the Old Quarter, a vibrant hub that has been a commercial center since the 11th century when King Ly Thai To erected his palace in the vicinity. The Old Quarter, with its famed "36 Streets," was once delineated by the goods sold and craftsmen's guilds formed there, many of which still retain their historical names.
Cap off your day with a mesmerizing water puppet show, a unique Vietnamese art form dating back to the 11th century, originally performed on rice paddies. This quintessential Hanoi experience combines entertainment with cultural heritage, offering a glimpse into the country's rich artistic traditions.
Day 8
day 8 Hanoi – Halong Bay
Begin your journey from Hanoi in the morning, traversing the scenic Red River delta until we reach the coast shortly before noon. Here, board a meticulously crafted junk boat for an overnight excursion through the enchanting seascape of Ha Long Bay. Upon boarding, you will be treated to a delectable lunch featuring fresh seafood, all while surrounded by the mesmerizing limestone formations that characterize the area.
During the afternoon, venture into a less frequented region, allowing ourselves the luxury of pure relaxation. While the itinerary remains flexible, depending on the season and weather conditions, opportunities may arise to explore a cave, visit a floating village, or partake in kayaking adventures during these two days. As the day draws to a close, we gather on the sundeck to witness the breathtaking sunset over this magical seascape. Later in the evening, guests have the option to enjoy an aperitif or participate in a cooking demonstration before dinner.
Note: Cruise itinerary and schedule are subject to change due to weather, tide levels and operating conditions. Swimming or kayaking excursions may be cancelled due to poor weather.
Day 9
day 9 Halong Bay - Hanoi - Fly to Siem Reap
Begin your day with an early Tai Chi session, accompanied by the serving of tea and coffee as the sun rises over the picturesque seascape. Following this tranquil start, we'll further explore the bay. Upon returning to the boat, guests will check out of their cabins and savor a light brunch while cruising back to the pier. Upon disembarking, we'll transfer back to Hanoi. Our guide and driver will be waiting to escort you directly to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, our local guide will greet you and provide a brief transfer to your hotel in Siem Reap.
Day 10
day 10 Visit Angkor Wat - Ta Prohm - Angkor Thom - APOPO Visitor Center
Today's itinerary is dedicated to exploring the essential wonders of Angkor temples. Our first stop is Angkor Wat, renowned as the most famous and well-preserved temple within the Angkor complex. This colossal structure comprises three tiers crowned by five lotus-like towers, soaring impressively 65 meters from the ground.
Following Angkor Wat, we'll venture to Angkor Thom, the ancient walled city which served as the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire during Jayavarman VII's reign. Here, we'll explore the 12th-century masterpiece, including Bayon Temple, Baphuon, the royal enclosure, and the Terraces of the Elephants and the Leper King.
A lunch break will be arranged at a local restaurant, with expenses covered individually. Our journey continues to Ta Prohm Temple, a unique site left largely untouched since its rediscovery, adorned with captivating trees intertwined with its ancient ruins, creating a photogenic and atmospheric maze.
In the afternoon, we'll visit the APOPO visitor center, a remarkable organization dedicated to landmine clearing, employing Hero Rats to detect deadly explosives.
Our return to the hotel is scheduled for late afternoon, allowing leisure time for personal enjoyment for the remainder of the day.
Note: Appropriate attire when visiting Angkor temples is long pants (covering the knee) and shirts that cover shoulders. Skirts, small shorts, tank tops, and other items of revealing clothing are not allowed within temple grounds. Visitors can and are frequently turned away from temples when wearing revealing clothing.
Day 11
day 11 Community Village - Kampong Khleang Floating Village
Following breakfast, engage in an immersive experience within the traditional Khmer village of Banteay Cheure. This offers a unique opportunity to participate alongside locals in planting young trees, thereby supporting the community. Subsequently, explore the village and acquire insights into crafting Kar Larn (sticky rice cooked in bamboo), creating rattan handcrafted items, and engaging in small-scale farming for groceries and vegetables.
Later, partake in the preparation of a typical lunch with a local family, fostering a sense of camaraderie through shared dining.
In the afternoon, venture to Kampong Khleang, renowned as a "floating village," where over 20,000 residents dwell in stilt-houses. Depending on the season and water levels, these structures may rise up to ten meters above the water or be entirely submerged, creating an illusion of floating houses. Welcomed by the warm hospitality of the locals, immerse yourself in Cambodia's countryside culture and traditional family lifestyle.
Note: From February to August/September the water level of the Tonle Sap Lake is very low. It’s muddy and the boat can get stuck. If clients are still keen on having a boat trip on the lake we’ll change to Chong Kneas floating village instead of Kompong Kleang where the condition is a little bit better for the boat trip.
Day 12
day 12 Siem Reap Departure
The day is free at your leisure until transfer to Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport for your departure flight. We wish you a pleasant flight!
