Classic Vietnam

The southern Mekong Delta, a lush region shaped by the Mekong River, is a sprawling area of fertile land and extensive waterways. Often referred to as the ‘Rice Bowl,’ it showcases a picturesque landscape dotted with quaint villages, rice fields, and fruit orchards. Drive to Ben Tre, renowned for its coconut industry. Locals here depend on coconuts, turning them into fibres, flesh, milk, and oil, while the shells are used to manufacture activated charcoal. A visit to a traditional brick kiln reveals the age-old methods of brickmaking. From there, a sampan ride on the Mekong River offers a peaceful view of fishing boats and slow-moving cargo vessels. Travel along village paths in a ‘Xe Lam,’ a traditional vehicle from the 1960s, or by bicycle, visiting a local garden and workshop to learn about the making of coconut candy and fiery rice wine, sampling these local delights. Honey tea and tropical fruits from the Delta offer a refreshing treat. One of the day’s highlights is gliding through a tranquil creek lined with water coconut palms in a rowing boat and strolling through tropical fruit orchards, observing daily local life. Later, at a small riverside restaurant, savour a lunch of Delta specialities before continuing to My Tho, from where your driver will take you back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Accommodations: Deluxe - New World Saigon Hotel | Premium - Eden Star Saigon Hotel | Superior - Northern Charm Hotel
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch

Travel by road from Hoi An to My Son Sanctuary, set 45 km (28 mi.) away in a lush valley surrounded by forested hills. Once the spiritual and cultural heart of the Champa Kingdom, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a group of Hindu tower-temples built by Cham kings between the 4th and 14th centuries AD. Discover the history of the Cham civilisation and Vietnam’s finest Cham architecture, where twenty temple towers remain intact – their timeworn carvings and moss-covered bricks offering a glimpse into a once-flourishing civilisation. Afterward, return to Hoi An and explore Thanh Ha pottery village, renowned for its earthenware once traded across Central Vietnam. Here, gain insight into the daily lives of the locals and observe each stage of the pottery-making process – from crafting vases and pots to kettles and cooking vessels. Later, enjoy a boat cruise along the Thu Bon River to the Kim Bong carpentry village, where you can uncover its rich history, visit the shipbuilding yards, and admire the craftsmanship behind local handicrafts and sculptures.

Accommodations: Deluxe - La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa | Premium - Hoi An Historic Hotel | Superior - Emerald Hoi An Riverside Resort
Meals: Breakfast

As Vietnam’s centre of Buddhism, Hue is home to numerous pagodas, with the best-preserved and most historic being Thien Mu Pagoda. Featuring a seven-storey octagonal tower set on a riverside hillock, this 17th-century pagoda-monastery is an iconic landmark. Enjoy a morning cruise upstream on the Perfume (Huong) River aboard a dragon boat, passing the Imperial City to the sacred Thien Mu Pagoda. Explore the tranquil halls and shrines of Thien Mu Pagoda before delving into the fascinating histories of the Nguyen emperors Tu Duc and Khai Dinh, whose reigns coincided with French colonial rule. Visit the opulent tombs of these emperors, each showcasing a unique legacy. Tu Duc's Tomb, nestled amidst lush gardens, is a poetic masterpiece reflecting the emperor's love for nature and literature. Khai Dinh's Tomb presents an enchanting fusion of Vietnamese and European styles, adorned with intricate mosaics and vibrant colours. Conclude your journey in Hue and fly to Hanoi, Vietnam's charming capital, where vibrant street life and rich heritage await.

Accommodations: Deluxe - Pan Pacific Hanoi | Premium - The Lapis Hotel | Superior - Chalcedony Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Halong Bay is one of Asia's most magnificent natural splendours, boasting over 1,600 largely uninhabited limestone islands jutting out of the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. This enchanting seascape reveals hidden grottoes and lagoons, secluded coves and coral beaches. Arrive in Halong and once settled into your comfortable cabin aboard the cruise boat, prepare to explore the awe- inspiring Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has graced the pages of coffee-table books and National Geographic magazines. Cruise through the serene waters and amongst the limestone islands and islets, whilst marvelling at the unparalleled beauty of this natural wonder.

Please note:   As each cruise company offers a unique itinerary, the detailed Halong Bay itinerary will be updated once the final boat is booked. The Halong Bay cruise itinerary may be subject to change due to weather conditions.

Accommodations: Premium - Bhaya Classic | Deluxe - Indochine Premium Halong Cruise | Superior - Oriental Sails
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

The final day is at leisure, allowing you to discover local attractions, indulge in some last-minute shopping, or simply relax. Later, a private transfer will take you to Noi Bai International Airport for your onward flight.

Meals: Breakfast