Honeymoon Holiday to Vietnam: Serenity and Tranquillity

Highlights of the Trip

Vietnam is a destination packed full of romance and history, making this the perfect honeymoon getaway. A honeymoon marks the new beginning of a lifelong romance, and this tour guarantees to offer you the perfect start to the next exciting chapter of your lives together. This Vietnam honeymoon travel itinerary includes some of the best honeymoon destinations Vietnam has to offer. Explore Pu Luong Nature Reserve – one of the most beautiful areas in northern Vietnam, discover traditional Vietnamese villages offering a treasured glimpse into local life, and marvel at the romantically beautiful Ha Long Bay. Here you can embrace dreamy sun filled days cruising with the love of your life. This tour offers the finest destinations across Vietnam for your idyllic honeymoon.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Hanoi

• Hanoi’s Old Quarter: The heart and soul of the city, with its winding streets, traditional architecture, and bustling markets.
• St. Joseph Cathedral: The cathedral’s history dates back to the late 19th century when French missionaries arrived in Vietnam to spread their Catholic faith.
• Hoa Lo Prison: Built by the French colonialists in the late 19th century to house Vietnamese political prisoners during their occupation of the country.
• Temple of Literature: Originally built in 1070 as a Confucian temple and the first national university of Vietnam.
• Railway Line: This cuts through urban Hanoi, sometimes running just meters away from the front doors of houses!

Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay

• Dark and Bright Cave: Visit this cave by bamboo boat rowed by local people.
• Bat Cave: A truly unique destination that offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
• Trung Trang: One of the most impressive caves in Cat Ba island.

Hoi An

• Cam Kim Island: Offers a peaceful and authentic glimpse into traditional Vietnamese life.

Da Nang

• Ba Na Hills Mountain Resort: You will take The cable car ride up to the Ba Na Hills, have time to experience the Funicular train, see the Le Jardin D’Amour, Golden Bridge and the Giant Buddha Statue.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Pu Luong Nature Reserve: The reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, with over 1,000 plant species and 500 animal species recorded. It is also home to several ethnic minority groups, such as the Thai, Muong, and Kinh people, who have been living in harmony with nature for centuries.

Local Villages: Walk around these traditional villages such as Uoi. Cycle around the scenic village of Lan village. Here, if time allows you can visit a local family where we can learn about their
traditional brocade weaving.

Tai-chi Class: Embrace a morning Tai-chi class on board your serene cruise. Tai Chi is often described as a form of moving meditation, as it focuses on deep breathing, precise movements, and a calm and focused mind. This makes it a perfect activity for the fast-paced, hectic lifestyle that many people in Vietnam lead.

Cooking Class: This unique experience will take you on a journey through the vibrant and flavourful cuisine of Vietnam, all while cruising along the breathtakingly beautiful bay.

Learn Coffee Roasting: The country is the second largest coffee producer in the world and has been cultivating coffee since the late 19th century. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in learning about the art and science of roasting coffee beans in Vietnam.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Vietnam

During this honeymoon holiday to Vietnam, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region, including pho, a traditional noodle soup that is considered the country’s national dish. Made with a flavourful broth, thinly sliced meat, and fresh herbs, pho is a comforting and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of day. Another popular dish that should not be missed is banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich filled with a variety of fillings such as pork, pate, and pickled vegetables. It’s a perfect combination of French and Vietnamese flavours, and can be found on almost every street corner in the country.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Huu Tiep Lake: Meet a fascinating elderly resident of the area who regales us with stories of the past in a 400-year-old temple. See the B52 crash site.

Suspension Bridge over the Cham River: Search for stunning water wheels. Get up close to each wheel and discover how water is moved from river to handmade bamboo aqueducts via simple constructions of all sizes.

Rafting Adventure: Bamboo rafting along the Cham River. Great to add to your Vietnam travel itinerary!

Sealife Legend Cruise: Cruise around Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. An excellent activity on your honeymoon holiday to Vietnam.

Accommodation of this Tour

Hanoi: Bendecir hotel (boutique hotel, short walk to Hoan Kiem Lake – Junior Suite Balcony room).

Lan Ha Bay: Sealife Legend cruise (a modern fleet with deluxe facilities in the magnificent Halong and Lan Ha Bay – Legend Suite).

Pu Luong: Pu Luong Retreat (unique accommodation, well located in the Nature Reserve, offering a beautiful view of the valley – Deluxe New Wing room).

Danang: Pullman Danang (nice beach front resort with stretch sandy beach – Superior room).

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Arriving at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi, you’ll be met by your local guide and taken to your hotel. Stay overnight in the Bendecir Hanoi, Junior Suite City View.

Day 2: Discover alluring Hanoi like a local

Hanoi is an amazing holiday destination in Vietnam. At 8:00am today, your tour guide will accompany you on a sightseeing excursion around Hanoi. Your first stop will be the Ngoc Son Temple, followed by a visit to a local coffee shop where you can sample the famous Vietnamese iced coffee, known as ‘Ca phe sua da’. For those feeling adventurous, you can also try the unique ‘Egg coffee’. Afterward, continue to explore the city’s street food scene, where we highly recommend trying the delicious ‘banh mi’ – a mouth-watering baguette sandwich filled with a variety of fresh local ingredients. As you make your way through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, you will be able to spot snippets of French architectural influence in the city’s buildings. Your first destination will be the St. Joseph Cathedral, a stunning French gothic structure built in 1886. Next, you will visit Hoa Lo Prison, a historical site where Vietnamese, American, and French prisoners were held at different times. Vietnam is renowned for its delectable cuisine, and you will have the opportunity to taste the famous ‘Bun Cha’ at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, you will visit Huu Tiep Lake, we meet a fascinating elderly resident of the area who regales us with stories of the past in a 400-year-old temple. It’s then a short walk to see the B52 crash site at the lake. This US bomber was shot down during the 1972 bombing raids of Hanoi, a poignant reminder of recent history. You then visit the Temple of Literature. Built in 1076, this temple was the site of Vietnam’s first university, established to educate Vietnam’s royalty, mandarins and members of the elite.

The day’s final sightseeing stop will be at the railway line cutting through urban Hanoi, sometimes running just meters away from the front doors of houses! Walking along a stretch of the railway with your guide offers some incredible photo opportunities. The tour will finish, in true local style, at a Bia Hoi where you can enjoy some local draft beer.

*Note that innumerable street food specialties will be available throughout the day; to best appreciate them you may wish to skip your hotel breakfast before this tour.

✓ Breakfast, Street food.

Day 3: Enjoy the slow and captivating pace of Pu Luong Nature Reserve

After breakfast, your private driver and guide will pick you up to begin your journey to Pu Luong Nature Reserve. The drive will take approximately 4 hours. Upon arrival at Pu Luong Retreat, you will be greeted with a delicious lunch prepared by the Retreat. Take some time to explore the stunning retreat and its panoramic views, overlooking the rice terraces, mountains, and valleys.

In the afternoon, you will be transported to a suspension bridge over the Cham River. From there, you will embark on a walk to see the breath-taking water wheels. You will have the opportunity to get up close to each wheel and learn about how water is transported from the river to handmade bamboo aqueducts through a series of simple constructions. At one point, you will arrive at a local fisherman’s house, where you can take a short break before continuing your adventure.

Next, you will experience a thrilling rafting excursion with Dinh and his team. As you float along the peaceful river, take in the beautiful views and learn how to paddle and steer your own handcrafted raft. The experience will surely be one to remember and an experience you need on your Vietnam travel itinerary.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Scenic hiking around serene surroundings

Today during your honeymoon holiday to Vietnam, take a leisurely stroll through the breath-taking rice terraces that surround the Retreat. As we descend into the valley, you’ll be greeted by a stunning view of the terraced fields. We’ll wind our way through lush paths surrounded by foliage, leading us to the charming Uoi village nestled at the foot of a majestic mountain. Don’t forget to capture the beautiful panoramic view of the village from above. Our next stop will be at a local home, where you can take a break before hopping on a bike to explore nearby Lan village. If time permits, we may also have the opportunity to visit a family and learn about their traditional brocade weaving techniques (subject to availability). As we cycle through the rice paddies and another village, you’ll have a chance to immerse yourself in the stunning landscape.

After returning to the local home, our car will transport us back to Puluong Retreat for a delicious lunch before heading back to Hanoi. You’ll arrive in the early afternoon and have the rest of the day to yourself. Spend the night in Hanoi before continuing your journey.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: Hanoi/Halong Bay/Lan Ha Bay/ and an overnight cruise!

A must visit honeymoon and holiday destination in Vietnam! From 8:30am to 9:00am, a cruise shuttle service will pick you up for your journey to Halong City. At 11:30, you will be greeted by our experienced Sealife staff at the Sealife Legend lounge located at Tuan Chau International Marina. Then, from 12:00pm to 12:30pm, you will be taken by speedboat to board the Sealife Legend cruise. As you board, you will be offered a welcome drink and refreshing towels. Before checking in, the cruise manager will provide a brief introduction to the cruise and go over safety regulations.

From 13:00 to 14:00, guests are invited to dine at the Fishnet Restaurant area, located on the Sealife Legend cruise. As you savour your meal, you can take in the breath-taking sight of the towering limestone mountains rising from the glistening blue waters of Lan Ha Bay. The cruise will continue its journey through the bay during this time.

Between 15:30 and 16:45, the cruise will make its first stop at Dark and Bright Cave, which marks the border between Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. To explore this cave, guests will be taken on a bamboo boat rowed by local fishermen. As you glide through the floating houses, you can witness them feeding various marine creatures such as fish, clams, and oysters.

Afterward, from 16:45 to 17:30, guests can return to the cruise and take a refreshing swim in the cool, emerald waters around the Bat Cave area. This is also a great opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of Lan Ha Bay. For those feeling adventurous, kayaking is available (subject to weather conditions) to explore the area at your own pace.

Between 17:30 and 19:00, guests can board the cruise once again to relax and unwind. Indulge in a soothing massage or take a dip in the Jacuzzi while enjoying a refreshing cocktail and watching the sunset over Halong Bay. This is the perfect time to sit back and take in the stunning views that surround you.

At 6:30 PM, after a soothing break, we invite you to join our engaging cooking class led by our Master Chef. At 7:15 PM, revel in a delectable set menu for dinner at our restaurant while taking in the enchanting sight of the heritage site lit up at night. By 9:00 PM, let loose and unwind at the Navy Club with music and drinks, or sing your heart out with our high-quality karaoke equipment. Relax on the sundeck and admire the twinkling lights of Lan Ha Bay, or try your hand at catching fresh squid. Alternatively, take a peaceful moment to watch the sunset over Halong Bay from your cabin balcony. At 10:30 PM, retreat to your private cabin for some rest, preparing for an exciting day ahead.

Embark on a journey to discover the stunning Lan Ha Bay, a tranquil and unspoiled gem neighbouring the famous Halong Bay. The renowned luxury ship, Sealife Legend, beckons travellers to uncover the secrets and untold stories of this majestic bay, brimming with enchanting beauty waiting to be uncovered by adventurous souls. Enjoy a 2-day 1-night cruise program, meticulously crafted to provide a rejuvenating escape from the chaos of everyday life. Indulge in a plethora of exquisite on and off-board activities and treat your taste buds to our delectable menu prepared by our experienced 5-star chefs. Join us on this voyage to immerse yourself in the natural splendour and vibrant life of the bay, and leave all your worries behind.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Align with the sunrise through a tranquil Tai-chi class.

At 6:00 AM, start your day with an invigorating Tai-chi class on the deck as you watch the sunrise. This is a serene and unforgettable experience on your Vietnam travel itinerary. From 6:30 AM to 7:00 AM, a light breakfast of tea, coffee, traditional Pho, and cakes is available at the restaurant. At 7:00 AM, join a tour of Cat Ba World Biosphere, reachable from Gia Luan to Trung Trang, a 30-minute journey. Trung Trang is home to one of the most impressive caves on Cat Ba island in Vietnam, with thousands of unique stalactites and a diverse cave ecosystem.

After the tour, at 8:30 AM, return to the Sealife Legend Cruise to recheck your belongings before checking out at 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM. Take this time to make final payments for any additional services. From 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM, enjoy a buffet brunch at the restaurant while the cruise heads back to the dock. At 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM, your trip ends as you disembark the cruise and take a speedboat back to the waiting house in Tuan Chau. Please note that the program may be adjusted to accommodate weather and other operational conditions without prior notice.

Then, at 11:30 AM, say farewell to the cruise at Tuan Chau Marina and take a drive back to Hanoi, where you will be dropped off at Noi Bai airport to catch an afternoon flight to Danang (scheduled between 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM). On arrival at Danang airport, you will be greeted and driven to your chosen resort, where you can spend the night and enjoy your free time.

✓ Brunch

Day 7: Discover Hoi An – a natural setting for romance

Your guide will meet you in the morning and take you on a 45-minute drive to Hoi An. From there, you will board a Vespa and begin your journey through the ancient town. Hoi An is a serene holiday destination in Vietnam and a beautiful backdrop for your honeymoon. Crossing the bridge to Cam Kim island, you will ride along the riverside and into the picturesque countryside. Your first stops will include an Ancestral House and a traditional boat builder’s yard, before continuing on to explore the charming villages on the island.

Along the way, you will experience the stunning scenery of rice paddies and farmland as you weave through zigzagging paths. Local families will teach you the art of mat weaving, farming, and how to make and enjoy the perfect banh dap (rice cracker). After snacking on the rice crackers, you will visit a small village and stop at a local café to fuel up on drip-coffee and learn the art of coffee roasting.

Then, get ready for an exhilarating 300-meter bamboo bridge river crossing to the sea-board side of the island, surrounded by lush casuarina pine and cashew nut trees. Your adventure continues as you ride over the new bridge, offering breath-taking views of Hoi An. Finally, you will pass by the water coconut palm-fringed Cam Thanh and end up at a local restaurant for a delicious lunch in a picturesque location (seasonal).

At 1:00 PM, you will be transported to a designated meeting point in the charming Hoi An ancient town. You will have a couple of hours to leisurely explore the town’s historic streets. At 3:00 PM, you will be picked up and driven back to Danang resort, where you can unwind on the beautiful beach or engage in any activities that interest you. The stops along the way will provide opportunities for your guide to share insights into local culture, lifestyles, and traditions, as well as to admire the picturesque rural scenery en route to Hoi An.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Ba Na hills – discover a fairyland high in the mountains

Your morning will begin with a 30-minute drive to Bana Hill, where our guide will accompany you. This mountain resort offers a unique blend of whimsical fun and timeless beauty, making it the perfect retreat for you and your loved one to escape the sweltering heat.

You’ll ascend Ba Na Hills via a scenic cable car ride and have the opportunity to ride the Funicular train, explore the charming Le Jardin D’Amour, see the newly constructed Golden Bridge, and visit the impressive Giant Buddha Statue. Your ticket also grants you access to the games at Fantasy Park, a great option for children. After your Bana Hill adventure, your guide will take you back to the resort for some rest and refreshment. You’ll have free time in Danang until your guide accompanies you to the airport for your return flight, marking the end of the tour.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Price

£1,702

– Price per person based on two-people group size.

– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room. sharing.

– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrive at Noi Bai airport and transfer to Bendecir Hanoi, Junior Suite City View.

Day 2: Embark on a city tour, visiting Ngoc Son Temple, sampling local coffee, exploring the Old Quarter, and indulging in Vietnamese cuisine.

Day 3: Travel to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, enjoy lunch at Pu Luong Retreat, visit Cham River, and embark on a rafting adventure.

Day 4: Take a leisurely hike through rice terraces, visit local villages, and return to Hanoi in the afternoon.

Day 5: Board the Sealife Legend cruise, explore Dark and Bright Cave, swim in Bat Cave area, enjoy activities on board, and overnight on the cruise.

Day 6: Participate in a Tai-chi class at sunrise, enjoy brunch on the cruise, and return to Hanoi for an afternoon flight to Danang.

Day 7: Embark on a Vespa tour to Cam Kim island, visit local villages, cross bamboo bridges, explore Hoi An ancient town, and return to Danang.

Day 8: Visit Ba Na Hills via cable car, explore attractions like Le Jardin D’Amour and Golden Bridge, and return to the resort for relaxation before departure.

FAQs

FAQs

1. What is the accommodation like during the tour?
   • Accommodation varies depending on the location. In Hanoi, you’ll stay at Bendecir Hanoi, Junior Suite City View. Other accommodations include Pu Luong Retreat, Sealife Legend cruise, and resorts in Danang.
2. Are meals included in the tour?
   • Yes, most meals are included. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided on specific days, as mentioned in the itinerary.
3. What activities are included in Pu Luong Nature Reserve?
   • Activities in Pu Luong Nature Reserve include a suspension bridge walk, a rafting excursion, and scenic hiking through rice terraces and local villages.
4. What can I expect during the Halong Bay cruise?
   • The Halong Bay cruise includes exploring Dark and Bright Cave, swimming in Bat Cave area, participating in onboard activities, and enjoying a set menu dinner with stunning views.
5. How is transportation arranged between destinations?
   • Transportation is provided by private driver and guide, including transfers from airports to hotels and between destinations throughout the tour.
6. Can I join all activities if I have mobility issues?
   • Some activities may require moderate physical activity, but alternatives can be arranged for individuals with mobility issues. Please inform us in advance, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.
7. What should I pack for the tour?
   • Pack comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and any personal items you may need.