Hidden Charms of Vietnam 9 Days

Welcome to Hanoi! As you step off the plane at Noi Bai International Airport, a warm and friendly reception awaits you. Look for our guide in the baggage claim area; they'll be holding a sign adorned with the distinctive Asia Tour Advisor logo and your name. Your comfort is our utmost priority, and during your transfer to your hotel, we'll provide you with an engaging introduction to this enchanting city. The remainder of the day is yours to settle in, relax, and soak up the local atmosphere.

Hanoi is a culinary paradise, boasting an array of exceptional dining establishments offering French, Vietnamese, and international cuisines. Don't hesitate to seek recommendations from your guide for personalized restaurant experiences.

Hanoi, Vietnam's captivating capital, is home to seven million people and exudes an air of tradition and refinement. With its French colonial architecture, tree-lined boulevards, serene lakes, and the bustling Old Quarter, the city seamlessly blends the past with the present. Take a moment to witness locals practicing Tai Chi by the tranquil lakeside, while barbers and street food vendors ply their trade on lively sidewalks.

Our journey embarks from Hanoi at 8:00 AM, where we'll pick you up for a scenic drive through the verdant landscapes of the Red River Delta. Our destination: the world-famous UNESCO World Heritage site, Halong Bay. Here, you'll embark on a luxurious junk ship for an enchanting overnight cruise.

As you relax on board, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking limestone karsts that majestically emerge from the azure waters, surrounded by thousands of jungle-clad islands seemingly suspended on the gentle waves. The turquoise waters of the Gulf of Tonkin conceal hidden grottoes and ancient caves, creating a timeless and mesmerizing world.

Indulge in a sumptuous seafood lunch as you savor the awe-inspiring views, with a refreshing drink in hand. Our next stop will be a traditional fishing village, where resourceful locals have transformed their boats into an entire floating community. Following this, you'll have the opportunity to explore Tien Ong Cave before returning to the cruise for an evening of cocktails, canapés, and a magnificent sunset. The day culminates in a romantic candlelit dinner.

Kickstart your day with a Tai Chi class on deck, set against the backdrop of the early morning mist, or simply bask in the breathtaking scenery as the sun rises over the azure waters. You can choose between an excursion to a secluded island with a sandy beach for a refreshing swim or join our chef for a cooking demonstration to delve deeper into the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine.

Relish a leisurely brunch as your junk ship continues its voyage through Halong Bay, passing by captivating islets and intriguing caves on its way back to the dock.

Upon your return to Hanoi, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

After a fulfilling breakfast at your hotel, your knowledgeable local guide will be at your service to explore the captivating capital city of Vietnam. With a history spanning over a thousand years, Hanoi boasts numerous fascinating cultural and historical sites waiting to be discovered.

Visit the imposing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the preserved body of "Uncle Ho" rests, and explore the delicate One Pillar Pagoda, Tran Quoc Temple, and Quan Thanh Pagoda. After a delightful lunch, your exploration continues at the Temple of Literature, housing ancient Vietnamese relics.

Embark on a one-hour cyclo tour through the bustling and vibrant Old Quarter, filled with marketplace shops and tempting street foods. Your day culminates with a unique cultural performance at the water puppet theater, a beloved tradition from northern Vietnam.

Upon disembarkation, your driver will be ready to transfer you to Noi Bai Airport for your flight to Danang. Upon arrival in Danang, our team will ensure a seamless transition to your hotel, granting you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before embarking on an exciting adventure. Your local guide will lead you on a bicycle ride to Tra Que Village, located just 10 kilometers away. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the daily activities of local farmers.

Continue your bicycle journey along the De Vong River to Hoi An Beach wharf. From there, board a boat to Cua Dai Sand Dune, where you'll enjoy a captivating casting net show and learn the art of casting a net from a local fisherman. Continue to Cam Thanh Water Coconut Village, where you'll receive a brief introduction to its history.

Embark on a basket boat adventure along the water coconut river, with fishermen teaching you how to catch crabs (two passengers per boat). Engage in a friendly competition as the group is divided into two teams for a thrilling basket boat race and crab-catching challenge, with a delightful prize awaiting the winners.

At 12:20 PM, board a boat and enjoy a folk songs show by local performers. Then, at 12:30 PM, savor special local delicacies, including pancakes, Tam Huu spring rolls, fried fish, and more. After lunch, learn to craft amusing tools from water coconut leaves.

At 2:00 PM, continue to the ancient town of Hoi An, where you'll experience the daily life of fishermen along the Thu Bon River. A walking tour of Hoi An's well-preserved ancient town center will transport you back in time to when it was a major trading port in Asia. Explore old shophouses, the 400-year-old Japanese Bridge, a Chinese communal hall, and the vibrant market. Conclude your day with free time to relax on Cua Dai Beach.

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast, savoring the flavors and tranquility of your Hoian surroundings. As the morning sun bathes this charming town, our team will arrive to accompany you on your journey to Danang, where you'll catch a flight to vibrant Ho Chi Minh City. Upon your arrival, we'll whisk you away to your hotel, providing you with the evening to immerse yourself in the bustling energy of Saigon.

Saigon, a city that never sleeps, presents an abundance of culinary delights and entertainment options. Whether you're enticed by the sizzle of street food vendors or the sophistication of a rooftop bar at the historic Rex Hotel, Saigon caters to all tastes. Feel free to consult your guide for personalized recommendations tailored to your interests.

In the morning, we'll pick you up for a riveting excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a poignant relic of the Vietnam-American War. Delve into the mysteries of these underground passages, uncover hidden entrances, and learn about the ingenious traps that once protected them. After a satisfying lunch, return to Ho Chi Minh City and devote your afternoon to exploring either the War Remnants Museum or the Presidential Palace, based on your preferences. As evening descends upon the city, take a leisurely stroll along colonial streets, visiting iconic landmarks such as the historic Old Saigon Post Office, the bustling Dong Khoi Street, the elegant Continental Hotel, the grand Opera House, and the majestic City Hall.

At 8:30 AM, your guide will be at your hotel to collect you for an enriching journey to Ben Tre in the Mekong Delta. Along the way, enjoy a refreshing 15-minute stop at Mekong Restop to rejuvenate and soak in the scenic beauty.

By 10:30 AM, you'll arrive at Ham Luong Dock, where you'll board a boat for a captivating cruise along the Ham Luong River, a tributary of the mighty Mekong River. The gentle breeze from the river and the lush tropical islands lining its banks will stir a sense of anticipation for the wonders awaiting you.

During your visit, explore various local workshops and witness the time-honored techniques employed by the local artisans to craft their products. Marvel at the production of activated charcoal, the artistry of dried coconut, the ingenuity behind handy coconut husk brooms, and the intricate creations fashioned from coir, or coconut fiber, by family businesses. Cruise along village roads aboard a "Xe Lôi," a local motorized rickshaw, to immerse yourself in the authentic charm of the region.

Take to the serene natural canals in a kayak, allowing you to fully embrace the tranquil beauty of the Mekong River and gain insights into the rural life that thrives in this area. Following a delectable lunch hosted by a local family, you'll have ample time to relax before embarking on a comfortable car journey back to Ho Chi Minh City, with an expected arrival around 4:30 PM.

Your morning in Ho Chi Minh City is yours to savor at your own pace. When the time comes, your private car will arrive to escort you to the airport for your onward journey.

As your unforgettable Vietnam adventure with Asia Tour Advisor draws to a close, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for sharing this incredible journey with us. Farewell, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future. Should the above itinerary not align with your expectations, please remember that Asia Tour Advisor can craft additional customized trips to suit your unique preferences and desires.