Vietnam Insight 14 Days

Your journey begins as you touch down in Hanoi. Stepping out of the aircraft, you'll be warmly greeted by your guide just outside the baggage claim area. Look for the distinctive welcome signboard adorned with the ASIA TOUR ADVISOR LOGO and your name. Your adventure in Hanoi commences with a smooth transfer to the downtown area. As you travel, your guide will offer a delightful introduction to the charms of Hanoi.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, stands as a bustling metropolis inhabited by seven million people. A city with deep traditions and refined elegance, it boasts French colonial architecture, tree-lined boulevards, serene lakes, and a vibrant Old Quarter. As you explore, you'll encounter locals practicing the graceful art of Tai Chi by the tranquil lakeshores. Along the lively streets, barbers and food vendors go about their sidewalk trade, creating an ever-changing tapestry of daily life.

Embark on a full-day exploration of Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam. A city steeped in history, it proudly marked its 1,000-year anniversary in 2010. Your tour will encompass the most captivating cultural and historic sites, allowing you to witness the grandeur of Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum (please note it is viewed from the outside and closed on Mondays and Fridays, as well as during October and November).

Discover the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, explore the exquisite Temple of Literature, and visit the tranquil Tran Quoc Temple by the picturesque West Lake. Marvel at the architectural beauty of Quan Thanh Pagoda and gain insights into the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culture at the Ethnology Museum. The bustling Old Quarter will captivate you with its vibrant streets.

As the day comes to a close, treat yourself to a water puppet performance—a truly unique and enchanting art form that beautifully showcases Vietnamese heritage.

In the evening, at 8:00 PM, our Asia Tour Advisor’s guide will collect you from your hotel and escort you to Hanoi Railway Station. Here, you will board the night train bound for Lao Cai, where you will arrive at either 5:30 AM or 6:00 AM.

Awaken to the serene surroundings of Sapa as your train arrives around 6:00 AM. Look for the unmistakable "Asia Tour Advisor’s Logo & Your Name" sign as you disembark at the train station, where our guide will warmly welcome you. You'll then be transported to Sapa, a former hill station boasting breathtaking landscapes.

The terraced hills and mountains come alive with the vibrant colors of the hill tribes. Witness the gleam of silver jewelry adorning the necks and wrists of the indigo-clad H'mong people, as well as the vivid scarlet turbans worn by the Red Dao. The hands of the locals are stained with the vibrant hues of fabric dyes, showcasing intricate embroidery in shades of blue, red, and green, woven into jackets, waistcoats, pants, skirts, caps, purses, and leggings.

After enjoying breakfast at a local restaurant, embark on a 20-minute walk through the town before veering onto a dirt road leading to Ma Tra Village, inhabited by the Black H'mong ethnic group. The journey continues through paddies and leads you to an ancient Catholic abbey built by French colonists.

Hike an additional 2 kilometers to reach Ta Phin Village, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the Red Dzao people. Here, you'll have the opportunity to purchase intricately woven and textile brocades crafted by the local ethnic communities. Enjoy a picnic lunch before exploring the village, visiting Ta Phin Cave, and exploring a small hamlet of the Black H'mong people. As the day comes to a close, return to Sapa, where the afternoon and evening are yours to savor at your leisure.

Commence your day with breakfast at your hotel and rendezvous with your guide in the morning. Embark on your second trek, this time leading you from Sapa to the enchanting Golden Stream valley. Throughout the journey, you'll be treated to captivating views of rice terraces, lush gardens, and the awe-inspiring Mt. Fansipan, rising to a height of 10,312 feet (3,143 meters) above sea level.

Cross a suspension bridge and be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring landscapes as you continue your trek through the Golden Stream valley. Pause for lunch in Lao Chai village, where you'll have the opportunity to explore this village inhabited by the Black Hmong people.

After your meal, follow your guide through this vibrant village to learn about the daily lives and rich culture of the locals. Your journey then takes you to Ta Van village, home to the Dzay tribe. While the trail is relatively easy, please note that it can become slippery in wet conditions, so suitable footwear is advised. Visit local families, immerse yourself in their daily routines, and gain insights into their fascinating culture.

Your return to Sapa will bring you to the main road, where your driver awaits to take you back to Sapa. Enjoy a refreshing shower at the hotel, followed by a free afternoon to explore the town at your own pace.

In the evening, your journey continues as you are transported to the train station for the night train back to Hanoi. Upon your arrival at Lao Cai train station, you'll board the night train bound for the capital city.

As your train meanders back to Hanoi early in the morning, a fresh day awaits you. Upon arrival in Hanoi, our guide will be there to greet you and arrange for a day room where you can relax and freshen up.

Your adventure resumes at 8:00 AM as we collect you from Hanoi for your journey to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Halong Bay. Your destination is nothing short of mesmerizing—an ethereal seascape adorned with thousands of limestone karsts rising majestically from the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. These jungle-covered islands appear to float on the gentle waves, while hidden grottoes and ancient caves beckon for exploration.

You'll board a luxurious junk ship for an unforgettable overnight cruise. Relax on board and marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay as you enjoy a fresh seafood lunch with a refreshing drink in hand. Your voyage will take you to a traditional fishing village where the locals have ingeniously constructed an entire town on the decks of their boats.

Explore the mystical Tien Ong Cave before returning to the cruise for a delightful evening. Savor cocktails, canapés, and a romantic candlelit dinner as you witness a spectacular sunset over the bay.

As you awaken on your cruise, the morning mist over Halong Bay is a sight to behold. Start your day with a Tai Chi class on deck, gracefully moving with the rising sun in the misty surroundings. Alternatively, you can simply admire the mesmerizing scenery as the sun's first rays gently kiss the azure waters.

Choose between an excursion to a secluded island with a sandy beach for a refreshing swim or join the chef for a captivating cooking demonstration, delving into the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine. Savor a leisurely brunch as your junk cruises Halong Bay, allowing you to bask in the beauty of the limestone karsts and tranquil waters.

Upon disembarkation, your driver will be ready to meet you and escort you to Noi Bai Airport for your flight to Danang. Arriving in Danang, you'll be greeted and transferred to your hotel, where you'll have free time to unwind and explore at your own pace.

Hoi An, a thriving port from the 16th to the 19th centuries, once welcomed merchants from across the globe who came to trade in silk, spices, and porcelain. Today, the UNESCO World Heritage Old Quarter of Hoi An stands as a beautifully preserved testament to its illustrious past. Ornate pagodas, antique trading houses, and centuries-old tile-roofed shops create a rich architectural tapestry blending Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, and European styles.

Embark on a morning walking tour of Hoi An's ancient town center, which will transport you back in time to its bustling trading days. Explore old shophouses, traverse the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Bridge, visit a Chinese communal hall, and immerse yourself in the vibrant local market. Following your tour, enjoy some free time to relax on the shores of Cua Dai Beach.

Following breakfast at your hotel, the day unfolds at your leisure, offering opportunities for relaxation on the beach or indulging in some shopping. In the afternoon, your guide will collect you and accompany you on a journey to Hue. En route, you'll visit the Cham Museum, ascend the majestic Pass of Ocean Clouds to savor panoramic vistas, and explore the charming fishing village of Lang Co Beach. Arriving in Hue, you'll check in to your hotel and have free time to unwind.

Begin your day by exploring the Imperial Citadel, a historic site where the Nguyen Dynasty ruled from 1802 to 1945. Afterward, embark on a charming cyclo ride through the enchanting 'Old City' to Tinh Tam Lake, a favored retreat for emperors.

This afternoon, visit the Mu Pagoda, nestled above the Perfume River. Conclude your day with a visit to Khai Dinh's Tomb, an architectural marvel that merges traditional Vietnamese design with European influences, setting it apart from other tombs in Hue. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy as you please.

After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy some free time before transferring to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed and transferred to your hotel, where you can relax and explore the city at your own pace.

Awaken in Ho Chi Minh City and savor breakfast at your hotel. Today's adventure takes you to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a fascinating underground labyrinth that played a pivotal role during the Vietnam War. After an informative visit and a hearty lunch in Cu Chi, you'll return to Ho Chi Minh City.

This afternoon, depending on your preference, you can choose to visit either the War Remnants Museum or the History Museum. As the day unfolds, explore the city's captivating colonial architecture, including the Old Saigon Post Office, Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat), Continental Hotel, Opera House, and City Hall.

Following breakfast at your hotel, your guide will pick you up and transport you to Ben Tre. Your journey commences at Phong Nam Pier (Phong Nam old ferry station). Here, you'll board a boat to cruise along one of the tributaries of the mighty Mekong River.

Along the way, witness the vibrant activities of river life, including fishing and water transportation. Pause at a brickwork site to observe the process of coconut charcoal production and coconut husking. Visit one of the many coconut processing workshops, offering a glimpse into the intricate art of crafting coconut candies along the canals.

As you navigate through the natural scissors creeks, their size gradually diminishing, you'll venture deeper into the heart of the village. Embark on a leisurely walk to explore the village and visit a family dedicated to crafting sleep mats. Later, embark on a cart ride powered by a motorbike or enjoy a bicycle tour, taking you through tranquil villages and lush vegetable gardens.

Lunch awaits at a local restaurant, providing an opportunity to savor authentic flavors. In the afternoon, continue your exploration with a bike ride around the village, a serene rowing-boat journey along water palm creek, and a boat ride to Hung Vuong Pier. From there, you'll travel by car to Can Tho, where you'll check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Embrace the allure of the Lower Mekong River as you embark on a leisurely boat excursion. Glide along the picturesque Bassac River and make your way to the vibrant Cai Răng floating market, one of the liveliest markets in the region. Here, you'll witness a unique way of life as locals trade their goods on the water.

Have you ever tasted Vietnamese vermicelli soup? Today, you'll have the opportunity to observe how this beloved dish is meticulously prepared. Stroll through the village, interacting with friendly locals and learning the art of crossing a "Monkey bridge," a remarkable structure crafted from a single bamboo stem. Explore an orchard garden and savor a delectable lunch.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City, where you'll check in to your hotel and have free time to enjoy the city's charms.