Detailed
Itinerary
Hoan Kiem Lake |
Day 1, Arrive Hanoi
A thousand year-old city, Hanoi was also the former French capital of Indochine, reflected in it's dominant architecture on the tree-line boulevards.
Now the political and cultural center of Vietnam, Hanoi holds guard of the country's
ideals while Saigon has rushed towards capitalism.
Afternoon strolling the stoic atmosphere along Hoan Kiem Lake and ancient,
yet lively Old Quarter. Accommodation
at renowned Sofitel Metropole. |
Day 2, Hanoi
Rise at dawn to witness traditional exercise rituals on Hoan Kiem Lake and explore the central market. After, return to hotel for breakfast then onto explore more of the vibrant Old Quarter, now in full preparation for the lunar new year, the streets chocked with flowers, kumquat trees and lanterns. Pausing for a visit in a private family home in a traditional "tube house." In the evening, attend the traditional Water Puppets Theater, a performance art unique to Vietnam. |
Old Quarter Tet Market |
Halong Bay |
Days 3 & 4, Halong Bay
Halong Bay is the geographic highlight of Vietnam if not Southeast Asia. The UNESCO World Heritage site is dotted with hundreds of towering limestone islands, creating a karst wonderland for boating, kayaking and swimming.
As well as exploring the far reaches of the bay, freshly prepared seafood meals will be a highlight. Exploration of the bay and overnight on luxury junk with optional kayaking (the calm waters are perfect for families and beginners). |
Day 5, Hue
After the north, travel to the central coast, arriving in the ancient Imperial Capital of Vietnam. Set on the tranquil Perfume River, Hue is arguably Vietnam's most pleasant and picturesque city. While Saigon and to a lesser extent, Hanoi, have seen heavy growth in the last decade, Hue remains largely untouched and tranquil.
In the morning, a pleasant dragon boat ride upstream towards the triangle of the Perfume river to the Con Hen island to visit local homes, cottage industries and the peaceful Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue's most preserved religious temple standing high on the Perfume riverbank. In the afternoon, exploration of the Forbidden Purple city before visiting the imposing Imperial Citadel, famous from images during the 1968 Tet Offensive. Accommodation at the French Sofitel La Residence on the river. |
Old Quarter Tet Market |
Day 6, Hue
A
succession of Nguyen Dynasty Emperors built grand tombs on a wide scale, scattering
them around the hills surrounding Hue. We will see two wonderful examples of Imperial
architecture, traveling from our restored hotel on the riverfront through Hue's
beautiful countryside to the majestic Khai
Dinh and Tu Duc Royal Tombs. Afternoon free to explore the giant, bustling riverfront market and
other attractions, or rest up for our next day's journey. Evening, enjoy royal dinner at the former royal library Palace of An Dinh. |
Dong Ba Market in Hue
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Verdant Fields |
Day 7, Hoi An
Morning
departure, stopping en route at picturesque Lang Co Lagoon over the
Hai Van Pass to Danang, Vietnam's geographical boundary
between north and south. Upon arrival in Danang, visit the Cham Museum, with artifacts from the Kingdom of Champa, a civilization that ruled central Vietnam from
the 2nd to 14th century. Afterwards, stop to visit Marble mountain and China Beach, a former US Marine Corps "R&R" spot. Dinner in Hoi An along the serene riverfront. Accommodation at the Victoria Resort. |
Day 8, Hoi An
Today, celebrating Tet in Hoi An. The narrow streets of Hoi An are lined with buildings representing
a mix of architectural styles, some of which are not seen anywhere else in Vietnam today,
leaving you with the feeling that you have truly traveled back in time. Enjoy
a walking tour of this historic town to visit some of the highlights including
the Temples of Phuc Kien and Quang Dong, and the 16th century Japanese Covered
Bridge. Lunch of traditional Cao Lao Soup. Traditional Tet
activities will be in full swing. At sunset, cruising on the Thu Bon River to the Red Bridge Restaurant, serving local specialties. |
Matriarch at Tet market
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Saigon Skyline |
Day 9, Hoi An to Saigon
After breakfast, mid-morning flight to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), arriving in the economic hub of Vietnam and Southeast Asia's most rapidly-growing city.
Afternoon exploration of Saigon's central district sights and shops, including the colonial-era Art Deco Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, Reunification Palace and bustling Ben Thanh Market.
In the evening, venturing out onto Saigon's pulsating boulevards with everyone out enjoying Tet in full swing. Overnight at the Caravelle Hotel with tower views overlooking the opera theater.
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Day 10, Saigon
Saigon.
City tour of the vibrant, untouristed Cholon's Bin Tay market,
the Saigon River front and other several historical sites, including colonial-era post office. Afternoon exploration of local artist studios and galleries featured in our Arts Tour, including a lacquerware factory or last-minute shopping. Farewell dinner at one of Saigon's finest restaurants.
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Saigon's Colonial-era Hotel de Ville |
Bayon |
Day 11 , Depart Saigon
Transfer to the airport for departure flight or optional extension to the Temples of Angkor in neighboring Cambodia (one-hour flight). After checking into hotel, we begin exploring the magnificent temples of Angkor including the enormous Angkor Wat, the south gate of Angkor Thom and the gigantic stone faces of the Bayon (left).
The day concludes with a panoramic view of the area and dramatic sunset from the summit overlooking Angkor Wat. Accommodation at the Raffles Grand d'Angkor or Angkor Village. |
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