Vietnam from Country to Coast

Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be welcomed at the immigration area by a representative holding a signboard with your name. They will guide you through the immigration formalities. After completing these procedures, our representative will accompany you to the baggage claim for collecting your luggage and then escort you to the exit gate to meet your Travel Expert. You will be transferred to the Apricot Hotel in Hanoi, where you will stay for the next two nights.

Explore Hanoi's vibrant streets starting at the iconic Opera House, offering a potential sneak peek inside with your Travel Expert. Wander south to discover the Hanoi University of Medicine and Pasteur Park, followed by a visit to Quan Thanh Temple and the Art Deco-influenced Cua Bac Church. Enjoy a romantic stroll on Phan Dinh Phung Street and savour a local lunch. Explore historical landmarks like Long Bien Bridge before a 20-minute cyclo ride through the Old Quarter. In the evening, indulge in a culinary adventure, sampling Banh Cuon and barbecue specialties. End the night at a hidden café with picturesque views, sipping on egg coffee or a cold beer.

Embark on a captivating journey from Hanoi to Halong City, where a 2.5-hour drive leads you to the Paradise Elegance cruise. After a warm welcome, savor lunch at Le Marin Restaurant with breathtaking Halong Bay views. Explore Tung Sau pearl farm, visit Titov Island, and partake in sunset activities, including Happy Hour and a Vietnamese cooking class. Indulge in a Western set dinner and evening delights at Le Marin restaurant and Piano Lounge. Enjoy live music, squid fishing, and cabin movies, creating a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment on the picturesque waters of Halong Bay. Activities are subject to availability and weather conditions.

Commence the day with a revitalizing Tai Chi session at L'Odyssée Sundeck and a light breakfast at Le Marin Restaurant. Explore the enchanting Sung Sot Cave, boasting intricate stalactites, stalagmites, and a panoramic viewpoint. During breakfast, witness Thien Cung, Dau Go Cave, and the Fighting Cock Islet. Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina and commence a 175km journey by car to Ninh Binh. After a late lunch, embark on a serene bicycle ride, discovering the tranquil beauty of limestone karst mountains and the captivating Bich Dong Pagoda. Conclude the day at the Tam Coc Garden hotel, where you will stay overnight.

After breakfast, head out for a day of captivating exploration, starting with a serene rowing boat journey to the hidden Thien Ha Cave, a lesser-known gem discovered in 2007. This tranquil alternative to Tam Coc boasts a 200m walk and a 500m boat ride through an awe-inspiring cave adorned with illuminated stalactites and stalagmites. Bid farewell to local oarsmen and venture west to Pu Luong, a Nature Reserve with breathtaking landscapes. Arriving at Pu Luong Retreat, indulge in a late lunch and take advantage of free time to explore the panoramic views. Interact with locals, witnessing daily life, farmland, and rice fields, concluding with a delightful dinner.

Embark on a leisurely morning walk through the stunning rice terraces in front of the Retreat, descending into the picturesque valley. Wander along paths veiled in vegetation, gradually revealing the charming Uoi village nestled against a towering mountain. Capture the breathtaking panorama of the village from above. Descend further to a local home for a brief rest, followed by a cycling adventure around Lan village. Explore the scenic landscapes, crossing bridges and traversing rice paddies. Discover traditional brocade weaving at a local family if time allows. Conclude the day at Hieu Village, relishing the Hieu waterfall, a unique reserve gem. Return to Pu Luong Retreat for a delightful dinner.

Beginning with an early breakfast at the retreat, today you will explore Pu Luong. A short ride takes you to Dong Dieng village, nestled in the most picturesque valley of Pu Luong, where you'll be captivated by the beauty of terrace rice fields and majestic mountains. Venture onto a scenic trail winding through the landscape, unveiling panoramic views of rice fields and the village. Along the way, encounter local homes, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the lifestyle and culture of the residents. In the mid-morning, check out from the retreat and proceed to the airport for your afternoon flight to Hue. Upon arrival, transfer to Azerai La Residence Hue, where you'll check in and unwind.

This morning after breakfast, start with a short drive to the Huyen Tran Princess Temple. Immerse yourself in serene surroundings, featuring gardens and panoramic views along the Perfume River. Follow residential roads to Tu Hieu Pagoda, a Zen temple with ornamental gardens, offering a peaceful ambiance and the opportunity to witness monks chanting. In the afternoon, traverse small roads to Ho Quyen (Tiger Arena), explore the Long Chau Temple, and visit the historic Bao Quoc Pagoda. Engage with a senior monk for deeper insights into Zen Buddhism. After lunch, a mid-afternoon Perfume River cruise, and a late afternoon visit to Gia Long's tomb. Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Today is all about your scenic journey over the Pass of the Clouds, setting the tone for your day of exploration in Hoi An. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, positioned 30KM south of Da Nang, captivates with its timeless charm and pedestrian-friendly streets. On foot, wander through backstreets adorned with preserved merchant houses, temples, and lively markets. Discover iconic landmarks like the 400-year-old Japanese Bridge and the bustling Thu Bon River waterfront, where colourful fishing boats sway. A visit to Hoi An's market unveils local delicacies like Banh It la Gai or Banh Dau Xanh. Take a boat along the Thu Bon River, offering a refreshing perspective on Hoi An's enchanting landscape.

After a hotel breakfast, immerse yourself in a culinary journey in Hoi An, beginning with an exploration of Tra Que Village. Witness the meticulous farming practices of locals, engage in hands-on activities, and gather fresh produce for an upcoming cooking class. The bicycle tour leads through shaded neighborhoods, unveiling cultural insights at An My hamlet's Communal House and a vibrant local market. Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Thu Bon River, culminating in a cooking class at the renowned school. Under the guidance of a local chef, prepare regional delicacies using freshly harvested ingredients. Return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Indulge in a leisure day in Hoi An, exploring its shopper's haven independently. The city, with its paintings, silk fabrics, ceramics, lanterns, and tailor-made clothing, invites you to immerse yourself in its vibrant markets. Discover the charm of Hoi An's streets, a paradise for shoppers and enthusiasts of Vietnamese craftsmanship. Overnight at Hotel Royal Hoi An in a Deluxe room.

After a delicious breakfast, board the Vietage express train to Quy Nhon, an exclusive journey through Central Vietnam's landscapes. The elegant rail car, limited to 12 passengers, promises a unique experience. Traverse plains, seaside, and mountains on the way to Dieu Tri station in Quy Nhon. Upon arrival, unwind at Anantara Quy Nhon Villas in an Ocean View Pool Villa, where you will stay the next three nights, enjoying an evening at leisure.

Savor two blissful days at Anantara Quy Nhon Villas, starting with a delicious breakfast. Immerse yourself in the luxurious amenities of the resort, featuring an Ocean View Pool Villa for an elevated experience. Enjoy the serene surroundings, whether it's a rejuvenating dip in the pool, a tranquil stroll along the beach, or indulging in world-class spa treatments. Relish the freedom to craft your itinerary—be it a leisurely day by the pool, exploring local attractions, or simply basking in the beauty of Quy Nhon. These days are yours to create unforgettable moments at your own pace.

Commence the day with a delightful breakfast before bidding farewell to the tranquillity of Quy Nhon. Embark on a direct flight to the vibrant metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, tailored to your energy levels, opt for a relaxed start to the day. Your knowledgeable Travel Expert accompanies you through the heart of the city, offering insights into iconic landmarks such as the People’s Committee building, the grand Opera House, and the bustling shopping districts of Dong Khoi and Nguyen Hue Boulevard. Immerse yourself in the dynamic ambiance of this bustling city.

After breakfast, explore Ho Chi Minh City, starting with an early visit to the bustling flower market in District 10. Explore the serene Hoi Quan Quang Trieu Temple, where spiral incense creates an atmosphere of tranquillity. Journey to Tan Dinh Market, a historic locale known for its high-quality products, retaining its original French-built charm. Delve into the poignant history of the Fall of Saigon at the U.S. Government evacuation site and enjoy a hidden gem for lunch. In the afternoon, discover the largest Mahayana pagoda in Phu Nhuan district, blending Japanese influence with Vietnamese architecture. Wander through local neighbourhoods, uncovering hidden cafes, schools, police stations, and more.

Depart Ho Chi Minh City for the riverine charm of Cai Be. A 2.5-hour road trip unveils this idyllic town, offering the chance to witness a noon Cao Dai ceremony, revealing the spiritual nuances of this unique religion. Explore the smaller Cao Dai Temple, an intriguing offshoot of Tay Ninh's main temple. Boarding a motorized sampan, we navigate the Mekong's picturesque landscapes, rich with fruit orchards. Indulge in tropical flavours during lunch at a local plantation, delving into village life before a leisurely cruise to Vinh Long. Conclude the day with a car transfer to the serene surroundings of Azerai Can Tho Resort's Garden room, where you will stay two nights.

Awaken to sunrise over the Mekong Delta, a captivating spectacle as you embark on a sampan ride into the heart of the bustling Cai Rang floating market. Explore the serene Ong Pagoda, a spiritual sanctuary for the Chinese community since 1894, adorned with massive incense coils that hang gracefully from the ceiling. Continue your cultural journey with visits to a Khmer pagoda and the Binh Thuy Ancient House, a rare gem combining European and Asian architectural influences, dating back to 1870. Indulge in a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, savouring the rich flavours amidst historical surroundings. The afternoon is yours to relax at your leisure.

On your final day in Vietnam, relish a satisfying breakfast, bidding farewell to the enchanting surroundings of Can Tho. Brace yourself for a scenic return journey back to the vibrant heart of Ho Chi Minh City for your flight home.