Vibrant Vietnam

Depart Auckland this evening on our flight to Singapore.    

After a short stop at Changi Airport Singapore, we fly to Hanoi arriving around midday. Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport Hanoi, we’ll complete entry formalities and then transfer to our hotel. Our rooms will be available mid-afternoon to check in so you may wish to take some time to stretch your legs for your first glimpse of Hanoi which blends ancient temples, French colonial charm and vibrant street life in a city rich with culture and history. This evening we gather together with our local tour director for a Welcome Drink with dinner.

Accommodation:  Silk Path Luxury Hanoi – Hang Bong or similar – 2 nights 

Today we begin with a visit to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university built in the late 11th century. The picturesque temple is an example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture and is featured on the back of the 100,000 Vietnamese dong banknote. Next, we enjoy a 30-minute cyclo ride through the famed Old Quarter known for its ‘36 streets of 36 wares’ named after the original 36 artisan guilds that date as far back as the 13th century. Water puppetry is a unique art that originated in Vietnam’s wet rice civilisation. Today we meet with a water puppet artisan to sit down for a cup of tea and hear his stories about the origins of water puppets, and how he travelled to different corners of the world to bring Vietnamese culture onto the international stage. We’ll then see a 30-minute water puppet show featuring scenes of lion dances, buffalo fighting, rice farming, and boat racing, brought to life in this distinctively Vietnamese spectacle. 

In the afternoon, we visit the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (viewed from the outside only), an imposing monument of marble and granite built to house the preserved body of beloved revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh, affectionately known to the Vietnamese as “Uncle Ho”. Visit the One Pillar Pagoda, a Buddhist temple built in 1049 of wood in the shape of a lotus blossom and set on a single stone pillar. Proceed to Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House nearby, a simple wooden house in a tranquil setting where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked. Some of his belongings are on display and visitors can walk up the steps to see his bedroom. This evening is at leisure to further explore Hanoi and enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice. 

We leave the busy streets of Hanoi behind, bound for the serenity of Lan Ha Bay, a hidden gem adjacent to Halong Bay. After boarding our traditional-style Vietnamese Junk boat, we set sail into the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay. After a delicious lunch on board, we journey to Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island—nestled deep within Cat Ba National Park, where we explore the peaceful countryside by bike or on foot, passing through lush landscapes and learning about ‘Viet Hai Community Farm’ & ‘Save the Langur’, two local social responsibilities projects. Afterwards, we take a refreshing swim in the emerald lagoons near Viet Hai pier, before returning to the boat to enjoy Happy Hour on deck, with panoramic views of the bay. As the sun begins to set, join our onboard chef for a Vietnamese cooking demonstration, followed by a relaxing dinner and overnight stay surrounded by the beauty of Lan Ha Bay. Note: the itinerary may change depending on the weather and travel conditions at the time of visit without prior notice. 

Accommodation:  Au Co Cruise or similar – 1 night 

Rise early to greet the day with a revitalising Tai Chi session on the sundeck, as the sun casts its first golden rays over the limestone peaks of Lan Ha Bay. After breakfast, we head to Trinh Nu Cave, one of Halong Bay’s most radiant, sunlight-filled caves, and its secluded private beach. Guests can explore the cave’s impressive stalactites and stalagmites, then choose to kayak through the crystal-clear waters, or relax on the tranquil beach. After a final glimpse of this natural paradise, we return to the boat to check out mid-morning, concluding our unforgettable journey through the bays of Northern Vietnam. Note: The itinerary may change depending on the weather and travel conditions at the time of visit without prior notice. 

We then board our coach for the drive to Hanoi Airport to catch our late afternoon flight to Danang. On arrival, we transfer to our hotel in Hoi An which enchants with lantern-lit streets, ancient architecture, riverside markets, and a blend of cultures and cuisines. Dinner is included this evening. 

Accommodation:  Allegro Hoi An – A Little Luxury Hotel & Spa or similar – 3 nights 

This morning we set out on a walking tour around the ancient town of Hoi An. Embrace its charm of yesteryear, the narrow lanes, colourful marketplaces and ancient temples providing insights into the Vietnam of old. See the old merchant houses and 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, first built in the 1590s by the Japanese community to link them with the Chinese quarters across the stream; the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation with its intricate woodcarvings; and the colourful market with stalls brimming with local specialties including silk, which can be turned into fashionable garments within a day or two. The afternoon and evening are at your leisure to relax, explore more of Hoi An, or enjoy its diverse culinary scene.

Enjoy some free time this morning to explore Hoi An further or simply relax at our hotel. For those interested, there is an optional activity this morning to learn how to craft your own colourful lantern (not included – additional cost). This afternoon, we meet up with a local chef at Hai Café in the old town for a brief introduction and a welcome drink. Meander through Hoi An’s central market with your chef to enjoy the sights, sounds and aromas. This is your chance to learn about how to select fresh produce and ingredients essential for Vietnamese cuisine. Embark on a 20-minute boat trip to the cooking school, get your camera ready as the cruise offers glimpses of local river life! Upon arrival visit the school’s herb garden before enjoying a private hands-on cooking class. After the lesson, sit down and eat what you have created in the lovely restaurant overlooking the river, a memorable way to immerse ourselves in the flavours of Vietnam.

This morning, we visit a local fishing village to gain insight into the traditional way of life along Vietnam’s central coast. Board a local river boat and start cruising down the Cua Dai River with a stop along the shore to try your hand at casting the Vietnamese fishing nets, an age-old technique still used today. The fluid motion looks easier than it is, but the friendly fishermen will offer you their guidance based on years of experience. Learn the art of paddling the unique Vietnamese round basket boats and travel through the tranquil coconut-palm-flanked waterways while hearing about how the area was a hotbed of activity during the American War. Return to the river boat and enjoy a refreshing drink as you head back upriver. Dinner is included tonight. 

Accommodation:  Eldora Hotel or similar – 2 nights 

This morning, we travel by cyclo through Hue’s bustling streets to the Imperial City, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Complex of Hue Monuments. Once the seat of the Nguyen emperors, the site showcases grand temples, serene palaces, and detailed architecture. Enjoy time to explore highlights such as the ornate gates, landscaped gardens, royal tombs, and the Forbidden Purple City, once reserved for the imperial family. From here, we drive to Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s best-preserved religious monument, where you’ll have time to admire its peaceful setting, historic architecture, and enjoy views over the Perfume River. We visit the house of the former Princess Ngoc Son where we’ll meet a family member for lunch and gain a glimpse of their life in this historic house. The afternoon and evening are at your leisure, or consider joining an optional excursion (additional cost – not included).

Today we fly to Vietnam’s biggest city, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon). As the country’s commercial centre, with over nine million inhabitants and five million motorbikes, it truly is a city that never sleeps. Yet amid the hustle and bustle, Ho Chi Minh City retains its connections with the past, and has strong ties to its rich history. Upon arrival we travel to Dong Khoi Street, or Rue Catinat as it was known in the time of the French occupation, to discover some of the beautiful French colonial buildings built in the late 19th and early 20th century including the famous Continental Hotel where Graham Greene penned “The Quiet American”.

Appreciate the splendidly restored exteriors of the Opera House and the former Hotel de Ville which are still two of the finest buildings in Ho Chi Minh City. Wander up to the Notre Dame Cathedral, a red brick landmark with twin spires based on the original construction of its Parisian counterpart (note – it is only possible to visit inside when no service is being performed). We then head across the square to the Central Post Office, designed by the French architect, Gustave Eiffel, before he had risen to fame for the Eiffel Tower. We dine together this evening.

Accommodation:  Hotel Grand Saigon or similar – 4 nights 

Today we explore the enchanting Mekong Delta, a fertile land with lush paddies and warm smiles. Just two-hours from Ho Chi Minh City, the hospitable people and beautiful countryside scenery await us. We have time to explore Cai Be town at the heart of the Mekong Delta, to experience the unique lifestyle, culture, and traditional handicrafts. We board the Mekong Queen, a charming traditional boat and cruise along one of the Mekong’s branches, savouring local fruits amid a refreshing breeze. See the bustling riverbanks with rice-related business activities in town. We visit a well-preserved ancient house from the 19th century and cross the Mekong River, briefly disembarking to meet local families crafting traditional products. Enjoy a leisurely sampan ride through narrow canals, discovering the serene river life and shady village backroads adorned with fruitful orchards. Our journey concludes with a delectable home-hosted lunch featuring Mekong Delta specialties. After a short cruise to Cai Be pier we head back to Ho Chi Minh City for an evening at leisure. 

This morning, we transfer to a local jetty and depart for the Cu Chi Tunnels. Our private speedboat excursion will pass glittering skyscrapers and busy commercial centres before giving way to green fields and stilt houses along the Saigon River. Arrive at the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, an immense network of connecting underground tunnels started in 1948 to protect the Viet Cong guerrillas from the French air and ground sweeps. The tunnels also served as living quarters, communication and supply routes, as well as housing hospitals, and storage for food and weapons. Touring the underground compounds will provide a better understanding of the history of the tunnels, the hardship of life in the tunnels, and the Vietnamese resilience during times of conflict.

Note the tunnels are very narrow and will require bending and crouching in dim light, a moderate level of fitness and agility is required. If you experience claustrophobia, we suggest speaking with our guide before entering the tunnels.

Return by private speedboat to Ho Chi Minh City, before we head out this evening for a street food dinner by Vespa – enjoy a variety of authentic local dishes, including fresh seafood, followed by Bánh Xèo (savoury Vietnamese pancakes), and a drink.

This morning, we begin at the rooftop café of the iconic Rex Hotel, where we enjoy a drink and a spectacular view of downtown Ho Chi Minh City as our guide explains the hotel’s place in history. We visit the Reunification Palace (also known as Independence Palace) for a guided tour of the former headquarters of the South Vietnamese Government and presidential residence. Next, we explore the War Remnants Museum for a vivid glimpse of the American war through the local’s eyes (please note that some of the photos are very graphic). Our city tour will conclude with a visit to the city’s main market – Ben Thanh Market, the heart of local trade and daily life. Tonight, we gather together to enjoy a farewell dinner at the Old Ambassador’s House, home of the former American Ambassador to South Vietnam in the 1960s, Mr. Henry Cabot Lodge. Perfectly suited to social gatherings for small groups, a sophisticated Vietnamese meal will be served in the magnificent dining room.

Today our discovery of the iconic and unexpected highlights of Vietnam draws to a close as we transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City to commence our journey home. After a short stop at Changi Airport Singapore, we board our flight home to Auckland.

We arrive back to Auckland International Airport in the morning. After completing entry formalities we transfer to our home ports.