16 DAYS – VIETNAM BOUTIQUE

Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport, welcome by our guide and transfer to your hotel. Hanoi or “River-bound City” as its name literally means is Vietnam’s capital with a thousand-year-old history dating back to 1010. The city’s fascinating beauty which is characterized by unique cultural relics, ancient streets of antique houses, elegant French colonial buildings, tree-lined boulevards and romantic lakes has made it one of the most charming cities of Asia. Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Hanoi

Morning, start a full day city tour beginning with Ho Chi Minh Complex which features the life of Ho Chi Minh, the nation’s founder. At the complex, visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum where the nation’s founder’s body is preserved (closed on Monday, Friday and through October - November) and the rural style house on stilts where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked. Stop by one of Hanoi’s icons, the One Pillar Pagoda, built in the 11th Century in dedication to Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara or Buddha of Compassion and reminiscent of a lotus blossom rising from a pond. Continue to the Temple of Literature, known as the first university of Vietnam built in 1070 by the Ly Dynasty to honor Confucius, sages and outstanding Vietnamese scholars. Afternoon, continue the tour to one of the following museums of choice namely the Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum of Vietnamese, the Museum of Revolution, the Museum of Military History and the Museum of Ethnology. Go to Hoan Kiem Lake, the center point of Hanoi whose name “The Return Sword Lake” originated from a legend of a sacred sword and home to a rare endangered giant turtle species and visit Ngoc Son Temple on the lake. Next, take a one-hour cycle tour of the Old Quarter of Hanoi with its ancient streets representing traditional trades from the past. Finish the tour at the Thang Long Opera Theatre with a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Hanoi

In the morning, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi and take you on a scenic drive to Ninh Binh. First, you will visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital city of the Dinh Dynasty. Here, you can explore the fascinating history and architecture of this historical site. Afternoon, you will embark on an amazing boat trip to visit Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning natural beauty and breathtaking views. As you float along the river, you will pass through a series of caves and marvel at the towering limestone cliffs. In the late afternoon, you will check-in to your hotel in Ninh Binh and enjoy a well-deserved rest. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Ninh Binh

Morning, transfer to visit Bai Dinh Pagoda and Van Long Nature Reserve. Bai Dinh pagoda is one of the largest pagodas in Southeast Asia. Marvel at its grandeur and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of this sacred place. Continue your exploration with a boat ride in the enchanting Van Long Nature Reserve. As you glide along the serene waters, keep your eyes peeled for a chance to witness the mesmerizing beauty of the white-shorts langurs, a rare primate species that calls this reserve home. After indulging in the natural splendor of Van Long, recharge with a delicious lunch before driving back to Hanoi. On arrival, check back into your hotel and relax Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Hanoi

Morning, departure from your Hanoi hotel to Bac Ha. Enjoy a scenic 5-hour drive in your private car to Bac Ha, with a delicious lunch at a local restaurant along the way. Upon arrival, check-in to a cozy home-stay at a local house and take a short rest. Embark on a gentle trek to Ban Pho village, where you'll discover the fascinating culture and daily life of the Flower H'mong people. Marvel at the terraced fields and immerse yourself in the rural countryside. Return to the home-stay for a delightful hosted dinner and spend a comfortable night. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Bac Ha

Get ready to explore a vibrant hill tribe market in the area (Depending on the day: Bac Ha market on Sundays, Coc Ly market on Tuesdays, or Can Cau market on Saturdays). Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and encounter various ethnic minority groups like Flower Hmong, Phu La, Yao, Tay, Nung, and more. Discover an array of local products, from vibrant embroidery to unique handicrafts and everyday essentials. Don't miss the animal markets, where you can witness the trading and bartering of animals like dogs, pigs, cows, and buffaloes. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic 3-hour drive to Sapa town, with a quick stop at the Vietnam-China border gate for a glimpse of China and some memorable photos. Check-in at the hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure. Relax and make the most of your time in this enchanting town. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Sapa

Morning, transfer you to the starting point of our trek in Y Linh Ho village, located in the breathtaking Muong Hoa Valley. As we descend, you'll be captivated by the stunning rice terraces that adorn the landscape, creating a truly picturesque setting. Crossing the river on a charming suspension bridge, we'll continue our trek uphill on a concrete path, providing an invigorating challenge and rewarding you with panoramic views of the valley. Our afternoon trek concludes in Lao Chai village, where our private vehicle will be waiting for you. We'll then embark on a scenic drive to enjoy a delicious lunch. Afterward, we'll make our journey back to Hanoi, where you'll check back into the same hotel. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Hanoi

Morning pickup at 8:00 AM from your hotel for transfer to Ha Long Bay, which is about 160 km or 3.5-hour drive away. On the way, you will see some rural areas of the Red River Delta with plenty of chances to take photos of Vietnamese farmers working in paddy fields. Stop half way to visit a handicraft workshop of fine clothes and embroidered paintings. Arrive in Ha Long City at 11:30 AM and check in aboard the booked junk right after the welcome drink is served. Start cruising while having lunch on board and enjoy the mighty bay view. Ha Long Bay meaning Descending Dragon Bay in Vietnamese as legend has it that it was where a holy dragon landed down from sky. The bay, famous as one of the world’s wonders and heritage sites whose formation dates back 500 million years, consists of around 2,000 karst islands and islets scattered over an area of 1,553 km2. The bay cruise will continue with up close sighting of Dinh Huong Island, Ga Choi Island, Dog Island, Sail Island, a visit to Sung Sot Cave and swimming stop at Titov Beach. Relax to enjoy the bay view at sunset, have dinner after, go fishing at 09:00 PM and spend a night on board. Meals: Breakfast / Lunch/ Dinner Accommodation: overnight on cruises in Ha Long Bay

Wake up at 06:30 AM and refresh your body and mind with a Tai Chi exercise on the sundeck. Tai Chi is an ancient internal martial art often practiced in soft and gracefully slow moves to enhance internal harmony and vitality. Have tea and coffee onboard before proceeding to Titov Islet or SoiSim Island to trek and swim. Check out at 09:30, have a buffet brunch while cruising back to shore. Disembark at 11:00 AM to transfer to Hanoi for airport for flight to Da Nang Arrive Da Nang, tour guide pick up and transfer you to hotel for check in and relax Meals: Brunch Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Hoi An

Morning, you will get picked up and head to the boat dock after breakfast for a unique experience in a fishing village. You'll have the opportunity to see and learn about the life of the fishing community, and take a short ride in a basket boat, cycle through the countryside along quiet country roads lined with fields of rice, coconut, and corn. Return to Hoi An town and spend the afternoon with your local guide for a delightful excursion to Hoi An! Discover the charm of this well-preserved trading port as we explore its historic buildings, cultural exchanges, and local lifestyle. Marvel at the ancient Cam Pho communal house and iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Immerse yourself in the authentic Quan Thang ancient house and vibrant Fujian Assembly Hall. Visit the bustling central market, where you'll witness the daily life of locals and find an array of delicious food. But that's not all! As a special highlight, you'll also have the unique opportunity to learn the art of making traditional lanterns. Under the guidance of enthusiastic craftsmen, you'll experience each stage of lantern-making, from bending the frame to completing your very own lantern. After this unforgettable experience, return to your hotel to end the busy day! Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Hoi An

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, embark on a captivating journey to the My Son Holy Land in the morning. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, just an hour away from Hoi An, was once the heart of the Champa Kingdom. Explore the ancient Hindu temple ruins, dating back to the 4th century AD, amidst stunning surroundings. The afternoon is YOURS to indulge in the charms of Hoi An. Whether you prefer relaxing on the beautiful beach, immersing yourself in the enchanting lantern-lit streets, shopping for tailor-made clothing and shoes, taking a boat trip, joining a cooking class, or exploring the town on a cycling tour, Hoi An offers a plethora of options. Don't miss the chance to savor the local cuisine, known for its delectable flavors and affordable prices. Enjoy this leisure time to discover Hoi An at your own pace and create lasting memories. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Hoi An

Morning, transfer to the airport in Da Nang for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, you will be met by a driver and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the city on your own, relax at your hotel, or take an optional motorbike tour in the evening Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh

Morning, head to Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City. These tunnels were used by the Vietnam Soldiers during the American War and are a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the Vietnamese people. Explore the tunnels and learn about the history of the war and the role of the tunnels in the conflict. In the afternoon, visit Ho Chi Minh City's top attractions including Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office, War Remnants Museum, and the Reunification Palace, formerly known as the Presidential Palace of South Vietnam. End your day with a memorable experience by admiring the spectacular sunset view from the top of the Bitexco Tower, the tallest building in Vietnam. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh

On this day, you will leave Ho Chi Minh City and head to the Mekong Delta, a region famous for its scenic beauty and traditional way of life. Your first stop is Ben Tre, a province known for its coconut groves and cottage industries. Enjoy a 2-hour drive through the countryside and soak in the stunning scenery of rural Vietnam. Upon arrival in Ben Tre, you will embark on a motorboat ride along narrow canals, where you will have the chance to observe locals making traditional handicrafts like coconut candies. Take a ride on a motor cart or join a cycling tour to explore the coconut forests, rice fields, and vegetable gardens. After lunch, continue your journey with a relaxing sampan boat ride, drifting along a small canal lined with nipa palm trees. You will arrive in Can Tho city, the Mekong Delta's capital city, late in the afternoon. Spend the night here and enjoy the city's unique blend of modern amenities and traditional culture. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Can Tho

Start your day early at 6:30 AM with a boat trip to the Cai Rang floating market. While the market may not be as busy as it once was, it still offers a unique and interesting experience. After exploring the market, we'll take a long cruise to Phong Dien, followed by a walk on a quiet country road to get a closer look at local life in the area. Next, we'll hop in our private vehicle and head to Vinh Long to visit the ancient Phu Ly Pagoda. Built in 1672, this Khmer pagoda is a stunning blend of Indian, Thai, and Cambodian architecture. After our visit, we'll continue our journey through the picturesque rice fields of Ben Luc before returning to Ho Chi Minh City late in the afternoon. The remainder of the day is on your own. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Can Tho

Morning, free until transfer to the airport for departure flight