Romance of Vietnam - Private - 12 Days

Welcome to Vietnam! Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, our guide will greet you with a sign displaying your name and our company logo. You will then enjoy a private transfer to your luxury accommodation in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Feel free to explore the vibrant city at your own pace or unwind at your hotel following your flight.

Depart vibrant Ho Chi Minh City for a journey to My Tho, nestled on the Mekong River's left bank. On arrival, we will visit the late 19th-century Vinh Trang Pagoda. Next, board a sampan for a leisurely cruise around the picturesque Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise Islands.

We will stop at Unicorn Island, where you can stroll along country lanes, explore orchards, and enjoy tropical fruits while being serenaded by local folk musicians. Visit a fruit plantation before experiencing the tranquillity of the Thoi Son canal in a traditional hand-rowed sampan. Discover local crafts and traditions at a family business, sample honey tea at a bee farm, and witness coconut candy-making.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, allowing for a short rest thereafter. In the afternoon, choose to cycle around Tan Thach village to engage with local villagers and immerse yourself in the daily life of the Mekong Delta, or relax in a hammock and enjoy the cool breeze.

Discover Ho Chi Minh City after sunset on a private 2.5-hour open-air Jeep tour, an ideal time when the city is less crowded and cooler. We'll take you through the vibrant nightlife of Saigon, visiting unexpected locales and experiencing the authentic evening life of its residents. You'll also pass by the city's iconic sights and end the evening with panoramic views from the finest Skybar.

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy some leisure time until we arrange a private cab to transfer you to the airport for your flight to Hoi An.

Hoi An, a remarkably preserved trading port dating back to the 15th century, awaits you. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's among the oldest towns in Southeast Asia, offering a unique blend of cultural influences.

Stroll through its peaceful streets lined with historic buildings and tailor shops, and soak up the quaint, timeless atmosphere. This charming riverside town promises to leave a lasting impression.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a journey through Vietnam's serene countryside, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. If you're visiting Hoi An, a visit to Tra Que village is a must for a genuine glimpse into the life of local farmers.

This morning, our local host will collect us from the hotel for a cycle ride along quiet village roads, offering stunning views of the countryside untouched by heavy traffic. En route to Tra Que organic vegetable village, our guide will share insights into local life and the region's rice culture. Keep your camera ready for snapshots of water buffalo and farmers at work in the rice fields.

Upon arrival at the village, you'll be greeted with refreshing lemon basil tea. We will then explore the gardens and join local farmers to plant vegetables using traditional methods, a uniquely enjoyable experience. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxing foot massage before participating in a hands-on cooking class to make Hoi An’s famous pancake.

A lunch featuring local dishes will follow, after which you can enjoy some free time or rest in a hammock before cycling back to the hotel.

As night falls in Hoi An, the mesmerising glow of lanterns captures your attention. Locals hang these vibrant lanterns outside their homes, a custom believed to bring luck, happiness, and prosperity. To create your own unique souvenir, join a half-day lantern-making workshop. No prior skills are needed for the workshop – just bring your enthusiasm.

Our Hoi An half-day tour transports us back to the 17th century as we explore the city's rich cultural tapestry. We will visit the Museum of Folk Culture to uncover local traditions and the beautifully preserved Old House of Tan Ky. We will cross the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, an enduring symbol of Hoi An's past, and explore the intricately decorated Fujian Assembly Hall.

Return to Hanoi, the vibrant Vietnamese capital acclaimed as one of the world's most liveable cities. Discover the city's unique blend of modern innovation and traditional charm.

We start our day with a 7:30 am pick-up from the hotel, heading to the tranquil countryside of Ba Vi. Our journey involves visiting three villages where local hosts will introduce us to Vietnamese rural life.

Our first stop is at the home of Mr. Duoc, a Vietnam War veteran. He will share his captivating stories from the war and his post-war life. Mr. Duoc is also skilled in processing raw tea leaves into market-ready products, an art we will have the opportunity to explore.

Next, we visit a tea village renowned for its 30-year-old tea trees. Here, we assist local farmers in harvesting tea leaves and learn how to select the finest parts of the plant to create exquisite tea.

Our journey continues to Mrs. Chin’s garden, where we'll participate in a cooking lesson followed by a delightful lunch. After lunch, we’ll take a short break before our host guides us around her village. Along the way, we will visit local workshops to discover the art of making tofu, de-husking rice, and meet a local blacksmith with 70 years of experience.

Cycling through picturesque rice fields, we'll conclude the day at the home of our next host, Mr. Chau, where we’ll enjoy a soothing herbal foot bath. This relaxing experience follows traditional recipes from the Muong ethnic minority.

Start your day leisurely, taking the time to explore the serene landscapes of Mai Chau at your own pace. At midday, enjoy a delightful lunch at the resort, giving you one last opportunity to enjoy the local cuisine before continuing your travels.

In the early afternoon, we embark on our return journey to Hanoi. Relax as the picturesque countryside transitions into the vibrant atmosphere of the capital.

After breakfast, we'll check out of our hotel in Hanoi and set off for the stunning Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its extraordinary beauty. Our cruise team will meet us in the hotel lobby between 8:00-9:00 am; your exact pick-up time will be confirmed the day before.

We'll arrive at the jetty around noon to board our cruise. Once on board, we'll be welcomed and check in, followed by lunch as we set sail amidst hundreds of picturesque islets.

In the afternoon, you can choose from a range of activities such as swimming, kayaking, or exploring nearby caves, depending on the day's itinerary. Alternatively, you may wish to unwind on board.

As the day draws to a close, we'll anchor in a scenic spot, perfect for watching the sunset before we enjoy dinner. We'll spend the night on the cruise.

Please note: In the event of adverse weather conditions, our itinerary may need to be adjusted or cancelled if boats are not permitted to leave the port. Your travel consultant will make alternative arrangements if necessary.

As the day begins in Halong, we enjoy breakfast as our vessel gently makes its way back to the port. After a pleasant early lunch on board, we'll arrive and disembark. You'll then be transferred back to Hanoi, where the afternoon and evening are yours to discover the city at your leisure.

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast on the final day of your trip. After checking out of the hotel, you have time to explore the local markets and purchase souvenirs for your loved ones. Afterwards, make your way to the airport for your flight home. Safe travels!