The Best Of Indochina 11 Days

Hanoi, a vibrant blend of modern neighborhoods and rich traditions, welcomes you with open arms. Its bustling streets are filled with scooters jostling for right of way, a cacophony of constant horn honking, and layers of history that reveal the city's resilience and pride.

Dive into the wild and wonderful corners of the city, savor the delights of local markets, explore a burgeoning arts scene, and unwind in luxurious accommodations at surprisingly affordable prices. Immerse yourself in the culture, delve into the past, and witness Hanoi's bustling evolution.

Upon your arrival, our dedicated guide will greet you at the airport and accompany you to a waiting vehicle, offering a brief introduction to the city along the way. Look for our guide holding a welcome signboard adorned with the ASIA TOUR ADVISOR LOGO and your name. Relax as we transfer you to your downtown hotel.

As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi boasts a millennium of captivating cultural and historic sites. Our tour will unveil the city's most iconic attractions.

Visit the grand and solemn Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (please note it's closed on Mondays and Fridays, as well as in October and November), marvel at the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, explore the beautiful Temple of Literature, soak in the serene ambiance of Tran Quoc Temple by West Lake, and pay your respects at Quan Thanh Pagoda. Conclude your day with a visit to the lively Old Quarter, followed by an enchanting water puppet performance. The evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Ninh Binh serves as an ideal gateway to Vietnam's breathtaking limestone landscapes. This province has witnessed countless changes in nature and society over the centuries, yet it still retains its pristine charm.

Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a journey to Ninh Binh. Explore Hoa Lu, the ancient royal capital of Vietnam, where you'll discover the Dinh and Le King Temples, each steeped in the heroic history of these kings during the Chinese Wars. Following this, enjoy a boat trip to explore the wonders of Trang An, Tam Coc, or Van Long, each offering a unique natural spectacle. Return to your hotel for check-in and relaxation.

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of over 2,000 floating islands adorned with karstic rock formations. Legend has it that these islands were formed by a family of dragons, summoned by the Emperor to shield Vietnam from Chinese invaders. These dragons created the islands by spitting out jewels and jade, creating a protective barrier still admired today.

At approximately 9:00 am, we will pick you up from your hotel and journey through the lush Red River Delta to the renowned UNESCO World Heritage site, Ha Long Bay. You'll board a luxurious junk ship for an overnight cruise, where you can relax while taking in the mesmerizing limestone karsts that rise from the sea. Admire thousands of lush, jungle-covered islands seemingly floating on the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. These waters conceal hidden grottoes and ancient caves, creating an enchanting and timeless world.

Savor a delectable seafood lunch as you relax with a drink in hand, admiring the stunning views. We will take you to a traditional fishing village where locals have transformed their boats into a vibrant town. Explore Tien Ong Cave and return to the cruise for a sunset cocktail, canapés, and a romantic candlelit dinner.

As the morning bathes Ha Long Bay in gentle light, the karst formations shimmer with a mystical allure. Early risers can embrace the tranquility of the bay from the ship's deck while partaking in a soothing Tai Chi session. Each movement is deliberate, enhancing both body and mind.

After the morning cruise, your driver awaits your disembarkation, ready to transfer you to Noi Bai Airport for your flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival at Da Nang Airport, a warm welcome and seamless transfer will whisk you to your downtown Hoi An hotel.

Hoi An, a charming ancient town nestled 30 kilometers south of Da Nang, enchants visitors with its preserved legacy. Amidst the historic Old Town, you'll discover teetering Japanese merchant houses, elegant Chinese temples, and ancient tea warehouses, all framed against the backdrop of bustling tourist businesses. Lounge bars, boutique hotels, travel agencies, and tailor shops converge to create a captivating scene.

Select from the following itineraries to craft your unique exploration of Hoi An:

Option 1: Cooking Class

Embark on a culinary journey commencing with a visit to vibrant local markets, where you'll procure the freshest ingredients for your adventure. Upon your return, your skilled chef will guide you through the preparation of typical Vietnamese cuisine. Following the demonstration, it's your turn to master the art of cooking, culminating in the enjoyment of your delectable creations.

In the afternoon, set out on a walking tour of Old Hoi An, a time-capsule town that flourished as a major Asian seaport. Its rich history is lovingly preserved, evident in traditional Chinese shops, opulent French residences, and an ancient Japanese bridge. Silk markets, Vietnamese street food stalls, and talented street performers await your discovery, promising to captivate your senses.

Option 2: Tra Que Village Discovery

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by an invigorating bike ride to Tra Que Village, where you'll delve into the heart of Vietnamese rural life. Learn about the village's history and witness the daily rituals of cultivating vegetables.

Gain insight into the traditional uses of these vegetables in Vietnamese medicine and participate in various farming activities, from collecting seaweed fertilizer to sowing, raking, watering, and harvesting. Continue your cultural immersion by joining a local family to prepare and savor a meal made from the very produce you helped grow. Taste other local specialties like Tam huu (spring rolls) and Banh xeo (pancakes), and embrace a customary after-lunch nap before returning to the fields to learn about harvesting and packaging the produce. In the afternoon, bid farewell to your newfound friends and return to Hoi An to explore the Old Quarter, then relax at your hotel.

Option 3: Bike Or Motor Bike To The Countryside

Your day begins with your guide picking you up at the hotel on a motorbike. Ride to Tra Que village before heading to the river for a local ferry ride to Kim Bong Village, known for wood carving and traditional sleeping mat weaving. Witness the intricate process of mat weaving at a local family's home, gaining insights into its historical significance.

Next, visit a local family engaged in making Mi Quang, a famous local noodle dish. You'll have the opportunity to participate and savor the perfect banh dap (rice cracker). Embark on a thrilling 300-meter bamboo bridge river crossing to reach the sea-side landscape of Duy Hai market and harbor.

A local ferry will transport you to Cam Thanh village, enveloped by water coconut palm fringes. Enjoy a meal at Cam Thanh homestay before returning to your hotel by motorbike. If you prefer biking over a scooter tour, we can customize the route to match your abilities.

This day is yours to savor at your leisure. Stroll along the enchanting laneways, explore old buildings, cycle along picturesque riverbanks, and immerse yourself in the town's ambiance. For those seeking a tailor-made experience, Hoi An offers numerous opportunities to create custom clothing, from replicating a favorite dress to crafting a unique zoot suit.

If the word "beach" entices you, a short bike ride from town will lead you to the captivating An Bang Beach. You'll find it difficult to tear yourself away from this exquisite stretch of sand, sparkling waters, and sumptuous seafood.

Siem Reap, a city destined for greatness, beckons travelers not only to explore its ancient temples but also to indulge in its vibrant modern offerings. Beyond the temples, Siem Reap has evolved into the epicenter of chic Cambodia, boasting party pads, world-class dining, spas, shopping, local tours, and a thriving cultural scene, including Cambodia's premier contemporary circus.

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast before we collect you for your flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Upon arrival at the airport, our attentive team will greet you and transfer you directly to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your own pace.

The temples of Angkor stand as a source of inspiration and national pride for all Khmers, serving as a symbol of resilience in the face of years of terror and turmoil. These temples are a point of pilgrimage for all Cambodians, and no traveler should miss their extravagant beauty.

Angkor ranks among the world's foremost ancient sites, boasting the grandeur of the Great Wall of China, the intricacy of the Taj Mahal, and the symbolism of the pyramids—all rolled into one.

After breakfast at your hotel, your guide will lead you to the ancient Khmer civilization site of Hariharalaya, flourishing in the late 9th and early 10th centuries. These temples, part of the Rolous group (Lo Lei, Preah Koh, and Bakhong Temples), represent the earliest structures in the Angkor area. Lunch with a local family precedes your journey to the rural outskirts, 35 kilometers from the Angkor area, to visit the smallest yet magnificent Banteay Srei, dating back to the 10th century and dedicated to Shiva.

This temple is renowned for its Khmer classical style architecture, featuring remarkable bas-relief work that serves as a prime example of Khmer classical art. Local lore even suggests that women crafted this temple, as its details are too intricate for the hands of men. On your return to Siem Reap, explore the Banteay Samre Temple adorned with striking reliefs depicting Vishnu and Krishna legends.

Begin your day with an early breakfast at the hotel. At 7:30 AM, your adventure unfolds as you depart for the captivating Ta Prohm Temple, where nature and history coalesce in a haunting and exotic tableau. The towering roots of ancient trees embrace the temple's massive stone blocks, creating a scene etched in memory.

Continue your journey to explore the intricately carved Khmer ruins at Angkor Wat, one of the world's most impressive archaeological sites. The temple boasts exquisite Apsara carvings that showcase Angkorian-era artistry.

Next, uncover the mysteries of the royal city of Angkor Thom. The 54-tower temple of Bayon greets you with its awe-inspiring presence. Initially appearing as a mass of stone, closer inspection reveals faces staring out from a bygone era, enveloping you in their enigmatic gaze.

Further exploration takes you to the Baphou, Elephant Terraces, Lipper King Terrace, Royal Palace, and the intriguing Preah Khan Temple, constructed in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII in a style similar to Ta Prohm Temple.

Your time is your own until your private car and driver arrive to escort you to the airport for your onward journey.

As you conclude your unforgettable Vietnam tour with AsiaTouradvisor.com, we bid you farewell and look forward to welcoming you again in the future. Should the above itinerary not align with your expectations, rest assured that AsiaTouradvisor.com can arrange additional customized trips to suit your preferences.